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"The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself." (Proverbs 11:25)
It helps me when I can help you. It blesses me when I can bless you. And I will let you in on a little discovery I have made: I am probably more blessed giving than those who are receiving. If you apply that principle yourself, then you will learn a wonderful secret: the joy of giving in every area of your life. Have you discovered that secret yet? We don't know how long we will live. But I believe that if we live each day as unto the Lord, then we won't have to worry about the length of our lives. So make every day count. Don't waste your life. Give out of what God has given you. Live your life well.
17 March 2010, 2:14 pm
Well, it's that time! :) This is my last official post as the Midday Host here at 88.7FM, The Cross. WOW!! It's hard to believe! So, I'd like to leave you with a few things . . .

If you are reading this, then you have SOME level of awareness of The Cross. I encourage you to INCREASE it . . . take a greater level of ownership in God's ministry here!!   First, if you haven't yet given financially, you can do it right here online!! EASY!! If you don't feel you can commit to a monthly payment, don't miss out on investing at least a one-time gift back into a ministry that has already basically "paid it foreward!" Secondly, at all points, the greatest commitment "NONE OF US can afford NOT to make" is to intentionally pray for all aspects of the ministry here, from the leadership, to the finances, to the listeners - WORLDWIDE - and all areas in between!! So, I challenge you today to get TAKE OWNERSHIP in the Source that has provided encouragement, strength, and hope through the Truth available here!!

I was a listener for 3 1/2 years before I came onboard as the Midday Host here, and The Cross served as a "lifeline" for my family and I through some critical times - - as many of YOU have expressed over and over!!   The opportunity for me to give, not only of my finances, but my heart, my time, my energy and effort has been INVALUABLE to ME!! I have GAINED so much more than I could ever GIVE, because, that's just the way God works!!   We step out in obedience, surrender what we have to offer and He multiplies it, accomplishing His purpose, and pouring out a blessing we cannot EVEN contain!!

Regardless of whether I have an obvious presence here on The Cross, please know I will continue shoulder-to-shoulder wth you in our crusade to keep Christian radio moving out over the airwaves in our area and over the internet, touching hearts and changing lives, . . . MAKING A DIFFERENCE FOR ETERNITY!!

I will still be around!! :)) So, I will look forward to seeing many of you in August at the "It's A Mom Thing" event!! Until we meet again, "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face to shine upon you; the Lord be gracious to you, and give you peace" (Num 6:24-26), in Jesus name, AMEN!!

Much love and continual prayers,
Jenny :)

24 February 2010, 12:13 pm
Having Valentine's Day on Sunday felt almost religious for me. I mean, here we are on the day that we are to celebrate love and it falls on the day that we are to celebrate the Sabbath. I woke up this morning, intentionally mesmerized by my First Valentine.

You see, there was a time in my life when the thought of having a family, finding a spouse - feeling that kind of love - probably would never happen. I was messed up and unworthy of such a blessing. But, today surrounded by a family that loves me without shame, I am reminded of the One that loves me most.

He didn't send me roses or buy my chocolates, but He took my sins on His shoulders and drove them into the grave! He didn't buy me dinner, but His body was broken for me. He didn't toast me with champagne, but he poured out His blood so that my sins would be covered. He didn't take me out to dinner, but He has always been by my side, loving me, spending time with me, sharing with me. He didn't buy me a gift, but He paid the price so that I could live forever in His love and in His peace!

Jesus Christ is my First Valentine, and at the end of time He will be my only Valentine...a lifelong Valentine that will never leave me or forsake me. After all, His name is Love - He always hopes, always trusts, always perseveres; He never fails!
14 February 2010, 6:00 pm
In our Sunday school class we've been looking back at the deliverance of Israel from the Egyptians. As we read about the frogs, flies, and locusts I can't help but feel the heebie-jeebies! Gross! Can you even imagine? The thought of being swarmed, surrounded, and overwhelmed with those crispy, slimy, buzzy creatures makes me squirm. And you wonder, why in the world did Pharoah hold out so long!?

It reminds me of times in my life when I heard the Spirit say, "Well, Les, we can do this the easy way or the hard way!" And, like a rebellious Tween I said, "I'll take the hard way." Well, I don't think I ever SAID that, but I implied it with my disobedience. And I wonder, why would God give me the option? Well, maybe the answer can be found in Exodus.

Moses went to Pharoah, asking him to let the Israelites go! But even when God turned the Nile to blood, when He decimated the livestock, when He rained hail down from heaven, when He inflicted them with boils, Pharoah would not be moved. Why? Well, God tells us in the 9th chapter, "I have spared you for a purpose, to spread my fame throughout the earth." I don't think the story of liberation would be quite as powerful and world reknown if Moses would have simply gone into Egypt, told Pharoah to let the people go, and Pharoah immediately complied, bowing out gracefully! No, instead, you see a bull-headed man, convinced that He will stand firm against God until the very end...now, the frogs, flies, and locusts make for a whole new incredible story!

