A time to be inspired, and a time to inspire!

To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven-Ecclesiastes 3:1. 

It seems forever since I've posted on this blog. What a shame!

I can't believe how fast time flies! Day by day... the challenges come, situations arise, oportunities come and go... and life continues its unstoppable journey. Why is it that we allow ourselves to be distracted and not continue a work in progress? Why stop and let it slip by, seemingly, unattended? "To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven", the wise man wrote a long time ago.

But, wait! LIFE DOES NOT WAIT, my friend.  It constantly moves on, leaving behind every second wasted, each hour carelessly spent, every day unresponsibly lived and each and every opportunity inadvertently missed. No one can bring time back. To sit down and cry, what good will it bring? To mourn time lost is a greater loss of time. Move forward!

I have been busy, occupied with ministry: writing, singing, sharing the Word of God, praying for others and helping many in need, but it is time to continue moving forward in each area of my multi-faceted ministry, which includes this blog too!

I just pray that even while I have not been constantly posting here, my life and the work the Lord has appointed me to do has continued to bless and inspire others and glorify the Lord, even in ways I may not be aware of at this moment and time. Let us move forward with the lessons learned along the way. Let us share that our Lord has been good and blessed our efforts (even with our may shortcomings!) and let us praise Him, for each new day is a new opportunity to do His will and give Him the opportunity to fulfill His purpose in our lives.

 What have you started that is now aside, unfinished? What project or ministry did you start that is now waiting for completion? It might be that you started out to reconcile with someone, but got sidetracked along the way. Or, did you put God "on hold" in your life by not following his call and guidance? Did he put a desire in your heart that will enlarge His territory, but you were afraid and stopped along the way?

 There is a time for everything...a time to pray, a time to reflect, a time to share, a time to write and a time to be aware of the blessings withheld by not sharing God's continued care and love throughout our struggles and journeys. There is a time to be inspired and a time to inspire!There is a time to work and a time to rest. But now is not the time to put aside the Lord's calling or His purpose for you, whatever it entails.  It is now the time to move forward pressing toward the goal! Time is of the essence! The Lord is soon to come! It is a time to trust Him and give Him everything, for everything we have is His. 

May the Lord bless you and yours as you take time to reflect in His many blessings, His steadfast promises, and His calling for you, no matter what life's challenged you with! It is time to be inspired by His faithfuness and to inspire others to be faithful!
(c) Rhodi Alers de Lopez, 2015 -06-28

Master Designer

I marvel when I look at God’s handiwork. Nature speaks constantly of a loving Creator who, not only created earth, but the entire universe. God’s creation is a testament of his might, his character, his interest and his loving care for each of us individually, and collectively. The twenty-four hour cycle of day and night, the rhythm of life, the changing seasons with it’s individual and unique splendor, the song of the waves, the breeze, the gurgling brooks trickling to sea, the migration of fish and birds, the colors of a sunset, the tiny flower in the meadow and the delicate aroma of the lilies, all speak without words of a master designer indeed. Scientists are baffled by the complexity of the human body, the nervous system, the organs, the human brain with it’s enormous capacity… We did not come about by chance or change! We were wonderfully and fearfully created by the hand of God with a purpose to our lives!

Nature is an open book that reveals to us the love of God. As we go about our daily tasks, let us look up to the heavens, let us look at nature and read God’s silent, yet clear message of his unconditional love for you and me. Let us rejoice in the knowledge that our Creator is in tune with our every need and willing to satisfy not only our physical needs, but our emotional and spiritual needs as well. Let us unite our voices to the psalmist and say: ¹ The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. ² Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. ³ They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard.^{[a] 4} Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, and their words to all the world. God has made a home in the heavens for the sun. ⁵ It bursts forth like a radiant bridegroom after his wedding. It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race.
⁶ The sun rises at one end of the heavens and follows its course to the other end. Nothing can hide from its heat-Psalm 19:1-6.

I thank God for his infinite love and wisdom. I am not a product of chance. I was created by a master designer. Nature shows how much He cares for me. He created the perfect environment that I may thrive and excel as I grow closer to Him and allow Him to lead my path. When I live responsibly and care for nature and the environment I please my Creator and show my gratitude for all He has done for me. Blessed be the name of the Lord!

