"Daddy, over here, come look at this one." 7 yrs old Valerie shouted as she peered into the Bon Marche window. "Oh look! The bear is dancing around the Christmas tree, " she chatted on. "I like this one," 9 yr. old Sandra responded. "The baby bear just waved at me."
Our family of four was enjoying all the animated displays that graced the windows of the large department stores in downtown Seattle. When we we arrived at Nordstrom's we headed inside to ride the escalator to the top. "This is so much fun," Valerie laughed as we'd run around to catch the rolling steps to the next floor up. Floor after floor, we worked our way up above the bautiful decorations we could see far below. When we arrived at the top, the girls headed for the line to wait their turn to ride the Christmas train which followed tracks around the top floor. None of us stopped to look at the merchandise. After their ride we just giggled our way back to the escalator for the excitement of conquering all the floors down.
As we headed up the street enjoying the decorations and lights, the four of us held hands and harmonized on Jingle Bells. We didn't notice if people were staring, we just focused on our fun. We ended our day by going into a bank building that housed a beautiful baby grand piano in its foyer. I sat down and began to play Christmas carols. Don and the girls joined me with their voices. Soon others, gathered around the piano, singing along. For a short while we had our own Christmas choir, exchanging their hustle and bustle for a few moments of holiday cheer.
Having traditions were important to our family. Every year we all looked forward to our day in the big city. We didn't go to spend money. We went to build rich memories which would bring smiles for years to come.
This year I begin a new era in my family celebration, as my little great grandson transports us into the 3rd generation of hunting for stockings, and playing our traditional family games. I'm looking forward to the giggles and excitement as the grandchildren initiates Daniel into their familiar jollity.
The biggest news in our family for 2011 was experienced by Danielle and her husband, Darren. They've had three milestones in their lives:
1. They both graduated from Southwestern University of the Assemblies of God: Darren's degree in youth ministry and Danielle's in general ministry.
2. On January 25, 2011, their son, Daniel Thomas Laycock 3rd was born, weighing in at a hefty 9 lbs. 15 oz. This little guy has brought so much joy to our clan.
3. On Octorber 2nd, they became full time youth pastor/ associates at Snohomish Faith Assembly in Snohomish, Washington. They love working with Pastor Rod and Lori Ashley and the people at SFA. It seems to be a perfect fit.
The rest of our family members are journeying down the same paths they were on last year. The adults are working hard at their occupations and the grandchildren are growing older: two married, two in college, two in high school and two in middle school. They are busy with jobs, sports, music, and church events. I am blessed to live close enough to be a part of all their endeavors.
It's great to have family celebrations that are fun and memorable but I believe it is also important to have customs which will help everyone to remember the real reason for the season. Reading or acting out the Christmas story, a birthday party with cake or each family member deciding on a gift to give to Jesus this year; such as, a senior citizen that we commit to help, a school mate that needs a friend, a young family that needs a babysitter so they can have a night out, etc. "And the King will tell them, 'I assure you, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me.'" Matthew 25:40
Every day I am more incredibly thankful that we can "Cast all our anxiety on Him because He care for us." (I Peter 5:7 personalized) Two weeks ago a precious extended family member had a massive heart attack. Family and friends have been in constant prayer for him. Sometimes when the doctor's report was not good, all we could do was say, "Jesus" over and over. "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe." (Proverbs 18:10) Just saying His name puts us in a safe place so we can trust the outcome to Him. Thankfully, our loved one is "out of the woods," says his doctor. Celebrating the gift of Jesus is even more precious to the Hines Family this year.
My wish for you is "that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints, and His incomparably great power for us who believe.." (Ephesians 1:18,19) Remember "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith, and this not from yourselves, IT IS THE GIFT OF GOD." (Ephesisans 2:8)
Christmas Blessings, Patricia
"Thank God for this gift, His gift. No language can praise it enough."
(2 Corinthians 9:15 The Message)
Monday, December 19, 2011
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
A Summer Not Remembered
Summer is over. The pipes are winterized, the yard decor put away, and the porch furniture covered. Autumn has colored our world and winter is quickly approaching but somehow my mind returns to the relaxing, sunny days I missed this year.
