Saturday, April 30, 2011

Not A Word

Hi Friends~

Today I have a Devotion to share from the book Quiet Moments in the Presence of God, published by Bethany House.  So many of us have been rushed in one way or another with Easter just behind us...now is the time to re-commit if necessary to silence everyday.  Silence so you can hear Him.  Let's take a look at what they wrote:

"Everyone kept quiet and listened as Barnabas and Paul told how God have given them the power to work a lot of miracles and wonders for the Gentiles."
Acts 15:12

      "Silence invites God into your heart and ignites you with a passion for His closeness.  It takes down the bars that the world's busyness and noise put on your soul and opens the door where God stands waiting to enter.  Silence is a direct path to God's presence.  Many of the wonderful gifts that come from God are given in silence.

     When Elijah left a cave and went to a mountain to hear from God, he listened intently for the divine voice in blustery wind, trembling earthquake, and blistering fire.  He heard from God, but not in any of that.  God chose to speak with Elijah in absolute silence.

     Silence is a condition in which God makes Himself known to you."


I hope you all have a bit of quiet time in your busy weekends.  God Bless!

He IS Able,
Traci S.

Wednesday, April 27, 2011

On Wings Like Eagles...

Hi Friends~

Have you ever had the opportunity of seeing an eagle soar?  Have you seen one up close where it just gently stops flying, and lands on a branch?  We were fortunate to have two eagles land on a pole in front of our yard...twice.  They are beautiful and majestic...and huge!  They seem to be able to catch wind under their wings and be lifted up forever.  When Dave and I were in Alaska, we had the opportunity to see about 50 eagles soaring up against a background of deep green--the forest...and one flew about 8 feet over Dave's head...I thought it would grab his baseball cap!  Beautiful animals They are a beautiful symbol. And, they are mentioned in the Bible.  Here is one Scripture:

"He gives strength to the weary
and increases the power of the weak.
Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;
but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like
eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint."
Isaiah 40:29-31

Now, this Scripture is not about eagles...I told you about the eagles just to help you remember the Scripture...see if it helps!  But know that His power and strength never diminish.  He is never to tired or too busy to listen.  He loves you!  I am paraphrasing what my  Life Application Bible, by Tyndale, says about this Verse below:

When you feel all of life crushing you and you cannot go another step, remember that you can call upon God to renew your strength. And, that "Hoping in the Lord" means trusting in God.  It is expecting that His promise of strength to help us to rise above life's distractions...and there are so many distractions...will happen!  Our trusting in Him prepares us for when He speaks to us.  Then we need to be patient when He wants us to wait...this can be a challenge area for me!  Then, He will fulfill His promises. Count on it! So, when you see a large bird just soaring...think of these words.  It is beautiful.

And, here is a special link:  On Wings Like Eagles   It was sent to me by a dear friend of mine.  I hope you will enjoy watching this family of eagles grow and learn to soar!  It has been amazing how quickly the babies have grown. I don't know where they are located. If you find out, will you please let me know? And, whenever the adult lands it is quite amazing looking to me. It flies down...goes up a bit to pull in his wings, I guess, and then lands softly.  These nests are rather large...we have them in the area.  But, they are not THAT big...to use as a run-way!   I apologize for the advertisements on the screen...you can click on the "x" on the bottom ones, and they will go away for a while. Share this link...or this blog post with friends and family!  Please, let this Live broadcast remind you of His magnificent creations and His Word...just full of promises!

There is another Scripture which speaks about helping restore the weary and burdened.  It is very well known in my opinion...and I love how easy it is to "hear" Jesus say the words to me as I read it.  It's as if He is saying, "Traci!  Traci!  Here's the answer...you don't have to be overwhelmed and scared, and exhausted...Come to Me."  Come to Me...that's the basis of the entire Bible isn't it?  For all of Christianity? He wants us to be near to Him, to trust Him, and to follow the commandments and instructions He left for us.  If makes it so simple, doesn't it?  "Come to Me!"  I think that needs to go on a card or two.  Maybe this week.

Here is this wonderful, and to me very personal-feeling Scripture.  They all are...but like I said, I feel like we could be having tea, and He would just say,
"Come to Me!"  And, all is well.  We Christians still have troubles, but underneath it all...all is well.

Matthew 11:28-30 reads:
“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

Joan made a fabulous card with Isaiah 40:29-31 on it with a wonderful eagle beside it on the card front.  It is a card that would be great for men or women.  The inside is blank, so you will have room to share your love about Jesus with someone in it!  I will try to solve again why my camera won't download (upload?) to my computer. It works from Dave's, so if he gets home early tonight, I will ask him to send it to me, and I will post it as the "Card of the Week."  It is a treasure for sure!  Thank you for making it, Joan...and for your generous heart for donating so many cards to the He IS Able blog!  You are amazing!

The Winner of this week's "Card of the Week" is...
peggy aplSeeds!!!  Congratulations, Peggy!
Here is the comment that she shared, that made her eligible to win our "Card of the Week" drawing:
"hello, Traci, i enjoyed my visit to the blog, especially the Easter activity ideas.  Have a blessed Easter!   April 20, 2011"

Dearest Peggy, I believe that you live outside the continental United States.  I can not afford to send cards over seas...out of the country.  Sweetie, I would if I could! There is good news, however! We are working on a special reward for people who visit the blog, and enter the "Card of the Week" drawing...like YOU!  Please, be patient...You will be the very first person to receive the special surprise we have up our sleeve!  I will let you know when it will send. 

Anyone who leaves a comment before Tuesday Evening at 8-Eastern time will be put in a random drawing to receive Joan's card!  Toni's beautiful card with the cross, will go back in the He IS Able blog's "Card of the Week" stash!

You see, we value every single one of you who stop and spend some of your precious moments here with us.  And, we pray for you.  Don't worry, we pray for your family and friends who do not yet know Jesus as Lord, also.  We want to ask everyone to please join- in these particular prayer requests.  Please keep the people that visit from countries where it is illegal and punishable to be a Christian. If you do not know Jesus as your Lord and Savior, please let me know via email...or let us know in the comment section.  We will pray with you if you email a way to contact you.  Please keep in mind, that there is not a thing in your life that is insignificant to Him.  If you have a prayer need...please post it.  We will lift you up!  I appreciate your prayers, as I am sure Joan and Michele and Wendy do also.  Thank you for being here!

He IS Able!
Traci S.

Monday, April 25, 2011

This Weekend's Emotional Roller-Coaster Ride!

