TIME TO LOOK UP! BUCKLE UP! IT’S 2014!

National Anthem, by Jonathan Gladding 

Ever have the phone ring and the person on the other end was the friend you were fondly thinking of?  This morning that was the case! We laughed, giggled and then concurred that our relocation to Connecticut was indeed a good thing. It was apparent that God had once again orchestrated it all. All being inclusive of our move from Florida, the East Coast ministry trek, the new friendships (never negating the cord connecting us to our tried and true friends), the laudable community partnerships, our abounding appreciation and enthusiasm for love, life and what seems like some fatal challenges. Literally it felt like doors were slammed in our face when I thought we’d instead be embraced. Too many days it felt like a bad dream. Good decisions seemed to have gone awry. Prayer has keeping power friends. When yours seem limp, other’s who know the virtue and power of prayer can certainly cover you!

“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” Genesis 50:20

I am grateful for how God allowed us to exert energy in preparation for our next level. It was as though we were spiritually matriculating. My heart must have been yelling, “New level, new level! So glad it’s our turn Lord!” Oh it’s no denying that we better not take credit for a step up or a door open. We are not that clever in raining down blessings! None of our life's story could have been self imposed-crafted with our intellect or maneuvers.

We were approaching the 2013 Christmas season-Richard and I were traveling (several weeks ago) on the freeway. I was joyously anticipating visiting my Mama and Grandmother in Atlanta (really overdue for a visit). I knew I could not be there for Christmas but wanted to begin creating a festive atmosphere in their home. And then there was a hiccup, a startling interruption. The visible highway markers and signs indicated that Hartford’s Bradley Airport was just down the road, possibly 20 minutes away and I’d be boarding the plane momentarily.  And boom, a car wreck-a wreck that was startling! It caused us to fear, shutter, scream, and wonder if this was our end, dying on the interstate. The result totaled our minivan and the offender’s compact car.  The small Volkswagen merging in the lane we traveled was all wrong! I don’t know what the driver’s problem was but it was terrible timing! And then it all became surreal, a seemingly slow motion video. The cars colliding, the metal crumpling, the axles braking, the front end torn up, the shock, the disbelief and there we were in the midst! But, Great God the three coiled guard rails sustained the impact of our van! It seems we bounced against the sturdy coils and Richard’s hands held tight to the steering wheel. And the saving grace was the coils appeared to nestle the Volkswagen from diving into the ditch or back into the oncoming traffic. Oh it could have been fatal with the loss of life or injuries, but here we are on this side of a new year, January 2014 alive-well! No broken bones, no fatalities!

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11 NIV

Yes, mayhem occurred and we survived it all! God kept us! What a miracle.

Often our lives reflect that we've been banged up, crippled even. Folks think you’re in a daze still suffering from shock. Oh, but our gracious Lord and Savior allows us to survive an atrocity, a humiliation, a setback causing us to feel as though we’re abandoned, standing on the side of the road. Be confident that divine  help is on the way, even if it’s unsuspecting.

Next time you’re on life’s highway think of the coiled guard rails, the helping hands, sound advice, friendly stranger, the answer to prayer as a safety net! Think of it as a safety net representing the Father, Son and Holy Ghost-protecting us, cushioning the blow during startling incidences. Notice I did not say ACCIDENT? Our Heavenly Father causes no accidents, but saves us on countless occasions. I know you recall His rescuing mission, you! Take a moment and just reflect on your 2013 journey, incredible right? We are now very familiar, well acquainted with the realization that God’s mighty outstretched arm protects us!  Thankfully He beautifully ushers us from one season into the next. The year 2013 brought about new developments, uncertainties, new transitions, new relationships, but definitely a firsthand account of His love! Can I get a witness?

Breathe, look up and live. Buckle up friends it’s time for thanksgiving adoration and without a doubt it's time to embrace a faith filled 2014! Happy New Year!

“I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, ¹⁷ so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love,¹⁸ may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ,” Ephesians 3:16-18 (NIV)

Transformed by the Love of God, Linda Mose Meadows; Blogger, Motivational Speaker and Inspirational Author of: Destined To Receive: Reflections and Devotionals Celebrating The Love of God (Createspace, 2013) and Blessedness of Believing  A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises (Tate Publishing, 2007) 

 http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

 http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/

 http://eyesoffaithmagazine.blogspot.com/   

IT'S GOOD TO BE HOME!

