Blessed are the flexible, for they will not easily be broken.  This thought helps me through many situations as they arise.  Whether it is my kid’s school calling to say they need to reschedule my appointment with the teacher for the second time, or finding out my doctor’s office sent me a bill much bigger than they should have which I will need to work out, I need flexibility.   (I also need to act nice on the phone.)

 Soon, we will move into a new auditorium at church and we will all need flexibility.  Things may not go the way we think they should.  We may have to walk a bit further.  Blessed are the flexible.  Someone may be sitting in the seat I thought I would sit in.  Blessed are the Flexible.   Someone may be parked where I wanted to park.  Blessed are the flexible.  It may take standing in line for a bit longer than I want, in order to pick up my children during the transition time.  Blessed are the flexible.  My ministry area may be affected by the remodel (soon to come) on the old auditorium which will become the new youth auditorium.  Blessed are the flexible.

 So, why be flexible?  Sometimes it is good to reflect on why we are doing the things we are doing.  Personally, it is good to be flexible for our own personal witness for Christ.   As a church, our members need flexibility because it has an impact on our community.  We could ask ourselves, “What business am I in?” and, “How is business?”  (We are in the “moving people toward God” business.  We are in the “loving people into a relationship with God” business.) 

 I think you could say that there are two kinds of people in the world.  There are those who are lost and have ruin and wreckage in their lives. (which is all of us at least some of the time) and there are those who have a heart to reach the lost people who have ruin and wreckage in their lives.  Sometimes it takes flexibility to reach others.  Other people’s needs often do not come at a convenient time for us. 

I experienced a rude young women a few weeks ago at church.  I don’t know if she was a Christian or not, but I tried to be “flexible” in my dealings with her.  Blessed are the Flexible. J

 Reaching out with grace takes work and patience and sometimes, remembering to be flexible.

 God Bless you!

 Thora

I know I shouldn’t complain about the cold.  After all, other parts of the country are facing blizzards.  Nevertheless, I’m ready for spring.   I’m ready to stop using my electric blanket (yes, I am a wimp), stop wearing a jacket, and stop having my fingers cold all the time.  I’m sure my teenage sons are ready for me to stop driving them to school in my pink bathrobe.  (I’m saving now for their therapy sessions)

The weather report shows we might be headed into warmer weather next week, and I’m ready for it!

As we move into a new season, I always find myself ready for some changes.  I’m ready to fill my hanging baskets with pansies, clean my windows and put out a decorative flag in my garden.   The spring cleaning bug is hitting.

It’s also the time when I think about getting outside more with my family.  Knowing how short this beautiful spring season really is, I want to make the most of it.  For today’s post, I want to share some ideas for getting outside with friends and family and enjoying God’s beautiful creation. 

Here are some suggestions on things to do outside:

Hiking:    We’ve got some great hiking paths around town.  I encourage you to do some research and discover a new trail.  Two of our family favorites are the White Tanks and South Mountain.  You can read about some local hiking trails on the Phoenixgovernment site.  http://phoenix.gov/PARKS/hikemain.html  I also recommend buying travel guides.  We have one that lists 100 best Arizona hikes.  We bought it years ago when our children were small, and it is still good today. 

Picnics:  What could be more fun than a Saturday or Sunday afternoon picnic?  Invite some friends, set up a grill and have a cookout.  If you’ve never been to Encanto Park in central Phoenix, I encourage you to check it out.  It’s got a lake, a small amusement park and lots of grass.  It will give you a taste of old-time Phoenix.  Or, visit Papago Park by the zoo. 

Desert drives:  One of my favorite places to drive to is the Cavecreek/Carefree area.  I love the desert around there, and it’s always fun to get out for an ice cream cone, and a walk around some interesting shops.

Zoo:  Don’t forget the Phoenix Zoo or the World Wildlife Zoo.

Horseback Riding:  Although it’s just a trail ride, there are many places to ride horses around Phoenix.  Do an Internet search to find some.  Last year we did one around Arizona State University.  The corral is just off the 202 and Rural. 

Now it’s your turn.  Please post your favorite thing to do outside.  I’d love to hear if there are any farmer’s markets  or festivals you can recommend, or any other fun way to experience our beautiful state.

With “warmest” wishes,

Glynnis Whitwer

www.GlynnisWhitwer.com