WELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy Life

Bret Lott knows how to make a woman cry. Possibly a man, too, but I'm not sure. I know he's cried (sobbed, he admitted) when reading Leif Enger's book, Peace Like a River. I already liked Bret Lott but that made me like him even more. Bret Lott, award-winning author of now 16 books (both fiction and non-fiction) didn't start out to become a writer and, in fact, met obstacles along the way. I'm glad he persevered; if you've read Jewel, one of Oprah's Book Club selections, then I'm sure you're glad as well. He wanted to ride a horse and be a Park Ranger. Grateful that didn't pan out. Fun sidenote: Since I'm also from Southern California, it was a delight to find out that Bret used to work at Knott's Berry Farm at the candy apple booth and once-a-month he made waffles for Mr. Knott. Bret is giving away a signed copy of his latest book out this month entitled: GATHER THE OLIVES, On Food and Hope and the Holy Land - comment below or on social media to be entered! Born in Los Angeles in 1958, Lott grew up in Buena Park, CA and Phoenix, AZ before returning to California to live in Huntington Beach, CA. He met and married his wife of 40 years, Melanie Swank Lott, at First Baptist Church of Huntington Beach/Fountain Valley. A graduate of Cal State, Long Beach(1981), Lott headed to Massachusetts for graduate school at UMass Amhurst. He received his MFA in 1984 and landed his first teaching position at Ohio State Univ. In 1986, Lott joined the English Department at the College of Charleston, where he is now a tenured professor and director of the new MFA program and leads writers retreats to Italy. Find out more about his writing retreats here: https://bretlottwriting.com Be sure to comment below to be entered to win: Gather the Olives. Some gems: The difference between a good writer and a bad writer: the bad writer says, "Here I am, I have something to say." The good writer writes a good story and you're not aware he or she even exists. I write to try and understand things, why people do what they do and what happened to their lives. I shared a short story with a girl I liked. She wasn't impressed. I knew right then that I loved her. Jewel was based on my grandmother's life. She had 6 kids and the 6th, my aunt, was Down Syndrome. You're given what you're given in life; the writer's job and joy is to write the pages torn from that life and try to understand it better. The best art fills us with wonder and glory and mystery and beauty which are all manifestations of God.

Connie Lawson, wife and mother of three little girls has suffered more than most. When asked, "Do you ever wonder why you went through so many trials?" she replied, "Not anymore. When you really push into Jesus and decide that He's enough, you find out that He really is enough." Misdiagnosed at age 11 with a mental illness that didn't get changed around until her late 20's, Connie could be bitter over all those lost years. Instead, she's turned her pain into an opportunity to help others trust the God that she's come to know and love, even in and in spite of the darkness. Hear more of Connie's story on her podcast, Weeds, Seeds and Beautiful Things. Some gems: I don't understand the why behind my trials, but I do know that God is good, no matter what. If you aren't anchored to the truth, you'll drown, and the truth is that God is loves you and is present in your suffering. My mission is to help others come to know the God I've learned to trust. When you pray for more faith in God rather than praying for a changed outcome—it changes you. My suffering is a doorway to see the face of God. An entitled anger says, "I don't deserve this pain" and keeps me from seeing God's hand. For more encouragment, follow Connie at WeedsSeedsandBeautifulThings.com.

My friend and fellow podcaster, Mary Hess of The Back 40, invited me and 3 other gals (from the back 40!) to chat on her podcast. Here's what Mary had to say about all of us crazy and fun ladies: Ever found yourself in a predicament because your body is going through changes you don't quite understand? Or perhaps you're struggling to find your identity amidst the pressures of social media, comparison, and the expectation to constantly achieve? Well, ladies, you're not alone. I'm accompanied by four incredibly inspiring women - Sue Donaldson, Ruthie Gray, Susan Macias, and Carol Feil - who have each navigated their unique journeys and have come to share their wisdom on these common, yet often overlooked subjects. Our conversation doesn't shy away from the personal, the profound, or the downright hilarious. We candidly tackle the often-ignored topic of menopause and each share our own experiences with hormone replacement and our strategies for coping with life's inevitable transitions. I think you'll find comfort and camaraderie in our tales of overcoming fears, breaking free from societal timelines, and taking action, no matter what stage of life you're in. But that's not all. We dive deep into the challenges of finding your true identity in a world that demands comparison. We discuss the power of authentic communication, and the importance of being true to yourself. Wherever you are in your faith journey, whether you feel you're just starting out or you've been walking the path for decades, this episode is for you. So, get comfortable, grab a cuppa, and join us for a conversation that will have you nodding in agreement, laughing out loud, and maybe even shedding a tear or two. You won't want to miss it. Connect with Sue Donaldson: https://welcomeheart.com/ Connect with Susan Macias: https://www.susankmacias.com/ Connect with Ruthie Gray: https://authenticonlinemarketing.com/ Connect with Carol Feil: https://carolfeil.com/ Find our host, Mary here at The Back 40 Some gems (we do think we are funny...) I had to make a choice, to say this is my new season, and I'm going to assume that God didn't make me faulty. It's not bad. Hot flashes are never fun. I just want to be so in sync with what the Lord is doing in my life, so that, if I snap at someone, that I can do short accounts—to get our relationship back on track as soon as possible—like with God and my children and my husband. Because we can now walk around with, you know, computers in our back pockets, I think we have to really really guard our hearts and minds to what we allow to settle in and take up that space. I think sometimes it's easy for me even to get into the mindset of oh my gosh, I'm in my 50s now and what do I have to show for it? What do I have to show that I've been doing ministry or I'm successful in some arena or some way? I don't know that comparison ever really goes away and I kind of thought it would. To be surrounded by people who inspire you is is self-serving sanctification. To go into community on a regular basis and say have someone say, "You're not late, Susan, you're blessed. You're doing what God wants you to do today." When we start feeling lonely or down about what we're doing or anything to do with our second half of life, the worst thing we can do is stay to ourselves.

Scott Savage, pastor, husband of a judge and father of 3, realized one day in a church meeting that he was in the wilderness of burnout. What followed was 9 months of finding and knowing God on a deeper level and he's here today to share with us part of what he learned. You may not be in a wilderness yourself right now, but you may know someone who could use Scott's encouragement. He's offering a free resource which you can access here: Don't Give Up When It's Time To Change: 10 Things You Need to Hear When You're Ready to Quit. Scott and his wife, Danalyn often say, "Everyone has a story if we stop long enough to listen." Perhaps that's the main thing you need today: someone to listen to your story. You can connect with Scott here. Some gems from today: What if you started looking for God's kindness in your wilderness where He leads you tenderly closer to Himself. We can wake up and discover that we are somewhere where we never intended to be and find we are in a wilderness. Friendships forged in the hard places can be our deepest and most life-giving relationships. I knew I was burned out from focusing on my public life more than tending to my private life with God. Burnout is something we have more control over; wilderness can often be the result of outside circumstances. My prayer is that people will connect to me in my stories so that they will connect with God. When feeling burned out we can claim the promise we are not alone: God hasn't left and He can provide others to accompany us in the hardest of times. Scott Savage is a pastor, author, and speaker with the best last name ever! As a seasoned Millennial pastor, Scott has served churches for nearly 20 years. He currently leads Cornerstone Church in Prescott, Arizona. His writing has been read by over a million people in places like Our Daily Bread, RELEVANT Magazine, Air1 Radio, and the YouVersion Bible App: here's a sample. Through his writing and speaking, Scott loves helping people who are navigating difficult situations to find hope and healing. He is married to Danalyn, aka Judge Savage, and they’re raising three brilliant children. You can learn more about Scott at ScottSavageLive.com or follow him on social media (@scottsavagelive).

Kristen Hallinan knew she needed to make some changes. How she responded to situations was threatening the peace in her family and costing her precious relationships. Once she figured out that much of her over-reactions were based in deep-seated early life trauma, she was able to begin to move forward: for her sake and for the sake of the next generation. As a result of what Kristen learned, she's put together a resource that is her legacy and will be of help for many who feel stuck in the pain of their past. That may not be you but you may know someone who needs to hear her story and how to get beyond small-t trauma and live in the freedom and wholeness that Christ provides. A copy of her newly-released book will be part of a giveaway all week long. Be sure to comment to be entered: Legacy Changer: Heal the Hurt, Redeem Your Story, Create Hope for Your Family Some gems from our conversation: It took me many years to resource all the tools to help me heal. We are forgiven completely when we come to faith in Christ, but not always fully healed. I love seeing women walk in freedom when God redeems their past pain. As a child, I felt unwanted, unseen, and that I was simply annoying to others. It took courage to speak up about my needs and face the fact that many were not met as a child. To quiet the lies in my head, I list them out and contrast them with the truths of who God says I am. I am teaching our children that it's okay not to be enough because God is enough. I've learned that I am in charge of my emotions—they are not in charge of me. Kristen Hallinan is a sought-after writer and speaker, passionate about helping women redeem the pain of their past and move towards a healthier and more hopeful future. On mission to equip women and support families, Kristen previously worked as Director of Development for MOPS International. She enjoys working with teen moms, crisis pregnancy centers, and serving as a pre-marital mentor with her husband Shawn in Dallas, TX. Legacy Changer is Kristen’s debut book, and you can find her other writings in publications like Relevant Magazine and The Joyful Life. Laughing with and chasing after her four children helps burn off the calories she consumes of her favorite treat—homemade gluten free churros.

Pam Fields of The Mom Next Door Podcast shares with us today her desire to come alongside other moms and throw out the anchor of God's truth, hope and love, encouraging them in their parenting and their walk with the Lord. She came from a difficult place in her own childhood and didn't really understand what it was all about but she met the Lord at 15 and knew right then that God loved her and that she was His favorite. I wanted to argue that I was His favorite, but as we know, God loves us all. Pam, a recent resident of Tennesee after living in Oregon for many years, is a mom of 9 and grandma to 4. She hosts the free Facebook group called: Tending Fields Moms Group and interviews moms from all walks of life on her podcast. Some gems: I want to throw out the life preserver and provide an anchor for moms who are needing support and encouragement. An online community is a starting place for sharing hope and practical resources. I know that there is so much power in prayer and when we can't make a casserole for someone, we can still pray. I always knew that God loved me and that I was His favorite. Because of the dark places in my past, I know that I kept myself from fully experiencing my emotions until I met with a counselor and recognized my childhood trauma. To get beyond a painful past, we must surround ourselves with people who point us to God and His healing truth. We aren't meant to grow on our own. I want a home where my people feel comfortable and supported whether or not things are going well or not so great. As a mom of 9, Pam has learned how to incorporate prayer into the busy moments of mothering life. She would love to share this resource with you! In this guide, you will find prayer prompts as well as step-by-step instructions for crafting a prayer bracelet which will be a great reminder to pray for any concerns that you are carrying. She writes about the bracelet HERE. Prayer Bracelets: A Practical Idea to Remind You to Pray Here is the link: https://subscribepage.io/3e30w2 Follow Pam: IG: https://www.instagram.com/tendingfields/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/TendingFields Website: https://tendingfields.net/

Kendall Vanderslice joins us today to talk bread, food, community, and loneliness—all some of my favorite topics. Founder of the non-profit, EdibleTheology.com, Kendall shares her wisdom regarding cultural polarization, and how eating together is a vulnerable and soul-filling activity. I love her call to include "rhythms of times at the table" in an effort to stave off our default into isolation. And, that when we do, we feel more known, respected and healed. Author of We Will Feast, By Bread Alone, as well as the digital course, Bake With the Bible, Kendall also promotes a program we can use in our churches to build community and love, even in the middle of an election year! (Maybe especially in the middle of an election year!) And she is offering a copy of her recently released book/memoir: By Bread Alone: A Baker's Reflections on Hunger, Longing and the Goodness of God. Some gems from our conversation: To eat together takes vulnerability at some level which leads to deeper sharing and better knowing of one another. Loneliness has negative effects on our brains and our bodies. God speaks to us in the act of cooking and eating. Healing is possible around the table. Pull up a chair. Sharing stories and meals can fill gaps and foster connections unlike any other thing. Invite others into your home on purpose when it's not all cleaned up and perfect. We can love better when we don't agree on topics when we cook and eat together. To stave off loneliness, purpose to plan your life around rhythms of eating at the table with others. Her favorite thing to bake (I asked!) is "Sourdough on Training Wheels." Sounds like my kind of sourdough. In her own words Hello! I’m Kendall Vanderslice – yes, before you ask, that is my true name. It’s just by chance (or the humor of God) that I ended up in a field so fitting. I’m a baker and writer, whose best thinking occurs as I work dough between my hands; I scribble down thoughts on pieces of parchment dusted in flour, until I can parse them out later before my keyboard. When I embarked on a career as a pastry chef, I found that my love of bread transformed the ways I read scripture. Fascinated by God’s use of food throughout the arc of the Gospel, I merged my work in the kitchen with academic study of food and theology. I founded the educational nonprofit Edible Theology as an outlet for further research and public engagement in this sphere. You can get a taste for our work by listening to our weekly podcast Kitchen Meditations. I’m a graduate of Wheaton College in Illinois (BA Anthropology), where I began engaging questions of food and faith. Interested in commensality—or, the social dynamics of eating together—I studied food at Boston University (MLA Gastronomy). My thesis on church meals sparked a range of theological questions, leading me to Duke University where I wrote a thesis on the theology of bread (MTS). In 2018 I was named a James Beard Foundation national scholar for my work on food and religion. My first book, We Will Feast: Rethinking Dinner, Worship, and the Community of God, released May 2019. My second book, By Bread Alone: A Baker’s Reflections on Hunger, Longing, and the Goodness of God, releases February 2023.

