The body always knows what to do to heal itself. The challenge is listening and doing what your body needs.
I was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis in 1997ish, Avascular Necrosis aka Osteonecrosis in my knee in 2014 and Factor V Leiden hetero, and Spondylolisthesis 2005ish
Health Advocate-Health Activist-World Changer
Love photography, cooking, hiking, walking ,traveling and learning to live a new normal since my diagnosis.
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Support Group Avascular Necrosis/Osteonecrosis Support Int’l
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Awareness for Avascular Necrosis & Other Conditions of The Bone and Joints
https://www.facebook.com/AvascularNecrosisAndBoneDiseaseAwareness/
Avascular Necrosis Awareness Day November 29 – working with elected officials to get this recognized in all states
https://www.facebook.com/AwarenessByDebla/
Avascular Necrosis-Osteonecrosis Knowledge and Education
https://www.facebook.com/AvascularNecrosisEducation/
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The sun had barely risen when Sarah placed her last pumpkin loaf on the counter. The house was quiet—too quiet for Thanksgiving morning. For the first time in years, her family was scattered: one child away at Texas A&M college, another living across the country in Maine, a daughter who was angry at a brother chose to stay in Arkansas and her husband working a holiday shift at the hospital.
She sighed, poured herself a cup of cinnamon coffee, and sat by the window. “Lord,” she whispered, “I know this day is supposed to be full of gratitude, but it feels a little empty.”
Just then, her phone buzzed. A message. Then another. Photos from her kids. A silly selfie from her husband. A “Happy Thanksgiving, love you” from an old friend.
As she scrolled, her heart warmed. She remembered what her pastor always said:
“Thanksgiving isn’t about who’s at the table—it’s about Who we’re giving thanks to.”
Sarah set her phone down, folded her hands, and smiled. She wasn’t alone at all. God was with her, filling the quiet house with His peace. She felt wrapped in a gentle presence, like a soft blanket around her shoulders.
And as she bowed her head, her gratitude poured out—not for the feast, or the noise, or the perfect gathering—but for the simple truth that God shows up in every place, every season, every kind of Thanksgiving.
Prayer for Thanksgiving
Heavenly Father,
On this day of gratitude, we thank You for Your goodness, Your presence, and Your unfailing love. Whether we celebrate surrounded by family, gathered with friends, or sitting quietly on our own, remind us that we are never truly alone—because You are always near.
For those who feel lonely today, wrap them in Your comfort. Let Your peace settle gently into their homes and hearts. For those celebrating with others, fill their gatherings with joy, patience, and kindness.
Bless the food, bless the hands that prepared it, and bless every soul reading this prayer. May our hearts be filled with thanksgiving, not just today, but every day, as we remember Your faithfulness.
While it’s wonderful to give during the holidays—whether through donations, volunteering, or acts of kindness—let’s remember that those in need require support every single day, not just during special seasons. Hunger, homelessness, and poverty are issues that persist beyond November and December, and as followers of Christ, we’re called to serve others all year long.
God placed us on this earth to be His hands and feet—to love, serve, and uplift those around us. Giving isn’t limited to a specific time; it’s a lifelong calling. There’s always a way for us to help, whether it’s through financial support, volunteering our time, or simply offering a kind word or a listening ear.
Let’s commit to making service and kindness a part of our daily lives—not just a seasonal act. As we do so, we fulfill God’s purpose and truly live out His love in practical, lasting ways.
A Prayer for Compassion and Service
Heavenly Father, Thank You for reminding us that Your love calls us to serve others continuously. Help us to see beyond ourselves and recognize the needs around us each day. Guide our hearts to be generous, compassionate, and willing to give of our time, resources, and kindness. May we be Your hands and feet, making a difference in someone’s life today and every day. Fill us with your Spirit so that our service reflects Your love and brings glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Quote for Today
“Every act of kindness creates a ripple with no end.”
Mary Magdalene’s story is one of unwavering devotion, joy, and boldness. She is a true testament to the power of deep personal faith and the transformative presence of Jesus in our lives. As a faithful follower, Mary was among the first to witness the empty tomb and to share the incredible news—she was the first to see Jesus risen.
Her story reminds us of the importance of a heartfelt, personal relationship with Jesus. Despite her past, her dedication shines through. Her unwavering loyalty and courage demonstrate how genuine faith can change lives and influence others profoundly. Mary’s witness *signifies her vital role in the early church* and exemplifies what it means to be faithful and bold in our walk with Christ.