Life took a change for me on May 25th while playing the piano at our weekly chapel service. A pain swept through my body that bent me over double. I later learned I had gallstones and needed to have my gallbladder removed. I thought I would see a surgeon, set a date, and would be recuperating before the lazy days of summer appeared. Due to a very thorough and compassionate internist, I spent the three months of summer in medical appointments, taking all kinds of test to determine my health status.
The best part of the process was all the time I spent with my daughter, Valerie. She went to every appointment with me, and became my advocate with the medical personnel. Her viewpoints resulted in every area of my health being addressed. The waiting times and trips to and from were spent in good conversation, hearty laughs, and coffee breaks. I always come away from times with Val being emotionally and spiritually refreshed.
One of my concerns for the process was how I would be able to pay all the co-pays for these medical appointments and treatments. Some were only $10 or $15. Others were up to $200. This extra expense, along with added gasoline, taxed my income to the limit. As usual, I went to the One who "owns the cattle on a thousand hills" (Psalm 50:10) He provided the needs through an unexpected refund check, and the "giving heart" of my next door neighbor.
Cliff is a very kind and generous senior citizen with a serving spirit. Even though he has some health challenges, he brings in my garbage cans or offers to pick up my mail for me. When he found out I couldn't afford to get the daily paper anymore, he started refolding his paper after he read it and left it on my porch. I've so enjoyed having the paper to read again.
To my surprise, one day lying with the paper was a half box of tangelos. Cliff said they were on sale and he couldn't eat the whole box himself. Since that first gift of food, it is not unusual to find some type of fruit, vegetables, or other food staples by my door. He watches for sales and joyfully shares them with me. He has shared everything from eggs to complete yummy meals he has cooked. I have been so blessed, often with a food item I couldn' have afforded myself.
Recently I was working on my finances and wondering how I had paid all the extra expenses this summer. I couldn't hold back the tears when I realized how much lower my food bill had been. God reminded me that I had eaten a wonderful variety of fruits and other summer favorites while being able to save enough on my food bill to meet the added medical co-pays. I shouldn't be amazed, but I always stand in awe at how my wonderful Father so creatively shows His love and care for this often needed child of His.
On August 31st I had my surgery. With the good care from my daughters, I recuperated from the operation, a painful pulled muscle, and a bout with infection. Before I realized what had happened, it was the end of September and all the usual activities of warm days had passed by me. It was time to prepare for the cold days ahead.
I may not remember having a summer this year, but I will never forget how God met my needs and took care of me. "Those who know Your name will trust in You, for You, Lord, have NEVER forsaken those who seek You." (Psalm 9:10)
This week we are celebrating Thanksgiving. I could sit all day recalling all the things I'm thankful for but I'd rather spend my time praising the One who has made it all possible. "Praise the Lord, O my soul. I will praise the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live." (Psalm 146:1)
Life took a change for me on May 25th while playing the piano at our weekly chapel service. A pain swept through my body that bent me over double. I later learned I had gallstones and needed to have my gallbladder removed. I thought I would see a surgeon, set a date, and would be recuperating before the lazy days of summer appeared. Due to a very thorough and compassionate internist, I spent the three months of summer in medical appointments, taking all kinds of test to determine my health status.
The best part of the process was all the time I spent with my daughter, Valerie. She went to every appointment with me, and became my advocate with the medical personnel. Her viewpoints resulted in every area of my health being addressed. The waiting times and trips to and from were spent in good conversation, hearty laughs, and coffee breaks. I always come away from times with Val being emotionally and spiritually refreshed.
One of my concerns for the process was how I would be able to pay all the co-pays for these medical appointments and treatments. Some were only $10 or $15. Others were up to $200. This extra expense, along with added gasoline, taxed my income to the limit. As usual, I went to the One who "owns the cattle on a thousand hills" (Psalm 50:10) He provided the needs through an unexpected refund check, and the "giving heart" of my next door neighbor.
