To Serve well

Serving with Excellence for a Life of Excellence

Faith

Simple Thoughts Sunday – Memorial Day

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Memorial Day is about honor.

As we kick off this week, focused on honoring those that have served our country and lost their lives in that service, I pray that we will all consider the impact this sacrifice has had on our lives. In America, we experience freedom of every possible type. This has come at a price. It will personally be a great joy to lift up to God my many thanks for this gift. My gift in return will be to not only live a life of excellence, but to inspire others to do the same.

Let’s make this week all about HONOR. One of my favorite discussion topics, because we need to keep it front and center.

Have an amazing long weekend to those who will experience that – I pray that you will be refreshed and in spirit of taking time to honor those God has placed in our paths.

(Photo credit: We Heart it)

Point out someone’s BRILLIANCE

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GRADUATION IS by far one of my favorite times of the year, and I love this pic coupled with one of my favorite bible verses.  (One that I have to remind myself of often, and also a “mom” favorite!)

Once again this year, we have several friends and family members graduating, from high school and college. What a great time of celebration and hope for a bright future.

I wanted to share a story that meant the world to me last year at my boys’ graduation. I have some neighbors,-turned-friends who have been long time supporters of me and the boys. I am especially close to Susie. Her husband Sid is one of those super cool guys my boys have always loved to be around, and more importantly a spiritual leader type of guy that has a way of encouraging even when we don’t know we need it. In 12 years, he has been a great encourager to me two key times and graduation was one. (I share that it was two times because I feel like it is important to note that it doesn’t have to be daily, or weekly, but any encouragement is important). In short, he pulled me aside and spent a good 10 minutes just “talking into” me God’s words of wisdom and celebration and assurance of a job well done… I was stopped in my tracks at their graduation party and had to take a moment to just soak in those words. It was powerful.

Why does this matter? Your words are powerful. You have the power to lift someone up and TAKE THEM TO A NEW LEVEL.

TAKE THE TIME. We have all had those moments when we felt something inside of us urging us to stop and take a few minutes to POINT OUT SOMEONES BRILLIANCE, or to truly embrace their moment of success. TAKE THE CLUE and pull them aside and speak God’s love over them. It will impact and inspire both them and you!

(Photo credit: We Heart It)

Happy Mother’s Day!

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Today is about honor.
At some point in our lives we have all had one biological mother and perhaps many mothers that have played a significant role in our lives. Since this goes out later in the day on Sundays, you’ve likely already honored those ladies, but if not, stop now, and call, text, email or get in the car and go hug them if that’s possible.

If you are a mother, you know both the pure love and the work that the role requires, but it’s the truest joy of all. If you are one of those moms that has stepped in for other children, God will bless you richly. Keep doing it and know that you are changing lives!

Today I want to honor my mom who has become a true friend over the past few years. As many of you know, life isn’t always easy and my mom had to overcome some significant obstacles. The GREAT NEWS is that through time, God has stepped in and showed up. Despite all things, a mother’s love is the deepest of all loves and through God all things are possible. So, if you happen to be one of those who has dealt with the not so “Leave it to Beaver” version of family life, HAVE FAITH. God can and does redeem and my story is a testament to that! LOVE THAT SO MUCH!

So, today, Mom, I am grateful. Thank you for loving us and my boys!

My prayer is that we will take this IDEA OF HONOR into the WEEK. Each day this week, make it a point to honor someone who impacts your days and deserves a moment of gratitude bestowed upon them!

I’m making my list!

(Photo credits: Pinterest)

Books you might just love

blog_793981_2896884_1462383689At the end of last year, I posted a list of my top books for 2015. I had so many people that reached out to me that they really liked this, so I decided I’d post my list throughout the year as well, since they are top of mind!

My plan is to do a post like this three times a year: May, September and January for the prior 4 months. During the January post I’ll list my all time favorites for the year, too!

