As a manager, much of my time is spent focusing on the staff in one way or another. This is as it should be, since your team is your number one asset in terms of your ability to practice veterinary medicine. Veterinary medicine is a service-driven business. While veterinarians do dispense medications and sell products, their primary “business” is service-driven: professional examinations, professional services, radiography, surgery, etc.

Service industries require the human element, in order to function. This requires hiring, training and retaining solid teams that share in your philosophies. The culture of your practice should be a direct reflection of your philosophy of veterinary care, as well as client service.

In order to create and manage successful support staff teams, you need to first create a solid expectation for the culture of your practice. Spelling out expectations makes it easy for any new team member to understand what you want, the work environment you’ve created, and how they should function within those parameters. I call these expectations the Principles of Mutual Respect, and an example is shown here:

Principles of Mutual Respect

The ABC Veterinary Clinic is a diverse organization made up of people from a range of backgrounds with differing values and experiences. As an organization, we aspire to do our best. This aspiration extends to all relationships, including our behavior towards one another, and the clients we serve. These Principles of Mutual Respect are designed to encourage all individuals who make up the ABC Veterinary Clinic to work together in an environment where shared values are supported and diversity is embraced.

Statement of Commitment

Each staff member, manager, and veterinarian shares in the responsibility for creating and maintaining the practice’s environment of mutual respect. We demonstrate openness and fairness in all our dealings with people. Staff, managers, and veterinarians perform the functions of the practice in an impartial and professional manner. We act with care and diligence in the course of our work.

We recognize and value the contributions made by people to the Practice

• We affirm the professionalism of our colleagues, trusting and empowering them to work constructively for the well being of the practice community.
• We exemplify respect through the simple courtesies of always being on time, listening without interrupting, and cultivating a sincere appreciation of what every individual brings to a given situation.
• We recognize and respect, although we are willing to question, established obligations, systems, policies and procedures.
• We encourage and acknowledge a range of contributions that support our values and principles.
• We respect difference and welcome creative, or alternative viewpoints.
• We care for, and encourage staff members, managers and veterinarians in their personal pursuits.
• We encourage and support the educations, professional and personal development of all staff members, managers and veterinarians.

We care for the social and natural environment

• We ensure staff members, managers and veterinarians have the opportunity to become socially and environmentally responsible.
• We use our resources responsibly and seek to minimize or eliminate waste.
• We encourage and value a safe, healthy and creative environment.

We value and support the right to confidentiality

• All private information will be kept confidential, unless with consent or as required by overriding moral or legal obligation.

We avoid conflict of interest in all our dealings with the ABC Veterinary Clinic and the community

• We agree that a conflict of interest may occur when an individual’s personal, financial, political or other interests may conflict with the performance of their duties.
• We agree to avoid situations where there is, or may appear to be, a conflict of interest.
• Possible conflicts of interest should be disclosed to a manager on an ‘as needed’ basis.

We value a harassment free workplace

• We treat everyone we encounter with respect and courtesy, and without harassment.
• All staff members, managers and veterinarians have the responsibility to ensure that their behaviors do not harass, threaten, bully, belittle or vilify others.

We work towards building a harmonious working environment in which we maximize our professional performance

• We maintain honesty, integrity and professionalism in all our work within the ABC Veterinary Clinic.
• We encourage staff members, managers, and veterinarians to be personally accountable for their performance and behavior.
• We agree that any interpersonal friction is handled directly person-to-person, without lobbying for support from outside viewpoints.
• We trust that we will give each other the benefit of the doubt should others ever need it, and will each be worthy of that benefit when given.

Once you create your practice’s Principles of Mutual Respect, you should also write a statement of personal commitment for staff to sign and return as an acknowledgment. This can be filed in their personnel record. An acknowledgment statement should include the following:

Personal Commitment

As a member of the ABC Veterinary Clinic team, I do hereby acknowledge and affirm that as a member of the team I will abide by our Principles of Mutual Respect.

I acknowledge that each staff member, manager, and veterinarian shares in the responsibility for creating and maintaining the practice’s environment of mutual respect. It is my responsibility to do my part by understanding and utilizing these principles on a daily basis.

Signature: _________________________________Date: __________

Creating and implementing your own Principles of Mutual Respect is a solid step towards improving your own workplace culture. If you haven’t had one in place, launch it in a full staff meeting, explaining the importance of everyone’s participation. Ask every existing staff member to sign a personal commitment statement and get everyone off on a fresh start! In Part 2, we’ll discuss how to hold yourself and your staff accountable to the Principles of Mutual Respect.

No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. 24

Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? 25

Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?  27

Therefore take no thought, saying, what shall we eat? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 31

(For all these things do the Gentiles seek;) for your heavenly Father knoweth you have need of all these things. 32

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. 33 (Matthew 6:24,25,27,31-33)

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.

I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6,11-12, 19

Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.

Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.

Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. James 4:2-4

If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;

He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,

Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.

But godliness with contentment is great gain.

For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.

And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.

But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 1 Timothy 6:3-9

Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.

(For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ:

Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)

For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Philippians 3:17-20

Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever. 1 John 2:15-17

But when he had turned about and looked on his disciples, he rebuked Peter, saying, Get thee behind me, Satan: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men. Mark 8:33

Why multiply scriptures and give no explaination? Because the Word of God is clear, because if ye wrestle ye wrestle not against flesh and blood, but rather fight against God.

What does this have to do with the title: Focused Prayer? Because as long as we are caught up in life and the things of this world we cannot pray as we ought, we cannot focus as we ought on the things that we should be focused on while we’re yet focused on the things concerning this life. The greatest commandment in the Word of God is this:  “…thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength:” Mark 12:30

When we focus on the things concerning the kingdom of God, then God will add those things unto us that we need to make it in this life.

Again addressing the topic… if all our prayer efforts are for financial help and gain for ourselves, for our own person agendas and things that will profit us the kindgom itself will suffer great lack. Therefore Paul said, “Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others” Philippians 2:4

Our focus should be on the things of God and bearing one another’s burdens. This is the way the church should operate. Again I quote Paul, “Let no man seek his own, but every man another’s wealth.” 1 Corinthians 10:24

You could perhaps convince yourself by reading that whole passage that Paul was only saying that in a particular way, but Paul this is too similar to what he said in Philippians above and what he taught and practiced throughout his ministry to be thrown out.