Inkspirations... by Rhodi: The unrecognized heroine!

Inkspirations... by Rhodi: The unrecognized heroine!

The unrecognized heroine!

"Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. Honor your father and mother (this is the first commandment with a promise), that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land"-Ephesians 6:1-3, (ESV).

Mother's day was soon approaching. Our church's radio program team was getting ready for the celebration and special broadcast. —Can you, please, have the devotional for the mother's day broadcast? —one of the programmers asked. — I'm willing! But please pray for me!
—What shall I speak about, Lord? — was my immediate prayer. — So much has been said about motherhood! Guide me, dear Lord.

Almost instantly, I remembered a sermon I'd started working on, but had on "hold", unfinished.
—That’s it! Thanks, dear Lord. Thanks again!

I aim to share some highlights of this year's Mother's Day's broadcast, for their relevance in our lives:

Motherhood is a call from God that entails immense responsibility... for "Children are a blessing and a gift from the LORD"-Psalm 127:3, (CEV).

Motherhood imprints its mark in the soul for good or bad. The poet, William Wallace Ross, eloquently emphasizes a mother’s high calling and great influence in his poem “The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world”.

A mother’s love is greater than any other! Some learn to value it still young; others, need a little more time. But many did praise their mother and recognized her labor of love.

Motherhood is risky business! It comes without a warranty. But, thank God for prayer! A mother’s prayer is sweet fragrance to the Lord. God values and answers a mother’s prayer (See Matthew 19:14, ESV).

Dear mothers: Be not afraid to be unrecognized. Dare to be a hero before the Lord! To be recognized should never be your motivation to reach new heights in your challenging task. Whether others understand and appreciate your task or not, if you raise godly children, women and men of valor and dignity, they will thank you under the tree of life!

Let prayer be your mighty sword to complete your heavenly appointed task. King David and many others are among those whose mothers’ name may not be known right now; but what a task they completed for the Lord! You may feel unappreciated, but He who bestowed upon you the gift of motherhood, does recognize and appreciate your work, your perseverance, your sacrifices and love! Thou your children go astray, never give up! Never stop praying for your children. And God will answer your prayers on their behalf (See Isaiah 49:25, CEV).

On mothers' day I sent her flowers. But each day I thank heaven for my godly mother. Nothing shaped me like her love, nothing guides me like her faith, and nothing strengthens me like her prayers. Nothing can replace her, and nothing I do will ever repay her. Her reward is in heaven. For now, I cherish and love her, thank her and often tell her how much she means to me.

Motherhood is a gift from heaven; and the children, a blessing from above: one for which our Giver, will soon, ask about. May God continue to bless each mother's dedication and labor with his wisdom and infinite love.

Love me tender...

Another year, another celebration of love. Once more the calendar marks February 14th- Valentine's day.

My lips, softly and tenderly kissed my loved ones this morning, wishing them a blessed day, as they awoke. I made sure they enjoyed a warm breakfast, before heading out in the bitter cold to face another work day.

Now, alone with my thoughts in the refuge of our home, I reflect on the moments and days gone by... the blessings, the challenges, the difficult situations I've encountered along the way and the resolutions to be more loving, more like Jesus. I reflect on the many instances I've not accomplished my goal, and the countless times I've faltered. The scene is not as bright as it ought.

In the wee hours of the morning I spoke to my friend, Jesus.
—Oh, how I wish to be more like you!—I whispered.
—I'm willing to help!
—Please do, Lord! I need you desperately or I'll fail.

Ever felt like you try and you try but you fail? If so, you get the picture.

I ponder the countless hearts that are out there... in the cold winter of their life, longing for love and tenderness, hungering compassion, searching for a helping hand, for a word of hope. I'm sure you've noticed them too. It seems unfair to learn about so many in dire need of the bare necessities of life. Multitudes are homeless; others face illnesses. Some have no hope for a better future. While you and I might not be able to change the lives of many, I'm certain that, by the grace of God, I can help at least some.

