Author: restoreroflostvoices

Bread and Beauty: Recipe of Remembrance

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A Song of Ascents

So our eyes look to the Lord our God, until He is gracious to us. Psalm 123: 2 NASB

A new year gifts us with fresh eyes, hope for new beginnings, the comfort of enduring friendships, and the expectancy of our unfolding story. What will the new year bring? In a world that often seems cold and unforgiving, we lift our gaze to the Lord UNTIL He is gracious to us. He will return. He has given us His promise!

I’ve been asked to share recipes through the years of our family’s favorite dishes and desserts. Friends often tease that I leave out key ingredients. And I have been known to do just that! Lasagna requires noodles and Carrot Cake shouldn’t be missing it’s main ingredient. However, like painting, cooking is fun and creative. I add a little of this or that, often sweet and sour, and no recipe is ever the same. I plan to blog some of our family recipes this year. These blogs will be called “Bread and Beauty.”

For starters, I came across an old journal entry, “5 phrases to remember in the new year.” I have no idea who wrote it. But I thought I’d share. I added three of my own.

5. I am proud of you.

4. May I help you?

3. I love you!

2. Thank you.

1. We.

…and I add

I am sorry.
Please forgive me.
Seek Christ-mas every day.

Happy New Year!

Lily Mae

Leadership: Love and Truth

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    “Woe, shepherds of Israel who have been feeding themselves! Should not the shepherds feed the flock? Is it too slight a thing for you that you should feed in the good pasture, that you must tread down with your feet the rest of your pastures? Or that you should drink of the clear waters, that you must foul the rest with your feet? Ezekiel 34: 3,18 NASB

     Jesus fed the crowds with love and Truth, and He noticed the missing one and ran after him. His desire for us is also deeply personal and passionate and trustworthy. But it doesn’t end there!
     Jesus’ headship exemplified love and Truth. He willingly submitted to His Heavenly Father, and He paid the penalty of death that we might live. Jesus’ shed blood secured our salvation. Leadership begins with the Good News of the Gospel—love and Truth set prisoners free!
     Leadership requires humility and mutual submission as we bend, break down walls of pride and pretense, and address our filth and stench. We observe what hurts, failed, and needs to heal. No believer is more superior to another. We were all created in God’s image and given a divine purpose. Thus, men and women alike, young and old, rich and poor, are called to speak of Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection. His resurrection power is for us. The Holy Spirit will be poured out on all peoples in the last days and they shall prophesy. Daily Bread to feed upon: 

  1. Love and Truth cannot be separated. Otherwise, Truth is a noise. (1 Corinthians. 13:1)
  2. We will know Jesus’ disciples by their love for one another. Our love for mankind also marks us. It’s not about us and them. We all need a Savior. (John 13: 35)
  3. Mercy triumphs judgement. Those who show mercy will receive mercy. (James 2:13) 
  4. Everyone has worth, old and young, male and female. However, God shows favor and concern for the most vulnerable, widows, orphans, and foreigners. (Exodus 22: 21, 22)
  5. The abuse of power, whether it’s experienced in a home, church, and/or workplace, destroys the spirit of a person. A wife despairs her husband’s control and manipulation. When leaders do the same, congregants, employees, and boards are also disheartened and defeated. But Jesus came to set us free from the cage of oppression. He fed, tended, and protected the flock; and He didn’t muddy the water. Every voice had value and purpose!
  6. The Gospel transforms us; and our ministry is often planted in the tilled soil of our past. 
  7. We must be rooted and grounded in love. It is a worthy foundation for all we say and do. Let us bow before the Father and ask the Holy Spirit to lead us. (Ephesians 3:14-20)

Proclaiming love and Truth,

Lily Mae

“AND IT SHALL BE IN THE LAST DAYS,” God says, “THAT I WILL POUR FORTH OF MY SPIRIT ON ALL MANKIND, AND YOUR SONS AND DAUGHTERS SHALL PROPHESY, AND YOUR YOUNG MEN SHALL SEE VISIONS, AND OLD MEN SHALL DREAM DREAMS. . . AND IT SHALL BE THAT EVERYONE WHO CALLS ON THE NAME OF THE LORD WILL BE SAVED.” Acts 2: 17-21 NASB

