Meaning of instantly:  Immediately, present or quick

I have been hounded by the same verses for over two years.  These verses appear in the strangest places.  In stores on napkins and just recently I instantly stopped in front of a framed photo of these verses hanging on the wall of a house that was being sold.  These are the verses: 

Hear, O Israel:  The Lord our God is one Lord:

And you shall love the Lord Thy God with all thy heart, with all the soul, and with all thy might.  These verses are from Deuteronomy 6:4-5.  They are part of the verses that are repeated three times a day if you are an Israelite.   

As we have seen in our Word Study the announcement of the birth of Jesus came instantly to the shepherds, wise men, and to two elderly people in the Temple. 

One was named Simeon.  He had been looking for the coming Christ for many years. And on that day the Baby Jesus was dedicated in the Temple.  Simeon was in the Temple.  He took Jesus in his arms and gave thanks for the coming Savior.  As he was speaking an old prophetess that had been living in the Temple instantly came to them with loud cries of praise to God for His gift of the child.  

Her name was Anna.  Which means grace.  She had been married only seven years when her husband died.  She chose to worship and serve in the Temple by praying and fasting all her years.  Some say she was 84, but some say she was older.  As a Jew, she would have prayed three times a day that she would love God with all her heart, soul, and might.  She probably said those verses over 50,000 times in her life.  She too was looking for the coming Savior.  And she instantly recognized Jesus as that long-awaited Savior. 

Her loud cries of praise would have attracted quite a crowd.  From that day on she told all that were waiting for the Savior that indeed He had arrived. 

What an outburst of love and praise from one so old.  One who had chosen a life of prayer and fasting.  A life of loving Him with all her heart, soul, mind, and strength. Have we recognized the enormous importance of knowing Jesus?  Here was that Holy Presence back in the Temple.  

Do we welcome Him into the temple of our heart?  We are His temple today.  Invite Him in. Receive Him with that joy and love shown to Him that day by Simeon and Anna.  They loved Him with unconditional love.  And it is my prayer that I will love Him with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength.  He reminds me of these verses in so many ways.  I can only give thanks that He loves me so much. 

Luke 2:38. And she is coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord.

Written by Joann Turnbull 

Photography by Lori Garner 

Sinners Prayer 

Inspiring Music by (youtube)

God With Us (Live)

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God^[a]; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

Prepare is used 226 times in the Bible. 

The definition is to make ready for something expected or thought possible.   

How prepared are we to begin a new year?  Some would say I have enough food to last me a year. Or another might say I am scared of the things that might happen.  

I remember Jesus telling His disciples that in this world you will have troubles, but I have overcome the world. (John 16:33) (A good place to start)!!!

As I look back 2000 years ago.  Six months before the birth of Jesus a baby was born.  His name was John.  His assignment in life was to prepare the way for Jesus.  And he did a great job.  He preached to the people to get right with God.  And many did. 

When we look at this new year, are we prepared?  Does our heart tremble as we think about the future?  Or do we stand firm on the thought that the One we love and trust will be by our side every day? 

The King is coming!  In days gone by when a king was coming through a town.  The people would prepare the way/road.  They would remove all the stones from the road, they would fill in all the holes, and clean the sides of the road.  On the day of the king’s arrival, they would line the road in their best clothes and bow and honor the king.

Today we can say, The KING is coming!!  

As we walk our journey with Him, do we need to prepare the way?  Do we have stones of bitterness, hatred, or have we wandered off the way?  Are there holes in the way from our lack of being filled with Him?  He will help us remove the stones and fill the holes with Himself.  So we will be ready for this new year. 

I look ahead to each new day with excitement.  To be loved by Him and to love Him with ALL my heart, soul, and mind!!!  

But as it is written, Eye has not seen, or ear heard, neither has it entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for them that love Him. 1 Corinthians 2:9

Written by Joann Turnbull 

Photography by Lori Garner 

Sinners Prayer 

Inspiring Music by (youtube

Prepare the Way - Bethel Music, Bethany Wohrle, Dante Bowe

"God never said that the journey would be easy, but He did say that the arrival would be worthwhile." "God will meet you where you are to take you where He wants you to go." 