My prayer for myself and for you all who love God is that we love Him wholly and live a life that is pleasing to Him, seeking those things which are above and not the things on the earth (ref. Colossians 3:1-2) that God Himself may be magnified and glorified in us.

Although I never wanted to comment on someone else's marriage, the situation with Jon and Kate Plus 8 has certainly caught my attention. For 12 years I studied and applying the emotional side of money with the practical day to day decisions of the money for whatever we do – in my life and the lives of clients I work with – individuals and couples.

We all know it takes hard work and commitment of marriage if it's interesting to me, and I am sure many others, what rolemoney played in the failure of the marriage public. Obviously a lot more money now to do their show from reality TV, what they did when Jon worked to support herself and her 8 children.

My husband and I have a daughter who loves the show to take note of the message you get to see. Together we have survived bankruptcy, death, cancer, and a series of family crises and others are still married after 14 years because one of our values and our commitment.Clearly, couples the generation of our parents have been married for 30, 40, 50 and more years, experienced financial difficulties and triumphs and have stuck together through everything.

The fact that Jon and Kate's marriage is in trouble when the outside have all the money that many people think that to solve their major problems is a reminder that money is not the answer to problems money. In fact, your values, priorities and commitments that are the basis offor financial decisions.

If you like what you read and want to learn more about how money relates to you personally, please moneyminding.com visit and subscribe to the newsletter.

Hebrews 12:13-15 (Message)

Work at getting along with each other and with God. Otherwise you’ll never get so much as a glimpse of God. Make sure no one gets left out of God’s generosity. Keep a sharp eye out for weeds of bitter discontent. A thistle or two gone to seed can ruin a whole garden in no time. Watch out for the Esau syndrome: trading away God’s lifelong gift in order to satisfy a short-term appetite. You well know how Esau later regretted that impulsive act and wanted God’s blessing—but by then it was too late, tears or no tears.

There is a lifetime between man and God that is to be filled with moment after moment. How this time is spent will dramatically affect the process of preparation for the Kingdom of God? Time is different there as are God’s priorities. Once a person becomes saved, their hunger and appetites change based on the promise of God concerning their life and purpose. Suddenly those things that once satisfied or numbed the longings are just not enough. Consecrated lifestyles separate man from the worldly comforts that once temporarily satisfied the carnal desires. Now all of that seems insufficient. These new longings can only be filled by that which is found in the Presence of God but will never be satisfied with a discontent heart. When God is at work it often appears as though, He is not working at all because His Ways are different from the world’s way. Therefore it is a challenge to maintain  faith when taken to the very edge of possibility, dangerously close to failure and beyond the help offered by others or one’s own hands. It is the release of all self-control and total reliance on the ability of God. It is at this extreme where one may experience the temptation to abandon the pathway set before them by the Lord and take the easy way out. Those who remain on course with a content heart will meet God!

Successful advertising is the key to commercial success and the promotion of company products and services nationwide. The more exposure a company receives the more their product sells and the higher the profit. The corporation that is able to make their product a household name that is coveted by many, directly benefits the establishment. Once we are saved, God begins to show us the greatness of His Purpose designed for us and suddenly we become discontent with the things around us. His Plan is to woo us into a consecrated life of service to Jesus that we may experience the incredible blessings of His Kingdom. Our selfish need for immediate gratification, however, will almost inevitably lead us to make impulsive decisions if our heart is not satisfied in the Lord. God is looking for sanctified lives with righteous standards to make His Dwelling Place and to prosper. He will exalt those who are able to separate themselves from self-promotion and invest in long term commitment to Kingdom Goals.  One tiny seed of discontentment can completely derail a journey to the Promise of God. A sanctified life is marked by a peaceful heart that is content to be productive and conducive to spiritual blessing. Those who remain in right standing with God will begin to prosper and be vessels of abundant overflow. No need for religious lifestyles but simply maintaining the right position to obtain and redirect God’s Blessing!

Psalm 65:4 (Amplified)

Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man whom You choose and cause to come near, that he may dwell in Your courts! We shall be satisfied with the goodness of Your house, Your holy temple.

On those days when you feel frustrated that God is taking too long or maybe your blessing seems just out of reach, close your eyes and open your heart. Those who God calls to be sanctified and set apart for His Use are truly happy, fortunate and to be envied. However, when discontentment settles over our eyes, we fail to see the Hand of God at work. The weeds it produces choke out all spiritual growth and allow doubt to cover the pathway to victory. Inspect your heart today and ask the Holy Spirit if discontentment has crept in. It is easy to spot as it is marked by bitterness, envy, jealously and pettiness that steals from the beautiful courts of God’s Dwelling Place – your heart! Ask the Lord to reveal those bitter seeds of discouragement that are threatening the exponential growth and unhindered freedom that is yours!

My girlfriend and I took a big step the other day. I’m not going to pretend to know if it was a good or bad decision in the grand scheme of things. It certainly had some repercussions. And it certainly was a big step.

I had to go grocery shopping, and so did she, so we went together. We don’t usually do this. It was nice. Kind of cute I guess. I noticed other couples, maybe two or three. But mostly I saw people who were by themselves and were single or married – you could tell by their cart.

That’s not what was important about this trip, though. What’s important was this – we bought ice cream together.

It all starts somewhere, people, and for us, it was ice cream.

I’ve had friends who were dating each other and they thought, ‘let’s get an apartment together.’ Sometimes that’s awful nice, and beautiful, and whatever else. Sometimes though, it’s the opposite of the list of adjectives you just came up with.

One such couple bought a set of pots and pans together. A fifteen set. That is a lot of pots and pans and perhaps even more importantly it is an odd number. The gal in this relationship, not to be sexist – but she’s the one living the stereotype, not me – cooks much more than the guy. The guy is really rather stupid when it comes to food. He and I got in a conversation about it, from which I learned he thinks it is more cost-savvy to eat out at cheap sandwich shops. ‘I buy a sandwich and it costs like, 5 or 6 bucks … I go to the grocery store and I have to spend all this money on bread, and meat, and tomatoes … and then I have to take all the time to prepare it.’ He really is this dumb.

