Tag: #Faith

Hey Cutie-Pie, Are We in Love? #7 Thoughtfulness

A Series on Love, Laughter, and the Little Things

Image Source: http://www.oaklandcountylakesmi dot com/tag/thoughtfulness/

Let’s be real.

Thoughtfulness is more than remembering birthdays. Right?

But if your partner continues to “forget” vital dates regularly, maybe it’s time to dial it back a notch?

Thoughtfulness IS the little things as well as the BIG things – like birthdays!

It’s about paying attention to what makes them smile. What brings your partner joy?

“Let all that you do be done in love.” — 1 Corinthians 16:14

Fun & Faithful

A good partner knows the power of small gestures.

It’s the note in the lunchbox.
The extra blanket on a cold night.
The goofy meme you send when they’re feeling down.

Thoughtfulness doesn’t require grand gestures.

It’s the gentle reminders that say:

“I’m here, and I see you.”

So, tell me: What’s the smallest thing your partner has done that meant the world to you?

Thoughtfulness is a key ingredient to the secret sauce.

It’s the quiet ways we show up for each other.
The way we pay attention.
The way we care—over and over again.

It’s the gentle stuff that says:

“I’m thinking of you… always.”

I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Please comment and “like” this post if you feel led to.

#Love #Kindness #Patience #Humor #Faith #Flexibility #Thoughtfuness #Relationships #GoingTheDistance #IandThouReflections

A Father’s Day Tribute

My Dad, A Faithful Servant

A God-fearing man.
Quiet.
Steady.
Consistent.
A faithful servant was he.

Dad was Dad—
Meek, mild, and even-tempered,
day in
and day out.
A faithful servant was he.

He rarely told me what to do.
Sometimes, I listened,
and other times,
I didn’t.
A faithful servant was he.

He tolerated my fashion shows.
Twirling and dancing,
he turned newspaper pages.
Gazing up each time
with an ooh and an ahh.
A faithful servant was he.

Dad held my hair back when sick.
Cool cloths blotted
neck and forehead,
hand held
tenderly.
He was there for it all.
A faithful servant was he.

“Dad, can you drive me here,
there, everywhere?” I pleaded.
Off we would go.
Ice-skating, sledding, roller-skating.
A faithful servant was he.

As nutmeg and cinnamon
filled the air,
a rolling pin and flour
lay on the counter.
There stood Dad,
donned in an apron
and
chef’s hat.
A faithful servant was he.

Peering through
the oven door’s glass.
Waiting patiently
for the pies
and fruit cake
to bake.
A faithful servant was he.

Work clothes each workday.
Coffee.
Apple.
A Bible tucked in his lunchbox.
A faithful servant was he.

Jack of all trades,
His tools lined up on the pegboard.
Played music by ear,
sang solos at church.
A faithful servant was he.

He lived by faith,
walked in grace,
and loved as best he could.
Not perfect, yet steadfast.
Well done, good and faithful servant.

Dad’s 70th Birthday Celebration
Circa 1988

Happy Father’s Day!

#Father’sDay #Parenting #Faith #MothersandParenting

Hey Cutie-Pie, Are We in Love? #6: Flexibility

A Series on Love, Laughter, and the Little Things

Image Source: Pinterest

Let’s be real.

Some of us are not as flexible as others. Right?

A good partner is ready, from surprise rain showers to a surprise birthday party. They know that life doesn’t always follow the plan.

Why?

Because plans change.
And sometimes the TV settings can mysteriously change, too.

The question is how flexible you can be. Can you pivot quickly?

When we’re faced with change, we have to roll with it.
We need to laugh through it.
We need to stay open – even when it’s a little uncomfortable.

“Let each of you look not only to his own interests but also to the interests of others.” — Philippians 2:4

Fun & Faithful

Flexibility isn’t about giving up everything—it’s about meeting in the middle. Even if it means watching that rom-com you said you’d never watch.

Think of a yoga pose. You need to stay nimble and flexible.
Breathe deep.
Bend a little.
Find your balance – together.

So tell me: What’s the most unexpected change you’ve rolled with lately?

Flexibility is part of the secret sauce, too.

It’s the way you compromise.
The way you shift.
It’s the smile that says: I’m here for the adventure – no matter where it takes us.

