The Road To Freedom

Stepp'n...

2012-01-03T16:21:00.007-06:00

...into a New Year!

HAPPY NEW YEAR BLESSINGS!

May 2012 take you to new places of adventure and rest.

~Jodie

Our Gift

2011-12-21T11:50:00.008-06:00

It's Christmas week. Are you ready?

Jesus is coming!

We are in last-minute preparations - gifts, grocery shopping, sending cards & letters, cleaning, adorning our homes in Christmas attire - many preparations.

But, are you ready?

Jesus is coming! Yes, Jesus!

The King of Kings. The Lord of Lords. The Prince of Peace.

Prepare your heart. Make a place at your table. Invite Him. Receive Him.

The baby Jesus is coming - to you, to the world.

Unwrap Him as you would your other gifts. Show Him off to all your family & friends. Embrace all of what He brings to you. His Love. His Peace. His Rest. His Grace.

Luke 2:11 For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

JOY TO THE WORLD, CHRIST THE SAVIOUR IS COME!

12 Days of Christmas

2011-12-08T11:20:00.009-06:00

Hi Everyone ~

If you're in the middle of Christmas preparations or just getting started, I wanted to share a Christmas blessing that's sure to add fun to your Holiday festivities along with keeping you focused on Christ and His Christmas blessings for you.

Karen Ehman, Proverbs 31 Ministries, is hosting 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway on her website. Even though it's Day 11 -- it's not to late to "catch up" and enter in this Giveaway bonanza of Christmas fun! You can go back to Day 1 - you have until midnight EST, Dec 11th to comment & enter.

Each day, she features a guest writer from the Proverbs 31 ministry team and offers a chance to win that day's giveaway to those who comment. If you comment on all 12 days, you are entered in for the grand prize gift.

To join in the fun, click on the button to the right which will take you to her website or click here.

It's like Christmas before Christmas - Enjoy!
Jodie

Jeff

2011-12-03T08:11:00.008-06:00

My post today is in tribute to Grant's longtime friend, Jeff. We just came home from his memorial service...remembering and celebrating his life with his family and many friends.

Grant and Jeff were childhood buddies, "joined at the hip", as Jeff's mom would often say. They did all kinds of fun stuff together, got into all kinds of trouble and stood up for each other at their 1st weddings. As life happens, they eventually lost touch.

God had other plans...April 2010, Jeff and Grant connected again.

We learned Jeff was surviving stage 4 lung cancer, diagnosed in 2007 and at that time only given 4 to 6 months to live. In May 2010, I met Jeff at the fundraiser his family hosted for him as a way to raise financial support for him. Grant & I were blessed to spend our 30th wedding anniversary with Barb & Jeff up at their lake home near Mille Lacs. This summer, Jeff & Grant planted 400 tree seedlings on his mom's property with the hope to replant them in the woods to grow up and become trees for eagles to nest in.

He was a man who lived life to the fullest. He had this great smile and laugh with this wonderful sense of humor. AND he loved coffee! He was a role model to many boy scouts. If he had an idea, he would pursue it - he didn't know the word "I can't". He loved nature and loved the land his parents built their house on in Randolph - the Property. That's where his service was at today. As we were just getting past Randolph, it started snowing - how beautiful it was. We were out in the woods - winding road with trails into the woods and benches to sit on. We raised the United States Flag - as he loved the USA. We said the Boy Scout Oath and Motto. Memories, tributes, and pictures were shared as we all sat outside amidst the large flakes of snow falling down. Oh, how he loved to sit and watch the snow fall. His ashes were buried up on the small hill to the side of the house. It was a day celebrated as Jeff would have wanted it.

Lord, thank you for the friends you bring into our lives to enrich our life.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Jeffrey Scott Maltby Visit Guest Book

Was born on November 29, 1954 Passed away November 27, 2011 Jeff died peacefully after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Jeff was preceded in death by his father; Wendell Maltby. Survived by his loving mother, Patricia Maltby; his children, Jon and Melissa Maltby; grandson, Tyler Maltby; his significant other, Barbara Matthews; mother of his children, Susan Krohn; his siblings, Kris (Mick) Brogan, Greg (Judy) Maltby, Kathy (Neil) Scharmer, Steve (Jan) Maltby. Barb's children, William (Sonja) Matthews, Kerry (Isaac), and grandchildren, Adelynn and Nora Marsolek; and many family and friends. Jeff was a lifetime scouter, avid volunteer and leader with Kaposia District of North Star BSA. Jeff loved being outdoors working to educate children about science in nature and he had a passion for flying airplanes. His memorial will be held at 949 Sciota Trail, Randolph, MN 55065 on Saturday December 3rd, 2011, 2PM-4PM with a service at 2:30 PM. http://www.legacy.com/

One Day

2011-12-01T10:56:00.005-06:00

The Power in One Day ~

I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection to bring glory to God.

Colossians 4: Continue earnestly in prayer, being vigilant in it with thanksgiving.

Romans 15: 5, 6 ~ Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus, that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

John 17: 17-19 ~ Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I also have sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth.

Psalm 91:1 ~ He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall remain stable and fixed under the shadow of the Almighty.

Psalm 25:5 ~ ...guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior and my hope is in you all day long.

Our days are filled with so much activity & busyness. We, at times, just go about our day doing our thing and often times miss our opportunity to see God at work - to witness first hand His power. Each day holds "His Power" at hand for us to witness & experience. He Is!

