56. The heat and aroma from the oven on a cool early morning baking oatmeal/raisin/walnut cookies
57. Sunshine Spring Day - Solid Blue Sky - Absent of Any Clouds
58. Sunrise exposing shadows pointing to The LIGHT of a New Day
59. The warmth of a fresh hot towel straight from the dryer on a very cool morning.
60. Cooper, age 3 using the word beautiful to described the bluebonnet painting
61. The many sounds of my home.
62. The sound of a Quiet House.
63. The sound of my house full of family.
64. The Wisdom of God revealed to me.
65. The adventure and hunt to discover God exactly where I am in my everyday life.
66. God's Holy Presence in my house in the still of the night as I seek HIM.
67. The beauty of clear and vibrant colors in the lead crystal lamp from my childhood.
68. My camera that captures moments so my mind will not forget.
69. Cooper, 3 yr knows how to turn off and on a digital camera without any instructions.
70. Strip Paneling in my house that provides multiple symbols of the cross in disguise.
71. The beauty of the curves and lines of a wingback chair.
72. The reflections of light on the myraid tiny mirrors hung on the Christmas tree.
73. The Seasons of Life
74. The Season of the Year
75. Being Created by a Sovereign God and in the Image of God.
76. My heritage of faith
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Thursday, March 3, 2011
More Gifts from God exactly where I am today
27. Living in Texas
28. The faith and belief of a young child
29. The sun shine after an early foggy morning.
30. I can see to read
31. Communication through the internet.
32. Reading Blogs of Encouragement
33. Making new friends from the blogs I read and comment.
34. The heat and cooling system that works in my home.
35. The sounds of birds singing as I walk out my front door.
36. Time God created as Holy
37. Giving Thanks before a miracles happen.
38. I have my own transportation when I need it.
39. The ability to pay for gas in my car.
40. God's angels protecting me on the freeway.
41. The sunlight shining in room through the curtains
42. The humming quiet of the washer and dryer.
43. Business opportunities
44. Chris Tiegreen's Devotional Book "Worship the King"
45. The touch of a friend
46. Daily choices
47. Reading a good book
48. Gonzo, our dog barking when somebody comes near the house.
49. The joy of Cooper's laughter at age 3
50. Eating dinner with family prepared by Ryan.
51. Moonlight as bright as day.
52. The Glory of God in the setting sun
53. Signs of Spring
54. Blooming Tulip Trees
55. Cell phone communication
28. The faith and belief of a young child
29. The sun shine after an early foggy morning.
30. I can see to read
31. Communication through the internet.
32. Reading Blogs of Encouragement
33. Making new friends from the blogs I read and comment.
34. The heat and cooling system that works in my home.
35. The sounds of birds singing as I walk out my front door.
36. Time God created as Holy
37. Giving Thanks before a miracles happen.
38. I have my own transportation when I need it.
39. The ability to pay for gas in my car.
40. God's angels protecting me on the freeway.
41. The sunlight shining in room through the curtains
42. The humming quiet of the washer and dryer.
43. Business opportunities
44. Chris Tiegreen's Devotional Book "Worship the King"
45. The touch of a friend
46. Daily choices
47. Reading a good book
48. Gonzo, our dog barking when somebody comes near the house.
49. The joy of Cooper's laughter at age 3
50. Eating dinner with family prepared by Ryan.
51. Moonlight as bright as day.
52. The Glory of God in the setting sun
53. Signs of Spring
54. Blooming Tulip Trees
55. Cell phone communication
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Eucharisteo - Thanksgiving - Always precedes the miracle
I am so grateful for a new friend God brought in my life January of 2010. I met her through a mutual friend in Houston who attends my church. Ang had flown down from Michigan to stay with our friend Annette to attend the Siesta Scripture Memory Team Celebration of 2009. My friend with her guest Ang (who I had heard much about and even saw her blog) picked me up so I could attend this celebration. What a joy! Ang has become very dear to me as she is the one who gave me the name for this blog, Sylvia's Song.
To continue the story, my friends Annette and Ang introduced me to another blog, Holy Experience authored by a Canadian, Ann Voskamp. This is an amazing blog however this year I learned that Ann Voskamp is now an author of a brand new book entitled One Thousand Gifts "A Dare to LIVE FULLY Right Where You Are". I was intrigued with this book and knew it could be used as a book study on line however I had some other activities going and decided to wait to purchase my book.
Ang's birthday is Valentine's Day so on Sunday Night before Monday Valentine's Day I call to sing and wish Ang a Happy Birthday and in our conversation she learns that I have not purchased Ann Voskamp's book yet. Well, she insisted on gifting me with the book. After a brief discussion I finally realized I needed to receive her blessing of this book. I was amazed when the book was on my doorstep three days later.
