New Year - New Thing!

I can hardly believe we are standing on the threshold of 2008! Each new year inspires thoughts of what we didn't do or what we want to do next year. The clean slate! The chance to do things right "this year". We allow ourselves a "do over"! God is the ultimate "do over"-giver. It's called grace. How humbling to know we can come before the thone of glory and ask forgiveness. Then, with the largest toss imaginable - our sin goes deep into the sea of forgetfulness - never to be credited to us again. Thank the Lord for it!

One verse God is allowing to bounce around in my brain is:
"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" Isaiah 43:19 NIV.

A "new" thing! I feel that God is embracing my family and moving us into a "new" thing! Through phone calls, contacts and open doors - I can see the way being carved - far better than anything I could have designed.

January 3rd I am singing and sharing my testimony with a senior's group here in Forest City. After a phone call for another purpose, I have another appointment to sing and share on January 24th at an annual pastor's meeting. The opportunity to introduce myself to the local churches - all in one room - far surpasses my "mass mailing" plan. God is so great!

Also this week, I spoke with the studio about how much it would cost to record 3 original songs. At first the price far exceeded what I've collected in the ministry account. However, the studio owner called me back to agree to not only get the session players for that cost - but a full day in the studio, as well. God did it again.

A full 10-song-project with packaging and duplication will be around $6000. Through a mailing in November, I have collected $850. I am taking that money (and adding my own Christmas money) and recording those 3 songs. This week I am praying about who else should receive the letters. Whether the recipients feel lead to send a contribution at this time or not - I covet the prayers of everyone who knows about it. I know God will make a way for this. His calling is irrevokable. Where He guides...He will provide.

Expectantly Waiting

Today is December 22, 2007. Christmas is just days away. My little ones, Sam and Darby, constantly confirm how many days until...the gifts.
My mind goes to Mary during this time of year. The soon-to-be mother of the Savior of the world was wandering. Was she wondering? What must she have been feeling? Certainly "expectant" in many ways. God sent an angel to tell her big things were about to happen. Although afraid, she believed and obeyed. As she wandered to her pre-ordained, yet unknown destination, did she question, "How many days until... the gift?"
I feel expectant too. Without a doubt, God has given and confirmed a calling on my life. He "speaks to me" in lyrics! I love it. Some of the songs I write may only be for me. However, I just believe and obey daily toward my pre-ordained, unknown destination. I can now look back over the path God has allowed me to walk and see his fingerprints all over it. The people I have met and opportunities I've had...All for the glory of the Lord. I will sing for Him just as He sings over me (Zeph. 3:17).
Right now, I am praying about recording those songs. I know that's what I am to do...the unknown destination is "when". It is all so costly. Matt and I sent out letters to two dozen friends and supporters outlining what we were feeling called to do. As a result of that letter, we have received over $800. I opened an account and look forward to watching God grow that into enough to record a project.
Until next time - Join me in prayer
Janet