Her life encourages us to cultivate a deep devotion to Jesus, to find joy in His resurrection, and to recognize that sharing our testimony can inspire others. Mary Magdalene’s story teaches us that true dedication, no matter how bold, comes from a loving heart committed to the Lord’s mission.
Bible Quote:
Go and tell my brothers and sisters, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.— John 20:17
This verse highlights her significant role in sharing Jesus’ message and her faithfulness in spreading the good news.
Heavenly Father,
Help us to be more like Mary Magdalene faithful, bold, and devoted to You.
May we witness Your love with joy and share Your good news without fear.
Fill our hearts with her unwavering faith and teach us to recognize Your presence in every moment.
Guide us to be witnesses of Your resurrection and lights to others.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Mary Magdalene’s story invites us to deepen our relationship with Jesus, to be courageous in our faith, and to share His love joyfully. Like her, let us be bold witnesses, rooted in devotion and driven by the transformative power of Christ.
References
Luke 8:2-3— Highlights her background as a follower who was delivered from evil spirits, emphasizing her transformation and deep devotion to Jesus.
John 20:11-18— The account of Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb and her encounter with the risen Jesus, showcasing her faith and joy. Mary Magdalene stood outside the tomb crying… Jesus said to her, ‘Mary.’ She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, ‘Rabbi!
Matthew 28:1-10— The scene of Mary Magdalene and the other women discovering the empty tomb and witnessing the resurrection. The women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples.
Mark 16:9-11 – Jesus appears to Mary Magdalene after His resurrection, affirming her importance as a witness. Jesus appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had driven seven demons.
Acts 1:14 — Shows Mary Magdalene among the early followers, united in prayer after Jesus’ ascension, demonstrating her continued faithfulness. They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers
Inconvenient Blessings: Trusting God in Life’s Little Detours
Have you ever experienced a small mishap—a coffee spill on your shirt before work, spilling food in the kitchen, missing your bus, kids causing the entire family to be late, taking the wrong exit, or facing delays in travel—and you felt frustration , anxiety or stress? I want to remind you that these seemingly annoying inconveniences might actually be blessings in disguise.
What feels like a hassle can be God’s way of redirecting us for a purpose. When we’re caught in traffic or delayed, it’s easy to wonder why everything seems to go wrong. But often, these detours protect us from unseen dangers. Maybe you got stuck in traffic and luckily a few minutes earlier this may have been you but you missed an accident that was ahead—or had to turn around and arrived late, preventing a potential injury or worse.
Even in moments where we don’t understand why things happen, we can trust that God is guiding our steps. Sometimes, what disrupts our plans is actually leading us to what’s best for us, even when we can’t see it at the time.
Remember, as Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us—trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. He will direct your paths.
Quote of the Day: “Sometimes, the smallest delays are God’s way of protecting you from bigger storms ahead.”
No matter how inconvenient life gets, trust that you are being led where you’re meant to be. Every detour is divine protection, and every interruption is an opportunity for God’s plan to unfold in your life.
Loving Others: Embracing Grace, Forgiveness, and Purpose
Life is too short to wake up with regrets. So, love the people who treat you right, and cherish those moments of connection. Every day is an opportunity to show kindness, express gratitude, and build meaningful relationships.
Forgiveness is vital. Extend grace to those who’ve done their best—it’s a gift you give to yourself as much as to others. Remember, nobody is perfect, and people are often doing the best they can with what they have.
Believe that everything happens for a reason. Even the setbacks and challenges are part of a bigger picture that shapes us for the better. If a chance comes your way, take it. Life is full of opportunities—some may change your life forever.
If it changes your life, let it. Growth often requires change, and while it may not always be easy, it is worth it.
Quote of the Day: “The greatest gift you can give to someone is your love and understanding.”
Bible Verse: “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” — Ephesians 4:2
Remember, love is powerful. It heals, restores, and transforms. Make every day an opportunity to love deeper and live purposefully. Everyone may not meet “ our” expectations . People do the best they can. And if we want forgiveness then we need to learn to forgive others.
Hagar’s story, found in Genesis 16 and Genesis 21, is one of deep suffering, unexpected divine encounter, and hope. As a servant and mother, Hagar faced rejection, hardship, and displacement. Despite her struggles, she is met by God in the wilderness—a powerful reminder of His omnipresence and care.
