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Hello Everyone, I would love to share something special with you. We have a Friday Feature every Friday on the Christian Women's Fellowship group on facebook. Here is an excerpt from a message I shared recently, at a womens conference, Be encouraged as you listen.

God's Not Dead: Movie Review

I've read the reviews on this movie, as I watched it's release in the United States. While the movie has been released with rave reviews by Christians and met with mockery and skepticism by unbelievers , it finally came to Canada.  We sat and waited in the theater. The closer the time came for this movie to begin, we watched this theater fill up. Every seat, except for the front row was full. It's never full. Who wants to stretch their neck to look at the screen?

The movie began and right from the beginning, I had butterflies while watching this movie.  It's the first time that I've ever experienced this feeling, while watching a movie. It's a real fight for souls, with a real debate, filled with facts and truth.   Through out the movie, it never felt like a dull moment.  Although from the atheists point of view, it's ridiculously founded on Christian "facts", but to the atheist who is open to understanding both sides of the coin, he can eventually see that only one side truly exists.   It's clearly defined, this is a choice.

The acting is authentic and there are some fun, light-hearted moments. There are also times when it's easy to see a point taken, but denying the truth on the inside is still a fight for some characters. The story unfolds with different scenarios of unbelievers and believers who are caught in the trenches of life, yet in every character there is friction that reveals the truth.

The ending is a surprise, although we all hoped that particular circumstances would iron themselves out and God would make everything right. Without spoiling the ending for you, let's just say that although it didn't work out the way we thought, for every character in this movie, God does make everything right.  Why?  Because ....  

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. Isaiah 55:8  

If you haven't seen this movie, it's worth the ride. Riveting, challenging, thought provoking, truth-revealing!

"Noah"- Hollywood's Version

Well I actually saw the Hollywood movie “Noah” with Russell Crowe.  It’s a movie full of visual sensations. This movie depicts visually almost as though it is 3D, without actually being 3D. It's one of the most visually captivating movies I have ever seen.

Knowing the Biblical story of Noah, however, I waited for this movie to end.  About an hour after watching the movie, it was clear that I was watching “just” a movie, about a man that happened to be named Noah with some similar scriptural accounts. There was nothing about the story-line that even fit the character of the Biblical man named Noah. As a matter of fact, nothing fit the Biblical story of his family either, including the wives which his sons took.  That part didn’t even play out as being true to the original story. Noah came across as a legalistic madman, who seemed obsessed with a God who was not merciful.  God did not seem to have a desire to make a way for man to find redeeming grace.  According to Noah, God's plan was eventually to make man extinct, while the animals continued to thrive, after the flood.  Neither did Cain find his way onto the ark and fight Noah, for reign over the ark and Noah’s women.   None of this is ever found in scripture. However, Noah does come around at the end and he spares his grand children from death, (in the non-Biblical story) so that one day, the world may be fruitful and multiply.

The controversy over this movie only drew more attention to it.  The commercials for the movie only lead us to believe that it was the same story found in the Bible. What else would you expect of someone who happened to be named Noah, and happens to build an ark for a flood, that is sent by God?  Well that’s where the similarity ends. Noah always refers to the “creator”, and that may have been the one thing that kept the focus for the Christian viewer.  What is important to realize is that the producer Aronofsky, is Gnostic and the movie is from a Gnostic point of view. How does one put a Gnostic twist on a story that has already been written with factual accounts and ancient writing that provides the details? The story then purely becomes imagination – just another story, another movie.

The producer Aronofsky, presented Noah, as a story of good and bad, higher and lower spirituality, one with flesh and one that is spiritual (his god) and who is seemingly out of reach.  Several times, there is a recount of the creation story involving Adam and Eve’s fall from grace. It reminds us that they are responsible for all of this, because they ate the fruit of the forbidden tree. This is why Cain is so tightly woven into this story-line of Aronofsky's movie.

However, one might come to realize that after watching the movie, perhaps it was Aronofsky, the producer, who actually ate the forbidden fruit himself, before he made this movie.  Don’t presume that this has any redeeming Biblical reflection in it, except that the Noah and his family exist, there is a flood, and there is good and evil. Aronofsky has essentially stolen the characters along with this event in time and created his own version. He may not like my assessment of his movie, but who am I in his eyes-- a nobody that wouldn't buy the DVD when it comes out anyway. I hardly think that God is pleased when his story is "borrowed" and the real story isn't told.  