~A life given to Jesus.

~A young woman touched because you noticed her new hair style.

~A cashier who is so appreciative that you acknowledged her working on Thanksgiving.

~The loss of a good friend, who touched so many lives because 'he cared'.

~A hug and 'I love you' from your dad - for the 1st time that you could ever remember.

~An answered prayer that testifies to God's greatness as only He could have brought the healing - the miracle.

What does one day hold for you?

Promises & Praises...

2011-11-24T09:08:00.004-06:00

Psalm 66:19 God hath attended to the voice of my prayer.

I love God's Word. It is so full of hope, encouragement, and power. It tells of His love to me -- to everyone. It brings truth into my spirit. With truth comes freedom -- freedom to be who God created me to be.

God has attended to the voice of my prayers.

On this Thanksgiving Day I praise Him because HE IS! I have so many blessings, so much to be thankful for. They are from my heavenly Father, the God of this universe, who is in control of my circumstances. I give Him the Glory & Praise. When I wanted to give up on God because I couldn't see a way out of our circumstances -- my Lord heard my cries, reached down and brought me encouragement -- through His Word, through various little miracle 'God-incidences', through friends, family and much prayer. He would not let me 'give up'.

Praise The Lord! God has attended to the voice of my prayers!

See God's love & blessings bestowed on you today - no matter where you are in life.
Blessings to you on this Thanksgiving Day!

Yes To God

2011-09-08T14:32:00.007-05:00

Hi friends,

Need some encouragement today? Click here on this link.

You'll go to Lysa TerKeurst's website where you can watch the webcast, "Yes to God". It aired on Tuesday, however, it's available to watch on demand thru 11pm CST tonight. Lysa TerKeurst and Anne Voskamp both share their thoughts and insights to encourage us in our daily walk with the Lord and in saying "Yes to God". Lysa has written a book entitled, "What Happens When Women Say Yes to God?". Anne has also written a book entitled, "One Thousand Gifts".

On a personal note...I almost missed it. I was thinking...I've heard it all before...what more could be said that I haven't heard...I just don't have the time being at work, etc.

I listened to that still small voice...and...said... Yes, to God.

God is faithful. When we say "yes", He fills us. Encouragement. Refreshing joy. Confidence. Freedom.

Say "yes" to Him. Enjoy! Love, Jodie

Freedom Friday

2011-07-01T10:47:00.012-05:00

Today is the Friday going into the weekend of July 4th celebrations -- Freedom Friday!!

May your celebrations be festive & enjoyable as you reflect on the freedoms our country, the United States of America, is built on. Blessings!! ~Jodie

Where's Jodie? & SSMT Day

2011-06-22T10:57:00.012-05:00

Hi my bloggy friends~

Yes, it's been a while since my last post. I am here. The days come and go by so fast...filled with lots of activities, daily routines, challenges, and answered prayers!

The Lord is showing me much as I read His word and reflect on it. He continues to fill my days with His faithfulness and greatness as I sit in awe over His love for me. One of my favorite devotionals to read daily is Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. I also receive an on-line daily devotional from Proverbs 31 Ministries which the Lord continually uses to open my spiritual eyes with. My newest on-line devotional is from David Wilkerson Today. David Wilkerson passed away in April. He's the author of The Cross and the Switchblade, which is an awesome testimony of transformation in the lives of some New York gang members. David Wilkerson Ministries continues to publish his writings - past published and those not published. From reading his devotionals, I know he was a man of God who had a tremendous amount of faith -- you know he spent time in the Word and listening to the Holy Spirit. In his obedience to God and stepping out in faith, transformation occurred in the lives of many. The Lord has been ministering to me on a deeper level with regards to unwavering faith & trust, believing the Lord will make a way. We are to go to Him first with everything, not worrying or fretting, but knowing He's got it under His control.

This brings me to my June 15th SSMT verse.
Jeremiah 6:16 (NKJ) "For the Lord says: Stand in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths, where the good way is, and walk in it; Then you will find rest for your souls."

Some versions say 'stand in the crossroads' and 'ask for the ancient paths' . This verse caught my attention as Grant & I are at a crossroad. We are looking at possible foreclosure for our house. In the short version of this journey, the Lord is asking us to trust completely in His provisions for us. This is not about 'the house' it's about our walking in unwavering faith believing our God knows the outcome and we are not to worry or fret. We have tried our 'own' way of fixing this, but, it wasn't His way. Do we choose to follow His way or our way? The ancient paths refer to the ways of God -- prayer and obedience to what He shows us. He is asking us to cry out to Him with our requests, in thanksgiving. It's all to His glory!!

Isaiah 12:2 "Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; 'For Yah, the Lord, is my strength and song; He also has become salvation.' "

Blessings on your day ~ Jodie

Freedom Friday and more...

2011-04-15T15:21:00.010-05:00

Hi Everyone, Today is Friday -- Freedom Friday and also SSMT Day! My verse for today is Psalm 86:11 "Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name." (NIV) Oh, Jesus, how I need an undivided heart to follow hard after you to learn your ways vs. my ways. Also, this Jesus girl is taking a 5-day Journey with Jesus. Making an extra effort to focus my attention on Jesus for the next week. Read about it on Lysa TerKeurst's website. Join me as we travel to depths unknown. Blessings on your day! ~Jodie

SSMT Verse Day - Verse Six

2011-03-16T14:57:00.004-05:00

Hi my Friends ~
March 15th is Siesta Scripture Memory Team, Verse 6 Day. Today's actually the 16th and I completely missed blogging March 1st on verse 5, so, today I'll cover both verses.

