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Thank You!

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Thank You!

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Thank You!

I Peter 3:8,9
Finally, all of you, be of one mind, having compassion for one another.  Love as brothers.  Be tenderhearted, be courteous, not returning evil for evil, or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, returning blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you might inherit a blessing.

The Bible talks often about the "one another" concept.  Pray for one another, love one another, encourage one another, forgive one another.  I Peter 3:8 & 9 is a good reminder that tells us that if we want to be blessed, we need to bless others as well.  It's our calling.  This is not really a conditional promise that says you must bless in order to be blessed.  It one of those natural consequences.  When you are encouraging and blessing others, you are blessed in return.

I remember one day when my friend called and asked, "Are you going to be home for a little while?"  I said yes, and she replied, "Good.  I'm bringing you some roses."  And she did.  They were gorgeous.  What a blessing they were to me!  And she told me often how much it encouraged and blessed her to be able to share her flowers with friends.

Why not think of some little things - or maybe even big things - you can do today to encourage someone you know?  Write a note, call, say a kind word, or in some other way brighten someone's day.  My friend, I encourage you today to be a blessing to someone else and I guarantee you will be blessed, too!

Father, thank You for the joy of serving you by serving one another.

By Ann Shorb

Copyright Ann Shorb 2007

I Timothy 2:1-2
I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority over you; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

Have you ever thought about the difference between forgetting and remembering? Remembering is a conscious choice. It involves an effort on my part to pull from my memory bank thoughts and feelings previously deposited there. Forgetting . . . well, that just happens. I fail to send that birthday card to my friend, or I let the appointment with the dentist slip by. Oops! It happens more frequently than I'd like! How do I stop forgetting? I make that conscious effort to remember. Date books, To-Do lists, and sticky notes all help prompt me to bring to mind the things I need to do.

Tomorrow is Memorial Day here in the United States. It's a conscious effort by our government to help us remember and honor those who fought and died for our country lest we forget the great price of our freedom. As we pause to remember them, let us not forget those who currently serve in our armed forces, and those who lead our country. Please take a few moments to pray for the provision of their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs. Pray for their protection, and ask God to bless their loved ones here at home.

Many of you reading this live outside of the U.S. Regardless of where you are tomorrow, take a moment to pray for those who lead your nation. Ask God to give wisdom and direction to those in authority. Thank Him for the blessings you have around you. Really, we need to do this more than just on one special day every year. We need to let every day be a memorial day. Are you forgetting to pray? Remember!

Lord, You have blessed us as a nation with great freedom and riches. Thank You for the abundance of these gifts. May we never forget Your kindness to us, no matter where we live.

By Ann Shorb
Copyright Ann Shorb, 2007

Romans 8:31
What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

Many years ago while I was driving around town doing errands, well-known Bible teacher and author, Dr. Warren Wiersbe was on the radio. He was presenting a lesson on discouragement from Romans chapter eight that I've never forgotten.

His entire message was encouraging, but here's one nugget that I've shared with many people. Whenever the clouds of discouragement hang over you, pick up your Bible and read the words of the apostle Paul in Romans 8. Pay particular attention to verses 31-39, and the many times he uses the phrase "for us."

What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?
He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?
Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's elect? It is God who justifieth.
Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.
Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.
For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

As you focus on the thought, "If God be for us, who can be against us?" rephrase it and make it personal. Remind yourself, "GOD IS FOR ME!" Say it to yourself four times emphasizing a different word each time: God is for me! God is for me! God is for me! God is for me! You can even substitute your own name for the word "me" and read it through again and again. Meditate on this truth and carry it with you from morning till night. In fact, why not print it on a card and stick it on your mirror, windowsill, refrigerator or computer--anywhere you'll see it often? Read it and rejoice! Let it remind you of songs about God's love like the one I've printed below, and turn that sadness into gladness.

Almighty God, when discouragement settles around me, please replace my depressing thoughts with strength, hope and joy as I recall that Your love is so strong that it will never let me go, and that You are always working on my behalf.