And now here he is engaging in this next dumb activity. You get an apartment together, that’s fine. But you each buy half the necessary stuff! Don’t split it. I get the couch, you get the TV. Etc.

I can see in a few months some very heated discussions about that terrible 15th pot/pan. It is a terrible maneuver on the part of the pot/pan making company but very business savvy. They will each have to go buy a half set more of pots/pans, or find someone who made the same mistake in a relationship but got the exact opposite half set of pots/pans. Wouldn’t that be tremendous?

I am smart. I can see potential problems and that’s why I’m doing so well. I don’t rush into things. My girlfriend wasn’t the type to rush into things either.

We were going to start doing more together. We were going to eat ice cream together. After that magical trip to the grocery store.

As soon as we checked out I looked at her and she smiled and I thought, ‘this is so nice.’ Then I looked in front of me to make sure I wouldn’t walk into something. Then I looked over at her again and she was still smiling. This worried me.

Why is she smiling so much?

I thought back on what we had said when we made the decision to buy ice cream together,

‘Mmm, I could go for ice cream.’ Me.

‘Yeah, that does sound good.’ Her.

‘I’m gonna buy some.’ Me.

‘Want to split one? I don’t want to eat that much, so you can have most.’ Her.

That bitch! She tricked me into this! Of course!

That wily bitch.

She knows I’m cheap, and she knows I love food – she used this. Bitch is probably smiling about wedding rings!

As we got back to my place I felt claustrophobic. I looked around and couldn’t help but imagine her moving in and taking up too much room.

Is that her sweater on my chair?

‘Hey, is that your sweater?’

She smiled that, ‘whoops’ smile. Wily, manipulative -

‘Actually I’m cold anyway.’

Cold-hearted, manipulative, wily little -

I have to say, looking back, it was probably a little irrational of me to break it off with her that night. And then to throw the ice cream out the window was just kind of silly. I can safely say that I overreacted.

With pots and pans, especially the nice ones, when you buy those with someone you’re stuck for a long time. You had better not be the type to feel claustrophobic. Ice cream is a less strong commitment, but it is certainly still a commitment. Do not underestimate it. You don’t want to break it off, and then go home feeling down to find an empty freezer knowing full well that your ex is eating ice cream that you paid for.

Since the ‘ice cream incidator’ (incidator because it’s like instigator mixed with incident) as I called it in the Dear So-and-So advice column letter I thought about writing, I’ve been working on my commitment issues.

I figured the best way to work on my issue would be to dive in head first.

I went out on a date with a girl and after the date ended I insisted that we get ice cream. I bought a pint and said, ‘keep it at your place, maybe after our next date we can finish it off.’ Then I smiled to let her know, I’m in this for real.

She never called me again. I think I came on too strong, wanting to have a mutual possession too soon.

I went on a date with a different girl and I asked her how long she thought a thing of ice cream usually lasted. She said depends on the person. I said I could polish one off in three, maybe four sittings. Then I looked away and said let’s get a thing of ice cream together, ‘for us‘. She laughed and said ok. I didn’t know the word ‘ok’ could come across sounding so needy.

Recently I found out that you can fake being lactose intolerant, and no one would ever know. I have a date tomorrow with a girl, and having found out about this lactose intolerance I don’t see how any thing can stop us from being married.

There are many things that a relationship can teach you, too many things to be precise. Each day, each moment simply opens up your eyes to something new, a new realization, a new feeling, a newer perspective, a newer life. But then a relationship isn’t a school for life isn’t a school for we all have made same mistakes over and over again for we all have fallen in love and fallen for the same words. Had life been a school we would never have been in love for to love means to unlearn, to love means to let go and to live means to live and not to sit back and analyze and look behind every move and to speak with an intend. Life isn’t something which an academician can teach you for life lies beyond what we can see, life is everywhere, in an empty room, in an empty space for everything in life has a place, everything has it’s time for sometimes even the best of us, the most garrulous of us, the most outgoing of us, seek that reticence, seek that solitude, seek those darkened rooms and closed doors.

I don’t know a thing about anything, let alone life but the only thing that I know is to love and to love with every corner and space from within. To love and to become love, to demand and to become the demand, to fly and to become the wings, to paint the town red and to become the color, to be and to become what I am. Love is what I sought in solitude for love is where you rediscover yourself; love is my solitude where I become what I am and if love takes away your identity then let it for it’s our identities which are standing between us and love. Let me be nothing, let me be a whim, let me be the air, let me be the cloud, let me be the raindrop, one like every other, every other like one, quenching the expecting earth and becoming the earth itself. And that is why we never have loved and that is why our hearts are so full yet so empty because we are not what love wanted us to be, we are a name followed by everything that we are not, we are not love.

There are many things that a relationship can teach you but mine didn’t taught me anything for I am just a stupidly in love person for practicality is something which I always have left behind; practicality and fear for if love can’t set you free than it isn’t love. And I am vulnerable, and I am weak for there isn’t a space, the emptiness left inside of me that love didn’t uncover. And I stand uncovered, unsheathed like a neonatal now, reborn, reclaimed, rejuvenated, and waiting like this expecting earth to unite with my beloved and to become the beloved itself.

And if there is something which I did learn is about love and the way it lies in every nook and corner for love isn’t about spending your lives together rather love is about infusing your togetherness with life. And life doesn’t lie in preciseness, life isn’t about brevity for life is in details, life is in speck which we often end up missing, tossing or replacing, waiting for that big moment we end up missing everything that lies in between, forgetting that it’s these in betweens where our life exists.

This is a collage of some of the things that I am feeling right now. I will go clockwise and end with the center photo.

1. iPhone I have been in love with the iPhone for a long time. Instead of getting the iPhone when I upgraded the last time, I tried to give Sprint a chance. I got screwed for having done this. My bill went from $70 to $104 because of a lie told to me by one of the “customer service” folk. I am not going to do the whole two years on this contract. I disregarded the signs, and now I am paying.

2. Be Natural Tee As you all know, I am going natural. My wife bought this “Think outside the box” tee for me when I first decided that I wanted to start the journey. I love this tee, and the whole premise behind it.

3. Natural Beauty This tee can be found on BNatural’s website also. It is linked above. I really like this one because of the definition on the shirt. It says, 1. One whose beauty radiates from the inside out. 2. One whose beauty does not rely on outside manipulation. 3. ME.

