ONE STONE AT A TIME

Read John 1:43-50 here

Excitement fills the air. Philip can hardly contain himself. Joy oozes from his face. His search for the Messiah is over. He desires to shout from the mountains... The long awaited Messiah is come! Please see for yourself the Son of God is HERE! 

CARLA MCDOUGAL
AUTHOR OF MY PRAYER CHAIR

Tears flow. Heart pounds. Philip rushes to find his friends. In the distance he sees someone resting under a fig tree. Philip dashes as quick as possible. Urgency causes his heart to beat even faster. Approaching the scene, he realizes it is Nathanael taking a midday nap. Shalom, Nathanael. Wake up! We found the Messiah, the Son of God, in Nazareth! There is not a second to waste. Come see for yourself!  

Waking from his slumber, Nathanael raises his head. In a moments notice he finds himself following Philip. Thoughts arise like, There is no way this is the Messiah. He is to come from Bethlehem, not Nazareth. This little obscure village? No way! 

Knowing Nathaneal's heart, Jesus greets him with a smile. Nathanael is caught off guard. Without thinking he says, "How do you know me?" Jesus' answer confirms it all, "I saw you under the fig tree." Nathanael immediately falls at Jesus' feet. Tears pour. Praises spew  like a springtime flood. This is Him whom our forefathers spoke of in the Torah. He stands before me! The Son of God! 

Encouragement fills Jesus' heart. His team is building One Stone at a Time. His love for His disciples grows ever so strong. Excitement is in the air. He thanks His Father for the men who will journey with Him. Sweet tears emerge.   
___________________________________________________

Imagine this moment. The birth of a new relationship. The scene could have looked totally different if Nathanael acted on his first thoughts, Nazareth is too small a town for the Messiah, the King of Kings, to come from. This has got to be a joke. Wow, he would have missed the blessing of walking side-by-side with Jesus on this earth!

What about you? Do you allow first impressions to dictate your life? Seek Him and you will find Him. Don't miss the journey God has planned for you with Jesus. As you engage in conversations with the Lord make sure to listen. He knows you inside and out. Bow at His feet and proclaim, You are the Son of God! 

CHECK OUT CARLA'S MINISTRY HERE!

CARLA IS THE AUTHOR OF THE UPCOMING BOOK "MY PRAYER CHAIR"!

GUEST WRITER WEEK - TUESDAY: CARLA

The Parenting Marathon

BY

 Carla McDougal (Author of Reflecting Him: Living for Jesus and Loving it!)

Nearing the mile marker, shock stuns my body. Another benchmark looms ahead. Is this reality or an illusion? Where did the time go? Approaching the goal seems surreal. With each breath I tell myself, I can do it. For twenty-six years I trained for this race. No stopping now!  I feel the need to rehydrate—from a physical and spiritual standpoint. Confusion clouds my mind. My stride weakens with each step. Thoughts of quitting spoil my concentration. Within seconds these words resonate within—Come on, you can do it! I recognize this inner voice of encouragement spurring me forward… the tenderness, the Lord’s perfect timing. All of a sudden, adrenaline kicks in and I pick up the pace. Reaching this mile marker ignites a sense of excitement, accomplishment, and sadness rolled into one emotion.

     

Breathing deeply I realize this leg of The Parenting Marathon is complete. The last of our four children graduated from high school and is moving on to college. Emotions pour in. The memory “recall button” seems stuck on auto play. As a mom, I fight the necessity of letting go. How can I move forward? How will this affect my everyday life? Fear of the unknown captures me like never before.
           

CARLA MCDOUGAL

In the midst of these tangled thoughts comes a soothing whisper… a sweet voice eases my confusion. Remember, my child, to lay aside every weight, and the sin, which so easily ensnares you, run with endurance the race that is set before you. But, God… No excuses, look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and now sits at the right hand of the throne of God. These words wash over me like a cleansing spring rain. In the blink of an eye my vision clears. Refocusing on God’s Word brings clarity to the goal. This drink of living water rehydrates my body, mind, and soul preparing me for what lies ahead.
            