By Ann Shorb
Copyright Ann Shorb, 2007

MY MOTHER'S SONGS

Colossians 3:16
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

Even now as I close my eyes I can see my mother standing at the kitchen sink washing dishes. Routinely she washes and rinses, but all the while she sings. Rock of Ages . . . Abide With Me . . . His Eye Is On the Sparrow . . . The Old Rugged Cross . . . The list of songs I learned from her could go on and on. She never sang a solo in church, nor was ever in the choir, but she sang as she worked, as she drove, as she went through her daily routine.

Throughout history we find songs of mothers reflecting the greatness and goodness of God at work in their lives. In Luke 1 we read of Mary's song of faith, acceptance and praise after learning that she had been chosen to be the mother of the Messiah. Her song looks forward to the work of God in her life and the lives of His people. In the Old Testament, I Samuel 2 records the prayer-song of Hannah as she looks back in praise and worship for the grace of God in granting her deepest desire by giving her a son.

One of my mother's greatest gifts to me was to teach me, through her example, that the songs of faith and joy will keep your heart and mind steady, even in the tough times. The truths I learned from those hymns carried me through my adolescence and young adulthood and into the later years of my life. They gave, and still give, the gift of hope and comfort.

As my mother was dying she could no longer sing her songs of courage and strength, so I laid my head next to hers on the pillow, and I sang to her. It was my way of giving back to her the gift that she had given to me.

Thank You, Father, for such sweet memories of a mother who loved You. And thank You for the gift of song.

By Ann Shorb
Copyright Ann Shorb, 2006

Philippians 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Our trip was going smoothly. The weather was good and the road conditions safe. My husband and I were traveling south through Virginia on I-95 from Pennsylvania to Florida when suddenly traffic came to a halt. That's not usual for a major highway, but soon it became apparent that this delay was worse than normal.

The radio told us that several hours earlier there had been a horrific accident about 30 miles ahead that required cleaning up an overturned truck, and actually resurfacing the road to repair the damage from the fire that occurred. The wait was long, and we were between exits so there was no chance of escaping and finding another route. All I wanted was a rest stop so we could get out and stretch. Some of the trucks near us were noisy. For hours we inched toward our destination at less than 5 miles per hour. Florida seemed awfully far away!

Turning my head, I saw what I had been missing. Dogwood trees were blooming along the roadside. Tiny soft pink blossoms covered other trees. It was a beautiful day so we put down the windows and enjoyed the warm air. Since it was neither too hot nor too cold, we didn't have to run the heater or the air conditioner, saving us fuel. The birds were singing and spring was in the air. Before long my mood of impatience turned to thankfulness for the blessings I had almost overlooked. The gas tank was full, the sun was shining and it was the perfect day. We put on some relaxing music and enjoyed the wait.

That experience reminded me once again that it's not the events of life that determine whether I'm happy or miserable, it's my attitude. Of course, I would rather have traveled without this long delay, but I had a choice. I could make the best of the situation and find the blessings in the moment, or I could fret, stew, worry and be miserable. Either way, I still had to wait. The choice was up to me

Father, how I thank You for opening my eyes to see the beauty around me that day. The next time I am miserable, remind me to stop focusing on the negative and to look at the blessings You place all around me.

By Ann Shorb
Copyright Ann Shorb, 2006

Psalm 145:8
The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger and great in mercy.

Psalm 37:1-4
Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.

When our children were little, we taught them the simple prayer that many children say before they eat: "God is great. God is good. Let us thank Him for our food." We said that prayer three times a day, over and over again. Truly our hearts were thankful, but I know we never have fully comprehended what the full meaning is of those first two phrases: "God is great. God is good."

The scriptures remind us over and over again of the goodness and the greatness of God. Psalm 145 says, "The Lord is good to all." Every human being experiences the goodness and the greatness of God. Sometimes that may seem unfair to us, and we may worry about the evil person getting a blessing, when really he or she does not deserve it; however, Psalm 37 reminds us, "Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart."

