Wednesday, June 10, 2009

WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT

Our Sweet Sister Loretto is holding my devotional:


The Blessedness of Believing


A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises.


This devotional gift was given to Sister Loretto during our visit with her in May 2009.





As God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

Colossians 3:12



It was quite a blessing to receive an email from my Oblate Sister friend: Sister Lorraine. Her note blessed my soul, and motivated me to continue on my inspirational literary journey! I thought why not share? I pray you'll be further encouraged in your anointing to learn and support endeavors that glorify God and take you beyond your customary circles. The Oblate Sisters of Providence are indeed in service for our Lord Jesus Christ and doing extrordinary work! I am thankful for their example of loving service.




"Hi Linda,

Excuse my delay in getting in touch with you.
Since you left, Sr. Constance and I have been very busy with the events that come with the season of Spring. Many groups have come to use our
facilities for their activities. Sister and I help with the preparation
and the clean up. So, this time of the year is extremely busy. I am
letting you know this because I do not want you to think I have forgotten
you. Your presence as you touch other people is not a forgotten one and it demand joyful remembrance. ( smile.)

I view your blog and all that you wrote about the Oblate Sisters. Thank you for your time and kindness in doing that. I like your blog very much. Keep expressing the Spirit of Christ's living in your writing. It is a ministry so needed.

Sr. Loretto is doing fine.

Peace and many
Prayers,

Sister Lorraine
Tue 6/2/2009 2:53 PM "



Wonderful women of God!
Sister Lorraine and Sister Constance

So you see my friends, the words that we speak, the words that spill out of our hearts, the words we convey to each other and write are divinely purposed to build us up and encourage us to be vigilant in our ministries. Keep spreading those exuberant words of encouragement!



Marveling at God's Goodness,
Linda Mose Meadows, Author
The Blesssedness of Believing
A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

Sunday, June 7, 2009

BLOGGING WOMEN - JUNE 2009 WINNER!

Beautiful !

Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

~I Coronthians 10:31




This is a month for many wonderful firsts for me; one of which is my being selected as an Inspirational Columnist for Urban Views Weekly and now I've just learned that recently my blogg: The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises has been selected as one of several winners for June 2009 on :



A manually edited comprehensive directory of
some of the best blogs written by women




Once again, I am counting it all joy that the content of my blog is fresh and relevant for our times! I am honored. I know that it's Holy Ghost inspired. I wish to keep listening for God's voice through scripture,wonderful lyrics/music, my daily encounters and life's lessons. I have no doubt that there's a message of hope for all of us-especially in the midst of a struggle. I endeavor to express that sentiment and swallow my own medicine. Sometimes I just don't care for the taste. We'll encourage each other and keep holding up the banner of faith. Friends there is a blessing in believing!




Thank you Lord for enriching our lives, we take nothing for granted!




In Joyful Service,

Linda Mose Meadows, Author

The Blesssedness of Believing

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



Thursday, June 4, 2009

EXTRA! EXTRA ! READ ALL ABOUT IT, AN ANSWER TO PRAYER!

Urban Views Weekly is available to you!
URBAN VIEWS WEEKLY-A FRESH NEW LOOK INTO OUR COMMUNITY!
" God will fill your mouth with laughter
and
your lips with shouts of joy."

Job 8:21



Hi Everybody-


I wanted to share my good news regarding my being selected as one of the newest Inspirational Columnist in the Urban Views Weekly. It's just in my spirit to celebrate and speak, no sing and shout: "Extra, Extra read all about it!"