4. MacBook This has also been a long time love of mine. One day I will be able to go to the Apple Store and drop a thousand bones for it, but right now we’re trying to get our budget straight. But, just so you know, MAC is the best laptop out there.

5. Commitment My wife bought me a “Courage” print from this website. I searched the site and found the Commitment one. I work for the Board of Elections, and I know the importance of each vote. I know that my ancestors died for my right to vote, and I value that a lot. This will be the next print that I get.

6. ColorSplash App I don’t even have an iPhone yet, but I’ve searched the Apps on iTunes millions of times. The search for this one came about today. I am making Christmas cards for my co-worker Anna. She is a dog lover, and she plans to put her two dogs Odie and Pete on her cards. I plan to do the picture of them in black and white, and have their Santa outfits in Red and white. So, I did a search for a program that could do that, and ColorSplash was one of them.

7. Cable Cardigan I started knitting again, and was really excited about it. Then the holidays started approaching, and I began making cards to sell on my Etsy site. Now that I am pretty much done with that- except for making Anna’s cards, and the cards that my wife and I plan to send out – I can once again focus my attention on knitting. This sweater will be my first project. I am interested in seeing how long it will take me.

8. Celebrate Equality and Diversity in America If you read my blog, then you know that I am a lesbian. I am serious about diversity. It really pains me that we have not made more progress as far as diversity is concerned. I plan to get this tee shirt to wear to work on Casual Fridays.

9. Total Money Makeover This is where I am now. Working through Dave Ramsey’s money makeover plan. It is my goal to be debt free. No credit cards, nothing. I am so tired of being a slave to debt. It is so important to let this stuff go. We are planning a family, and when we do so, I don’t want any of the issues with debt to stand in our way.

10. African American Art Work I am so interested in African American art right now, especially when it has to do with women rockin’ natural hairstyles. This is a piece that I also want to get in our home. I think this would be a perfect addition. This decal can be purchased at Ten23Designs.

11. Golashes For some reason I have acquired this liking for Golashes. I am still looking for the perfect pair for me. I saw a cute pair in the DSW ad by Tommy Hilfiger. I have to go try them on to see how they fit. The last few times I tried some on they didn’t fit the way I wanted them to.

12. Nikon D90 Ok. This is another item that I have been wanting for a while. In case you all don’t know this about me, I will spend my last dime for others, but I am somewhat cheap when it comes to buying things for myself. This is on my “to buy” list.

13. Natural Hair I love anything to do with natural hair. I love to see photos of African American women rockin’ their natural hair styles. I love the way T’Keyah’s hair looks in this photo. This is my motivation. I am getting it cut tomorrow, and I will only have two inches of hair. This is what I have to look forward to.

It’s an amazing mind bending thing to marry a lady and wake up 30 years later and realize… “WOW, we’ve been married for 30 years already!” I can’t help but think “How’d we get here so fast?” I know it sounds like a long time… and when I hear of people who have been married for 50+ years I think that sounds like a long time, too; but the fact is, I still tend to relate to that time in my life as not that long ago. Funny how the human mind works.

But when I think of how many marriages end prematurely today, and how many friends who get divorced that I thought were doing okay, it really makes me stop and wonder… what’s so special about us? What’s so special about some of those folks who have been married for 50+ years?

Commitment.

Plain and simple.. it’s love, sure… but it’s commitment in those times when I haven’t “felt” like loving or when I haven’t necessarily been all that lovable. Yep, there’s been plenty of those times, just ask my bride.

But why do so many people consider it okay to quit on something they promised to God and to one another, not to give up on?

I added a line to the weddings I perform several years ago that I think sums up the “why” some people last and others don’t. Here it is… it’s not original and I don’t know who I stole it from… but it’s good.

From this point on you do not stay married because you love. You choose to love because you have made the commitment to be married.

I think the problem is that so many people are looking for the feelings to carry them through; but love is a choice and marriage is a choice, and a commitment, by both parties – first before God and to God, and then to one another.

My wife and I have experienced plenty of difficulties and probably have had our temptations to call it quits, like everyone else; but God’s grace and His strength is what has held us together for 30 years. We choose to love one another because we made the commitment, 30 years ago, to be husband and wife. When we have come up short of what’s needed, we have been able to draw on God’s ability… not because we necessarily FELT like it, but because our commitment and choice to love, DEMANDED it.

I’m not bragging or being prideful here. I don’t have anything to brag or be prideful about. God knows the struggles and He knows it hasn’t been my stellar behavior that has pulled us through; it’s all been Him. My hope is that maybe our testimony may encourage someone who may be struggling in their marriage and maybe they just might make the choice to keep loving because they made the commitment to be married.

For those who have experienced the pain and tragedy of divorce, I pray that God heals your heart and helps you find His strength to remain committed when it feels like the best way out is to quit. May that resolve flow from the example of God’s commitment to you.

By God’s grace, my wife and I are at 30 years of marriage, today. She’s still my friend and I plan to, with God’s grace, keep counting the years with her and growing more into the man God has called me to be. She’s been used by God, probably more than anyone or anything else, to help me develop into the person I am today. Thank you, Connie, for sticking with me in the process and being a willing instrument of God’s choosing to make me more into who He called me to be! I look forward to the time when we will stand before our God and hear Him say, “Well done!” Until then… thank you for your commitment to God and to me, through thick and thin. We’re not “done” yet, goose!

Looking forward to tacos tonight!

One of the questions we hear most often here at Leading and Loving It is “What tips do you have for raising children in ministry?” And to be honest it’s always the question I ask when I get time with adult PKs.  My children are still relatively small so I’m doing my learning as I go, but our oldest, Jett,  took a step of faith that left Pete and myself speechless.  I didn’t write the following post, my husband did.  I started to record this story from my perspective, but Pete’s was so beautiful that I decided to share it with you all.

As a father I feel as if I have the responsibility to teach my boys a lot of different things. Here’s just a few I’ve been thinking of…

How to ride a bike.

How to shave.

How to tie a tie.

How to dribble a ball.

How to love people you don’t like.

How to jump off really high stuff.

How to do a push-up.

How to understand women.