Cliff is a very kind and generous senior citizen with a serving spirit. Even though he has some health challenges, he brings in my garbage cans or offers to pick up my mail for me. When he found out I couldn't afford to get the daily paper anymore, he started refolding his paper after he read it and left it on my porch. I've so enjoyed having the paper to read again.
To my surprise, one day lying with the paper was a half box of tangelos. Cliff said they were on sale and he couldn't eat the whole box himself. Since that first gift of food, it is not unusual to find some type of fruit, vegetables, or other food staples by my door. He watches for sales and joyfully shares them with me. He has shared everything from eggs to complete yummy meals he has cooked. I have been so blessed, often with a food item I couldn' have afforded myself.
Recently I was working on my finances and wondering how I had paid all the extra expenses this summer. I couldn't hold back the tears when I realized how much lower my food bill had been. God reminded me that I had eaten a wonderful variety of fruits and other summer favorites while being able to save enough on my food bill to meet the added medical co-pays. I shouldn't be amazed, but I always stand in awe at how my wonderful Father so creatively shows His love and care for this often needed child of His.
On August 31st I had my surgery. With the good care from my daughters, I recuperated from the operation, a painful pulled muscle, and a bout with infection. Before I realized what had happened, it was the end of September and all the usual activities of warm days had passed by me. It was time to prepare for the cold days ahead.
I may not remember having a summer this year, but I will never forget how God met my needs and took care of me. "Those who know Your name will trust in You, for You, Lord, have NEVER forsaken those who seek You." (Psalm 9:10)
This week we are celebrating Thanksgiving. I could sit all day recalling all the things I'm thankful for but I'd rather spend my time praising the One who has made it all possible. "Praise the Lord, O my soul. I will praise the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live." (Psalm 146:1)
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Three Wishes
Recently my 15 yr. old granddaughter, Meghan and 16 yr. old grandson, Dalton, were asked to team teach their Sunday School class. Valerie and I slipped into the back of the classroom to listen to the kids teach. We were very impressed with the way these young teens took the Scripture and made it personal and relevant for their peers. It brought tears to my eyes to hear my grandchildren share God's Word and speak with personal assurance of God's role in their lives.
To illustrate a point, Meghan shared an experience she had when she was about 10 years old. She had been watching a cartoon at my home about a young girl that was given any three wishes she wanted. The cartoon was still on Meghan's mind as I was driving her home. "I know what you would wish if you had three wishes," Meghan blurted out to me. "I know you would wish for Opa to come back," she continued before I could comment. "No, I don't think so," I responded. "As much as I miss opa, I would never want him to have to come back from his wonderful home with Jesus. Instead, my first wish would be that all our family can be together with Opa in heaven someday."
Meghan sat quietly for a few minutes and then she barely whispered, "I know what my three wishes would be." Can you share them with me?" I asked. "First, I would wish that we would have the money to buy some oil so we can have heat in our house," she volunteered. "Second, I would wish that my mom could buy some grocieries so she could make us meals, and third, I would wish for blinds on our windows so my brother, sister, and me wouldn't be scared at night when mon and dad are at work." My heart felt like it was being crushed as I heard the wishes of this child who should never have to be concerned with these necessities of life.
Before Meghan left the car, I prayed with her that God would answer her prayers and meet the needs of their family. I cried and prayed all the way home. I knew the kids had been coming home from school and sitting around the oven in order to stay warm. At night they dreaded going to their cold bedrooms. Even though their dad had recently found employment again, they were too far behind to buy oil any time soon. It was going to take a miracle for Meghan's prayers to be answered.
As Meghan said to the young people in her class, "we serve the God of miracles." Within a few days the answers started coming. Her grandparents in California called the oil company and had them fill the tank. Someone sent Sandra a generous gift card to Costco as well as had Swan's deliver some of their products to their home. To everyone's surprise, Sears called and said they had decided to make right the custom-made blinds which had ended up the wrong size; although, months earlier they had insisted it was not their fault and they would not cover the expenses to fix them. Meghan and I hadn't told anyone about her prayer request but God had answered all three wishes in about a week.