Hi Friends~

Did you all rejoice with His victory on Easter?  Did you weep with the thought of all that He went through for each of us when He obediently died on the cross on Good Friday?  Has it been a roller-coaster of emotions for you as it was for me?  I have no idea what "normal" is for these three days.  What I'd like to do is share how the days went for me.  And, I would like to invite you to share about your celebrations or emotions, or thoughts or your love and appreciation for Him in the comment section...or here in the post. (By emailing me the information.)  We are a community...a family...let's share with one another.

By the way...did I tell you I have never wanted to go on a roller-coaster?

I believe I told you that I have been preparing for Easter by reading each of the Gospels from about when Jesus was arrested through Good Friday...then from Good Friday until Easter, I read the Gospels from just before the Crucifixion through the Ascension.

"They spit on Him, and took the staff and struck Him on the head
 again and again.  Matthew 27:30 

Well, when Good Friday came, it hit me like it never has before.  I was feeling guilty and terrible sadness for all that Jesus went through for me. The mocking, the name calling, the spit in His face.  The stripes on His back.  One year, my Pastor explained a crucifixion in such detail--you would never forget it. He told it from the medical point of view.  What happens when your skin is tearing, when your muscles are ripping to shreds, when your organs start shutting down. He told every part of the horrific pain a person goes through when crucified.  Well, this led to my feeling guilty that I, (Thinking of myself only--the self-centered person I can be), was responsible for Him going through so much pain.  He who loves me more than imaginable.  He that doesn't go away when I do something wrong.  He who wants only the best for me...and the way He could give me the biggest gift...the gift of salvation, the gift of not having sin stick to me like cement, the gift of a close relationship with Him...with God...was to go through this immense pain...go to Hell...and die!  I felt like just lying on the ground in a ball.  This feeling pretty much stuck with me through the day.

I don't think this is a necessarily regular reaction. It could be that most people don't have as much free time to think on it.  Being disabled, needing to recline to help with my pain, being alone all day--most days...could have all added to the feeling.  And, with my back, leg, and neck pain hurting...who was I to complain...even to myself...look what He went through! Normal reaction?   I don't know.  Of course, I know the rest of the story...and that helped pull me out of this funky mood some time on Saturday.

Today is Easter Sunday!  Hallelujah!  I woke up, read each of the Gospel accounts from His resurrection until His ascension.  I love Easter!  I have never done the died eggs, or bunny ears...except when I wanted chocolate anyway!  But, growing up Jewish, we never did any of the Easter "commercial" or "religious" traditions. 

Jews celebrate Passover, which by the way, isn't the Jewish celebration for Easter, any more than Hanukkah is the celebration of Christmas.  Totally different holidays...all 4 of them!  (Except the Seder...the Passover meal-- is the Last Supper.)

"He is not here; He has risen just as He said."  Matthew 28:6
 I wanted to go to church today.  It has been so long!  I have a very difficult time sitting for that long in the car, then sit for the service, and then the ride home.  I would be out of commission for a week. However, I woke up with a migraine and serious back pain.  Fortunately, Dave, my still-Atheist husband, realized that we could watch the live broadcast from the computer...with it hooked up through the TV...so it was big enough to see.  And, my loving husband had a wonderful idea...he joined me through the entire service, except when we were standing, and I was singing on the top of my lungs.  I love the music!  It really makes my heart happy.  And, the words are all so true...so meaningful.  It was a loving gift he had given me...by being willing to go to the service, and by bringing the service to us...and if you are wondering...I was praying my heart out that Dave would ask Jesus into his heart as Lord of All.  He didn't.  I offered to pray with him, just in case he had...but not yet.  My prayers continue for my family...

Northland Church's link is located on the side bar.  They will be showing the amazing live broadcast on Monday evening as well.  And, it will be available by clicking on that link all during the week if you look on the right side of their newsletter where it says "Past 3 Services"...just click on the service you want to see and hear.  It was incredible. The sermon was wonderful...it even talked about elephants!  Now, aren't you interested in the service?  They praise Him, and sang about Him and to Him...it was so wonderful...I felt my heart would burst with happiness and gratitude.

"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.  And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."  Matthew 28:19-20

I get so excited to see where people are living that visit the He IS Able blog.  I especially feel a great excitement when people live in areas where they "aren't supposed to be Christian."  We had people from so many countries join the broadcast...it was beautiful to see in itself.  Of course, they didn't use their names.  We pray for everyone who comes to this blog...and doesn't!  But, I especially pray for the people who can not be the open Christians they want to be--for fear of persecution.  Some of those people take risk by reading this blog.  Please join us as we pray for these people.  We will have another post on this topic at another time.

I have spent most of the rest of the day calling Dave's family members, and my sisters to wish them a Happy and Meaningful Easter!  One of my nephews started his life in the Navy this morning!  I am really praying for him and his family.  They are the closest knit group...so full of love!  My son enlisted in the Air Force this week.  Please pray for us.  I was a wreck, as my close friends could attest, until I realized that I wasn't trusting in Him.  I wasn't trusting Him to keep Josh safe, and for Joshua to be Saved...hopefully before boot camp starts.  I wasn't trusting Him to keep me sane, while my 21 year-old son, my only baby, goes away for boot camp and then who-knows where for 4 years of our lives!  I wasn't trusting Him.  Period!  Exclamation Point!  I now have signs up in my art room, where I write this blog, and spend a lot of my time.  "I am trusting in You to __________."  And, I fill them in...there are so many.  It has given me a sense of peace.  So far I have managed not to grab Josh's situation out of His hands more than once...and I gave it back. They serve as great reminders that I don't need to be doing the worrying. Are you trusting Him?  After all that He has done for you...especially as you think about what this weekend was about...are you trusting in Him?  Perhaps make yourself a list...and write the sentence out each time...in the positive form..."I am trusting..."  It helps.  Believe me, it helps.  Give it to God.  Let it go.  I am so glad you are here with us.  We really appreciate you!

He Is Risen!  For us.  Hallelujah!

He IS Able,
Traci Starkweather

p.s.  Just a reminder.  We will be giving away that amazing card (side bar) on Wednesday.  Anyone who leaves a comment will be eligible to win if randomly chosen!  Winner announced Wednesday!

Friday, April 22, 2011

Dearest Friends~

I hope that you have a blessed Good Friday.  I hope that you can find the time to read about this day in your Bible.  It is a part of your family history.  It is something I feel we should all be informed about.  I also pray that you will have a Wonderful Easter as we celebrate our triumphant Kings rising from death...just as He said He would.  One of my favorite parts of this section of the Bible is imagining the faces on the women when they get to Jesus' tomb, and realize He is not there! 