Then while I was home sick last month, I began reading this amazing book. By the time I got to the third chapter I decided I had to start my list. This would be a hunt a.k.a adventure to discover God in my everyday moments. This list is in no specific order of importance or chronological time frame. Also I can repeat the same gift as many times as I feel the need since there are different layers to be thankful for. I don't need a fancy journal, just a small spiral that I can carry in my purse will do, however I already have a beautiful journal I received some time back and realized it was perfect for this discipline.
Taken from page. 32 of the book "One Thousand Gifts"
In the original language of the New Testament "he gave thanks" reads "eucharisteo."
The root word of eucharisteo is charis, meaning "grace," Jesus took the bread and saw it as grace and gave thanks. He took the bread and knew it to be gift and gave thanks.
But there is more, and I read it. Eucharisteo, thanksgiving, envelopes the Greek word for grace, charis. But it also hold its derivative, the Greek word chara, meaning "joy." Joy. Ah...yes. I might be needing me some of that. That might be what the quest for more is all about---that which Augustine claimed, "Without exception...all try their hardest to reach the same goal, that is joy."
I breathe deep, like a sojourner finally coming home. That has always been the goal of the fullest life---joy. And my life knew exactly how elusive that slippery three-letter word, joy, can be. I think of it then again, that night of nightmares, the flailing , frantic, moon-eyed lunge for more. More what? And this was it; I could tell how my whole being responded to that one word. I longed for more life, for more holy joy.
Now I begin my list to 1000 on line. The list for me to receive the miracles of God that evenutally will allow me to experience joy... more holy joy. I will begin with what I have already recorded in my Eucharisteo Journal. So when you see just a number and a word or phrase, maybe even a sentence you will know I am on the hunt for God in my everyday life exactly where I am. This discipline is life changing.
1. My friends
2. The fact that I can read
3. The fact that God loves me Just as I Am.
4. I can learn
5. I live in America
6. My neighborhood
7. My Bible
8. Prayer
9. The Healing Power of Jesus in my life
10. My husband, Les
11. My daughter, Vicki
12. My daughter, Valerie
13. Brandon and Vicki
14. Ryan and Valerie
15. My grandson, Micah
16. My granddaughter, Lauren
17. My grandson, Cooper
18. The freshness of a new born baby
19. Family
20. Sleep
21. My home on a cul-de-sac street
22. Living in a small city surrounded by Houston, TX
23. The warmth of the sun on a chilly day.
24. Soothing hot tea on a sore throat.
25. A quiet house.
26. Extended Family of Choice
To continue the story, my friends Annette and Ang introduced me to another blog, Holy Experience authored by a Canadian, Ann Voskamp. This is an amazing blog however this year I learned that Ann Voskamp is now an author of a brand new book entitled One Thousand Gifts "A Dare to LIVE FULLY Right Where You Are". I was intrigued with this book and knew it could be used as a book study on line however I had some other activities going and decided to wait to purchase my book.
Ang's birthday is Valentine's Day so on Sunday Night before Monday Valentine's Day I call to sing and wish Ang a Happy Birthday and in our conversation she learns that I have not purchased Ann Voskamp's book yet. Well, she insisted on gifting me with the book. After a brief discussion I finally realized I needed to receive her blessing of this book. I was amazed when the book was on my doorstep three days later.
Then while I was home sick last month, I began reading this amazing book. By the time I got to the third chapter I decided I had to start my list. This would be a hunt a.k.a adventure to discover God in my everyday moments. This list is in no specific order of importance or chronological time frame. Also I can repeat the same gift as many times as I feel the need since there are different layers to be thankful for. I don't need a fancy journal, just a small spiral that I can carry in my purse will do, however I already have a beautiful journal I received some time back and realized it was perfect for this discipline.
Taken from page. 32 of the book "One Thousand Gifts"
In the original language of the New Testament "he gave thanks" reads "eucharisteo."
The root word of eucharisteo is charis, meaning "grace," Jesus took the bread and saw it as grace and gave thanks. He took the bread and knew it to be gift and gave thanks.
But there is more, and I read it. Eucharisteo, thanksgiving, envelopes the Greek word for grace, charis. But it also hold its derivative, the Greek word chara, meaning "joy." Joy. Ah...yes. I might be needing me some of that. That might be what the quest for more is all about---that which Augustine claimed, "Without exception...all try their hardest to reach the same goal, that is joy."