A teacher told Dianne Beck, "You're a good writer" and that made all the difference. Beck's love of writing turned into a passion, first while teaching non-reading junvenile delinquents, then teaching in a Christian school and now writing young adult fiction. She inspired her students to write and they made her accountable to finishing her first novel, Sticks and Stones—a prequel to her current book, Finding True North. Beck explores the theme of living from our true identity, who God designed us to be. And she is giving away a copy this week! Leave a comment below to be entered. You'll want to read it first and then give it to your favorite 8th grader! Dianne's legacy is love: "When you read my stories, real or imagined, may you discover a God who loves you." Dianne, a mother of four adult children has taught school for years and has a special spot in her heart for Middle-schoolers, which makes her a saint and well-appreciated by parents that's for sure. Check out her writings on her website: diannebeck.com Some gems: A 5th grade teacher told me that I was a good writer. I never forgot her words. The juvenile delinquents I taught to read just needed someone to come alongside and show them that someone cared. Young people are embattled by social media, adding to their tension and confusion. We all need to live out of the confidence of being who God designed us to be. The written word stays long after we are gone: I want to write so that others know God loves them. Staying in the Word is the key to remembering our true identity.

Amberly Neese is all for Glee-ology as well as Theology. She loves making people laugh. I would say she can't help it. She knows, too, that truth goes down easier when prefaced with a good dose of humor and vulnerability. Author of three great Bible Studies including UNTANGLING FAITH: RECLAIMING HOPE INTHE QUESTIONS JESUS ASKED, Amberly helps people like you and me experience the freedom found in meaningful relationships with God and others. She's hosting a giveaway of UNTANGLING FAITH all week long - please leave comment below to be entered. Some gems from our conversation: My favorite question that Jesus asked is: "Who do you say I am?" Humor drops defenses and helps whet our appetites for what God wants to teach us. I had to let go of the false notion that God only is concerned with me when I'm doing things right. I want people to know that God is for them by the way that I love and honor them. We develop a specific muscle group in our minds each time we recall how God loves and provides: He does so for birds—he will do the same for us, His children. When my adult children need help, instead of rushing to their aid, I ask, "What do you know to be true?" Jesus asked over 300 questions as recorded in Scripture. Since He knew all the answers the questions were for you and I to help us grow in faith and love. Amberly is a featured speaker/ emcee/ comedian for the Aspire Women’s Events and Marriage Date Night, two popular Christian national tours. She and her husband have two adult children and live in Prescott, Arizona, where they enjoy the great outdoors, the Food Network, and all things Star Wars. I got to meet and hear Amberly in October. What a treat!

Colleen Swindoll Thompson speaks today about "reframing her pain" and what she didn't learn in Sunday School. "We don't like to hear that life includes suffering," Thompson states, "and that modeling how to suffer well is the best legacy we can leave our children." She was raised well and she figured if she did "her part for God and with God" she'd be okay. But she wasn't. Through multiple difficult and tragic circumstances, she learned to lean in toward God and allow Him to do his refining work, and all of it helped her establish "Reframing Ministries"—an organization to bless, encourage and support the caregiver. Colleen will be giving away a copy of her book When Life Isn't Fair: What They Didn't Tell You in Sunday School this week. Leave a comment below or on social media to be entered to win. Some gems from our conversation: God's way is so different from what we plan—so much bigger and better but we don't see that right away. I was raised with the idea that if I do my part, God would give me an abundant life without suffering. I want to leave a legacy of listening well because that means I'm loving well. How I treat others that God has entrusted into my care takes vulnerability and the willingness to ask for help. We can face our challenges and trials either by fighting with God, asking "Why, God?" and trying to fix things on our own or by asking Him, "What do I do now? You've given me this day and these trials—I need help." God knows you: your health, your emotions, your relationships—all the things—and He will supply the person or persons that you need when you need it. When we find ourselves stuck, not knowing how to move forward, the first step is to acknowledge our need; then pray, "Lord, I don't know what to do." God doesn't say, "I need to you do" as much as "I need you to be"—close to me, crying out for help and resting in His presence. Sign up for Colleen's 5-Day Patio Videos Devotional Series HERE. View Colleen's story here or here. Do you know a caregiver who would be encouraged by this podcast? Please share the link today. _______ Maybe someone in your neighborhood needs to hear Colleen's message of reframing. If I don't know my neighbor, it's hard to love them as Jesus loves them. You can start by hosting a coffee. This printable can get you on your way, including two simple recipes (I only do simple)—

When Twyla's daughters say, "Are we walking the neighborhood or talking the neighborhood?" she knows she's been passing down a legacy worth living. She says drawing close to God is the first step in loving our neighbors and some of her favorite words begin with "R." Twyla Franz is a big believer in baby steps and ripple-effect living. An Enneagram 9 learning to live open, she loves front-yard conversations with neighbors, chalk-painted furniture, and Yogi’s blueberry tea. As a missional neighboring guide, she helps others get close to Jesus and grow deep, missional friendships with neighbors. Find her words (written and recorded) on TheUncommonNormal.com. Other places Twyla writes include (in)courage, Relevant, Her View From Home, and The Grit and Grace Project. She also hosts Begin Within: A Gratitude Series to encourage year-round gratitude (because gratitude, she says, has a ripple effect.) Some gems: So often we complicate our faith instead of just living the rhythms of drawing close to Jesus and allowing him to ripple out onto our neighbors. To live missional is to live "interruptible." When we make ourselves vulnerable, we become approachable so that the Good News naturally or supernaturally pours out. My preference is not to ask for help but I find that makes me real and makes Jesus real to my neighbor. I know God differently on my knees than anywhere else. When I know where the goal is, I keep inching my way forward; I don't have to get there overnight. God's abundance isn't only for us, it's for how it flows over and out of our lives for those we meet everyday. Whatever we hope to do in our neighborhood, we need to start in our homes. A piece of our purpose is to thank God every day in our hearts and in the presence of others. Free sample week of Cultivating a Missional Life: A 30-Day Devotional to Gently Help You Open Your Heart, Home, and Life to Your Neighbors And, Find out if you are accidentally keeping your friendships shallow—and what you can do about it Find Twyla in all these places: Website—https://theuncommonnormal.com/ Cultivating a Missional Life Devotional https://theuncommonnormal.com/book/ Freebies (including sample week of devotional)—https://theuncommonnormal.com/subscribe/ Begin Within: A Gratitude Series—https://theuncommonnormal.com/category/gratitude-series/ Podcast—https://theuncommonnormal.com/podcast/ Instagram—https://www.instagram.com/theuncommonnormal/ Facebook—https://www.facebook.com/theuncommonnormal

Jordan Raynor returns to Living a Legacy Life Podcast today to talk about his radical and biblical view of our work, all of our work, and how it matters to God and to eternity. Jordany is the leading voice on work and faith and you may have been first introduced to his writing with his great books, Created to Create and Redeeming Your Time (Hear our conversation about that HERE.) Today he addresses our misconceptions of our work, our view of heaven as well as the Great Commission as most of us know it. Join us as we tackle these great topics from his latest book: The Sacredness of Secular Work: 4 Ways Your Job Matters for Eternity (Even When You're Not Sharing the Gospel) You will be motivated and blessed. OH! And he's giving one away so be sure to leave a comment below to be entered. So many convo gems: We know our jobs matter to God: His one and only Son, Jesus was raised in the home of a small business owner! We live with too many half-truths about heaven. The first commission is to make the world more useful for people's benefit and enjoyment. God delights in every detail of our lives, most of which includes our work. Our work is a vehicle for bringing God eternal pleasure. The Great Commission is great but it's not the only thing that God values. The Gospel includes the redemption of the earth, not only the salvation of our souls. Make a list of questions that will launch conversations from the surface, to the serious, to the spiritual and keep them in your phone. Follow Jordan at jordanraynor.com Podcasts and books.

Alyssa Evans never met her dad and was raised in a foster home, then adopted. It wasn't until she had her first child that she decided to embrace faith in Christ. And found her "forever family." As a military wife (Marines!) she's moved countless times and struggled often with loneliness that is typical with military families. she compared herself (a little bit!) with Jesus since his fulltime ministry was 3 years and a typical military duty is 3 years where families need to uproot again, find new friends for themselves and their kids. Alyssa and her husband want to continue ministering to the military family unit in some way after his retirement which is not that far away. Some gems from our conversation: Women become incredibly isolated when they uproot every three years or so and they need someone to come alongside and just be with them. We want to love people with the same love that Jesus loves us. Our church knew we wouldn't be sticking around because of the military so their attitude was: "Hey! We don't care how long you're staying and if it's a short time, it just means we will love you harder!" The least I can do is invite someone to my table. If there are snacks for the kids, sometimes that's all that's needed to gather women around my table (and by snacks I mean a big bowl of popcorn and another one of cereal.) I find that as we get older, we're so busy with our older kids, we don't take time to develop our women friendships. We need to put it on the calendar. When I'm feeling blue and lonely, I've learned that if I'm invited somewhere that I say, "Yes!" no matter what. The Lord has more for me and he humbles and sustains us. When wallowing in loneliness, I've learned to stop saying, "Why, Lord?" and changing it to, "Lord, what will You have me learn from this situation?" When I'm authentic with my story, it deepens a new friendship and lets another know there is room at my table.

