WHAT WILL STAY

WHAT WILL STAY

Sweep away fear. Faith will stay behind.

~Marie T. Morrison

STOPPING BY

STOPPING BY

While darkness feasts on the strength of the Spirit, the silence stops by to leave tokens of forgiveness and grace .

~Marie T. Morrison~

AN AURA IN THE MIDST

Looking through the midst in the valley set before us is an aura of God’s kind presence, illuminating our way to conquer our fears and anxieties, assuring us that everything will be alright.

~Marie T. Morrison~

HARMONY OF GOODNESS

God molds each of us with unique gifts and talents. When they are shared, many creatures are blessed. A harmony of blessings embodies a community, one filled with tranquility, peace and love.

~Marie T. Morrison~

 

TURN IT OVER

If there is a worry, turn it over to God in prayer. The heart and soul will be enriched.

~Marie T. Morrison

 

 

 

CRAYONS

A fragrant path to hope will elicit memories of special days, grandparents and crayons. The bouquet of cherished thoughts gives a light to our lives.
~Marie T. Morrison

UNFOLD IT

Unfold the wrapping holding worries. Watch them lift off the page, float into the air, and become unreachable. Apprehension will drift away, God taking over the burdens.

~Marie T. Morrison

GOING HOME WITH AN ANGEL

The losing of a loved one is heart wrenching. Times together can now only be memories. A sense of aloneness is felt as the individual passes away, warm hands no longer able to embrace one another. At that moment of death, another hand comes to touch the one of the deceased, that of an angel. How majestic those wings are, beyond all words. Art does not portray how enormous they are, how soft those feathers feel, nor how gentle they look though their magnificent size.

As the angel takes the hand of this precious human, words are calmly whispered, "I have come to take you home." The travel to God's Kingdom begins, a beautiful flight. Not letting go of the hand of our endearing one, a journey is taken, viewing all the memorable times of the life that was led. Laughter is shared and some tears are shed as various times of life are viewed. There is the building of a treehouse with a childhood friend, the holiday traditions passed on from Grandma and Grandpa, the time of getting the highest score on the difficult test in school. Seen are the graduation gowns, the marriage ceremony, the birth of the children and their yearly celebrations, glimpses of a life experiencing compassion, grace, love, sorrow and wisdom. What treasured years they were!

Continuing up into the extraordinary blue sky, a glow appears. A sensation of a whole new love is moving through the soul. Peace replaces pain, endurance replaces weakness, joy replaces grief, calmness replaces anxiety. Squeezing the angel's hand as the brilliance opens Heaven's doors, it is time to let go. Wings appear on this child of God, ready to fly freely in the land of God's glory. Looking down at those left behind below, a few feathers are plucked to float down, silently landing in the most unusual of places. When found, it will be known a special angel in Heaven sent them, delivering a magnific message of love.

Marie T. Morrison

INTERWEAVE

God brings us hope, to interweave into our hearts.

~Marie T. Morrison

THE MEADOW

Discover the awe of what your personal meadow holds.

~Marie T. Morrison~

 

THE STREAM

A stream steadily flows, the crystal clear waters washing away anything in its path. It is a good example of life, how we need to be moving on, no matter the obstacles. May the mind remain as clear as the crystal waters, not ever letting the past obstruct us from the currents ahead.

~Marie T. Morrison~

SUSTAINMENT

With God in our lives, there is everlasting bread to sustain us.

~Marie T. Morrison~

 

A BLISSFUL FEAST

Feast in the golden bliss of God’s delicate touches as we feel, see, hear, taste and take in the fragrances only our Lord can provide.

~Marie T. Morrison~

A DARK REJUVENATION

A DARK REJUVENATION

The dark, being very quiet, peaceful and still, rejuvenates the soul.

~Marie T. Morrison~

 

A GREAT NEED

The greatest need in life is God. He keeps the body and soul together, awakens the senses, revives the spirit, gives wisdom to our choices, forgives misdeeds, arouses our faith, encourages hope and provides unconditional love.

~Marie T. Morrison~

HIS GRACES

Drink in the complacent breath of God, absorbing His graces forever.

~Marie T. Morrison~

 

TAKING A CHANCE

Taking chances will add depth to the spirit. It expresses faith in God, how He is buried deep within the soul  believing in us, as we believe in Him.

~Marie T. Morrison~

A BEAUTIFUL SHORE

A  journey along God’s shore will have the hurt feelings, raw emotions and wrong doings wash out to the vast sea. An unblemished mind is left behind, refreshed. The spirit gathers up strength once again, to live in God’s beauty.