In Genesis 16, Hagar flees from Sarah’s mistreatment and finds herself in a desolate place. There, the Angel of the Lord appears to her, asking, “Hagar, servant of Sarah, where have you come from, and where are you going?” (Genesis 16:8). Hagar responds with honesty, and God speaks to her, assuring her of His presence and promising blessing. She is given the name “God Who Sees Me,” because she recognizes that God has seen her in her distress, providing comfort and reassurance.
Later, in Genesis 21, Hagar and her son Ishmael face hardship again due to Sarah’s actions. Despite these difficulties, God hears their cries and provides for them—shepherding them in the wilderness and making a great nation from Ishmael.
Hagar’s narrative teaches us that no one is unseen or forgotten by God. He is ever-present and actively involved in our journeys, especially in our times of pain. Her story reminds us that God sees us—our struggles, our hopes, and our needs—and that His care is unending.
Regarding Genesis 21 and Isaac:
In Genesis 21, the birth of Isaac marks the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham and Sarah that they would have a son in their old age. Sarah, who was previously considered too old to bear children, miraculously gives birth to Isaac, meaning “laughter.” Isaac is born as the child of promise, a testament to God’s faithfulness.
Heavenly Father, thank You for seeing us in our times of need and hardship. Like Hagar, we are grateful that You are always present, hearing our cries and offering comfort. Help us to trust in Your care, knowing that no one is unseen or forgotten by You. Grant us strength and hope as we face our struggles, and remind us that Your love and faithfulness never fail. May we always remember that You see us, and Your presence sustains us. Amen.
Leading with Boldness and Grace — Lessons from Miriam
Miriam, the elder sister of Moses, stands as a shining symbol of courageous leadership, unwavering devotion, and humility in the biblical narrative. Her story, particularly in the Book of Exodus, weaves a powerful tapestry of faith, wisdom, and daring guidance that continues to inspire us today.
But Miriam’s leadership wasn’t just about singing and encouragement; it was about stepping into action with boldness, even in the face of uncertainties. As an elder sister and a prophetess, she guided the people, offered counsel, and demonstrated the importance of trusting God while exercising her God-ordained authority.
After the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea, Miriam led the women of Israel in a triumphant song, celebrating God’s mighty deliverance (“Sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted”). Miriam’s song of victory, recorded in Exodus 15:20-21, echoes through generations, reminding believers of God’s power and faithfulness.
Her story also emphasizes humility. Despite her significant role, Miriam remained submissive to God’s overarching plan and authority. Her life teaches us that true leadership involves balancing confidence with humility and vulnerability before God.
Miriam’s journey rebukes us to lead with grace—not from a place of arrogance but with a heart aligned with God’s purpose. Her example encourages us to serve others boldly, proclaim God’s truths courageously, and walk humbly in our walk with Him.
In modern life, whether in church, community, or workplace, Miriam’s story reminds us that boldness rooted in humility and devotion can have a lasting impact, inspiring others and advancing God’s kingdom.
Reflect: Are we leading with confidence and grace today? Are we willing to sing our own songs of victory and encouragement, trusting in God’s power to guide us and those we serve?
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the inspiring example of Miriam, a woman of courage, wisdom, and unwavering faith. Lord, grant us the strength and boldness to lead where You have placed us, to serve with grace, and to speak truth with authority rooted in Your love.
Help us to balance confidence with humility, recognizing that true leadership is submitted to Your will. May we be guided by Your Spirit to encourage others, uplift the weak, and remain faithful in all circumstances.
Lord, teach us to lead with a heart that seeks Your purpose above all, to sing songs of praise and victory that glorify Your name. Let our lives reflect Miriam’s devotion, inspiring generations to come.
Empower us to serve boldly and humbly, trusting in Your sovereignty. May our voices resonate with Your truth, and our actions mirror Your love.
When you accept Jesus as Lord of your life, you declare your trust and commitment to obey Him because of His incredible love for us. True faith produces obedience—it’s the natural response to God’s grace. As Paul taught in Romans, obedience of faith is vital, and disobedience stems from unbelief. If we truly believe in Jesus, our actions will reflect that belief; we will walk in love.
Reflection and Application:
What does it mean to be connected to Jesus? Being connected to Jesus means trusting Him completely, following His teachings, and allowing His love to guide our actions.