I love that phrase "Feed on His faithfulness." Have you been feeding on His faithfulness, goodness and greatness? The Lord is good! He is good to all. He is good to you, and He is good to me.

Heavenly Father, thank You that when I meditate on Your goodness my heart rejoices and the burdens of the day get a little bit lighter.

By Ann Shorb
Copyright Ann Shorb, 2007

II Corinthians 12:9
And He said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

There's a little red rock sitting on my desk near my computer. I call it my dissertation stone. You see, years ago when I was working on my doctorate, I faced the same battle every time I faced a new assignment. I'd sit down to write my paper or to take an exam and Satan, my enemy, would be right there beside me whispering in my ear, "You can't do this. You aren't smart enough." When I stopped long enough to remind myself that I had done well last time, he argued, "But you won't get it right this time." He filled my head with such doubt and fear, that I'd get up and walk away. The problem wasn't that he was telling me lies. Satan always tells us lies! The problem was, I was believing his lies! When it came time to research and write my dissertation, the most challenging academic assignment I'd ever faced, the doubts and fears only intensified.

Driving home one day, author Max Lucado was on the radio discussing his new book entitled He Still Moves Stones. His words were so intriguing that I couldn't get out of the car once I reached home. He reminded me that the very same power that brought Christ back to life and rolled away that incredible stone that sealed His grave is available to me today. It hasn't changed and it hasn't diminished. I can face any impossible situation in His power. Whatever difficulty I'm facing today, God's power is sufficient to overcome. God still moves stones!

As I stepped out of my car, I glanced down and there among all the white gravel was one very noticeable little red stone. I picked it up, carried it to my desk, and placed it at the base of my computer monitor as my visual reminder that God still moves stones. Every time I looked at that little red rock I was reminded to ask God for His power to face that difficult task of writing my dissertation. Satan continued to whisper his lies to try and defeat me, but I no longer believed them.

My friend, as you meditate on the miracle of the resurrected Christ today, remember that whatever impossible situation you are facing, God's power is sufficient to make you victorious. There is nothing too hard for Him. He still moves stones!

Almighty God, we praise and bless Your name because of who You are. May we never lose sight of Your greatness, and never stop trusting Your power. May we live in the power of the resurrection!

By Ann Shorb
Copyright Ann Shorb, 2007

Psalm 1:3
And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

It was 7:30 in the morning and I was hearing sounds that I don't usually hear in our quiet little neighborhood. Bzzzzzz Bzzzzzz Crack. Thump. Bzzzzzz Crack Thump. My mind was curious to see what was happening outside, but my body wasn't as excited about pursuing the thought. Finally, when the two were in agreement, I crawled from under the warm covers and peaked through the curtain. There were trucks and machines everywhere as a crew of sturdy men attacked the mighty tree that stood just a few feet away in the neighbors' yard. Within hours the men finished their work and my mighty friend that greeted me each morning was gone. There was no visible evidence that a gigantic tree had ever been there.

Although the visible presence of the tree had been removed, I knew that beneath the surface, the roots still spread over as large an area as the tree occupied above the ground level. A massive root system still existed. A part of the tree still remained. A very important part.

Psalm 1 reminds me that the Lord sees those who trust in Him as trees planted by the rivers of water. Strong, solid, unmoving, and unchanging in spite of the storms of life, because they are rooted in Him.

I couldn't help but wonder about the time when I'm gone from this earth and there is no visible evidence that I have even been here. What will remain to tell others that I lived? It gives me great joy to know that something will remain. The root system of my faith will keep on growing. As I have shared it with others, and they with still others, my faith and hope will be here when I am gone.

Lord, thank you that the faith I live by today is something that can outlast my human life. Thank you for the joy of sharing it with others, and helping them develop roots in You and Your Word.