In this moment I stand at a crossroad in the race. Do I hold back in The Parenting Marathon or embrace this new part of the course with excitement?  Without hesitation I cry out, God, I am moving forward! I don’t want to miss a moment of Your plan. I recognize I need to focus my heart, mind and soul on You. Every morning rehydrate me with Your drink of spiritual refreshment. Fuel my soul with the nourishment of Your Word. Strengthen me through the Holy Spirit; for when I am weak You are strong. Thank you for carrying me through the low places and leading me to the high roads. This Parenting Marathon is Your planned race, not mine. May I never try to run the course on my own for I know this only leads to tumbles and falls. To You belongs the glory and honor.


Some call this next leg of The Parenting Marathon—The Empty Nest. But, I choose to call it—The Place of Rest. The days of diapers, bottles, homework, carpool lines, piles of laundry, and family bedtime prayers are only memories locked away in the crevices of my mind. In all honesty, doubt and guilt are big stumbling blocks in this section of the course. Did we teach her enough about Jesus? Is she ready for the real world? How many teachable moments did I miss through the years? Oh, these questions have the potential to ignite a damaging fire if not quenched by God’s Word and prayer.

With all this said, I choose to put my trust and faith in the one who holds the key to my child’s heart—Jesus, the author and finisher of her faith. I find the more I press into prayer, the more excited I become for this next leg of The Parenting Marathon.   A shift in scenery is expected during this next stretch of the course. Rounding this corner brings some unpredictable road hazards mingled with glimpses of God’s splendor. 

At this point my role as mom changes from the Daily Discipline Sprinter to a Long Distance Prayer Runner. This phase requires consistency, a listening ear and minute-by-minute intimate conversations with the head trainer and ultimate life coach—Jesus. Knowing I am not in control releases me to trust God’s plan for her life. A sense of relief soothes my aching muscles as the light of Christ illuminates each step of the way.

Taking a deep breath, I look into my husband’s eyes. Like salve on a wound, my heart is relieved. Linked together eases the pain of change. So, arm-in-arm we embrace this next mile marker. We call upon our Life Coach, Jesus, to train us as Long Distance Prayer Runners. Immediately a spark of excitement burst into flames. Again God’s Word empowers me… Remember, my child, to lay aside every weight, and the sin, which so easily ensnares you, run with endurance the race that is set before you. No excuses, look unto Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and now sits at the right hand of the throne of God.

  

This spiritual nourishment replenishes my weary body. A second wind breathing life into God’s purpose and plan for The Parenting Marathon. Stretching my arms to the heavens I shout with joy… I surrender each one of my children to You, Jesus—The author and finisher of all of our faith. All of a sudden, I see   in the distance a brilliant colorful scene on the horizon. A rainbow connecting heaven to earth. Tears flow. A smile appears. The blessing of God’s promise received.

~ Dedicated to my daughter Carly Jo who recently graduated from Magnolia High School 

From My Heart to Yours,

Carla McDougal 

Mother of Luke, Jake, Tate and Carly Jo. (25, 24, 20, 18) 

CLICK HERE FOR CARLA'S REFLECTIVE LIFE MINISTRIES        

JOURNEY THROUGH CHANGES

A PERSONAL TESTIMONY 
by CARLA MCDOUGAL (founder of RLM*)

Overcome with emotion. Nothing prepared me for the inevitable. It seems like this Parenting Trip just started. I'm not ready to Journey through Changes. In the midst of contemplating this decision I notice a blockade ahead of me. Warning signs that say, "Entering the Danger Zone." Another sign stating, "YOU MUST EXIT NOW!"

But, I'm not prepared to Journey through Changes. Isn't this road miles in front of me? At least it seems that way. Faced with a decision, I hear a familiar, gentle voice on the radio. His words stun my heart and mind... 