Each time I treat others with respect and dignity, each time I pronounce an encouraging word, every time I give the best of me to those I encounter on my path, I'll be spreading love, and joy and cheer and hope. The words of the Master and Savior, the Author of love, come to my mind: "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'-Matthew 25:40.

—Love me tender, my child. Love me tender... —I hear him reply.

So, all I need to do is love Jesus, love him with all my heart, mind and soul! For when I do, I'll see him in each person too: in the children, the young, the adults, the elderly, in the needy, the accomplished, the survivor, the struggling one, the friends and the unfriendly, the caring and the cold, in those who love me, and in those who've wronged me...

May I see Jesus in every person crossing my path today, for only then will I have accomplished the task and learned to love the way you do, dear Jesus, I pray. For then, each day, we'll truly have a happy Valentine's day!

My "To-do" list

Have you ever found yourself burdened and short of time to accomplish your tasks? I surely have! Seems like the days get shorter and shorter by the minute! And it has nothing to do with the daylight savings change-of-time or winter itself... In Matthew 24, as Jesus described the signs of his second coming to his friends, he warned them about the days becoming shorter for the sake of those who love him: “If the time had not been made short, no life would have been saved. Because of God's people the time will be made short”- Matthew 24:22, New Life Version.

And the apostle Paul wrote to the Ephesians: “So be careful how you live. Live as men who are wise and not foolish. Make the best use of your time. These are sinful days. Do not be foolish. Understand what the Lord wants you to do”-Ephesians 5:5-17, New Life Version.

Balancing full-time office work, a ministry, church responsibilities and household responsibilities, I've found myself in the need of making a To-do-list in order to use time wisely and accomplish the most urgent tasks in my super busy day. But I find that spending time with my Creator early in the day, enables me to accomplish far more than other days, regardless of the challenges I face. So "Devotional time" remains #1 on my list. Even thou I consider it more of a privilege than a task, scheduling time for it keeps me on track and eases my day. It surely works wonders!No matter what is on my "To-do" list today, setting time aside for my Creator and friend gives me the cutting edge! I invite you to try it! It may save your day too!

©Rhodi Alers de López, 2006-11-15

Touched... forever!

Memories
The days come and go,
and so do people in our lives.
Some stay by our side;
others, only a little while.

But the memories left behind,
their kindness and loving ways,
the warmth and joy they spread
still speak loudly each new day.
©Rhodi Alers de López, 2006

Did you ever know someone, even for a little while, whose memory brings a smile to your face? Teachers, friends, family members and many others... they each have an influence in us, in one way or another. Life is not always perfect, for we live in an imperfect world, disfigured by sin and its consequences. But there are people who touch our lives in ways that impact us forever, in a positive way.

One such person was my dad. Thou his life was shortened by unexpected death, the legacy of love and kindness left behind still stands tall and strong like an evergreen, inspiring my life and making it worthwhile. Truly, his works do follow him. As the apostle John said: “Happy are those who from now on die in the service of the Lord!” “Yes, indeed!” answers the Spirit. “They will enjoy rest from their hard work, because the results of their service go with them”-Revelation 14:13 (Good News Bible).

Father's day in the USA is celebrated in June. But I celebrate my dad each new day. For him, I thank God and my mom.

Dear Lord: Help me live a life that inspires others in their walk with you; that your name may be exalted, even when I rest from my labor. Amen.
©Rhodi Alers de López, 2006-07-06

A virtuous woman-legacy of love

"Her children arise and call her blessed..." -Proverbs 31:28

Reflecting on my mother's love it's hard to point out just one way she expresses her love to her children, for it shows it in everything she does. But one thing is certain: I will always thank God for her attitude in life. If I need to single out just one trait of her character, one memory or one powerful lesson and expression of her love it is that she's remained positive, thankful and singing throughout the most trying circumstances of her life. Life's challenges and struggles seem powerless to undermine her determination to be cheerful and praise the Lord.

As a child, I remember waking up to her cheerful songs. Early in the morning she'd gather her family to praise and thank the Lord, and seek his guidance for the day. Throughout the day, her sweet voice filled the air and, at night, we'd gather again to worship our heavenly Father and sing.