As you may know by now, I’m a huge reader! I’m an advocate for reading and constantly learning. I will have to say that I’m not much of a fiction reader however, but perhaps someday I will be. So here it goes… My favs from January 1 – April 30:

  1. Seven Women & the Secret of their Greatness, by Eric MetaxasWhat I loved: Corrie Ten Boom, Rosa Parks, Hannah More, Joan of Arc… Some I knew and some I didn’t, but learning about women who have literally changed our world is downright inspiring.
  2. Throught the Eyes of a Lion, by Levi LuskoWhat I loved: Levi and his family lost a little girl unexpectedly. With great sadness, Levi is able to shine a light on God’s grace and share the painful details but also inspire hope.
  3. Seven Men, by Eric MetaxasWhat I loved: Again, Eric crafts an amazing read which outlines how a handful of men exemplify true excellence. He profiles George Washington, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Jackie Robinson and others. SO GOOD!
  4. Wake Up Happy, by Michalael StrahanWhat I loved: Practical information and fun stories that share about his life. His “Strahan Rules” include “Don’t pre-judge” and that help will come from the most unexpected places. It has a ton of advice and it’s just fun.
  5. The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up, by Marie KondoWhat I loved: It took me forever to actually buy this book that has been on bestseller lists since it came out. It’s a bit weird, but the idea of simplifying and only have items in your home and life that bring you joy is compelling.
  6. Originals, by Adam GrantWhat I loved: Everything! This is my favorite. It’s both a business read and one that will definitely make you a better person in every segment of your life. The insights and breaking down of myths on how we think and act are very cool.
  7. Being Mortal, by Atul GawandeWhat I loved: Dr. Gawande has written many great books, but this one tackles the tough issues of ethics and practical realities in the process of the end of our lives. Educational and thought-provoking.
  8. A Fellowship of Differents, by Scot McKnightWhat I loved: This book is about the pursuit of UNITY. The book talks about God’s desire for our church and communities to be diverse in order to achieve our true calling.
  9. The Lemon Tree, by Sandy TolanWhat I loved: I read this book at the recommendation of Pastor Adam Hamilton in preparation for my Holy Land trip in February. This book is a terrific real life story that illustrates the Palestine/Israeli conflict.
  10. H3 Leadership, by Brad LomenickWhat I loved: Brad is a a terrific author. The three “Hs” are Be Humble, Stay Hungry and Always Hustle. He categorizes 20 leaderships under these three areas. It’s easy to read and practical. I passed this one on to my boys who could embrace this as they grow in their college years and develop leadership skills that will help them in their careers and as spiritual leaders in their homes.

I hope you’ll pick out one or two that appeal to you and jump in!

(Photo credit: We Heart It) 

Time to stir the nest!

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I just had to write this blog because I have been hit over the head, so to speak, with this concept about three times in less than two weeks. So I figured the universe is trying to tell me something. Ever have that happen? First it was sermon illustration, then a podcast, then on the radio…

So, check out the D.C. Eagle Cam and you will be amazed. You may have to check in a few times but it’s worth it. This is a live camera feed on the “First Lady” and “Mr. President’s” baby eaglets, which just were named this week: Freedom and Liberty. I love stories like this and today’s technology which enables us to take part in the experience.

Today, the idea of “Stirring the Nest” can be best illustrated by how the “First Lady” will eventually have to get those young babes out of the nest and ready to fly on their own. After all, they can’t live their forever! blog_793974_2896877_1462244166

By the way, we can’t live where we are, in the comfort of our habits, and grow at the same time. We have to be stirred to push through to the next level that God has planned for us. So, just like the mama Eagle, the feathers sometimes are taken away and we find outselves sitting atop a downright”thorny” situation, and we have to look over the edge of the nest (so to speak) and develop our faith, then jump out to what’s next. We also should know that just like the mama will soar down and ensure the babies won’t fall to their deaths, that God has put people in our lives that help ensure we land safely.

I have been thinking about this idea of what area in my life needs stirred.  Honestly I think it’s a few.  What are those areas that are getting a bit “thorny” for you? Health? Friends that aren’t really making you a better person? Laziness? Your career? Just realize that whatever it is, you will not only fly, but SOAR like an Eagle if it’s time to launch!

(Photo credit: Pinterest via stop.com)

Hello, May!

blog_793625_2896171_1462115574It’s May! Woohoo!

A year ago this month I was in deep preparing for the boys high school graduation. (To my friends going thru this right now… I’m praying and cheering for you! If you need help, just holler!) It seems like all of the emotion and the excitement combined make times like these feel both overwhelming and invigorating!

My advice… Focus on the JOY and let others help you so you can enjoy it! It’s truly a special occasion and one that deserves your utmost attention. (I’d say preschool graduation deserves the same level of JOY!)