By Ann Shorb
Copyright Ann Shorb, 2007

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Hebrews 4:15-16
We have not a high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

Recently I had a conversation with a friend. It was one I won't forget for a long time because I was able to pour out my heart and share with her some of the things that I've been thinking--deep things that you don't share with anyone but a good, close friend whom you trust.

There are times when we pray and we long to pour out our heart to God like we would to a good, close friend, but we fear that we can't. We may think, "God is too big to care about my petty problems," or "I'm too ashamed to tell Him about that." But Hebrews 4:15 -16 tells us that there is nothing that we can't share with God. Jesus Christ, God the Son who became our High Priest, knows what it is like to feel pain and sorrow, and to be tempted. So, knowing that He knows and He feels our pain, we may boldly tell Him anything!

It was said of Martin Luther, the famous theologian, that when he began his prayers, he prayed with such repentance that you almost felt sorry for him, but as he continued in prayer he spoke with such boldness that you almost feared for him. Luther shared with God everything that was on his heart, including his anger, his hurt, his pain, and even at times his disappointments with God.

My friend, I encourage you to come respectfully and boldly before God's throne. Pour out your heart to Him like you would to that good, close friend. Be totally unafraid find release in knowing that He cares about every detail of your life.

Blessed Jesus, no matter what burden or weakness I bring to You, Your love enfolds me and Your grace sustains me. What a good friend You are!

By Ann Shorb
Copyright Ann Shorb, 2006

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KEEP YOUR FORK!

I Peter 1:4
An inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away is reserved in heaven for you. (NKJV)

Below is a story that touches my heart every time I read it. I share it with you, hoping you will be blessed, too.

There was a young woman who had been diagnosed with a terminal illness and had been given three months to live. So as she was getting her things in order, she contacted her pastor and had him come to her house to discuss certain aspects of her final wishes. She told him which songs she wanted sung at the service, what scriptures she would like read, and what outfit she wanted to be buried in.

Everything was in order and the pastor was preparing to leave when the young woman suddenly remembered something very important to her.

"There's one more thing," she said excitedly. 

"What's that?" came the pastor's reply.

"I want to be buried with a fork in my right hand," she told him.

The pastor stood looking at the young woman, not knowing quite what to say.

"That surprises you, doesn't it?" the young woman asked.

"Well, to be honest, I'm puzzled by the request," said the pastor.

The young woman explained. "My grandmother once told me a story that I never forgot and I have tried to pass along its message to those I love and those who are in need of encouragement. Here's her story:

"In all my years of attending church socials and potluck dinners, I always remember that when the dishes of the main course were being cleared, someone would inevitably lean over and say, 'Keep your fork.' It was my favorite part because I knew something better was coming . . . like velvety chocolate cake or deep-dish apple pie. Something wonderful and with substance!'

So, I just want people to see me there in that casket with a fork in my hand and I want them to wonder, "What's with the fork? Then I want you to tell them, "Keep your fork . . . the best is yet to come."

The pastor's eyes welled up with tears of joy as he hugged the young woman good-bye. He knew this would be one of the last times he would see her before her death. But he also knew that the young woman had a better grasp of heaven than he did. She had a better grasp of what heaven would be like than many people twice her age, with twice as much experience and knowledge. She KNEW that something better was coming.

At the funeral people were walking by the young woman's casket and they saw the pretty dress she was wearing and the fork placed in her right hand. Over and over, the pastor heard the question, "What's with the fork?" And over and over he smiled.

During his message, the pastor told the people of the conversation he had with the young woman shortly before she died. He also told them about the fork and about what it symbolized to her. The pastor told the people how he could not stop thinking about the fork and told them that they probably would not be able to stop thinking about it either. He was right.

So the next time you reach down for your fork, let it remind you ever so gently, that the best is yet to come.*

Beloved Savior, just knowing that You are waiting for me takes the sting out of death and puts joy in my heart. 