Read all about what you ask? More inspiration and enlightenment of course! More opporunities to spread joy, speak life and share heartfelt sentiments to encourage us not to loose heart in the struggles of our lives! I thank the Lord for my friend Linda Pate who was obedient to what the Holy Spirit placed in her heart. It started with dinner and a question: "Have you ever considered writing for a newspaper?" I'd been praying for an opportunity to make a greater impact and to further work God's plan for my life. I've been waiting, hoping not really knowing the direction, nor the time a door would open on my behalf. The blessed door of opportunity was wider than I could have imagined! So you see friends, I consider my selection as a Columnist, a real honor and an divine orchastration. It's without a doubt an answer to prayer. Ricky calls them ATP's!
My desire started with a prayer. What are you beleiving god for?
Keep trusting, keep praying friends! God's got so much in store for you!
I hope you'll consider subscribing (it's free) and becoming a part of the Urban Views Weekly family of readers. This newspaper is providing a wealth of wonderful information to enhance and enrich our spheres. And yes I'm pleased to be a contributor and a part of that endeavor. In the event you don't see the orange mail boxes containing the newspapers in your community, simply go on-line for your weekly e-paper.

When signing- up visit:




or

http://urbanviewsweekly.va.newsmemory.com/eebrowser/frame/3_0kp/init/def_frames.php?pSetup=urbanviewsweekly&acctpg=1



on the UVW digital. Enjoy and relish the thought that if you haven't already mentioned unsuspecting blessings-soon you too will be sharing your good news and shouting: "Extra! Extra! Come and see what marvelous things our benevolent Heavenly Father has done on my behalf ! "



Surely God's grace has been bestowed upon us. Shout your testimony, we're joyously anticipating !



With A Greatful Heart!
Linda Meadows, Author
The Blessedness of Believing
A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

Monday, June 1, 2009

JOYFUL ENCOUNTERS

A shining moment for me:
visiting my dear friend, David and his family!


David, Jackie and their brilliant rock stars !
A beautiful family!


“At times our own light goes out and is rekindled
by a spark from another person.
Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude
of those who have lighted the flame within us.”
—Albert Schweitzer (1875-1965); theologian, philosopher, physician

As I reflect on the weekend before last, it was no ordinary Memorial Day Weekend. I have a heart of thanksgiving for all that my ears heard, my eyes witnessed and my heart contained. We found ourselves in Baltimore, Maryland covering lots of territory. The agenda was to attend my favorite artist’s Open House, see my beloved friend from my Bennett High School days and wrap up with a visit to see Sister Lorretto at the convent. This was a truly rewarding and memorable weekend. We weren't let down, for a moment it felt like a true vacation!



Celebrating the opportunity to visit with my high school friend, David and his family was an unforgettable treasure! The memories, great fish fry, the surprise appearance of our Bennett High School yearbook and laughter were an elixir! Friends the opportunity to reconnect with a dear friend and his precious loved ones really blessed our souls. They were so gracious and kind. It felt like a family reunion. David reminded me that we last time we visited each other was in 1979. I was on my way to grad school, he'd be starting college. Soon his career was being jumpstarted in news and broadcasting. It's 2009, this is certainly evident that time is fleeting! I’ll surely have to share a post about the importance of staying connected and reaching out to those that have impacted our life for the better. We can celebrate God's faithfulness over our life's journey.

Friends, I contend it’s a must do in our lives. Consider reaching out to some positive friends from the past, you’ll be surprised at how revived you feel. David and I shared that it’s probable that there are more days behind us, then ahead. But, indeed we’ve got lots of living yet to do.






My favorite artist: Larry Ponch Brown



A family pose with Poncho!



In a word-exceptionable! That’s who Larry Poncho Brown is. There were missed opportunities in the past to attend Larry Poncho Brown’s Open Houses, but thank goodness not this occasion. My husband navigated our way and before long we were in Poncho's studio eating up the goodies and marveling at his creations! Wow, what an amazing artisan! His work defies labeling! Yes, I am truly a fan. Friends, kindly visit his virtual site to wet your artistic loving taste buds. You can acquire his work online to add to your collections. If you have the opportunity to stop by his gallery once, you’ll go back again and again. He’ll graciously receive you! Maybe we'll bump into each other at the next event?



Sister Lorraine (Educational Director) & Sister Constance (Archivist)

"On July 2, 1829 the Oblate Sisters of Providence was founded by Mother Mary Lange, OSP, and Rev. James Nicholas Joubert, SS as the first congregation of women religious of African descent. This was the beginning of a legacy that has thrived over the past 179 years in 25 cities in the United States, Cuba, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic and most recently Africa. "

Cousin/ Sister Loretto and my Sweetie Ricky!