Meaning of journey: an inner journey is a journey of self-exploration with the ultimate goal or consequence of knowing oneself better or improving oneself. Imaginative. The inner journey is a passionate inquiry into our soul and personal field of experience. 

The word journey is in the Bible 8 times, 6 in the Old Testament, and 2 in the New Testament.

When I think of the word journey, what is the reason for the journey? What is the final destination? What are the dates? And what do I need to take with me so I am comfortable? 

But as I traveled with this word tucked nicely in my suitcase of life... I realized the pilot had plotted to change my flight plan. The destination and the dates will remain the same... But He said He wanted to give me the most memorable time. One that would blow my mind and defy my imagination... He shared with me that it was a trip of a lifetime... 

I must admit I was not looking to meet Him or go on this journey? I ask myself many times, why me ?? I remember that day like it was yesterday. I was on a lonely road in Triune, Tennessee, when I felt a LOVE that I could not describe. And I had no idea where it came from. And I will add that I truly was unprepared for what was about to unfold. 

I did not know this pilot that came so swiftly into my life. He was a well-groomed handsome man with chestnut color hair, blue eyes, and the most amazing smile.  When I looked around for others, to my surprise, it seemed that I was the only traveler ready for this trip. He smiled and gently placed a ticket in my hand. And said are you ready? 

The moment the ticket touched my hand, I felt a rush of love that I could not explain... It made my knees buckle, and I felt light-headed and amazingly wonderful. I could not wait to share my experience with everyone I knew... But then, He grabbed my hand and said don’t be afraid to follow me... And away we went... We made many stops, and I met some truly amazing people as He guided me at every turn.  

He taught me many things about love, life, who He truly is, and what He wants me to be when I grow up... He has this amazing charisma and winning charm. And as days passed to months, then to years.  Much to my surprise. I found that I just wanted to talk to Him all the time.. His wisdom, His compassion, and His Grace are beautiful things to feel.. Each day, I trusted Him more and more ... I am not sure the exact moment it happened, but somewhere in time, I gave Him my heart as He gently spoke words of love to my soul... I felt love beyond my understanding.  It’s like no other love on earth. But I felt a spiritual connection that ran deeper than this life.  It’s a love that leaves you at a loss for words... It gives you a  burning desire to introduce Him to everyone you know...

It was such an exciting time. However,  He wanted me to slow down my pace so we could make the most of each moment. He handed me a book that seemed old and worn but beautifully bound.. and He said.." I wrote these words for you ... read them, study them, and hide them in your heart... They hold the keys to life.. they are your road map and many clues to your final destination.." Many call it the Bible... I call it a gift to humanity. 

Like any normal child, I was excited about this trip and asked how long it would take to get there ?? He said it takes a lifetime... I then blurted "What is the place called? " He said, Heaven. I then asked, "How long will I be there ?" He said eternity..

I asked who will be there? He said all of your friends and family are invited !!  I asked what about you? Will you be there? He smiled ... and said, “Of course I live there with my Father, and my good friend the Holy Spirit. 

I said it sounds amazing! I again eagerly said, “When will we get there? “ He said don’t be in a rush... You are not finished with your journey. There are many chapters still that need to be written ...  I will continue to hold your hand, I will guide you .. and above all else, I will LOVE you... We hugged. He smiled and said now go. Grow this gift of love and prepare to write your life's best chapters. 

I can only say since we met six years ago, I have been on the most amazing spiritual journey of my life... I am so happy that I found Him.. But, I  truly must admit He found me.

It was Him, It is Him, it will always be Him

 They have told the church about your love. Please send them on their way in a manner that honors God. 3 John 1:

 For I know my plans for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11 

Photography & Written by Lori Garner 

Bible Verses from KJV, ESV / Sinner's Prayer

Inspiring music from YouTube

The Journey - Lea Salonga (with lyrics)

“At the center of the Universe is a loving heart that continues to beat and that wants the best for every person.” – Fred Rogers

The meaning of center is the point from which an activity or process is directed or on which it is focused.

We located the word center in the Bible 51 times…

This word could have taken me down many avenues …

The center, the core, the heart? When we are centered, we are in balance, and our strength is at its peak...

As I unwrapped this word, it landed firmly in my heart, and my mind had no choice but to follow… ...  I yearned to discover more about this word center.

Are we centered? What is our center? Our core? 