I breathe deep, like a sojourner finally coming home. That has always been the goal of the fullest life---joy. And my life knew exactly how elusive that slippery three-letter word, joy, can be. I think of it then again, that night of nightmares, the flailing , frantic, moon-eyed lunge for more. More what? And this was it; I could tell how my whole being responded to that one word. I longed for more life, for more holy joy.
Now I begin my list to 1000 on line. The list for me to receive the miracles of God that evenutally will allow me to experience joy... more holy joy. I will begin with what I have already recorded in my Eucharisteo Journal. So when you see just a number and a word or phrase, maybe even a sentence you will know I am on the hunt for God in my everyday life exactly where I am. This discipline is life changing.
1. My friends
2. The fact that I can read
3. The fact that God loves me Just as I Am.
4. I can learn
5. I live in America
6. My neighborhood
7. My Bible
8. Prayer
9. The Healing Power of Jesus in my life
10. My husband, Les
11. My daughter, Vicki
12. My daughter, Valerie
13. Brandon and Vicki
14. Ryan and Valerie
15. My grandson, Micah
16. My granddaughter, Lauren
17. My grandson, Cooper
18. The freshness of a new born baby
19. Family
20. Sleep
21. My home on a cul-de-sac street
22. Living in a small city surrounded by Houston, TX
23. The warmth of the sun on a chilly day.
24. Soothing hot tea on a sore throat.
25. A quiet house.
26. Extended Family of Choice
March 1 - James 5:11 Scripture Memory
James 5:11 (NIV)
As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.
At Bible Study last night I was reminded that God continues to be the God He was and is and has always will be for me. God's LOVE and Compassion is everlasting. He is my God, My Creator and Maker of Heaven and Earth. God is my Strength and my Salvation. He is the God who heals my body when I am sick. He is the God who provides all my NEEDs. Not necessarily all my wants, there is a difference. He is my Shepherd and leads me along life's pathway. God created a plan for just my life and in Job 42:2 I know that you(the LORD) can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted. He is my God of Peace and Order. God is my Friend and Brother. My God is ALWAYS Faithful and True. God is my Heavenly Father. God is all that I have listed and so much more. Praise the Name of the Almighty God, Elohim. He is The God of Miracles I experience everyday whether I recognize it or not because God is a God full of compassion and mercy. Blessed is the Name of the LORD MOST HIGH, JESUS CHRIST MY LORD.
This is a Song I must Sing, of Praise to God for who He is yesterday, today, and forever more. Sylvia
As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.
At Bible Study last night I was reminded that God continues to be the God He was and is and has always will be for me. God's LOVE and Compassion is everlasting. He is my God, My Creator and Maker of Heaven and Earth. God is my Strength and my Salvation. He is the God who heals my body when I am sick. He is the God who provides all my NEEDs. Not necessarily all my wants, there is a difference. He is my Shepherd and leads me along life's pathway. God created a plan for just my life and in Job 42:2 I know that you(the LORD) can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted. He is my God of Peace and Order. God is my Friend and Brother. My God is ALWAYS Faithful and True. God is my Heavenly Father. God is all that I have listed and so much more. Praise the Name of the Almighty God, Elohim. He is The God of Miracles I experience everyday whether I recognize it or not because God is a God full of compassion and mercy. Blessed is the Name of the LORD MOST HIGH, JESUS CHRIST MY LORD.
This is a Song I must Sing, of Praise to God for who He is yesterday, today, and forever more. Sylvia
Friday, February 18, 2011
Lord I Run To You - Tommy Walker- Worship Video with lyrics
Tommy Walker says, Christians are not strong people, they just know who and where to run...straight to our Heavenly Father. He was going through a difficult period in his life and wrote this song to help him remember Psalm 121.
A few weeks ago the minister of music and chior at my church began to teach the congregation this song. I was pleased to find this on line to share with everyone.
This is a Song I must Sing, Sylvia
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
February 15, 2011 - Scripture Memory - James 2:12-13 with Testimony
“Speak and act as those who will be judged by a law that gives freedom. For judgment is merciless for the one who has shown no mercy. But mercy triumphs over judgment.” James 2:12-13
(The NET Bible)
I learned in 2010 to keep my Scripture Memory to only one verse. On Feb 1st vs. 12 was highlited, today v 13 is highlighted. Reading the book, The Heavenly Man the story of Chinese Christian Bro Yun by Paul Hattaway is where I first discovered this verse when I spotted the portion. Mercy Triumps over Judgement. As I read the story of Bro Yun and saw how he expressed his faith I was greatly encouraged in many areas. One of them was scripture memory for when the hard times come His Word will be embedded in my heart.