How to treat a woman.

But the most important thing I want to teach my boys…

How to trust a God they cannot see.

This past Sunday I watched hundreds of people make their commitment to Faith, Hope, & Love. Each commitment represented someone trusting God in a new and unique way. But the pledge that caught my attention was the one my 8 year old son filled out.

He pledged $50 (that he doesn’t have) to the vision of Cross Point Church. He later told me that God would provide a way for him to fulfill his commitment. This card represents a lot more than fifty bucks. It represents what is hopefully just the first of many adventures my son will have trusting a God he cannot see.

What do you want to make sure you’re teaching your kids?

Revelation 3:10-12 (Message)

“Because you kept my Word in passionate patience, I’ll keep you safe in the time of testing that will be here soon, and all over the earth, every man, woman, and child put to the test. I’m on my way; I’ll be there soon. Keep a tight grip on what you have so no one distracts you and steals your crown. I’ll make each conqueror a pillar in the sanctuary of my God, a permanent position of honor. Then I’ll write names on you, the pillars: the Name of my God, the Name of God’s City—the new Jerusalem coming down out of Heaven—and my new Name.”

The time of the return of Jesus Christ may be sooner than we think as prophecy daily is fulfilled with astonishing clarity. Cunning coincidence or clear revelation it is a time filled with great testing and trials for God’s Children to hope tight to their faith in the midst of great uncertainty. The world daily offers situations and circumstances designed to make an evil exchange of Jesus-based faith for enemy-derived fear. There is a spiritual struggle not to hang on to the faith woven in salvation and grown through painstaking perseverance. No one knows the day or hour of our Lord’s return. Yet there are things that God has given us in careful preparation for that day and then there are those unsuitable notions that the enemy has attempted to smuggle into our Spirit! Those who are able to “keep a tight grip” on what God has given us and avoid the distractions of the thief who wants to steal everything that is good are those who will be richly rewarded for their passionate patience.

Newborns arrive with the distinct ability to tightly grasp anything placed in their tiny palm. As they begin to grow, this grip reflex intensifies as their little human minds develop selfish wills refuse to release that which they covet. Unknowingly a baby will firmly grab things that are dangerous as their ability to discern such has not developed yet through knowledge and experience. Once they decide they want something, a child will simply refuse to let go. This often results in a struggle between worried parent and willful child to wrestle away the unwise choice. When born again, a person gains access to a peaceful and purposeful life. With a secure future and constant provision, there really is nothing to worry or be anxious for yet in our immaturity we choose to hold tightly to fear rather than release it to obtain the faith and the benefits found in a life based on it! The intense innate need to hold tightly to something has creating a generation motivated by fear and God is calling His Generation, His “Temple Pillars” to release their hold on fear and doubt and get a “tight grip” on faith-generated living that calls us to persevere, praise and pray under pressure. Those who can see beyond the order of the day to the Ordination of the New Jerusalem understanding the current state of affairs is no reflection on the future plan and promise of the Savior.

2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT)

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.

God has not given His Children the “gift” of fear so it is not something that we should readily hold on to. God has given us power, love and self-discipline. It is these things we should grab hold of with great passion and patience. Self-control allows us to choose that which we hold on to in life whether it is overwhelming faith or undermining fear is totally up to you. The Lord has called us to keep a tight grip on the reality of the spiritual realm and its impact not only on today but the future. Release those things that call you to doubt God and all that He has promised you! Jesus is offering power to the powerlessness, love to the unlovable and self-discipline to the undisciplined. What an offer? Three key characteristics for productive powerful living in exchange for completely worthless notions define the constant giving of our Savior. The Lord has plenty of good things for His Children to hang on to today! Release doubt and begin to take hold of all your Father has for you!

The first post might as well be the one where I outline the task at hand.  It’s as much a commitment to maintaining a positive attitude and faith that whatever happens ‘is all good’.  As we journey together I will share the story and together we will venture through the trials and tribulations of overcoming seemingly impossible odds – or at least very challenging circumstances.  Nothing is impossible with gods help and that is exactly what is needed.

Over $1m in debt – behind on all the bills including the house and the car and – a plan to earn money with $10 and $100 products.  It’s a tad daunting when the monthly cashflow is $20k.   Hence -the journey – step one is to make the commitment to succeed – to not let anyone down – most of all myself and my family.  And secondly, to share a journey so that others can be inspired and enouraged to overcome financial challenges too!!

When my family moved in the manse last September, we knew it wasn’t a permanent move.  I knew there would come a time when we needed a different location, and we would want to buy a home of our own.  With my church in Sidney and Kazy’s in Piqua we considered buying a home in either town or somewhere in-between, realizing at least one of us would have a little farther drive to the office.

The larger factor was deciding on a school district for our son.  Open enrollment enables us to apply to a school in a district outside of where we live, yet there is no guarantee from year to year that he would be accepted that year.  When Sidney schools withdrew full-day kindergarten, we were able to enroll in full-day kindergarten in Piqua, and we feel that this is the school system we prefer for him.  So we decided to buy a house in the Piqua School District served by the schools we want him to attend.  We have found a house in Piqua and are awaiting the confirmation of a closing date in December.  After that, you are welcome to visit us at 1820 Britton St.

This may be the first time you are hearing about this decision, or you may have been at the session meeting on November 12 when I announced it to the session, or in church on November 15 when I announced it to the congregation.

An apology

Whenever you heard this information for the first time, it was a surprise.  And that is due to my mistake.  I made a big decision about buying a home without bringing the congregation and officers into the process.  As I told the session, I know the value of process and communication.  I have even practiced both.  But in this case I didn’t.  I let you know after the deal was done.  I surprised you, and I am very sorry.

Concerns

If I had shown the good sense to bring the congregation and officers into this decision-making process I could have shared with you my family’s commitment to our calls here and the satisfaction Kazy and I each enjoy with congregations that are healthy and prepared to move forward.  You would have heard me describe what my family considers as the community we serve, two towns divided by some fourteen miles of highway; and of our commitment to buying a home that plants us firmly in the area.

This arrangement is similar to our previous three calls; where one of us has not lived in the town where our church has been.  In South Carolina Kazy drove about 30 miles each way to her church, on Long Island she drove twice that far.  In Syracuse we each drove about ten miles each way.