Beth Moore is hosting this on her LPM blog, where you can read up on it if this is something you'd like to do to get God's word in your heart. It's great to have a group of 4,000+ 'sisters/siestas' to be accountable to along with writing them on our 3x5 index cards. I just went to Walgreens and bought plain 3x5 index cards that were already bound together. It's small enough that I can take it with me in my purse. I plan on making it fancy with some added 'bling'. My verses are:

March 1st, Verse #5: 2 Samuel 15:22 Go ahead, march on.

March 15th, Verse #6: Proverbs 31:26 She speaks with wisdom and faithful insturction is on her tongue. (NIV)

Enjoy your day! Blessings ~ Jodie

Tell A Friend Tuesdays - Week Four

2011-03-15T16:18:00.011-05:00

Hi my bloggy Friends,

Today is Tuesday - "Tell a Friend Tuesday".

It's Week 4 of the Made To Crave webcast re-runs. If you haven't tapped in yet to listen, give it a try today. http://www.madetocrave.org/ It is running on-demand up to 6am Wednesday EST. Lysa TerKuerst, author of the Made To Crave book, has an awesome teaching on "lifting up our shield of faith". Lysa and her guests offer encouragement that is not only applicable to food cravings but other life struggles, as well.

Crave God -- today!

Blessings ~ Jodie

Freedom Fridays

2011-02-25T15:39:00.010-06:00

Hi Friends ~ I received this picture and just had to post it! It's so funny, but yet, it so speaks of freedom. To be a kid again - not caring what anyone thinks, along with possibly wearing underpants on my head (LOL) - to being God's kid stepping out and doing what He's called me to do -
Yes! that is freedom!

Nothing screams WEEKEND better than underpants on your head...
Rock On!!! It is Friday!!!!

Happy Weekend...let your hair hang down, or, better yet, wear something fun! Blessings! Jodie

"Tell a Friend Tuesdays" - Week One

2011-02-22T13:00:00.010-06:00

Hi my Friends ~
Being that today is "Tell a Friend Tuesday" have I got something to tell you. Lysa TerKeurst of Proverbs 31 Ministries has authored a book titled, "Made to Crave". It's not a 'diet' book. It's a book that shares her struggle of loosing and keeping lost weight off and how, by filling the cravings we were made with, with God more instead of food, her weight has stayed off. With the release of her book, she helped host 6 weeks of "Made to Crave" live web casts. They were filled with teaching, nutrition information, testimonies, and lots of encouragement. Those have ended, however, every Tuesday for the next 6 weeks - starting today - they will be re-run on demand. Go to Lysa's blog for more info. Go to www.MadetoCrave.org to watch the web cast.

Enjoy some good encouragement! Crave God Today!!
Blessings ~ Jodie

SSMT DAY

2011-02-16T09:21:00.011-06:00

Hi Friends ~
February 15th is Siesta Scripture Memory Team, Verse 4 Day. Hosted over at Beth Moore's Living Proof blog. A whole lot of 'Siestas' are memorizing scriptures this year. So on the 1st and 15th of each month I choose a scripture to memorize. We have these 'fancy' little books with 3x5 cards where we write our scripture in and then comment on the LPM blog with our name, city, and scripture we're are memorizing. By writing them down in our 'fancy' book or 3x5 cards they can be easily accessible to pull out and memorize at any time and then we are 'armed' for any attacks the enemy might try to put on us. The blog is a good accountability tool and plus there's a "party" at the end - I love a good party! I started with the Jan 15th post - so I have 3 verses down.

Feb 15th Verse: Luke 1:37 For with God nothing will be impossible. (NKJ)

There are over 4,000 who signed in yesterday with a verse - wow! Here's the LPM blog link to check it out - click here. Here is a picture of Beth showcasing the '2011 Siesta' 3x5 booklet. Having a 'fancy' booklet helps make it fun to hide God's word in my heart.

Blessings on your day today! ~Jodie

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-14T17:03:00.007-06:00

Happy Valentines Day Everyone! Today is one of my favorite days of the year. This picture of my man and I was taken last night at a 30th anniversary surprise celebration for our Pastor and his wife. Yes, that is an unbrella in my hair - you had to be there!

I wrote a Valentines Day poem a few years back and wanted to share that today as well. We are the apple of God's eye and Jesus is our valentine gift to us from God. Blessings! ~Jodie

Reflections From A Heart

What can we say about a day?
That sets apart celebrations from the heart?

As we watch and play,
People say, "I love you" this day.
Love notes, flowers, chocolates and gifts
Are people amiss?

For you see this thing called Love
Is sent to us from our Heavenly Father above.
Sent so we can truly know
A Fathers Love - not woe.

For a heart beats - not just because -
Created with a purpose that was
Fearfully and wonderfully formed from His glove,
It's a masterpiece of perfection - a masterpiece of His love.

Physical or spiritual - only God knows our heart,
Is it chained, lonely, sad - at the end of its' rope?
Is it unchained and free - singing songs of hope?

