Quiet Moments With God -- A New Creation

My heart is full. I spent several hours continuing my interviews with Bonnie Preschern, a native woman who grew up in Alaska. I am working on her memoir, an amazing story of survival and redemption. She lived a life few have ever known. She has every reason to be bitter . . . but she's not. She is a light that casts a glow of forgiveness and wonder on the greatness of God.

I don't want to give away her story because I want you to read the book so I won't say more about that, except that Bonnie is a walking miracle and is now a living, breathing example of what it means to be a disciple of Christ.

When she speaks I listen. I see the love of God in her eyes and hear it in her voice and see it in her actions. When she speaks of Him and of how blessed she is her eyes flood with tears and so do mine.

When we place our faith in Christ we are a new creation. I've witnessed it in others who are close to me and in me the day I received the love and forgiveness offered by my Lord. And once more God is reminding me of His grace and love and His power through a wounded woman who loves Him with her whole heart.

We have so much to be thankful for. Are we a light to the world? Do we demonstrate the transformation of the new creation--us?

God has given much. Don't forget to thank Him. And to tell others of His goodness.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie

Tips for triumphant living--Shine!

Recently I was chatting with a friend and she made a simple statement, “Just be thankful.” Her words struck me in a powerful way, I think because of the way she said them. She made the statement very matter-of-factly, as if she'd never even consider being anything but thankful.

This woman’s life has not been easy; like most of us she’s experienced hardship. She lost a daughter at an early age and her husband went home to be with the Lord a few years ago. And she’s faced serious health issues. Yet, I do not see or hear any sign of resentment. It’s as if she really believes God is in control. And life is good because she trusts Him.

Being thankful is part of who she is. She chooses to focus on the positive things in life rather than the disappointments. God must smile when He looks upon her. Her rich relationship with Him is good for all of us. Her kindness and serenity rubs off on the people close to her, including me. She’s like a light in the darkness. And isn’t that what God asked us to be, a light?

May we all shine brighter.

Grace and peace to you from God,

Bonnie