If you’re looking for the Biblical story of Noah then this is not it. It was written as entertainment with fantastical Hollywood imagination.

This Week's Inspiration

★ The Bible is catching Hollywood's attention. Check back here next week for the details on the movie,  "God's Not Dead" coming to Canada, Hollywood's "Noah", as well as "The Boy Who Came Back From Heaven". There are so many faith-based movies being released this year. Scroll down for movie reviews on "Son of God" and "Heaven Is For Real". 

With all the hype about the release of the Hollywood movie "Noah" here is the Biblical documentary behind the story of Noah. "Noah and the Last Days".  Pass it around to share. Produced by "Living Waters Ministries"

Inspiration for the week. Good for the men and the ladies too -- 

Be Blessed!

The wise woman builds her house, but with her own hands the foolish one tears hers down. Proverbs 21:1

It's hard to pretend that hard and troublesome times haven't existed in family. Our negative thoughts turn into negative words when we spend time focusing on them and then the lady of the house gets known as a "nag". It's definitely not a good reputation to have! Eventually, we certainly don't feel like doing what is important or take joy in our family. Do we tear down our loved-ones with our own words and by our own hands? Philippians 4:8 reminds us where to to focus our thoughts.

"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things."

So whatever you do, be sure that you think of the brighter side, through God's eyes and lift your family with praiseworthy and admirable words, words that our right, pure, and lovely. In this way, you are sure to build a house of love, a house filled with God's love.

Join Laurie on 

 

Movie Review "Heaven Is For Real"

My husband Scott and I had the privilege of attending the pre-screening of "Heaven Is For Real".  This is a true story of miracles and affirming faith in God through the experiences of the Burpo Family.  This is a modern day miracle and a message that proves God is still revealing himself to us!

From the very start of this movie, it starts with light-hearted laughter and shows us how any given day unfolds for the Burpo family.  I've never read the book, but I have a sense that the movie and book are comparable to one another. I've read reviews that question the validity of the young Colton's experiences written in the book, compared to scripture. Who are we to say what one person has or shouldn't experience?  Who are we to say that we know God's ways, and that we know about everything about the heavenly realm?

Honestly, this film lays out enough proof. As the story unfolds, Colton reveals more about his heavenly experience. I am convinced even more as I watch the movie, that his experience in heaven was real.  I can't find anything that contradicts scripture in the movie and it leaves one with the feeling of re-affirming faith.

Mr. Burpo, the father, husband and a pastor, even goes through a time where he questions his faith after he struggles with this new found understanding, because of what Colton has told him.

It takes the viewer full circle, experiencing faith, and heavenly mysteries. You hear of things that you wish your eyes could behold in the natural. Then you watch doubt unfold, discovery, renewal and then finally, to re-affirming your faith in God again, as you watch the story unfold.

I would recommend seeing this movie when it is released Easter weekend. It would be a good one to see, keeping in mind, the eventful celebration of Christ's resurrection.

Movie Review "Son of God"

 

In anticipation of already knowing the Biblical story and having seen several movies about the life of Christ, I have to say that this movie was creatively and uniquely depicted from the apostle John's point of view. I've read other reviews on this movie and although it was described as a "chunky" and very spliced movie, I feel that the producers, Mark Burnett and Roman Downey highlighted some of my favorite parts of the story.   Another twist in this story that was clearly made known in "entertainment" interviews with the producers, is that this story also includes Mary's point of view, as the mother of Jesus.  This is perhaps where the producers and I vary.  Mary's story isn't as vividly told in scripture as it is in this movie.   I knew that there would be some "creative license" with this movie as soon as I saw the trailer.  During the time that Christ carried the cross, he drops faintly and looks up.  Jesus looks at his mother who has reached to meet him on the ground, "Do not fear, with God all things are possible". As I watched the trailer, I knew that Jesus never said this to Mary. As a matter of fact Jesus actually says much earlier, before he went to the cross, in Matthew 19:26

"Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."