Love and Truth

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But now, thus says the Lord, your Creator, O Jacob, and He who formed you, O Israel, “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name; you are Mine! When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched, nor will the flame burn you.” Isaiah 43:1-2 NASB

     The world is broken and destitute; darkness prevails; its people need a Savior, deliverance and provision. The Gospel of Peace is good news for the hurt and hungry and homeless, proud and pious and “hangry.” While we were yet sinners, Jesus died for us. His shed blood paid our debt. 
     Let Truth sink in . . . God’s love is not earned.
     Love and Truth cannot be separated. Too often excuses are made to approach ministry from one angle. Unless we follow Jesus’ example, we will fail miserably. He didn’t send the crowds home empty-handed. He recognized their needs and fed them Bread of Life and fishes and loaves. Jesus also didn’t demean the masses for their lack of knowledge and understanding. Instead, He upheld their dignity and worth; He saw their full potential.
     Jesus also left the ninety-nine to seek the lost one.       
     Jesus went where it was uncomfortable. He met an adulterous woman at the well at high-noon, called a tax collector by name and dined with him; and He defended the woman about to be stoned. He stooped to speak to the children; but he was also accused of being a drunkard. 
     Jesus’ love was generous and unconditional. He broke down cultural, economic, and social barriers and lived a life of servanthood and sacrifice. He washed His disciples’ feet and made them breakfast. I attended a Mennonite church as a child where communion was combined with the practice of foot washing. There was no better way to learn of humility, grace, and intimacy. We remembered Jesus’ shed blood; and we died to self!
     Today’s redemption message gifts hope and peace. Jesus died for you and me.
     Do not be afraid, for the Lord gathers His children. He will not lose one whom He called by His name. We are precious in His sight and created for His glory. The Lord is not shaken or put off by the flood, our muddy trenches and devastated foundations. He will deliver us from Egypt and lead us to the promised land. His love is victorious.

Trusting in God’s love and Truth,

Lily Mae

“Do not fear, for I am with you; I will bring your offspring from the east, and gather you from the west. I will say to the north, ‘Give them up!’ And to the south, ‘Do not hold them back.’  Bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the ends of the earth, everyone who is called by My name, and whom I have created for My glory, whom I have formed, even whom I have made. Isaiah 43: 5-7 NASB 
     

Thread the Needle

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He quieted the sea with His power, and by His understanding He shattered Rahab. By His breath the heavens are cleared; His hand has pierced the fleeing serpent. . . Behold, these are the fringes of His ways; and how faint a word we hear of Him. Job 26: 12-14 NASB

The sunlight dancing on the ripples welcomed us aboard; and I did a mental check of our needs:  packed lunches, change of clothes, and life jackets. Did anyone know where they were stashed? My question got lost in summer’s last hoorah! the beauty and banter of friendship. 

We ate lunch and drifted with the water’s a cappella hymn-sing until we headed north, and a spark plug blew off. Our captain had another and tightened it best he could without proper tools. He managed the mishap and stress with cool expertise. The motor died several more times and the spark plug had to be fixed again; even so, we managed to make our dinner reservation. The amber sunset was stunning; and we lingered over coffee. We’d no idea what else was brewing!   

When we finally headed south, we saw two ominous storm clouds on the horizon. The captain and crew would have to “thread the needle” with care. My husband had been caught before in gales while fishing; so not much rattled his stoic stance. However, as the wind and cold rain began to whip us, and lightning flashed with fury, his eyes darted back and forth with concern. 

My girlfriends and I took refuge in the small cabin; and I asked where the life jackets were kept. I was terrified of the deep; and Cayuga Lake was known to be more than four hundred feet of bottomless deep. But Jesus slept while a storm raged; His soul rested in His Father. One friend stood and propped her head against the closet door near the cabin’s entrance to get fresh air. I reminded myself to exhale. Then with rising confidence, I began to sing, “Peace like a River.” And the captain’s wife joined me.  

Sweet how we prayed for safety and sang with courage, trust, and confidence at the same time. When we invited Jesus into the boat, we soon reached the other side. His presence was enough! 