~Marie T. Morrison~

NURTURE THE CALMNESS

Nurture the paradise within your soul. It will foster a blessed harvest of peace, tranquility, serenity and wisdom, leaving a sense of calmness throughout all the seasons of life.

~Marie T. Morrison~

A GLOW

      

Grasp the glow of the Holy Spirit. Let it light up your life, today and always.

~Marie T. Morrison~

PASSION

Live your passion in the way God shows his passion for you.

~Marie T. Morrison~

THE FLOOD

THE FLOOD

 Our day can have a discouraging moment or two. It is during those times that the mind, spirit, heart and soul are flooded with God’s love, empathy, gentleness and grace.

 ~Marie T. Morrison~

A SPIRITUAL STRENGTH

God gives us the daily challenge so in return, he can hear the words “Yes I can,” not ever forgetting He is giving us the spiritual strength to carry on.

~Marie T. Morrison~

 

EXHILARATION

EXHILARATION

The elderly have it right, slowing down in life. If we all slowed down, our senses would be exhilarated, taking in God’s given beauty.

~Marie T. Morrison~

GRACE

No matter the labyrinth of troubles, God is here, guiding us through the mazes. His mighty Spirit can hold our exhausting burden, lightening the load. Amongst the storm, no matter the turbulence, God’s grace will clutch our hands until it is calm once again.

~Marie T. Morrison

REACH FOR THE SKY

Obstacles are there to be conquered. Seen are new pathways, doors waiting to open. A journey begins, one where wisdom, courage, understanding, enlightenment, patience and passion for life soak into the soul. The spirit is strong, fearless, eager to encounter the world.

~Marie T. Morrison~

A PRECIOUS BLESSING

A gift from God may be as natural as extending a warm hand to say hello. Sharing this precious blessing among many will spread love, mercy, peace and hope .

~Marie T. Morrison~

A NEW PLEASURE

As routines become habits, the beauty of life falls away from the conscience. Changing one element in a familiar day can let fresh breath enter the soul and sparkling light come to the eyes. Exhilaration will surround the spirit.

~Marie T. Morrison~

GENERATIONS OF TOUCH

 Rituals and traditions let those who have passed stay with us. There is the favorite birthday cake recipe, the traditional holiday dance and the celebratory song. A guitar played holds the hands of wisdom from generations gone by.  Heirlooms are everywhere, touched by love and happiness. Memories told will keep the loved ones living long after we are gone, as the same birthday cake continues to be made, the ingredients still holding plenty of love, laughter and song.

~Marie T. Morrison~

GRACE

God’s grace is with you today.

~Marie T. Morrison

TINY SIPS

Top of Form

A cup of tea lets life forget the chaos. Taking tiny sips, the surrounding silence is speaking tranquil words to the soul. The spirit is calm, full of God’s blessings.

~Marie T. Morrison~

A CHANGE IN THE ROUTINE

Change is not what we expect in our routine lives. God is now ready for us to take in a new breath, filling it with new wisdom and spirituality. Embracing the Holy Spirit, there will be a passionate love for God and a deep emotion for the faith only now uncovered because of new discoveries. Feeling invigorated, let it be understood how God is always there to give courage  as transformations are made during all of our journeys.

~Marie T. Morrison~

THE VISIT

Scripture says to us,

“You sweep mortals away,

lasting no longer

than a dream.

They fade like grass that is

renewed in the morning”(Ps 90:5)

When a loved one passes away,

we lose part of our own hearts

and souls. At times, it is hard

to keep going, though we know

God wants us to.. Waking up

to an emptiness does not make

the daily life easy to accept.

Seeking comfort from God

will nourish us. He is there,

showing us that though

our beloved is no longer

in our tangible presence,

there are the sprouts of grass

cropping up where we least expect it,

a gentle breeze felt as we are

out and about,

that resplendent flower seen

leaving us in awe

or a sudden calmness

replacing our anxiety.

Yes, our loved one

has been swept away,

but has come back to us,

visiting for all eternity.

~Marie T. Morrison~

A STORY

Ready to copy my favorite dessert recipe down for a friend, I searched for my bright pink card I had placed on the coffee table. Glancing on the floor, I saw a shred of paper in just that color. The dog had eaten all but a few words, nothing to help me recall the preparations. He got the last taste, I have the memories. As my neighbor taught me in her great wisdom, “Now I have a story to tell.”

