Happy Transfiguration Sunday...??

LOL....most people probably don't even know what the heck that means! But if you're a church person, then u might! I always call this Sunday "Jesus' Sequin Sunday"! LOL....if you know the story of the transfiguration then you may know why...if not, I'll leave ya hanging. But you can read about it in Luke 9:28-36.

So this week is the beginning of the Lenten season. It's always a time for me to give up something for my Lenten journey, but for the last few years I have instead done some sort of community project. This year, I think I am going to help at a local soup kitchen once a week. I may still give up something just out of habit. Lent for me has always been a time for a renewal of my personal relationship with God. A time to rededicate my commitment to God. A time to meditate and ponder why I believe what I believe. This poses a challenge this year, as this is ALSO the concentration of one of my classes this semester.

I decided this semester to start getting more musically involved in the local church I attend, St. Peter's and also here at the seminary. I am also looking into singing in a local community choir as well. I had decided that last semester, I really wanted to focus on "my call"' and concentrate on my classes. I soon found out how much music ministry had impacted my life. I felt such a void in not singing and how it impacted my personal relationship to God. It became extremely difficult for me to sit in a congregation to "hear" a choir singing without me. I played my guitar a few times last semester, but it just didn't seem to be enough. Then after listening to Ben Larson's story, I then and there decided I could ignore the gifts God gave me anymore. As I shared with some fellow colleagues this week, I just can't imagine getting to the gates of heaven and saying to God, "Sorry, I know you gave me the gift of song and music in my life. I just decided not to use it!" So....music is now back in my life and I am sooo glad!

Today is also Valentine's Day. I can recall several years ago taking me and dog, Sam, camping during the Valentine's weekend. I had gotten just all caught up and depressed about spending another Valentine's Day ALONE, SINGLE, yada, yada, yada. Then I came to a realization. That this holiday is nothing more than a card, candy and flowers opportunity day to make lots of money. People SHOULD be sharing and celebrating their love relationships everyday! Most people don't even appreciate the love they have in their lives. And its not just about a significant other. It's about celebrating friends, children, co-workers, our military personnel, the leaders of our cities, states and nations. (OK, the last one may be pushing it!) But it is a day to make sure you are saying I LOVE YOU to someone! Personally, I always take a few minutes to tell God how much I love him and thank him for everything he provides and gives us everyday. I am very blessed! Make sure you take the time to say I LOVE YOU to someone today. I think it'd bring a smile to someone's face and make someone feel special. And doing good deeds for others....isn't that what life is all about? Peace and many blessing! Happy Valentines!