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More than a Recipe

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

My only sibling always seemed to go the extra mile. When I called for a list of herbs in my brother’s famous roast, he replied: “Sure, Sis. I’ll get right back to you.” He didn’t just call me back. Instead, I received this beautiful, hand-written, detailed letter in my mailbox.

Always the over-achiever, Richard graduated from Goodman (MO) High School in 1968 with honors including salutatorian, Boys State, Babe Ruth championship team, and more. In the Navy, he graduated from Class 9 Communication School as the honor man and represented the Navy at the European National Pool Tournament. In the business world, he worked as a Consumer Finance Manager for finance companies and hospitals. His skill with figures pulled many hospitals out of the red.

Little brother was a great story-teller; so much so, I took most things with a grain of salt. However, later I learned many of his “tall tales” were true. One thing I could depend upon, if I had a need, he would be there for me.

He called Mother every week, regardless of where he was. After she died, he continued the Saturday night calls to me. “Sis, how is it going?” Oh, how I miss those calls.

This simple letter is one of my most prized possessions. Not for the recipe, I don’t cook. Its value is in the memories it holds. Richard took precious time and care to go the extra mile for me. God blessed me with a brother’s love that will last forever.

Click here for verses on brotherly love.

I wonder, what am I leaving for my family? for others? A house full of “stuff” or hearts filled with sweet memories of a Mom, Grandma, or Friend that loved beyond measure?

More than tangible things, I have real concerns about my spiritual legacy. But, then that’s a story for another day. Keep tuned in.

What is your most prized possession? Let me hear from you.

Hugs and prayers,

Susie

Church Conflict and God’s Amazing Grace

Helen Wall and Susie Adams and God’s Victory Bouquet

“It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.”
—Deuteronomy 31:8

For over forty years as a pastor’s wife, I was honored to serve churches in several states. And I can say, every single one was filled with strong, loving Christian men and women who never had internal conflicts. I can say that. It’s not true, but I can say it.

Click here for some exciting words from our Loving Father regarding church family.

Sweet readers, as long as we are here on earth, we will have problems, in and out of church. When there is that inevitable conflict, I believe it’s not so much whether I am right or wrong, but how my spirit is toward others.

When my husband was asked to leave one church, we had children in school and a very active, growing congregation. We took a week’s vacation and shared and prayed as a family seeking God’s will and direction. Only God’s Holy Spirit could have granted us the peace we had as we returned and continued to serve those who would do us harm. (I must say, God’s clear direction was sometimes to leave.)

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

Before leaving for vacation, we ensured everything about the church was in good order and ready for worship. I grabbed some of my favorite flowers and made a colorful altar bouquet with little thought of how God would use those flowers to speak to me when we returned.

Week after week as we grew in grace, God seemed to reveal His character and grant peace through a simple bouquet. Three lilies – Father, Son, Holy Spirit; gladiolas – I was glad… to worship; striped grasses – by His stripes we are healed; baby breath – He is the Breath of Life; roses – He died and rose again … Each week a loving Father spoke through the Victory Boquet and turned our hungry hearts toward Him.

If your heart is troubled, or you know someone struggling, meditate on these verses as you pray for one another. Allow our Father to pour out His grace and love upon you, those you love, and those who rub you the wrong way.

I love you. I care. God loves you so much more.

Drop a note if I can pray for/with you.

Hugs, Susie

The Peace of God in Vibrant Color

“Don’t worry over anything whatever; tell God every detail of your needs in earnest and thankful prayer, and the peace of God which transcends human understanding, will keep constant guard over your hearts and minds as they rest in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7 Phillips

The bid on this amazing king-size crocheted quilt (eighty beautiful squares) was $110 and no one was bidding more; until…

It was a beautiful Saturday in July when Cheryl and I decided to go to the Missouri Baptist Children’s Home annual quilt auction in Springfield. My emotions had been under the rug for some time. I missed my better half. I missed the things we looked forward to each year. I needed some encouragement.

Click here for 25 verses for the exhausted and weary.

My intentions were clear. “Cheryl, we need a play day. Let’s go to the quilt auction and enjoy their fresh fruit cobblers, get a few crafts, and see old friends. We can watch a bit of the auction for old times’ sake, but I AM NOT bidding on quilts.”

My eyes still water when I recall the many years Russell set aside $$$ for me to enjoy this annual event. I made it a personal challenge to get the bidding up on quilts that weren’t faring well. Most of the time I succeeded and dropped out before the final bid.

I always bought a few so my great-grandkids could choose one when they turned thirteen. Also, I kept a few baby quilts and full-size quilts on hand when community needs arose. But, this year I was only going to observe.

It wasn’t long before the bug bit. I grabbed a bidding card and was off and running! I came home with a beautiful stack of small quilts, lap robes, and baby quilts. Oh, yes, and this amazing crocheted piece for $140.

I do not need it. I have no idea what I will do with it! But it was NOT leaving that place for $110!

Truth? I may not have needed the quilts, but I needed the experience. I needed the excitement of being involved in something bigger than myself. I wanted to help the Children’s Home. As I look at my treasures at home, I praise God for meeting needs I didn’t know I had. I praise Him.

I napped under a colorful quilt after I got home, hugging it and praising My Father for His mercy, grace, and love.