Have you been involved in church or small groups? Engaging in fellowship helps us grow in faith and walk in obedience. If you’re not yet involved, consider joining a community of believers.
Have you been baptized or are working toward it? Baptism is a step of obedience that publicly declares your faith in Christ.
Are you spending regular time with God in His Word and prayer? Daily devotional time helps deepen your relationship with God and reinforces your faith.
What Is True Love? (1 Corinthians 13:4-7) Love is patience, kindness, humility, and endurance. It’s not jealous, boastful, proud, rude, self-seeking, easily angered, or keeps records of wrongs.
Most challenging? Being patient and forgiving is often hardest to practice. Because people can hurt our feelings, especially those we love. When they are mean to us or do foolish things.
How to allow the Spirit to produce this love? Pray daily, ask the Holy Spirit to fill you with love, and practice these qualities intentionally.
The Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) Love is just one fruit of the Spirit. Others include joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
What qualities need growth? If you notice a lack of patience or gentleness, ask the Spirit to cultivate these traits.
How to let the Spirit work? Stay close to God through prayer and Bible study, and be receptive to His guidance.
Loving God and Others Jesus summarized the greatest commandments: Love God and love your neighbor.
Why two commands? Because loving God naturally leads to loving others, and vice versa. They’re inseparable.
What does it mean to love God with all your heart, soul, and mind? To love Him completely—putting Him first in everything, seeking His will, and obeying His Word.
How does loving God influence loving others? It fills us with His love, making us more compassionate, forgiving, and patient.
Who is my neighbor? Anyone in need—family, friends, strangers, even those difficult to love.
Who are the people in your life who may not feel loved?
Living in Full Obedience Obedience to God isn’t optional; it’s about living all His Word—both the easy and the hard parts. Don’t come to church for appearances or pick what fits your lifestyle. Live fully in His love, practicing what He teaches, and let His Spirit guide you toward genuine obedience.
Heavenly Father, Guide our hearts and minds to walk faithfully in Your way. Help us to be obedient to Your will and draw closer to You each day. Fill us with Your Spirit so that we may shine Your light brightly to others, illuminating their paths with love and truth. May our lives be a beacon of hope and grace, bringing glory to Your name. Amen.
Sarah: A Testament of Faith, Patience, and Divine Promise
Sarah’s journey is a powerful story of faith, patience, and God’s miraculous power. Her life teaches us that even when circumstances seem impossible, trusting in God’s promises and timing can lead to divine fulfillment. Her story, primarily found in Genesis 12, 18, and 21, offers timeless lessons about hope and unwavering trust in God’s plan.
Her Name and Role
Originally called Sarai, which means “my princess,” God changed her name to Sarah as part of a divine covenant, declaring she would be the “mother of many nations.” She was the wife of Abraham, and together they traveled from Ur to Canaan in obedience to God’s call. Sarah is recognized as one of the four great matriarchs of the Jewish faith, symbolizing faith and trust in God’s promises.
Her Struggles and Doubts
For many years, Sarah eagerly desired children, but she remained infertile well into her old age. She was 90 years old when she finally conceived Isaac—an astonishing miracle that defied human expectations. Throughout her years of waiting, Sarah experienced doubt and disbelief, famously laughing when she overheard God’s promise that she would bear a son. Her laughter was mixed with both skepticism and joy, illustrating the complex emotions we face when God’s promises seem far beyond our reach.
In Genesis 18, we see her doubting God’s promise as she laughs quietly to herself, thinking, “After I am worn out and my lord is old, will I now have this pleasure?” Yet, despite her doubts, God’s promise remained true.
The Conflict with Hagar
In her impatience and desire for God’s promise, Sarah gave her maidservant, Hagar, to Abraham, hoping to facilitate the birth of a child. Hagar’s pregnancy led to jealousy and conflict—something many of us can relate to when plans don’t unfold as expected. Eventually, Sarah and Hagar’s relationship became strained, resulting in Hagar fleeing into the wilderness. This part of her story reminds us that when we try to help God along, we often face unintended consequences, and trusting in His timing is crucial.
The Birth of Isaac and Her Legacy
God’s promise was fulfilled in His perfect timing. Despite her advanced age, Sarah conceived and gave birth to Isaac, fulfilling the divine promise made to Abraham. Her laughter of doubt turned into a joyful expression of faith and gratitude. Isaac was a son of promise, a symbol of hope and God’s unwavering covenant.