"My Daughter, Changes is your only choice. If you continue down this Parenting Highway at the same speed you will eventually crash into My roadblock. I put it there for a reason. I've allowed My children to ride with you on life's highway for the first part of their lives. Now each one drives with me - alone. I need you to exit. At first, this Journey through Changes is difficult. This path takes you on a variety of twist and turns. Expect some rainy weather conditions. In the beginning the scenery is barren. Yes, like a desert. But, trust me to lead you through this next phase of the Parenting Trip. Once you Journey through Changes an oasis awaits your entrance. My plan was created before you or your children were born. Follow Me closely. Thank you for guiding and directing your children to Me for the past twenty-six years. Now, get ready for a new and fresh adventure!

CARLA MCDOUGAL  
HER OUTREACH TO WOMEN
 OF ALL BACKGROUNDS
 IS PERSONAL AND TRANSFORMATIVE 

By the way, this Parenting Trip is my road map design. Not for you to control, but me. I've allowed you to be a big part of the journey. But, with excitement your role is changing. I still need you to be in their lives, praying everyday for them to love me with all their hearts, souls and minds. For My purposes to be accomplished through each one to further My Kingdom. Thank you for deciding to Journey through Changes with me. I am proud of you. Wait until you see what's on the other side of this trek!"


All of a sudden, without thinking I take the exit ramp to Changes. Tears flow as I leave  this part of the Parenting Trip. This highway is all I have known. My hearts cry is to follow God's road map. I don't want to divert off the path. But, my emotions run in all directions. With hands on the wheel and my heart lifted in praise, I cry out to God...


"I never expected the Journey Through Changes to be so difficult. Jesus, I need you more and more each day. Help me follow You with my everything. You are the author and finisher of our family. You love my children more than I do. I trust you completely. I know this part of the Parenting Trip is completed and you have a fresh adventure ahead. Help me not live in the past, but focus on Your road map of directions - Your Word. Thank you for allowing me to mother these four children and for the blessing of praying for them on rest of life's path. Also, help me not miss the scenery on this Journey to Changes. I praise You for the rest stops along the way called, Grace and Mercy. A place to refuel and refresh when needed. I praise you as I take this exit ramp in life"


In a moments notice my attitude takes a turn. A smile emerges. Excitement ignites. The Holy Spirit activates a yearning in my heart. Once again I am reminded, "Life is not about me, but all about Jesus!" Humbleness envelops my soul. My eyes rest on 3 John 4, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the Truth." 
I am ready. Ready to Journey through Changes!

CHECK OUT CARLA'S MINISTRY/WEBSITE HERE

*Reflective Life Ministries

PRAYER IMPRINT

A CHALLENGE TO PRAY

Far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord 
by failing to pray for you. 1 Samuel 12:23 


I will pray for you!


How many times have you said these words? Do you actually follow through? Or has it become a statement used as a conversation piece to make someone feel better? How serious is this phrase to God?

by Carla McDougal

As you read the verse above who does Samuel say we sin against when we fail to pray for one another? The Lord! God calls us to pray for each other, lift one another up, and to cry out in pray for the needs of others. This was instilled in Samuel at an early age. Hannah, his mother, was unable to conceive a child. She cried out to God for a son and made a vow to Him...


If You will only look upon your servant's misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life. 1 Samuel 1:11


God heard her cry. Answered her prayer. And, she followed through with her promise to God. Samuel's mother's example left a "Prayer Imprint" on his heart. Throughout the scriptures we find example after example of Samuel praying for others. I love the fact that when he says he will pray, he did it right then... read 1 Samuel 7:5.


Understanding the importance of following through with "I will pray for you" is the beginning. Now, do you believe your prayers make a difference? Do you mean what you pray or do you just say the words out of duty? Get ready to be blown away...


Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. James 5:16


Pray for each other so that - you - may be healed? Praying for others heals me? How? This word, healed, in the Greek actually means, to make whole; to free from errors and sins. Wow! I never thought of that before. When I take the time to pour out my heart on behalf of others, I am affected. A prayer imprint is forever embedded in my heart. My relationship with Jesus deepens. Oh Lord, remind me to pray for others!