The Word says he was speaking to his disciples, not Mary, when he made this statement. As a matter of fact, this statement had nothing to do with Mary. Jesus had just finished a conversation with a rich man who wanted to know how a rich man could get into heaven. 

Am I splitting hairs over this?  Well, I like to see the Word of God presented as we know it, it's in purest form, although while watching the movie, this line was used to emphasize that Jesus drew his physical strength from the power of God, to lift the cross.  Immediately after making this statement, Mary watched Christ lift the cross on his back with a new strength, as though he had been revived. 

It was a good use of a scripture and as a general statement, it made a clear point about faith. However, as I said before, originally, in scripture, Jesus made this statement in a different place, and for a different conversation. 

The only other thing that saddened my heart was the understanding of spirituality by the producers. Charisma magazine and the Christian Post commented that Roma Downey had a degree in "Spiritual Psychology" at the University of Santa Monica.  At first glance, the title of such a degree would seem in line with Christian faith however, according the universities coarse description, this falls under the category of "new age" and discovering "one's higher consciousness."  Roma Downey has a history of being a devout Catholic. Are we letting a thread of "new age" beliefs, seep into the church?  She has even endorsed New Age authors and their books. In addition, she has commented in another article, that she lets her children listen to New Age teaching on CD.  I'm not pointing fingers. I'm just simply pointing out that the only "higher consciousness" that we need, is the presence of God, the Holy Spirit, to reveal all things to us in our lives.

I personally have always enjoyed Roma Downey's acting and her sweet personality. In "Touched by an Angel", her character and "Tess" were always an inspiration that turned my faith and heart toward God. They were good stories and even I have experienced God working through the angels at different times in my life. Attention should always be turned to God as the one who orchestrates such miracles in one's life, because we do not worship angels.   Neither do the angels desire it. That's the very things that got Lucifer in trouble! My concern about watching this movie, "Son of God", for any one with new found faith or young Believer, would only be that they might use the example of Roma's "new age" exploration, as a good walk in the Christian faith. We are all human and I know that is was their very best at telling the story, which by the way is I'm sure to be dear to Mark and Roma's heart. They have kept it unique and creative, even though it has been told so many times, but her New Age" influence is dangerous for her own faith and for those who watch and admire her.  

We should never mix the Bible with other "spiritual practices".  I pray that Roma Downey as well as her husband discovers Christ's higher ways for their lives in a personal way. I also pray that God will use this film to further is glory in the earth and through his people. God can use anything for his purpose! This film is certainly enjoyable, faith building and is full of scripture.

Can you see clearly?

Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. Proverbs 29:18 (KJV)

It's interesting that this scripture is often quoted by many to encourage people not to let their vision or "dreams" die. However, we often forget that this little saying that we like to quote and the verse itself, are not complete without the last half of it; "but he that keepeth the law, happy is he."

Honouring God, keeping his heart before yours and following the guidance of God's Word has a vital role in how that vision will flourish and stay alive in your spirit. In order to do this you must stay spiritually, emotionally, mentally and physically charged by taking time to "refuel". Have you ever had "burn out"? You need to keep your faith strengthened because there will always be obstacles in your way. Those "rest stops" are an important part of strengthening your faith.

When your faith is strengthened, your spirit is refreshed and your mind renewed, the vision remains clear, the light continues to shine and the fire keeps burning. As a result, this helps you to stay focused on the goal and purpose of your calling. His Word stirs the love and vision that God has given you. Your vision, motivated by God's love, then stirs that passion to serve God. This allows you to put your hands to what God has called you to for the moment, whether it's short or long term.

What is your vision? Jeremiah 29:11 says that God has a future and a hope for us, a purpose with plans to prosper us. Let the vision that God has given you, go forward. This is where the purpose lays as well as his plans to prosper you, in every area of your life. Continue to honour God, keeping his Word as the source of life for your vision. You will see every area of your life and your vision flourish, even through the bumps and obstacles, with his guidance for each step of the way.

Be strong and courageous, Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you where ever you go. Joshua 1:9

Coming Soon!

Grace Like Chocolate

If you enjoy chocolate, this is especially better than chocolate. 

Enjoy this special edition video devotional. 

More on the subject of God's Grace coming in February. 

