Before the Time Runs Out

Acts 20:24
However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.

The clock ticks down to thirty seconds. The team needs to score three points to win. Do the players give up? No. The coach uses the clock—down to the last seconds of the game to encourage the players to make a pass, a basket, a win.

Basketball game

We're in basketball season in our family. Three grandchildren play and our son coaches. We watch college teams on TV and in person. Intensity of the games can be exciting. We've witnessed fantastic plays and some that just stink. In basketball, players need to finish what they start. When a player shoots the ball they need to follow through. When the other team shoots, a player needs to rebound. When the point person sets a play in motion, the team can execute a pick or screen. The team pushes through until the final buzzer rings. That's what they signed up for, to finish the game.

As a believer in Jesus, I want to follow through. I need to finish strong. Sometimes I want to give up and take the lazy route. But, Jesus didn't call me to be a slouch. He wants me to be a team player and one who finishes the tasks he sets before me. Maybe it's my age, but I've finally figured out that I just need to plow ahead with what God puts on my heart and not worry. God wants me to continue to serve him and step up before my time runs out.

My aim is to finish the tasks God sets before me; to continue to give glory to God and share the news of his grace.

Fiction Review: Under the Midnight Sun (The Heart of Alaska Book #3) by Tracie Peterson & Kimberley Woodhouse

Book Description:

Tayler Hale is ahead of her time as one of the first women naturalists. She has always loved adventure and the great outdoors, and her remote job location also helps keep her away from the clutches of the man to whom she once made a foolish promise. It seems

she must keep running, however, and in secret, her boss from Yellowstone arranges for a new job . . . in Alaska.

The popular Curry Hotel continues to thrive in 1929 as more visitors come to Alaska and venture into the massive national park surrounding Denali. Recent graduate Thomas Smith has returned to the hotel and the people he considers family. But when a woman naturalist comes to fill the open position and he must work with her, everything becomes complicated.

The summer brings unexpected guests and trouble to Curry. With his reputation at stake, will Thomas be able to protect Tayler from the danger that follows?

My Review:
I love this well-written story set in beautiful Alaska! I haven't read the first two in the series and didn't feel I needed to in order to enjoy Under the Midnight Sun. Tayler's character is complex and inspiring. For that reason, I'd recommend this book to young adult women; although I am getting ready to retire and she inspired me. The descriptions are lovely and the story line flows well. Female readers will fall in love with Thomas. He's a hardworking, kind-hearted man. And I got tickled over the secondary story of Mrs. Johnson and her suitors. I was a little sad when the book ended, not because the ending was sad but because I wanted to read more. This is a perfect book to snuggle up with on a cold winter day. Get a cup of coffee or tea and a cozy blanket and enjoy. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Courage Scares me a Little

2 Timothy 1:7
For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. 

Cowardly Lion: [crying] You're right, I am a coward! I haven't any courage at all. I even scare myself. [sobbing] Look at the circles under my eyes. I haven't slept in weeks! Tin Man: Why don't you try counting sheep? Cowardly Lion: That doesn't do any good, I'm afraid of 'em.

The Cowardly Lion from the Wizard of Oz feared everything, even the sweet sheep you count in your sleep. I remember watching the movie and getting frustrated with the "king of the forest." He drove me crazy because he was so timid. But as an adult, I've found myself in the same boat. Afraid I'll fail. Scared I won't say or do the right thing. Uncomfortable making decisions. Paralyzed by fear that stops me in my tracks. I may not be afraid of sheep, but sometimes anxiety has kept me from moving forward.

I wrote earlier this week that my word for 2019 is courage. That scares me a little bit because God asked me to be brave. Not just for myself, but for Him. I feel a tug and a nudge from Him to be bold and move forward for Him. To take my writing goals and conquer them. To speak up for Him. To show the world I love Jesus. As I read this morning, I came across 2 Timothy 1:7. The Holy Spirit gives me power mixed with love and self-discipline. What a perfect verse for me for 2019. Courage, love and self-discipline. Wow! This little verse Paul wrote to Timothy bolstered my confidence. I want to remind myself every day that God placed this on my heart.

The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Deuteronomy 31:8

2018 Fiction Favorites!

Out of the numerous books I read last year and the many I've reviewed, I decided to choose the top five fiction favorites for 2018; in no particular order. I've enjoyed each one. The authors' excellent writing and wonderful stories stood out to me. I was surprised to see that three of the five are historical fiction, since I usually read contemporary. Each title is linked to my original review. If you're looking for a good book to read this winter, check out my favorites!

• §  Things Left Unsaid by Courtney Walsh
• §  Reason to Breathe by Deborah Raney
• §  Freedom's Light by Colleen Coble
• §  Where the Fire Falls by Karen Barnett
• §  The Fashion Designer by Nancy Moser

I have to sneak in at least one picture book— my first love in books!

• §  Hello Lighthouse by Sophie Blackall

Do you Have a Word?

My daughter, Maggie, has a Cricut, a template cutting tool. She creates beautiful designs for shirts, pillows, and so much more. When I was visiting the other day, I wore a plain pink sweatshirt. She knows I love a particular quote from Cinderella. Before the day was over, I had a newly designed pink sweatshirt that quoted Cinderella's mother, "Have courage, be kind." I love it!

The next day, I saw that Dayspring, a Christian card and inspirational gift company, shared a "Word of the Year" quiz On Facebook. I've chosen a word for the new year before, but hadn't settled on anything for 2019. I trust Dayspring so I thought why not.

My word? COURAGE! Not a coincidence.

My new shirt proclaims to have courage and be kind. Bravery, with a peaceful, loving spirit.  The Holy Spirit is nudging me to have courage in 2019. I love that. God knows what lies ahead. He gives me what I need. May the courage I muster come from Him.

Happy New Year-What's the Plan?

Proverbs 16:1-3

To humans belong the plans of the heart,
    but from the Lord comes the proper answer of the tongue.

All a person’s ways seem pure to them,
    but motives are weighed by the Lord.

Commit to the Lord whatever you do,
    and he will establish your plans.

For me, 2019 arrives with changes. I'll continue to rehab my brand new knee as I head back to work, after an extended medical leave. With no arthritic pain in my knees, I can begin to take walks again and enjoy the outdoors. Retirement is around the corner. I'll be making plans for what I want to do next. I plan to keep writing and pen more fiction. Two things I enjoy, crocheting and embroidering, will keep my hands busy. As my grandson said when I told him I would be retiring, "You'll get to spend more time with family." Yes, Tim and I will take some trips and enjoy our family. All these changes are good. But I know the plans I make may not be the ones the Lord has in mind.

Proverbs 16 reminds me to check in with God before I make too many plans and definitely before I plunge in feet first. The Lord knows what's best for me. He knows my future and understands my needs. But how do I know what God wants me to do? I read his word, the guide for my daily life. I listen to his people. He provides wisdom through others. I pray! Then I wait for the nudge. God instilled the Holy Spirit in me when I accepted Jesus as my Savior. That beautiful, wonderful Spirit guides me, comforts me, and shows me the direction I need to go. I'm thankful I have one who loves me so much that He wants to lead me into the new year and show me the way.

John 14:26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.

What are your plans for the new year?

Merry Christmas

May God bless you with 

peace, joy, hope and 

love this holiday season!