Dalton took the floor in the Sunday School class and asked if any of the young people would like to share what they needed God to do in their lives. As the teenagers were giving their request I couldn't get a verse in Isaiah out of my mind:
"I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking to me about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers." (Isaiah 65:24 NLT) My heart was filled with thanksgiving as I was reminded how God had heard the heart's cry of a 10 year old and today as a young teenager she was assuring her peers that He was there for them also.
Valerie and I slipped out of the classroom with a prayer on our hearts that each of these young people would be confident to pray as David did: "You are forgiving and good, O Lord, abounding in love to all who call to you. Hear my prayer, O Lord; listen to my cry for mercy. In the day of my trouble I will call to you for you will answer me." (Psalm 86:5-7 NIV) Yes, Meghan and Dalton, we do serve a God of miracles and it is awesome that you have learned this truth at a young age.
To illustrate a point, Meghan shared an experience she had when she was about 10 years old. She had been watching a cartoon at my home about a young girl that was given any three wishes she wanted. The cartoon was still on Meghan's mind as I was driving her home. "I know what you would wish if you had three wishes," Meghan blurted out to me. "I know you would wish for Opa to come back," she continued before I could comment. "No, I don't think so," I responded. "As much as I miss opa, I would never want him to have to come back from his wonderful home with Jesus. Instead, my first wish would be that all our family can be together with Opa in heaven someday."
Meghan sat quietly for a few minutes and then she barely whispered, "I know what my three wishes would be." Can you share them with me?" I asked. "First, I would wish that we would have the money to buy some oil so we can have heat in our house," she volunteered. "Second, I would wish that my mom could buy some grocieries so she could make us meals, and third, I would wish for blinds on our windows so my brother, sister, and me wouldn't be scared at night when mon and dad are at work." My heart felt like it was being crushed as I heard the wishes of this child who should never have to be concerned with these necessities of life.
Before Meghan left the car, I prayed with her that God would answer her prayers and meet the needs of their family. I cried and prayed all the way home. I knew the kids had been coming home from school and sitting around the oven in order to stay warm. At night they dreaded going to their cold bedrooms. Even though their dad had recently found employment again, they were too far behind to buy oil any time soon. It was going to take a miracle for Meghan's prayers to be answered.
As Meghan said to the young people in her class, "we serve the God of miracles." Within a few days the answers started coming. Her grandparents in California called the oil company and had them fill the tank. Someone sent Sandra a generous gift card to Costco as well as had Swan's deliver some of their products to their home. To everyone's surprise, Sears called and said they had decided to make right the custom-made blinds which had ended up the wrong size; although, months earlier they had insisted it was not their fault and they would not cover the expenses to fix them. Meghan and I hadn't told anyone about her prayer request but God had answered all three wishes in about a week.
Dalton took the floor in the Sunday School class and asked if any of the young people would like to share what they needed God to do in their lives. As the teenagers were giving their request I couldn't get a verse in Isaiah out of my mind:
"I will answer them before they even call to me. While they are still talking to me about their needs, I will go ahead and answer their prayers." (Isaiah 65:24 NLT) My heart was filled with thanksgiving as I was reminded how God had heard the heart's cry of a 10 year old and today as a young teenager she was assuring her peers that He was there for them also.
Valerie and I slipped out of the classroom with a prayer on our hearts that each of these young people would be confident to pray as David did: "You are forgiving and good, O Lord, abounding in love to all who call to you. Hear my prayer, O Lord; listen to my cry for mercy. In the day of my trouble I will call to you for you will answer me." (Psalm 86:5-7 NIV) Yes, Meghan and Dalton, we do serve a God of miracles and it is awesome that you have learned this truth at a young age.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Seeing Clear Again
I just came back from Costco where I picked up my new glasses. It felt so nice to look at the reading chart and be able to read the words without trying to focus better. I'm grateful to not have broken frames that don't stay in place. Most of all I thank God for providing all my needs so I could get the glasses.