Stay tuned for the Devotional Series "Seasons of Grace"

Life is a Bucket of Laughs

Visit Second Chance Ministries for Registration and More Details

(early bird rate til April 30th)

Do you take life too seriously? Do you see the little things as big obstacles in your way? Well, let me remind you of a little shepherd boy named David. He was a faithful shepherd boy watching over his flock of sheep. He killed a bear and a lion to protect them, yet he was just a small boy. When David (1 Samual 17) was given the opportune moment of favor to slay Goliath the giant, all he had was a slingshot and three stones.

The scriptures tell us that Goliath was 9’9” (6 cubits + 1 span). That's almost 10 feet tall! I am only 4 foot 11 inches and to me, my husband at 6 ft is tall! Can you imagine small young David, standing up to the terrible 10 foot giant Goliath with just a slingshot and three stones? Yet with all that must have been running through his mind, his confidence and strength in God remained. Even though the enemy laughed at him, David's stone hit that giant in the head in just the right position and God saw to it that the Philistine enemy was conquered!

A giant was certainly big enough to take seriously. Goliath was certainly not a small concern, but David didn't see him as a very large concern either, since he knew that his God was more powerful.

The next time that the little things stress you out, remember that God has much bigger situations under control. Use your spiritual weapon, the Word of God and trust that surely he can handle the small details. 

Becoming our True Selves

It's wonderful to feel as though you have “arrived”, at least you think you have until you face a new challenge or a fork in the road. Often you hear people say “I'm so satisfied with my life”, or “I have so much peace”. That's true when you know your identity in Christ no matter what the circumstances around you. People are so pleased with themselves when they feel that they have finally become their "true selves." However, in the Kingdom of God, our spiritual maturity is measured by how much we grow, to be less of ourselves, and more like Christ. The Bible, God's Word, says that we must become less in John 3:30 “He must become more important, but I must become less important." (International Standard Version)

We know that God loves us, but do we let his love enfold and fill our hearts in our lives, so much that we know him personally and become one heart with him. Let me assure you that God is not finished with you. His love, which is marvelous and rich, is just the beginning of all the blessings that he desires for you.

“Looking unto Jesus the AUTHOR AND FINISHER OF OUR FAITH; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” -- Hebrews 12:2

Unlike the world who does not know the love of Jesus, we don't have to spend years reading guru “self help” books to discover our "true selves." You are a child of the Most High God who is working out his perfect love in you and through you as you seek his ways in your life. Continue to walk and respond with Gods' love, with his heart, priorities and attitudes. You'll realize that you are walking in the most important identity that you could ever have. Your identity in Christ, as you grow in faith. He will reveal the person that he created you to be, with his heart in the center of yours. That is your "true self".

Afternoon Splash Womens Conference

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(advance tickets are available til April 30th

Just Be Woolly

I'm sure that you've heard this line on a Friday night. "Do you know where your children are? God never has to ask that question because he knows everything about his children as well as where and what they are doing. Are you one of God's children?

His Word identifies us as "sheep" because he is our Shepherd. Good shepherd's lead the way for their sheep, out of danger, out of harms way and keep them huddled together in safety. Sheep also have a tendency to wander away and get into trouble. Does this remind you of anyone? Perhaps you're reminded of a few things that you would like to go back and do over again differently? "For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God's sight. As it is written: "He catches the wise in their craftiness"; 1 Cor 3:19

They are also restless and weak creatures who also need plenty of water. We need spiritual hunger and thirst that can only be filled by him. We cannot go without it. John 7:38 says: "He who believes in Me [who cleaves to and trusts in and relies on Me] as the Scripture has said, From his innermost being shall flow [continuously] springs and rivers of living water; In dry spells a sheep may not go to get water. They will surround a tree in a dry place or an empty water trough until they die of thirst. They need someone to lead them beside still water.

Now, here's an interesting fact! Sheep cannot get up by themselves. If they fall down or cast down themselves, then they will lay on their back with their feet in the air. They will die in this state, but the Shepherd picks them up and sets them back on their feet.

Certainly as I mentioned before, if sheep tend to wander away, they can also lose their sense of direction. However, the sheep know and recognize their shepherd's voice. As God's children, he calls us his sheep; Like the sheep, we can recognize our Shepherd's voice and no other master's voice. The voice of the shepherd brings comfort and security to the sheep. Jesus said, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27). Do you need to find your way today? Are you cast down? Have you heard his voice call you today? Let him pick you up and lead you into rest, beside still waters. Hear the Shepherd's voice today.