The Lord overcame the waves that wreaked havoc on our thoughts, gifted us with His heavenly perspective, and pierced the one who struck us with fear and doubt and deemed us unworthy.  Faith increased with clarity; we are held, loved, and protected by the Creator of the Universe.  

When we docked, I was surprised to see the nighttime sky was beautifully lit and still. Ponder, these are the fringe of God’s ways. Shout it from the rooftops, “Jesus sets the captives free.” He helped the timid stand and led the orphan home. Likewise, grace and mercy covered His people. 

We need Jesus. Receive Him today; and He will change our hearts and homes. 

They saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near to the boat; and they were frightened. But He said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” So they were willing to receive Him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land to which they were going. John 6: 19-21 NASB

Restoration’s Promise

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He restores my Soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. 

Psalm 23:3 NASB

Seven months ago, I joined a study called Healing Journey. It was written by Cyndy Sherwood and run through Family Life Network. A mentor who’d taken the class advised me to reduce my schedule and responsibilities. The teacher challenged: “Be greedy for your healing!”

A fragile lily pressed through winter’s hard questions, frozen landscape, and rote prayers. Summer daises and dandelions entwined with new loss and hurt, celebrations and remembrances. My soul wept dry and then stone-cold. Healing required rest—a season to mourn, fast, and pray; and so, I stepped away from social media. And Jesus led me forward! 

No matter our brokenness, it’s important to identify the loss we’ve endured and our emotions that followed, ashen despair, creep of green sludge, and shame’s flood that forced us to hide, or else, erupt with fury. Our outlook may be clouded; but our feelings don’t lie. They just are! 

Our feelings are windows to our soul. They help us define and understand what has been hurt. Also, they reveal our humanity. Some are struck by numbness for decades, detached and hardened; and that is just the tip of the iceberg. But Jesus lives. So, our cold defense must fall. 

The lies are found in our beliefs and how we live. What we believe about God, His character and Word, and our relationship with Him and others must be re-framed with Truth. We are seen, known, and loved.

When I didn’t know how to begin again, God bridged the gap. A boy prayed for joy over his pancakes. It was a wise word for one so small. Then again, we’re told to come to God as a child. 

Later, my grandson dragged his feet around our pond with his walking stick and kicked the dry, dusty path without thought. I understood. My heart also hurt; and I was tired and listless. Meanwhile, his younger brother strayed into the high grass countless times and dared us to catch him with his mumbled gabs and giggles. They climbed the apple trees and swung from the low branches. Our routine was a chore until we began to walk the pond and collect nature’s treasure, the first maroon maple of Fall, an acorn head and hat, a Queen Anne’s doily, and a shiny, smooth rock. However, his smile didn’t quite reach his eyes. His oldest brother was now in kindergarten. 

We’d both been thrown into a “sea of want.” The waves of the missing—we may miss a loved one who passed away or the brother who has left us. Or else, we miss the mark or golden opportunity. Sometimes, we simply miss the way we were, how we ran, worked, and feasted. Nevertheless, God is never in a hurry. He can heal our heart and hurts. 

Jesus was on His way to Jairus’ house to heal his twelve-year-old daughter when He paused to give heed to a frantic woman who chased Him down for one touch of His hem. Jesus noticed. Jesus cared. His power was accessible; and it’s at our fingertips. 

Jesus is never missing in our “missing.”  

My grandson and I donned gloves and weeded the flower garden side-by-side; and his brother kept us cool. Although, the roses and lavender were thirsty; he preferred to tease and spritz us. We turned a corner with joy and laughter; and restoration was fashioned in the family promise. 

God unites families,

Lily Mae

Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for me? 

Jeremiah 32:27 NASB

Beauty’s Way

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The words of the wise heard in quietness are better than the shouting of a ruler among fools. Ecclesiastes 9: 17 NASB

     Bells jingled to signal my entrance to the dentist office, and Sergeant Thorough didn’t miss a beat as she studied my chart, “Correct pew and time this week?” I laughed at her tone more than her remark. She sounded gruff; but she had earned my trust. 

     For years, I’d dug my finger nails into my wrist to calm my nerves after going through a dreadful experience at another office. I wasn’t aware that it was a form of self-injury until I became a Counselor/Advocate for survivors of domestic and sexual violence and tried to stop. Then a friend informed me that she recalled her favorite hymns as she endured painful procedures. 