Challenge for the (rest of this) Week... When you tell someone that you will pray for them... Do It! Follow through with that commitment to pray. In fact, here is a Double Challenge... when you tell someone you will pray do it right then... in the grocery store, on the phone, at work, at church, during exercise class, in the yard. I find if I pray right then I am more sensitive to the Holy Spirit's nudge to pray later! Almost as if it becomes a Prayer Imprint reminding me to continue that prayer commitment. 


CARLA CAN BE REACHED FOR MORE INSIGHT AND POWERFUL TEACHING AT HER WEBSITE.
PLEASE CLICK HERE

MY CAR IS MY PRAYER CLOSET

THIS IS SO TRUE! MY CAR IS NOT ONLY ONE OF MY PRAYER CLOSETS BUT A MOBILE WORSHIP SANCTUARY! I HAVE PULLED OFF INTERSTATE HIGHWAYS TO PRAY, CRY, SING OUT TO GOD AND MORE. LOUD PRAISE AND WORSHIP MUSIC FOLLOWS ME ALL THE DAYS OF MY LIFE WITH THE WINDOWS UP AS I SING TO MY GOD! I GUARANTEE YOU WILL LOVE THIS PIECE BY CARLA MCDOUGAL , A POPULAR AND FREQUENT WOMEN'S MINISTRY LEADER, WHO IS OUR FREQUENT GUEST HERE! PRAY FOR CARLA AND HER GROWING OUTREACH MINISTRY!!!  (Bernie)

Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you, but I will teach you the good and the right way. Only fear the Lord, 
and serve Him in truth with all you heart, for consider what great things 
He has done for you (1 Sam 12:23)


A brief encounter. For a moment in time. Never to be forgotten. A lump forms in my throat. Humbleness envelopes my heart. Let me set the scene.It was one of those Saturdays. Errands filled my agenda. Pulling out of the driveway I began praying, Lord, I don't want to miss a moment with You. This prayer continued to marinate in my heart as I blurted out, What do you have planned? I can't wait to find out! 

Within minutes I approached a busy intersection. Noticing the light turning yellow, I slowed down. All of the sudden, out from nowhere two ladies wearing bright yellow shirts bolt in front of my car. Shock electrified me from head to toe. After a quick recovery, I noticed the first woman running to the car beside me. And, the other women approaching my door. I hesitated for a split second then rolled down the window. I must admit I was not thrilled about this situation. I mean, come on I was at a red light with a number of cars lined up behind me. 

CARLA MCDOUGAL

Something quickened within me. Immediately, when my eyes met hers I knew she and I were sisters-in-Christ. In this brief encounter she shared her testimony...


"Hi! My name is Crystal Williams. Jesus saved me from the pit of drug   addiction. I represent Restoration Houston Ministry, a faith based Christian organization, that reaches out to those suffering from drug and alcohol addiction. A place addicts can be rehabilitated through the power of Jesus."


Our conversation continued, "So Crystal, are you a believer?" Radiance glistened from her face as she replied, "Yes Mam' my Jesus set me free! He's my Lord and Savior." Tears welled up in both of us. Without realizing it, I grabbed her hands and pulled her head into the car window. An outpouring of prayers gushed from my lips, "Thank You, Jesus, for saving Crystal. I praise you for rescuing her from drugs. I ask for Your protection over her and that the enemy never get a foothold again in her life. And... " By this time she was praying in her own special language. It was then I realized God answered my earlier prayer with a brief encounter at a red light. 


Don't forget, all of this took place between a red light and a green light. To my speculation about three minutes. Hmm, I can't help but wonder if God tweaked the timing of that light for a special appointment He planned. The light turned green, we hugged and I proceeded through the intersection. Oh, and of course I gave to the ministry with a full heart of love. 


Glancing into the rear-view mirror I saw a sight I will never forget. Crystal jumping into the air with her arms reaching to the sky as if to say, "Praise you Lord Jesus. Thank you for loving me enough to allow a special brief encounter with a sister-in-Christ!" Needless to say, a smile adorned my face, a warmth embraced my soul, and praises filled the car. 