It's our spiritual heart that desires - longs to be filled,
As we search, seek and find - we are now stilled.
It's not the things of this world that quench our innermost thirst,
But trust, hope and faith work with putting Him first.

So trust in the Lord with all of your heart,
Lean not on your own understanding, will be a good start.
In all of your ways acknowledge Him,
and the light of the Lord will not be dim.

You see my friend God wants you to truly know,
You are God's valentine - a masterpiece from His heart
Love sent from God, never to depart.

So what can we say about Valentines Day?
It's a day of celebrations - hearts happy and gay.
Filled with red Roses and Violets of blue,
It's a day of the heart that says, "I love you".
~~Writted by Jodie McLagan

One light bulb short...

2010-12-01T16:20:00.005-06:00

This morning I was in the bathroom getting ready for work. Just lately this has become an issue as we are 3 bulbs short of a full light fixture...we have no light above our sink as the fixture needs some desperate repair. So, I'm standing in front of the mirror trying to look pretty with just a light from the hallway - not working that great for me, so, I decide to also use the light that's attached to the fan above the shower/bath. Well, more light brought my eyes to a size bigger than they are...what I seen before me was not my pretty face, but, how dirty the bathroom had become. The light opened my eyes to see the dirt...not only the dust 'elephants' but even the little bits of dust that, in the dark, you just don't see.

Well, in my pondering of this, there is a lesson.

Isn't that what happens when the light of Christ shines in our life - the 'dirt' of sin is exposed. Things that we didn't know as sin are now exposed to us as sin. 'Stuff' hidden in the dark corners of our heart is now under the light of Christ.

Psalm 119:130 "The entrance of your words gives light; It gives understanding to the simple."
Psalm 119:105 "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path."

So what do we do now that the 'dirt' of sin is exposed?

We get clean.

Just as I let the soap & water wash away the dirt in my bathroom, we are to let the water of the Word of Christ fill our hearts and wash us clean. As we sit under the Light of Christ, confessing & receiving, we become clean.

Take a bath -- let the water of the Word wash over you. Enjoy all He has for you today!
~Jodie

Only You, Lord...

2010-10-28T14:29:00.010-05:00

...can understand the pain others are going through
...can know how to help when I can't
...can be the Rock to lean on
...can be the lap I climb up into
...can be the one who 'hears' my cry
...can know the answer when I'm all out of answers

Psalm 34: 7-8 The angel of the Lord encamps 'round about them that fear Him and delivers them. Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him!

I am a receptionist and answer phone calls coming into our main switchboard. I work at a company within the mortgage industry. At times I get overwhelmed by the 'cry' I hear within people's voices for help with their mortgage - they need someone to listen to them, to hear what their need is so they do not loose their homes. It seems they are at the end of their rope.

What is a little 'o receptionist to do?

A little 'o receptionist who knows - only You, Lord have the answers!

All I can do is offer them my ears to hear, my voice to soothe, point them in the direction that should help, and pray. Pray that the Lord, who answers all calls for help, would help get them to where they need to go. And as I release their phone call, I release them to You...

...only You, Lord.

I trust...

2010-04-15T07:08:00.016-05:00

Psalm 119:45 I trust in your word.

Lord, do I really believe what you say is truth?

Until the other day, I thought I really believed His word as truth. Then something happened to cause my faith to falter. Circumstances brought questions of "why" and "how" to my God. Worry and unbelief started to come - it brought me to a place of almost being comatose. I tried to seek words of encouragement. Nothing seemed to satisfy. Then God intervened. It was a God moment. Nothing circumstantial. Because I open mail at my job and because we get a lot of junk mail that's thrown away and because a piece of junk mail came from a ministry I opened it before I was going to throw it. There it was - a CD titled, "He'll Lift You Up". I listened. My spirit soaked in God's word that says He will deliver me, He will rescue me, I will be lifted up.

His word is truth -- as if Jesus himself is right here in person speaking to you. He led me to these words...

Psalm 18:2 The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock in whom I take refuge; my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. (NASB)

Psalm 113:7-9 He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap, to make them sit with princes, the princes of His people. He makes the barren woman abide in the house as a joyful mother of children. Praise the Lord! (NASB)

...I was being lifted up from the pit I had been in. That evening our women's bible study group met. More words of truth came as they each shared scriptures on His rest, His peace, His patience, and His compassion. It was as if He had orchestrated each woman's specific word study for me. I was in awe of His love - for me.

My spirit was encouraged. My faith was built up. Yes, His word is true. His promises are for me. I am His daughter, whom He delights in!

The next morning I open my devotional, Streams in the Desert (L.B. Cowman), and God had this to share...

Streams in the Desert by L.B.Cowman
The strength of our faith is in direct proportion to our level of belief that God will do exactly what He has promised. Faith has nothing to do with feelings, impressions, outward appearances, nor the probability of improbability of an event. If we try to couple these things with faith, we are no longer resting on the Word of God, because faith is not dependent on them. Faith rests on the pure Word of God alone. And when we take Him at His Word, our hearts are at peace.

Trust brings us to a place of rest, peace, patience and freedom.

Today I choose to rest in the arms of my Heavenly Daddy, to trust. My heart is at peace and my spirit free!

Do you trust, really trust God's word? If you struggle, picture Jesus himself standing/sitting right there with you as you read His word - that adds a whole new dimension to devotional time. Ask the Holy Spirit to breath life into God's word as you're reading - He will. He wants us to trust, really trust.