Last week I became ill with the flu/cold and after a doctor visit at the last minute made the decision not to go on a long awaited and planned for trip to Puerto Rico with my husband. The doctor gave me antibotic but not enough time before the plane left for me to get well enough to make the trip. This was a company trip where Les and I would receive an award for our hard work during the fall of 2010. I insisted that my husband go ahead with the trip plans to be able to go on stage and receive our award.
Prior to departing for this trip Houston has had freezing temperatures for the past two weeks. This is very unusual for this time of year. Then the day he leaves the sun comes out and the weather has been beautiful. It is like God telling me that though He kept me from being in Puerto Rico, He improved the weather in Houston that I might enjoy.
I am sad that I was unable make the trip and know that for my husband going without me has not been easy either. However I have learned during this time of being set apart that when I speak out loud the Names of God, His Presence seems to immediately become apparent. I praise His Name for the Power of God and just speaking the Names of God in my life today.
With my Sacrifice of Worship in missing the trip God has provided all my needs. Our daughter and her precious family came by early Saturday morning picked up Les and took him to the airport and left me breakfast. When speaking with a friend by phone on Friday insisted on preparing food for me to deliver on Saturday. God gave me the grace to accept as this friend is such a gourmet cook. Mid Saturday morning she arrived and set two bags just inside my front door and said that everything I need is in there with instructions. The soup she prepared has been healing for me and has lasted for three days.
Jesus is speaking in John 10:10 The Thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. Later in the day when I began to feel better and began to think about everything I knew I was missing and had looked so forward to was the enemey on my trail.
In God's amazing Grace and Mercy, several of God's angels called to encourage me and lift me up. Sunday morning I was able to go to church by the webcast and was so blessed to sing with the chior Psalm 121 and listen to my pastor teach from John 7 then talk about how Jesus is the only one that can bring true satisfaction in our lives. He continued on and spoke of nothing was wrong with him or his family but he was experiencing what he called a February Funk. I related. Then he began to speak out loud the names of God and God's glory over the internet came through to me in a mighty way. I pray God for the ways in which He leads me.
By Sunday noon, I finally felt well enough to shower and wash my hair and get dressed. Les has been wonderful to call, make video clips and stay in contact with me. Also many friends are praying and have called to check on me. This has been a most unusal experience but one ordained by God and I feel very blessed.
Les and I have spent Valentines Day in Houston, Hawaii and were suppose to spend it together in Puerto Rico. My man has made it special for me with his phone calls, videos and other friends continuing to pray and call and check on me. Jesus is the very best Valentine as His Love is the most unconditional of all. Praise the Name of Jesus.
The antibotic is working and each day I am getting stronger but staying out of crowds and spending time with The Maker of Heaven and Earth. As I close this blog post I am so thankful for reading Bro Yun's story to remind me how blessed I am. During this time my scripture Memory verses are sustaining me and most important is Psalm 121 thought I do not have the music it was set to that I am learning at church this is a Psalm I must sing to the LORD.
Psalm 121 (NIV) A song of ascents.
1 I lift up my eyes to the mountains--- where does my help come from?
2 My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot slip--- He who watches over you will not slumber;
4 indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The LORD watches over you---the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
6 the sun will not harm you by day, no the moon by night.
7 The LORD will keep you from all harm--- he will watch over your life;
8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
This is a Song I must Sing, Sylvia
(The NET Bible)
I learned in 2010 to keep my Scripture Memory to only one verse. On Feb 1st vs. 12 was highlited, today v 13 is highlighted. Reading the book, The Heavenly Man the story of Chinese Christian Bro Yun by Paul Hattaway is where I first discovered this verse when I spotted the portion. Mercy Triumps over Judgement. As I read the story of Bro Yun and saw how he expressed his faith I was greatly encouraged in many areas. One of them was scripture memory for when the hard times come His Word will be embedded in my heart.
Last week I became ill with the flu/cold and after a doctor visit at the last minute made the decision not to go on a long awaited and planned for trip to Puerto Rico with my husband. The doctor gave me antibotic but not enough time before the plane left for me to get well enough to make the trip. This was a company trip where Les and I would receive an award for our hard work during the fall of 2010. I insisted that my husband go ahead with the trip plans to be able to go on stage and receive our award.
Prior to departing for this trip Houston has had freezing temperatures for the past two weeks. This is very unusual for this time of year. Then the day he leaves the sun comes out and the weather has been beautiful. It is like God telling me that though He kept me from being in Puerto Rico, He improved the weather in Houston that I might enjoy.
I am sad that I was unable make the trip and know that for my husband going without me has not been easy either. However I have learned during this time of being set apart that when I speak out loud the Names of God, His Presence seems to immediately become apparent. I praise His Name for the Power of God and just speaking the Names of God in my life today.