Immediately, thoughts rolled in like Did anyone else notice this moment? If so, what were they thinking? Tears gently softened my cheeks. Realizing how God answered my prayer in almost seconds overwhelmed me. My car is my Prayer Closet! 


Challenge... Is your car your Prayer Closet? Are you ready to experience a sweet brief encounter that can change your for life? Pray while in your car. Use this time to spend in communion with the Lord. Pray this prayer and then watch what Jesus does today... Lord, I don't want to miss a moment with You. What do you have planned? I can't wait to find out! 


Be ready. Be willing. Be watchful! 


From My Heart to Yours,
Carla McDougal
carla@reflectivelifeministries.org
CLICK HERE FOR CARLA'S WEBSITE

CONNECT THE DOTS by CARLA MCDOUGAL

Do you remember playing Connect the Dots? I love this game! I like staring at the dots trying to determine their final formation. It reminds me of living everyday for Jesus. Together let's play the Connect the Dots game. Read through Acts 12:5-18. Here is the highlighted points of God's connections...

 Peter Freed from Prison

• Peter is thrown into prison.
• The Church is constantly praying for his release.
• He's chained and guarded by four soldiers.
• Plans are set for Peter's execution.
• But, It was against the law to have a trial or sentencing during the Feast of Unleavened Bread... God's perfect timing begins to unfold.
• Peter slept... He wasn't worried, mad, frustrated, or blaming God, but resting. 
• "Boom"... An angel appears with beams of light and striking Peter on the side.
• His chains fall off. He obeys and follows the angel out the prison doors.
• After the angel departs, Peter recognizes God releasing him from prison.
• Immediately God directs Peter to go to Mary's house.
• The church gathered in one accord at Mary's house praying for Peter's release.
• He knocks at the door of the gate. He knocks and knocks until someone answers.
• These Prayer Warriors can't believe their eyes. 
• In the doorway stands their answered prayer... Peter! 

Peter didn't have a clue of God's plan, he just trusted. In the midst of the Prayer Warriors praying, God answered! Tracing the dots backwards we see how each one connects to God's final purpose and plan. Think for a minute, how did Peter's imprisonment affect others? This Dot Chart is still bridging gaps even today. Oh, God's perfect plan doesn't unfold all at once. It is revealed in His perfect timing!

Keep reading to see a real life Connect the Dots life situation...

____________________________________

Amazing "Connect the Dots" Testimony

~Dedicated to my dear friend Theresa Donlon and her daughter, Anne~ 

I must share a personal testimony about Connecting the Dots. One that is forever embedded in my heart. This is a little long, but so worth your time!

Tuesday, February 7, 2012 

• 6:30am. Before my head leaves the pillow the Holy Spirit begins nudging me...Wake up. I am calling you to pray for every Reflecting Him Sister who is doing this Bible study. Immediately this gentle nudge turns into a sharp prod. With arms to heaven, I drop to my knees praying, "Oh Lord, whoever has her Reflecting Him book open please give her understanding. Pour into her, through the Holy Spirit, sweet revelations from Your Word." This prayer continued throughout the day.  
• 7:00pm. Teaching Reflecting Him Live, Week 3 Senses of the Soul, at Magnolia Bible Church. I share the freshness of God calling me to pray for all "Reflecting Him Sisters." The lecture focuses on the Body of Christ loving each other... "Just like a physical cut to the human body causes platelets to rush in forming scabs and white blood cells show up to fight germs we as the Body of Christ needs to act in the same way. When one is hurt by divorce, death, financial difficulties we need to rush to the scene like platelets ready to bring a meal, pick them up, etc. And some need to act as the white blood cells praying against the woes of the enemy!"
• 8:00pm As the lecture ends one of the ladies, Theresa, literally runs to me. Holding her phone out she says, "Read my Facebook post from this morning at 7:05am... Great time with the Lord this morning in my Bible study. God is connecting the dots!" Tears flow. Embracing one another we thank God for uniting our hearts through the Holy Spirit. 