Be blessed - be free today!
Jodie

He's just a phone call away....

2010-01-28T17:33:00.005-06:00

Jeremiah 33:3 Call to me and I will answer you and show you many things...

This scripture keeps coming up in various places. So, I then say, ok, Lord what are You trying to say to me.

Call Me

Call you, Lord?

Yes, Me - I want you to call to Me.

And then...

I will answer you and I will show you many things...

I almost believe He is daring me. If not daring, then wooing me by His Spirit only because I so often forget to call Him, talk to Him - first. I usually call a good friend who knows God's word or who is a strong prayer warrior or who can bring comfort.

Why not call Him?

He longs for that simple call so He can listen, comfort, show me what He has to say, and cover me with His words of prayer. He is my Daddy - the one who has put His signature on my heart - my life. He looks with affection upon His daughter and He is jealous for my attention - my call.

He promises to pick up the phone and answer my call. He wants to talk my ear off - to tell me all sorts of stuff. Many things - many treasures. For me. Yes, me His daughter whom He loves.

Words from a song, "You just call out my name and you know wherever I am I'll coming running to see you again...".

If you haven't called Him in a while - call Him now. Just pick up the phone - He'll answer. He delights in hearing your voice.

Sweet conversations....Jodie

Part 2

2010-01-05T16:42:00.007-06:00

Back to our activity filled days... the 31st ended with a movie and cheer to the new year. The next day we discovered our basement laundry area filled with backed up sewer water due to a huge clog caused by tree roots - surprise! We basically had a small pond in part of the basement. I didn't know whether to grab a paddle or run away. My next thought was, "oh Larry (cat) you probably need your cat box to go potty". So, I "swam" and saved the cat box and our weekend was literally "filled" to the brim with hours of cleanup, etc.

In looking back at our New Year's surprise, I'm thinking, "ok, what can I learn from this?". I believe the Lord is saying we need to take care of the "roots". Whatever has taken root in your life, heart that could cause you to "run a muck", has to be cleaned out. We use drain cleaners to clean the small clogs, but, they can become huge clogs if we continue to put junk down the drain that shouldn't go down -- just like our hearts, our lives. If we continue to put the bad stuff - the sin stuff - in without washing it down and cleansing it out with the Word of God and his forgiveness, our hearts clog up, and, before you know it we've "run a muck" and our lives are a mess.

Our basement is clean - washed with bleach. If you are finding yourself "clogged up" and "in a mess" spiritually, emotionally, or with just life - turn to Jesus. He is waiting to wash you with His blood, forgive you, love you and make you whole. He loves you so.

1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Unclogged and free ~ Jodie

Moving Forward...One Step at a Time

2010-01-05T15:17:00.016-06:00

Welcome 2010 and Happy New Years Everyone!

Last year is history. Ahead of us is a new year...365 days of fun-filled, action-packed, why-is-this-happening, glory-filled, orchestrated-by-God kind of days!

We are already 5 days into the new year and, so far, it's been action-packed in my world. I'll get back to the action-packed activities tomorrow in part 2 of this post.

Isaiah 43:18 Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.

This is one of my favorite verses - the Lord keeps bringing it back to me to dwell on. The Lord is asking me to forget the former things - the good and the bad. He is asking me to not dwell on the heartaches and the "whys". He is asking me to not dwell on "how good" I thought our life was when we had two full incomes. Because, He, my God - my Daddy - the Lover of my soul, is doing a new thing.

Yes, He is. It is His Word. It is His Promise.

If I am consumed in the past how am I ever going to perceive the "new thing" that He is doing?

When I read, "do you not perceive it" I picture the side of a person's face turned, with their hand cocking their ear, listening for His voice. Then I picture scanning the horizon, looking for - expecting - the "new thing" God is bringing.

What is this "new thing"?

He is making "a way" in the desert and streams in the wasteland - my desert, my wasteland. Where I didn't think there was a way, or a road, my God is making one. Not only is it one road and one tiny stream, but it will be a river. Where I thought I was in this desert & wasteland with no way out and all by myself, He is making a way and bringing others to come along side me.

All things are possible in Christ.

I don't know what it all looks like today, but I do know His ways are higher than my ways.

I have faith. I have hope. I have Christ, my rock and foundation.

As long as my eyes & ears are expecting the "new things" I will move forward...one stream, one road, and one step at a time.

It's Friday, it's Christmas AND Jesus is Coming!

2009-12-24T15:39:00.014-06:00

Hi Everyone - Merry Christmas!!

It's Christmas Eve and I am at work - yes, the company I work at is open all day, so, being at the reception desk I am duty-bound to be here. I have not been happy about this...pretty much talking & complaining about this for most of the week. Prior to the company's reorg, it would close at noon on Christmas Eve. So, how could a company expect employees to be here working when there are preparations to be done, and how am I going to fit church in, all this "stuff" to do, etc. Needless to say, I was not focused on Jesus and what I could do while I'm here, sitting at work, no one else around.

Until...God got a hold of my heart today....

Reading today's, Encouragement For Today, devotional from Proverbs 31 Ministries put it back in focus for me. I really got excited -- something clicked for me! This is my time to focus on Jesus. We will be hosting Jesus in our home - it's Christmas!

We are celebrating His arrival!

He is coming...to our homes...to our hearts!!

Christmas is a party for Him, our King!