I asked Michele to write our Holy Day post.  She gladly accepted.  I find her thoughts to be so creative, and her writing to be so clear.  Let me turn the post over to her.  Michele, thank you for coming up with such a wonderful piece!
__________________________________

I had been doing some research and looking some things up and I came across this sermon that was so inspiring, and the preacher states right on the website that it can be copied and used for free. So these are not my words but I was so moved by all the information, I so wanted to get across the message of Easter and this summed it up really well. Easter is an emotional Christian Holiday for me. Good Friday can be very sobering of sorts thinking of what Christ endured for me-- the passion and love He has for me, and then the rejoicing on Sunday as He rose from the grave and the victory of it all.

__________________________________

March 31, 2002 Bethlehem Baptist Church      John Piper, Pastor

The Risen Christ - Satisfied With His Sufferings
Isaiah 53:3-12 reads:

"He was despised and forsaken of men, A man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; And like one from whom men hide their face He was despised, and we did not esteem Him. For surely our griefs He Himself bore, And our sorrows He carried; yet we ourselves esteemed Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; The chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, and by His scourging we are healed. All of us like sheep have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; But the Lord has caused the iniquity of us all to fall on Him.  He was oppressed and He was afflicted, yet He did not open His mouth; Like a lamb that is led to slaughter, And like a sheep that is silent before its shearers, So He did not open His mouth.  By oppression and judgment He was taken away; And as for His generation, who considered that He was cut off out of the land of the living for the transgression of my people, to whom the stroke was due?  His grave was assigned with wicked men, yet He was with a rich man in His death, Because He had done no violence, nor was there any deceit in His mouth. But the Lord was pleased to crush Him, putting Him to grief; If He would render Himself as a guilt offering, He will see His offspring, He will prolong His days, And the good pleasure of the Lord will prosper in His hand. As a result of the anguish of His soul, He will see it and be satisfied; By His knowledge the Righteous One, My Servant, will justify the many, as He will bear their iniquities. Therefore, I will allot Him a portion with the great, and He will divide the booty with the strong; because He poured out Himself to death, And was numbered with the transgressors; Yet He Himself bore the sin of many, And interceded for the transgressors."

One of the great advantages of having the Old Testament and the New Testament in one Bible is that they give support to each other. Together they strengthen our faith that both are God’s Word.

So if you are Jewish or come from a Jewish background your confidence in the Old Testament – the Jewish Scriptures – may be strong. Yes, and with good reason. And so when you see the amazing fulfillment of the Old Testament in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, and his teachings, and the movement of Christianity that He unleashes, your confidence in the New Testament is made stronger.

Or if you have never read a syllable of the Old Testament and hear the story of Jesus Christ and His life and teaching and death and resurrection and the movement he unleashed you may be overpowered by the Truth and relevance and credibility of Christ and believe that He really is who He says He is and become a Christian. And then you discover that this Jesus embraces and endorses the whole Old Testament as True and reliable Scripture (as in Matthew 5:17 when He said, "Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill."). And so your confidence in the Old Testament grows because of the New Testament.

And so it works all through the Christian life. The better you know Jesus Christ, the better you know the roots of His life and ministry in the Old Testament where God was at work to prepare for the coming of his Son into history. And the better you know the Old Testament, the better you know the meaning of Jesus Christ and what He came to fulfill that God had been planning for so long.

So this morning I thought it would deepen our understanding and strengthen our faith if we fixed our gaze on the resurrection of Jesus as it was described by the prophet Isaiah 700 years before it happened. Here in Isaiah 53 we will see the content and the confirmation of the resurrection of Christ – content because the precious meaning of it for our lives is opened to us; and confirmation because it was predicted 700 years before it happened.

The Promised Servant of the Lord Was to Die
First, let’s notice that the promised Servant of the Lord was to die and why.
The death is made explicit in verses 8, 9, and 12. First verse 8. After verse 7 says He was led "like a lamb to the slaughter," verse 8 says that the slaughter actually was successful: "By oppression and judgment he was taken away; and as for his generation, who considered that he was cut off out of the land of the living, stricken for the transgression of my people?" He was "cut off out of the land of the living." He was killed. It was execution, not accidental.

Then verse 9 makes the death clear by referring to His burial: "And they made His grave with the wicked and with a rich man in his death, although He had done no violence, and there was no deceit in His mouth." He died and He was buried, and if we had time we could draw out the details of fulfillment in the life of Jesus here in relation to where and how He was buried. But I focus now simply on the fact that the death of God’s redeeming Servant is predicted clearly.

One more confirmation from verse 12: "Therefore I will divide him a portion with the many, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong, because he poured out his soul to death."

Ten Statements of Why God Planned for His Holy Servant to Die
Now, why did He die? Ten times we are told why. I will let the words of Scripture have their own multiplying effect by just saying them to you, without comment on each one. Ten times. Before I mention them notice verse 10, "But the Lord was pleased To crush Him, putting Him to grief." This death is not a historical accident. It is the purpose and plan of God. So as we hear these ten statements of why He died, keep in mind: these are God’s purposes, not human accidents. And if you will receive it, they are God’s love to you. Here they are. Ten statements why God planned for His holy Servant to die:

1. Verse 4: "Surely our griefs He Himself bore."

2. Verse 4: " . . . And our sorrows He carried."


3. Verse 5: "But He was pierced through for our transgressions."

4. Verse 5: "He was crushed for our iniquities."

5. Verse 5: "The chastening for our well-being fell upon Him."

6. Verse 5: "And by His scourging we are healed."

7. Verse 6: "The Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all."

8. Verse 8: "[He was] stricken for the transgression of my people."


9. Verse 11: "He will bear their iniquities."

10. Verse 12: "He bore the sin of many."

If you are here this morning and you have ever asked, What is the essence of Christianity? What’s at the heart and center of it all? Here is the answer. Let’s use the words of verse 6: All humans have gone astray. All of us have turned to our own way. This is called sin. Turning from God and making ourselves our own master and our own treasure.

But God was not willing to leave us in this guilty and condemned condition. He planned from ages past to send a Suffering Servant, not mainly to model love for us, but to bear our sins as a substitute for us. "The Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all." This is the heart of Christianity. Jesus Christ came into the world to fulfill this prophecy – yes, many others to be sure, but this one is central and basic. He came to die. He came to die in our place. He came to die for our sins. This is our only hope. And the New Testament is all about how this happened and how it affects our lives now and in the ages to come. I urge you to pursue the knowledge of these things with all your heart and all your mind.

The Redeeming Servant of the Lord Was to Rise
Now what about the resurrection? Let’s look at the resurrection of the redeeming Servant of the Lord in these words written 700 years before it happened. At least three times Isaiah tells us that the sacrifice that The Servant made in dying results in a resurrection triumph. He does not use the word "resurrection," but the reality is plain.