     Nevertheless, my dental hygienist soon had me in stitches with her questions, “What do you think of the Oscar debacle? Do you like to garden?” I tried to say that fists and fights aren’t the answer; and I like to weed, but I can’t bend or kneel anymore . . . all while my mouth was held wide open. She also recalled that my friends and I take turns making dinner on Bible study nights, but she twisted some of the details. I tried to defend myself; it’s only a female gathering! Then with a dramatic gasp, she noticed my long eye lashes. I assured her that they’re not fake and admitted that they smudge my glasses all day. When she finally suctioned my mouth clean, I quickly sputtered, “We could have a conversation if you stopped cleaning my teeth!” To which she raised an eyebrow and grinned as she asked, “Did I make you laugh?” 

     Sergeant Thorough had effortlessly put me at ease. A thousand words couldn’t have talked me down off my precarious ledge, just like a rumble of fists and kicks couldn’t right a wrong. 

Wisdom is better than weapons of war. Ecclesiastes 9:18 NASB

     Some may people-watch; but do we respond with care, concern, and compassion to the restless sneaker tapping, pulling tissues, and sorrowful, distant gaze? Do we engage or avoid the empty pools? Or else, has our job or ministry become so repetitious that we don’t notice when someone needs a seat or a cold cup of water? A kind word goes miles and doesn’t cost a dime. Therefore, we ought to listen with the eyes of our heart and tread lightly. 

     There’s a time to be silent and a time to speak. Nothing new is seen under the sun. Generations come and go. Hurt people, hurt people. We all need a rescue, Savior and Redeemer; the battle belongs to Him. 

     While Sergeant Thorough finished my cleaning, I silently hummed, “How Great Thou Art!” Worship is also better than weapons of war . . . and the injuries we inflict upon ourselves. 

     Jesus is our salvation. His shed blood has made us clean. His shed blood has made us worthy. We may be weak and wearied, but we won’t be left undone. Trust and patience will bear fruit. When we choose to listen over complaints, comparisons, and defenses, we begin to let go of past hurts, regrets, and failures. Besides, worship sets our eyes on our eternal hope . . . Jesus. All else fails in comparison.

Drawing near to listen,

Lily Mae

Guard your steps as you go to the house of God and draw near to listen . . .
Ecclesiastes 5:1 NASB

Beauty’s Timing

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God has made everything beautiful in its time. Ecclesiastes 3:11 NIV

     I like to people-watch. However, after I’d observed a steady stream of heavy-eyed mothers and croupy children, feeble elderly, and disheveled, pajama-clad adults enter and leave a medical facility for thirty minutes, I questioned my status and learned that I’d arrived an hour early. Later, when asked my birthday, I hesitated. The nurse laughed, “Did you forget your birthday?” Apparently! We laughed as I told her how I used to argue with my youngest over his birth date. Now, I couldn’t remember mine.

     In the afternoon, I showed up for a dentist appointment that was scheduled for the following week. So, I slipped next door and visited a friend’s new shop, and her daughter made me a delicious cup of orange spice tea. Then I slumped into a corner seat to chat. I was desperate for rest, care, and support. 

     My back was injured, joints inflamed, innards twisted and sluggish, and sinuses were swollen and congested. I was a hot mess! I’d written in my journal that morning, “Lord, heal my eyes, knees, and hands; mend my tired and broken heart. Grant me fresh perspective.” 

     I preferred to make tea for others, but it was time to accept help. 

     Besides, the more I rushed, the more the Lord slowed me down.

     In Ecclesiastes, the congregation was gathered for instruction:

All things are wearisome. 1:8

The eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor is the ear filled with hearing. 1:8

With wisdom comes much grief. Increased knowledge results in increased pain. 1:18

Both the wise man and the fool have the same fate. 2:16

There’s a time for everything—

     To give birth and die, plant and uproot, kill and heal, tear down and build up, weep and laugh, mourn and dance, throw and gather stones, embrace and separate, search for and give up as lost, keep and throw away, tear apart and bind, be silent and speak, love and hate, and war and peace. 3:1-5