It’s the gentle stuff that says:

“I’m willing to bend a little – for us.”

I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Please comment and “like” this post if you feel led to.

#Love #Kindness #Patience #Humor #Faith #Flexibility #Relationships #GoingTheDistance #IandThouReflections

Hey Cutie-Pie, Are We in Love? #5: Faith

A Series on Love, Laughter, and the Little Things

Image Source: thechristianconservative dot site

Let’s be real.

Faith isn’t just for Sundays.

You want someone who believes in God, love, and maybe even your karaoke dreams—no judgment.

“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” — Joshua 24:15

Fun & Faithful

Faith shapes how you treat each other every day.

It’s the quiet strength beneath the laughter, the peace in the middle of the chaos.

It’s the prayer whispered in the dark, the gentle “Amen” after a long day.

The faith that says:

“I’m here and trust in something bigger than us.”

It’s not about perfect faith—it’s about growing together.
Praying together.
Dreaming together.

So tell me: What’s one small way you’ve seen your faith bring you closer to God and your partner?

Faith is key.

It’s the patient ear.
The steady hand.

The calm in your eyes that says: Through it all, I believe in us.

It’s the gentle stuff that says:

“I’m here for you, no matter what.”

I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Please comment and “like” this post if you feel led to.

#Love #Kindness #Patience #Humor #Faith #Relationships #GoingTheDistance #IandThouReflections

Wine & Faith by Nadia Crane: Reflection #1

A Reflection Series for Mental Health Awareness Month

The Weight of The Overwhelm

Excerpt from Wine & Faith – 19 Days in Napa

Jill, the main character, is having an internal dialogue with herself about her husband, Derek…

“With the teacher conference conversation still fresh in my mind, I felt at a crossroads. I saw a pattern. Derek did not. My good kids were morphing into out-of-control kids. As a mother, I had to fix this problem….So, I decided to call Amelia and finally take her up on her offer for a visit.” – Jill Mandela

Faith Reflection

Have you ever felt like you were at the end of your rope and had to do something fast?

When we get overwhelmed, it feels like the walls are closing in. And there is nowhere to escape. In other words, it is that crushing point when everything feels urgent.

The people we love hurt.
Responsibilities pile up.
And there is pressure to “fix it.”

But sometimes, feeling overwhelmed can be a signal. It tells us that something needs to change.

Jill realizes she needs distance.

Not to escape – but to find clarity.

“But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.” -Luke 5:16

In this passage, we read that Jesus withdrew to quiet places to pray. He needed space to breathe. A place to pause and regroup. Clarity doesn’t always come through effort. Sometimes, it arrives in stillness and prayer.

In several key moments in the book, Jill reads scripture and then seems to receive a divine message. All leading her to greater insights and a softer heart.

Haiku

In the tangled noise
Clarity waits, whispering—
Step back, take a pause

Reflective Questions

When life feels too full, where do you go for clarity?

What’s one area in your life where stepping back could help you see more clearly?

I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Please comment and “like” this post if you feel led to do so.

#MentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness #Overwhelm #Relationships #WineandFaith #NadiaCrane #thepaiseleyfrog #LifeJourney

Women’s History Month – Part 17: Lydia’s Legacy

A Legacy of Hospitality

Lydia’s home was more than just a gathering place.
It was a sanctuary.
A refuge.
A space where believers could grow in faith and find strength in community.

Her hospitality went far beyond the typical bed and breakfast. She created an environment where faith could flourish.

Lydia’s story inspires us to share our faith. We need to share it in the best way we know how. Whether it is through selling purple cloth or opening our homes for fellowship, let us share the good news with those near and far.

Image Source: Generated with ChatGPT

A Legacy of Leadership

A good leader is hard to find. They seem to hide in the strangest places. Yet, we do know that God blesses each of us with certain skills and abilities. The hard part is trying to figure out what they are.

Lydia knew what her skills were and how to use them. She had a knack for welcoming people and making them feel comfortable. She also provided words of wisdom to grow the faith community. Lydia had good business sense. There is no doubt about it.

Like all great leaders, Lydia didn’t lead from a distance. She was deeply involved in her community.

She listened.
She acted.
She believed.
She led.

And she spread the gospel.
Near and far.