With my Sacrifice of Worship in missing the trip God has provided all my needs. Our daughter and her precious family came by early Saturday morning picked up Les and took him to the airport and left me breakfast. When speaking with a friend by phone on Friday insisted on preparing food for me to deliver on Saturday. God gave me the grace to accept as this friend is such a gourmet cook. Mid Saturday morning she arrived and set two bags just inside my front door and said that everything I need is in there with instructions. The soup she prepared has been healing for me and has lasted for three days.
Jesus is speaking in John 10:10 The Thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. Later in the day when I began to feel better and began to think about everything I knew I was missing and had looked so forward to was the enemey on my trail.
In God's amazing Grace and Mercy, several of God's angels called to encourage me and lift me up. Sunday morning I was able to go to church by the webcast and was so blessed to sing with the chior Psalm 121 and listen to my pastor teach from John 7 then talk about how Jesus is the only one that can bring true satisfaction in our lives. He continued on and spoke of nothing was wrong with him or his family but he was experiencing what he called a February Funk. I related. Then he began to speak out loud the names of God and God's glory over the internet came through to me in a mighty way. I pray God for the ways in which He leads me.
By Sunday noon, I finally felt well enough to shower and wash my hair and get dressed. Les has been wonderful to call, make video clips and stay in contact with me. Also many friends are praying and have called to check on me. This has been a most unusal experience but one ordained by God and I feel very blessed.
Les and I have spent Valentines Day in Houston, Hawaii and were suppose to spend it together in Puerto Rico. My man has made it special for me with his phone calls, videos and other friends continuing to pray and call and check on me. Jesus is the very best Valentine as His Love is the most unconditional of all. Praise the Name of Jesus.
The antibotic is working and each day I am getting stronger but staying out of crowds and spending time with The Maker of Heaven and Earth. As I close this blog post I am so thankful for reading Bro Yun's story to remind me how blessed I am. During this time my scripture Memory verses are sustaining me and most important is Psalm 121 thought I do not have the music it was set to that I am learning at church this is a Psalm I must sing to the LORD.
Psalm 121 (NIV) A song of ascents.
1 I lift up my eyes to the mountains--- where does my help come from?
2 My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.
3 He will not let your foot slip--- He who watches over you will not slumber;
4 indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
5 The LORD watches over you---the LORD is your shade at your right hand;
6 the sun will not harm you by day, no the moon by night.
7 The LORD will keep you from all harm--- he will watch over your life;
8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.
This is a Song I must Sing, Sylvia
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
James 2:12 Feb 1st Scripture Memory
“Speak and act as those who will be judged by a law that gives freedom. For judgment is merciless for the one who has shown no mercy. But mercy triumphs over judgment.” James 2:12-13 The NET Bible
I learned in 2010 to keep my Scripture Memory to only one verse. So I will be posting and highlighting v 13 on Feb 15th. I read The Heavenly Man the story of Chinese Christian Bro Yun by Paul Hattaway where I first discovered this verse when I spotted the portion. Mercy Triumps over Judgement. As I read the story of Bro Yun and saw how he expressed his faith I was greatly encouraged in many areas. One of them was scripture memory for when the hard times come His Word will be embedded in my heart.
As I focus on verse 12 and see the word FREEDOM I realize the life of faith in Jesus Christ is the only place where TRUE FREEDOM abides. Praise the name of Jesus Christ and the blood He shed on the cross for me and all my sin. God came to earth in the form of man (Jesus) and lived a perfect life that though I am imperfect I have a role model to follow. Heaven is my eternal home. Hallelujah.
Heavenly Father Help me live today as I speak and act that will glorify your Holy Name. In Jesus name, Amen.
I learned in 2010 to keep my Scripture Memory to only one verse. So I will be posting and highlighting v 13 on Feb 15th. I read The Heavenly Man the story of Chinese Christian Bro Yun by Paul Hattaway where I first discovered this verse when I spotted the portion. Mercy Triumps over Judgement. As I read the story of Bro Yun and saw how he expressed his faith I was greatly encouraged in many areas. One of them was scripture memory for when the hard times come His Word will be embedded in my heart.
As I focus on verse 12 and see the word FREEDOM I realize the life of faith in Jesus Christ is the only place where TRUE FREEDOM abides. Praise the name of Jesus Christ and the blood He shed on the cross for me and all my sin. God came to earth in the form of man (Jesus) and lived a perfect life that though I am imperfect I have a role model to follow. Heaven is my eternal home. Hallelujah.
Heavenly Father Help me live today as I speak and act that will glorify your Holy Name. In Jesus name, Amen.
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