First, Verse 10b: "If He would render Himself as a guilt offering [which he did] . . ." now three things will result: "(1) He will see His offspring, (2) He will prolong His days, (3) And the good pleasure of the Lord will prosper in His hand." In other words, if He dies for others as a guilt offering – as a substitute – 1) He will live to see His offspring – those whom He has saved by dying for them – and 2) He will live for a long time ("prolong his days"), by implication, forever since when death is conquered it can’t defeat you again (Romans 6:9); and 3) God’s great purposes will triumph in His hands – He will take the scroll of history and unroll it as the Lord of heaven and earth (Revelation 5:5). This is a picture of the Messiah who was dead and is alive and victorious forever as the Lord of all those who receive his salvation.

Then Verse 11. Again triumph comes from death. "As a result of the anguish of His soul, He will see it and be satisfied; By His knowledge the Righteous One, My Servant, will justify the many, As He will bear their iniquities." Again three results from His dying for sinners: 1) He sees the fruit of His death and is satisfied. He is not dead. He is living and satisfied. His work is complete, and He is glad. He is alive and satisfied. 2) He justifies many – all those who trust in Him. If you trust Him, you are declared just and righteous before God. That is what "justify" means. A dead Christ does not justify. A living Christ justifies. 3) "He will bear their iniquities." Yes, He bore these iniquities when He died. But He goes on making intercession and bears them forever in the sense that as long as He lives it is plain that His death was utterly sufficient to pay for all your sins.

He is satisfied. We are justified. And all our sins are carried by another forever. We will never bear them again.

Finally, Verse 12. God speaks. "Therefore, I will allot Him a portion with the great, And He will divide the booty with the strong; Because [there is the third statement that this resurrection existence is because of his obedient death for sinners] He poured out Himself to death." In other words, after He pours out Himself to death He lives and divides the booty with the strong – as though His death were a great triumph in war with much booty.

He Will See It and Be Satisfied, among His Offspring
Let’s end on this note. The resurrection of Jesus did not happen for His sake alone. It was for His sake! O yes! And we would not have it any other way. Let Him be honored for his great work of salvation on the cross! Verse 11: "He will see it and be satisfied." Christ was raised from the dead for HIS satisfaction.

But what is the Son satisfied with? Verse 11 says, literally "He will see [it and] be satisfied." Verse 10 says, "He will see his offspring." I conclude that part of Jesus’ satisfaction in the resurrection is looking out on a great assembly of people from every race and tribe and language and nation who have trusted Him and been forgiven and justified. And with tremendous joy He walks among them now and in the ages to come – a people "great" and "strong" (verse 12). And He divides the spoil of His triumphs with them all. This is what He loves to do. This is His satisfaction. He delights to save. He loves to bring people from death to life so they can enjoy His majesty forever.

In just a moment we are going to sing two songs. One is "Crowns Him with Many Crowns" and the other is "Victory in Jesus." One rivets our attention on the Majesty of Christ the Risen Lamb upon the throne. The other catches us up into the victory and celebrates our Salvation: "He sought and He bought me with His own precious blood." That’s exactly the way it should be: Exult in your salvation and make much of Christ in his majesty.

But first: Are you His? You can be. You can belong to that great and strong people, even though you feel utterly unworthy. That is the whole point of the death of Christ. He died in our place. And all who trust Him as the Savior and Lord and Treasure of your life will be forgiven and justified and live forever with Him. I urge you to say "no" to all that pulls you away and say "yes" to Jesus Christ.                                                             (Copyright 2002 John Piper)

__________________________________

I ask each of you to please re-read that final paragraph.  Are you His?  If you are, we are so glad you are a part of the family!  If you are not yet His, and would like to be a Child of the Living King, Jesus Christ, we would be so happy to pray with you, and you will have eternal life, and your sins will be wiped away clean as new snow, you will be forgiven--truly.  You will be loved in a way you never even thought possible.  Just let us know...by email or in the comment section.  Please let me know how to get in touch with you.  Either Joan, our Prayer Team Leader, of myself will contact you. 
 
If you are a Christian or not, and do not own a Bible of your own, please let us know.  I will do my best to get one out to you.  Praying that you and yours have a blessed and meaningful Good Friday and Easter.  Perhaps once home, you can do some of those little activities that were explained in the Easter Extravaganza post of a few days ago.  This will spotlight Jesus and what He has done to your children's day! Thank you for being with us on this very special and important day! We hope you will join us on Monday.  Perhaps you are willing to tell us how you spend your Good Friday or Easter.  Simply email it to me, and we would love to share it in a post!  Sharing ideas with each other is part of this community here at the He IS Able blog!
 
He IS Able,
Traci Starkweather 

Thursday, April 21, 2011

Announcing the Winner of The Big Easter Give Away!

Hi Friends~
I know why you have stopped by today! You want to find out who won the
He IS Able Blog's BIG Easter Give Away!


Our Easter Give Away Includes:

Stamp Set (Artistic Etchings - SU!)

SU! Corner Punch-(pinking hearts)

SU! Rub-Ons

SU! 6 x 6 Paper Pack

Prima Bling Stickers

3 Easter Cards-

(one from Joan, Michele and Traci)

10 Different Occasion Cards

WFR Light Blue Gingham Ribbon

Accent Depot Light Blue Gingham Brads

Hot Pink Beads

Pumpkin Orange Ultra Fine Glitter

Light Blue, Green & Gold Glitter
***********************************************

Are you ready to find out who will win all of these items?  I thought so!

Congratulations go to Monica Gardner of gardnersbasket! 


Here is her randomly chosen comment:
Gardner's Basket said...

Wow! What a great give away! You are too good to us. -Monica Gardner (gardnersbasket)   April 15, 2011 5:04 AM

Monica, we thank you so much for your comment!  The prizes were donated by Michele, Joan and myself.  We are so thankful to guests like you who continue to visit the He IS Able blog!

We really appreciate all of you who come to the blog!  And thank you to those of you who entered this Give Away.  There will be Give Aways in the future, so stop in when you can.  We post on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays on a normal week.  

You may not know we have a Weekly Give-Away!  The card that you see over on the side bar is our "Card of the Week."  We give a donated "Card of the Week" to a randomly drawn winner who leaves a comment before Tuesday evenings at 8pm.  The winner is announced on Wednesday's post!  You can use the card for any reason, but we hope you will use it to share His Word, His love, or His Gift of Salvation! 

We have a very special post tomorrow!  We hope you will all join us for it!
Have a blessed day! 

He IS Able,
Traci Starkweather

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Card of the Week Winner Announced! Last Day to Enter Give Away!