In the last minute "to dos" take time to not only usher Jesus in to His celebration, but, sit at His feet and allow yourself to be "wrapped" in His love-gift for you. Revel at Who He Is, dwell in His Presence, sense His Peace and proclaim His Joy. We are so honored -- our King is coming! Our King IS coming!! Let us not forget or ignore Him because of the days distractions.

Joy to the world the Lord has come!
Christmas blessings ~ Love, Jodie & Grant

Freedom Friday

2009-07-10T06:25:00.002-05:00

I do not know who wrote the following, but it was sent to me via email about two years ago when I was facing a possible layoff at the company I worked for. It said so much to me at the time, that I kept it and continue to read it, passing it on to others who could use some encouragement.

'May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others. May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.
May you be content with yourself just the way you are. Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us.'

Peace, trust, contentment, and knowing you are loved by your "daddy" in heaven...these are the stuff that help us to be free...

Be blessed and be free today! ~Jodie

Streams in the wasteland...

2009-07-08T00:17:00.001-05:00

Lay aside those 'things' which encumber you - keeping you from who God wants you to be.

I am on a quest to lay aside all the 'stuff' that has cluttered my house. I am one of those people who loves to hang on to 'things' - because it reminds me of something good or of someone whom I dearly treasure OR because I just might use it 'someday'. Well, for the most part 'someday' never really happen and all this stuff just piles and piles and piles up. Now, mind you, they are very, very neat piles. I have a little stack here, a little stack there, a pile in this corner and a pile in that corner, a pile in the living room, a stack in the kitchen. They kinda creep up on me. I think, oh, I'll put it here and get to it in a couple of days - a month later I'm totally overwhelmed and don't know where to start in to clean it up. I then get the very noticeable piles - the ones in my way - cleaned up, but then don't get to the little stacks that are in a corner. I seem to never get to those piles. I've had the same piles of paperwork in my office for 3 years - stuff that are remnants of previously piles sorted that I have to 'deal with'. I never seem to have the extra time I know it's gonna take to handle it.

I was thinking on this a while back and the Lord showed me it's kinda like this with our hearts - our lives and sin. We deal with the obvious sin committed, confess, ask God for forgiveness, clean it out of our heart. But, then there's the little itty bitty sin or the sin that's not so obvious or the sin that we don't want to admit is there - the sin that we don't want anyone to know about or the sin we don't want to let go of because it's what we know and it's too hard and too much work to dig deep to expose the roots in order to dig it out. It's those corners of our heart that God wants to expose His light to - His word to & clean up. It's in letting go of those little piles of 'stuff' that we want to hang on to which brings us the total freedom we are seeking for.

What "stuff" is He asking you to lay aside in order for you to fully experience His freedom?

Isaiah 43:18 Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.

Sitting at the feet of Jesus on a Saturday...

2009-05-16T16:48:00.009-05:00

Have you met with God today?

Have you sat at His feet, looking into His face listening to His voice?

Have you shared your heart with your heavenly Daddy? The 'stuff' that makes you hurt and the 'stuff' that makes you happy.

He's waiting - He's listening - He's speaking.

Red Envelope Day

2009-03-30T11:03:00.010-05:00

On March 31st join me and others in stepping out to "Be a Voice for Life" by sending red envelopes to President Obama.

Here's what to do...get a red envelope. They can be found in your extra envelope supply from home, any office supply store, party supply store or Kinkos.

On the front side, address it to:

President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave N.W.
Washington, DC 20500

On the back side, write the following message.

This envelope represents one child who died because of an abortion. It is empty because the life that was taken is now unable to be a part of our world.

Send your envelope on Tuesday, March 31st. I believe this is one way those of us against abortion can "do more", "not be silent, and "be a voice for life" to our President and the world.

The blog site, Surrending The Secret, gives a little more detailed info and is an awesome place to go to for post-abortion resources, healing, and help. http://surrenderingthesecret.blogspot.com/
Remember to pray for President Obama and his leadership team. With prayer and action, we can make a difference. Our God can soften and turn their hearts towards Him.

Jeremiah 32:27: "Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?"
Luke 1:37: "For with God nothing shall be impossible."

Stepping out for Him today ~ Jodie

Freedom Filled Fridays

2009-03-06T08:37:00.003-06:00

Happy Friday. It's a day of play for me. I'm attending a woman's conference: A Day Set Apart for Women. The keynote speakers are Carol Kent and Lysa Terkeurst. The conference theme is - Restore.

Psalm 51:12 Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and sustain me with a willing spirit.

I'm looking forward to what the Lord has to share with me through His word today. I'm also excited to meet Lysa in person - maybe she'll be wearing those cute & comfy shoes she has written about. Her blog link is at "my favorite road stops".

Enjoy your Friday! It's a day unto the Lord.
Jodie

It is a New Year!

2009-01-10T10:08:00.004-06:00

Happy New Year wishes to everyone!

I apologize for being gone so long from writing. Life has happened at the McLagan household. Good things and very challening things. However, God continues to show Himself to us. His faithfulness, grace, and mercy are unfailing!!

I miss my writing and definitely did not want another day to go by without typing something.

I'm off to a day of play - faithbooking. It's scrapbooking with an added dimension - journaling. I love it and I really enjoy the day. Tina is our Faithbooking Diva. Her blog site, Stones of Remembrance, is listed on my favorites - feel free to check it out.