Something out of Nothing

Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing then he deceived himself. Galatians 6:2,3

I read these two scriptures one after the other and to me, they seem like two different thoughts, although I see how they connect. They bring all kinds of possibilities to my mind of what they can mean or teach me.

We are fulfilling the law of Christ by carrying each other's burdens. What does it mean to carry someone's burden? Is it simply just to pray for them? Does it mean that we should do more if it is "within our means"? Does it mean that we should do more, even IF it's a sacrifice? Is it up to the individual to decide or is it up to God to lead us and then is it up to us to follow through? Keith Green once said, "to obey is better than sacrifice." He was talking about sacrificing or passing up the blessing by not following through in obedience to God, when he speaks to your heart. My thought is that we do not consider carrying the burdens of others as though we see ourselves as doormats. We need to see carrying the burdens of others as an act of obedience however far that takes us in His will. Praying is a lovely gesture, an act of commitment by your word, and an opportunity to stand in the gap, but it is not a great sacrifice. However, to step in and walk beside your brother or sister, in the spirit through prayer AND in the natural, even in practical ways, is a sacrifice that will bring joy. The sacrifice could be physical, monetary, emotional, but in the end it will not seem like a sacrifice at all. The reward is great, when there is faithfulness in serving Christ and therefore the sacrifice is merely temporary, because eventually the Lord honours our faithfulness with His reward.

The scripture that follows conjures a second set of thoughts for me. "If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, then he deceives himself." (Galatians 2:3) I wonder if this refers to those who go about their own business and let the burdens of others in their pathway, fall to the wayside? Perhaps it is referring to those who say, "I'll pray for you" and then walk away. It may be referring to those who are too proud to get in the trenches with their brother or sister. Perhaps it is even a sacrifice to give praise to God and express genuine joy because of what God is doing in someone else's life when jealousy rears it's ugly head. Perhaps they are even too proud to let someone ride on their coat tail for a while. It is good to journey with our brother and sister, in their vision, connect on a level that brings passion, not a spirit of competition, and become brothers and sisters in Christ who sorrow with each other when there is pain and rejoice when there is victory. When we have pride, we think we're "just something else". Yep, we got what it takes! Of course it feels great to do a great thing but that act does not make us "something special". Yet, in all truth, our deluded greatness is just hay and rotten rubble, a royal stench and a great big fat nothing, in God's eyes. You cannot get something out of nothing, unless it is a sacrifice for you. We are already "something special" in God's eyes because he loves us. Our act of sacrifice simply makes us obedient. Only a sacrifice brings heavenly rewards and blessings in return.

Let us remember that even to say a kind word, although unaware of someone else's circumstances, they may be the words that lift another's burdens. Let's remember to speak truth with a genuine heart. Even though it's hurtful to them, it is love because anything else would be a lie. It is a great sacrifice to set aside your own feelings in the time of someone else's distress. Let us also remember that each one of us is called to minister with greatness, even in the smallest way. There is no one that measures greater, nor is there a better standard to gauge or a greater calling for one or the other. We are all one, each fulfilling our purpose in Christ. Consider what your possibilities of greatness can be. What reward might you may miss out on when you do not obey? Then consider the blessings God is willing to bestow, when you find yourself faced with a personal sacrifice. The real personal sacrifice is when we miss out on the blessing because we did not heed the Lord's leading.

Personal sacrifice = reward

Sacrifice your obedience = missed blessing

On The Right Foot

A man’s heart plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps. Proverbs 16:9

Tomorrow will be New Year's Eve. What are you looking forward to in the year to come? As much as new beginnings are exciting, starting off right is important. So how do you get off on the right foot to a new beginning?

Get Vision.

Whatever your goal will be, make this your vision and pray that God will lead you to see clearly what the real purpose of your goal is. Some soul searching may be required and that may require for you to surrender some deep things in your soul and let go of things or emotions that you hold on to.

Get Practical.