It's the same way in my life...If I would have easily given in and been obedient, maybe I wouldn't have quite the testimony I have today. If I hadn't eaten crow, and bit my tongue, and suffered pain, my story wouldn't be quite as powerful. But, God in His grace allowed me some distance, a chance to choose, to try to walk on my own, so that I would see that I have to depend on Him to keep from falling. And because of that, I can do as Jesus instructed Paul, "...go back and strengthen [my] brothers." Because, thankfully, what I have learned can be transferred to others to inspire, encourage, and strengthen! Blessed be the name of the Lord!
24 January 2010, 3:20 pm
Getting ready for church this morning the melodic voice of my oldest daughter rang throughout the house. She is our singer. She loves music- to listen to it, to play it (piano), and to sing it! Every night she even sings herself to sleep. This morning her song of choice was "Free to be me" by Francesca Battastelli.

I like that song, but what I like most about that song is that in this age of feel good about who you are, find the ability to do and be anything within yourself, this song shares a message that says basically that I don't have to be perfect, because in Christ I am free to be me! The power is not found simply within MYSELF, but the power is given by an amazing loving Saviour!

I smiled as I watch her heartfelt worship bursting forth in song...that is exactly the message I want to sink deep into the bone and the marrow, to saturate her heart in truth and acceptance...Christ makes her free...free to be exactly who HE created her to be! And the invitation is offered to each of us without limit and without abandon! Live free... :)
10 January 2010, 7:00 pm
Happy New Year!! . . . and I hope this finds you Healthy, Happy and full of Hope for all that God has ahead for us this year!!    With the dawn of 2010, I certainly feel the reality of the threshhold of an open door - - I sense a certain measure of change ahead in this new year, as with every year, actually.

If we are to TRULY take God at His Word, we must ALL walk in EXPECTATION, anticipating what is AHEAD!!   In Jeremiah 29:11, we read, "For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, to prosper you and not to harm you; plans for a future and a hope."   So how are we walking that out today?   Are we looking for God's plans in our lives?   Or are WE making our plans, and looking for God to sign off on them?   HELLO?!?!

Well, personally, I am EXPECTING an Ephesians 3:20 New Year!! :))   I am believing God for a year that is "EXCEEDINGLY . . . ABUNDANTLY . . . ABOVE ALL . . . that we can ASK or even IMAGINE . . . according to HIS POWER that is AT WORK within us!!"   AMEN?!?!

So, let's GO FOR IT!!!   Look for the signs, and ignore the cost; pursuing God with our whole hearts . . . and TRUSTING HIM WITH THE OUTCOME!! :)   What do you say?!? Blessings!! :))   Jenny
6 January 2010, 12:40 pm
It's a new year, and as always, there is a list of things that each and everyone of us resolve to do. I am not an exception. But, as I was thinking about the last year, and looking forward to this new year, I began to think about all the other things I had "resolved" to do, and well...they didn't exactly happen. For instance, I am not 15 pounds lighter than I was this time last year, I have not taken up piano lessons, I didn't master the art of knitting, and I did not take the time each and every night to write a journal to my daughters! Then I thought, "Maybe if I would take it slower, resolve to do the possible, commit to attaining the necessary, maybe this time next year, I won't look back in shame."

So, this year I am resolving to be easier on myself. To start off, the things that I am committing to do are not only possible, probable and attainable, but they are necessary! Here are the three things that I am focusing on this year:
1. I resolve to wake each and every day to a conversation with God.
2. I resolve to take each day as it comes, not rushing forward or looking back; one day at a time.
3. I resolve to show God's love to someone each and every day.

As I look at the list, I think, that's not so hard, but when I really contemplate what each one of those things means, the time that it will take, the energy it will require...maybe it isn't so attainable! Oh, but it is necessary! So, with jaw clenched and head held high I march into the year...not rushing forward or looking back, one day at a time...afterall, it is what I have resolved to do and do it, I will. You'll see!
3 January 2010, 3:41 pm
Hope this finds all of you blessed and encouraged today, even in the midst of all the hustle and bustle of the season!! First, let me extend a heartfelt, sincere "Merry Christmas!" to each and every one of you . . . and follow that up with the thrilling proclamation that "Jesus Christ IS alive and well today!!" Hallelujah! Again, we can join with the heavenly host saying, "Glory to God in the highest! And on earth, peace, good will to all men!" HE IS HERE!!!