Free lance writer, editor, mother of two, Jenny Abel talks today on the preciousness of recalibrating your life, all for heaven's sake. Co-author with Kenneth Boa of the book, Recalibrate Your Life: Navigating Transitions with Purpose and Hope, Abel defines recalibration as consciously processing where we've been, where we are now, and looking ahead to where God may want to lead us. "This isn't something we only do at the end of our lives," Jenny says, "rather we do it on a regular basis to help us gain perspective: Are we numbering our days to gain a heart of wisdom?" Leave a comment below or on social media to be entered to win a copy of Recalibrate Your Life. Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12 Some gems: At the heart of recalibration is a pilgrim mindset. Before we can recalibrate, we need to calibrate: do we belong to God? Are our minds set on Christ? My relationship with God would not be what it is without my time in the dark valley of infertility. Knowing you are really going to die someday changes everything. Our career changes; the calling on our lives is never ending. Suffering prompts recalibration. My desire is to inspire others to know and hope in God and call them to gaze on God's beauty. Our pride, our day-to-day inertia, digging in our heels—all of these things keep us from numbering our days. Jenny Abel is an editor and writer for Ken Boa, coauthor of Recalibrate Your Life. Having sat under Boa’s teaching since she was a teenager, she began working for him and his Reflections Ministries in 2013. She served as editor of the monthly Reflections teaching letter from 2017 to 2023. She cowrote Shaped by Suffering and A Guide to Practicing God’s Presence with Dr. Boa and edited his book Life in the Presence of God. A freelance writer and editor, she founded Jenny M. Abel Editorial Services (www.abeleditorial.com) in 2011. She holds a BS in mathematics with a concentration in Latin American studies from Furman University, is a graduate of the Focus on the Family Leadership Institute, and resides in Charlottesville, Virginia, with her husband, Ben, and their two young children. Book web page: http://recalibrateyourlife.org Ken Boa’s website: http://kenboa.org Ken’s social media: Reflections Ministries - YouTube, Facebook, Kenneth Boa (@ken.boa) • Instagram photos and videos AND, Jenny shared a recipe! Yay! I'm not sure I'd decrease the butter, but that's just me. Thanks, Jenny! Grand Canyon Coffee Cake Part 1: ¾ c. canola or vegetable oil 2½ c. flour* ¾ c. sugar 1 c. brown sugar (light or dark) 1 tsp. nutmeg 1 tsp. salt Part 2: 2 tsp. cinnamon 2 eggs, beaten 1 c. buttermilk 1 tsp. baking powder 1 tsp. baking soda 1 stick butter Directions: Preheat oven to 350° F. Combine Part 1 ingredients and mix thoroughly (in an electric mixer). Take ¾ c. of this mixture and set it aside. Part 2: To the set-aside mixture, add 2 tsp. cinnamon. This will serve as the topping. To the rest of the Part 1 mixture, add eggs, buttermilk, powder, and soda. Pour into the bottom of a greased 9” x 13” pan. Sprinkle the topping crumbles on top, distributing evenly. Bake 25–30 min. or until toothpick comes out clean. Melt the 1 stick butter and drizzle on top of the hot cake. Serve warm for breakfast or anytime! *Note: I often use whole wheat flour for all or part of this case to make it healthier. I also decrease the amount of butter drizzled on top to about ½ to 2/3 of a stick.

When God said, “Be hospitable” he added a caveat which could only be divine: “And while you’re at it, don’t be grumpy.” It’s easy to be grumpy because hospitality is work especially if you don’t think you are very good at it. Some people are really great hosts. We describe them as “good at entertaining.” But God didn’t say, “Be good entertainers.” There’s a difference. Seems to me that entertaining has more to do with me and hospitality has more to do with my guests My friend told me that the hardest part of hospitality is trying too hard to impress with appearance and presentation instead of being genuinely warm and welcoming. Emphasizing these things can leave her feeling superficial and flat rather than warm, loving and satisfied. She said, "I have to remind myself that entertaining is not the same thing as hospitality. I need to slow down and take time to nurture relationships." She's right. I need to remind myself of the same thing, especially when I end up running around at the last minute, barking orders at the family to help me finish whatever isn’t, and making a general mess of a kind and loving atmosphere - - all in the name of “making things nice for the company. Mom was raised in the ungrace of no hospitality. But she wanted to help people know that they were a big deal to God by inviting them over for strawberry jello and baked chickens in the blue roaster on time-bake on Sundays. So she kept inviting and that’s how she broke that chain and raised all us Moore kids with grace enough to do the same only I don’t usually make jello and often I buy the pie. We all know how to make coffee. Thank you, Mom. Karen Mains wrote: "True hospitality comes before pride. It has nothing to do with impressing people, but everything to do with making them feel welcome and wanted." Some thoughts from today's episode: God wants to use our hospitality as a vehicle for Him to change lives – our lives and those we invite. True hospitality is "relationship-based" rather than "show-off based." The more I accept that grace, the easier it is for me to give grace to everyone else. I think that’s called love. Hospitality can get confused with Entertaining. Both are great – both can be used by God – but they are not the same. God is interested in me, but when I invite someone over, he wants me to show my guests that he’s interested in them. If one is truly hospitable, one shows graciousness, courtesy, and genuine kindness--all qualities of our loving God. Someone can show these qualities without owning table settings for twelve with matching linen napkins. There is no one more hospitable than God, and we are to be His welcome to the world. Great food, good times, a gorgeous home—is that what hospitality is all about? God makes room even when no one else does, and sometimes in the most unlikely places. Sometimes we just need to make room so that someone becomes part of the Bigger Story.

Welcome Carol Feil of Yellow Boot Fame to Legacy Living today! We talk about what matters most during the busy holiday season and we laugh a lot, too! People are lonelier than ever and how can we include rather than exclude to help others connect to a family, even if for one evening? Sometimes choosing "simple" over "elaborate" is the best gift we can give our own families as well as ourselves so we can focus on what really matters and choose to make this time a sacred space. Some Carol gems: Simplifying allows us to focus on what's most important durlng the holidays. Love can mean learning to give someone what they are willing to receive. I've discovered that doing things that help our family connect is more valuable than buying more gifts and putting on elaborate events. Our "shoulds" are not always grounded in reality. My family was happier with less; I had to learn to expect less of myself. I taught my children that we aren't purposely exclusive when we are purposely inclusive, but we have to look out for that one who is feeling excluded by our inclusivity. We "should" ourselves into doing more when it only adds more stress and no one else is expecting it--only us. A gift from Carol, first a word: I love everything about Christmas - well, almost everything. Tinsel and holly, yes. Stress and overwhelm, no. Coco and caroling, yes. Overloaded calendar, no. You get the idea. It's easy to overcommit, overdo, then overwhelm ourselves as Christmas approaches. How often does the schedule dictate what you focus on? I have learned that by choosing what goes on the calendar in advance, I can simplify, stay sane so I can focus on the Sacred of the Season. I want this for you, too. I've created a FREE resource to remind you: You have permission to choose sane and simple so Sacred can be the focus. Carol wears yellow-boots in the garden - they are her “listen & learn” boots. She takes pictures of everything! Slugs & bugs & selfies! But, her grandkids are her favorite to frame. She will tell you growth in life is good and gardens are proof. She believes God grows us where we are and helps us to be rooted and grounded in His unchanging character. He knows our pain and loves us more than we can imagine. Let Carol encourage you today, so you too, can plant a seed of hope for another tomorrow. You can find Carol through her website www.carolfeil.com, on Instagram and Facebook.

Kristen Welch went to Kenya on Compassion trip with an agenda. God wrecked her instead, all for His glory and purpose. Kristen thought she had God and faith figured out but instead she realized she had not been really living the Christian life as God requires all of us to live who call ourselves followers of Jesus. As a result of that encounter with God and with the world's poverty, Kristen founded the non-profit, Mercy House Global. You can hear more of story in her book, Rhinestone Jesus, and today's conversation will encourage you and maybe even wreck you, all for heaven's sake. Kristen will be hosting a giveaway of her great book, Made to Move Mountains: How God uses Our Dreams and Disasters to Accomplish the Impossible. You may already know Kristen from her great mom-blog, WeAreTHATFamily.com. Some gems: You never know when you say that "yes" of obedience where God will change you and use you. My normal was impacted by the world's normal: 75% of the world live on $5.00 a day. Generosity is a spiritual discipline. When we see someone start something big we use it as an excuse to not do anything. Abiding in Christ is the main thing that keeps me from discouragement because the work is exhausting but it is His work. Everyone is commanded to remember the marginalized. Doing nothing is a response too. I found myself in the classroom of Surrender, 101, and I stopped expecting it to be easy. Kristen is passionate about empowerment, taking action, responding to God’s command to care for vulnerable people and making a difference with how we spend money. Find all you need to know on MercyHouseGlobal.org. And prayerfully consider buying your Chirstmas gifts from Mercy House Global. Those subscriptions boxes sound amazing!

Author, speaker, life coach, Caris Snider talks today about how she struggled with anxiety and depression and how that's not a bad thing, it's just a thing that can be progressed through with the help of community, the truths of God's Word and presence, and possibly a coach and/or therapist. Overwhelmed with all the things a mom faces, she began a little podcast that's become a big one called "Car Line Mom" - what we think about while we're in all the lines waiting with our kids or for our kids. Her latest book, by the same title is available today: Car Line Mom: 100 Days of Encouragement for the Mama Who Gets Everyone Everywhere. Some gems from today's podcast: When negative thoughts come in, don't let them stay! No matter how we struggle as moms, we are never alone. No one in the Bible did their journey alone; ask God for a friend to journey with you as a mom. I learned through my own feelings of inadequacy and living an over-committed life that it's okay to say "no" and create healthy margins A coach helps us Zoom Out on your life map to see how we can get where we want to go. Jesus was a our model even in negative feelings so we don't need to be afraid to have them. We don't need to be afraid to talk about faith and mental health. As mom's we feel like we can't fail which adds chaos and "overwhelm" to our lives. We need to live from the overflow of God's presence. He promises peace; we need to live in and from that peace. CARIS SNIDER loves to share the hope of God through speaking, writing, coaching, and leading worship. She is the author of “Anxiety Elephants: 31 Day Devotional” and “Anxiety Elephants: 90 Day Devotional for Tween Boys and Girls.” From her own personal experience, she helps women in their journey of overcoming depression, anxiety, fear, and shame. Caris lives with her husband, Brandon, and two daughters in Cullman, Alabama. A word from Caris: I am so glad that you have found your way here. You see, I know what it is like to be shackled in guilt and shame, feeling hopeLESS and purposeLESS. BUT, I also know the freedom of those shackles being broken and beginning to live a life FULLfilled. I have my good days and I have my bad days. I have had some pretty dark days as well. I don't know what type of day you are having, but just know that many of us have been where you are, and there is hope to make it out. Find free resources HERE. Follow her instagram to learn more: @carissnider And her website is carissnider.com

Jilliann Woods grew up in an abusive environement which didn't stop with her childhood. Because she didn't understand the oppression under which she was raised, she found herself in repeated abusive relationships. She finally realized that God created all of us to be heard and seen and empowered by His Spirit, she now lives free and boldly counsels and teaches multitudes of women so that they too can find our God-given freedom in Christ. Thank the Lord, for Jilliann's courage and love for others. Check out her two free resources on her website: jillian-woods.com. And pass them along to anyone you know who might need help in this painful and crippling life situation. Free guide: How to Climb Out of Oppression Free printable: Bold and Free Manifesto Some gems from our conversation: I thought it was my duty to be nice at the expense of being honest. All the things I wanted to keep secret, I now share to help others. One oppressive relationship when younger can lead to a series of abusive relationships as an adult. When you suspect someone may be in an abusive relationship, develop trust by just being there for them and then begin asking gentle questions. God gives us all kinds of permission to be bold. I learned I do have a voice given to me by God, empowered by Him to be used by His Spirit. How does a woman transition from being "beside the point" to becoming the very point of her own life? Jilliann Woods is a writer, abuse survivor, and founder of Be Bold. Live Free—providing encouragement, coaching, and resources for women affected by abuse in close relationships. Currently, she is writing a book for Christian women who seek a path to freedom from abuse and relationship addiction. She is a certified Domestic Violence Peer Counselor. Jilliann is Mom to three amazing adults, and Grammie to seven cherished grands. She happily resides on the Central Coast of California. 3 Steps to Take if You are in an Abusive Relationship: [Safety first for yourself and your children. If physical violence is an issue, find safe shelter. If you don't have a place to go call: 800.799.7233] 1. Confide in a trusted friend. Even if you feel ashamed or embarrassed, a trusted friend will understand and realize the abusive behavior of your spouse is not your fault. 2. Find a mentor or counselor who is trauma informed. Someone who will know what you are going through. Ask your friend to help with this step. If you are a Christian, find a trauma informed faith-based coach or counselor. 3. Be honest with yourself, don't excuse the abuse, and don't accept the blame for his behavior. Pray and ask God for guidance and courage. NOTE: In abusive marriages, Marriage Counseling is not advisable. You need individual counseling. The abuser must be willing to get help and do the work to change his behaviors first. Click here for FREE 5-Step Toxic Relationship Reset Guide (scroll to bottom of Jilliann's home page) Find and follow Jilliann in all the places-- https://jilliann-woods.com/ https://www.instagram.com/jilliannw https://www.facebook.com/writerjilliannwoods https://www.pinterest.com/jilliannwoodscoach/