When my father, a healthy man, suddenly passed away, leaving her with five small children, she drew strength from the Word of God and the songs of faith she'd learned throughout her life. Raising us alone, she taught us by example that life and it's toils can never take away the treasure of a cheerful heart.

Though her body shows the wear and tear of years of hardship, her heart remains young, brimming with gratitude that flourishes in a beautiful, contagious smile and a song to praise the Lord. Rain or shine she remains a testament of God's faithfulness. Her presence irradiates peace and a joy that baffles many. Her conversations overflow with love towards others, but most of all, to our heavenly Father.

What better legacy of love? Surely, she's touched my life forever in ways that only time will tell, for she's a virtuous woman, a woman of faith, a woman with a cheerful heart. From her I've learned to look at life and it's challenges with a different perspective, with " heavenly lens". I've learned to praise the Lord whatever the challenge and I've seen him work in my life.

Today and every day I thank God for her legacy of love, and I praise the Lord with a tune from my heart, a tune that no person or challenge can take away!
©Rhodi Alers de López, 2006, April 26.

Its all about Love

Love is patient and kind; it is not jealous or conceited, or proud"-

I Corinthians 13:6


Love is beautiful. Despite all the troubles around us, love makes life worth living. So let us be instruments of kindness, warriors of love to all those around us! Are you up to the challenge?

Instrument of kindness, warrior of love

To love one another,

to not hold a grudge,

to help those who need us,

to ease someone's pain,

to share the burdens,

to sing a sweet tune,

to make someone happy

to lighten the load...

to share the successes,

to cry with the sad,

to make a child happy,

to point to the stars,

to heal those life wounded

and help mend a heart

to "be there" when needed

and to understand,

is all in the big plan

that God, in His grace,

set out for this nation,

and beautiful land.

But many have wandered

away from His Word,

ignoring His calling

to love and prosper.

So many are needing

a kind word or two...

And many now wander

in darkness and pain.

Won't you let your light shine

and let your love flow

to others in kindness,

and a helping hand?

Be patient, be loving.

Treat others with care.

The joy that you now spread

will come back again.

Reach out to your neighbor,

for you never know

the time when you'll need him

and knock at his door.

Refuse not your kindness

to strangers or poor

for by helping others

you're helping the Lord.

If love makes the world sing

and love heals the heart

rejoice in the blessing

that you may impart

by loving your neighbor

as you love yourself,

for you' re making this earth

a much better place.

©Rhodi Alers de López, 2006

Above the heavens

"Your constant love reaches above the heavens; your faithfulness touches the skies"- Psalm 108:4 (Good News Bible)

This morning, as I read the Word of God, I recalled a wonderful experience: Flying back home from Puerto Rico, after a tour promoting my ministry, I was amazed by the magnificent view of the clouds. I searched through my pictures and, yes! I have one of that special moment in time. There, above the heavens, I was in complete awe of God's handiwork. Needless to say, peace and gratitude overflowed my already joyous soul.

While enjoying the view, I took mental notes of the blessings this trip brought me, and how God provided for my every need throughout my three-week tour. I'd seen His hand in many ways! Looking at the clouds below reminded me of how uncertain this life is and how much we depend on the loving care of our heavenly Father. What a blessing it is to know Him, my Creator and Savior!

Today I'm facing challenges, but, as I look at this picture, I'm reminded of God's faithfulness. I can put all my troubles, challenges and concerns in His hand and know that He holds the present and the future. I can sing as the psalmist did so many years ago and know that I will not be dissapointed:

"I have complete confidence, oh God!

I will sing and praise you!

I will thank you, oh Lord among the nations.

I will praise you among the peoples.

Your constant love reaches above the heavens;

your faithfulness touches the skies".

Psalm 108: 1, 3-4

Once again, delving into the Word of God brought peace and comfort to my heart, as I relived that wonderful moment while reading Psalm 108. Just what I needed today! What reminds you today of God's direction and care?

Dear heavenly Father: May the faithfulness you've shown me in the past hold me steadfast in the midst of today's trials. May the certainty of your love bring stability in these uncertain times. May the tunes of my heart glorify your name each and every day, bring what they may! Amen.

