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On June 3rd 1997 Carl and I gave the first “Potter’s Message.” Using a potter’s wheel and a lump of clay we demonstrate how clay in the hands of the potter can be compared to our lives in the hands of God the Master Potter. The presentation is about God’s grace and transforming power and how God does not throw broken people away. In 2013 Carl had a massive stroke that affected the right side of his body. He was right handed but now has learned to use his left hand for everything. To our amazement God has enabled Carl to make bowls on the wheel using only one hand! We’re so thankful God has kept the door open to HIS amazing ministry.

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 2 Cor. 4:7

When I came across this picture of Carl taken many years ago at Ft. Campbell in Clarksville, TN, I got to thinking of how the boys and I have always felt protected by him. I remember how Carl kicked away a collie dog that was coming after me. I’ll never forget how he pulled down a runaway horse to its knees because our 8 year old son was on that horse. Even a stroke hasn’t stopped him from protecting me. He may not be able to kick a big dog away or pull a horse’s reins to bring the horse down, but regularly, and importantly he covers me in prayer. I’m so thankful for his service, but most of all I’m thankful for his persistent and loving prayers asking Jesus to protect me.

Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 1 Cor. 13:6-7

I didn’t know that a hummingbird can fly backwards and upside down too. That bird can propel its wings to fly in any position to get where it needs to go. That reminds me of the power of God’s Word that propels us upright when life feels upside down. And His Word encourages us to move forward and only glance backward to see how far we’ve come.

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105

As you can see in this picture Gracie loves to have a good time. Staring into the camera with her party hat on builds a strong case that she’s ready to do some celebrating. I like celebrations too. Heaven is the best place ever where there’s a lot of celebrating going on. People are having a good time in heaven and God doesn’t want anyone to miss what He has prepared for us. Everyone is invited, but be sure to RSVP to Jesus, the One True God.

“No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him.” 1 Cor. 2:9

Austin likes to begin his day on the beach watching God’s handiwork as the sun rises. This week he took this picture and texted me saying, “I prayed for encouragement, strength and wisdom…then I looked up.” Look closely, do you see what he saw that morning?

Glorify the LORD with me; let us exalt his name together. I sought the LORD, and he answered me. Psalm 34:3-4

Years ago for my birthday I was given a ride in a hot-air balloon. I remember the beautiful view and the quiet floating movement. But what I remember most was seeing below our van with Carl and the kids chasing after the balloon I was in. They were driving on unfamiliar roads, watching the direction of the balloon and anticipating my safe landing. That makes me think of how God pursues us. When we find ourselves on unfamiliar roads, God is with us. His Holy Spirit guides us in the right direction, and God graciously gives us Jesus, the one true Way to a safe landing.

I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1-2

This is Luna and Gracie. These two make me smile. As you can see in the picture they’re like close friends who enjoy being together. They have a good time playing, going on walks, and living the dream of going on family camping trips. Do you have a close friend? You can answer that question with a resounding Yes! You do have a Close Friend who is faithful, delights in you, sings over you, carries you, is always with you, and prays for you. His name is Jesus.

My intercessor is my friend as my eyes pour out tears to God; on behalf of a man he pleads with God as a man pleads for his friend. Job 16:20-21

If I got stung by a hornet, I would run as fast as I could away from the nest. Hornet stings rank high in pain. The severe pain that comes from that sting makes me think of how the sting of a tragedy can cause anguish and great suffering. If you find yourself stung by a tragedy and don’t understand why…don’t run away from God! Instead, run to Jesus. He doesn’t like the pain either and He understands your questions and sorrow.

The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18

The LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” Genesis 2:18

God sure did! He made a helper suitable for each son. These daughters in law are indeed a blessing to our family. Thank you Lord!

Has there ever been a time in your life when you felt knocked down by what life dished out? In those knocked down times it’s sure easy to temporarily forget the power of God. I don’t want to forget that the earth was created by the power of God’s words. And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. (Gen. 1:3) I sure don’t want to forget God’s power to raise people from the dead! But he took her by the hand and said, “My child, get up!” Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up. (Luke 8:54-55) God willingly wants to empower you, even in the knocked down times, by reassuring you that He created you, sees you, takes your hand, has compassion on you and whispers in your heart, “Get up! Move on. I’ve got this.”