Carve out some time in your schedule and sit down with the necessary tools. You'll need any number of tools, such as a calendar, calculator, computer, “project work book”, pen and pencil, to mention a few. Sit down and begin to make a wish list and then consider what is the first priority on your list. Start with the top one. Consider the steps that it will take to reach your top priority and then right down the steps that you think will help accomplish your goal.

Make a Plan.

Whether your plan is to lose weight, get in shape, stop smoking, curb a bad habit or just to spend more time with family or even to promise yourself a special vacation, you must make a plan. Set reasonable target dates for your progress and a list of things that might be a distraction or prevent you from reaching your goal.

Do The Research

Although it's tempting, this is a step that you should never skip. Always consider your spiritual condition and your relationship with God as you decide what is right for you. Ask yourself, “Would God be pleased if I do it this way?” While something may look like the right application to reach your goal, it may be rooted in something that God would not be pleased with. Doing research will help you uncover the truth and will solidify the steps that you will take to achieve your goal. These steps will also help to eliminate or at least decrease any road blocks that you may face along the way. Anticipating these steps will also help prevent you from getting side tracked and distracted. That's not to say that there won't be surprises or detours that you have to make a long the way, but they will be less if you plan your steps. Most importantly, because you did the research, you know that you have customized a plan that works for you.

Pray Along The Way

None of this comes without careful prayer and leading by the Holy Spirit. He will give you vision as you're waiting for that peace that God gives in the midst of your plans. The steps that you plan will be like “steps of faith”.  He will honour each step of faith and will help you reach your goal. He is with you and he would love nothing more than for you to bounce ideas off of him. He loves that you take time to check in with him and have great conversation as you take each step of faith. He will hold your hand, just trust in him and he'll keep you strong and focused. He will cheer you on until you reach your goal.  

The God Habit

Every new year we start by contemplating what we hope to look forward to in the coming 365 days. Some of us decide to make changes and set goals. Some of us will continue on with the same goals and grow in the changes that we've already started. Yes, there will be some who decide that they will not make any changes or resolutions at all. Of all the resolutions that is most popular, it is the one when we promise to lose some weight and get in shape. That resolution has never worked out for me. I still keep working on that one. In any case, we hope that whatever goals and resolutions that we decide, we will eventually develop the necessary habits to achieve the final results.

Above all other resolutions, the one that is of utmost importance is a spiritual practice. It holds eternal and the most highest value. This is because it determines your final destination and gives the best results over your life-long journey. It is also because everything flows out of your spirit (or spirit man) and impacts your world.

Proverbs 4:23 states this wonderfully. In each translation, you can see that the heart is center and determines the outcome of our lives.

The NIV
Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.

New Living Translation
Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.

English Standard Version
Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.

It is clear that our heart holds whatever reflects from our spiritual life, and flows into our world around us.  It can affect everything from money to relationships.

"Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers." John 3:1-2

These scriptures are just a few examples of how important matters of the heart are.

One story that Jesus told in Matthew 25 :1-13 is about the 10 virgins. Jesus begins the story by saying “At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom”. The 10 virgins represents the church, untouched and pure. They have been washed by the blood of Christ that is shed for sins that makes them clean. They represent the children of God who are the bride of Jesus Christ. However, five of the virgins were wise and five of them were foolish.   The parable begins by indicating that this is about a certain time on the earth with the phrase "At that time". No one knew when he would arrive, but they were waiting. Each of the foolish and wise virgins had lamps, but while they were waiting, they fell asleep. A shout was heard “Look the bridegroom is coming!” When they awoke, they realized that the bridegroom was coming but the five foolish virgins did not have extra oil for their lamps. They asked to borrow some from the five wise virgins, but the wise virgins said no. They knew the importance of having enough oil to stay until the bridegroom had finally arrived. The foolish five virgins left to get oil and while they were gone, the bridegroom did arrive. The five who had kept their lamps burning went with the bridegroom and the door was shut so that no one else would enter. When the five foolish virgins returned, they had missed the bridegroom and could not enter the wedding. They knocked on the door “Lord Lord, let us in”. He said, “I tell you the truth, I do not know you.”