Hi Friends~

Thank you so very much for joining us this very busy week!  We are so excited about things happening on the blog this week.  Today we will announce the winner of this week's "Card of the Week."  And, you have until Midnight tonight to enter to win our BIG Easter Give Away!  Take a look at all of the items you can win over on the side bar!  All you need to do is leave your real name, user name or initials in the comment section before Midnight Eastern Time.  All of the guidelines are over on the side bar!  On Thursday, there will be a special post Announcing the Winner of the Easter Give Away! On Good Friday, we will have a very special post that Michele would like to share with everyone.  I have read it, and it is wonderful! It is inspiring, it is so clear--educational, and I hope you will join us on this Holy Day.

So, let's find out who will win the beautiful "Card of the Week" that has been posted on the side bar for the last week!  If you left any type of comment, or a prayer request, or even if you left your name as an entry for the BIG Easter Give Away, before Tuesday 8pm, you have been entered in this give-away.  We take the comments and one is randomly chosen!  We announce the comment and the person who left it here on the blog!  If you live in the continental United States, you are eligible!  (We are working on a way to include all of you from other places in the world.  Please hang in there with us.)  If you are announced as the winner, you have until Tuesday 8pm to email me your mailing address.  I will get the beautiful donated card, an extra envelope and postage and send it right out to you.  Of course, we hope that you will use the card to "Share His Word, His Love, or about His Gift of Salvation" with the card you received.  You can, of course use it any way you would like.

And the "Card of the Week" will go to the person who wrote this comment:
"Thanks Michele for sharing on Deborah. You gave great insight and I learned a lot. It's given me some things to ponder on.  April 19, 2011 5:45 PM

And, who wrote this?  Blessings~ Catherine

Congratulations Catherine! Please remember,You have until Tuesday 8pm Eastern time to email me your mailing address.  I look forward to hearing from you soon! And, I agree with you!  I think that Michele did a wonderful job sharing on Deborah and the other Women of the Bible!  I know I learned a lot as well.   Michele shares about a different woman of the Bible on the 3rd Friday of the month.  I hope you will join us for our next get together of "Precious Women of God-- This Includes You!"

I hope everyone has their day planned for Easter already.  If you are looking for some projects for the children that are real-life to counter all of those jelly beans, please take a look at Monday's post.  It has many ideas that you could do at home.

Everyone, please remember to stop by tomorrow, and see who won the BIG Easter Give Away!  Have a blessed day!

He IS Able,
Traci Starkweather

Monday, April 18, 2011

Have An Easter Extravaganza and read details about Our BIG Easter Give Away!

Hi Friends~

I hope your weekend was as wonderful as ours!   I have something I would like to share with you today. A while ago, I was a Children's Church Director for a local church that was here in Central Florida.  It was so exciting...it was a brand new church family...even though we didn't yet have a traditional church building.  After all, the people are the church!  We met in a home that was donated and then we met in an office building that worked beautifully.  We had a separate area for each age group, and a Sanctuary!  We had infants from birth through the 6th grade.  Why am I telling you this?  Because we had such an amazing, fun, and Christ centered Easter Extravaganza!  I wanted to share the details with you.  You could share the information with your church perhaps they would use the ideas next year, or you could even use some of these ideas in your own home with your own children and perhaps their friends.  I do hope that this will be helpful or at least interesting to all! 

Why would we have an Easter Extravaganza at all?  Because we are told...

"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.  And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."  Matthew 28:18-20

Before I go on, let me remind everyone to please look on the side bar, and read about our BIG Easter Give Away!  You could win everything in the photo, if your real name, user name or initials are randomly chosen from the comment section, midnight on Wednesday night!  The winner will be announced on Thursday!!!!

Now, in our Christ Centered Easter Extravaganza there were a couple of activities that were not-Christ centered, but brought many, many families from the neighborhoods to the celebration.  (We put a large sign in front of our church.) When children (or adults) asked when the Easter Bunny was going to be there, I simply told everyone to respond with a similar answer "Today WE are celebrating Jesus Christ, Our Lord! Come on, let's get started!"  There were no bunny decorations, stickers or activities, except for the Egg Hunt.  I came to the decision that since the other churches were having them for members only, this would be a big draw of people to come...and if they had to look for candy with Scriptures...to hear the real story of Jesus and Easter several times, and remember it by hand-on activities...it would be worth it!  It was!  We had several new members join, and I believe we had close to 20 new students!
We did have an Easter Egg hunt.  In each egg was candy, and a Scripture about Easter that was done on the computer.  We put 3 of the Jellybean Prayers to a sheet of colored paper, so that the "White" would show up.  We also put the time and location of the event and a phone number to the sides.  We then, along with the youth group (teens) went house to house and we had previously put a hole in the corner of each page and tied a rubber band through it.  We then hung it on their garage door.  DO NOT DO THIS!  The colored paper bled when it rained all over people's doors.  I suggest putting each one in a baggie, and hanging it!

The Jellybean Prayer
An egg full of jellybeans, colorful and sweet,
Reminds me of God’s bounty with this Easter treat!

Red is for the blood Christ gave.
Green is for the palm’s cool shade.
Yellow is for God’s light so bright.
Orange is for prayers at twilight.
Black is for sweet rest at night.
White is for the grace of Christ.
Purple is for His days of sorrow.
Pink is for each new tomorrow.

This was on the opposite side, in bright colors and bold font:

Your Family Is Invited to Bridgeway Church’s 2nd Easter Extravaganza!
Saturday, April 14th---10am-12pm

Easter Egg Hunt (at 10:00 only) † Art Activities † Cupcake Walk
† Face Painting † Hear the Story of Easter † Make a Crown of Thorns & Empty Tomb † † Music †And many other activities!
 Prizes, Goody Bags & Treats! †

Bridgeway Church House (Address Goes Here)
Bring the whole family! Rain or Shine!
Bring a blankett & a camera!

Want more info? Call Traci at ________
An adult must accompany children.

Matthew 28:5 I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified.
He is not here! He has risen, just as He said He would!
___________________________________________________________ 

I asked teachers and some of the other leaders of the church and some of the older teens, and young adults to help out.  We ended up having everything donated from local stores and it did not cost the church a cent!

The event was on a Saturday, and we gave all of the people that came to church a flyer with this information, but colorful and with decorations.  We also hung a huge board in the hall, and wrote in the person's name only as they decided to help out...the more the volunteered...the more others wanted to do the same!