Thursday, February 9

• I receive an email from Jackie the Bible study coordinator at a church in Bandera, TX. Their group agreed to be "Reflecting Him Sisters" with Magnolia Bible Church and pray for one another while they are all going through the Bible study. Her email confirmed how much their BS group enjoyed praying over their Reflecting Him Sisters at MBC. 

Saturday, February 11 

• I receive a Facebook message from a friend, "Carla, I don't know if you heard the news, but yesterday Theresa's daughter, Anne, died in a car wreck." Shock sets in. I read the message 3 or 4 times to make sure I didn't read it wrong. Tears form. Heart aches. Prayers pour. 
• Rushing home I get on facebook to read her posts. My hearts sinks deeper as I read Theresa's words, "My heart is about to burst. I miss her so much! How can this be happening? God I trust you even when it doesn't make sense." Encouraging messages flood her page. A mama's heart breaking. All I can think about is the events that led up to that day. How God prepared my dear friend in His own way and timing. 

Monday, February 13

• I see on Facebook Theresa's oldest daughter recently moved to Bandera, TX (a town the size of about 1000 people). "God Bumps" encompass my body. Immediately, I send a message to Jackie, the Bible study coordinator in Bandera, informing her of the situation. 

 Tuesday, February 14

• 9AM. I receive a phone call from Jackie. I hear a crack in her voice, "Carla, are you sitting down? You are not going to believe this! Theresa's daughter who lives in Bandera is my best friend's daughter-in-law! It's amazing, God called us to pray over Theresa BEFORE this situation occurred. I am in awe of God Connecting the Dots!" 
• 2PM. Anne's Memorial Service is packed. A pin could be heard as Theresa approaches the podium. In humbleness she shares her heart, "God will be glorified and is glorified through my Anne's death. Over the past 3 weeks God prepared me through my Bible study, Reflecting Him. God has a plan. I trust His plan even though it doesn't make sense." Not a dry eye in the room. I sob. In silence I cry out to God, "If you wrote Reflecting Him through me just for my friend, I praise you. I am yours. To you be the glory forever and ever. I submit to you. Use me as your hands and feet here on earth. Amen!" 

CARLA MCDOUGAL

God continues to use Anne's life to draw others to Himself. A number of people accepted Jesus as Lord and Savior on the day of her memorial service. Praise the Lord! Thank you to the whole Donlon family for allowing God to shine through all of you. For trusting Him when it doesn't make sense. And for focusing on Him in your pain. God is using all of you in a mighty way to further Kingdom purposes as He continues to Connect the Dots!

Do you recognize when God Connects the Dots in your life? Ask Him to open your eyes to those connections. They are vital to understanding what God is doing in and through you. Thank Him for all the past connections and ones yet to come.

CARLA APPEARS HERE FREQUENTLY AND IS THE DIRECTOR OF REFLECTIVE LIVE MINISTRIES. CLICK HERE

THE HEAVENS DECLARE HIS GLORY

....from a personal tour of the Holy Land...THE SEA OF GALILEE!!

The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork.

Day unto day utters speech, and night unto night reveals knowledge.

There is no speech nor language where their voice is not heard. 

Their line has gone out through all the earth, 

and their words to the end of the world.

Psalm 19:1-4

                                                                                                          

CARLA MCDOUGAL
REFLECTIVE LIFE MINISTRIES

Approaching His destination brings a sigh of relief. Rest is near. The aroma drifting off the Sea of Galilee rejuvenates His soul. Peace and quiet call to Jesus, if even for a moment. His weary body feels the effects of traveling for miles. Looking down at His feet, He notices His swollen ankles. All of a sudden, He sees the source of the sharp pain in his feet. The bulging blisters seem to awaken every nerve in His body. He seeks a solitary spot rest. Finding a place for the night brings relief. Using a rock for a pillow, Jesus is lulled by the sound of the water hitting the shoreline. He begins praying, Father, I need some time alone with you! Time to be refreshed. The throng of people are draining my physical, mental and spiritual life. I am tired and my spirit needs replenishing. Closing his eyes, Jesus experiences a sweet union with His Father.