Things are out of our control. Circumstances do cause us grief and pain, tragedy does strike the good people as well as the bad. What can we do with our sorrow? We hope as Paul wrote in I Thess. 4:13 – “Do not grieve like the men who have no hope.” We can think that as a good Christian, we should not be grieving—as if being sad is un-Christ-like. Life IS hard, we’d be foolish not to embrace that fact, and the best way to get through grief is to grieve. But we grieve differently because we belong to God. How does a follower of Jesus grieve differently? With hope in God who knows what’s ahead and loves us to the uttermost. We are to come to Him with our grief, we are to hold on tight, as we grieve, and we are to look for God’s beauty and purpose amidst the ashes of pain. I want to add something here that maybe you can relate to: I hate to see my kids suffer – I like to run around and manipulate all their circumstances and their friends and their teachers – just so that my kids don’t suffer pain – but God has something better in mind. He wants them to know Him through their pain. And that is far more beautiful and helpful than anything I can maneuver. They need to learn to know God personally; They need to learn for themselves that God’s joy underlies their grief and the best way for them to learn it, is for their mother to get out of the way of the Holy Spirit. (Of course, the Holy Spirit still needs my help with my husband . . . just kidding.) Joy comes from trusting and hoping in God Joy comes from communing and depending on God Joy comes from obedience and the main thing to obey is: "Love others as I have loved you." John 15 Sign up here to receive my 31 Days of Prayers: Love God, Love My Neighbor - It's Not Complicated (I make it complicated) One short prayer in your inbox for 31 days (free.) Also in journal form - see SHOP. A gift for your soul just in time for the holidays. Quantities are limited.

Mimika Cooney, author, speaker and "personal trainer for the mind" is with us today to talk about mindset and legacy and living for things that matter. Wife and mother of three, Mimika had a lot going on until she realized she needed to get off the treadmill of doing too much with too little of relying on God. She needed a mindset change: "Lord, show me what you want me to do and then help me do it." And he did and does. "Our mind drives our actions so I need to keep God in the driver seat by renewing my mind daily—Romans 12:2."--Mimika (pronouced like paprika!) Author of 10 books including her latest: Unstick Your Mind: Shift Your Mindset, Develop Grit, and Break Barriers, Mimika shares wisdom and inspiration based on her favorite Scripture, Romans 12:2 - "...be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect." Find her free resource: 8 Steps to Supercharge Your Mind HERE. Some gems from our conversation: Training includes action—God expects us to act so we can be and do what he's created us to be and do. We all have "junk in the trunk" that slows us down and needs clearing out. We may be living in denial-city if we think we can do God's will without God renewing our minds daily. Our mind drives our actions so I need to keep God in the driver seat by renewing my mind daily—Romans 12:2. We don't know what we don't know so we rely on God to show us what needs changing and then take action steps to make those changes. There are limits to self-help because it's self, not God. You have to want to make a change. I help people move from where they are to where they want to be. Ask yourself: "What are you thinking and why do you believe that?" You're never too old to teach an old dog new tricks. Your story is a testimony to God's grace so if you keep it to yourself, you are doing the world a disservice and robbing God of the glory due him. Find Mimika here: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mimikacooney YouTube https://youtube.com/c/mimikacooney Facebook https://www.facebook.com/themimikacooney Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mimikacooney Twitter https://twitter.com/mimikacooney Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Mimika- Cooney/e/B0052GNJGY Don't forget to check out her latest book, Unstick Your Mind as well as her free resource: 8 Steps to Supercharge Your Mind HERE.

When we wake up each morning, do we actually think that what we do can change someone's world in some way? Most of us are grateful to change the sheets on a regular basis, clean the coffee pot with vinegar a few times a year, and water the plants when they show signs of an early death. Yet, as followers of Jesus, we are not only called to an eternal purpose, to love God and our neighbor, we also get the privilege of partnering with the Son of God to change lives—one life, perhaps—all for His glory and our good and theirs. Does that sound too hard? Too overwhelming? Too exhausting? It can to me, until I remember how Jesus spoke to many individuals, not only crowds of 5,000 and more. And He met needs one-on-one, as well as breaking bread and fish for hungry men and women and their kids on a mountain more than once. Think about it: I've learned that inviting one person for a cup of coffee can change their world. God loves people, and He wants to use our tables and teapots to show people that He does. Your cup of coffee or tea, soup or water—can be an introduction to God that someone has been looking for their whole lives. As my new sweatshirt reads, "My real home is heaven. I'm just here recruiting." (I don't usually wear that on a first time meet-up.) Awhile ago I shared three stories of how God changed lives through a simple invitation. Here are three more stories of how God changed lives through a simple invitation. An invitation to the one who needs a family An invitation to the one who needs to live awake An invitation to the one who needs a little help Maybe you've been the recipient of an invitation that changed your life. I'd love to hear about it. I'd also like to hear if you invite someone over and would like me to pray alongside. Email me: [email protected]. We're partners, after all. To hear my first three invitations that changed the world, LISTEN to Part, I - HERE.

Today's conversation with Keri Eichberger is something we all need to hear: how to live with less worry and more peace. Author of the brand new book: Win Over Worry: Conquer What Shakes You and Soar with the One Who Overcomes, Keri, mother of five (now there are five worries!) speaks of her own process in overcoming worry with the truth of God's Word. Yes, there's a giveaway! Leave a comment below or on social media to be entered to win her book! Some gems from Keri: We must be aware of the temptation to rely on ourselves and our own abilities, for true peace and freedom can only be found when we fully trust and surrender to God. Worry is rooted in fear: fear of helplessness and fear of worthlessness. The more people I love, the more reason I'll have to worry—until and unless I give them all to God's care. Simple steps to worry less takes a commitment and a decision to follow those steps. I worry less when I remember that God sees so much that we don't see. Identify your root of worry and cover it with God's truth: He is all loving and all powerful. Overview: On this episode of WELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy Life, our host Sue Donaldson is joined by guest Keri Eichberger as they dive deep into the topic of worry and its impact on our lives. The conversation begins with a focus on faith and the desire to make a difference in the lives of loved ones through their love for Jesus. The importance of living boldly and vulnerably in our faith is emphasized, as it brings glory to God and raises "kingdom builders" who can make a positive impact in the world. The discussion then shifts to the root causes of worry and how unresolved worry can turn into fear. The speaker shares personal experiences, like worrying about their child driving, and explains how these fears can stem from deeper rooted fears of helplessness and worthlessness. They highlight the importance of identifying and addressing these root causes in order to overcome worry, reminding listeners that these fears are lies and that we are never helpless or worthless, drawing strength from the truths of God. In addition to exploring personal experiences with worry, the episode also discusses how faith impacts daily life and how it is important to show reliance on God rather than trying to handle everything on our own. The speaker shares personal struggles and how they rely on God's grace to navigate their responsibilities. They also touch on the prevalence of worry among people of all ages and provide practical strategies for dealing with worry, such as writing down reminders of God's love and control. The episode continues with an examination of the origins of worry and the tendency for people, including the speaker herself, to learn unhealthy coping strategies and avoid addressing the true source of their suffering. The importance of unlearning and relearning trust in God rather than relying on oneself or the world is discussed. The conversation then moves to the challenges of parenting and the need for vulnerability in building intimacy and allowing others to witness the grace of God. The speaker encourages authenticity and transparency, acknowledging that it is God being tested, not the individual. They also tackle the issue of self-reliance and the tendency to worship one's own abilities. The speaker references Psalm 73 and ponders whether worry is more prevalent now compared to 100 years ago. The episode concludes with reflections on leaving a legacy and the importance of embracing and relating to others. The speaker addresses encounters with non-believers and the need to overcome fear and self-righteousness in order to meet others where they are. Their personal journey of growth, including overcoming worry and finding more peace through a closer relationship with God, is shared. The speaker also discusses their decision to write a book on anxiety to help others and their research process. They suggest resources for fostering faith in young children, such as reading biographies of Christians, and highlight the importance of honoring trust in difficult circumstances rather than offering empty platitudes. Throughout the episode, Sue Donaldson and Keri Eichberger provide insights and personal anecdotes that listeners can relate to. They explore the complexities of worry, the role of faith in navigating life's challenges, and the importance of leaving a legacy rooted in love and empathy. Listeners are left with a deeper understanding of worry and practical strategies to address it, as well as inspiration to live a legacy life with less worry and more peace. Keri Eichberger www.KeriEichberger.com [email protected] Hang with me on Instagram!

You will love this conversation with Roger and Kathi Lipp about their brand new book, The Accidental Homesteader AND they are giving one away! Be sure to comment on social media, on blog or email me so you can be entered to win because you will want a copy for yourself as well as gifts for friends and family: The Accidental Homesteader: What I’ve Learned About Chickens, Compost, and Creating Home Roger and Kathi Lipp had an idea - a big idea - to move from the Silicon Valley to the north woods of California in mid-life and then they "accidentally" became homesteaders and they (mostly!) love it! Hear how they processed their move, and about some of the very real challenges they faced, and how their strong marriage made this a successful venture. Their enthusiasm for learning new things is an inspiration for all of us to learn new things at any age. Their legacy and desire is to continue to care for others as they grow in their love for each other and their neighbors as well as a deepening faith in their God. So many tips as well as over 20 recipes and inspiration for all of us to grow and change no matter what our age. Highly practical, humorous, and inspirational, The Accidental Homesteader will encourage you to live with more peace, joy, and contentment. Some gems from our conversation: When you're following God, it's never boring. Our brains have expanded, and so has our faith. God is our first thought instead of our last resort when a crisis comes up. Living as a homesteader makes me more grateful and we are living the life we want. If you're homesteading, you're not taking the easy route—it's rewarding but not convenient. When creating your home, loved and lovely is the goal—not perfection. If you need or want to learn something, there are a million people who want to teach you. Learning on the job is rewarding in a way we never experienced before and it brings joy. About Kathi: Kathi Lipp is the Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author of 20 books, including An Abundant Place: Daily Retreats for the Woman Who Can’t Get Away, Overwhelmed, and Clutter Free. Along with being a part of the InCourage at Dayspring writing team, she is the host of Clutter Free Academy the Podcast! with Kathi Lipp, Facebook group Clutter Free Academy, and Clutter Free for Life. Kathi lives on her Red House mini-homestead with her husband Roger, a dog, and eight chickens and holds cozy writer retreats for content creators. Find and follow her at kathilipp.com, @kathilipp and clutter-free academy and @writingattheredhouse

Whitney Akin felt overlooked,and that her life didn't matter and she didn't have any purpose in the grand scheme of things. Insecure and shy, she hid in the back of any group gathering so that she wouldn't make a mistake and bring even more perceived criticism onto her heart and life. Finally God reminded her who she was and more importantly who He was: beloved by God, created for his purpose and mission. Her mission now is to let everyone know that they count, that our worth isn't based on our big splash in society or our numbers on social media. Listen today to hear what it means to live seen by God and how you can make that a lifestyle vs only a moment. Her book, OVERLOOKED: Finding Your Worth When You Feel All Alone is a gem and you may need to get one for yourself and one for a friend who is feeling the same way. Good news: A Giveaway for your first copy! Leave a comment below to be entered to win. Some gems from today's conversation: God gives us all the approval that we need, we just need to remember that. God's name, El Roi, means he is the God who sees so he can't help but see us—we are never overlooked. We like to measure our worth based on how many more eyes are on us, but its the Father's eyes that matter. There's a difference between knowing that God loves me and experiencing it for myself in my grief and doubt. Feeling like was unseen translated into severe, self-consuming insecurity so that wanted to hide in any social situation. If I hid inside myself there was less of a chance of being hurt. I want my children to live seen, but also take it a step further to help others feel seen by God. Being seen is a moment, living seen is a lifestyle. Whitney Akin is a wife and mother of three young ones, author and speaker. You can find her here.

