To God, the Father...

To God, the Father, Who Has Given Me All That I Am Thankful For ...

Born too soon, I have felt that all my successes have been delayed. At birth, everyone gave up on me, but You knew I had a purpose. As all earthly efforts failed, You breathed life into me. This knowledge has always encouraged me to stay steadfast in never giving up. (1 Corinthians 15:58)

I appreciate how our conversations have been embedded within the contents of my dreams. How I chuckle when I think back to the dream I had at twelve years old: You were sitting on our living room couch. It was dark, except for the glare of the television. I could not see your face, but I knew who You were. I served You catfish and orange soda that I spilled as I set it down in front of You. "I'm sorry, God!" I apologized through tears, immediately trying to clean up the mess. You simply replied, "Do not worry, child." Your words still comfort me to this day. (Matthew 6:25-34)

You have been ever-present in my life with love. I was most aware of this fact when I went on that college Spring Break volunteer retreat to Appalachia during the week of Easter. We volunteered at a community center during the day and attended church services each evening. Lord, I felt your presence in the songs we sang and in the act of washing our neighbor's feet just as Christ did. On Good Friday, they took the cross off the altar to symbolize the world without Christ. On Easter Sunday, the cross would be placed back on the altar to celebrate the fact that Christ had risen and overcome the world. On that Saturday night, we had a candlelight vigil. People were welcome to come in and pray. In the quiet chapel, I prayed. When I looked up, I saw the face of Jesus Christ in the reflection of the flickering candles against the cloth covering the cross. I will never forget that experience. I felt You there in the chapel with me. That is one of the most memorable experiences of my life. (Numbers 6:24-26)

I praise You for always guiding me to what I am called to do. From the vivid scenes and insightful words in my dreams to the flowing inspirations sent to me during writing spells, I know the great words come from You, Lord. Thank you for always being in my corner when my back is against the wall. You carry me through each dark phase. You are All-Knowing. When I feel that I don't have a voice, I know that You are listening attentively to my silent prayers. (1 John 5:14-15)

Thank You, Lord, for showing me over and over how the depths of Your love cannot be measured. Throughout my life's time, You have edified me increasingly. You are my fortress through every kind of storm life has thrown my way. You have led me up and over molehills and mountains. Together, we have traversed tattered tracks and bridges burgeoning with brightness! (Ephesians 3:1-21)

I am so grateful that I have always had Knowledge of You in my life. Thank You for blessing me with a family of believers. Even when I mess up and go off track, You lead me back with Your Light. Songs of Worship -new and old - remind me of Your infinite power and compassion for all. With every season, I grow wiser in knowing that the gift You gave to me is to be shared with all. (Psalm 32:7 and Matthew 5:16)

Hallelujah!

Let me continue to praise and honor You, Lord, by living up to the meaning of my name,

Alexis - "Helper of Mankind"