Finally, meet this remarkable order of The Oblate Sisters Of Providence. They are a unique order of nuns that are of African descent. They’ve unselfishly dedicated their lives to spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ, providing solid educational opportunities and enriching the lives of those in impoverished communities in the United States and abroad for over 179 years.



Visit their website to learn of their spiritually enriching heritage. They've accomplished much and touched many lives. As we visited and worshipped with Sister Loretto, (our cousin), I had the distinct pleasure of meeting several more remarkable Sisters: Sister Constance and Sister Lorraine. They were warm, hospitable and genuinely joyful. I remarked that I had observed their joy.
Sister Constance smiled and replied, “Why not?” This made me chuckle and before long , we were discussing computers, education, my blog and how I'd enjoy sharing their heartfelt misssion with others.
It really touched my heart that they were so dedicated to their call, loved sharing their interests, and graciously spoke about their collective future endeavors (i.e. OSP Brick Drive for constructing addition living quarters for the sick and aging Sisters, they wish to increase the number of Friends and Volunteer Recruits, are actively seeking Support of the Lay Association, praying for the Canonization of Mother Mary Lange (founder), enhancing the educational wing for the children and maintaining the historical archives)-it was a blessing to be in their presence.
I pray your interest will be peaked regarding The Oblate Sisters of Providence; you’ll embrace their mission and get on board with them by providing your gifts and support where help is needed. I am partnering with them and hope my endeavors will make an impact. Love to all of the Sisters!



May God continue to keep David and his family, Brother Poncho and the Oblate Sisters in His perfect will.




Friends, I relish and celebrate these joyful encounters with you all.
I Pray that:


Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance.
Jude 2


From My Heart to Yours!
Linda Mose Meadows, Author

The Blessedness of Believing A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

A HEART TO LOVE THEE


Love covers over all wrongs.

Proverbs 10:12



“Lord help me to have more compassion for others
and
not to only to be tolerant of some and
distant with others
but, to be loving
and
kind especially to those I have a struggle with.”



That’s what's resonating in my spirit this afternoon friends. God knew that and blessed me with several e-messages.
Beliefnet has a very unique site which shares electronically empowering affirmations for your spiritual journeys, inclusive of a Prayer a Day. These prayers are timely!
I know it's no coincidence, receiving a word in season!.
I am sure your concur, the Holy Spirit speaks and addresses our heart's concerns? You are invited to also receive these spiritual nuggets, it’s yours for the asking. Simply visit the site and sign up for some very uplifting, edifying, reassuring and encouraging words (no matter your spiritual or religious beliefs). These words of wisdom and expressed love will cause you to wonder if the writers of these pieces hadn’t peaked into your thoughts or overheard your private conversations. Much of what is shared is divinely imparted, that I am convinced of. Here’s one such prayer that has spoken to my need and request:




A Heart to Love Thee

O Lord, who hast mercy upon all, take away from me my sins, and mercifully kindle in me the fire of thy Holy Spirit.Take away from me the heart of stone,and give me a heart of flesh,a heart to love and adore thee,a heart to delight in thee,to follow and to enjoy thee, for Christ's sake.

- Ambrose of Milan (c. 339-97)

Friends, I trust you too may have a prayer regarding ( you fill in the blank) and really need the strength to love through it all? Let me encourage you, don't become faint; stay strong-keep seeking and trusting, God will speak!