Hyatt Moore and his wife Anne came to Jesus late, in their later 20's and they've never stopped serving God all these many years. Hyatt, in his third career—when you're just about to ready to celebrate your 80th birthday, you have time for at least 3 careers—describes himself as a Christian who is an artist. Father of 5 and grandfather of 17, Hyatt wants his legacy to be something that goes on through his kids long after he dies, and he's very intentional about modeling his faith and pouring into his kids and grandkids. First career: Art Director of Surfer Magazine, Dana Pt, CA; second career: Missionary with Wycliffe Bible Translators for 32 years (Director for 5 of those years); Full-time painter (currently painting for many organizations, including donating many each year, and on commission.) See his commission gallery here. We talk about art and creativity and the talents that God gives all his children. Hyatt says he's a two-talent guy, and God has definitely doubled those. I'm thinking he has five to ten, but then I'm his sister and his biggest fan. Some gems: Creativity is basically problem-solving. God and his mercies are new every morning; I get ideas, solutions, creativity every morning. After running from God and then found by Him, I wanted to live my life to serve others the way I had been helped. Be humble, but step up to your gifting and you'll get more yet. I want to live a "bless-able" life—I can prevent God's blessings by how I live. God said, "Be holy for I am holy" which implies it's possible for us but only with his help, Spirit and fullness. Hyatt's portrait painted by a friend and student, Pil See his art at hyattmoore.com View his blog here and join his mailing list here. Hear his testimony on YouTube here. Hyatt's signature piece is The Last Supper with Twelve Tribes - hear that story HERE. One of the paintings Hyatt created for fellow-artist, Joni Eackenson Tada: He's known for his large canvases as in Heroes of the Faith:

With her latest book, Stuff I'd Only Tell God, A Guided Journal of Courageous Honesty, Obsessive Truth-Telling and Beautifully Ruthless Self-Discovery, Jennifer Dukes Lee gives us what we may didn't know we needed: a self-guided tour of ourselves--and it's only as accurate as we are honest. On this episode of WELCOME HEART: Living a Legacy Life, host Sue Donaldson talks to guest Jennifer Dukes Lee about her legacy journey. Jennifer shares her story about creating legacy Bibles for her daughters and the importance of leaving a lasting impact on loved ones. In addition, the episode delves into the power of journaling and how it can help build a deeper relationship with God, the value of asking and answering questions to form meaningful connections with others, exploring both the good and the bad memories in our life, and cultivating self-compassion through journaling. Join us as we explore these meaningful topics that can help us all live a more purposeful and intentional life. What you'll learn from tuning in today: 1. The importance of journaling as a way to become more intimate and honest with God, and to see where He has been in your life, ultimately leading to a deeper relationship. 2. Ways to embrace your unique self and be reminded of God's humor. 3. The concept of exploring both the "holes" and "gardens" in your life and how this can balance things out and allow you to see the beauty in both. 4. How to think about your relationship with money and how it influences your life. 5. The value of cultivating self-compassion by reflecting on past experiences and gaining admiration for your younger self. Some Jen Gems: 1. "We have a generation of people who have grown up without a legacy of faith, so it's up to us to create that legacy now." 2. "Legacy is about making a lasting impact. It's the things that will outlast us when we're gone." 3. "When you lean into discomfort, you find a deeper level of meaning, purpose, and significance in your life." 4. "When we're honest and vulnerable about what we're experiencing, other people find a way to connect and realize they're not alone." 5. "Legacy is not about perfection, it's about authenticity. It's about being true to who God created us to be." Learn how to create a Bible journal for someone you love: HERE

Welcome Robin Rhine McDonald of MadeWell.com today as we discuss what may be your favorite topic (or not!)—our physical health. Robin is a faith-based holistic health coach who loves Jesus and has a passion for helping people live their best life physically, all for heaven's sake. I ask Robin some tough questions today—maybe I was feeling a little defensive as I do love my sugar—but she answered everything beautifully. You will learn and be encouraged, no matter where you are on the health spectrum. Robin learned her good habits because she needed to, and she learned how food and fitness work together to help us live the way God designed. We talk weight loss, bad and good habits, and why God cares about us stewarding our bodies well. Some gems from Robin: 1. "I think the turning point for me was watching my grandparents' health deteriorate. They dealt with all the common chronic diseases, and I began to see that if we don't make intentional choices, we are going to end up the same way." 2. "It's about going back to the garden and the way that God intended for us to live, before there were processed foods and convenience was the norm." 3. "We don't have to be perfect, but we do need to be intentional and aware of the choices we're making. It's never too late to start making healthier choices." 4. "Grace is not just about covering our mistakes, it's fuel for transformation. It's about acknowledging that we're not perfect, but that God is at work in us. "5. "Our culture promotes convenience and a sedentary lifestyle, but it's important to remember that small changes can make a big impact on our health." How to connect with Robin and access her great resources: Podcast: visiondrivenhealth.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robin_rhinemcd/ Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/RobinRhineMcD 5 Day Sugar Fast Devotional: https://www.madewellhealth.com/sugarfast Greens & Grace Experience: https://visiondrivenhealth.com/greensexperience How to prioritize your health masterclass: madewellhealth.com/prioritize Robin McDonald is a health advocate who believes that small changes in lifestyle can have a big impact on health. She knows that many chronic diseases are preventable through healthy choices and that our cultural norms make it difficult for people to know where to begin. Robin encourages people to take hold of God's grace and start making positive changes in their lives. She emphasizes that there is no shame in past choices and that hope for healing is available to everyone. TRANSCRIPTION OF OUR CONVERSATION - ENJOY! Good morning. Today we are talking to my first health coach. I don't know. I'm not sure I can do this today, Robin, because I went to Taco Bell for lunch. But this is Robin Ryan McDonald, and she describes herself as a faith based, holistic health coach, and we're going to dig into that a little bit. Robin, I know you'll be excited to talk about what that actually means. We'll break it down. Robin, first, tell us a little bit about where you live, your family, and then what does that exactly mean? Robin McDonald [00:01:13]: Yes. So I live in Oceanside, California. I'm a mama of two boys. I've got a three and a half year old and a ten month old. Sue Donaldson [00:01:21]: Whoa. Robin McDonald [00:01:22]: I know. And I'm married to the man of my dreams. So a holistic, faith based health coach. So at the end of the day, it really means that we are coming into alignment with what God has called us to already. We've been given this life. We have a vision, we have a purpose, we have a calling like you talk about all the time. We have this legacy. And so my big thing is, what does it look like to steward our bodies and to partner with God in creating the vitality that we need to carry that out? Sue Donaldson [00:01:56]: Say it again. What does it look like to steward our bodies? For those who don't know, the Christiane steward. What do you mean by that? Robin McDonald [00:02:03]: Thank you for asking. So stewarding means that you are taking care of you're tending to something. So if someone lends something to you that actually belongs to them, you want to make sure you take really good care of it. Right. And so our bodies, at the end of the day, belong to God, and so we want to make sure we take really good care of them again in order to do what he's called us to do. Sue Donaldson [00:02:28]: Yeah, it's always for a higher purpose. It's not so that we look good, though. I like to look good in order to fill out or fulfill our purpose that God has given us. I'm wondering for the person who has an ongoing disease that makes them maybe they can't even get out of bed. What's that called where you just don't have any strength? Robin McDonald [00:02:55]: There's a couple of different diseases. Sue Donaldson [00:02:58]: If they're listening to this today, they go, wait, is this my design to stay in bed all day? What would you say to someone like that? Robin McDonald [00:03:04]: It's a good quest

The most important question about our road trip with God is this: How in the world can I stay on this trip? The answer is this: “You can’t. Not by yourself. You need God completely.” And the only way to remember that is to spend time with Him—whether it’s in the car, in the shower, in your favorite chair, or on a walk. don’t expect to do the Christian life by yourself. It’s sure to fail, period. You’re heard the expression "We need someone with skin on." Our children, our families, our friends need God, but they need God with “skin on” and each of us needs to be Jesus to someone else; we need to be God’s HUG to one another. However, before we can do that properly, we must first be experiencing God’s HUG for ourselves. In other words, before we can water others, we must make sure our bucket is full. I need constant refilling. We could do a whole study on what causes holes in our buckets. Someone said, “Ministry is spillage.” Helping others is a by-product of seeking God and finding our rest in Him. In other words, we don’t seek to help others first - but that happens when we seek God. Remember to take those Rest Stops: Women are tired, period. We do too much, often, for too many people, with too little money, cooperation or sleep. I need to figure out one of 3 things: do I delegate this job? Do I do things that energize me? Or, do I dump something? Don’t expect to do the Christian life by yourself. It’s sure to fail, period. Before we can water others, we must make sure our bucket is full. When we are so full up of God ourselves, our ministry of love and exhortation and healing for others is simply the natural outcome. The more we come to Him for rest, the more we understand how He Himself is our rest. We come to Him because others are depending on us to be their rest as they travel on their journey. One thing that I thought would be fun if we had the time is for each of us to share stories that began with the line: “I was so tired once that I . . .” Share in comments - would love to hear your "tired" stories, unless you're too tired, of course.

Country singer/songwriter, Laurel Taylor knows who she is. It took a comment from Jlo on American Idol to make her realize that she didn't know who she was at one point. She needed to go back home and to her Gospel roots, and recognize that she belonged to God, He had given her these gifts, and she would live her life for his kingdom and glory. Laurel, 29, knew from age 15 she wanted to sing, and she began writing songs in earnest at 17. But then went off the rails for a time, separating herself from friends, family, and God. At a crossroads (literally), after having lost it all, she chose God—seriously and for herself, this time—not just because she was raised in the faith. And she hasn't looked back. Some gems from today's conversation: When you preach something, it comes across differently than when you sing it. People still saw me as the person in my past. And for me to move forward, I had to sing about it. I'm always looking for an opportunity to talk about the Lord. I communicate a melody that they can't get out of their head. That's my goal. I want to be known as a believer that loves Jesus with all their heart, and would go to the ends just to help someone, no matter what, and I always want to put myself last. I just want to be seen different. I don't want to be categorized as she's a church girl. I know that I'm nothing without the Lord. And I'm nothing without his lyrics, his melodies, you know, he can literally mess my voice up as soon as I open my mouth. I embody God's welcoming heart by giving Him the reins, every time. About Laurel by Laurel: HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW… I LOVE JESUS WITH ALL MY HEART I LOVE WRITING SONGS ABOUT FREEDOM, HEALING , AND RESTORATION I AM FROM ALABAMA , SO I SAY “ROLL TIDE” I AM A DOG MOM OF 2 I LIKE SMILEY FACES I WOULD LOVE TO PRAY FOR YOU She writes the music first, and then adds the lyrics, God-breathed, she says. And I believe it. Follow Laurel on instagram @laureltaylorofficial and you can hear her music on any of your listening platforms. Some of my favorite songs are: Song of Freedom, Healed, and her latest hit song, Old House. Hear a preview here. Bio: LAUREL TAYLOR IS AN ARTIST AND SINGER/SONGWRITER IN NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE. ORIGINALLY FROM ALABAMA, SHE MADE HER MOVE TO MUSIC CITY TEN YEARS AGO, RIGHT AFTER TURNING EIGHTEEN. FROM THE AMERICAN IDOL STAGE, TO TOOTSIES ON BROADWAY, TO THE LOCAL CHURCH LEADING WORSHIP, HER VOICE AND SOUND SPEAKS TO EVERY CROWD. LAUREL CARRIES AN EXCELLENT STAGE PRESENCE AND LIVE SHOW PERFORMANCE EVERYWHERE SHE GOES. SHE HAS A RAW COUNTRY SOUND, MINISTRY MINDSET, AND HER OWN UNIQUE STYLE. LAUREL USES HER LIFE STORIES TO SPEAK TO PEOPLE THRU HER MUSIC AND INTENTIONALLY WRITES FOR EVERYONE THAT LISTENS. Something new—a transcription of our conversation for those who'd rather read it or read along while listening. Sue Donaldson [00:00:01]: Good morning. Did you know that the most important thing about you is that God loves you? He loved you to the cross and back. And part of his great love is that he gives you a life that matters. You never have to wonder, do I matter? Do I count? You are number one in God's book and he gives you opportunities every day to live a life beyond yourself. Sue Donaldson [00:00:25]: I like to call it a legacy life. This is Sue Donaldson. As you listen today, ask God, show me how to spend today investing in people and your word. Because both last forever. There's no better way to live. Hello. Good morning. Today I have a very special guest. Well, I guess they're all special because in God's sides they are. But this is a fun one. I have never interviewed a country western singer songwriter. And today we have beautiful Laurel Taylor with us. Laurel, tell us a little bit where you live and where you're from and then we're going to get into some really great questions. Laurel Taylor [00:01:11]: Yeah, thanks for having me. I'm originally from Montgomery, Alabama, but I live in Nashville. I've lived in Nashville, Tennessee for over eleven years. Eleven years, exact, actually. And it has been quite a journey. I started in the country world thinking I was going to be the next Gretchen Wilson. And then I slowly have learned that even in that time I wanted what I wanted. And God has really taken me down a journey. Even when I wasn't holding on to his hand, I wasn't looking for his voice, I wasn't listening for his voice. I did American Idol and that took me to pop genre and then I gave my life to Christ in 2015 and I decided that this is the journey I'm going to go on. So I'm back in the roots of country, little bit of pop, little bit of rap, whatever the listening to here. But I love the Lord with all my heart. Sue Donaldson [00:02:14]: How old were you when you knew you wanted to sing as a performer? Laurel Taylor [00:02:20]: Probably 15 or 16 years old was when I started traveling to Nashville. Sue Donaldson [00:02:25]: Wow. And did you have parental support? Laurel Taylor [00:02:29]: Absolutely I did. It was