The value of this parable just overwhelms me to think that we could be in that very time. The oil, which represents his presence and anointing, the fire of the Holy Spirit, must remain burning in our lives. We must be careful that when we rest, that our hearts are right with God. We must even be prepared with our oil, while we are sleeping! I do not want to hear the bridgegroom Jesus say, "I do not know you" when he returns for his bride. 

This is the one habit that is of utmost importance. Let this be our resolution this year; to develop our spiritual lives, to grow in our walk with God. So that all that flows from it, is simply an abundance of the oil, His Holy Spirit, who overflows within us and out through us. This will bring about wholeness and the change in us that we so desire, as well as our world around us.

Gifts Galore!

FREE CHRISTMAS DOWNLOAD

This is your last chance to get access to the free MP3 of "Silent Night Midnight Clear." for Christmas! Sample and Download from NoiseTrade. Your link to download is emailed to you once you submit your request. 

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Why is it that no one knows what I really want for Christmas? No one in my family just knows me so that when they go shopping, that they would recognize gifts that make them think of me? So when the time comes for them to buy Christmas gifts, they want you to drop hints WITH pictures and they also want the name of the store too! 

Often as Moms and wives (and Dad's too) we are busy "giving" and nurturing. We're the one who is always asking them questions and they do the talking. As we listen, we learn about the little things that interest them. We understand them. There are times when any one of us can find disappointment by the gifts under the tree in spite of the fact that we want to be grateful for them. 

There is one gift will never disappoint us. It is the one gift that has enabled every other gift in our lives. During this Christmas season, remember to make the gift of God's love, Jesus, your strongest focus. While you're gathered with family and friends, remember that they are also an eternal gift. They need Jesus' love as well. The gifts under the tree are simply thoughtful attempts in the form of mere tokens, that will one day fade away. Family and friends are treasured gifts that have eternal value. God's love and the gift of his son Jesus is the greatest gift that you could give them and yourself this Christmas!

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. -- James 1:17

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 Enjoy a short video of some of the music from the Christmas Cafe along with an original Christmas Story . . .

"The Angel's Window" 

Christmas Cafe Success

The Christmas Cafe "The Glory of Heaven" took place on Wednesday Dec 11th in London Ontario.  The evening was festive and full of music as well as an inspirational dramatized Christmas story that I shared as well.  The evening was Hosted by Marion, the host of the afternoon radio show on Faith FM London, she kept things on the ball and in time.  The evening opened up with some fun with Judy Carscadden who sang the audience through the 12 days of Christmas, adding silly and humorous effects to each verse.  The audience thoroughly enjoyed it.

Opening with some festive music.

The music that I did was a mix of favourite Christmas carols done with new fresh arrangements, and included some favourite hymns. Ken Quarrie joined me, playing his guitar and Mat Monoogian on the Cajon (Percussion instrument), for a cafe style segment of original Christmas music and a story.

The evening had 16 volunteers and nearly 30 sponsors between sponsors, door prizes and raffle items and the proceeds raised funds for the families in crisis and crisis pregnancy project through the Benevolent Fund  with Second Chance Ministries. The admission was only $5.00 for such an eventful night, lavishly decorated in Christmas style, music, a full array of refreshments and music and festive fun.

Marion from Faith FM in the red sweater  &
Laurie helping her with the door prizes on stage

The only disappointing thing was that our video camera quit and we didn't get the whole thing. We're also limited on the number of pictures available. We did get a segment from the evening and that will be available the next edition of the blog. It was definitely a vision and an evening that I could not have accomplished on my own and I am so thankful to God for each one who volunteered, sponsored the event and for those who attended as well.

What you see hear is less than half of the room!  It was a packed out house with just room at one table and a few seats on the side, when the crowd had settled in to start the show.

Marion from Faith FM with Laurie (middle) and Judy Carscadden at the
Radio Station doing an interview the Monday before Dec 11th.

Check out the latest goodies below

FREE CHRISTMAS DOWNLOAD

An MP3 of "Silent Night Midnight Clear."   

Sample and Download from NoiseTrade. Your link to download is emailed to you once you submit your request. You have an option to tip the artist for their free download or just simply skip this step.

Learning from Sandi!

Sandi Patty released a brand new CD in Sept 2013 that has revealed a simpler, less complex musical styling for her. She says "These songs have been, for my life, the lyrics and the message that I have needed, reflecting the simpler, gentler, laid-back side of life."   Listening to it, unravels your day and wraps you into God's peace because it expresses personal intimacy with God. The new CD is entitled "everlasting" and is exclusively available through Target stores.