~Marie T. Morrison~

THE PRAYER OF SAFETY

While thinking about a youth from the past, I was surprised to see him within moments of my thoughts as I was out and about. Many a year, I had prayed for this young man’s safety. The grin on his face told me how God and the angels were watching over him. In gratitude, I continue my prayers of thanks for saving this precious life.

~Marie T. Morrison~

SPECIAL GIFTS OF KINDNESS

Holding on to something special, I saw it removed from my hands, given to someone else. Others not knowing my emptiness filled the void in no time, approaching me with excitement, one with a beautiful, spiritual gift, another with an unexpected gift of praise. It made me see how kindness overrides unkindness, that the Holy Spirit is ever-present to bring us joy.  

~Marie T. Morrison~

THE COLOR OF HEAVEN

While visiting with a bright-eyed child, she said she pictured Heaven as being completely white. We smiled, imagining pools, rolling hills and rivers being the color symbolizing purity, innocence and the light of God.

~Marie T. Morrison~

OUT FOR A DIVE

Dive into the good memories. Travel around with them. Swim by the different ages of your life.  Resurface to the sunshine, giving a prayer of gratitude for those precious times.

~Marie T. Morrison~

PASSING BYSilently bless all those you pass by today. It will move the spirituality within., even for those who do not believe!
~Marie T. Morrison~

ONE

We are one, working as one, to reflect as one, to see what we can do to aid one another, always the Holy Spirit working within us, giving us the glow to keep moving and the fire to never let us give up.

~Marie T. Morrison

ONCE MORE

Waves take out to sea the darkness in our lives. Ocean waters deliver to shore a fresh spirituality. Life begins anew.

~Marie T. Morrison~

SURROUNDING THE SOUL

All are born with a gentle soul. Surrounding it, from choices made, is what creates our spirit.
~Marie T. Morrison~

TOUCHING THE HEART

In prayer, reach out to touch the heart of our Lord. Feel His emotional warmth for you. It is filled with gentle love, care, mercy, forgiveness, grace, wisdom, strength, glory and praise!
~Marie T. Morrison~

BLOSSOMS

Plant the seed of a blessed memory in the mind. Taking root, it will blossom often. A sense of peace will be among the blooms.
~Marie T. Morrison~

A SECOND CHANCE

Our Lord gave his life so we may begin a new life, to be re-baptized, free from sin. Now we choose new paths to journey. Foster care and patience for others. Say a silent prayer to God rather than have an outburst of anger. Renew old friendships. Forgive and inhale a breath of fresh air. Cherish life itself, living in God’s love, mercy and grace!
~Marie T. Morrison~

JOINING TOGETHER

Delivering a tough message in a kind way will leave a positive reaction upon the recipient. Peace and compassion are recognized and a sense of gratitude is noted. All parties walk away feeling calm, God’s grace joining everyone together.
~Marie T. Morrison

THE ROOTS OF FAITH

Each of us is rooted in God. How connected the roots are can differ. Some have short roots, not very strong in believing His wonders. Those surface roots get caught in a gust of wind, blowing away, before faith can be embedded. Deeper down, the roots grow thicker each year, as does the belief in God and all He can do for mankind. Faith takes hold, breaking ground, becoming flowers that re-seed themselves year after year, something new in the faith always to be experienced. It grows enough to soon become as big and strong as the trees reaching toward the heavens, where it is expressed in faith how much God has done for all in nature and mankind. Those roots of faith remain constant. It may appear dormant at times, but underneath, those roots remain active, always alive, preparing to bring forth a new love for the faith as time moves on.
~Marie T. Morrison~

RAISE THE SPIRITS

Taking time for the self, doing what is special, is spiritually invigorating!
~Marie T. Morrison~

THE SENSES OF FAITH

We cannot see faith,
nor taste it.
We cannot touch faith
nor is it something we can smell
or hear.

I do see the man living his faith,
Saying things will be okay,
God gave him a beautiful family,
That prayers give them hope.
To overcome present obstacles.

As farmers invite neighbors
To enjoy plentiful food
From the crops of the land,
A taste of faith is experienced,
With prayers to God whispered,
For the land He gave them to be toiled.

A newborn child,
Cuddled in the warmth of its parents,
It’s new skin so soft and smooth,
Is touching faith,
A mother and father,
Devoting themselves to God & prayer,
Knowing they are bringing a new soul into the world.