Ruthie Gray from Authentic Online Marketing and the Authentic Online Marketing Podcast shares her story of how God has led her the "second half of life"—something we are either in or heading towards. Ruthie's passion is to help women "grow up", try new things--even when it's terrifying—and help Christian women entrepreneurs succeed for the sake of the Kingdom of God. She's a wife of 35 years, mother of 4, grandmother, caregiver for the last 13 years and loves her Lord and the community she coaches and encourages. She acknowledges we can't grow and move forward without helping each other along the way. Listen and be encouraged - and take some time to dream and explore: What's next for your life? Some Ruthie gems: I love looking at Scripture as a whole and read the Bible through each year, starting the day with coffee and the Word. If you don't try new things you won't find out what you're best at, what gives you joy, what serves others and what's your superpower. You deserve to take some time to dream and explore what your next season will hold. Every time I try a new thing, I become apprehensive and fearful, but I don't want my fears to hold me back. I want my legacy to be one of courage and wisdom because I've walked with God. Are you starting a new business and want to connect authentically with your online people and grow your audience? Find out how Ruthie can help HERE. You can get to know Ruthie better and what she offers on her podcast: Authentic Online Marketing Podcast. Let us know in comments what dreams you are exploring. God loves you and you are not done yet.

The writer Maree Dee has two grown children with mental illness. When I interviewed her on my podcast she said, “It’s possible to experience joy and pain at the same time.” (Episode 75) How? Because she trusts God, no matter what. We never know what’s ahead of us each and every day, do we? We ask God each morning, “Lord, please give me wisdom and strength to face my day – and grace for those who need to know your joy and peace.” There’s a world of hurt out there and we need to be so filled with God’s Spirit that we are able to not only remain full when we come under attack, but we need to be so filled, that when jostled and banged around, that the grace and joy of Jesus spills out. Our benediction at Grace Church is Romans 15:13 – we say it as a congregation at the closing of the service –“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” We need to be giving this benediction to ourselves every day –maybe before our husbands get home or the kids or before we go into work: “Dear God of hope, please fill me with all joy and peace in believing – that I will abound and overflow with hope by Your power.” What helps you keep your cup full of joy? Share in comments and we will all be filled up a little better. Points to Ponder: Joy is the deep, quiet undercurrent that has its source in the eternal river of God Himself and His peace. That kind of joy can even underlie grief. We keep our cup full by recalling we are not alone. Your night of weeping may have been more like nights of weeping – I’ve smeared mascara on my sheets more than once. There’s got to be a country Western song by the name of What Do I Do With the Mascara On My Sheets? Weeping may endure, but there’s hope for the morning. (Psalm 30:5) Our maturity, our fruit-bearing, our witness for the Gospel—our JOY— is not dependent on another person or event or group of circumstances—like the perfect family reunion or holiday gathering. It is dependent on our own personal response to God and His Word.

Christy Boulware, author of Nervous Breakthrough: Finding Freedom from Fear and Anxiety in a World that Feeds It, learned from experience that living life on overdrive meant she was headed for distruction. On a family vacation one summer, she experienced her first panic attack and she didn't know what was happening to her. When her dr said, Christy, your body is telling you something's got to change and you need to get to the root of it." That began a process of recognizing she was living in fear and anxiety and the only way to change was to surrender to God. Surrender and give up her way of doing things, her timing of how things were to get done, and even changing a successful career to help others find freedom from their fears. Leave a comment on blog or social media to be entered into giveaway of her book: Nervous Breakthrough: Finding Freedom from Fear and Anxiety in a World that Feeds It Some gems: Just because you have fear, it doesn't mean you don't have faith. We can experience negative emotions; it's what we do with them that leads us to greater peace and less fear. Our body provides what I call "smoke alarms" that something needs to change and it's to our peril that we ignore them. We underestimate how much understanding God's love connects to our level of fear and anxiety. We overcome the snowballing effect of anxiety when we check our thoughts with truth at the top of the hill before it gets too big for us to control. I was stuck in self-reliance and addicted to success so I didn't need what God had to offer. Christy Boulware was stuck in self-reliance and addicted to success so she didn't need what God had to offer. Until her body told her a different story. Debilitated by days and weeks of panic attacks, Christy learned that the only way to change and fight her fears and anxieties was through getting to the root of them, and that took surrender. As a result of her work of faith to get her from fear and panic to using her experiences for the kingdom, Christy began the non-profit: Fearless Unite. See christyboulware.com for additional sources that help us when we are afraid and to keep our minds and hearts on the truth of God’s Word.

Rebecca George, podcaster, author and speaker is passionate about helping women find and live out their God-given purpose, all for heaven's sake. She wants to "leave a person better than she found them" which can be shown in the every day actions of love, action and encouragement. Rebecca's brand new book, Do the Thing: Gospel-Centered Goals, Gumption, and Grace for the Go-getter Girl helps the reader examine her joys, gifts, and heart-posture before her Creator-God and moves her into a life of purpose and surrender. She will be giving a copy away this week so be sure to comment on Blog or on Social Media to be entered. Rebecca's theme verse is Psalm 34:5--— Those who look to him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame. We light up our world from looking to Jesus. Hear Rebecca every Tuesday on her podcast, Radical Radiance and follow her on instagram @rebeccageorgeauthor. She offers a free journal SHINE BRIGHT on her website. Sign up here. Some gems: What gifts we have from God can translate into how we love others in our every day. God's at work all the time. How many opportunities do I miss to partner in His work by living unaware? The outcome is God's; the obedience is ours. To be available to God is to ask: How can I best love, serve and encourage anyone He brings into our lives on a daily basis? Are we turning to God's truth when faced with fear, doubt or insecurity?

A good definition of faith is: doing what God says and trusting Him with the results. It sounds good on paper. It can be hard in real life. Sometimes it can be hard to trust God to work through another person- or perhaps in spite of another person. To step out on faith may feel like we’re stepping off of cliff but once you step out you find it’s only a curb because God is there to break your fall. Pity the person who never takes that step to find that out. “Step out,” God says, “and you will find I am all you need.” For some, faith might mean closing your mouth and praying only: Hudson Taylor said, “Learn to move men by God through prayer alone.” That’s a tough one – especially for a woman, especially for an extrovert, especially for a red-headed extrovert. . . Faith may mean closing your mouth, AND, Faith may mean opening your mouth. Paul asked his friends in Colossians 4:3– “Pray that I talk freely of the mystery of Christ, that God would open the door. . .” You know when God is speaking to you. And if you’re not sure, like Peter, you can say, “Is that you, Lord?” And if it is, then it’s best to get out of the boat. God is calling for complete obedience for a complete faith. Hudson Taylor said: "Learn to move men by God through prayer alone." 7 ways to live in the unseen: God is doing His work in our lives and others (even when we can’t see it) II Corinthians 4:18; Our work for Him is not in vain I Cor. 15:58 “. . .be steadfast, abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.” That all things are working together for good who are called according to His purpose –Romans 8:28 That God is able to do abundantly above all that we ask or think – Ephesians 3:20 That He Who began a good work in us will complete it – Phil.1:6 That where there is weeping now, will turn to joy and laughter Luke 6:21 That nothing can separate me from the love of God – nothing – Romans 8:39

Rachel G. Scott, wife and mom of a blended family knows what it means to obey by faith, look to God for the next step and take that leap that needs taking. Founder of The 5 Leaps Podcast, Rachel is wise beyond her years and counsels her audience that there is more than one way to take a leap, five in fact. She explains there's a difference between being a "nice" Christian and a "kind" Christian, and her legacy is one we share: to serve God well and point her kids to Jesus. Today she's offering my listeners her free resource: The Five Leaps Quick Guide - click here. Tools to help you prepare, plan and execute your next leap. Love it and Rachel! Some Rachel gems: We need to always be leaning into what is that next leap God is leading us to make. The trailblazer goes where no one has gone before, teaching and bringing others along the way. I realized that there is more than one way to take a leap of obedience. I can envision the worst that can happen while considering the next leap and fight with God's truth my imaginations, speculations and negative thoughts. A "nice" Christian is different than a "kind" Christian; one is something we perform, the other is a posture of the heart. I want my kids to live a leaping lifestle so that obedience to God is natural for them. SOCIAL MEDIA Follow Follow Follow Facebook: /iamrachelgscott LinkedIn: /rachelgscott Instagram:/iamrachelgscott

Steve Leonard, of StephenDavidLeonard.com, joins me today to talk about Dad Guilt, parenting, gains and losses, identity, and living the abundant life. Steve and his wife, Lisa (of Lisa Leonard Designs) are the parents of two sons: David, 21 and Matthias, 19. Their world was changed dramatically when David was born with a rare genetic disorder, Cornelia DeLang Syndrome. You can read about it here. I first met the Leonards when they moved to San Luis Obispo when Steve became our Family and College Pastor. When Lisa's jewelry took off, Steve then moved out of formal ministry to help manage their fast-growing business. He discusses the challenges he faced in changing roles and parenting a boy becoming a man and moving off to college as well as one who will never move out and move on. Each son provides much joy in the Leonard's lives and we are blessed to know them in our little community. GIVEAWAY - Two Roman Cross Coin necklaces for two winners! To Enter: FOLLOW STEVE AND ME AND TAG A FRIEND Some Steve gems: I want to be someone who thinks "There you are!" vs "Here I am!" Being a dad has helped me understand God's heart a little bit more. We actually live between the first page and the last page of the Bible. Dad Guilt is real and less talked about, perhaps, because we are men. Living by "ought's and should's" can hinder the abundant life that God promised in Scripture. More than anything else, our son David has taught me that I am made in God's image and that is my worth. Steve is Founder and CEO of StephenDavidLeonard.com. Follow on Instagram @stephendavidleonard www.lisaleonard.com www.stephendavidleonard.com www.leonardgroup.com

Amy Fritz grew up loving Jesus but figured out along the way that something needed changing—not with Jesus and not with loving Jesus. That part remained true and held her and her husband, Nathan, fast through a painful and difficult process that included job loss and uncertainty. Rather, Amy learned she needed to step beyond her natural people-pleasing tendencies in order to remain true to God and pass on the legacy to her kids and others that following Jesus and doing the right thing is always the best choice. As host and founder of the popular podcast, Untangled Faith, Amy explores the sad truth that sometimes people in the faith community abuse their power and hurt others in the name of Christ. She doesn't throw out "church" - that's not God's plan. But she's taken a hard topic and helped people by sitting alongside of them in their pain and questions, inviting them to be with Jesus rather than simply a fan. And sometimes that's a hard choice, but always a good choice, to make. Amy is the founder/visionary/host of the Untangled Faith Podcast. She lives near Nashville with her husband, three children, and two dogs. She loves to read, write, talk, and connect people to other people and resources. She loves Jesus and hates spiritual abuse. Some gems from Amy: If we threw out every church because it was imperfect there would be nothing left. It doesn't matter what age you are when you lose a parent, you still feel orphaned. If you mom dies, you may need to go to therapy to learn how to talk to your dad. You can do the right things and life can still be very difficult. If you are disillusioned or hurt, don't throw out Jesus. Come sit next to me, there's room at my table.

