His Child

The Bible tells us in Mark 10:14 "...Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them..." I learned this verse very early. I colored several pictures throughout my early years that showed Jesus with his arms outstretched and children running to Him. I grew in faith with that verse in the back of my mind.

As an adult I see other things in that verse that bring me comfort.

The children wanted to come to Jesus. It was the adults that were standing in their way. The children wanted Jesus. They wanted Jesus to know them. But the adults discouraged them. Oh, I know they had their reasons. But they missed a major point in Jesus' teaching--the gospel is for all. Jesus came to earth for everyone--man, woman and child.

I find enormous comfort in the fact that no matter what anyone else wanted, Jesus wanted the children to come to Him.

The Bible tells us in John 3:17 that Jesus wants us to be saved. He didn't come to the world to exclude but to include. He wants everyone. I draw much comfort in knowing that however messed up I am and whatever I do that Jesus wants me to come to Him no matter who or what is in the way. He wants me to draw closer to Him.

Finally, Jesus, my Lord and Savior, has more than enough love to reach everyone. He shows no preference but calls us all. His example of perfect love shows me that when it comes to His love, it is never divided between His people, but multiplied for them.

I thank God that in reaching out for the children that He wants me no matter what and that I can still get to him no matter what the obstacle. I pray that I do not stand in the way of any child of any age that wants to come to Jesus, but will do what I can to help them get to Him.

And I thank God that He calls me His child!

Ideas Flowing for the Flu?

The flu struck our house like dust bunnies under the bed. The hardest part is knowing what to do once you feel better yet still "quarantined." You may not feel like reading or writing. Television becomes boring after a while. You really want to be productive, and you want to be with your family. You walk the floors. You eat because that's all you feel like doing.

So what do we do to keep the flu from flowing and ourselves from going crazy.

Below are just a few ideas--some especially for children.

• Paint your fingernails and toenails a wild and crazy color. Mine are teal at the moment. My husband says that it is a good thing we are stuck in the house and no one can see them. But I kind of like them. So don't be surprised if you see me next time with orange or teal or purple polish or a combination of them all.
• Fix your hair in a different way. Parting it on the other side is a start. Remember it is only temporary. Of course, you have to feel well enough to wash any goo or "purple" from your hair once you have experimented.
• Stack the antibacterial gel bottles in a design or like building blocks. This works good with engineers who are sick.
• Text your kids/parents funny messages to cheer them and you.
• Make up limericks about the flu and you. You can even set them to music.
• Carry a pocket size recorder around with you to tape thoughts, reminders, and messages to friends and family.
• While laying in bed, think of the funniest thing that ever happened to you. Write it down, record it or tell a loved one. It will cheer you. And you never know, it could be the idea that sparks the next best seller.
• Play soothing music..
• Bark or imitate an animal singing your favorite song (This comes after the sore throat has left).

I hope these tips will prove helpful to you and help you conquer whatever ails you.

Paula

P.S. I might look a little different next time you see me. How long does it take purple to come out of your hair?