By Ann Shorb
©Copyright Ann Shorb, 2006

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John 14:2-3
In My Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

The Builder's Show is in town and people are going to get the newest and most appealing ideas in how to decorate and equip their homes. Each vendor claims to have the product that will make life easy, efficient or enjoyable. Gizmos and gadgets for plumbing, decorating, painting, and lighting - it's all there. Some of it is pretty amazing, and certainly would add comfort, beauty and intrigue to any home. Unfortunately, each item comes with a pretty hefty price tag!

In spite of all the creativity and uniqueness of the builders show, there is nothing there that can compare to the home our Savior is preparing for those of us who know Him. As I think of Heaven and all God has created for those that love Him, my mind is boggled and I can't even begin to picture it all. And the most amazing part about it all is that it's free to you and to me because Jesus already paid the price! His death on the cross was payment in full. No monthly payments, no installment plans, no mortgage. PAID IN FULL! It's a free gift for anyone who will take it. Have you accepted that gift? If not, God's offer is still good. For more information about how you can accept Christ as your Savior, please visit our website, www.ccesonline.com/4thingsgodwantsyoutoknow.htm, or contact us directly.

Almighty Creator and Maker of all things, viewing the vast beauty of the earth that You formed and fashioned is breathtaking. I can't begin to imagine what you have waiting for me in Heaven. Thank You for the hope of a home in Heaven with You.

By Ann Shorb
Copyright Ann Shorb, 2006

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I Corinthians 1:3
Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

As I put my key in the lock of the office door, I heard it. It so surprised me that I just stood there motionless enjoying the sound. The birds were singing! It's a song we haven't heard for a long time here in Pennsylvania and it's a welcome sign that spring is on the way. What a refreshing change after these last few months of cold, snow, and ice!

There have been a lot of changes in my life in recent months. In the last six months alone my son gave us a delightful new daughter-in-law, and my daughter and her husband presented us with a precious little granddaughter. A new counselor has come to our staff and another one will join us in a few weeks. Although I've had to say good-bye to a faithful co-worker of ten years, I am blessed to welcome a new secretary. These are positive changes, and things are really going quite smoothly right now, but I know that won't always be the case. And I know that at this very moment many of you are struggling with difficult changes in your life--changes you didn't ask for and certainly don't want.

I'm concerned about you, our readers. We have quite a few readers in Alabama and Arkansas, Florida and Georgia where there have been severe storms. Others are in the north where snow and ice have created havoc in your lives and schedules. Some of you, I know, are dealing with the loss of a job, an illness, an accident, or the death of a loved one. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you as you face these changes. If you'd care to send me an email prayer request, I'd be happy to pray specifically for your need. Just send it using our contact form.

Father, be gracious to my friends, even those whom I've never actually met, who are going through difficult times. Be their strength, their comfort and their peace. Supply their every need and help them to see Your hand at work on their behalf.

By Ann Shorb
Copyright Ann Shorb, 2006

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Exodus 33:14
And He said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.  

Just a few weeks after opening my private practice in counseling, it became obvious that I couldn't do this by myself -- at least not at the level that things were going.  So in March 1997, the Lord directed me in one of the best decisions for CCES that I've ever made.  I hired Cherie as a receptionist/secretary to enable me to do more counseling.  Later as her responsibilities grew, her title changed to Office Manager.

Over the years we ventured into a lot of new territory together!  We were confused and baffled at times, and discovered answers as we searched together.  We held seminars, workshops and teas, did many Bible studies, and worked with others to produce more than a dozen television shows.  We moved furniture, stripped wallpaper, painted, and decorated.  We watched our children grow up and celebrated graduations, weddings and births.  We sorrowed together at the death of loved ones.  We supported each other through surgeries, accidents and sicknesses.  We laughed together, prayed together, and cried together.  And through it all, we saw the faithfulness of God as we shared the joy of helping others.

Sadly, this is Cherie's last week at CCES.  As of March 5, she's moving to a new full-time job where she will continue serving others through a different organization.  So now it's time to say good-bye -- but not completely.  Cherie will remain a member of the CCES Prayer Board, and will be involved in our annual Christmas tea. 