©Rhodi Alers de López, 2006-01-20

A Blessing Renewed

There is a blessing in each new day. It's revitalizing to go out early in the morning and breath in the fresh air of a brand new day. A new day brings the sense of new opportunities, leaving behind the frustrations of the days gone by. No matter how succesful or unsuccesful yesterday was, today I am given a new opportunity in life to reach new goals, to do a better job, to serve others with all my heart and to walk closer to the Lord. Thou I can certainly look back and learn from the past, I can certainly look ahead with optimism and make the most of the blessing of a new day.

The apostle Paul reminds us of this blessing in 2 Corinthians 5:17-"Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new".

Now that I've been given a New Year, I am thankful for the renewed blessing it brings. I'd like to breath in the fresh air of the Holy Spirit, that my life will be revitalized and empowered to serve the Lord in a way that glorifies His name. By the grace of God, I aim to be a new creature, one who walks the path ahead hand in hand with Christ, one who'se priority is the will of God, one who'll allow the Holy Spirit to fulfill His purpose in me.

Thank you, Lord for the blessing of a New Year! Together, You and I can make the most of this renewed blessing!
©2006-01 Rhodi Alers de López

A Christmas prayer

For broken homes and broken lives,
For those who’ve never seen the Light,
For little ones and old alike,
For those who have no hope in sight…

Oh Lord, please, bless and touch each one
And help us help with humble hearts
And share the blessings you impart
That they may know they’re in your heart.

How will they know if we don’t go?
How will they have if we don’t give?
Help us each day to do our share
So they may know you and believe.

Christmas: a blessing to the world,
Because you gave yourself, for us;
Make us a vessel of your love
Sharing hope with those around us.

Let Christmas be a guiding light
To share with others the delight
Of knowing peace and love within.
‘Cause Jesus set us free from sin.

The Christmas spirit is to give
So let us give comfort, relief,
and share and give and then, receive…
for giving does comes back to give.

©Rhodi Alers de López, 2005-12-12

Merry Christmas! The more we share... the merrier it will be!

A perfect Christmas

"This very day in David's town your Savior was born-Christ the Lord!" Luke 2:11

Christmas, the celebration of Jesus' birth is beautiful. Do you have a Christmas dream? Do you wish for Christmas to be extra special? Do you have a wish list? If so, perhaps it includes the gifts that you’d like to receive and those you want to give.

How would you describe the perfect Christmas? Snowy? The brightest star and lots of handmade ornaments on your tree? Lots of family gathered 'round the tree singing christmas carols? Gifts of every size, color and shape? A table full of goodies?

Have you considered Jesus' wish list for this Christmas? He has a dream and you and I can help it become true:

I’m dreaming of Christmas

I’m dreaming of a star lit Christmas.
Will Bethlehem’s Star shine bright
in every person’s heart,
embellishing mankind?

I’m dreaming of a warm Christmas.
Will you extend the blanket of love,
and lend a hand to cover
the countless needy souls?

I’m dreaming of a white Christmas.
Let peace and understanding
wipe glooms of conflict and hatred.
Let hearts be conquered by caring.

I’m dreaming of a joyful Christmas.
Will you leave resentments behind
and to those who have wronged you,
be instead gentle and kind?

I’m dreaming of a special Christmas.
Let your heart be a manger,
let your soul be a throne
for the child God, the Savior.

I’m dreaming of a beautiful Christmas
like it is meant to be:
Hearts united, rejoicing,
living lives that reflect me!

I’m pleading while dreaming of Christmas.
Will you make my dream come true?

Sincerely,
Jesus,

the reason for the season.

Each of us can make a difference this Christmas season and each day. Let your heart be a vessel, a recipient of heavenly peace, so it overflows to others in blessings of joy and understanding. He's counting on you and me to make his dream come true. Are you up to the challenge?

Let's do our part that he too may have a perfect Christmas. It'll make your Christmas perfect too... the happiest ever, I'm sure!

©Rhodi Alers de López, 2005-11-28

Giving thanks… for blessings by the bushel!

It’s that time of the year again: the month in which many think “turkey, apple pie, big dinner, family gatherings, Christmas shopping”, etc.

For many, it is the one-time-a-year when they will actually “give thanks” to the Lord for his blessings.

