Help me Create a Title

~ Barbara ~ 14 Comments

Help me Create a Title

This picture is only a mock-up of a possible cover for my new book. I need your help to settle on a title. I wrote 60 devotional meditations because I felt that my book, I was Broken, Too, wasn’t enough for those in the thick of their struggle. They need someone to whisper in their ear for at least two months, reminding them they can get through this, God is there to strengthen them, and He has a future for them.

I want to come alongside these unknown friends and say, “I was there and I couldn’t imagine a future either, but God brought me through and He’ll do the same for you.”

I’ve become so hung up on the title that I have lost objectivity, so I’m looking to you for feedback. Here are 4 suggestions but I’m open. What do you think?

  • Walking Broken
  • Facing Brokenness
  • Hope in the Valley
  • Beyond Heartbreak

I Love Spring

~ Barbara ~ 1 Comment

I love to watch the unfolding of spring as I search for glimpses of green on barren branches.

I love the discovery of purple and white crocuses breaking through winter’s softened soil.

I love spring’s early, bright yellow greeters—the swaying forsythia  and bobbing daffodils.

I love longer days, warmer walks, and calmer breezes.

I love the excitement of spotting my first robin and the expectation of goldfinches and hummingbirds.

I love the greening of the grass and the promise of garden produce, local and fresh.

I love peepers chirping their spring welcome, even when their cacophony begins to grate.

I love packing away my winterwear in exchange for pastels and lightweight wraps.

I love seeing children on their bikes and hearing them laugh on playgrounds.

I love the spectacular appearance of pink cherry blossoms and magnificent magnolias.

I love outdoor gatherings, firepit conversations, and rocking on the front porch.

I love God’s creation of seasons and that New Jersey gloriously displays each one.

He changes times and seasons…

Daniel 2:21

Mary, the Mourning Mother

~ Barbara ~ 1 Comment

Mary did you know that your baby boy… Would save our sons and daughters?
Did you know that your baby boy… Will soon deliver you.*

Mary had direct conversation with an angel and was told her son would be the Son of God who would reign forever, but we don’t know the depth of Mary’s understanding. She knew enough to tell Jesus they ran out of wine at the wedding in Cana. She told the servants to do whatever He told them. What as she expecting—then, and as His ministry grew?

She heard Jesus teach and saw Him heal. She was aware of His popularity and unusual lifestyle. Did she understand where this was leading? Or was she, like the disciples, expecting Him to bring about an earthly change?

Mary gave birth to Jesus, raised Him, watched Him work in Joseph’s shop. She followed His ministry, as any mother would. She also followed Him to the cross. How could she abide the cruelty, mockery, and suffering? Still, she watched, wouldn’t you? What was she hoping for?

None of us would choose to suffer as Mary did. And none of us have to, even if we’ve also lost a child. The anguish of that day subdues all grief by its eternal hope. We are saved for a future without tears or sorrow, a forever filled with joy and peace. Because of heaven’s perfect Lamb, Mary’s grief, and ours, will be dispelled. Mourning mothers and all believers in Christ will, with dried tears, one day rule the nations with Him, the Lord of all creation.

Mary, did you know that your baby boy Is Lord of all creation?
Mary, did you know that your baby boy Would one day rule the nations?
Did you know that your baby boy Is heaven’s perfect Lamb?

*“Mary, Did You Know?” Songwriters: Mark Lowry / Buddy Greene

Mary, the Wild Woman

~ Barbara ~ 3 Comments

Mary Magdalene had her demons… tormenting and tenacious. She also had her Deliverer… almighty and authoritative. Jesus set Mary free, as He sets us free. Our “demons” may not cause us to shriek or writhe on the ground, but they are as evil and powerful as Mary’s were.

Our evil is more sophisticated. Our anger is labeled impatience; our jealousy is called wanting what’s fair; our self-pity is described as self-care; our unforgiveness is named justification; and our bitterness is said to be reasonable. They are quieter than Mary’s demons, but as dangerous. Thank God, we have the same Deliverer, with the same power, mercy, and authority.

As one who is delivered from sin, I want to live the thankful life Mary lived, echoing her devotion and honoring my Savior. I want to follow Him as she did, pursuing His presence and worshiping at the cross.

How amazing that the first person Jesus appeared to after His resurrection was not one of the twelve, but a former demon possessed woman. Jesus chose Mary Magdalene for this honor and she could not keep quiet.

Lord, like Mary may I be untamed in testifying of your goodness and power, proclaiming your death and resurrection to the Marys of this world.

Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: ”I have seen the Lord!”

John 20:18