I then questioned is our heart our center? Is our soul our center? Can one live without the other? Is our heart only pumping to keep our bodies alive? The question then becomes, do we have a spiritual heart and mind? Or do these organs only exist when we are physically active?  Does our spiritual and human essence coexist, or do invisible threads hold them together? 

So many questions? If our hearts stop beating with time. Why is God after our hearts? Our physical nature has a shelf life… So, is it safe to say our soul carries our spiritual heart and mind? These physical and spiritual elements make up the center of who we are… 

When God is after our hearts…! He is after the complete package… the center is where all of the elements God gave us come together.

I then ask you, when you surrender, do you give Him all? 

Mind, body, and soul, physical and spiritual? 

Is He the center of all living things, great and small? Does our spiritual persona yearn to coexist with Him in the center of His great love for eternity?? 

I will be so bold and say yes!!  

Our spirit is drawn to Him. This is the pull we feel to belong to something or someone greater. This desire has been embedded in our molecular makeup at conception. He placed that homing gene in our DNA. He yearns for our return.

It’s Him! It’s always Him !!! 

When will we realize He is the center of our world… both our physical and spiritual… 

One day, we will willingly surrender all… The center of His love is beyond my human understanding… but in the very core of my existence… my soul hears and feels His sweet voice … 

I love Him for the gift of Him. There is nothing in the universe that can compare!!  

In the same way, you and I can put Christ at the center of our lives and become one with Him as He is one with the Father (see John 17:20–23).

Photography & Written by Lori Garner

Sinners Prayer 

Inspiring Music by (youtube)

Vineyard Worship ft. Michael Frye & Kathryn Scott - Be The Centre [Official Lyric Video]

"And the angel said to them, 'Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.' Luke 2:10.

What is the meaning of the word prophecy? A prophecy is a message inspired by God, a divine revelation. 

The word prophet appears in approximately 65 verses in the Bible. 

I say WOW.... again WOW... I see so many messages with claims that God told them to share these thoughts and nuggets of information with the masses. There are so many ?? There are many claims so hold on to your hat because the storm and horrific things are on the horizon. OMG! 

The thought of discovering which one if any is truly a message from God can be mind-boggling... And can make many physically worried and or sick! 

When I googled the word prophecy my feed hit overload.. My eyes widened, my breathing became labored.. and the thoughts of what is to come sent my mind in overload... yikes 😳

The times ahead can be a scary thought. 

However, my relationship with God gives me peace in my soul that He is in control. He has revealed to me a LOVE for His children that is beyond our own human understanding. Is that a prophecy? If I look at the meaning of the word prophecy then that is indeed a prophetic statement. 

I would rather stand on the prophetic words “God's LOVE” than any other message. I have chosen to look ahead through the spiritual eyes God has given us. I chose to look to Him and only Him... 

I do believe He speaks through a chosen few.. not the masses. But He is accessible to anyone who listens and spends time with Him. Anyone that will open their heart and soul and let Him in. I do believe that messages from God are messages that will not make us run around like Chicken Little saying the “Sky is falling”. 

I do believe. We must not make light of any message heard... But !  we must investigate, we must sift all messengers, and their words through God’s heart and test it against God's word. 

I feel many study the word and then twist it to make themselves feel important in the eyes of man. Many use scare tactics to bring attention to themselves, under the premise of "God Said". I do believe we must arm ourselves with God! His Love and His word so we can see through false words with our own spiritual eyes... 

And if things in our future look scary stick close to Him... He is our protection. He is our future. He is our light source. He is our First Love, He is our All. Don’t wait for an intermediary to tell you what may come .. God will tell us what He wants us to know.. in His timing... He knows if He reveals too much many will carry unnecessary anxiety and fear... 

He is the God of Peace. He is the God of Love. And when we trust Him for our soul's future, we can lay our heads down at night knowing He’s Got This !!! Today, Tomorrow, and Forevermore!  Stand back and watch Him !!! 

He WOWs me!!! 

It’s Him, It’s always Him! 🥰

Tune in and listen with Soulful ears, watch with soulful eyes. Love and Trust Him with all your soul, all your heart, and all your might! 