Faith has no set fragrance, yet it surrounds us.
As we sit in fields looking out in gratitude at God’s glory,
There it is in the whiff of pine needles, a wild rose,
A child’s breath ,in the rich soil at our feet and in the salty ocean waves.

Praying to God, my best friend, I hear him talk to me.
That is faith. I hear faith in God’s creatures,
The birds singing their morning tunes, the chipmunks chatting for the nut.
I hear faith speaking in the rippling stream, the flowing waterfall and at sea.

We only need to open the senses to know faith is awaiting,
God will be there with us, to experience every wonderful sensation
In this beautiful world of His!
~M.T. Morrison~

THE SENSES OF FAITH

We cannot see faith,
nor taste it.
We cannot touch faith
nor is it something we can smell or hear
.
I do see the man living his faith,
Saying things will be okay,
God gave him a beautiful family,
That prayers give them hope.
To overcome present obstacles.

As farmers invites others
enjoy food aplenty ‘
From the crops of the land,
A taste of faith is in the fine food,
For prayers to God were said,
The land He gave them will be toiled.

A newborn child,
Cuddled in the warmth of its parents,
It’s new skin so soft and smooth,
Is the result of faith from
A mother and father,
Devoting themselves to God & prayer,
Knowing they are bringing a new soul into the world.

Faith has no set fragrance, yet it surrounds us.
As we sit in fields looking out in gratitude at God’s glory,
There it is in the whiff of pine needles, a wild rose,
A child’s breath ,in the rich soil at our feet and in the salty ocean waves.

Praying to God, my best friend, I hear him talk to me.
That is faith. I hear faith in God’s creatures,
The birds singing their morning tunes, the chipmunks chatting for the nut.
I hear faith speaking in the rippling stream, the flowing waterfall and at sea.

We only need to open the senses to know faith is awaiting,
God will be there with us, to experience every wonderful sensation
In this beautiful world of His!
~M.T. Morrison~

OPEN THE DOOR

Open the door, welcoming in God’s grace, bringing peace. The soul will feel calm, no matter the stormy winds of the outside world.
~Marie T. Morrison~

PARTAKING IN OUR WEAKNESSES

Nourishing our weaknesses will make us stronger. God will empower us by way of the Holy Spirit, giving us the hope we need to overcome any fears.
~Marie T. Morrison~

THE GOOD THINGS

Not engaging in what I love to do for a day gives me a new appreciation for God and the good things He has given me.
~Marie T. Morrison~

NOT ANOTHER DAY

Pause to think about yesterday. It is not ‘just another day.’ God made it notable. A prayer of gratitude for the smallest of gifts will leave a special memory of those moments.
~Marie T. Morrison

PRACTICE WILL MAKE IT DEEP

One way to want more prayer in your life is to pray for it. As with everything in life, it does take practice. The more devotion, the easier it will become. Take time for silence during prayer, as God will want to respond. Listen in sincerity. Your faith will deepen, as will your love for God.
~Marie T. Morrison

A FUTURE MANNERISM

Within us is the genetic history of loved ones living hundreds of years ago. Visualizing our ancestors having the same laugh we do, the same gait in our walk, even the same mannerisms in prayer, leads to hope for the future, our core actions implanted deep within our blood.
~Marie T. Morrison

GRASPING THROUGH THE RIPPLES

Your soul holds a special depth of emotion, only God and you feeling the warmth and tenderness. No one can ever disturb it. Grasp its loving peace, even as your heart and mind ripple through waves of sentiments in the waking hours.
~Marie T. Morrison~

PASSIONATE GRATITUDE

God grants individual gifts, leaving each of us fully blessed. Our faith deepens as we use the gifts, fulfilling the passions He desires us to pursue. In gratitude, we silently say our prayer of thanks.
~Marie T. Morrison

HOLD THE LIGHT

Doing goodness for another can bring out an unexpected joy, relieving one out of the depths of sadness. It is God’s Will at work, having others bring a calm voice, a warm hug or a cheerful hello to someone in despair. The actions and words will hold the light out of the darkness for a long time.
~Marie T. Morrison~

NOURISHMENT

God nourishes you daily with strength and wisdom,always knowing your needs.
~Marie T. Morrison~

WHAT GOD SEES

As God looks upon you, what He sees is His loving, kind Spirit living within your soul.
~Marie T. Morrison~