With Joy In Sharing,
Linda Mose Meadows, Author
The Blessedness of Believing
A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises
(Tate Publishing, Nov. 2007)
http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

Monday, May 25, 2009

IT'S MEMORIAL DAY: HONORING OUR FALLEN & VALIANT SOLDIERS




The Lord says,
"I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me."
Isaiah 49:16

It’s Memorial Day friends and many of us are enjoying picnics, sunning on the beaches, gearing up for the local concerts or just glad that it’s a day away from the daily work grind. The barbeque grills are smoking in our yards with our favorite cuts of meats and lest we not forget those yummy burgers and hot dogs with mutiple salads. But I believe the heart and soul of the day shouldn't be overshadowed with just our picnics. Oh, please don't get me wrong? I do really love the festivities, family and friend's gatherings. But there is great significance in this day! Those that are connected to loved ones in the military truly understand the heartbreak of lossing a loved one serving in the military.
There are many that choose to commemorate Memorial Day in a variety of ways including attending memorial services in a collective manner or with others assembled in sacred gatherings adorning burial sites with flowers, wreathes and plaques honoring the soldiers valor. All of these jestures are in memory of their beloved who’ve died valiantly while serving their country in the United States armed services. I too wish to join in with them as this nation salutes these men and women, who are sons, daughters, mothers, and fathers that gave their lives upholding the democracy of these United States of America.




Here are two very touching accounts from Today MSNBC that honor the lives of these brave individuals. Thank you for visually bringing the point home today of the necessity to celebrate our fallen soldiers. May we never forget them and their precious sacrifice.


Grief Unites Fallen Soldiers' Mothers




Shared in Love,


Linda Mose Meadows, Author


The Blessedness of Believing


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

http://blessednessofbelieving.blogspot.com/

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

WAY UP: REMEMBERING WAYMAN TISDALE

You're welcome to sign Wayman's Guest Book at his official site.



Born: June 9, 1964(1964-06-09)Fort Worth, Texas, USA
Died: May 15, 2009 (aged 44)
Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA

You can never give up because quitting is not an option. No matter how dark it is or how weak you get, until you take that last breath, you must fight.
--Wayman Tisdale


http://www.waymantisdale.com/








http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/columns/story?page=tisdale-081203
Wayman Tisdale Remembered-Tisdale reaches for his biggest rebound


It’s evident from the many well wishers that the world renowned and accomplished jazz bassist Wayman Tisdale made a huge impression not only on the basketball courts, during his youth and then on his jazz curcuit; but with all those that he came into contact with. He had so much compassion that after he had his leg amputated, he realized that there were those not able to afford the prosthetic devices and created a foundation to help lift their financial strain. I am assured from the articles and videos I've viewed that his was a fun loving heart. Surely there's a void that his family and friends now must battle through. My love goes out to them and the numerous other jazz fans that are in mourning.



This world certainly benefited from his creativity and contagious joy. When he spoke and he smiled -not many folks do that anymore. He enjoyed his Sooner’s College and NBA basketball career. But he really cherished "his first love": music! His musical career spans the globe with the many star studded legends he share jazz festival venues with. Like the title of his CD, he too was Way Up there not only in stature but with his musical genius! He ran with the “big dogs” of contemporary jazz. His reverence and sincere humility caused him to be in awe and appreciation of many of these celebrated jazz greats. Truly he was an accomplished musician that taught himself to play bass. Take a fond look at his WAY UP youtube video and marvel at this legend!



Wayman Tisdale and Jonathan Butler

(from Athlone, Cape Town, South Africa) who is a singer-songwriter and guitarist

are sharing in a happy moment!

He was challeneged with cancer but never conceded to the disease. His battle concluded on May 15th, 2009. I am confident that his soul is in heaven and that his musical impact on the world will be appreciated for decades to come. "Mr. Smooth Jazz" Waymon Tisdale- is now participating in the sweetest melodies in heaven. Yes my friends, he's way up there! We thank God for your outstanding life Wayman! Bravo to you for encouraging us to hold our heads up high. You've made an indelible imprint on the world!



If you desire to learn more about this extraordinary man and/or support the Wayman Tisdale Foundation which raises funds to assist amputees with the prosthetic process, which may not be covered by health insurance be sure to visit his foundation web site (simply click on his name).
With Joy In Sharing,
Linda Mose Meadows, Author
The Blessedness of Believing
A Devotional Journey of Life's Lessons and God's Promises (Tate Publishing, Nov. 2007)

You’ve Got A Friend

  One of my favorite  songs is: “You’ve Got A Friend (originally by Carole King with Roberta Flack ) This song came rushing to my mind as I ...