My husband and I 'ran off' to the coast last week for a couple days. What is it about the restless sea that settles my spirit and speaks peace to me? I grew up in Monterey County and the beaches at Pacific Grove are my refuge. As I was walking along the boardwalks at Asilomar Beach I could feel the weight leaving me. I think it is because the ocean is SOOO big and our God holds it all in His hands. I feel safe there, knowing God is holding me as well.
I came home and, of course, went out to my garden to check out the flowers. My roses are so gorgeous this year. Especially beautiful and fragrant are my Mr. Lincolns. They are as big as a salad plate. Thank you, Jesus, for roses and lilies and daffodils...
Thank you to all my friends for checking in with me. I love you all and we'll will make it through this valley together.
Your friend,
Janiver
About Me
- Janiver
- My first priority has always been my relationship with God. I remember, even as a little girl, running to His arms with my needs. I have been married to a wonderful man, Clayton Brown, for 30 years. He pastors full time and works part time and still manages to put our family in the right place in his heart. I have four wonderful children. Stanley, 26, is attending Sac State accelerated Nursing Program. He is a great listener and I love him for his big brother skills. Bethany, 23, is attending CSU Sacramento and is a 4th year Speech Pathology Student. She has a wonderful rapport with children and we are hoping that her field of study will grow into a career with kids. She teaches Sunday School and works at Jamba Juice part time. She is the most gentle and loving person you will ever meet. Sarah, 21, works full time as an Office Manager. She is full of life and adds drama to our lives. Nathaniel, 17, is a senior in High School and works at In and Out. We love his wit and charm. He is the perfect little brother.
7 comments:
One of the songs on my CD, is How Big Is God? It was written in the 1950's by Doris Akers. Here are the lyrics:
How big is God? Bigger than the ocean; taller than a tree; broader than a river; deeper than the sea; higher than a mountain, but not too far away, to hear when we pray,
How big is God? He can hold the world in the palm of His hand, He can blow His breath and make a storm throughout the land, He knows when we are right, and He knows when we are wrong, He makes us strong
Chorus:
His ears can hear, every plea, and His eyes our every problem see, His voice can make one command, and be heard by every living man. How big is God? Oh, what a question, we should realize, God can’t be measured by any certain size, It’s what He is to us, and just remember this, That’s how big God is.
I, too, love the ocean and have often wondered how its restlessness gives me a peaceful feeling. I have even wondered if Jesus thought it was peaceful when He got up to calm the storm and said, "Peace, be still." The comma has always made me think he addressed the ocean as "Peace." I'm glad you and your husband had a nice getaway. You definitely deserve it. You are still in my prayers.
I just stumbled onto your blog. Tremayne and I have been praying for you! We well remember the lovely day you showed us during our deputational time in Napa and of course the home away from home as we prepared for our sons wedding. Remember the mission family is praying!
I'm so glad you two got to get away for a few days. The ocean and the redwoods and pines are very calming. We too have Mr. Lincoln Roses, and they are just thriving this year as are all our roses, it seems. Continuing to uphold you in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Karen Mester
Hi Sis. Brown,
Glad you were able to go to the coast for a little getaway. I so enjoy the ocean too. I don't know if our roses here are Mr. Lincolns or not, but they sure are beautiful and fragrant. We love you and pray for you often.
Love,
all us Connells
Ocean and Roses - what a wonderful combination. Love the ocean as it does speak to the soul, that's for sure. And I love roses. Our yard is filled with their beauty and fragrance too. Our roses are also large this year, which is such a treat. God knows just what we need, doesn't He? So glad you could get away for a couple of days. You are continually in prayers. With love.
I am glad you got some time to get away with Bro. Brown. The ocean is my favorite place to relax and clear my head. I love the perpetual movement that encourages me to keep pushing forward, never quit.
We continually pray for you and believe!
Hello, Janiver--
Our roses up here in Crestline are by behind yours. Only one is showing a bud--a tiny scarlet flower.
Anytime I visit the ocean, I always have the same thought--that of perpetuation...Even though I was not watching, the ocean had continued foaming and roaring, and the tides are still predictable, and the wet beach and the noisy gulls are still there. Love it.
Love you and Brother Brown and all your "babies."
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