TENDING TO A STRANGER

Off to visit a hospital patient, I saw that my coveted handicapped parking place, along the curb and close to the hospital’s front door, was already occupied. This meant I had to park among the mass of vehicles in the large lot, joining the unfortunate, making what looks like an eternal trip to reach the front door. From my manual wheelchair, it is especially challenging, as it is an uphill jaunt to get to the building. Getting out of my car, ready to pull out my chair, I noticed an elderly man to the left of me, oxygen tank in tow, leave his car to make the toiled walk. Beyond him, I noticed that a car was pulling away from ‘my’ curbside space! What luck! I was smiling, calling out accolades to myself that I got my spot after all! I popped back into the car, backed out of my parking place and proceeded forward, hoping no one would get the spot before I did my u-turn to grab the empty site. I cheered as I pulled into one of only two reserved places, my energy now reserved for the hospital’s uphill entryway and hallway, once I got into the building itself.

My door opened, barely out of the car, I saw the man who had previously parked to the left of me just now reaching the sidewalk, in front of me, to my right. He was bent over in exhaustion, his curled salt and pepper hair blowing with the strong breeze, his olive green quilted jacket flapping in the wind. He was carrying his tank of oxygen, appearing quite heavy in his current condition. My heart ached, wishing there had been more handicapped spaces so that he, too, did not have far to go. I said a short prayer he would be okay, knowing he still had to walk more steps to visit someone inside.

Not even knowing I was noticed, the gentleman called out to me. “Ma’am,” he asked, “is this the entrance to the emergency room?” I said no, he was quite far from its entry. I pointed out where it was, oh, so far away. It might as well have been in the next county. I looked at him and thought of my curbside spot. I knew what I had to do. “Would you like a”; before I finished my sentence, he said yes, getting quickly into my car.

As he bent over the seat, heavily breathing while inhaling the oxygen, I could hardly take a breath, scared I would not get him the emergency admittance on time. All I could do was ask God and our guardian angels to get us there in time. As we drove closer to the building, I asked him if he would like me to help him get inside. He accepted, saying he may collapse before he got to the doors. I am wondering how I was going to do this, using a wheelchair myself, but knew God would lead me.

Pulling up to the emergency room parking lot, a guard stopped me, asking if I would like valet parking. I said no, I was not acquainted with the gentleman in my car, I had found him in the parking lot; I would get him into admissions and be right back out. A puzzled look came over her face with me not fully comprehending why. What on earth did I mean I did not know this person in the car and found him in the parking lot? I’d be puzzled, too, if I had heard this said to me! As I stepped out from my driver’s seat, I called out him to stay right there, I was going to put him in my wheelchair and push him in.

I usually cannot hold five pounds in my hands, yet I was lifting this ailing man, probably weighing 150 pounds out of my car and placing him in my chair. I usually cannot walk anywhere without extreme discomfort and pain, but I was pushing him down the porch and on into the building, not feeling one thing, calmly telling him we were almost inside.

Once there, a young male nurse, greeted us with a smile. I quickly said I did not know this gentleman, that he needed help. I added that it was my wheelchair, could he please get another one. His warm eyes turned to ones of complete confusion. I believe he was thinking that perhaps I, too, should be admitted, for my own perplexed state of mind. He repeated what I said, with a question at the end of his statement, “You don’t know this man? This is your chair?” I was nodding in agreement, saying I found him in the parking lot. While I was quite serious, the nurse was doing his best to stifle his laughter.

The verbal exchange took only a minute, the poor gentleman waiting for a chair as I still grasped his shoulders, in fear of him slipping out of the chair. He called out he couldn’t breathe, which switched gears for the staff, rushing for another wheelchair, shifting him to a new seat.

I turned to go, this sweet man calling out “God bless you!” to me several times, my blessing him in return. Behind me I was surprised to see the guard who had met me at the entrance, asking if she could push me out in my chair. I think she likely came in to hear my story about this stranger in my car, wondering if I often find people in parking lots.

A few hours later, I called the emergency room, the same male nurse answering the phone. I said I was worried the family of this particular gentleman would not know where he had parked his car, I could provide the information. He said the man was doing better, he would be able to drive home. I was still worried; it was now dark, could someone take him to his car. He laughed, assuring me he would see that he got a ride.