So, Cherie, we pray God's blessing on you as you begin your new job.  May you find much joy in your new position and may you be the ray of sunshine in that office that you have been in ours.  God, bless you, my dear friend.  Rest well in the knowledge that His presence goes with you.  May you find His grace sufficient for your every need.                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

Gentle Shepherd, what a comfort to know that whatever changes we face, You walk beside us to guide, protect, and strengthen us.  Grant us all Your peace as we face the changes that each new day brings.

-- Ann Shorb

Copyright Ann Shorb, 2007

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Joshua 1:9
Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whitersoever thou goest.

Routinely, mindlessly I opened the lid and dropped the clothes in the washing machine, twisted the dial, and started the process. Never once did thoughts of what I was doing break through the clouds of worry that plagued me. How am I going to do that? It's more than I can handle. I'll never make it! Water filled the tub. I stood there motionless wondering, Is there any way to get out of it? What would happen if I just didn't do it? Then the back and forth swishing of water mingled with clothes and detergent broke through the voices of anxiety shouting at me.

Suddenly I realized the shade was still drawn and I was missing out on the beautiful February sunlight. I reached over and yanked the shade. As it rose, sunlight glimmered through the stained glass suncatcher hanging in the window and the words of scripture boldly confronted me.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart.
Prov. 3:5

Ah, yes, Lord, trust. I need to trust. I need to trust YOU. My head knows exactly what to do, but sometimes it's so hard for my heart to follow and to let go of the things that worry me. This is one of those times. Help me refocus and put things into perspective. I remember the words of one of your great servants who says, "It's not what you feel, it's what you know that counts."

So what do I know? I know that God is totally in control (Job 42:2). I know that He knows what is best (Job 23:10) and that His way is perfect (II Sam. 22:31). I know He will never leave or forsake me (Heb. 13:5). He promised to supply my every need (Psalm 23:1; Phil. 4:19). I know I can do all things through Christ (Phil 4:13) and that with Him nothing is impossible (Luke 1:37). I know that if I rely on Him, He will strengthen me and give me the courage, wisdom and protection that I need (Psalm 27). I know that He is all I need for every need (Psalm 23).

As the words of scripture flood my mind, I am reassured and the warmth of God's presence flows into my soul, just as the sunlight from outside flows through the suncatcher in my window. Fear fades and I am refreshed. I'm ready now to face today--and tomorrow.

Lord, thank You for putting a visual reminder in front of me. Help me always to rest in Your perfect love and find grace and strength to meet each new day and every fear and every trial.

By Ann Shorb
2/18/07 Issue

I John 1:9
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Isaiah 1:18
Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.

At this special Valentine's season, our thoughts turn to love and the ways in which we can show others that we care. Love is multi-faceted and there are thousands of ways that we can exhibit our love for another person. None, however, is more powerful than giving the gift of forgiveness to one who has hurt you or sinned against you. The story below demonstrates this powerful truth.

"There was a little boy visiting his grandparents on their farm. He was given a slingshot to play with out in the woods. He practiced in the woods, but he could never hit the target. Getting a little discouraged, he headed back for dinner. As he was walking back, he saw Grandma's pet duck. Just out of impulse, he let the slingshot fly, hit the duck square in the head, and killed it. He was shocked and grieved. In a panic, he hid the dead duck in the woodpile, only to see his sister watching. Sally had seen it all, but she said nothing.

"After lunch the next day Grandma said, 'Sally, let's wash the dishes.'

"But Sally said, 'Grandma, Johnny told me he wanted to help in the kitchen.' Then she whispered to him, 'Remember the duck?' So Johnny did the dishes.

"Later that day, Grandpa asked if the children wanted to go fishing and Grandma said, 'I'm sorry but I need Sally to help make supper.'

