Gluten Free Me

I have been recovering from a number of health issues. About 6 weeks ago, I decided to give up gluten and sugar for Lent. I usually don't give up anything during Lent but it seemed fitting since I wanted to try 6 weeks of eating this way which is about 40 days. Plus I figured that perhaps I would draw strength from knowing that others are abstaining from this or that.

Soooo. . .here are some reflections from gluten free me. Brown rice takes 45 minutes to cook. Brown rice chips are tasty. Brown rice bread has an interesting texture and is expensive. Brown rice pasta is better than wheat in my opinion. So you probably get the picture that I've been eating a lot of brown rice products. Beans and corn are my gluten free friends. Eating out can be a pain unless it's tex mex which I really dig anyway. Thai and Indian food are also really good picks. I miss pizza.

I miss brownies and chocolate. I have noticed that once I gave up sugar and in my case including fruit, it tastes incredibly sweet when I have a nibble. Yes, I've had a few but I must say that there are quite tiny. The taste is so sweet that I don't really want a lot of it. So that's a bonus. It does seem possible to train our tastes.

A friend and I did go to one of my favorite restaurants in Dallas called Bread Winner's this past week. Just the name of it should scream, "Making provision for the flesh". I knew I would eat the bread when I sat down and yet my portion was much less than usual. However, did this momentary relapse affect me? I confess that I ate a portion of my sister's delicious banana bread today. It is a helpful analogy of letting sin in~ we open the door a tiny bit and then get used to the taste so that pretty soon we indulge more frequently, forgetting the consequences will come.

I haven't seen all the results I was hoping for and yet I am experiencing progress. I think this means I will need to remain on this eating plan for longer than 40 days. uggh. I have to remind myself that my health is worth the delayed gratification. That's on my good days. On my bad days, I think, "Why do I have to eat this way when most of humanity is partaking of dessert, fried foods and Diet Coke?" I am going on vacation mid May so my new goal is to see further results in the next 6 weeks so I can relax my eating. Please pray for this sister's full recovery. By the way, my hat goes off to those of you who eat consistently gluten and/or sugar free.

The Mysterious Side of Life

Jane Austen is a personal heroine of mine. A friend of mine gave me a plastic figurine of Jane which I placed in a strategic spot as I wrote the study Capture My Heart, Lord. It seemed fitting to have such a great author watching over me as I worked. One of the best elements of Jane's stories is the mystery of the character of the suitors toward the leading lady. You don't quite know who is really being true to themselves or putting up a front. In the end, the true colors are displayed along with a dose of humility on the part of both romantic parties.

Life is full of mystery~ there are just things I don't get like why The Bachelor turns out the way it does. OK, I'm a little embarassed but do admit that I got sucked in this season and may have to post my thoughts. The show is a fascinating study in relating albeit not healthy in the way it can escalate the insecurites of women. On the deeper side of life, I think about the mystery of the human body, the universe, the existence of God.

When life takes a turn we didn't anticipate, we are faced with the element of mystery as God writes our stories. Merriam Webster defines mystery as "something not understood or beyond understanding". In our humanity, we attempt to offer ourselves or one another some explanation for what has transpired so that there can be a more defined "why" behind it. I'm not sure why we do this except to make ourselves feel in control since perhaps we want to keep God's ways within certain limits or to make others feel better by providing an answer.

However, the very nature of a mystery is that it is beyond our understanding. Why a friend suffers physically, why another one goes through a painful divorce, why a loved one passes away at a certain time, and the questions remain unanswered. God's ways are mysterious and many times the best approach is "I hurt with you. I don't know why this is happening."

Even though the unraveling of our stories involves mystery that in many cases we may not have answers for in this lifetime, the mystery has been solved about God's character since He says so much about who He is in His word. God doesn't always explain the "whys" behind what He does although He does give us a heads up that the element of mystery will be part of our journeys by expressing that His ways are not our ways and His thoughts are not ours. A mentor of mine in seminary encouraged me to ask the question "What does God want me to know about Him?" through every experience I encounter. This question has helped me as I learn to embrace mystery.

Reflections on Valentine's Day

SEND CAPTURE MY HEART, LORD AS A VALENTINE'S GIFT. FREE SHIPPING AND HANDLING IN THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY IN HONOR OF THE FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF THE BOOK RELEASE! CLICK ON THE STUDY TO THE RIGHT AND FOLLOW THE LINK.