Bye for now... Jodie

And The Winner Is...

2008-11-02T12:32:00.026-06:00

CWO announced the winner for the Girl's Get-A-Way cruise.
http://www.christianwomenonline.net/Contest_Winner.html Christine at http://cvanwey.blogspot.com/ . Please read her story - it's a faith story that speaks of God's grace and hope and how God brings women together to hold each other up. Congratulations to Christie and her friend Misty! They will be blessed to meet each other and join other women on a fun-filled get-a-way cruise to Mexico.

Debbie & I certainly had a fun-filled afternoon "dreaming" of our get-a-way while we sun-bathed in October on my deck in our swim suites...
Deb, thanks for the memories - awesome 'Kodak' moments!!

Jodie

Freedom Filled Fridays...

2008-10-16T16:08:00.022-05:00

Friday - one of the best day's of the week. Those of us who work outside the home look forward to Friday as we know the weekend is a coming! Freedom from "going" to work. Freedom to sleep in. Freedom to meander through a Saturday. Freedom to be with family & friends. Freedom to worship. Freedom to just be. Two days where we are not confined to a desk in an office.

With these thoughts of freedom, I decided to blog on Fridays, using the title of "Freedom Filled Fridays". I thought this would help me blog more consistently - with a goal in mind to somewhat keep me on task.

What does "freedom filled" mean to you? What would a "freedom filled Friday" look like in your world?

I started my blog so I could write about the freedoms I am experiencing - physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I am learning to give those things which have weighed me down, to God. My Jesus does not want me to be encumbered with "stuff". He is the burden bearer - not me. He stands ready to take those things from us - we just got to hand it over. Sometimes, I just plain forget and then He gently reminds me when I'm overwhelmed. As I've been learning to give God my "stuff" and fill that void with Him - His Word, His Presence, His Praise - I am being healed and restored to be the woman God called me to be when I was conceived - even before I was conceived. I am being set free! I am running the race!!

Hebrews 12:1,2 Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside very weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

If you haven't yet experienced "freedom" in Christ - that restoration "freedom" from your "baggage" that has kept you ensnared to a life of guilt, shame, and hopelessness, then take a step and grab a hold of it now - today! Forgiveness and grace offered to me - to you, by God through the death of His Son, Jesus. Confessing your sins, believing in the name of Jesus Christ, accepting His forgiveness and receiving His grace are the 1st steps to "freedom" you will not experience through anything or anyone else. It is taking that first step of faith which brings you into your freedom run...

Romans 10:9-11 ...that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the Scripture says, "Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame".

Free in Christ ~ Jodie

All Dressed Up...

2008-10-15T17:29:00.050-05:00

and no where to go! Yes that's me and my aunt (in the picture on the left) all dressed in our swimming attire in October in Minnesota on my deck! It definitely was not hot and sunny! Can't believe I talked her into it! You could also say we were a few sand pepples short of a beach!

Well, this is serious business - especially when "free" and "contest" are in the same sentence!

Yes, we are from Minnesota, land of 10,000 lakes that freeze in the winter. We love our hotdishes (comfort food) in the winter and get plenty of exercise shoveling the piles of snow and washing the piles of laundry from all that winter clothing we must have!

Yes, we NEED a vacation!

Help us trade in our boots for flip-flops; snow for sand; cold ice for warm, sunny breezes. Just thinking about all that fun... girl talk, swim parties by the pool, exploring every part of the ship, pampering, espresso coffee, sailing the ocean, blue sky, relaxing in the sun....aahhhh, take me away. AND it's with our girlfriends - how much better can it get?

Take us away on the Girl's Get-A-Way Cruise! From Minnesota to Mexico - here we come!

Jodie and Debbie (The Northern Girls)

Freedom Filled Days...

2008-09-11T10:14:00.022-05:00

Hi Everyone - Greetings & Happy Thursday...

It's amazing how "life" fills your days. Before you know it 3 weeks have passed and you wonder where the time has gone and what filled the days.

I'm getting somewhat "tripped up" with posting on my blog because I haven't yet downloaded pictures from my camera. Somehow, I've got it stuck in my head I need pictures so my blog and writing will be more interesting. Other fellow bloggers do not always post pictures - so, it's just this "thing" that I need to get over and just move on with my writing...writing is what it's all about. There is freedom in them words! It's not that I don't have pictures--my camera is bursting with captured "Kodak" moments. That just means you'll all be looking at an album when I get them loaded into the computer...hmmm...a reason to take a break, grab a cup of your favorite tasting, yummy coffee!

Do you remember what you were doing the morning of Sept 11th?

I do...my sister & I had just parked the car to come into work and the announcement came over the radio - I could hardly believe what I was hearing. Today is a day to remember those that lost their lives because of the horrific acts of terrorism played out on the United States. We should never forget what took place! This website is set up as a memorial: http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2001/memorial/index.html . It lists all the names of those who died that day. If you feel led to pray, pick a name and pray for that person's family. Today would be especially hard as they remember last moments, words said (not said) with their loved ones.

We are so blessed in the USA! Our freedom is a gift. It is envied by many and hated by many--around the world. This freedom we enjoy as citizens of the US has been fought and paid for with men's lives. Another man died for your freedom--freedom from enslavement to sin and all it's entanglements--Jesus Christ. Your life has been fought, bought, and paid for by Jesus' death & resurrection! This freedom from sin gives us the right to be called sons and daughters of our Heavenly Father - joint heirs of His Kingdom.