I'm very careful to have my eyes checked every two years but for the last three appointments I haven't been able to get the glasses. It wasn't so bad because my sight stayed about the same. This year my frames broke and even with getting them repaired once, they still didn't work well.
For about a year I have been praying that God would help me get the finances together for a new pair of glasses. I saved my Christmas money and sold some tires and all together I had $170.00. Two days before my eye appointment I pulled out my file to see what my glasses had cost the last time. My heart dropped when I realized they had cost me $268.00. That meant I was at least $100.00 short. I was disappointed but decided to have my eye exam and keep working towards the finances needed to get them later.
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord."
(Isa. 55:8) God had already taken care of the situation. That same afternoon when I picked up the mail I was fascinated by a small silver envelope that seemed extra stuffed. I opened it and 5 twenty dollar bills fell out. My eyes watered so quickly I could hardly read the note attached. There was no explanation for the money, just a sweet note saying I was loved and had been in her prayers. This dear saint of God had no idea I had a need but she was quick to obey God's still small voice deep within her heart. I never cease to be amazed at the goodness of our Lord and the kindness and obedience of His children.
Valerie went with me to my eye appointment and helped me pick out the frames. When the bill was added and handed to me, I went weak. It was $418.00. I learned they no longer paid for any part of the glasses, only the eye exam. Valerie looked at me and said, "Mom, God has a plan. We are not giving up now." We went to Costco and ended up getting a better pair of glasses, with an upgrade in lenses for $274.90. I only had to come up with an additional $4.90. I was so excited and humbled by the experience that I gave my testimony to the optical assistant and everyone I saw that day.
"The Lord is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all His creation. I will thank you, Lord and will bless You. I will talk with others about the glory of your kingdom and celebrate examples of your power. I will tell about your mighty deeds and about the majesty and glory of your reign." (Psalm 145:9-12, NLT personalized) These glasses will never be just an ordinary means of seeing better. Each time I put them on, I will remember how a compassionate God helped this widow see clearly again how much she is loved and cared for.
I'm very careful to have my eyes checked every two years but for the last three appointments I haven't been able to get the glasses. It wasn't so bad because my sight stayed about the same. This year my frames broke and even with getting them repaired once, they still didn't work well.
For about a year I have been praying that God would help me get the finances together for a new pair of glasses. I saved my Christmas money and sold some tires and all together I had $170.00. Two days before my eye appointment I pulled out my file to see what my glasses had cost the last time. My heart dropped when I realized they had cost me $268.00. That meant I was at least $100.00 short. I was disappointed but decided to have my eye exam and keep working towards the finances needed to get them later.
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord."
(Isa. 55:8) God had already taken care of the situation. That same afternoon when I picked up the mail I was fascinated by a small silver envelope that seemed extra stuffed. I opened it and 5 twenty dollar bills fell out. My eyes watered so quickly I could hardly read the note attached. There was no explanation for the money, just a sweet note saying I was loved and had been in her prayers. This dear saint of God had no idea I had a need but she was quick to obey God's still small voice deep within her heart. I never cease to be amazed at the goodness of our Lord and the kindness and obedience of His children.
Valerie went with me to my eye appointment and helped me pick out the frames. When the bill was added and handed to me, I went weak. It was $418.00. I learned they no longer paid for any part of the glasses, only the eye exam. Valerie looked at me and said, "Mom, God has a plan. We are not giving up now." We went to Costco and ended up getting a better pair of glasses, with an upgrade in lenses for $274.90. I only had to come up with an additional $4.90. I was so excited and humbled by the experience that I gave my testimony to the optical assistant and everyone I saw that day.
"The Lord is good to everyone. He showers compassion on all His creation. I will thank you, Lord and will bless You. I will talk with others about the glory of your kingdom and celebrate examples of your power. I will tell about your mighty deeds and about the majesty and glory of your reign." (Psalm 145:9-12, NLT personalized) These glasses will never be just an ordinary means of seeing better. Each time I put them on, I will remember how a compassionate God helped this widow see clearly again how much she is loved and cared for.
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