May we allow the glory of God to shine forth through us (and our homes) to the world around us - - in desparate need of the Reason for the Hope that is within us!! The Lord Jesus Christ bless you with the gift of His precious presence this Christmas . . . that each one of us would come to know Him in a new and different way, drawing us closer to His heart and His will for our each one of our lives. I am so thankful to be a small part of your world through His ministry here at 88.7 FM, The Cross!! Stay blessed! Jenny
23 December 2009, 12:54 pm
Today, I am so impressed with all the possibilities of what our world, in our immediate areas and abroad, could look like if we would collectively purpose to move SELF out of the way, and reach out to actually "Give Christmas Away" this year!!   To give away OUR "rights" :   the things we might believe we "deserve" or that someone "owes" us. Then, redirect our passions to lift up those around us as God has SO CLEARLY directed us to do :

Romans 12:10 "Love each other with genuine affection and take delight in honoring one another."   TAKE DELIGHT ... in HONORING one another!! WOW!!

Then, check out Phillipians 2:3 "Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others.   Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves."    In The Message, it reads : "Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends.   Don't push your way to the front, don't sweet-talk your way to the top.   Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead.   Don't be obsessed with getting your own advantage.   Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand."   That sums it all up . . . clearly !!

Is there anything else to say ... to more effectively articulate the heart of God for each one of us as we relate to those around us?! And there's no time like NOW to make the necessary adjustments in our lives . . . to come into line with God's heart . . .  as we celebrate His effort of putting Himself aside. . . and sending His Son, to be our Savior!!!   HALLELUJAH!!!    HE IS WORTHY!! Let us prefer one another!!   :) Jenny
16 December 2009, 1:25 pm
Christmas time is here, and for many it marks a time of true reflection. And for me, this year, marks a monumental moment in my life.

A year ago, I would have never believed it. A year ago, I was facing surgery and grieving its necessity. A year ago, I thought I was losing so much. A year ago, I was sad and burdened and scared. Not a fun place to be. You see, God often takes us to places that knock the breath out of us, humble us to the point that we can't look up, and we are left wondering if we really have a purpose. But, oh! how lovingly He has a way of making it all work out!

This year, I am overwhelmed, and so excited about what the next holds! This next year begins with something new; a dream come true! I am now something that I have dreamed my whole life of being! I am officially a published author! The road hasn't been easy, and I have been highly disillusioned in the process, but it has taught me to put God first, to wait for Him, to acknowledge Him every step of the way, and most of all, never to doubt His calling in my life!

You know, I don't know what He has in store for me, or for my ministry, or for this book. And, maybe it will all fizzle out and dry up...but even if that happens, I know one thing: I am seeking His will. I love Proverbs 19:21. It says this: "Many are the plans in a man's heart, but the Lord's will prevails!" He is a good God! And His plans are precious for His children. So on this night I am reminded of the angels herald, "Glory to God in the highest, peace to all good men on whom His favor rests!"

Merry Christmas, and have a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

13 December 2009, 4:19 pm
YAY!! :)) I love this time of year and all that it represents in my life . . . from childhood to today!! This has always represented a time to pull in to our home and enjoy the blessings of family!! From the food preparations and decorations, to extra opportunities for fellowship and fun, with game times and special visits!!

This year, for the first time, all my children and I are in the Family Church production of The Gospel According To Scrooge - - an amazing Broadway-style holiday event that brings the reality of our need for Jesus into the traditional story of the life of Ebenezer Scrooge!! If you're in the area, you can get tickets online, FREE :), at www.familychurch.org and click on Scrooge! Opening night is this Thursday, running this weekend and next, so plan to come out and join us and bring someone with you!! You'll be blessed!

I pray that all of us, each one, can remain focused on the true meaning of the season and truly value the treasure of those God has granted us to share this life with . . . giving Him the gift of honoring our friends and families and making special moments this year that REALLY COUNT!!

Blessings!! :) Jenny
2 December 2009, 1:46 pm
Yes, it is that time again...and as always A Charlie Brown Christmas is enjoyed over and over and over again at my house. So it is no wonder that song plays in my mind throughout the whole season! Of course, he's in good company with Rudolph and the Grinch, and we can't leave out old Frosty! What I love about putting up the tree and making Christmas goodies and watching Christmas classics isn't really the act itself, but the inclusion of family - namely my girls.

Christmas is a special family time of year. We make an extra effort to spend time together whether it is reading a portion of the Christmas story each night or enjoying cocoa by the fire or just wrapping presents to place under the tree. Christmas is about togetherness, and I think that is precisely the way that God would have it!

So take advantage of it! Run with it! Enjoy it! I know that I will! :)
30 November 2009, 10:07 am
Wow!
I am amazed at God's plans. I never imagined when I called Phillip Brooks to ask if I could come see the new building downtown (they had just moved in -- literally, the paint was still wet)...
...that I would begin a journey that would bring me closer to God in every area of my life, working as a host on a station called 88.7FM The Cross.