Oh! As for my coveted parking place? It was still there after I did get back to the hospital lot that afternoon, waiting for me, just as I had left it. God took care of me from start to finish!
~Marie T. Morrison~

A GRATIFYING BURDEN

Taking on a Herculean task is most unpleasant. To imagine this burden as gratifying, while asking for a little help from God, lifts the heavy load. The heart, mind and soul are nourished, feeling at peace.
~Marie T. Morrison~

THE TWO OF US

What a close friend our shadow is. It is nearby as we look out to the beyond and becomes our constant companion as we move in motion. In prayer, its hands raise to the heavens with ours the surrounding silence leaving peace and serenity upon the soul. The togetherness between the two of us strengthens our spirits, giving us dauntless courage to meet the unexpected in each day.
~Marie T. Morrison~

ON THE ROAD

We are arriving on a new road today, departing from the road we took yesterday. Tomorrow, we will take a new road, for a yet unknown journey. Our wisdom and God’s grace will lead the way.
~Marie T. Morrison~

NOTHING SPOKEN

A tear in the eye, a hug given to console. Laughter over a child taking those first steps, all clapping hands in joy. Walking into the cold ocean, grabbing the hand of the person nearby to share that instant shiver. Sadness over the loss of a pet, facial
expressions shared in sorrow. Eating a delicious meal, eyes bright, nodding in agreement how tasty it is. Not one word has been spoken, as no one understands the language of the other. The silence brings an inseparable bond, carrying a vibrant noise of God's blessings and love.
~Marie T. Morrison~

TAKING OVER

As struggles appear, humility becomes powerful, the material goods not mattering at all. Taking over are courage, strength and faith, as God bestows mercy and love upon His blessed and precious children.
~Marie T. Morrison

A LOSS AND A LIGHT

How nice it is, to stay in touch with someone going through a loss. As others fall away, there one friend stands, never forgetting, always recognizing, what once was. Let the heart remain warm, keeping the Spirit afire for those ready to extinguish it. Hope and courage are requested in prayer, as God shows the way toward a new light.
~Marie T. Morrison~

A STORMY AND CALM TIME

As you feel agitation from the day, say a prayer to God. He will bring the calm to your storm.
~Marie T. Morrison~

OUR FINAL RIDE

Our last ride in life will be an exquisite one. The angels will come, finding where we are by the bright glow surrounding us. It is our souls they see adrift, made up of a myriad of transparent colors, waves of purple, green, yellow, pink and white. With their immense and majestic heavenly wings, they will swoop down to pick us up and carry us, leaving a trail of light as they quickly disappear into the sky. Those we have left behind need only smile, as the journey to our glorious home has been filled with an unexplainable love, peace, and joy.
~Marie T. Morrison~

SMALL AND HUGE

I found a white feather today. I smiled, knowing a special angel sent it to me. Small, soft between my fingers as I felt the quills, it gave me a huge message of love.

~Marie T. Morrison~

SITTING AT MY TABLE

Only yesterday, I shared food with a table with complete strangers. It was the typical pizza, each of us laughing and visiting between bites of gooey cheese and bits of pepperoni. It was very relaxing, no one caring about the background of anyone at the table. God's goodness was felt, a time to count our blessings. All of our eyes sparkled, just as the eyes of the one smiling innocent child at our table, who had yet traveled many paths on the journeys of life. What a lovely hour of of simpleness, a fine way to nurture the soul.
~Marie T. Morrison~

"They shared food with gladness and simplicity. They praised God and demonstrated God's goodness to everyone. " Acts 2:46,47 (CommonEnglishBible)

WHY DID I DO THAT?

WHY DID I DO THAT?
As a mistake transpires, a feeling of loss and frustration overtake the senses. Worry does not need to be on mind, for a new understanding from the experience is now present. The new knowledge and wisdom are there, to use the next time around.
~Marie T. Morrison~
“A person’s wisdom brightens the expression; it changes the hardness of someone’s face.” Eccl 8:1 (CommonEnglishBible)

THE SPIDER WEB

Loving someone too tightly, as if caught in a spider web, does not give room for a soul to be nourished or the spirit to breathe. The empowerment to have new experiences can ignite a new light. What an awe-inspiring sensation it will be!
~Marie T. Morrison~

NOT THE WHOLE STORY

There can be a difference in emotion between what the eyes see and the heart feels. The outside view does not always give the whole story. Take time to get to know the whole image. Doing so may make a meaningful mark in your life.
~Marie T. Morrison~

HARD WORK AND WEAKNESS

HARD WORK AND WEAKNESS

A friend of mine wanted to become a deacon in our parish. He attended my classes, one among many, being pulled by the Lord, to learn more about the faith. How excited he was, going through the interview process,waiting for the acceptance letter. The mailbox remained empty, bringing tears to all of us knowing him. We offered our words of comfort, not understanding, upset that this outstanding man in our community was turned away.