A triple-braided cord isn’t easily broken. 4:12

Guard your steps as you go to the house of God. Draw near to listen. 5:1 

When you make a vow to God, be sure to keep it. 5:4  

Sorrow is better than laughter. Adversity is better than pleasure. Patience is better than pride. 7:3,4,8

Who is able to straighten what God has bent? 7:13     

A wise word heard in quietness makes a difference. 9:17

Wisdom is better than weapons of war. 9:18

Cast your bread upon the waters. 11:1

     A friend had taken a calculated risk with a new business. I rested and resolved to begin again. A whimsical, floral wreath caught my eye as I was about to leave. Three iridescent dragonflies were set above two miniature, wrought-iron, garden chairs. It was a vision of rest and promise. And it would look lovely hung on our front door. 

     While some days perplex us, and we can’t comprehend what God is doing, we can trust Him. For God makes everything beautiful in its time.   

Trusting in the Lord’s timing,

Lily Mae

Ebenezer, Stone of Help

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     The Philistines drew near to battle against Israel. But the Lord thundered with a great thunder on that day against the Philistines and confused them, so that they were routed before Israel. Then Samuel took a stone and set it between Mizpah and Shen, and named it Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the Lord has helped us.” I Samuel 7:10, 12 NASB

     Israel’s enemies attacked after she’d returned to the Lord, repented of her sin and removed her idols. Samuel set a stone to mark the place between the two cities where God’s enemies had fled in fear and confusion. The Philistines didn’t draw near again for battle because of His defense. The Ebenezer stone was a tangible reminder to the Israelites of God’s power and protection.

     We shouldn’t be surprised when we’re also attacked by the enemy after we confess our sins and recommit to the Lord, embark on a new ministry, or determine to give of our time, gifts, and money. Any resolution to further the gospel message might invite an ambush by the enemy. Therefore, we must stand firm, be alert to Satan’s tactics, and put on the full armor of God.  

     We must gird our loins with Truth; put on the breastplate of righteousness and choose holiness. We shod our feet with the preparation of the Gospel of Peace. During Biblical times, combat boots were embedded with nails for better grip and defense. But our sins have been nailed to the cross. Jesus’ shed blood made a way for us to have peace with God. He stands with us. 

      We take up our shield of faith to fight off the enemy’s fiery missiles. Then we put on the Helmet of Salvation and carry the Sword of the Spirit; and pray in the Spirit at all times. Like a soldier, we must be alert and diligent, ready to defend and endure with petitions for all saints. (Ephesians 6: 10-18)  

     Furthermore, we recall that God’s promises are for us! (Galatians 3:29) 

     Psalm 121 tells us that the Lord is our Helper. He never grows weary of our struggles, nor sleeps. He will not let our feet slip. The Lord is the keeper of our soul; He is our shade and rest. The Lord is our protector; He guards our going out and coming in, now and forevermore. 

     When we’re caught between two hard places, we can’t return to where we’ve been, and we’re not sure what lies ahead, we can be certain that the Lord is with us and has helped us thus far! Here lies the Truth that is worthy to be marked with an Ebenezer stone. 

Trusting in God’s mighty hand,

Lily Mae

I will lift up my eyes to the mountains; from where shall my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to slip. He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord is your Keeper . . . He will keep your soul. Psalm 121:1-7 NASB

Thunderous Redemption

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Hannah’s Prayer: Even the barren gives birth to seven . . . He raises the poor from the dust, He lifts the needy from the ash heap . . . The Lord keeps the feet of His godly ones, but the wicked ones are silenced in darkness; for not by might shall a man prevail. Those who contend with the Lord will be shattered; against them He will thunder in the heavens. I Samuel 2: 5-10 NASB

     A mother’s prayer anticipated the victorious voice of God.

     Hannah had trekked to the annual Feasts of Tabernacles with her husband, Elkanah, year after year, despite her barrenness, shame, and sorrow. Her rival, his first wife, had provoked her bitterly and thundered against her; and she was overcome by despair. Therefore, Hannah wouldn’t eat of the peace offerings, but she persevered in prayer. (I Samuel 1 NASB Study Bible)

     When Hannah poured out her soul before the Lord, Eli, the priest, overheard and thought she was intoxicated. When she explained why she was oppressed, he told her to “Go in peace; and may God answer your prayers!” In time, the Lord remembered Hannah; He opened her womb. When she gave birth to Samuel, she dedicated him to the Lord and wrote a song of thanksgiving. 

