What a Woman!

Did you ever hear that old Steve Wariner song “(It’s Not What I Did,) It’s What I Didn’t Do” from back in the ‘80s?  Today as I reflect on a woman whom I love dearly, I’d like to tell you a few things Betty McAlister Lewis didn’t do.

From our first meeting on February 28, 2013, Betty did not ignore me.  I had attended a Bible Study Class at Mountain Grove Baptist Church and she was quick to welcome me and follow up with me.  We became Facebook Friends immediately and since that day, there has not been a week that has gone by that Betty has not reached out to me in some way.

Another thing Betty didn’t do was fail to praise me.  Whether she commented on my Wandering Through The Bible Blogs (she was my number two supporter!) with her own anecdotes or encouraging words of empathy, Betty never ceased to amaze me with her love and grace as I muddle my way through my experiences with Christ and with life.

Thirdly, Betty didn’t hound me.  When I no longer attended the Bible Study, she still checked on me.  She questioned whether or not I was in another, prayed for me to find a church that I could grow in and be a part of, and genuinely cared about my personal growth in Christ.

Betty didn’t hold back.  When she believed in something or someone, she believed with all of her might.  If you were wrong, she called you on it--with love always and with strength in her convictions.

Betty didn’t conceal her faith.  Her love for Jesus was noticed nearly every day on her Facebook page.  Whether it was a Bible verse, a special meme created, or just some words of encouragement to her family and friends, Betty shined.  She didn’t ever tell me to stop smiling.  Rather, she remarked each time she saw me on how beautiful my smile was, how it lit up the room, and how she missed me when I wasn’t around.

Betty didn’t live a perfect life.  Betty didn’t always have the faith she has now.  Betty didn’t always love without restraint.  Betty didn’t tell people she was perfect nor better than they were.  Betty didn’t do a lot of negative things that so many of us do daily.  Instead, what Betty did--and did well--was love.  With her heart.  With her actions.  With her faith.  She didn’t turn her back when the going got tough but pushed forward with determination to make situations better.  

Today, I celebrate Betty.  This beautiful lady that God placed in my life at a time when I needed loved so much.  This wonderful woman He gave to me as a precursor, as an example of how I am to live--boldly and without regrets.  Because of Betty, my heart is more tender, more loving, more accepting, and fuller.  I love this woman and I thank God for allowing our paths to not only cross but to allow us to walk on together.  

Put me in, Coach!

May 9, 2015

Good morning!  It's a beautiful spring day and I plan to go out and enjoy it.  In a few minutes, Steve and I will head to the ball field to watch our two oldest gsons play some Tball.  It should be a fun--and humorous--experience.  

These little kids go out and try to hit a ball that has either been pitched to them or--if they were unable to connect--they try to hit it off of a tee.  The expressions on their faces as that ball makes impact with their bats is priceless.  What they do next is even more fun because some are just so excited to have hit the ball that they aren't sure if they should run to third base or first, or if they should look around to see who else saw that, or whether they should jump up and down from the pure joy of the occasion.

Shouldn't that be us today, friends?  Shouldn't we be so excited in this game of life that when it's our turn to bat and we get a hit that our exuberance knows no limits?  Shouldn't we bask in the sunshine as success comes our way?  And lastly, shouldn't we be like little kids, expecting to be praised and patted on the back for our attempts, even if in our success we get a little confused and we run the opposite way?

As you go about your day today, take time to see the opportunities ahead of you.  If the first pitch doesn't go your way, try again.  And again if necessary.  And remember:  when you can't hit it on your own, don't be afraid to rely on a little help from others.  We're all in this together, folks.  Get your bats ready.  Don't forget the helmet 'cause you know someone out there is going to try to knock you down.  Keep that battle gear on!  Lastly, don't forget to have fun.  God wants us to live the abundant life and I intend to go do that.  Join me?

Let's pray!

Dear Lord, as this day holds so much promise for fun, sun, and maybe a burger on a bun, may Your children honor You with our actions.  May we support one another even if it appears we are on opposing teams.  May we cheer when success comes.  And, when it's all over with, may we shake hands and be friends with those on the other team, showing them our spirit is one of camaraderie and is a reflection of the love You have given to us.  We love You, God.  Thank You for this beautiful day!  In Jesus' name.  Amen.