List their names and numbers on the handouts that they would return to you only.
Basically this is what we found we needed, with 1 of the people being in charge of each group, with complete instructions numbered in the order of importance: 

Friday night set-up team: 7-10pm: (5 people wanted) Get everything ready for the next day, so in the morning, all they need to do is put everything outside in the right location.
Set-up Team: 5 people wanted, starting at 8:00am  These people hung signs, (love of Christ, Happy Easter, Class room names with mottos,) signs to rest rooms (made by teens), and put all materials needed for the event in the right area.  We had some activities inside so they could cool off, and some outside.  (We live in Florida, it is in the 90's!)
One Person who can take down posters around the neighborhood, after the event:

A main goal was to get families to join the church or at least get the children to Sunday School...and the parents will usually follow.  So we had everyone fill out a form so we would have their name, phone, address, email, and children's ages.  We would then make it a point to introduce the parents and the children to the teacher's who would lead their child's class.

Of course, I made sure everyone met the Pastor and his wife.  I played hostess, and kept circulating from activity to activity to make sure they didn't need help, a break or more materials, cleaned the bathrooms, made sure people had sunscreen if wanted, and a blanket if they wanted, some chairs outside...not everyone can get up and down.

Registration: Have all guests fill out a registration form. Give name tags. Determine age and give the right color name tag to show the child’s age. Also, give children leaving a goody bag for each child, as well as a big thank you! Try to find a student of the same age as the visiting child to be a "buddy."  (Colored name tags come in handy in several ways.)  Have clipboards, many pens, colored tags for children, so you can put them in different groups for the egg hunt so the little ones don't get knocked over!  Outgoing people for this!  First impressions are everything.  (2 People)

After the event, I sent every family a handwritten thank you note, and an invitation for Sunday School that week, and that the parents could enjoy the service or sit in on the class and be a helper that week, or just leave the children there, and go get a cup of coffee...as long as they left their cell number, signed an emergency release form, and kept their phone on!  (So they could see how things were run, and what the teachers did with the kids.)

One thing we didn't realize we needed until all of the volunteers showed up was a parking crew.  We didn't have a paved parking lot..and cars were parking every which way in the field.  Someone could get hurt, cars could get blocked in, and we wanted to make sure every one's day started out on the right foot.  This was imperative!  Hostess:  Keep bringing drinks to the people working in the field and any outside activity.

Group Leaders: Each group of about 10 children in the same age group will be lead by a “Group Leader.” The Group Leaders will be given a “Route” to take the children/parents.  (Telling them which activity to go to next...all activities 10 minutes.) Every group will go to a different booth at different times…no traffic jams. We wanted the teachers to try to do this, since they knew many of the children. Parents were more than welcome.  Many of them learned things they didn't realize during the event also. (6 Group Leaders):
I know that many people learn by hearing, seeing or feeling/doing.  We wanted them to hear about Jesus and the Easter story several times.  We wanted them to use all of their senses through-out the morning/day.

Make the Announcements for the Egg Hunt:1 person
Plastic eggs were pre-stuffed over coffee and cake earlier that week. 
Have egg hiders: 6 people wanted
Empty Egg Table: The children will bring the empty eggs they found here.  (We wanted to reuse them each year.)

Face painting: THESE volunteers know how to face paint with Christian symbols...or happy Easter...no bunnies!Use different q-tips for each child.  Ask parent first....allergies? (2 people)

Tell about the miracle of Easter: 1 Person with a super large book...tell the story...not read it...keep the pictures facing the audience.  Can use puppet.

"The angel said to the women, 'Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified.  He is not here; He has risen just as He said."  Matthew 28:5-6

Volunteer to work at our Coloring Book Table: Each person will receive a handmade coloring book about Jesus. (I xeroxed some pages I put together...about 5 pages and a cover and blank page for notes if wanted.) They can start to color the cover. (You will talk about the different pages of the book. (The Easter Story) 1 volunteer needed.  This person re-tells the Easter Story while coloring with the children.  Do not read it, or just gab, please.

The Empty Tomb Table: each child will make an empty tomb out of clay. The volunteer leading this group, will tell the about the Easter Miracle: (1 person)
Have paper and spray bottle of water, or a hose.  Put their cave and rock on paper plate with their name to retrieve later.  Home made play-doh may be better?  Clay is hard to mold especially for little hands...and it is so messy!

"Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock.  He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away.  Matthew 27:59-60

The Table with the Crown of Thorns: The volunteer here will show the children the real thorn of thorns. (made of rose vines.) They will be allowed to touch the thorns.  I had started to weave crowns of thorns out of brown pipe cleaners...there were no sharp edges, but their were pointed corners. They would add more pipe cleaners with the help of the volunteer and group leader that leads the people from activity to activity.  The volunteer at the table will talk about Jesus and His crown of thorns, and tell them in an age appropriate way how Jesus was treated as he had to carry His own cross, and how the guards treated Him. (1 person)  Parents requested to join this activity.
"They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on hin, and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on His head." Matthew 27:28

Unique Cupcake/Cookie Walk: This person will have the children each stand on a paper Easter Symbol they learned about. The music will play from the CD on the table. When the music is stopped every child stops on an Easter symbol. The volunteer plays the music as the children stand on the laminated shapes and moves from one to another.  The music stops...they land on a shape...the volunteer takes a picture of the symbol out of a bag, asks the children what it is...and the person on that shape wins a  (1) cookie or a cup cake!   Not in the sun!!!  (1 person)

Hospitality Table: An adult area to meet members of the Bridgeway Family.  Also, literature on the Sunday School and church.  As well as a lot of the children's art showing.  Get them some lemonade, make them comfortable while children go through the activities...and make sure they know we would love to have them join the children.

Youth Group: Members of the Vintage Youth (teen youth)will be holding a bake sale! They will also have a poster with interesting facts about our youth group.

Prayer Person: After the children in a group finish the other activities they will be brought to you. (Parents, also, if possible). The prayer person will be comfortable praying at a child’s vocabulary level. This volunteer will have the boldness to ask the children & the adults, if they have made the decision to ask our Lord Jesus into their hearts and to be their Lord and Savior.

Follow Up Person: When the guests (adults and children) leave the prayer session…we would like to follow up with people who have made the decision to follow Jesus.  Let them know where they can go for leadership…and to get their name so we can continue to pray for them as well as minister to them.  Also ask if they have any other prayer needs at this time. (2 people)

Music: Members of the Praise Team sung with microphone and speaker system...organized by Director of Praise Team.  Live music on and off....CD's in between.

Clean-up group: As many people as possible!_____________

After the event...the church members had brought a pot luck.  Anyone was invited.

GOALS: Bring the Gospel to families who live in the area of the Bridgeway House!

Introduce families in the area of the Bridgeway House to Bridgeway!

Have a day of fun and togetherness for our Bridgeway Family!