Today, a year past that, not as much drama, but a brief moment in time to step back and truly be JOYFUL for the month that lies ahead!  Here’s why:

  • May not only truly does bring “flowers,” but times for great celebration.
  • May brings us graduation and the launch of the wedding season… A season of new beginnings and DELIGHT!
  • May ALWAYS has Mother’s Day… What a great day to love on those mother’s in your life!  I know I not only was blessed with my mom, but many others that have played a key role in my life… Love that God puts the right people in your life and just the right time!
  • May HONORS those fallen soldiers that died while serving in our country’s armed forces. How amazing our country is and I can’t wait to approach this subject later this month. All I can say is that lump in my throat never goes away when I think of these men and women. #BlessedbeyondtoliveintheUSA

(Photo credit: We Heart It)

3 ways to give strength

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  • Love
  • Good Vibes
  • Strength

How can we give these in the best possible way? Question of the day for me is on strength! That’s been a bit of the theme this week… Here are some thoughts:

We can give others strength by:

  1. BELIEVING IN THEM… Truly believing in them. As a leader I have always loved to have the underdog on my team. Most underdogs aren’t underdogs at all. They are SUPERHEROS who needed someone to believe in them. As a friend or a leader or whatever our role, it is our duty to find the best in people and bring that out!
  2. CELEBRATING THEM… Yep, that’s right. Who in your world do you need to celebrate today? Who may not have had an encouraging word given to them directly in weeks? God created all people to be beautiful and even those that have made some bad choices and maybe seem to be a lost cause, quite honestly are not. It may take some thoughtful “digging” to identify but take the time. It’s worth it.
  3. SUPPORTING THEM… Celebrating them is really huge! I think we need to go a step further and offer our support. Ask someone today, how can I serve you the best? Where do you need someone to step in and help? In a mentoring relationship this is huge and we all should both me a mentor and have mentors. Maybe they need a simple introduction to someone to get that first job, or someone who can be honest with them and move them past hurdles… Every last one of us need support!

(Photo credit: I Heart It)

Get out there and bring others with you!

blog_792239_2894125_1461621496Jeep ran a campaign I believe in 2007 that had the tag line “Have fun out there.” Nature Valley ran one “Get out there” a few years earlier. Honestly, I got them confused and thought “Get out there” was Jeep, which I think is absolutely BRILLIANT!

Regardless of who gets credit for the idea, my vision is that WE NEED TO GET OUT “THERE” to realize the fullness of life.

Sunday I talked a bit about being as strong as “Caleb” at 85 years old. In order to live a strong life we have to get out and explore the world. I had the opportunity to take my first bike ride of the season yesterday and honestly, we have some pretty cool places to explore right in our own neighborhoods. We need to model this for our families, in the workplace and wherever God has placed us. No matter your age or situation, get OUT!

Here’s another thought… Do you know someone that perhaps can’t necessarily get out there? If so, do everything in your power this week to get them out if at all possible. Even if it means pushing them around the block in a wheelchair or visiting a park, the zoo, or anything really. Help get others out who may not feel they have that ability. If you don’t know anyone in that situation, just give me a call or a message, I’ll hook you up!

Let’s all be AMBASSADORS in this category this week both for ourselves and for others. I promise your life will be richer for the effort.

(Photo credit: We Heart It)

Plan on finishing!

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I so love this. Caleb was 85 years old when he made this statement. Today, to meet an 85 year old who has that type of robust strength is rare. Even in the biblical time period according to references this was true. What was the difference?

Surely, we all have our ancestors to thank for some of our genetic make up. In this case however, there are two key things that I feel need pointed out…

  1. Boldness: “I am just as vigorous.” – He made a choice not to back down in anyway.
  2. Faith: “Perhaps the Lord will be with me…” (Verse 12) – He decided to claim the promises and take the land.

I want to be like Caleb and FINISH STRONG INSIDE AND OUT. We all need to do this in order to live the life God intended for us all!  Where do you need to be bold this week? We have all been given the promises, we just need to decide to GO AFTER THEM STRONG.

Now… GET OUTSIDE and build the strength necessary to do just that!

(Photo credit: We Heart It)

Adventure calls

blog_786682_2885967_1460298022Pure Beauty. I daydream, if you want to call it that, of taking a long road-trip adventure (In my mind that is what this gal is doing!) where you just go out and try to hear what God says about so many things.

What I have figured out along the way, and why this quote stood out to me, is that God seems to mold us during the “everyday adventures” if we are willing to listen and if necessary look back and own it.

I have a bold prayer today that both myself and all of my friends and family will be open to God’s plan for us through the big and small adventures that make up the days of our lives! Love you all! Listen deeply!

(Photo credit: We Heart It)