I'm moving into a new chapter of my life now, following a calling that I don't completely understand, but that I'm obeying anyway. My wise friend Leslie Lamb says when God directs you, it doesn't always feel easy or smooth, but it always works out... always! I'm walking in that promise. (Romans 8:28)

Thank you to all of you who've shared your car, your home, and your office with me as I've made a journey as a disciple, some of it on the air. Thank you to the callers who've encouraged me along the way, and for the prayer requests that allowed God to use me in a way I could never have realized on my own.

That being said, I may be leaving afternoons, but I promise I'm not going far. We're still looking at what kind of role I can play to help the mission of The Cross, and bring value to the incredible ministry that goes on here. I'll still be filling in from time to time, and you'll definitely hear from me when it comes to Sharathon time!

By the way: you are going to have a blast with Sam Lenox! Give him the encouragement, the love, and yes, the grace he needs as he steps in to fill a new role and a new calling of God on his life to serve you; bringing you God's word, entertaining you, and sharing his heart and his Christian walk with you on the air. (I'm looking forward to it, too!)

Blessings!

Jay
jay@887fm.org
27 November 2009, 6:46 pm
I have to say, all things considered, this IS my favorite time of year . . . continually turning our focus to home, community and fellowship. With school letting out for the holidays, I will not be teaching voice lessons in the afternoons and no basketball games, so I am looking forward to at least SOME "home" time! I am hoping to get some things reorganized that have been let go for crazy schedules, maybe some Christmas decorating and definitely a lot of cooking!! :)) Mmmm! When we're not in rehearsal for the upcoming "Scrooge" production at Family Church in West Monroe ( www.familychurch.org), I also hope to have some fun family times with special treats, popcorn, movies and games!

We, like many of you, will have an empty seat in our family circle, that we are believing God to redeem and restore. So, today, I would encourage you to join us in focusing on what IS . . . and NOT what IS NOT this holiday season. Let's bind our hearts together to bear one another's burdens and agree for the restoration of relationships, according to God's perfect plan. Then, let's also PURPOSE to leave it in His hands to handle, as only He can, so we can be FREE to enjoy the precious 'present' - - the GIFT God has right in front of us this holiday season (and everyday of the year) of our family and friends!!

There may be an empty hole in our hearts, but if we'll let Him, God will fill up the spaces all around it . . . to overflowing!! Let's give Him the opportunity!! If you don't have a church family, let me invite you to join us at Family Church in West Monroe. Let's do our part, by making ourselves available to our families, friends and local church, . . . and I assure you, GOD WILL BE FAITHFUL to do His part!! After all, He's the One who began the whole "relationship" thing - - it's the REASON for the Season and the reason WHY we're here!! TRUST GOD for the blessing of this Season!! HE IS FAITHFUL!! :)) Blessings! Jenny
18 November 2009, 11:13 am
As I was getting started on today's blog, there were so many things coming to mind confirming the continual goodness of God :))   - - and I am ALWAYS up for a "bragging session" on our great God - - but, He gently quickened my heart [ through the music playing on air ] to those who need a ray of hope today. Those who may feel like they are drowning in their circumstances, who need a word of 'TRUTH' to apply to the 'facts' glaring at them in their faces, cheering them on to "KEEP ON FIGHTING - - DON'T GIVE UP!!"

So, allow me to share with you the partial lyrics of a few songs that have just played - - letting you in on why I keep Christian music / worship on, at ALL times :

1000 Generations "You Fail Us Not" :   " ... No matter the war, our hope is secure! You fail us not! ... Whatever may come, we'll rise above!   You fail us not!   You're bigger than the battle has ever been!   You fail us not!"

Kutless   "That's What Faith Can Do" :   " ... You're stronger than you know.   Don't give up now! The sun will soon be shining.  You've gotta face the clouds to find the silver lining. ... Life is so much more than what your eyes are seeing.   You will find your way, if you keep believing.   Overcome the odds when you don't have a chance.    When the world says, "You can't!"   It [faith] says, "YOU CAN!"

Building 429   "Always" : " ... Maybe you're fighting for your life, about to throw the towel in. Hold on! Hold on! Hold on!  ... I believe always, ALWAYS our Savior never fails!   Even when all faith is gone, God knows our pain and His promise remains ... ALWAYS!"

I don't know about you, but on any given day . . . I could be at a place to crater and give up under the weight and the pressures of my world . . . BUT GOD!!   So, keeping music on, whether singing 'ABOUT' or 'TO' the only One Who can DO anything about it and Who truly cares more than I can comprehend, sets my eyes and my heart on HIM, and my hands and feet to DO His will!!

I encourage you today to allow the music of the Word to wash over you, and to direct you to the One Who can save, heal, deliver and restore you . . . making all things new, for His glory!!   Hallelujah!! :)   Jenny
11 November 2009, 1:01 pm