Sarah’s story is a testament that God’s promises are infallible, even when human circumstances suggest otherwise. Her life encourages us to hold onto hope with faith—that God’s timing is perfect, and His promises will come to pass.
What We Can Learn from Sarah
Trust in God’s promises, even when they seem impossible.
Be patient and wait on God’s timing, not our own.
Understand that doubt is natural, but faith can overcome it.
Remember that God works through our weaknesses and doubts to strengthen our faith.
Embrace hope as a divine gift, knowing that God’s plans exceed our understanding.
Reflecting on Genesis 12, 18, and 21
Sarah’s story reminds us that faith involves trusting God’s Word and His promises, regardless of how long the wait may be. Her journey from doubt to joy teaches us that God’s plans are always for our good, and His promises are sure—even when we feel uncertain and fearful.
A Prayer for Faith and Patience
Heavenly Father, thank You for the inspiring story of Sarah—her faith, her doubts, her perseverance, and Your divine faithfulness. Help us to trust You fully, even when Your promises seem far away or impossible from our perspective.
Teach us patience as we wait on Your perfect timing. Strengthen our faith so we can believe in Your Word beyond our limitations and circumstances. Remind us that You are the God of miracles, and nothing is too difficult for You.
Help us to hold onto hope, regardless of how long the wait, and to remember that You are always working for our good. Fill us with peace as we trust in Your promises, and give us the courage to believe with unwavering faith.
Guide us, Lord, to walk in obedience and trust, knowing that Your plans for us are greater than we can imagine. Thank You for Your mercy and grace, demonstrated so powerfully through Sarah’s life.
Eve: The Mother of All Humanity – Her Life, Lessons, and Legacy
Eve holds a unique place in biblical history as the first woman and the mother of all humankind. Created by God from Adam’s rib, she was designed to be a companion and helper—reflecting God’s love and creativity. Her life begins in perfect harmony within the Garden of Eden, where she walks with God and enjoys a life of abundance.
However, even in paradise, Eve faced a crucial test of responsibility and trust. When the serpent tempted her to doubt God’s command not to eat from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, she made a choice that would change everything. She succumbed to temptation, ate the forbidden fruit, and shared it with Adam. Her decision introduced sin into the world, resulting in pain, toil, and separation from God’s perfect presence.
Attributes and Lessons from Eve
Eve’s story reveals both her strengths and her weaknesses. She was created with intelligence, curiosity, and the ability to make choices. Her willingness to listen and respond—though misguided—shows her capacity to learn and grow. Even after her mistake, she faced the consequences with humility, and her life became a testimony of human fallibility and God’s mercy.
From her life, we learn that responsibility lies with us when making decisions. Eve’s choices remind us to trust in God’s Word and rely on His guidance rather than our own understanding. Although she failed to listen to God and was persuaded and tricked by Satan, she also displayed an important attribute: the ability to accept accountability and seek redemption.
Her Legacy and Her Children
Eve’s life continued after her fall, and she became the mother of many children. Some of her most notable offspring include:
Cain: The firstborn, a farmer who later murdered his brother Abel.
Abel: The shepherd who offered a faithful sacrifice to God and was tragically killed by Cain.
Seth: Born after Abel’s death, seen as a continuation of God’s righteous line.
Other children: Genesis 4 and 5 mention that Eve had many sons and daughters, making her the ancestor of all humanity.
Eve’s legacy as the “mother of all living” (Genesis 3:20) underscores that, despite her mistakes, she was chosen by God to be the beginning of the human family. Her life reflects both human frailty and God’s unending grace.
What We Can Learn from Eve Today
Eve’s story encourages us to accept responsibility for our decisions and to trust God fully. When faced with temptation, we should choose obedience, remembering that God’s guidance leads to life and peace. Her life reminds us that failure is not final; God’s mercy is greater than our mistakes. With humility and faith, we can rise again, learn, and grow closer to God each day.
A Short Prayer for Obedience
Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Eve—her life, her mistakes, and her lessons. Help us to trust and obey You in all we do. Strengthen us when we face temptation, and give us the humility to turn back to You when we falter. Guide us to walk faithfully and live in obedience to Your Word. May we always seek to honor You with our choices. In Jesus’ name, we pray.
Joyful-Echoes 