This gentleman was discouraged, but he did not stop believing in what God gives, nor did he turn away from his faith. He did not dwell in what was not, feeling there was something else in store for him. We prayed with him, asking our Lord to lead this generous, committed,somewhat quiet man toward the path he should take on his spiritual journey.

Within weeks, my friend began talking a new community project starting in our town, an inter-faith shelter for the homeless. He attended a few of the meetings, quite interested in how the shelter would help many, no matter their background. His eyes had a new look to them, a sparkle of excitement, his voice raising a pitch as he spoke. Those in my class laughed, knowing he was now taking the path he was meant to follow.

We began to see less of him at the once a week class; we knew where he was. I got a phone call weeks later, apologizing for not attending, he had been so busy, going beyond meeting attendance, now doing the labor with others to make the shelter come true. His commitment was now toward the homeless, I told him. I loved having him in my group, but this is where God wanted him. Instead of being a deacon for one group of people, he was being there for a large community. He was too valuable to only be in one place! “Tom's Place” is even what some of those needing help started to call the shelter where he worked, giving his own time and energy, night and day. Hearing this, he grins, but says there are many making this mission a success.

If it were not for the hard work of Tom and those like him, the homeless would be outside in the freezing temperatures. There would be no food to eat , a place to sleep, a place to feel safe. There would be no place to call 'home.' What a blessing it is, for all of those choosing to give rather than to receive.

~Marie T. Morrison~


In everything I have shown you that, by working hard, we must help the weak. In this way we remember the Lord Jesus' words: 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'" Acts 20:25 (Common English Bible)
http:CommonEnglishBible.com

MANY THANKS FOR THE CHALLENGES

MANY THANKS FOR THE CHALLENGES
During our challenges, we give thanks to God our Father. It is through them we become closest to Him. We grow in our wisdom as we plunge ourselves into each obstacle, praying to God to guide us, to help us as we overcome the battles we have been given. As success comes, we have a special song in our hearts, filled with words of love, thanksgiving, goodness and compassion for our Lord.

We will never reach a dead end, no matter the conflict in front of us. God will be there listening to our prayers, giving us the strength and courage to prevail. A new song of thanksgiving begins, our Lord with us, as we travel every leg of our journey.
~Marie T. Morrison~

HOW TO REPLENISH

Do not get spiritually drained by constantly tending to others. Give time to yourself, replenishing your spirit and feeling God's care.
~Marie T. Morrison~

TIME SPENT

When it is time for me to pass away, it is not every penny I want to have spent, but every minute of my life, spent in action, in every possible way!
~Marie T. Morrison~

HOW FAR?

Imagining life without God is picturing life without wheels. We cannot go far.
~Marie T. Morrison~

BLESSING GOD

BLESSING GOD
"Bless the God who lives forever, and bless his kingdom." Tobit 12:13 (Common English Bible)

Friends were quite surprised to hear that I bless God. They said He did not need a blessing, that all went well for him; we were the ones needing the blessings. I laughed, asking them to imagine even five minutes in God's day. People never stopped asking him for favors and if anything went wrong, they got angry, blaming him. He may receive gratitude in prayer, but more often than not, he is taken for granted. Yet, he continues to take care of everyone, blessing all and loving his children unconditionally. He, too, needs a blessing! What a perfect Bible passage, showing how great it is to bless God and his Kingdom!
~Marie T. Morrison~

THAT TWELFTH DAY

I always love the 12th Day of Christmas, the day the Magi gave their gifts to our Christ child. Matthew 2:10, tells us of their great joy, after following the star in the east and seeing it placed over the manger, “They entered the house and saw the child with Mary his mother. Falling to their knees, they honored him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.” What precious gifts!

There was the valuable gold, cited back in Genesis 13:2, “Abram was very wealthy in livestock, silver and gold.” Moses was instructed by the Lord to tell the Israelites to collect gold for him In Exodus 25:3, “These are the gift offerings that you should receive from them, gold, silver and copper.” As the Bible books progress, gold is there for the rulers, objects and for gift offerings in the temple, mentioned in 1 Chronicles 29:3-4, “I have dedicated my own private treasure of gold and silver to my God’s temple, in addition to all that I’ve provided for the holy temple: three thousand kikkars of gold from the gold of Ohir,” as well as the gold altar itself, “He took the gold altar..” (1 Macc 21:2). Such symbolism, to have gold brought to newborn King!