Jesus awakes the next morning while it's still dark. He craves quiet time with His Father. The Sea of Galilee brings Him comfort. Strolling along the shore memories roll in like ripples from the sea. A smile appears as he recalls meeting His first disciples in this very place. Encouragement overwhelms Him.

The crisp breeze gently blows through His cloak. Jesus scans the scenery and notices the sun barely peeking over the mountains casting a reflection on the water. A picturesque moment to behold.Immediately, He recalls His prayer from the night before. He knows His Father is reminding Him of their time together creating the universe. God begins speaking,

Good Morning my son! I miss you. You will be with me soon sitting at my right hand. You are doing a wonderful job. Keep it up! I can't wait for you to return home. But first you have work to accomplish. Continue to listen to me every minute and I will give you the words to speak. I love you!

With hands raised and tears flowing Jesus quotes Psalm 19:5-6, 

In the heavens He has set a tabernacle for the sun, 

which is like a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, 

and rejoices like a strong man to run its race. 

Its rising is from one end of heaven, 

and its circuit to the other end; 

And there is nothing hidden from its heat.

A hush comes over the sea. In that moment He experiences a tender touch. An answered prayer. A refreshment without words!

Are you in need of replenishing your walk with the Lord? Are you tired, worn out and weary? Ask God for refreshment. Recognize the times throughout your day He is giving you a touch of encouragement. And remember... The heavens declare the glory of the Lord! 

(photos & message by Carla, Author/Speaker from Magnolia, Texas

Reflective Life Ministries)

CARLA MCDOUGAL: "FROM A MAMA'S HEART"!

If you are a parent, you will love this short video by Carla, from Reflective Life Ministries!

CARLA MCDOUGAL ON THE "MERRY CHRISTMAS GIVER" STORY OF THE WISE MEN!

CARLA MCDOUGAL

And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presentedgifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.  Matthew 2:1 

And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presentedgifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.  Matthew 2:11

The Christmas season is the time of year we focus on Jesus, the Savior of the world, coming to earth as a babe. His humble entrance changed the future forever! God, in the flesh, bringing hope to a world filled with corruption, chaos and moral decay. In the little town of Bethlehem during the utter confusion of the census Jesus' birth silently swept in like a wintery snow. 

Questions arise about this historic account...

• How did the word get out about the Messiah's arrival?
• Why did God send Jesus at such a chaotic time?
• Are you kidding me... an unsanitary stable with hay, animals and GERMS?
• Why did the wise men bring gold, frankincense, an myrrh? Why didn't they bring blankets, baby clothes and rattlers? 

Let's tackle this last questions. Imagine the wise men just doing their thing... being wise. All of a sudden, they notice a Star beaming in the East. In all their wisdom and knowledge of scripture they recall Numbers 24:17, "A Star shall come out of Jacob; A Scepter shall rise out of Israel, and batter the brow of Moab and destroy all the sons of tumult." These men didn't sit around contemplating the situation. They moved into action. With little time to waste they headed to the East, following the Star. Imagine their journey. Possibly they were singing songs of praise or contemplating what they would say first. With every step their hearts beat faster and faster. 


Keeping their eyes on the Star they land in the town of Bethlehem. They realize the Star is beaming its brilliant light on a meek home. The pounding of their excitement resembles their knock on the door. As it opens tender tears pour. Their eyes focus on the toddler who is with his mother. They can't contain themselves any longer. The Messiah, their Yeshua humbly standing in the midst them. In unison run toward the child and fall on their knees before Him in worship and praise. In a moments notice they begin digging into their bags. One by one they laid their treasured gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh at the feet of Jesus - their long awaited King! Tears puddle beneath them. Physically weary yet energized spiritually they leave this humble abode to return home. Wow, what a trip back that must have been!

Why did they choose these three gifts? This is an Awe-Ha moment... 