I’ve learned to thank God each day, for every morning his blessings are renewed. But when I look back, at the beginning of the year, I certainly have blessings by the bushel for which to praise the Lord in a very special way. It’s been a very productive year in this ministry and I thank God for that.

Here I share just a few blessings, which I consider milestones for the glory of God:

-The release of my Cd: “Me faltan palabras” (My words are insufficient to say Thank you).

-The publication of my first book- “Suspiros del Alma… poesía, reflexiones y más” (“Sighs of the soul… poetry, reflections and more”).

-The publication of 10 of my devotionals in the 2005 women’s devotional book-“Voces del corazón”-Voices from the heart.

-Monitoring the prayer request in the Boomer Women Speak forum.

-God granted me the opportunity of presenting a workshop for other women interested in writing devotionals in various churches in MA.

-The creation of my website: www.expressionpublishingministries.com.

-My promotion trip to Puerto Rico was a great blessing, and a dream come true!

-Sharing my testimony there with so many is a plus!

Stemming from my trip to Puerto Rico, I was able to get in touch with my college-days friend. Nothing happens by coincidence. Our heavenly Father has a purpose for everything and I pray it proves to be a blessing in her life.

I was also able to meet the angel who prepared my mother’s baby shower before my twin sister and I were born. What a blessing!

I had the opportunity to give the devotional writing workshop in P.R. About 40 women attended this event. To see their enthusiasm and eagerness to write and share their testimony is a blessing in itself. It is my prayer that the Lord uses them to inspire others.

-Life, family, health, resources, friends, church family, salvation, and the way God cares for each detail of my life are just a few of the daily blessings by the bushel.

-The apostle Paul encourages us be thankful in all circumstances (I Thessalonians 5:18). I also need to give thanks for each trial, each problem, each disappointment and each stone in the way. They’ve become blessings in disguise. I sing to the Lord, because each trouble brought me to the Source of Help: Jesus, the ever present Help in times of need and He's never failed!

None of the blessings received I deserved. The glory and honor belong to my King, my Friend, and my Father, who so lovingly bestows his mercies on me.

For this and more “I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all the wonderful things you have done. I will sing with joy because of YOU. I will sing praise to you, Almighty God” Psalm 9:1, 2.
©Rhodi Alers de López, 2005-11-21

My Lord is the best!

Last night I talked to my heavenly father.
-Dear Lord, my cares seem so insignificant next to what our fellow citizens in the gulf coast are going through, I almost feel ashamed!
-But I take interest in your struggles too. You don’t need to feel ashamed to bring them to me.
-Thank you, Lord. Please, help me rest and leave it all in your hands.
Tears rolled down my cheeks. My pillow witnessed my silent struggle. But God gave me rest.

Today I was facing new challenges. After my personal time with God, I went about my daily duties trying not to think or be overwhelmed with these issues over which I have no control, and trying to focus on the blessings and God's promises.

The day went on, slowly. My mind was stirring up questions for which I had no answers.
-Lord, I need your help. I am not about to give up, but I can’t do this alone.
-You’re not alone. I am with you!

I tuned in to the Christian radio station in Puerto Rico -through the internet-and ... just as I turned the volume dial up, my theme song started to play: its translation says "My words are insufficient as I try to say thank you!” Praise the Lord! I had no choice but to sing along. The words just seemed to flow praising God. My troubles seemed so small!

A few minutes later, at the beginning of one of my favorite radio programs, the Scripture read reassured me that God is in control and that he cares for each and every detail of my life. Praise Him again!

I finally reached a friend on the phone, who heard me trying to sing a tune.
-Are you writing a song or just singing to avoid crying?
This friend seems to know me all too well.

-No, I'm just singing to avoid crying. I can be honest with you.
-Oh, I thought you had a new melody...
-It's been a while since I write a song.

As soon as I hung up the phone I started singing and writing a new song. It was a breeze, for God is great!!! I reached for my Bible and the words that inspired me were highlighted, of course.

I now have it in Spanish and also in English! I just have to praise the Lord over and over.