Rickey greeting the Moving Van in New Haven

'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.' Jeremiah 29:11

July 1^st we happily became residents of New Haven, Connecticut. Once my husband accepted a new ministry assignment as the 17^th Rector of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church it seemed as though time had slowed down and we’d never get to our desired destination from Florida to the northeast “New England”. So many blessings, prophetic encouragements and prayers were sandwiched together; it was no doubt that we were headed in an amazing direction. We’d known the hard knocks-was well acquainted with ministry hurdles, understood the signals, experienced the many past life lessons, endured much and was once again extremely thankful for the divine progression.  Oh to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living! As I’ve heard it said and do enjoy repeating it also: “For real, for real!” moving to Connecticut was another Jeremiah 29:11 confirmation!

'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.' Jeremiah 29:11

We acknowledged that we were not only transitioning regionally, but mentally and spiritually to a new place in our lives, a place we’d never frequented.  But never the less it was HOME! And, yes it’s refreshing!

Joy erupted as we eagerly embraced the realization that it was time to head north “back home”.   Back home to the changing seasons of the northeast and a familiar urbane social and cultural terrain. Oh friends it was time! I am sure that my soul acknowledged that. “Yes, it is time to experience God anew.”

And of course we arrived in New England before our belongings and daily counted down the days when our truck load of furnishings would arrive. The house had an empty hollow “house echoing sound” and that was very distracting. After 2 weeks it struck me how we had adapted to having fewer material possessions. It was a new rhythm. As is said, “We didn’t miss a beat!” We gleefully sat at the kitchen bar to eat our meals, smiling and had fun jockeying for the thrift store treasure of the chair with matching ottoman. If I wanted to languish outdoors I’d sit on the comfy furnishings on the backyard deck. And in that time our focus shifted from our stuff to learning about our “new” New England surroundings, becoming acquainted with members of the church, learning about the active ministry events, connecting with neighbors and making friends. And when the moving van finally did arrive I realized that we could make it with fewer treasures unpacked.  Exhaling, I acknowledged that there was no need to open each and every box and/or hang our entire art collection. Our focus and ministry direction has shifted beautifully! Once again God has done exceedingly more than we could imagine. Hearts are receptive and the anointed works are blossoming. The past month’s activities have reflected unspeakable joy which is captured in the photos below. There is a joy that is assured that God has planted us here because..." our desires are in agreement with His thoughts for us." 1 John 5:15.

Joy is spilling over because it's good to be home…..

I’ve begun to weekly volunteer at St. Luke’s Clothes Closet. I look forward to being there. Truly the selecting, folding, sorting and arranging puts a smile on my face and lifts my spirit when the community comes for free clothing and household items. I eagerly greet and interact with them and sometimes help them with hunting for particular items. Often a conversation ensues and I realize they are in need of much more than the tangible. A word from the Lord often brings an assurance and a relief that they’ve come to the right place. As they search for items God is extending a helping hand through our volunteer services. On one particular day, I noticed a little girl “helping” her Mommy shop and I discovered a pink jacket asked her Mommy if she could have it and the child’s expression was absolutely precious! Permission was granted for me to share and photograph this blessed moment. I trust you are also smiling! Joy is contagious!

  

The doors of the church are open! St. Luke's Services is indeed a beacon of hope in our community-lifting, feeding, edifying loving and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I’d like to think that ministry is an action word!

Our beloved and devoted parishioner Edward F. Mapp, Business Manager of St. Luke's Steel Band has music in his heart! St. Luke’s Steel Band ministers throughout New England and the surrounding states! These stellar musicians bring tremendous  joy wherever they travel and perform.

Morning Glory! Breakfast partners: the Community Soup Kitchen and St. Luke's Episcopal Church serving our guests-the children of God of course! It’s a meal that is certainly appreciated!

Partnering with the community for creative fun and cultural ministry opportunities is another demonstration of God at work. He gives us the energy, creativity and our heart’s desire and before long paths are crossed and the fruit of partnerships beautifully blossom (i.e. St. Luke’s parishioners, Shop & Save, New Haven Dept. Of Recreation, Yale Health Systems, Anthony Thompson, The Diaper Bank, Fish, New Haven Free Public Library Stetson Branch, Hon. Jacqueline James, Alderwoman Ward 3, Yale University’s Dwight Hall tutors) with far reaching effects. I realize this is just the start of good things to come! St. Luke’s ministry bounty and community outreach is truly growing! And clearly God is touching hearts and directing our path!

I am sure you agree that it’s a wonderful season where faith is abounding, joy has erupted and we can’t help but, smile! Thank you Lord for all you are doing!

