King David Dancing

O, how I love this little girl!



David and I were teaching Children's Church this past Sunday for the 3rd and 4th graders. Little Joy had to join us due to a terrible, faucet-nose. She was terribly disappointed - Children's Church for her age is one of her favorite places to be. I had all the kids sitting around me on the floor, deep in discussion, when Ms. Kristen walked in to lead us in music worship. As the boys and girls stood up and began dividing themselves into boys and girls (isn't it great how they can't stand to sit by each other at this age?!), little Joy jumped up in great anticipation. She found a place right in front, in the middle of the boys and girls, and danced and sang with all her heart.



I observed the 3rd and 4th graders responses. Some looked on with shock, while others giggled quietly. Her brother glanced at her and smiled in approval. She knew all the words and actions for every song. She even slipped in a few of the accurate ASL signs. She truly lit up the room with joy as she worshipped God in her own sincere, unreserved way.



Tears filled my eyes, and I noticed David was visibly moved as well. She reminded me of King David dancing and singing as the Ark of the Covenant was returned to its rightful home (2 Samuel 6:14). What a true gift of praise she presented to Our Heavenly Father! She taught me a valuable lesson of unashamed worship.



Wouldn't you know, our lesson for the morning was about worshipping God with our whole hearts. Isn't God so great? He didn't even need to use my examples. He was happy to provide His own.

Speaking Donkey

For the past six weeks I have been brainstorming ways to earn a little extra money.

The truth is, we are at a place where we should stop therapies for Joy for a while. Financially, the money just isn't here, and we cannot continue to increase our debt. Of course, when these times hit, everything else starts to fall apart as well. Our couch died last week. We also seem to have a few house-related issues that need attention now.

So, I decided to put my boots on and pull up the straps! Nevermind I have no free time, or really time to think. After all, I have a college degree, some talent, and the marathoners determination to do just about anything necessary.

I decided to make handbags. Fun! I'd get the opportunity to be creative while providing a little extra cash. I happily went off to the craft store, spent my Christmas loot on fabric, and blew the dust off my sewing machine. I printed off at least six free patterns and began cutting and ironing fabric in the late night hours. I started with a quilted bag pattern because I actually understood most of the directions. I stitched and quilted away.

My husband inquired about my new found hobby. "I'm so glad to see you using your artistic side again," he said. I rolled my eyes. What does he think I do all day with the kids? He finally asked me why I had so many patterns. I revealed my great plan, to which he commented, "the bags will make great gifts for your nieces. I think you should just have fun and make the bags to give away." Really! He gently reminded me that he is the financial provider, and I am already doing my job well. God is the Ultimate Provider and He will provide for all our needs, in His time.

I know my head understands this, I just want my heart to join the race. I've struggled with much bitterness lately as I've watched my precious child's needs increase, while I am physically and emotionally wearing down. I need the help of her therapists. I need the camaraderie. I just can't understand why we cannot get any assistance. The truth is I am just plain mad and jealous because I see others who receive much more than she needs. I want to be able to provide for all her needs. I want some sense of control again.

This morning, Joy and I read the Bible story, Balaam's Donkey Speaks (Numbers 22:1-40). In this story, Balaam, a prophet, is asked to curse Israel by King Balak in exchange for money. He willingly defies God, who tells him not to curse Israel, and sets out to curse Israel in pursuit of the financial gain. He is stopped finally by his faithful donkey who literally speaks to him after trying to get off the road several times. The donkey could see the angel on the road sent by God to kill Balaam for this evil deed. God had to make Balaam's donkey talk to him before his eyes were opened to see the angel and his future doom.

My conscience whispered, "guilty," and then Jesus whispered, "forgiven". What a merciful and gracious Savior we serve! His plans are perfect, His way is the only way. Sometimes, I guess, I really need the donkey to literally speak. How sad this must make my Heavenly Father when I keep sneaking back to the altar and picking back up what I already laid down.

Honestly, I haven't completed a bag yet! I have this problem with perfectionism, and I need a few tutorials with my sewing machine. I also need a few uninterrupted hours to actually work. This is a dream, and not the place in life I live presently - by His design.

Thank you dear Lord for the bag adventure. It feels good to let the creative juices flow again (even barefoot, without the security of my boots and their straps).

Just for you, Beth!

This morning, I explained to Joy that speech therapy, scheduled in the afternoon, is cancelled. Due to terrible stomach issues with all three of the girls this weekend, I felt it considerate to postpone all therapies for the beginning of the week. I told Joy we would go to Ms. Beth's house on Wednesday afternoon. I thought this would mean absolutely nothing to Joy, as time doesn't seem to exist to little ones.

But, after hearing about a million times "I go to Ms. Beth's house", we had a huge breakthrough at calendar time today. Joy ran to the calendar, pointed to Wednesday, and said, "I go to Ms. Beth's house - Wednesday." Break through! Every calendar time this year has not been in vain! Joy understands the days of the week!

We look forward to seeing you on Wednesday, Ms. Beth. I will hear about it at least once every awake hour until we arrive at your house. :)