Along with this new CD, a new website design followed. A recent visit to her website shows that Sandi Patty is leaning towards simplifying life.   Life is busy for Sandi and I'm sure that this makes more time in life for the things that matter most. The new blog format of Sandi's website enables her to do daily devotionals and post them easily to keep in direct contact with her website visitors and those who follow her music and ministry. This is key and very important, and shows you where her priority is.  There is also definitely no need for bells and whistles with an artist like Sandi, whose voice shines and stands out above the busy-ness of life.

As a teenager, I remember when I would spend hours singing along to every Sandi Patty song. I would challenge myself with whatever the next big note was on every song.  It had to sound just like her with ease and perfection. I'd pray and ask God for help and I practiced and practiced until I got it right.  Then the day came when I started to sound like Sandi. That would be great, except I'm not Sandi, and I never will be. Even Sandi herself would agree, you need to be yourself. You need to be unique with all the quirks, personality and style that God has given you.  Sooo ... I put away the high notes when I became ill and never looked back. However, being me was better than being Sandi, because I walk my own journey. While there are similar things in life that we can relate to and share the same faith, we also walk different roads to the same destiny -- eternity.  We have different lessons to learn in life and different experiences, yet we can both learn from one another too.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us  --- Hebrews 12:1

I'm thankful for the long distance music mentoring that Sandi has unknowingly been for me. It has shaped a part of me. The message and music, just like many other Christian artists that I've listened to, have always pointed me in the right direction, where I can find my Lord and Saviour as a refuge and resting place. The music has been an inspiration in my life and an encouragement to strive for excellence in my own calling and gift.

Thanks for stopping by for the latest reflection on music and ministry.

Check out the latest goodies below

FREE CHRISTMAS DOWNLOAD

An MP3 of "Silent Night Midnight Clear."   

Sample and Download from NoiseTrade. Your link to download is emailed to you once you submit your request. You have an option to tip the artist for their free download or just simply skip this step.

 Mandisa hits #1 on the billboard Christian charts. As of this date, she has made her mark on the charts and has maintained that #1 spot for her song "Overcomer". The former American Idol contestant has really let her light shine for Jesus on the stage. Congratulations Mandisa!  I don't like the industry "talk" when it's all about "who's who" and who is #1 but some notoriety for a job well done brings great exposure. It does help to get the message out there and people are touched by the song.  That's the best part of it all. From one artist to another, I am certain that this is what Mandisa really cares about. She really cares about how people are touched and changed in their faith, strengthened and challenged by the music and how she conveys and communicates from the platform.

This video uses real people, real overcomers and creates an inspiring mix of stories when you really look at the whole story.  It creates a story of victory! I love that about Mandisa and her music. It's positive, real life, relatible and honest. There's a story behind every recording project too.

I remember when I wrote the song "My Deliverer". When the music video was released in January 2012, at first people had thought that I had recorded a Mandisa cover, reminiscent to one of her earlier songs. We're uniquely different in music styling but the truth is, my song was written through my own experience and inspiration of God at work in my own life. Most importantly, the responses from people were always positive with incredible testimonies of how God has used the music video to minister and reach people's hearts through their pain and need for freedom in their lives.  Even as Christians, we can find ourselves chained or bound in certain areas of our lives, but just like Mandisa's song says "We're an overcomer" ... and it's because we have a Deliverer.  He is our Rock, Our Shield and Our Deliverer.  The video received more notice than I thought it would. I was approached by the Artist Music Guild, Nashville TN to submit it for a Heritage Award in 2012.  It did receive a Heritage Award nomination and out of over 600 other videos in it's category, it was in the top ten.  It happened with a few other organizations as well, but nothing was more satisfying that knowing that the message and video was being used divinely by God to speak into people's lives as the music video received more exposure. God lifts up the work that we humbly do in his name. 

As for Mandisa. She continues to be an inspiration to me and others with her music and we are both running in the same race

Watch "My Deliverer"

 'My Deliverer" Interview

                                            

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Coming up Soon!

Visit Laurie's official website