February 14th is on its way! Whether you are married, divorced, dating or can't remember the definition for the word "date" because it's been so long, the mention of the day seems to elicit a variety of responses. I love pink, roses and hearts so the ambiance behind Valentine's is really appealing but the reminder that I'm without a "romantic pursuer" much less husband is not so attractive. However, I do know that many women who are married or have been in a marriage relationship would readily remind us single gals that marriage is many times a tool of sanctification (God's spiritual sandpaper hurts!).

Soooo. . .I've been thinking about what is behind all the hype. In my mind, it seems to come down to the reality of love. We experience love through people whether it's a kind word, affection, thoughtful gift or heartfelt prayer. There is a longing to know love at the deepest level and people are part of that knowing. God defines Himself as love so the longing is truly to experience Him at the very core of our being. I believe God uses romantic love with a man as a way to reveal more of Himself~ even when a man fails to show the love of God or there is not a man to do so, it is a loss and should be grieved as so. As Dr. Henry Cloud says, "grieve your losses daily". This means have Kleenex and waterproof mascara on hand.

Losses and longings can cause us women to look to the Author of Love. I was reminded of this last year when we celebrated the publishing of Capture My Heart, Lord on Valentine's Day. I had tried to plan the book launch party multiple times before it became apparent that God wanted to put His fingerprints on Valentine's Day. He reminded me that even our best attempts at human love pale in comparison to His perfect, restoring love which heals our hearts. I had invited a godly gentleman to join me at the celebration who ended up not being able to make it. Throughout the weekend, I was blown away by the kindred friends who came to celebrate and the reality that God's abundant expression of love or my worthiness to receive it is not limited by what we can or cannot do for eachother.

I pray there are many godly men out there who will depend on the Holy Spirit to unconditionally and sacrificially love the woman in their lives. I pray that a florist knocks on my door oh so soon (I'm not picky about the day) to deliver a beautiful arrangement of hot pink roses by a romantic interest. I would have delight at this moment in the expression of love. I also know that if this gesture doesn't happen that by faith in Jesus' life and sacrifice my experience of the love of God will remain rich, creative and all encompassing.

Chili for chilly weather

Hi friends, it's that time of year when Mr. Winter visits with cold temperatures, making blankets, heaters and "warm comfort food" necessities. For those of you who are visiting Face to Face from those "ohh so cold" places, you may be thinking, "What do you know about cold weather living in Texas?" Point well taken. However, having gone through a number of days with the wind chill in the teens recently, I know enough that I am not made to live in consistently cold climates. It is a jolt to our southern, coastal city when freezing temps arrive. I myself am cold natured in an apt. with not a ton of insulation and high ceilings in the living room so I found myself in my robe with my blanket and fuzzy shoes. I felt quite cozy until I realized that I could not keep my nose from being cold. I decided to make a big pot of chili and wanted to share this tasty and quick recipe taken from Allrecipes.com.

INGREDIENTS: 1.5 lbs ground beef, 3 stalks celery (chopped), 1 green bell pepper (chopped), 1 onion (chopped), 1 tsp. crushed garlic, 1 (28 oz.) can stewed tomatoes, 1 (6 oz.) can tomato paste, 1 TBSP. white sugar, 1 cup cold water, 2 (15 oz.) cans kidney beans (undrained), 1 TBSP. chili powder, salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS: In a large pot over medium heat, cook beef until brown. Stir in celery, bell pepper, onion, garlic, tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, water, and beans. Season with chili powder, salt and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer 1 hour.

Enjoy a bowl full of warm comfort food.

The Gift of Gratitude

After Elizabeth gave birth to John, the day of circumcision arrived and the new parents' were asked about the name of the child, assuming it would be Zacharias after his father since this was tradition to name children after family members. Zacharias had been mute during Elizabeth's entire pregnancy because of his unbelief when the angel Gabriel pronounced the upcoming birth so Elizabeth was left to explain for both of them that the baby's name is John . Those in attendance were perplexed and looked to Zacharias to confirm. He wrote out the name on a tablet and all were astonished. At that moment, Zacharias regained his ability to speak. The first words out of his mouth were words of praise and thanksgiving. I bet he had a whole new appreciation for the fact that he could form sounds from his mouth~ no doubt he had many months of frustration in being unable to utter a word! Let's consider the words that come out of our mouths today. Think about good gifts that God has poured out in your life~ some may be by faith because they may not seem good in and of themselves but they are helping you know and experience His love on a deeper level. Offer to God today the gift of gratitude by acknowledging the good gifts He has given you.