Well, that is a lot of information.  I hope you found some fun but educational ways to share with your child, grandchild, niece, nephew...maybe let your child have an Easter Party.  Maybe share the ideas with your church.  It was so much fun, and one of the best days I have ever had.  So many people REALLY learned about Jesus and Easter.  Every child could tell me in pretty good detail what happened to Jesus and why!  We were all so blessed!  It was worth every bit of preparation, and 2 very difficult conversations with people with bright red paper dripping onto their white garage doors.  They were quite understanding!  However you celebrate Easter, I pray that everyone makes it a Christ centered holiday, and enjoys the day with loved ones....family, friends, or other people.  If you try any of these ideas, please consider letting us know how it went.  May you truly be blessed.

He IS Able,
Traci Starkweather

Friday, April 15, 2011

"Precious Women of God--This Includes You!" and Our Big Easter Give Away!

Dear Friends,

Well, it is the third Friday of April!  I hope you know what that means.  It means it is time for Michele to share this month's version of "Precious Women of God--This Includes You!"  You are in for a treat!  Michele wrote about Deborah of the Old Testament.

Our Big Easter Give Away!
I hope that everyone has wonderful plans for this weekend.  Easter is coming up sooner than you may think. We have family coming down from out of state to visit this weekend. We will be visiting one of our beautiful state parks, just a 1/2 mile down the road. If only it were cold, we would be able to show them hundreds of manatees that gather in the springs for the warm water.  Instead, they will only see our trees and flowers, and wow, do we have flowers in bloom!

By the way, Passover begins on Monday night! Have you ever been to a Christian celebration of the Seder?  It is amazing!  They show how each of the symbols of this meal, also are symbols for Jesus and His Resurrection! They traditionally symbolize the Exodus of Moses and all of the slaves out of Egypt.  It was always one of my favorite holidays!  (I have a few Passover cards to make...TODAY!)  And, then on that Thursday, April 21st we will announce the winner of our Big Easter Give Away!  (All you need to do to be entered is to leave your real or user name in the comment section!)  If you would like to leave your email, I will attempt to contact you, if you are the winner.  Otherwise, be sure to stop by and see if you won!  Please remember, anyone can see what you put in the comment section.  If your name is randomly chosen, and you have an address here in the continental United States...YOU WILL WIN ALL OF THE GOODIES!  (I apologize, I can not afford to send it out of the country...no matter how much we love having you visit!)  I hope you took a good look at the goodies...there is a list of all of the items on the side bar!  Check it out!

Also, if you leave a comment by Tuesday 8pm, and check back with us on Wednesday, you will find out if you were randomly chosen to receive the "Card of the Week!"  (You can see it on the side-bar.)  This is a weekly give away...and we are happy to send the card, an extra envelope and a postage stamp to anyone with an address here in the continental U.S.A.  This is a separate give-away from the Big Easter Give Away.
_____________________________ 

Back to "Precious Women of God--This Includes You!"  Here are Michele's thoughts to share with you today:
 Deborah
 Deborah was a prophetess and Judge in Israel – pretty much the top governmental office then, and the only woman ever to hold the position. Her story is told in the 4th and 5th chapters of Judges following a familiar pattern. First the people would do evil and fall away from serving the Lord, then God would judge them and deliver them into the hands of their enemies, then they would cry out and return to God and finally he would deliver them. Unfortunately, the lesson was never permanently learned and the whole cycle kept repeating.

 Cycle of Judgment
Within this cycle, Deborah ruled while Israel was under God’s judgment. An army commander named Sisera under a king name Jabin had “oppressed the sons of Israel severely for twenty years.” (Judges 4:3) Here’s how she ruled. “She used to sit under the palm tree of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in the hill country of Ephraim; and the sons of Israel came up to her for judgment.” (Judges 4:5)

 I always think it is interesting to see how those who don’t believe women can hold positions of governmental leadership within the church get around this passage of scripture. Deborah did it. God clearly appointed her and Israel clearly accepted her authority. The sons of Israel lined up (under her own tree no less) to have their case judged by her; her spiritual weight was evidently heavy.


The level of her spiritual authority is particularly demonstrated after she summons a warrior leader named Barak. She tells him to fight their enemy Sisera because the Lord revealed to her, “’I will give him into your hand.’” Listen to how Barak responds: “’If you will go with me, then I will go; but if you will not go with me, I will not go.’” (Verse 8) He was not willing to go into battle without her.


Nonetheless, Deborah was willing to go to war while letting Barak know that his decision would mean he would forfeit any credit. “’I will surely go with you; nevertheless, the honor shall not be yours on the journey that you are about to take, for the Lord will sell Sisera into the hands of a woman.’” (Judges 4:9)


Character Revealed in Actions
So, that’s the story of what Deborah did, but what does that tell us about her character? Her actions reveal her character. The first thing I see is confidence, so sure of God’s call that compromise stood no chance of hampering it. Deborah was plain spoken and direct, honest, decisive and courageous. No waffling. No shirking from hard choices. She probably saw life pretty black and white—no gray areas to vacillate over.
 Is there a character lesson from Deborah for those of us—both men and women--in leadership roles today? Yes. But don’t mistakenly admire Deborah for the wrong thing and automatically assume you can’t follow in her footsteps especially if you have a “softer” type personality. The point is not her “assertiveness” but her uncompromising integrity to be about God’s business.


Deborah had a great fruitful harvest. She didn’t neglect or compromise her call from God, as unusual as it was in her time. Deborah was a woman of influence and her spiritual mantle created an atmosphere of courage for both men and women. God favored her and that is seen most clearly in the Bible’s last line about her ministry. Remember that when she Judged Israel it had been under severe oppression for twenty years. The end result was a double portion of victory. “And the land was undisturbed for forty years.” (Judges 5:31)
__________________________

Michele, you do such a wonderful with these monthly re-introductions to these women of the Bible!  I grew up learning about the Old Testament only, and I do not recall ever learning about the women...except for Eve, Abrahams wife, and Queen Esther.  You make it so interesting to look at their lives and try to see the similarity and differences between these amazing women and myself, and my friends and family.  Thank you for serving the Lord in this way, and for reaching so many of our guests!  You are wonderful!
______________________________

Prayer Team Members Wanted

"And whatever you ask in My name, that I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask anything in My name, I will do it."
John 14:13-14


If you like to pray for others...we would love for you to consider to join our Prayer TeamJoan, our Prayer Team Leader will simply ask how many minutes you can set aside to pray...and she will give you a list to fit your needs!  Prayer Works!  He hears and answers our prayers.  And, since we are a community here, it is important part of our lives. You can, of course, try it out, and if you find you can't fit it in your schedule, you can stop.  No pressure.  Of course, we will be praying for you, also.  All that we ask is that you are a Christian, and that you have at least 10 minutes a day to pray for our guests needs, or their loved one's needs, or your fellow team's needs here at the
He IS Able blog.  Please email Traci, if you have an interest, or would like more information.  It is a wonderful way to serve your community, and serve your Lord at the same time!