But I did not include you in the decision process, instead I surprised you with this news.  And I have heard your concerns about the decision.  You are used to your pastor living in the manse, or at least in town.  You are not used to your pastor’s spouse being a minister who serves another church in another town.  You wonder how I will be able to still be a part of the community.  You are concerned with what this means for First Presbyterian Church, and anxious when this situation reminds you of unpleasant previous experiences.

Covenant

For what it’s worth, here is my covenant to you.  After we move to Piqua I will keep the same hours at the office.  I will be available to you in the same ways; in person, by phone (office or cell), and e-mail.  For those of you who are so inclined, you may be in touch via Facebook and Twitter.  My availability for meetings after hours will be the same.  My move will not affect my ability to serve the community as I am currently involved with the YMCA, Ministerial Association, Sidney Schools, Alpha Center, Agape Distribution, Compassionate Care.  My commitment to these and other Sidney organizations will remain as strong as they are now.  I will work harder to make personal visits with you, and be especially sensitive to hearing you when you have concerns about this move.

I am used to living in the suburb and working and ministering in the city, or having a commute to the office. In Syracuse I was as involved in each of the urban areas where my churches were located – about 10 miles apart on the north and south end of the city, as I was in the suburban neighborhood where our house and our son’s school were.  In our marriage at least one of us has always commuted between house and parish, and we have been able to make it work.  In this case, I acknowledge that it will be up to me to prove that this can happen here, too.

Your Leaders

The article you are reading is a synopsis of the discussion I had with the session and of the sermon I preached on the dates I mentioned before.  I want you to know how proud I was to be at the table with the elders at our November session meeting.  Some of them were hearing this information for the first time.  We acknowledged the challenges with this new living situation and people were honest about their feelings.  We remained at the table as each one had an opportunity to express themselves.  I was proud to be among the elders, your leaders on the session who served their office well as they remained engaged with each other and with me as we got through a sometimes difficult conversation.

I accept the challenge from the session that it will be my responsibility to prove that this arrangement can work, and I pray that you will be encouraged as I do that, starting now.

When you bring your concerns and comments directly to me, I will be able to hear you and respond directly to you.  Sharing openly will set us free from mistaken assumptions or erroneous information and promote a common understanding in which we can move forward.

Grace and peace,

Pastor Joe

you,
like her:
to save me “from the last”

shall come- until your heart, as well,
be moved, like days, to pass..

and all will be forgiven
and all will be for love

and on again
and on again

till all are one above

~

i
like him
to save you from the last

shall seem-to you, “some perfect new”,
till none is left to grasp..

and all will be forgotten
for all is all for love

and on again
and on again

till all are one above

~

we
like all
are hopelessly amused

by all we show,
to all we “know”,
of others we have use[d]

and all will seem for nothing
tho all is such, in love

and on again
and on again

till none, at all, are left…

~

[the end.]

~

-sah

~

(music by prince; ‘solo‘)

Today’s Spam

Sometimes, it can drive a person to acts of nobility. Sometimes, it can drive a person to acts of sheer stupidity.  Imagine someone determined to beat a run time.  Imagine that person being so determined, so stubbornly against quitting, that they ignored signs that their body couldn’t handle it.  Depending on the circumstances, that person could wind up in a hospital.  Of course, that’s somewhat of an extreme example.  If said person is trying to beat a run time, chances are they’re already conditioned to run.

I digress.

Determination being stupid usually deals in long-term plans.  Say, something that takes place over a year.  You commit to a goal, and you pursue it, refusing to stray no matter what happens.  If you can do that, awesome.  I don’t pull it off to often personally.  Recently, I did commit to something, though, and it came back and bit me in the a**.  I realized that after I’d finished, I’d been so committed to the goal, that I forgot why I was doing it.  Now I regret it.  My only hope, really, is to figure out what the original plan was, and hope that redeems me somehow.

Anyways.

I’ll see if I can think of something creative to post later on in the week.  Maybe I’ll be really cliche and post a turkey, or a pilgrim, or something.

Today’s Thought:

This space intentionally left blank.

Time that it takes to read this post: 3 mins (approx.)

I was never quite interested in the video game hit Guitar Hero.  I wasn’t the first time around, nor was I with the multiple iterations over the last few years. I’m not quite interested in Rockband either and especially not interested in the the newest simulation -Dj Hero. Why? There’s just something about being a virtual musician which turns me off. That something is the lack of commitment.

“…whenever I hear someone complain that something is ‘boring’ or I hear ‘but teach me something new’, I know that they are not into mastery…fundamentals must be practiced daily…” -Anthony Robbins

To become a ‘real-life’ musician takes commitment. That is a commitment to practice. Practice means repetition, and although repetition is the mother of skill, repetition usually invokes a certain negative connotation: Boredom. Capital “B”.

So why on earth would you bother buying a real guitar (or drumkit/microphone/etc.) then taking lessons or teaching yourself and practicing and practicing and practicing and practicing to become a true musician (out of respect I will refrain from using the saying “becoming a true guitar hero”) – one who creates rather than imitates ?

Screw it, let’s mash a couple colored plastic buttons to Kansas or a Weezer song instead. Then we can practice our hand/eye coordination and timing to get a better high score. (Click here to see what happens when you ‘beat’ Guitar Hero, achieving the 1 million points high score)

Sigh…

Commitment can sometimes be a pain in the ass. Why? You must remain committed to your initial commitment, and that thought alone, depending on what outcome you are striving to reach, can become overwhelming. Becoming a musician, losing that belly fat, monotonous, err, monogamous relationships (I’m kidding), quitting smoking – these all require a commitment to remaining committed to the decision we initially took. Commitment goes hand in hand with maintaining a certain level of  consistency in our actions to reach our goal, and also with having a deeper meaning applied to the ‘why’ we are committed in the first place, a psychosomatic meaning/reason that will keep us motivated to reach our goals. Instead we do shows in virtual stadiums, we sit on the couch watching commercials about the weight loss secrets “they” don’t want us to know about, we try to find love at the club because we’re bored, we become occasional/”only when I drink” smokers.