Dale Masten loved Christ at an early age, and loves Him still at 60. In between years included times of doubt, questioning, skepticism, and looking for anywhere but up for life's answers. Yet, God kept calling him back and Dale listened. "I derailed but I kept coming back. I couldn't live without God." He also couldn't live very well without a new kidney which he received earlier this year after a 10-year-wait. He got the call from USC Medical Center on a Sunday afternoon. "We have a kidney. If you want it, you need to be here between 4 and 6 hours." Dale and his wife of 35 years, Jill, got into the car without packing and within 5 hours he was on the table, wondering at all that was about to happen. Dale knows that there is no meaning without God, faith grows in adversity and community, and that meaningful relationships begin with openness, love and vulnerability. He loves people. Reminded me of Jesus. You will be challenged and encouraged today with Dale's story. Some gems from today's podcast: God honors the process and builds character through suffering. We need to be intentional with our gratitude or it quickly subsides into taking things for granted. I celebrate that God made me someone who is voraciously interested in people. Vulnerability is the gateway to intimacy. I had a new kidney but I still had my same old character flaws.

Author, speaker, podcaster, Ashley Hales, talks today on how to find holy and be faithful to God wherever He's placed you. "How easy it is," she explains, "to look for our value or distract us from the hard stuff by leaning on stuff—bigger homes, safer places, or a simple To-Do List crossed off on a daily basis." She writes in Finding Holy in the Suburbs: Living Faithfully in the Land of Too Much—"To fill my infinite things with finite things, the more distance I put between God and myself. And the more I do that, it creates a way of being." Leave a comment on blog or social media to be entered in a giveaway for Finding Holy in the Suburbs. Follow Ashley at aahales.com where you can read about her ministry, writing and speaking. Ashley is a mom of four, wife of a pastor here in San Luis Obispo, and seeks to follow Jesus and love others right where she is. Some gems: We get antsy waiting on God so we ask our stuff to save us. God has made us hungry people but we remain unsatiated until we feed on Him first and foremost. Hospitality means making room in our lives and hearts for whomever God brings our way. The cross is the basis of our hospitality; Christ broken for us is God's invitation to come to Him. I want to pay attention to the work God has for me to do TODAY and not worry about may or may not get accomplished. We can't do Kingdom life by doing rather than being. Like maps like my Man-in-Plaid? Here's one for you. Ashley and her husband, Bryce have a new podcast: The Cartographers: Charting the cultural landscape for 21st century Christian Leaders _____ When asked, “What’s the greatest commandment?” Jesus replied simply: “Love God, love your neighbor.” I imagine He was thinking, “It’s not rocket science” or “What’s not to like?” or “It’s not complicated.” He was right, it’s not complicated. But people are people and we make it complicated. I need to pray daily to uncomplicate what He says is best for me and best for others. So I wrote “31 Days of Uncomplicated Prayers,” and once I pray them through, I start over again. You can too. One short, simple prayer to help uncomplicate love sent to your inbox for 31 days. Don't worry. They are short. God doesn't mind short prayers. Sign up HERE

If we want a deeper faith, we can ask God for it. He knows our hearts anyway, so we may as well be honest. When we ask God for more faith, He will do one of three things: He will ask you to do something really big He will allow challenging circumstances He will give you children (or someone to love)—or all three at the same time. And then your faith will have an opportunity to deepen. Perhaps you’ve heard this before but it’s a good reminder: Everything I need to know about life, I learned from Noah's Ark: One : Don't miss the boat. Two : Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when Noah built the Ark. Three : Stay fit. When you're 600 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big. My favorite is the last one: “Stay fit. When you’re 600 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.” Your life’s not over because you’re 40 or 50 or 60 or 600. Just ask Noah. So we better stay fit. Spiritually and every way. Of course, it wouldn’t matter if Noah were fit at 600 if he had no intention of obeying God, would it? Part of our spiritual fitness is a heart of obedience. By faith, I invited my neighbor for coffee, dinner, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve Soup Potluck, dinner, zoom Bible Study and wine night. Two and a half years later, she said, "Is it too late to join Bible Study?" (Never) Four months later she gave her life to Jesus. On one sunny but chilly Sunday in February, she got baptized in a very cold water tub. Point #1: Obedience could save a life. Jesus obeyed and went to the cross. Point #2: Never give up. Some faith-isms: There are no small acts of obedience. All take faith. If you want faith, God may ask you to do something really big – and you’d better do it because it could save a life. A life of faith means we answer “Yes, Lord” before He even finishes His sentence. The more we obey what He tells us to do, the deeper our faith will become. We miss out on a chance to know God if we stay in the boat after He’s told us to get out and come to Him. GIVEAWAY! 202 Conversation Starters, Digital Version Leave comment to be entered! You won't be sorry. Steve and Karen, empty-nesters, are going through each question - one or two a meal - and still (after more than 50 years!) are learning new things about each other!

Carol Feil wants you to see our faithful God, the Master Gardener, in all details of your life. She wants you to know that being rooted in His unchanging character helps you dig deep into His word, cultivating growth even in seasons of dormancy. Carol wears yellow boots in the garden and calls them her "listen and learn boots", paying close attention to what God's teaching her about Himself and who He wants her to be. Carol admits she struggles with imposter syndrome but continues to walk forward in her legacy of faith footprints—boot-sized!—and praying that whoever she meets will follow alongside. Do you want help replacing should with could? Carol has an added resource that will help you with that process. CLICK HERE FOR FREE RESOURCE. Some gems from Carol: Knowing God's will is more about the little things he leads us to be and do. "Shoulding" messages in our heads are lies that play on-repeat and need to be countered with truth. Roses grow best when pruned. So do I. We need to be patient with the process of replenishment. What thoughts need reframing? Pay attention and do the work of replacing. In the absense of truth, Satan will fill in the blanks with his lies. Join Carol on the journey to developing deeper roots and stronger shoots: Website: https://carolfeil.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolfeil/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarolFeilWriter _____ When asked, “What’s the greatest commandment?” Jesus replied simply: “Love God, love your neighbor.” I imagine He was thinking, “It’s not rocket science” or “What’s not to like?” or “It’s not complicated.” He was right, it’s not complicated. But people are people and we make it complicated. I need to pray daily to uncomplicate what He says is best for me and best for others. So I wrote “31 Days of Uncomplicated Prayers,” and once I pray them through, I start over again. You can too. One short, simple prayer to help uncomplicate love sent to your inbox for 31 days. Don't worry. They are short. God doesn't mind short prayers. Sign up HERE

Jillian Benfield got the news that her second child, Anderson, was Down Syndrome. This news was not her life-plan. Then just four months after his birth, he underwent open-heart surgery. Then their third child, Preston suffered medical procedures for the first two years of his life. Jillian wrote her book, The Gift of the Unexpected: Discovering Who You Were Meant to Be When Life Goes Off Plan, not as a how-to book on how to get through life's difficulties; rather she wrote her own story--the good, bad and the ugly--to offer hope. Wise beyond her years, Jillian's story has much to teach us about theology, Western thought, ableism and how if we are willing to put in the work, that God will transform us from the inside out, for our good and for His glory. Get this book, for yourself and for a friend. She's giving one away this week. Leave on comment on blog or on social media or email me at [email protected]. In her own words: My life fell apart with a 20-second phone call. We call these moments in life, before-and-after moments. Mine came when I was 27 years old and pregnant with my second child. My life would never be the same, I would never be the same. If you would have told me years ago that my before-and-after moment would end up being one of the greatest gifts of my life, I wouldn’t have believed you. But it was. It is. The unexpected gave me my son. The unexpected ended up giving me, me. That’s what my book, The Gift of the Unexpected, and this space are about. Our unexpected moments, our unexpected lives, can end up helping us live into our God-dreamed entireties. Some gems from Jillian: God doesn't need pretend versions of ourselves, but all of who we are. I want my legacy to be one of openness: open to being wrong, to being willing to evolve, to never close off my circle of friends. A different kind of life is not a less-than life. Western culture wants us "rushing through our pain" rather than learning from it. What I've learned is that God continuously provides resurrection for us now, not only at the end of our lives. God takes dead things and makes them new when we look to Him, lean on Him and take the next step. To undergo a trial vs overcome a trial takes time, counsel, reflection on who we are at our core and an understanding of what may need some transformation. Follow Jillian here: Website: https://jillianbenfield.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jillianbenfield/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/JillianBenfieldBlog/ _____ When asked, “What’s the greatest commandment?” Jesus replied simply: “Love God, love your neighbor.” I imagine He was thinking, “It’s not rocket science” or “What’s not to like?” or “It’s not complicated.” He was right, it’s not complicated. But people are people and we make it complicated. I need to pray daily to uncomplicate what He says is best for me and best for others. So I wrote “31 Days of Uncomplicated Prayers,” and once I pray them through, I start over again. You can too. One short, simple prayer to help uncomplicate love sent to your inbox for 31 days. Don't worry. They are short. God doesn't mind short prayers. Sign up HERE

Susan Macias says as long as we have breath to breathe, Jesus still has a work for me to do. I love that and most likely I have fewer breaths to breathe than most of you. And it's still true. Don't you love it too? We never run out of purpose, and that purpose is to partner alongside of God Himself to do Kingdom work. Thanks for the reminder, Susan! As a mother of 7 and an empty nester, Susan knew what it meant to have a full parenting life (homeschooler, too) and then "all of a sudden" an empty house, but not an empty life. She started her podcast: "We're Not Done Yet!" She hosted me late last year about hospitality and she said it was a hit. Listen HERE. One of Susan's passions and books is to help women walk out their identity in Christ. She's hosting a giveaway for: Putting Jesus On: My Identity Journal. Leave a comment in blog or on social media to be entered. About Susan, in her own words: I’m a fifty-something mom of seven and grandmother of eight. I love my husband, my family, and living in Texas. But above all I love Jesus, and I adore talking about Him After homeschooling for twenty-seven years, I now answer God’s new call in my life. As a Christian writer and speaker, I use honesty, transparency, truth from the Word, and a little humor. And I strive to exhort women to engage in their circumstances so that God is glorified and the Kingdom is expanded. Few things thrill me like sharing Jesus with my sisters. Oh friend, the Lord calls us to His purposes. Let’s keep fighting the good fight, even when we feel we don’t have much fight left. Jesus will enable us because the hurting world needs us! Some gems from Susan: Considering the next call on your life may seem scary so take one small next step towards that direction. As long as we have breath to breathe, Jesus still has a work for me to do. Are you brave enough to be small when God's called you to be small? Putting on what and who God has called me to be makes me beautiful. _________ When asked, “What’s the greatest commandment?” Jesus replied simply: “Love God, love your neighbor.” I imagine He was thinking, “It’s not rocket science” or “What’s not to like?” or “It’s not complicated.” He was right, it’s not complicated. But people are people and we make it complicated. I need to pray daily to uncomplicate what He says is best for me and best for others. So I wrote “31 Days of Uncomplicated Prayers,” and once I pray them through, I start over again. You can too. One short, simple prayer to help uncomplicate love sent to your inbox for 31 days. Don't worry. They are short. God doesn't mind short prayers. Sign up HERE Some samples: Sign up HERE and feel free to share link with a friend. We are all a little complicated. Love God. Love your neighbor. It’s not complicated.