"And all things, whatever you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive."  1 John 3:22

Have a wonderful weekend!  Spend some time with the Lord, and please sign up for our Big Easter Give Away, and our "Card of the Week" give away!  It would be fabulous if you would consider joining our prayer team while you are in prayer time this weekend.  It would be appreciated!  And, we do appreciate each of you for stopping by or getting involved in one of the many ways possible!

Here is a brief view of next week here at the He IS Able blog:
Monday     -Post (How to Host an Easter Extravaganza)
                    -Passover Seder begins at Sundown
Tuesday     -Comments for the "Card of the Week" must be in 
                      by 8pm!               
Wednesday-"Card of the Week" winner announced!
                     -Post (Don't Be Weary!)
Thursday    -Winner of Our Big Easter Give Away Announced!
Friday         -Good Friday
                     -Post about Easter 
Sunday        -Happy Easter! He Has Risen!!!


We hope you will be with us for a very exciting week!  Michele has been hard at work for a wonderful Easter post.  I know it will be just wonderful. Joan faithfully lifts all of you up in prayer, if you have a specific request, please either post it in the comment section, or if confidential, email it to Traci...I will send it to Joan, only.  God Bless!

He IS Able,
Traci Starkweather

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Big Easter Give Away and "Card of the Week" Winner!

Easter Give Away!  See Details on Side Bar or Below in Post!
Hi Friends~                                                 

Such an exciting day here at the He IS Able blog!  We have the "Card of the Week" Winner to announce and we want to make sure you know all about our Easter Give Away--keep reading!  First, I would like to share one of the devotions from the book, Whispers of Promise published by Barbour.  Here it is:

Witnessing
Faith, lived out consistently,
may turn some doubting hearts to
 the Savior.  Then instead of being
horrified by their wrong judgment,
they too, will share the blessing
when every knee bows to Jesus.
We who once deserved
condemnation have seen it turned
aside for mercy.  Let's share that
with as many as we can.
~Anonymous

Witnessing is the idea behind our "Card of the Week" give aways.  We give these cards away in hopes that you will share about "His love, His Word, His gift of Salvation."  THAT is witnessing.  Sharing the Gospel...THAT is witnessing.  We are commanded to do it.  It is easy to do if you stop and think of all that He has done for us. Think of the love He shows us. Think of all of His amazing promises in the Bible...and you will want to share...to witness with others.

    "Then Jesus came and spoke to them, saying,
"All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 
     Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
     "teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you:
and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."  Amen. 
 Matthew 28:18-20

Announcing This Week's "Card of the Week" Winner!
Congratulations, Melisa Waldorf!

How wonderful, Melisa!  Please email me (side bar) before Tuesday 8pm with your mailing address.  How do you let me know if you do not want the gorgeous card that has been displayed?  (For some crazy reason!)  Simply, don't send me your mailing address.  Still come to the blog.  Still leave comments, and be entered for next week's give away, leave prayer requests...and enjoy the sharing!  Sadly, if you do not contact me in time, the incredible card will go back into the He IS Able stash of cards!

How do you play?  Simply leave a comment each week before 8pm Tuesday.  One of the comments will be randomly chosen...and the writer will receive the card, an extra envelope with postage.  The card will be sent to any continental US address.  We are working on a way to include anyone around the world in this give away.  Please be patient...It will happen soon!

Here is Melisa's comment:

"Hi Traci. So sorry it took so long for me to get over here. You left a comment on my blog a while back and I have been in the middle of moving. I'm trying to get back into the swing of things online now. I'm so glad you invited me to check out your blog. What a blessing it has been to read your post. I LOVE what you are doing here and your boldness. I will be adding your blog button to my blog. I will try to check in when I can. Your cards are wonderful, and I agree, we are our own worst critic. If only people knew how long it takes me sometimes to complete a project becuase I change things around or can't make a decision. And yes, it's normal to get the cut lines in your "cutting" pad for the die machine (I'm not sure which one you use). I will say a prayer for you and you ministry here! hugs to you! Melisa


Oh and I almost forgot. I am praising Him for so many things, I am sooooo blessed. But most recently I am praising Him or our new home and today for answers to prayer request regarding a friend. I would love to donate some cards or bookmarks to you to give-away here. If this would be helpful, then email me. Have a blessed week!"
~ By Melisa Waldorf on Praise Him! And we have Cards by Traci~ on 4/6/11

Melisa, thank you so much for your beautiful words!  I love being a part of this blog, and thank you for letting me know about my die-cut plates and that you may donate cards to the blog.  Thank you so much!

About Our Easter Give Away...
Lots and lots of goodies!  And, all you need to do is leave your real or user name in the comment section!  We will announce the winner of this give away on Thursday the 21st of April--right before Good Friday!  If you would like to be contacted, leave an email address.

                                      Our Easter Give Away Includes:
 Stamp Set (Artistic Etchings - SU)
 SU Corner Punch-(pinking hearts)
SU Rub Ons
 SU 6 x 6 Paper Pack
 Prima Bling Stickers
3 Easter Cards-
(one from Joan, Michele and Traci)
10 Different Occassion Cards
WFR Light Blue Gingham Ribbon
Accent Depot Light Blue Gingham Brads
Hot Pink Beads
Pumpkin Orange Ultra Fine Glitter
Light Blue, Green & Gold Glitter

All of these items will be shipped to one person in a Continental US Address.  Be sure to check the blog on April 21st to see if you won!  Just leave your user or real name as a post in the comment section--feel free to leave your email address if you are OK with others seeing it.  The randomly chosen recipient will have until Tuesday 8pm to email me (Traci) with your mailing address.  If the recipient does not contact me within that time, a new recipient will be chosen to receive all of these fabulous items!

And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15
Thank you so much for being here.  I try to tell you that often.  They aren't words to just fill up space.  It is true.  We appreciate you.  That's why Michele had the idea to just have a Give-Away for Easter...no questions to answer, no stories needed...just your real or user name so we can announce you!  We are so grateful you are here that Joan, Michele and I each added items to the Easter Give Away!  Of course, your comments, your prayer requests really mean a lot to us.  It is like a 2 way conversation.  With this Easter Give Away we just want to say "thank you" and "Happy Easter."   God Bless!

He IS Able,
Traci Starkweather                                     TraciStarkweather@gmail.com