Pastor Richard Meadows and Linda Mose Meadows, Inspirational Author

Shared in Love, Linda Mose Meadows; Blogger, Motivational Speaker and Inspirational Author of: Destined To Receive: Reflections and Devotionals Celebrating The Love of God (Createspace, 2013) and Blessedness of Believing  A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises (Tate Publishing, 2007) 

 http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

 http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/

 http://eyesoffaithmagazine.blogspot.com/

GOD HAS A PLAN FOR YOU! BLESSINGS TO OUR BELOVED MEN: A FATHER'S DAY TRIBUTE!

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness”
(2 Timothy 3:16-17)

'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'

Jeremiah 29:11

Happy Father’s Day to all of the brothers, uncles, stepfathers, adopted Big Daddies and super fathers. You are our beloved men both young and old-standing in the gap for us: your children, loved ones and many others that depend and count on you!

Priceless is what you are! We cherish your loving guidance, coaching, strong silence, active participation, unique discipline, direction, no nonsense demeanor, humor, finances and constant prayers. Because God has fashioned you, we are confidently assured! There’s assurance that you’ll share your heart and be there to celebrate our accomplishments.

Thank you for providing the needed support and love on those countless occasions…Yes, we know without a doubt that you like our Heavenly Father are a present help! Take a look in the mirror and confidently realize that you are an awesome help especially when we are experiencing hardships, moments of being left out in the rain, waiting in the corridors confused, perplexed, and seemingly abandoned.

Like the countless nights you patiently sat between the door and the phone anticipating our return home; greeting us with a firm scolding.

When you gave your last few dollars, knowing full well a paycheck was weeks away;

When you told us so and reminded us that you weren’t surprised with the outcome;

When you planted that kissed on our foreheads, hugged our shoulders and encouraged us to be calm and not utter a word;

When we made that dreaded phone call and got a surprising conversation that changed our outlook and lifted our spirits;

When you sat on the floor with the other parents as we served you Peanut Stew and recited our poems;

When we felt embarrassed by your school visit, but later appreciated how you demonstrated your concern by your active involvement.

Oh the gratitude list grows moment by moment. You are doing an exemplary job! Thank you for being a steady stream, an anchor and our strength! We praise God for your wonderful presence. May you continue to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit! Remember God has a plan for you, the Holy Scripture says so!

Enjoy your day and this virtual gift of this TD Jakes video. We love you truly, Happy Father’s Day!

TD Jakes Music Video"God Has a Plan for you"

Sharing With Great Joy,

Linda Mose Meadows, Urban Views Weekly & Empower Magazine Columnist and Inspirational Author of: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life’s Lessons and God’s Promises and Co-publisher of Eyes of Faith Magazine

http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/

http://eyesoffaithmagazine.blogspot.com/

SHARING A WONDERFUL “WOW MOMENT": PUBLISHED IN THE INTERNATION REVIEW OF AFRICAN AMERICAN ART!

http://museum.hamptonu.edu/store/

for subcription and art information visit :

THE INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF AFRICAN AMERICAN ART

VOL. 23: NO. 1

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD,

"plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Jeremiah 29:11

New International Version (NIV)

Author, Linda Mose Meadows and son, Michael

Celebrating a "WOW Moment" on Youtube

Keep believing friends in unexpected blessings and brighter days on our horizons! This is no cliché, God does have great things in store for you and me. My YouTube video is a good news report; it’s my creative way of sharing my recent personal "wow moment"!

This “wow moment” is about my literary contribution and it being published in The International Review of African American Art Volume 23, No. 1, 2010 edition. My article is entitled: "Superior to Circumstance – The Splendor Within," an "Art, Body and Soul" column on visually-impaired sculptor Chappelle Letman, pg 41. Mr. Letman is an incredible artist and human being with resilient faith!

The icing on the cake was learning that my son, Michael is also sharing this testimony of how God will honor your heart's desires. He's a newly published journalist and has written about the renowned artist Samella Lewis. His column is entitled: Samella Lewis Visits The HU Museum pg. 50. The International Review of African American Art Volume 23, No. 1 2010 Editor, Juliette Harris chose to place our columns in the same publication. Now that’s clearly how God orchestrates his blessings! He provides us with a universal testimony.

Art by Samella Lewis

I hope this news encourages you to stay the course and continue on your journeys, assured that God knows the plans He has for each of us, "plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11.

For the bible and our celebratory moments tells us so!

Expressing Thanksgiving & Joy!

Linda Mose Meadows, Author & Inspirational Columnist:

The Blessedness of Believing

A Devotional Journey of Life’s Lessons and God’s Promises

http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/
http://blessedauthorlm.wordpress.com/