Frankincense, a sweet spice, considered a gum resin (tree sap) and having a captivating fragrance, was mentioned as far back as Exodus 30:34-36, when the Lord told Moses to mix it among other spices, making an incense formula, ‘perfectly holy,’ only to the Lord. In Leviticus 2:16, we read how the priest will completely burn the token portion-some of the crushed grain and oil along with all of the frankincense-as a food gift for the LORD,” reading it is a food gift again in Leviticus 24:7, “Put pure frankincense on each stack, as a token portion for the bread; it is a food portion for the LORD.” Because of it also being burned and having its pleasant aroma, the smoke rose to the heavens while in prayer. Envision the sight and aroma!

Myrrh, also considered a resin and costly spice ,though bitter in taste, was applied as a perfume, mentioned in Song of Songs 3:6, “She is perfumed with myrrh and frankincense, selected from all the spice merchants powders.” Myrrh also had the symbolism of mortality, an attempt to give to Jesus, “They tried to give him wine mixed with myrrh, but he didn’t take it,” (Mark 15:23), as it would help numb his pain. It was later used for the embalming of Christ, a commonly used for funeral purposes during this time. “Nicodemus, the one who at first had come to Jesus at night, was there too. He brought a mixture of myrrh and aloe, nearly seventy pounds in all,” (John 19:30)

Wealth, sweetness, a portion of food, and a symbol of mortality, God’s Spirit becoming flesh. God knew His people were ready to receive and welcome His Son into His world!

~Marie T. Morrison~

GOD’S WILL

GOD’S WILL

"But as for us, we will walk in the name of the LORD our God forever and always." Micah 3:5

We live according to God's will, having the freedom of choice. Doing an act in His name, whether it is a thought, word or deed, will keep us walking the straight path, never leading us astray.

~Marie T. Morrison~

IT IS A BLESSING TO SUFFER

A BLESSING TO SUFFER

When it comes to physical pain, I have been blessed to suffer more than others. Though some may look at me oddly when I say this, I truly do feel I carry an honor. Not everyone gets to be so close to Christ, being reminded of him and what he did for us because of my own pain. It is the passage, “You were called to this kind of endurance because Christ suffered on your behalf. He left you as an example so that you might follow in his footsteps,” (1 Peter 2:21) (CEB), that leaves me in many conversations with our Lord. He is my companion, always there, putting everything in perspective for me. What I go through is nothing compared to his suffering, nor am I mocked and tortured as he was. Though people tell me I am their inspiration to carry on, I tell them it is Christ who is mine.

Granted, I do not always stay so cheerful about it, wishing some days I could walk the dogs, one of the things I miss the most. However, staying in the wishing mode will not get me anywhere, not making me stronger. All I have to do is remember what Deuteronomy 8:18 says, “Remember the Lord your God! He’s the one who gives you strength!” (CEB) I am ready to move on, a bit stronger in my mind, body and soul than the moment before. I have another conversation with God, saying, “Okay, God! Let’s do it together!,” and off the two of us go.

I know I am never alone. Only once, did I have that down moment when talking to him, asking him to show me the way to keep moving. I wanted to, but I needed urging. Oh, how my pain was trying to take control of me! It was the passage from Daniel 10:18, that God showed to me, “"Don't be afraid. You are greatly treasured. All will be well with you. Be strong!" I shared a grin with him and immediately moved forward. Never have I let my pain take over my life; I am in charge!

I did just what Jeremiah 29:13,14, said to do, " When you search for me, yes, search for me with all your heart, you will find me. I will be present for you.” (CEB) It took me only a minute to search for him. He was right there, waiting for me. By the excitement in his voice, I knew he was hoping I would ask for his help.

What a full life I have! As Amos 5:6, states, “Seek the Lord and live.” (CEB) How truly blessed everyday can be!

~Marie T. Morrison~


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MY BLESSING TO YOU

May countless blessings come upon you in the New Year, as you take steps forward using your growing wisdom and knowledge. Let faith keep you standing, pulling you back up when those strenuous times knock you down. As you feel a breeze, it is an extra sprinkling of God’s joy, compassion, mercy, peace and grace, because of His love for you. Wherever you are, there will be our Lord, always within you, His Spirit always giving you hope.
~Marie T. Morrison~