“Carry on my wayward son…”

I blame the parents. I guess it’s less straining to your ears to hear the banter of plastic hitting plastic rather than the off-key, off-beat sounds of your child practicing on a real instrument. Yes I am pointing the finger at you, parents. A hundred dollars (the price of guitar hero) can buy your child a ’starter’ guitar or a mic + recording software or a drumkit. Maybe a little more for the drums.  Its bad enough that we’ve allowed the government to make funding cuts which allowed/forced our (Canadian) educational institutions to remove music and arts from the curriculum, now we’re also taking music and arts out of households as well? Even after the dozens of examples of published research which has been able to show direct intellectual benefits (not to mention the emotional, spiritual, physical benefits) that a child receives by creative expression through music.

I’ve always acknowledged that my opinion is not your opinion and that’s what makes life interesting, so if you do enjoy playing Guitar Hero, or your child does, I thought I’d let you in on the 2010 edition that was leaked a little earlier this weekend:

“Coming Q1 2010: Guitar Hero Hero:

Game publishers have hooked people on simulating the playing of real instruments, what about simulating the simulation of playing real instruments? Players would use their regular console controller to direct the actions of an in-game character playing a plastic guitar, who in turn strums along to music he watches on his TV. This will be the beginning of a Guitar Hero Moebius strip, like a painting of a painting, where players sink deeper into a never-ending well of simulation, further removing themselves from reality and making us game makers richer every step of the way.”

Sounds exciting! I will definitely be lining up at midnight in the freezing cold for this version!

(The quoted material above was taken from a cbc.ca article by Peter Nowak – click here to read his original post)

Thank you for connecting with me,

Cooper

Results – goals, objectives, outcomes, targets and a plethora of other terms are used to specify what we and others want to achieve.

If you have an ambition to increase your income, to start a business, (either full-time or part-time), to manage your finances, to grow and manage your wealth, to increase your understanding and skills in online marketing, then you’ve come to the right place.

This programme helps you think through and structure your goals and objectives, helps you make an emotional connection with these goals (so important in order to stick with them) and then make a plan to achieve them.

Beyond that, we provide you with ongoing support and resources to hold your hand through the journey until you reach the destination.

Each journey starts with a single step. Take your first step and click here to enter your contact details, so we can guide you through the next steps to your success.

Mark.

You know, not long ago I woke up and I had a little “pity party.” I was kind of feeling bad.  I had been traveling a lot, and that day I was flying out of state to do something I had agreed to do over a year earlier. And I was thinking, “Wow, I’ve had enough of travel.” I’d just as soon have stayed home with Margie and our dog Joy and gone up to the office and hugged everybody. So I was having a pretty good pity party. And then I just kind of backed off. I read my mission statement and my obituary and my values—and I realized that there must be some reason I was going there. Maybe somebody really needed the message I was going to bring; maybe somebody really needed something I could help them with. You know, if you’re going to make the word a better place, you do it by the moment-to-moment decisions you make as you interact with other people. So I just kind of pumped myself up and said, “Okay, Blanchard, you’re here to make the world a little bit better, so stop with the pity party. You’ve just got another new audience—a new group of people.” And maybe, just maybe, I did make a little bit of a difference in someone’s life.

So if you ever have those feelings, you know—“Monday, oh my God. I’ve got to go back to work,” or whatever—the reality is that we’re really wonderfully blessed. We have to keep on reminding ourselves when we get into our pity party to just get up. Because somebody always has it worse than we have it. Somebody has some problems and maybe we can help—whether it be a customer or coworker, family member, or friend. So no more pity parties. Although it is good to recognize that we can all fall into that mood, the way out, especially this week, is positive thinking, giving thanks for what you do have,  and realizing that we are really here to make a difference.

I love watching sports, especially the NBA. The team I follow closely is the Los Angeles Lakers, but I would watch any team. I love following the statistics of the season leading up to the playoffs and ultimately finishing in the NBA Finals. But one thing I have never understood is the preseason. Who wants to watch a game that doesn’t really matter? Although not fun to watch, preseason training and games are vitally important in the outcome of a team. During the preseason a team can practice specific plays, work out the kinks in their offense and defense, try out new plays, and ultimately improve their conditioning for the regular season.

We should treat our New Year’s Resolutions this way. Can you relate to this scenario? On the night of December 31st you write down on a scratch piece of paper some lofty goals fully intending to keep them. By January 18th you’re slipping on your diet, missing days on your Bible reading schedule, and spending less time with family than you were last year.

My suggestion is to start “Preseason Resolutions.” Starting your resolutions before January 1st gives you a head start on making them permanent.

Here are a few reasons that I think everyone should start their New Year’s Resolutions on December 11th.

It’s better to train than to try
I could try running a marathon next week, but in my current physical condition, I probably wouldn’t make it past the first water break. I could try benching 350 pounds, but it would be followed quickly by a trip to the hospital. Instead of giving your goals a “try”, why not commit to training properly for them?

It takes 21 days to form a habit
Practice makes permanent.  Studies have shown that it take 21 days to form a habit.  Instead of starting your New Year’s resolutions as experiments, continue them as habits.

It’s easier to keep going when you are ahead
Momentum is a powerful motivational tool.  The 3 weeks of preseason will start your new year on the run instead of from the starting blocks.

It gives you time to fine tune your goals
Life is always changing and so are our goals.  Most of our resolutions go through multiple transitions before they are fine tuned to fit our lifestyle and schedules.  Have you ever started a goal only to find out that you need to adjust it later? Why not do all your tweaking in December?

Proverbs 16:15 (Amplified)

In the light of the king’s countenance is life, and his favor is as a cloud bringing the spring rain.

In the subtle sound of the falling rain is peace, it makes an environment of serenity. Could it be our humble beginning in our mother’s womb draws us to the sound of water for comfort and peace? Is it the sound of the gentle rhythm like a serenade that causes the heart to relax and beat in tune? Maybe it is the covering of clouds that hang over like a canopy to shield the sun? It is the gentle rain that calls people to covered porches with comfortable chairs to watch as the earth is replenished and nurtured right before their eyes. The soft falling droplets that wash away the dirt, dust and debris that has built up over time to reveal the potential of what is beneath it call to those who seek. It is incredible the peace that a light rain can bring to a busy day as it may interrupt a busy schedule to make a new relaxing plan.

