by Cathy Baker @cathysbaker
Welcome! This month we’re talking about all things love.
Last week, our area experienced a dusting of snow. Enough to brighten the spirit but not enough to make snow cream. Still, it made for an interesting backdrop for an idea I’d had since purchasing this heart-shaped chalkboard at Target a few weeks ago.
In a snap, I handed Brian chalk for writing the series title on the board while I grabbed my sweater, scarf, and brand new camera (thanks to my awesome hubster!)
After returning from our photo excursion we couldn’t wait to upload the pics. Being the perfectionists that we are, the first thing we noticed was the erasure mark around the top of the “L”. For a moment, we considered pulling out the sweaters and camera to run outdoors for a redo… but something within whispered,
Funny how that works. I have no problem admiring blue Mason jars with crusty lids or drinking tea from a cup with a few tea stains dappled here and there. Yet, sometimes I miss the beauty found in loving those, who like myself, have crusty edges if something doesn’t go as expected. Or those who’ve been stained by past choices, circumstances, fears and such. {Yes, we are clean in Christ, but consequences can often linger a little longer. Sometimes, a lifetime. Trust me.}
I don’t know about you but I was raised not to focus on myself — to put others first. I’m thankful for it, but when it comes to love⎯real love⎯we must look at ourselves first because if we’re confident in God’s love despite our own crusty edges and permeated stains, then we are empowered by a Love greater than we comprehend to extend that same real love to others…even when it gets messy.
This month we’ll focus on the subject of love in all kinds of ways. Beginning with this Wednesday’s post. When I thought of ways we could love our neighbors and community well with the love of Christ, Kim Steele Rhodes immediately came to mind. Join us as she shares how her family celebrates Val Day. You do not want to miss this!
Before we close out, congrats to Lori! You won the Dayspring journal that I secretly wanted to keep. Please message me via Facebook with your mailing address.
Ahhhh And love your photo journey beginnings
Thank you, Marcia! 🙂 I'm thoroughly enjoying the journey. Much to learn, that's for sure. Thanks for stopping by!
Cathy love the photo, the focus this month and your blog. Our Church is doing a year long series on Loving God, Church and Neighbor. First weeks are on Loving God. And how do I get your blog first hand? I'm only seeing it through other's repost.
Hi Daphne! You just made my day! Love seeing your sweet smile on the blog. 🙂 You should be able to sign up just beneath the 2015 Blogging Excellence graphic. If you enter your email, it should deliver straight to your inbox. Please let me know if you have any trouble! You'll definitely want to check back on Wednesday. Such great ideas on loving our neighbors with the gospel on holidays!
Are you planning to go to Blue Ridge? Blessings from SC!!
This was great. And photo was beautiful. Enjoy your new camera ��
This is great. Beautiful picture too. Enjoy your new camera!
Thank you, Beth! Hope you're doing well. Miss you. 🙂
Smudges show character marks. Leaving the "L" with a dusty shadow makers her charming.
Your scripture picture has so much class, character and charm too, I had to add it to the Christian Communicators' Pinterest board called Scriptures and Quotes. Others will enjoy enjoy it this February too.
Share on!
Thanks so much, Carolyn! I like your term "dusty shadow" — I'll have to share it with Brian. 🙂 I appreciate your pinning the scripture picture. Blessings!!
So well written! Much love to you from your crusty friend!
Thank you, Becky! Two crusties are better than one, right? 🙂 I think that's why God has allowed our paths to not only cross, but also to merge in God-glorifying ways. Thankful for you, my friend. And thanks for taking the time to comment! What a blessing. 🙂
Love this new series! Love the photo! Love you, dear friend!
Thanks Dee Dee! Love you too!! 🙂
Wow, Brian is quite the artistic one! Looking forward to this new series. 🙂 Congrats to Lori for the journal!
Yes, he's my favorite photographer! Thanks so much for stopping by. 🙂