"Sally just smiled and said, 'Well that's alright because Johnny told me he wanted to help.' She whispered again, 'Remember the duck?' So Sally went fishing and Johnny stayed to help Grandma.

"After several days of Johnny doing both his chores and Sally's, he finally couldn't stand it any longer. He went to Grandma and confessed that he had killed the duck.

"Grandma knelt down, gave him a hug, and said, 'Sweetheart, I know. You see, I was standing at the window and I saw the whole thing, but because I love you, I forgave you. I was just wondering how long you would let Sally make a slave of you.' "*

Poor Johnny! He suffered needlessly. He let himself be held captive by his own failure to confess and seek forgiveness. Sadly, we do the same thing. No matter what you have done, or how you have failed, God knows. He was watching all the time, ready for you to come to Him and pour your doubts, fears, failures and sins before Him. My friend, don't run from Him, run to Him. God's love forgives and it will set you free.

Loving Father, thank You that although You see every detail of my life, You love me enough to forgive my offenses against You and against others. Help me to turn away from my sin, and run to your loving arms.

By Ann Shorb
Copyright Ann Shorb, 2006

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Ephesians 5:1-2, 8
Be ye therefore followers of God as dear children: and walk in love . . . walk as children of light.

John 13:15
I have given you an example that you should do as I have done unto you.

On Saturday I had the privilege of speaking for a mother-daughter brunch where the theme was Growing Little Women. Preparing for this topic forced me to do a good deal of thinking. How do you condense into 30 minutes what it takes to raise a little girl (or boy)? I finally concluded that there are three broad guidelines that encompass all the rest of the details that accomplish this task.

First, recognize that no two children are made alike. Each has her/his own unique physical, mental, emotional make-up. Trying to squeeze one child into the mold of another never works. You must teach, encourage, and discipline each one according to his/her individual uniqueness.

Second, realize that while each is a unique creation, all have the same basic needs. Physically they all must have food, clothing and shelter. Emotionally they all need to feel loved, valued and significant. Spiritually all children need the forgiveness of sins and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit to "grow" them, and these gifts come through Jesus Christ.

Finally, provide them with an example to follow. They learn best from what they see in your life. Be an example of honesty, integrity, self-discipline, morality. The best gift you can give any child is a good example to follow, because it will point them to Jesus - our supreme example.

Whether you're a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, teacher, helper, coach, neighbor, or friend, in one way or another, you influence the lives of children. Someone has said, "Children make up 19% of America's population, and 100% of our future." Be aware every day that children are growing around you!

Father, make me constantly aware that little eyes and ears are observing and are influenced by my life. Help me to walk as He walked, talk as He talked, live as He lived and love as He loved.

By Ann Shorb
Copyright Ann Shorb, 2007

Psalm 17:6
I have called upon Thee, for Thou wilt hear me, O God: incline Thine ear unto me and hear my speech.

She was interesting to watch. Twenty-something, and traveling alone, she sank into the black plastic chair in the dining area of the rest stop on the Indiana Turnpike, completely oblivious to the people around her. She appeared totally relaxed and at peace, her computer perched in a familiar pose atop her crossed legs, as her fingers flew across the keyboard.

The young lady typed rapidly for a few minutes, then stopped, her eyes never leaving the screen as she paused. A broad smile broke across her face as she read the words that appeared before her. Again and again she repeated the process. She was obviously communicating with someone on-line. Although that someone was unseen by the rest of us, the young lady was very much enjoying her connection with her friend. She really wasn't alone after all. How amazing this wireless connection is!

As I watched, I couldn't help thinking of the great "wireless connection" we have with God the Father. It's available to us 24/7 through Jesus Christ our Lord, and thankfully, there's never an interruption in service, never a place where we cannot connect. No matter where we travel, we're never really alone.

Thank You, Father, for sending Jesus Christ to provide us with a constant connection with You. I pray that the joy of our relationship and the time I spend with You will be evidenced by the smile on my face and the peace in my heart.

ByAnn Shorb

Copyright Ann Shorb, 2007