"I am with you"- is the theme of my song, based on Isaiah 41:13, 43:2.
The Lord is just so great. I am amazed by His kindness and mercy!
No trouble is too small or too great for our Heavenly Father. His love covers all. His arms are strong enough to carry your burden and mine. His ear is listening to each and every cry for help and He is there for you and me. He is there, in the midst of devastated homes and families, and he is with me also. He has time to soothe a broken heart, to comfort the weary, to heal the wounded and to rejoice with those who praise him. He is God, ever present, ever caring, forever bringing joy and hope even in the bleakest circumstances that we may face. My Lord and God is the best!
©Rhodi Alers de López, 2005-09-08

Undefeatable Attitude

During the “Christmas in July” celebration of the Today Show in N.Y. on July 26, 2005, Katelyn Wilbanks, from Catoosa, OK was awarded a full scholarship from OU, the University of Oklahoma. This award will allow her to graduate and fulfill her dream of studying to become a physician and help other children.

This teenager has a dream that no one can take away from her. Katelyn was born with Spina-bifida, a deformity of the spine causing her mayor health problems and physical impairments; her prognosis was totally negative. But the love of her family members and her own will to survive, proved the medical community wrong, empowered her and gave her the tenacity to overcome each and every obstacle in her life. She’s endured 54 surgeries so far and lost her left leg, yet, her attitude remains positive and her smile is contagious. David L. Boren, president of the university, handed the award which covers four years of room, board, tuition, books, etc. Katelyn is currently a sophomore at her hometown’s high school,and meanwhile, the university also arranged to have Katelyn tutored from now on, so she’ll be ready to enter the University when time is due.

One can only admire and marvel at such a young life and her accomplishments so far. It is a powerful testimony to many who succumb under the tiniest amount of pressure and adversity. So much endured, yet so positive and determined to beat the odds and be of help to others!

Are you facing struggles and hardships? Are you down and ready to give up? Or are you counting your blessings amidst your trials and looking for ways to beat the odds, and better yet, make a difference in someone’s life?

Success in life is not determined by the lack of struggles and setbacks. It is determined by our will to overcome and by our positive attitude. No wonder Solomon, the wise man, said: “Being cheerful keeps you healthy. It is slow death to be gloomy all the time” (Proverbs 17:22-Good News). This has proved to be true in Katelyn’s life.

Next time you feel tempted to feel sorry for yourself, remember… success is determined by our attitude, not our circumstances. Why not cheer up and dare to make a difference in someone’s life? It will certainly make a difference in your life as well.
©Rhodi Alers de López, 2005-07-26

This Beautiful Day

Beautiful days are not only sunny days with blue skies, a gentle breeze and birds singing. Rainy days have their beauty too.

Imagine you are a flower. Would you complain about the weather? Would you be grateful only for sunny days? Would you be thankful for rainy days only? Some days are just cloudy, some are rainy, some days we get scattered showers, and some are plain dry and bright. Others, the heat is just unbearable and others, the storms just keep us inside seeking shelter.

Just as flowers need all kinds of days to grow beautiful, we need a variety of weather factors to grow into the beautiful flower God intends us to be.

We usually have no problem with sunny days, when all seems to go right and life is a breeze. But, what about those other days? Let the clouds of doubts draw us to search for God’s answers. The light of the world, the Sun of righteousness keeps His light ever shining, far, beyond the clouds. Let rainy days help us draw lessons of faith and trust in our heavenly father, that we may become stronger as our roots go deeper into the word of God. Let stormy days direct us to seek shelter in his arms.

Problems, trials and sorrows are part of life. Jesus said to his followers: “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me, you might have peace. In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world”–John 16:33. Through his victory we have victory, for “we can do all things through Christ which strengthens us”-Phil. 4:13

Rain or sunshine God bestows his loving care upon each flower. The beauty of today lies in your ability to understand that he will take care of you regardless of the weather.

©Rhodi Alers de López, 2005-06-22

The Prayer of Jabez

“Lord, that You would bless me, indeed;
Enlarge my territory,
And that Your hand be with me, Lord,
From all evil keeping me,
So that I may not cause pain.”
(I Chronicles 4:10)

Lord, you see I’m not specific
For You know just what to do.
I pray- bless all my endeavors
That they may glorify you.

