Still here!

Yikes!  Too much time has passed without updating our blog.   We had a wonderful time of encouragement and fellowship (read: chatting and lots of food) at our Tea and Testimony.  It encouraged me to take some time to think about my own testimony, both my salvation and all the ways God has intervened as I have moved from awkward teen to carefree young adult to blissful newlywed and finally parent.  Mom.  Motherhood has changed me like nothing else, and I would hazard a guess that most of us MOPS would agree.  Becoming a mother has taken me from the mountaintop to the valley and just on the climb.   Being a mom is a daily lesson in sacrifice and humility.  Most of all, love.  God's love for me through the help and encouragement of my husband.  His love for me in the unparalleled, unique beauty of my children's faces.  His strength and forgiveness any moment I stop to remember I cannot be what He has made me-- wife and mother-- without Him.  I can play at it, but it is just a charade.  Motherhood is remaking me, even sanctifying me, making me more like Jesus, every day I choose to obey.  I love Him.  Because he first loved me.
Let's share our stories, ladies!

A Goal for 2011

I usually don't create true resolutions for New Year's.  I usually want to read the Bible through in a year and live more healthily, but my willpower fades as the novelty of a new year wears off.  This year, however, I am setting a definite goal that I already have accountability to keep.  I follow the Living Proof Ministries (Beth Moore's) blog.  If you have done any studies by Beth Moore, you know that she is a big proponent of Scripture memory and that's my goal for this year.  On the 1st and 15th of every month the "Siesta Scripture Memory Team" will log on to this blog and post their name, city, verse to memorize and its translation.  I have begun to memorize a handful of Scriptures after taking her "Breaking Free" study and I quote my verses several times a day.  My sister has agreed to be my Siesta-in-memory, so we will have this to share and encourage each other to complete.  There is even a Siesta celebration in Houston, TX in 2012 for those who complete the challenge.  I'd love to go with my sister!

Anyone care to join me in memorizing?  Let's go for it!

His Gentle Leading

Isaiah 40:11

He tends his flock like a shepherd; He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.

My pastor shared from this passage in Isaiah concerning hope.  This little phrase speaks to me.  Our God knows the voice of his sheep, each individual one.   I am so glad he has gentleness on mothers.  Our God is ours-- personal!

Would you share any verses that help you hold on to hope?  Please leave a comment.