Preparing the Soils

The great southern snow storm of 2011 has given me a little extra time this morning to make a couple of soil preparations.

First, the soil of my heart:

My Bible reading plan has me on Mark chapter 9, and this simple response from Jesus struck a chord.

Mark 9:29, "He replied, 'This kind can come out only by prayer'."
In context, the disciples were questioning why that had been unable to command a demon out of the boy- Jesus had to step in. In principle, what sin am I struggling with, what trial is threatening to overwhelm me, or what relationship is causing me to despair, that might only require prayer.

If you're like me I'd much rather be actively doing something or even trying to ignore it til it goes away. ANYTHING but the most logical: PRAY. Thank you Lord for that reminder!

Next, the soil for my seeds:

I have it on good authority, the United States Postal Service, that my annual seeds have left the Birmingham post office. Which means for me that today or tomorrow, I will receive my seed order. Now, I have thus far, in my short gardening experience, always started my seeds too late. For instance, I have a lot of little green pansies, none of which are blooming! I'm guessing they'll bloom about the time everyone else is planting their summer annuals :/! And of course there is the baby pie pumpkin that has finally ripened in the window - not quite in time for Thanksgiving....

So, if I'm going to err this time it will be on the 'too early' side of seed starting. I'm posting a few pics of my DIY seed starting method. As always, I've gathered my facts from GOOGLE and modified with what I have on hand. There is definitely a learning curve.

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year! The New Year is a time to begin new habits- or renew your commitments! I'm committing to faithfully be in the Word this year and to share with you what God is teaching me. What about you?

I also LOVE that we've started the new year off with Mark. I was overwhelmed by one of the most prolific verses in the Bible: Mar 1:15, "and saying, 'The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel'." That statement is just as true today, and it really should be our life verse!

I was also struck by the grace of God and His long-suffering. He patiently awaits the coming of sinners, while knowing exactly when they shall come. He endures the mocking of the world as He faithfully gives to Christ all He has chosen. He could make that, "every knee shall bow" thing come true today, or 100 years ago, or a thousand years ago. BUT GOD, is gracious and merciful allowing that universal invitation to remain open.

I'm committing to calling women to repentance this year. What about you? Do you REALLY have that saving faith in Christ. The gospel good news is that YOU ARE A SINNER, but that God loves you and wants to have fellowship with you so much that He allowed Christ to bear the penalty of your sin. Will you confess your need for a savior today and believe that Christ died for your sins. Only God need know your answer!

Here's to the beginning if a new year, new opportunities to worship, praise, serve, and grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ! Cheers (she raises the cup of coffee)!