While history may not always highlight them, women like Lydia played a critical role in shaping Christianity.

Lydia’s story serves as a reminder that faith is more than a journey. It is a long-lasting legacy.

How are we using our influence? Our resources? Our gifts?

Lydia’s story reminds us to say yes.

Yes, to baptism.
Yes, to hospitality.
Yes, to fellowship.
Yes, to share your faith.

Why?

Because faith is more than a journey. It is a legacy. A lasting one.

Next time, we will look at Shiphrah and find out how this obscure woman in The Bible saved an entire nation.

#March #WomensHistoryMonth #WomenintheBible #ObscureWomen #WomeninHistory #Tabitha #Hannah #Lydia #Shiphrah #WomanattheWell #Legacy

Creativeness in the Sacred

Artist Credit: Comfort & Joy
by P.s. Art Studios

Comfort & Joy

Comfort and joy,
Where can I find this comfort and joy?
Take a break. Step away and find a quiet place.

Comfort and joy,
Where can I find this comfort and joy?
Sit for a while. Ask for God’s presence.

Comfort and joy,
Where can I find this comfort and joy?
Be still. Close your eyes. Breathe. Relax.

Comfort and joy,
Where can I find this comfort and joy?
In the depths of your soul, reach as far down as you can.

Comfort and joy,
Where can I find this comfort and joy?
Sit for a while. Be open to God’s presence.

Comfort and joy,
Where can I find this comfort and joy?
Ask God to sit next to you and join you in your thoughts.

Comfort and joy,
Where can I find this comfort and joy?
Shh. Quiet. Hear God speak.

God says, Hello, precious child.
“I knit you together in your mother’s womb.” (Psalm 139:9)
I am so happy to see you. I’ve been waiting for you to ask me to sit with you.
Go ahead and tell me what is on your mind.

It’s okay. Speak your mind.
Stay awhile in this sacred place.

Comfort and joy,
Where can I find this comfort and joy?
In this sacred space, may you find comfort and joy.

Whatever your religious beliefs are or are not, may this season of holidays, encourage you and bring you tidings of comfort and joy.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

*****

Inspired by the Christmas Song, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen…
“Fear not,” then said the Angel, “let nothing you affright,
This day is born a Saviour, Of pure Virgin bright,
To free all those who trust in Him, From Satan’s power and might.”
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy,
O tidings of comfort and joy.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

#Comfort #Joy #Christmas #SacredSpace #NadiaCraneAuthor #Wine&Faith #RecommendedBooks

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Thanks so much for your support and encouragement!

Daily writing prompt
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Christmas Hope & Redemption: Day 11 Twelve Days of Isaiah

Day 11~ Isaiah 40:28-31

Is There Room in Your Heart?

To Trust?

To Love?

To Forgive?

If yes…

Let’s Soar Together!

Throughout this chapter of Isaiah, we have read about God’s returning the Israelites to Jerusalem. We have seen the power of God’s creation and how we are like grasshoppers.

Although we become disgruntled and weary, God’s energy and power are limitless.

In this passage, the central theme is hope and redemption. We have a choice. We can get crushed like a serpent or we can soar like an eagle.

What do you choose?

Let’s read this passage in Isaiah. Shall we?

1. New International Version
2. The Complete Jewish Bible.

Scripture from: http://www.biblegateway.com.

Soar Like an Eagle

Isaiah 40:28-31 NIV

28 Do you not know?
Have you not heard?
The Lord is the everlasting God,
    the Creator of the ends of the earth.
He will not grow tired or weary,
    and his understanding no one can fathom.
29 He gives strength to the weary
    and increases the power of the weak.
30 Even youths grow tired and weary,
    and young men stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in the Lord
    will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
    they will run and not grow weary,
    they will walk and not be faint.

.

Isaiah 40:28-31 CJB

28 Haven’t you known, haven’t you heard
that the everlasting God, Adonai,
the Creator of the ends of the earth,
does not grow tired or weary?
His understanding cannot be fathomed.
29 He invigorates the exhausted,
he gives strength to the powerless.
30 Young men may grow tired and weary,
even the fittest may stumble and fall;
31 but those who hope in Adonai will renew their strength,
they will soar aloft as with eagles’ wings;
when they are running they won’t grow weary,
when they are walking they won’t get tired.