     Hannah had experienced cruel ridicule and humiliation; so, she prayed that the Lord would silence those who had opposed Him, that they’d be shattered by His thunderous voice.  Unbeknownst to Hannah, her child would one day come under God’s protective roar.

     Samuel persisted in prayer like his mother. When the Philistines threatened war, he challenged Israel to return to the Lord with her whole heart, to repent of sin and remove her idols, and God was faithful to help Israel overcome the enemy. The Lord thundered with a great thunder; He sent His foes into confusion and struck them down.

     Then Samuel set a stone between Mizpah and Shen, and named it Ebenezer, “stone of help,” for thus far the Lord had helped them! The Philistines were subdued and ravaged cities were restored to Israel. God answered a mother’s prayer; He used what had hurt her to overcome the enemy. 
    
The voice of the Lord is mightier than that of man.
 
     Whatever we face, we must pray with similar determination and heed the Lord’s response. His thunderous voice silences His enemies in darkness and redeems what caused hurt and separation. Babies are born, weak knees stand, cloudy lens are cleared, and the feet of the godly are kept.   

     Victory belongs to the Lord.

Rejoicing, for He has helped us thus far!

Lily Mae

     The Philistines drew near to battle against Israel. But the Lord thundered with a great thunder on that day against the Philistines and confused them, so that they were routed before Israel. Then Samuel took a stone and set it between Mizpah and Shen, and named it Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the Lord has helped us.” I Samuel 7:10, 12 NASB

Way of Peace

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In the Lord I take refuge. How can you say to my soul, “Flee as a bird to your mountain; for, behold, the wicked bend the bow, they make ready their arrow upon the string to shoot in darkness at the upright in heart. If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do? Psalm 11: 1-3 NASB

     The Lord is trustworthy. We come to Him as the orphan, captive, outcast, and stranger and see the beauty of His face in the merciful break of dawn. He also is the whiteout. He re-frames the lies of the enemy with love, mercy, and Truth. And He guides our feet into the way of peace!

     Our foundational roots must be embedded in love and Truth so that when perilous storms hit, we are ready and equipped. We must cling to what we know about God and His past faithfulness. Our road may be uncertain, but He is trustworthy.     

   Thirty-five years ago, I’d longed for home, to be known, loved and accepted; but I’d closed the door. However, Truth circled with the passing of my dad and his long-forgotten, favorite dessert, gingerbread and applesauce. Grace had won my heart. And it took a blizzard to see it! 

I’ve served feasts that left others famished. I dumped water on myself in my hurry, chucked split pea soup in my anger, forgot to put noodles in my lasagna while I multi-tasked, and my prayers were unspoken. There were times I didn’t want to return to where I’d been, nor open our front door. But God thought different. We either listen to the voice that tells us to flee or we pursue the way of peace.

     The way of peace starts with confession. 

     The Sons of Israel assembled to fast in loose sackcloth and with dirt rubbed upon themselves. They couldn’t hide their sin, nor the sins of their fathers. With heavy heart and humility, they confessed their sin and committed to follow God’s way. He is the perfect standard! (Nehemiah 9)
     

We discover the heart of God in Israel’s prayer and worship:

     He alone is Lord; His name is above all names.
The Lord is faithful; He keeps His covenant promises.
     The Lord sees the affliction of His people.
     He performed signs and wonders. 
     The Lord divided the sea and hurled His enemies into the depths.
He led His children by pillar of cloud during the day and fire by night. 
     And He sustained them in the wilderness.
God spoke to the Sons of Israel from heaven and gave them His Word, law and commandments.
    The Lord forgives and disciplines stubborn and rebellious hearts.    
He is gracious and compassionate.
     He does not abandon us in our desert wasteland.
     The Lord is patient; He hears our plea for help and rescues us, time and time again. 
     God does not make an end of His people; rather, they revel in His goodness.
     His love and faithfulness throughout history lead us to speak. He is the way of peace!     

Pursuing peace,

Lily Mae

     For the Lord is righteous, He loves righteousness; the upright will behold His face. 
Psalm 11: 7 NASB