We should be experts dealing with difficult people because in one way or another, everyone is difficult. Today we discuss something we all encounter: The Difficult Person. And sometimes that person is us/moi. What makes a person difficult? Do degrees of difficulty matter? What are some practical ways to navigate a relationshiop with a diffiuclt person without moving to Australia? I love people. Especially the loveable ones. I think I love people well until I come across a difficult person. On today's podcast we talk about 8 practices to consider while relating with the less-than-easy person in our lives. You’ve heard the expression, “Hurt people hurt people.” I forget that fact when I’m the object of that hurt. When difficult people lash out, I want to listen with my heart, not just my ears. If we keep an issue to ourselves and take the tact of Suck it up, Buttercup things smooth over temporarily, but could lead to bigger issues. When I think how I’ve grieved God and hurt others, I’m well on my way to loving the difficult person. Forbearance is putting up with more than you are due (or that you THINK you are due!) The thing is we want everyone to forbear with us, but forget to forbear with everyone else. Living peacefully with others is often a matter of perspective _________ When asked, “What’s the greatest commandment?” Jesus replied simply: “Love God, love your neighbor.” I imagine He was thinking, “It’s not rocket science” or “What’s not to like?” or “It’s not complicated.” He was right, it’s not complicated. But people are people and we make it complicated. I need to pray daily to uncomplicate what He says is best for me and best for others. So I wrote “31 Days of Uncomplicated Prayers,” and once I pray them through, I start over again. You can too. One short, simple prayer to help uncomplicate love sent to your inbox for 31 days. Don't worry. They are short. God doesn't mind short prayers. Sign up HERE Some samples: Sign up HERE and feel free to share link with a friend. We are all a little complicated. Love God. Love your neighbor. It’s not complicated.

Rachel Dodge understands the importance of "kindred spirits" as a writer, speaker and friend. She began writing companion devotionals for such classics as Anne of Green Gables, Little Women, The Secret Garden and is an expert on all things Jane Austen. What a fun conversation we had about what it means to be a "kindred spirit" and how she goes about her writing process to bring Gospel truth from popular literary classics for all ages. Her latest offering is The Secret Garden Devotional: A Chapter by Chapter Companion to a Beloved Classic Rachel is hosting a giveaway this week and I will add a copy of the book The Secret Garden so you can be blessed as you read or re-read the book alongside of her devotional. Some gems: We are adopted into God's kingdom so what better theme to focus on in Anne with an "e", a redheaded orphan longing to belong to a family. Good literature includes pictures on earth to help us relate to biblical truths. A "kindred spirit" is someone with similar sensibilities of things that delight us! I want my books to be an act of invitation for people to know and love God more. RACHEL DODGE is the bestselling author of the award-winning Anne of Green Gables Devotional, The Little Women Devotional, and Praying with Jane: 31 Days through the Prayers of Jane Austen. Her newest book is The Secret Garden Devotional! Rachel teaches college English; speaks at libraries, literary groups, and teas; and writes for Jane Austen’s World. A true kindred spirit at heart, she loves books, bonnets, and ballgowns. You can visit her at RachelDodge.com or on IG @kindredspiritbooks. Be sure to comment on blog or instagram or FB to be entered to win her book! _________ When asked, “What’s the greatest commandment?” Jesus replied simply: “Love God, love your neighbor.” I imagine He was thinking, “It’s not rocket science” or “What’s not to like?” or “It’s not complicated.” He was right, it’s not complicated. But people are people and we make it complicated. I need to pray daily to uncomplicate what He says is best for me and best for others. So I wrote “31 Days of Uncomplicated Prayers,” and once I pray them through, I start over again. You can too. One short, simple prayer to help uncomplicate love sent to your inbox for 31 days. Don't worry. They are short. God doesn't mind short prayers. Sign up HERE Some samples: Sign up HERE and feel free to share link with a friend. We are all a little complicated. Love God. Love your neighbor. It’s not complicated.

Sarah Geringer walked down the lane close to her Missouri home and began to notice things, simple things that helped her find the presence of God, her Hidden Manna, and with that, a deeper trust in God's provision while praying for herself and others. From her experience came her latest book, Hidden Manna on a Country Road: Seeing God's Provision All Around Us. Leave a comment on blog or social media to be entered in a giveaway. What a beautiful way to pray through the seasons no matter if you live in the city or country. I first spoke with Sarah on Ep 64 "Transform Your Mind" where we discussed her great book, Transforming Your Thought Life: Christian Meditation in Focus Artist, author, speaker and gardener, and mother of three, Sarah Geringer loves her Missouri home, God's Word, and coming alongside others for prayer and counsel. For fun things like why she loves sunflowers and how James Taylor "changed her life," view her website: sarahgeringer.com Some gems from today's episode: A need for human connection is coded into our DNA. Paying attention to birdsong in Spring helps me come to God in praise and thankgiving, no matter what hard things I'm experiencing. I can get caught up in thinking I'm pretty decent until I remember all Christ did for me on the Cross. My faith is strengthened when I look for hidden manna—simple things in nature that reflect God's presence and provision. We can come boldly to the throne of grace only because Jesus paid for my sins. Sarah is an active member of my facebook group: Welcome Heart, Welcome Home sharing her favorite recipes and welcoming others in. Check it out here. Be sure to comment on blog or social media to be entered to win: Hidden Manna on a Country Road: Seeing God's Provision All Around Us. _________ When asked, “What’s the greatest commandment?” Jesus replied simply: “Love God, love your neighbor.” I imagine He was thinking, “It’s not rocket science” or “What’s not to like?” or “It’s not complicated.” He was right, it’s not complicated. But people are people and we make it complicated. I need to pray daily to uncomplicate what He says is best for me and best for others. So I wrote “31 Days of Uncomplicated Prayers,” and once I pray them through, I start over again. You can too. One short, simple prayer to help uncomplicate love sent to your inbox for 31 days. Don't worry. They are short. God doesn't mind short prayers. Sign up HERE Some samples: Sign up HERE and feel free to share link with a friend. We are all a little complicated. Love God. Love your neighbor. It’s not complicated.

Author, speaker, podcaster, Rachael Adams, saw the offering envelope that read, "Love Offering" and wondered what should or could she give? She heard God say, "You are my love offering." That small exchange sealed the deal. Rachael, like many young mothers, had been struggling with questions such as, "Does what I do matter for the Kingdom?" "I'm working at what I need to do to keep my family healthy and happy, yet, I wonder, is that enough? Do I need to do more to live a life of significance?" Going to God and the Word, Rachael found the answer to all those questions and more. She recognized her where her significance lay and wrote that message in her book, "A Little Goes a Long Way: 52 Days to a Significant Life." She's hosting a giveaway this week—be sure to comment on blog or social media to be entered. Some gems from this wise young woman from Kentucky: A significant life is more simple than we think. We don't give to others and then worry about the outcome. Pray that the Gospel spreads everywhere you go. Culture tells is loud is better, big is better—but God just wants our surrender on a daily basis. I wanted to keep a record of how God was working—not to be doing just one more thing—but so that I could see that what I did for Him and by Him—no matter how small—makes a difference for the Kingdom. Pray to help us see others as God sees them, significant and loved. Author of A Little Goes a Long Way and host of The Love Offering podcast Rachael Adams hopes to help women realize their God-given purpose and significance. She and her husband, Bryan, run a family business and farm in Kentucky with their two children, Will and Kate, and two dogs. Her work has been featured on Crosswalk, iBelieve, Today Parenting, and YouVersion. Connect with her by visiting rachaelkadams.com, by searching @rachaeladamsauthor on social media, and by tuning in to The Love Offering podcast every Tuesday on your favorite listening platform. Comment on Social Media or on my blog to be entered into giveaway.

The last words of Christ to his disciples were straightforward and clear: “GO AND MAKE DISCIPLES OF ALL NATIONS . . .” (Matthew 28:18-20 NIV) We call it the GREAT COMMISSION and put it in capital letters because we know Jesus’s last words deserve all caps. But whenever we hear a message on the topic or come across those verses in our reading, we cringe a little or wonder how they fit into our everyday. You might be asking: How does God want his commandment played out in my life? I’m not a missionary in a foreign country. I have three kids under three. I need to work outside the home. I have aging parents. How do I do the Great Commission right now, right here? I’ve had those same questions. I still struggle wondering what God wants from me on any given day. I don’t think he minds that things aren’t crystal clear. He likes it that I’m focused on how to obey him best. He wants me to live a life on mission and how I do that will most likely look different from how it looks in your life. GO, BUT NOT BY YOURSELF I love that the GREAT COMMISSION starts with God and ends with God. You and I don't go by ourselves. He's with us. He never leaves us. He gives us the time, the opportunity, the words. We just step into those gifts. Reminds me of my WOTY - I RECEIVE these opportunities and wisdom and timing and words. Bring it on! Jesus begins by saying, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me…” (Matthew 28:18 NIV) Then he wraps it up with: “And surely I am with you always.” (vs 20) Whatever we do in between those two truths is up to us to work out the best we can, given our gifts, time and talents. LIVING LIFE ON MISSION MEANS LIVING AT THE READY What do you need to do to be ready to love your neighbor? Clear your schedule Pray and watch God interrupt your life Bake a cake Share some lemons You may have paused with number one: Clear your schedule. I intentionally limit my meet-up’s with believers. I love and need my Christian friends, and they need me. I met with Laurie Baldwin today. I'll meet with my mentor tomorrow. But in the end, I’ll see them in Glory. I try to keep part of my schedule cleared so that I’m available to those who don’t know Jesus yet. My Dad’s Favorite Lemon Cake 1 lemon cake mix 1 small pkg. lemon jello (orange works, too - oh, and pineapple!) 4 eggs 3/4 c. water 3/4 c. oil Topping: 1-2 cups powdered sugar Juice from one lemon - 2-3 T. Preheat oven 350 degrees Mix cake ingredients per box directions including the jello Pour into sprayed 9x13 cake pan While baking, make topping: Heat lemon juice on stove on low with 2 c. powdered sugar until sugar dissolves. Or, forget the heating part, and just whisk until the lumps disappear. While cake is still hot, make holes 2 inches apart with a fork--lots and lots of holes. Pour topping over, watch it soak in, and smack your lips. Divine, surely. Heavenly tang and sweet. After cake cools, sprinkle with powdered sugar. PS Call a neighbor

Writer, speaker, gatherer, Betsy Pendergrass and I could be sisters. My southern sister from Tennesee. You will see why when you hear today's episode on making space at the table—a beautiful legacy of hospitality and mentoring. Betsy and her husband Taylor and their four kids know the significance of inviting one—or six—to join them at the table, living room or backyard. More than ever today, Betsy says, people need connecting and to embrace God's love through our love, and live out from their identity as a child of God. Betsy is hosting a giveaway all week long of her beautiful set of cards: DATE NIGHT CARDS. Leave a comment to be entered here on the blog, fb, instagram or send me an email at [email protected] This set of 10 date night cards was created to help married couples spice their conversations. Each card covers a different subject that couples can ask each other while on a date night, road trip, running errands or just use for a fun date night at home on the couch. These were created by both Taylor and me and that is why I think we have had so many men enjoy these cards and want to use them again and again. Betsy is taking a break from social media and her website for a bit. Some Betsy gems: When you pray, ask the Lord, "Where's Your heart on this and how can I partner with You?" Invite two college students at a time. They will feel more comfortable bringing a friend (and let them bring their laundry!) We underestimate the power of prayer so we go through a house "cleansing" while praying through and over every room in the home. People just want to be seen and heard and to know that someone has made a space for them.