Image Source: Created with AI using Soar Like an Eagle with the scripture above

#Hope&Redemption #12DaysofIsaiah #Christmas #Comfort #ComfortOneAnother #LiftUpYourVoice #SpiritoftheLord #SpecksofDust #Idolatry #Universe #Heavens #SoarLikeanEagle #IandThouReflections

Christmas Hope & Redemption: Day 10 Twelve Days of Isaiah 40

Day 10~ Isaiah 40:25-27

Once we can wrap our heads around the fact that we can’t begin to fathom the greatness of God, we must rely on our faith.

If we believe that God is everywhere, the imagery of looking up in the sky reminds us of the vastness and limitlessness of our Divine Creator. Don’t you think?

Then, why do we often feel abandoned or overlooked by God?

Could it be in that very same vastness of the universe? We ask ourselves how God can possibly know our hearts when we seem so small in comparison.
We feel lost.
Lost in the vastness.

In this passage, the Creator of the heavens invites us to lift our eyes to heaven. Why? To show us how Each star in the universe is named, pointing to the fact that God knows every minute detail of ALL his creation, including us.

Let’s read this passage in Isaiah. Shall we?

1. New International Version
2. The Complete Jewish Bible.

Scripture from: http://www.biblegateway.com.

Lift Your Eyes to the Heavens

Isaiah 40:25-27 NIV

25 “To whom will you compare me?
    Or who is my equal?” says the Holy One.
26 Lift up your eyes and look to the heavens:
    Who created all these?
He who brings out the starry host one by one
    and calls forth each of them by name.
Because of his great power and mighty strength,
    not one of them is missing.
27 Why do you complain, Jacob?
    Why do you say, Israel,
“My way is hidden from the Lord;
    my cause is disregarded by my God”?

.

Isaiah 40:25-27 CJB

25 “With whom, then, will you compare me?
With whom am I equal?” asks the Holy One.
26 Turn your eyes to the heavens!
See who created these?
He brings out the army of them in sequence,
summoning each by name.
Through his great might and his massive strength,
not one of them is missing.
27 Why do you complain, Ya‘akov;
why do you say, Isra’el,
“My way is hidden from Adonai,
my rights are ignored by my God”?



Image Created by AI using scripture reference and key words

#Hope&Redemption #12DaysofIsaiah #Christmas #Comfort #ComfortOneAnother #LiftUpYourVoice #SpiritoftheLord #SpecksofDust #Idolatry #Universe #Heavens #IandThouReflections

Unwrapping the Gifts to Eternal Life: The Wise Men

Prepare Ye The Way

Let’s continue to prepare our hearts for Christmas. Shall we?

Our journey will take us to Christmas, where we will find hope and redemption to renew our faith, whatever that faith may be.

In the previous post, we explored how Christmas found its place on December 25 and how it was rooted in the ancient festival of Saturnalia.

The next three blog posts will focus on the significance of the wise men’s gifts to Baby Jesus. Today, we start with what Matthew had to say.

Ever wonder where the Magi brought their gifts?

The Three Magi Magi Mags royalty-free vector graphic by pixabay dot com

Let’s see what the Bible has to say in Matthew 2.

After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen when it rose went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. 10 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.

Matthew 2:9-12

Does it Really Matter?

So, we understand the story. King Herod sent the wise men to find the Baby. But the text doesn’t reveal how the wise men came to possess the gifts.

Did King Herod give them to the wise men?

Or did the wise men buy them along the way?

Or, perhaps they had these gifts along, waiting for the right time to give them away.

No, it doesn’t matter at all. The Wise Men presented Jesus’ holiness and signified that Jesus came to Earth to save our souls. And that is what matters most.

Divine Mystery

There is no doubt these gifts had divine mystery. There were profoundly more than mere symbols of wealth. These gifts speak to Jesus’ life and the hope He offers. Their meaning unlocks the keys to everlasting life.

In the next post, we’ll unwrap these treasures and uncover their significance. We will start with gold – A gift fit for a King!

#TheThreeWiseMen #Gifts #Jesus #Isaiah #Prophecy #Hope&Redemption #12DaysofIsaiah #Christmas #Comfort #ComfortOneAnother #IandThouReflections