The Gift of A Heart for Others

For now, we'll leave Mary in Nazareth to prepare for the birth of God's Son. Back in the hill country of Judah, Elizabeth's due date arrived and she gave birth to John. The Scripture says, "And her neighbors and her relatives heard that the Lord had displayed His great mercy toward her; and they were rejoicing with her." Elizabeth must have marveled at bearing a son in her seasoned age. As a friend of mine says, you know your a seasoned mother of a newborn when you are looking down at your baby through reading glasses. Yet, I feel sure that Elizabeth was filled with hope because of the words about John, that he would clear the way for the Savior and "turn back many of the sons of Israel to the Lord their God." I would guess she had many opportunities to plant seeds in peoples' hearts through her words about her son's destiny. Just as in Biblical times, God is all about using people to reach people. Sharing God’s love and forgiveness with others through our actions and words is a great privilege. Think of a family member, coworker or friend who does not know the Lord. Offer to God the gift of a heart for others by praying for the person to be drawn into a relationship with Christ during this time. After you write down their name, brainstorm a way you can show your care in a tangible way.

The Gift of Anticipation

As Mary left the comfort and safety of Elizabeth's house and traveled over the dusty roads back to Nazareth, there must have been a million and one thoughts running through her mind!. . . Ok, so. . . how to tell Joseph? my parents? They've always wanted grandchildren. I'm going to need bigger clothes. What will my friends think about giving me a baby shower before a wedding shower? Who will be there when I give birth and how much is that going to hurt?!?!. . .I've obviously taken some liberty in speculating what might have been on her mind. However, we do know for sure that Mary had many needs as she faced returning to her home town. I wish we had a record of her prayer journal to hear all the answers that God had already set in motion to provide for her. I love that God is so powerful and personal that He anticipates the needs of His children. Anticipating God’s voice and activity in our lives reflects a heart of expectancy. As you think about the areas you need guidance, tell Him your anticipation of Him coming through for you with wisdom and in circumstances.

The Gift of Reflection

Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about 3 months. I would guess that during that time there was a lot of talk about what the angel had declared to both of them concerning their sons. I bet they rehearsed the circumstances and what they might mean for their lives and for the nation of Israel many times. Not to mention sharing in the changes that go along with preparing to have a baby. I can only imagine how much strength they drew from eachother in the midst of both experiencing unusual pregnancies! It does our heart good to reflect on what God has promised. Here's the hard part since tis the season for much to do's and festivities. Carve out a bit of time, preferably in a place outside of your home, to reflect on Luke 1:26-38. Ask God to open your eyes to fresh perspective of the coming of our Savior. If possible bring a journal and write down what comes to mind as you reflect.

The Gift of Praise

Mary said, "With all my heart I praise the Lord, and I am glad because of God my Savior." Luke 1:46-47

As we listen in on the conversation between Mary and Elizabeth, we hear Mary open her mouth to praise the Lord for the privilege of being part of His promise of redemption that He gave to Abraham (1:55). Praise is a good gift to our heart and the Lord’s when we acknowledge Him for who He is. As we prepare our hearts during this advent season to celebrate the birth of the Lord Jesus, offer to God the gift of praise by using the letters in the word “advent” to think of words to describe Him. For instance, the letter “A” might prompt me to praise God for being Almighty. Try to find a time where you can do so aloud~ in your car, the shower. . .if you're in an office with other believers, you may want to rally them to praise with you.

The Gift of Surrender

Mary was in the midst of preparing to be married when God invaded her world with the news of her role in bearing the Messiah. This can put a serious kink in wedding plans- how to tell her fiance that she was having God's Son and then what to do with the evidence in her belly at the wedding ceremony (not very PC- there were severe penalties for adultery in the OT)? Would her friends and family support her? Mary laid down her agenda to be involved in God's plan for the generations. She surrendered when she would begin a family, where she would live, how people would perceive her and much of her understanding of how life would turn out. As we go about the Christmas season, there is a tendency to reflect on what has been, question the now or project how our lives might turn out. We may choose different timing, circumstances or interactions for our past, present or future. Will you lay down your expectations of how life ought to be for involvement in God's plans which leave a legacy for the generations? Open your hands to the Lord and offer to Him the gift of surrendering your understanding and asking His plans to replace Your own.