Open up new ways to serve You,
As you bless me, Precious Lord;
May I share your loving kindness,
Make your blessings to all known.

Please, use me as your instrument,
Make my life more meaningful
As You bless others that need you
Through my life and love for you.

I believe you have a purpose
For my life and ministry.
Grant me, Father, that I serve you,
Lovingly, whole-heartedly.

Your resources have no limits,
Open heaven’s treasures’ doors.
Pour upon my life Your Spirit,
Let me so reflect your love.

With Your hand guiding me, gently,
In whatever task I face,
This, your servant, humbly follows
For you’ve promised me your grace.

Lead me not into temptation,
Keep me from the wicked path.
Guard my soul for You’re my Savior.
Make me follow You, The Path.

Help me not to cause you sorrow,
Help me heed your voice, indeed.
Help me be a precious blessing
Instead of causing others’ defeat.

Oh, that Your hand be with me, Lord,
In everything that I do.
May my life and its endeavors
Always, Lord, glorify You!
© Rhodi Alers de López 06-17-03

To a special man

Honor thy father and thy mother. Exodus 20:12

May comes and goes with celebrations for mom in many ways. Certainly, she ought to receive our love and admiration for all she does. Words will probably never be enough to describe her never-ending task of nurturing and caring for her offspring.

But there is a special person who also deserves our love, recognition, admiration and our gratitude. This person is usually overshadowed by the glamour that revolves around Mother’s day and remains in quiet longing for some gratitude and appreciation from the ones he works so hard to provide a home, and all their needs for. He is a person whose way of showing love differs from that of mom, but whose love is unmeasured.

That special man is dad. Fathers are special people. My father was a blessing in my life. Thou he lived a short life, he is still impacting mine. He was a loving husband, a caring father, a diligent worker and a man of his word. His way of disciplining and his example go a long way. I thank God for the privilege of having an awesome father. Awesome, because through his life, he showed us what it means to love God and one another.

I thank God for fathers who strive to be the best example they can be for their kids, for fathers who provide not only financial stability, but emotional and spiritual stability too. I thank God for fathers, who not only discipline, but who also become friends with their kids; fathers who fear not to acknowledge they have made mistakes, fathers who will
love unconditionally and inspire their family with understanding, forgiveness and acceptance.

One day is not enough to show and express gratitude and admiration for a father’s role and contribution to his family and community. But it is certainly appropriate to recognize the great importance of their role and how much a good father is appreciated. It is a blessing to have a caring father and I am blessed with the memories of a godly father.

To all the fathers that do their best and have done the best, to all the fathers that make life worthwhile… thanks from the bottom of my heart. May God bless each and every father with wisdom to do what is right for your family. May God give you his blessing and may you have a very, very happy father’s day. And thou you may not be perfect, may your day be perfect to celebrate what you are: a father, a special man.

©Rhodi Alers de López, 2005, 06-17

Reflections on a mother's day

It was back in 1907 that Ana Jarvis started campaigning to celebrate mother's day as a national holiday. In 1914, president Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the second sunday of may the national day for such celebrations.

But why do we celebrate mother's day and when do we celebrate? Do we celebrate because everybody else does? Do we really celebrate what ought to be such an important date in our calendar?

Mother's day is just one of the days to celebrate a mother's love, compassion, perseverance, longsuffering, etc. I celebrate my mother every time I have the opportunity to call, write or see her. My mom is a precious gift from God and I cherish her dearly. I don't wait for mother's day to come, for mother's day should be every day of the life God grants her. I try to stay in contact often. (She lives in Puerto Rico). I always try to thank her and let her know how important she is and how much I appreciate her ways, her special touch, her love and understanding.

As for gifts... what her heart desires is to be appreciated and loved. No fancy gift will ever replace the joy a grateful and loving child can bring to her heart. All she wants is our gratitude, our love.

As I recall days gone by, I thank God for a mother who has put her trust in the Lord and, thus, shown me by example that it is better to put my trust in Him than in silver or gold. I can truly priase God for giving me a virtuous woman, a woman who serves the Lord with gladness and unwavering faith.

May God bless each mother in her wonderful and challenging task!
©Rhodi Alers de López, 2005-05-08