Throughout God’s Word, there are many references to seasons of rain in the life of God’s Children from the gentle rains shared to the harsh storms linked to the Judgment of God. Today let’s focus on the light showers of a Loving Father. Is there a storm cloud in sight? Maybe its presence has caused momentary agitation as your day that was carefully planned has been interrupted and your mind must change its course of action. The formation of the cloud causes worry to furrow the brow as time is short and more is coveted. Interruptions are seldom welcomed as they are clearly not on the “to do” list. Our minds are full of the things that we “just have to do” as the inconvenience of rain threatens.

“His Favor is as a cloud bringing the spring rain…” Why is spring rain important? It washes away the debris of the winter and prepares the soil for the next season. A time of renewal is in the light consistent showers of spring. It nourishes new potential. There is a revelation of purpose in the work of the water flows. It calms the soul and brings light to the new day. God’s Favor is like the clouds. In the Presence of God is a season of rain and it enters your life like a cloud. No one really knows what a cloud may hold whether a heavy downpour or a few sprinkles. It calls the attention of those who have carefully laid plans and agendas. It halts such things as we focus on the potential of the rain. God desires to rain in your life today! It is a downpour of peace, love, mercy, grace, and favor. Peace calls the mind to silence. Love elevates the voice of our heart. Mercy covers the many times we have failed and grace all those other times we surely will. Then there is favor and that takes care of every other detail in life! All this packed in the cloud that draws our attention from our plans to God’s!

Psalm 65:9-11 (NLT)

You take care of the earth and water it, making it rich and fertile. The river of God has plenty of water; it provides a bountiful harvest of grain for you have ordered it so. You drench the plowed ground with rain, melting the clods and leveling the ridges. You soften the earth with showers and bless its abundant crops. You crown the year with a bountiful harvest; even the hard pathways overflow with abundance.

Gentle rain is God’s invitation for a visit today! It is a call to set aside your plans, wipe clean the slate and spend time in the “King’s Countenance”. Everything that one may seek is available in His Presence and so much more. His Favor is set to shine on those who make way for arrival. God’s rain showers in life will melt hard hearts and level uncertain futures. Is Jesus calling to you in the gentle rain today? The Lord desires to bless you! He is anxious to pour His Favor into your life so take a few moments to soak up His Rain today! Everything you need for a successful prospering life is in each drop of His Downpour. Accept it! Dance in God’s Presence! Oblivious to the world that begs for sunshine, pray for rain!

Something very interesting was brought to my attention with regard to relationships. 

A woman told me that she is not surprised that some men have a difficult time committing because most men she meets cannot even commit to paying their insurance, cell phone bill, rent, or cable bill! 

I had never thought about one’s ability to commit in that way, but it makes perfect sense, so pay attention to those things when considering a partner.

Benaiah chased a lion down into a pit. Then, despite the snow and slippery ground, he caught the lion and killed it.
II Samuel 23:20

I read a great book this week, In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day, by Mark Batterson. The concept of the book is taken from a passage in II Samuel, a scripture that I might have read a time or two … but never really gave much thought.  This guy, Benaiah, was a valiant fighter who performed great exploits, according to the passage.  One day he actually chased a lion down into a pit and killed it.  I mean really?   He then went on to be in charge of King David’s Bodyguard and then Commander in Chief of King Soloman’s army.  Pretty impressive resume.

I wonder what he was thinking that day …  Hey, I think I’ll go kill myself a lion?

He actually chased the lion … and he won!  And he went on to have an amazing career in Israel’s army under the two most powerful Kings of all times!

David knew a little about lions and bears and giants. When he was pleading with King Saul to let him fight the giant, Goliath, he shared that he had actually killed a lion and a bear in his father’s pastures, while tending to the sheep.  Scripture tells us that David ran quickly towards Goliath that infamous day, and he won! (I Samuel 17).   And he went on to become King of Israel!

In his book, Mark says:  Your greatest regret at the end of your life will be the lions you didn’t chase. You will look back longingly on risks not taken, opportunities not seized, and dreams not pursued. Stop running away from what scares you most and start chasing the God-ordained opportunities that cross your path.

Your greatest regrets will be the lions you didn’t chase … I love that!

I don’t want regrets in my life.  I want to take the risks.  I want to pursue the dreams that God has given me.

I want to be a lion chaser.

Thank you Jesus for giving us dreams to pursue and lions to chase.  Help us Lord to not be complacent with status quo or comfortable.  Ignite that spark in each of our souls Lord to seek after YOU with our entire being.

   I love you Jesus!
   In your name I pray,
   Amen

God’s Blessings To You!

Love,
Joyce

It’s All Because Of Jesus!

For better or for worse.
For better or FOR WORSE.
FOR BETTER OR FOR WORSE…

In sickness, insanity, and stupidity;
through bad decisions and poor judgments;
in the midst of sin and shortcomings;
during disagreements and misunderstandings:
I’ll stand by you through the worst. Because love is a verb, not just a feeling. It’s a commitment. There’s no loophole, there’s no back door through which to slip out.

God has loved us. For better and for worse. Through our sickness and our health, through our riches and our rags, through our accomplishments and failures- His love is continuous and never-ending. We can be the most despicable scum of the earth, ugly in our sins, repulsive, bitter, and violent against Him- and yet He still loves us. We can chase after other lovers, defile our hearts and commit adultery against our Maker- and He still love us. He will always take us back.
Our God loves us, and He’s committed to us.
HE NEVER GIVES UP ON US.

This is the love we aim for- to give and to receive.
The greatest demonstration of love is to stick with someone when they are unlovable. And perhaps that person will never love you back. You may spend the rest of your life loving your spouse who doesn’t deserve it and will never give back to you. It may seem like an utter waste, but you are honoring God with such an action. As He loves us, we ought to love one another- most especially the ones we are joined to in marriage, the ones whom we have committed to for better or for worse.

It’s that simple. It can be terribly hard, but I believe it’s really that black and white simple. Quitting should never be an option. Leaving should never be an option. If it is, then your marriage is pointless and your commitment means nothing.

Dear God in heaven, teach me how to love. Teach me sacrificial love, how to lay down my own desires- my very life- for another. Teach me how to love even when it hurts. I want to love the way You do.