“When people speak messages on God's behalf, do not refuse to listen. Instead, think carefully about everything, to see if it is true. Remember to obey anything that is good. But keep away from any kind of bad thing.”1 Thessalonians 5:20-22 EASY

“But when someone prophesies, he speaks to encourage people, to build them up, and to bring them comfort.” 1 Corinthians 14:3 TPT

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal 2 Corinthians 4:17-18

Photography, Design & Written by Lori Garner  

Bible Verses From KJV  / Sinner's Prayer

Music from Youtube 

No Fear (Lyrics) - Kari Jobe

People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within. Elisabeth Kubler – Ross 

The meaning of stained glass: it’s glass that has been colored and cut into various shapes to form pictures or patterns, used primarily in church windows.

Stained glass is such a beautiful work of intricate artistry. Is it a lost art??   Stained glass has been used for thousands of years, beginning with the Ancient Romans and Egyptians. 

I am drawn to the stories that these beautiful works of art hold…As I stood and gazed upon the colors, the story of my Savior became alive. The colors danced as the prisms of fractured light kissed each piece of broken glass. 

And I thought each of His children, we are much like the fractured pieces of glass, different shapes, colors, and sizes… When we look at each piece separately, there is not much to see… We can hold it up to the light, witness the color, and perhaps catch a small amount of beauty. But when our Savior brings all the broken pieces together … it is indeed a sight to behold… one can stand back and witness His story coming to life… The colors shine with a beautiful heavenly glow. Each intricate piece is just as important as the next… 

Are we all just a piece of fractured glass?  Is the lead that holds the pieces together our faith in our Savior? 

Did you know that the light that passes through stained glass windows is often seen as a symbol of the divine light of God? 

Yes, it’s His light that brings fractured souls into unity. It is a masterful plan born from our Creator's hands.  I love how art and everything I see in this wondrous world point me to Him!!  

I am but a fractured piece of glass waiting to find my place in His beautiful work of art …

And I will never look at another stained-glass window without seeing Him!  Yes, it will always be Him!  

Art & Written by Lori Garner

Sinners Prayer

Bible collaboration - Joann Turnbull

Inspiring Music by (YouTube)

Cochren & Co - Stained Glass Window (Lyrics)

 

 'To have another language is to possess a second soul.' - Charlemagne

Aramaic meaning: Aramaic. / (ˌærəˈmeɪɪk) / noun. It is an ancient language of the Middle East, still spoken in parts of Syria and Lebanon.

Do you know that just over 700 different Aramaic words in the biblical text occur just over 7,000 total times? Aramaic is the oldest continuously written and spoken language of the Middle East, preceding Hebrew and Arabic as written languages. Equally important has been the role of Aramaic as the oldest continuously used alphabetically written language of the world.

When we embark on this spiritual quest to know more about the child, the man, the Messiah, many of us only skim the surface. There is so much to discover …  I am afraid there will not be enough time on earth to know Him so intimately… But we are told to have an intimate relationship with Yeshua, our Savior…  

In attempting to grow closer to Him, my travels brought me to this eloquent language that pressed through His lips… and rolled off His tongue as  He delivered His message of love…

And then I found the Lord’s Prayer in Aramaic set to music… my soul seemed to gravitate to the soothing sounds even without knowing what the words meant. 

 Finding out that  Jesus principally spoke a Galilean dialect of Aramaic even intrigued me more…Many of us think  He spoke Hebrew… 

A thought we should consider: Perhaps He was multi-lingual…Have you ever wondered what language will be spoken in Heaven?

When we speak several languages, I believe there will always be that one that is our most vital, and we feel the most comfortable using … especially under pressure…  

And then I landed here Matthew 27:46

Aramaic phrases “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachtani”—“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” 

I do not speak this language..will there be a learning curve? How does He understand the language I speak??? I can only try to understand within my limited “human” knowledge… 

We must speak to Him with our soul…our mind thinks in our home language, our heart cries out, and the Holy Spirit intercedes our thoughts and translates the communications. 

Romans 8:18-27

He can speak to me in any language because I feel Him with my soul… Thank you, Holy Spirit… You are my soulful connection to my Creator… 

It’s Him; it’s always Him!!! 

Photography & Written by Lori Garner

Sinners Prayer

Bible collaboration - Joann Turnbull

Inspiring Music by (YouTube)

The Lord's Prayer in Aramaic | Jim Caviezel | Must Hear