Gold symbolized Royalty (The King of the Jews)

Frankincense was a Fragrance (Used in the Temple-rep Priesthood)

Myrrh was an Ointment of Death (Prophesying Jesus' Death) 

God had it all planned out. He directed the Wise Men perfectly not only with the Star, but with the perfect gifts! Through these gifts God provided Joseph and Mary the financial resources needed to flee to Egypt, escaping the wrath of Herod. Their God, their son's Father, meeting the needs ahead of time!

Challenge this Christmas Season... May this Christmas be one you will remember as life changing. Not because of the gifts you receive or places you go, but one that embeds a deeper desire for a relationship with Jesus. Maybe the most precious gift you can give someone is the Gift of Prayer! The beautiful thing about this is it is the gift that keeps on giving. Let's call it The Merry Christmas Giver! 

From My Heart to yours,

Carla McDougal

www.reflectivelifeministries.org

CHRISTMAS MEMORIES

BY CARLA MCDOUGAL

"For nothing is impossible with God." Luke 1:37

Christmas traditions. 

Sweet memories. 

Carla McDougal

Christmas carols ringing.

If you're like me this time of year brings to the surface memories of long ago. I can describe the cover of the famous Johnny Mathis Christmas album in detail. In fact, when I hear the jingle of his "Sleigh Bells Ring" song the Christmas spirit comes alive. What about all those Christmas decorations collected over the years. Unpacking each container usher's in moments of Christmas' past. The ceramic figures painted a variety of colors with a name only a mama could read. The ornament your child made in first grade with his toothless picture embedded in the center. The first ornament you received as a couple reminding you of the covenant made years ago. Unveiling the Precious Moments Nativity figures brings a warmth to my heart. Each piece reminding me of the Reason for the Season... Jesus! 

Memories... some old, some new.

This year we purchased a new artificial Christmas tree. As Fred assembled the pieces we reminisced back to our first Christmas as man and wife... 27 years ago. We were seniors in college with no money. Every penny counted. So, we decided to save money by cutting our own Christmas tree. It was so much fun! The Christmas farm played festive music and offered free hot chocolate. With axe in hand, we entered the pine forest to find the ideal tree. Practicing our newly married skills we agreed on the perfect tree. Of course, at these farms you pay by the foot. As a result, our tree of choice was a very round plump tree instead of a tall symmetrical tree. Fred cut it right at the bottom of the branches so we didn't have to pay for the lower bare section. Smart shoppers... we knew we were getting the most for our money. Excitement filled the air all the way home to our small trailer house. Fred made a stand out of 2 two-by-fours. Keep in mind because of our genius idea  this tree about 1 maybe 2 inches of tree truck for the stand. Visualize what it looked like. 

We strategically placed the tree in the living room. Because of its "plumpness" we only had about a foot of walking space between the front of the couch and the tree. We covered it with lights, plastic cheap apples, and homemade ornaments. Satisfaction overflowed as we snuggled on the couch with the lights glistening and the tree limbs knocking at our knees. 

All of the sudden, the tree began to rock back and forth until it lay at a 45 degree angle. Fred quickly re-adjusted its position. But, I must say with a smile on my face our first  Christmas tree had a mind of its own. Every morning when we walked into the living room to find the tree leaning in one direction or the other. It reminded us of the old toys called Weebles. Their slogan went something like this... "Weebles wobble but they don't fall down." 

Of course, we couldn't blame the tree... it had no base. In order to save money we cut off a vital part of the tree... its support system! What a life lesson! As a Christian we need to make sure we have a strong foundation build on Jesus Christ. We might look like we have it all together, but without a solid base we can easily wobble to and fro. A life built on the Word of God gives you a sturdy foundation to keep you from wobbling when the circumstances in life become heavy.  

Challenge for the Week... During this Christmas season take time to read the Christ-mas story: Luke:1-2. Really absorb every word. Ask the Lord to help you understand the reason for the season... Jesus. Set your foundation on Him, the one and only solid rock. Praise God in the difficult circumstances. Read the Word daily. Pray continually! Prepare yourself so when hard times sweep your direction you are set on the firm foundation of Christ. 

GO TO CARLA'S BLOG HERE AND SHARE A FUNNY CHRISTMAS MEMORY IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO! :-)