Let us remember! Enjoy your Freedom!

So, if the Son sets you free, you will be fee indeed! John 8:36

I am overwhelmed with joy in the Lord my God! For He has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. I am like a bridegroom in his wedding suit or a bride with her jewels. Isaiah 61:19

A Sister who is free in Christ ~ Jodie

BIG Step! Smile & say "cheese"...

2008-08-20T16:39:00.012-05:00

My first "official" picture post. I'm not digital savvy yet - just getting used to my camera. I've taken some great pictures and will have lots to post - just got to figure out how to load them to the computer. I will be on a roll then.

This is Tina (on the right). Don't we look cute? You can access Tina's blog at http://www.tinavega.blogspot.com/. She hosts a monthly scrapbooking crop called "Faithbooking" (another passion of mine) which is how I met her. I thoroughly enjoy the Faithbooking crops. We are learning to do more with our pictures than slap them in a book - we are learning to journal the thoughts and ideas which capture those "Kodak moments". By journaling in the albums, legacies are left for our families. Tina has an awesome testimony and I love her enthusiasm, creativity, humor, and the insight she brings to God's word. She is also building her photography skills - she's taken some great pictures, experimenting with different angles and lighting, etc. I was visiting with her on Sunday and asked her to take a few pictures of me in my car for my post and she also took this one.

I'm going to do some fiddling with the camera. Until tomorrow...

Jodie

"Stepping Out" - Happy 1st Month Blog Anniversary!

2008-08-19T14:19:00.016-05:00

Wow, how time does fly! It's already been one month since I published my 1st blog post and I haven't posted since. I was really excited to get my blog out there into "blog land" and then got cold feet and somewhat of a "writers block". I have to admit that I've been somewhat intimated by the thought of others reading my thoughts and also started comparing my blog site to others - their sites are more pretty, picturesque, etc.

Well, God is so good to a person who is directionally impaired at times.

I was reading one of the posts (July 27th) on Tina's blog, http://www.tinavega.blogspot.com/,

where she was talking about being more than just a "godly wallflower". That in spite of our fears & discomfort, to actually trust the Lord and follow through in what He's directing you to do. He will lead & guide as you "step out" in faith from your comfort zone. She ended with this scripture in Exodus 4:12 - The Lord said to Moses, "Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say." This scripture spoke volumes to me. In sharing more of my "writers block" with Tina last Sunday, I was able to talk through some of my fears and what she basically shared with me is that we are all unique and our styles are different. Being different, what I have to say will minister to someone in a unique way from what another person would say. The thing to remember is the "why" to your blog. Why am I blogging... to share and, hopefully, encourage others on in their faith. I just need to be faithful to ask the Lord what is on His heart to share, to put my fingers to the keyboard, and He will fill the words.

Ok, so today I'm reading a few of my favorite blogs and I come to KelliGirl's, http://awesomegodordinarygirl.blogspot.com/, post and am blown away because God is, again, leading (telling) me to "step out". She talks about her writing procrastination and choosing to dedicate her writing to God. She captured a statement from another writer's blog which got my attention, that even though the road as a writer can be difficult, if we have a God-given talent to write, we must use it. We have no choice. God demands nothing less. She referenced Matthew 25 where Jesus teaches his disciples about the parable of the talents.

Yes, God, you now have my full attention!

I have been given this wonderful gift of writing. Not everyone can put down in words what is in their heart (or their head). By not using my gift, I am not "being" all of who God created me to be.

What are your gifts and talents? My dad's favorite discussion topic is discovering what your gifts and talents are that you've been given - they are what comes natural to you. Sometimes they're buried under a lot of "junk", but they are there. When God created us, he put a treasure of talents within. You have a special gift - listen to what the Lord is saying, "step out" and trust.

Jeremiah 29:11 "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 a hope and a future."

Jodie

On the Road...

2008-07-20T19:32:00.000-05:00

to blogging - finally! Yes, I have made the plunge and am now an official "blogger". My friend, Michelle, said "Jodie, you know it's real easy to set up a blog site. You can set it up and tweak it later - just do it!". Good advice - thanks Michelle! I just needed a little push and to know that it didn't need to look perfect at first. I've been contemplating this for weeks now. Part of my delay was coming up with a "title" for my blog. There are so many awesome, inspiring titles. I wanted something that would sum up in a few words and reflect the journey I've been on with the Lord - the lessons, the healing, and the love I've received through the words whispered to my heart and penned upon the lines of my journal. Oh, the Lord is good! Michelle & I went to hear Beth Moore speak at the Target Center this weekend. It was awesome! God met us in a BIG way! In her message, Between A Rock and A Hard Place, she used the words "Road To Freedom" which caught my ears and my pen. Michelle & I were discussing the message on the way home and then it clicked - that's the title of my blog. Woohoo - an answer to prayer!

So, I am here and publishing my first post - I'm pretty excited! Pictures will come later - I am not digital picture savvy yet (I have friends who are...). My desire is for this to be a vehicle of ministry - for you , for me - as the Lord leads my fingers to type what He's whispered to my heart. My prayer is that as this "Road to Freedom" is traveled, these words will bring you and I the encouragement, healing, and hope we need and the Lord offers up to us to embrace.

Good night and God Bless! Until tomorrow....
Jodie