Friday, August 12, 2011

Blooming Good Summer!


But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23

I have been enjoying gardening this summer by planting a “heritage” flower garden that is bringing me lots of joy! My mom always has tiger lilies, my two aunts had bleeding hearts and gladiolas, and my mother-in-law grew wonderful bearded irises. The budding flowers and brilliant colors make me smile and give me something new to discover each morning when I leave the house for the Center. There are so many plants now that the weeds are being overpowered, which makes me even happier!


It’s the same in our lives and in the lives of MWC clients, isn’t it? The more we plant God’s Word in the soil of our hearts, the less room there is for the weeds of anger, bitterness, confusion, and other “weeds” that choke out joy and contentment. Often women come to the Center full of these emotional weeds that need to be pulled out and radically amputated. Just as in our lives, it can take time for them to put on the “fruit” of a changed heart. While this week was much calmer than last, it was not quite as smooth as I would like. It did, however, give me opportunities to re-examine the “fruits” of my spirit and to do some weeding of my own! I don’t know about you, but I keep finding weeds where I would like to find beautiful blossoms! Thank goodness God is not finished with me or our clients yet!

Memorial for the Unborn


If you are up in the Brainerd - Baxter area this summer, you should check out the Memorial to the Unborn on the property of First Baptist Church in Baxter. If you or someone you know has suffered any type of pregnancy loss: abortion, miscarriage, stillbirth, infant loss, or the loss of any child, we encourage you to visit this quiet spot for reflection, located at 15221 Russell Road, Baxter, MN 56425.