Hmmmmm How do I Capture this Prey? Deer One, Mitzi Zero

 

I am not sure which one of these is the most confident and secure in who they are and where they fit in. This young buck was one of three who grazed in our lawn for a few hours a couple days ago. Mitzi, our three year old kitty, spent most of that time unsuccessfully coming up with a strategy to bag one of these oversized for her prey. Now the gophers in our yard have a healthy respect for Mitzi’s skills as a hunter but this deer and his friends were not in the least concerned with her presence. Even the kids at the park swinging and playing soccer did not phase our visiting lawnmowers. 

This morning in church, Pastor Shawn spoke of being bold in sharing Christ with others anytime, anywhere and in all circumstances. It isn’t necessary to thumb a Bible but to live with kindness toward others that is key. Allowing others to notice that there is just something different in the way we go about life is what speaks of God’s love for us as we love others. 

I struggled when my book came out to say I was an author or to sign a book for someone. It seemed arrogant somehow to claim I wrote a book or that anyone would want me to sign the book when I gave it to them. God has worked on my heart and I now boldly say that I wrote a book one day at a time and when I sign a book it is encouraging others and about them not about me. So Ron and I were in the airport and a stewardess suggested I get my chai latte dirty. After she explained that it would then come with a shot of espresso, I thanked her. I noticed that she was wearing a cross so we began to share our faith and I had Ron give me my book out of my bag. She exuded joy and even told me to look her up on YouTube. She is the singing flight attendant. When I told her that my book was about losing Ryan to suicide, she wept. Sharing that she has gone through years of depression and hopelessness. Even with her struggles she gets on the plane and brings Jesus to others with her love and joy. Now that is bold faith. I am beyond glad that we connected over a latte. Last week, the waiter at a pizza place just had something special. I told him at the end of our meal that he made his customers feel valued not just for the tips but he seemed to truly care. Later, I ran down to the car to bring him a book. He shared that his life like so many have been touched by suicide. Making connections with people that cross our path in ordinary situations is being bold in our faith and sharing Jesus is a gift. It takes practice, staying in His word, and allowing our lives to shine with His light. 

Pastor Shawn said light always wins. That gives me great hope for our world. It is true that once you add light darkness disappears. That is an image I am going to cling to as I go about my days. Trying to live the best life I can live in Him.

In Him,

Joyful

8-28-22