Lily of the Valleys ~ Song of Solomon 2:1

Lily of the Valleys ~ Song of Solomon 2:1

Lily of the Valleys ~ Song of Solomon 2:1

Shoshanna ~ Hebrew name for Susan

The new Signature for all my art work comes from the verse above; below is my study and explanation for how it came to be, on October 6, 2011.

I do not know if I can do this justice, explaining to you how excited I was yesterday, when my prayers were answered... the prayer of my heart, concerning the name and how I should/would at some point  in time, sign my art work.

I had begun using only my initials...

Sp

then to my full name...  

S Parent

but I was not completely satisfied. I had in the past thought and prayed to the Lord for a way to give Him Glory my gift and a way to evangelize with my work. I also wanted to take the attention off myself, to show humility, (knowing that He could remove the gift as quickly as He had given it to me, in other words, it was His to do with as He willed) but I wanted to turn the work of my hands back over to the Lord and bring the focus back to the Him.

Well, while visiting my daughter and her husband in North Carolina last month, I had gone with them to a "Feed the Hunger" Pack-a-thon being held at their church in their fellowship hall. While setting up for the event, I was mesmerized by the most beautiful hand-painted mural on a wall of the room. Upon careful inspection of the mural, which was magnificent, I looked for the signature of who had painted it, but instead of finding the name of a person, I found the phrase "Hidden in Christ" with a quote from Colossians, a book from the New Testament. I now, was so excited and interested in finding out who this was.

I immediately searched for my daughter to ask her who painted this masterpiece, which was, in a picture, some of the events from the Old Testament. She told me his name, which I wouldn't know, and said he always painted beautiful things, and had done this for their church as a gift. He no longer attended their church. But, I did ask her about his signature, and if he always signed all his work this way, and she replied, "Yes". I was so excited and I shared with her, how I had always wanted to do something similar and how beautifully humble, I thought his choice of signature was to the Lord and to me.

So, from that point forward, I was completely focused on praying about my signature, and what the Lord would have me use, for His Glory... a name that would bring testimony to him and give me a chance to evangelize at the same time.

After coming home, the following week, I had gone to spend time with my girlfriends, fellow artists. We had set time aside to work on whatever the Lord had put on our hearts, along with the fellowship we'd all enjoyed together.

While there yesterday, Thursday, October 6, 2011, I asked the women if they would pray for me about this name situation I've described above. They all agreed they would. Not too long, just a few minutes went by and one of my girlfriends, Pastor, Carol Shannon, said: "Song of Solomon"! I said, what? She said, yes the Book of "The Song of Solomon" in the Old Testament; that is where your name is, for your signature that you just asked us to pray for. I said, oh, how exciting! Ok, thank you!

Well, then I couldn't stop thinking about it, and was very excited. Immediately it had connected with me in my spirit and I knew she was right. I asked her if she had been given anything to go with it, knowing already it came from the Lord, did you get a specific Scripture in the book; and she said, no, that's all I got, just "Song of Solomon". So, with that, I couldn't wait to get home and start to read it and see what popped out at me, from the Lord.

And, as soon as I got home, that is exactly what I did; I opened the closest Bible I could find, right there next to me where I was sitting with my water color, I was finishing from that morning. I opened to the Book of "The Song of Solomon" and starting reading through it. I knew instantly, one thing for sure; the numbers or number (#) must be important and significant Biblically for me, as I love the study of numbers, and understand their importance in everything.

I shuffled through the pages, until I came across this verse in "The Song of Solomon 2:1", Chapter two and verse one. Yes I thought to myself, two and one, three! Perfect... (I will let you dig that meaning up for yourselves <3)
I loved it... and the Amplified Version is shown below for your convenience, which was exactly what I had been looking for. I knew it was for me.
Here is the verse in the Bible:

Song of Solomon 2:1

Amplified Bible (AMP)

 ¹[SHE SAID] I am only a little rose or autumn crocus of the plain of Sharon, or a [humble] lily of the valleys [that grows in deep and difficult places].

 I was so excited that I could hardly contain myself, so, I called Carol, and told her all about it; how I had found my signature, right where she said I would, in the Book of "The Song of Solomon". I thanked her, and so, Viola', further below you will find all the meanings behind my name, signature, and the verse.

I do not believe anything like this is by chance... including the fact that my mother and father named me, Susan; which in Hebrew means - Shoshanna - or Lily of the Valleys. IRONIC! By chance? No, I don't think so... then my mother came to visit today, as I am writing this; I explained all these things to her, and the meanings; I was so happy and thanked her for my name; for the first time having really understood what God had planned. As you can imagine, she was thrilled as well, and wants to start calling me "Shoshanna".
This is now, to be my new signature, from the day I found it, which was yesterday afternoon, October 6th, 2011...

Lily of the Valleys ~ Song of Solomon 2:1

Lily of the Valleys ~ Song of Solomon 2:1

Shashannah

Shoshannah - Hebrew name for Susan

GENDER: Feminine

USAGE: Hebrew, Biblical Hebrew

OTHER SCRIPTS: שׁוֹשַׁנָּה (Hebrew)
Meaning & History
http://www.behindthename.com/name/shoshannah (see more below)

Susan is a feminine given name, a form of Susanna, deriving originally from Middle Egyptian "sšn" (lotus flower), first reported on an 11th Dynasty sarcophagus dating from approximately 2000 B.C. However, the Hebrew root for the name for the lily, שושן is derived from the root שוש or ששנ , meaning "to be joyful, bright, or cheerful", which is the basis for the word and name ששון Sasson, meaning "joy of life*". The Persian name for lily is سوسن sausan. The name of Susa, an ancient city of Persia, may be derived from the lilies which abounded in the plain in which it was situated. 

 

 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Susan_(given_name)

Lily of the Valley

Convallaria majalis ( /ˌkɒnvəˈlɛəriə məˈdʒeɪlɨs/),^[1] commonly known as the lily of the valley or lily-of-the-valley, is a poisonous woodland flowering plant native throughout the cool temperate Northern Hemisphere in Asia and Europe.

It is possibly the only species in the genus Convallaria (or one of two or three, if C. keiskei and C. transcaucasica are recognised as separate species). In the APG III system, the genus is placed in the family Asparagaceae, subfamily Nolinoideae (formerly the family Ruscaceae^[2]). It was formerly placed in its own family Convallariaceae, or earlier, like many lilioid monocots, in the lily family Liliaceae.

A limited native population occurs in Eastern USA (Convallaria majalis var. montana).^[3] There is, however, some debate as to the native status of the American variety.^[4]

 
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lily_of_the_Valley

Here is the verse in the Bible:

Song of Solomon 2:1

Amplified Bible (AMP)

 ¹[SHE SAID] I am only a little rose or autumn crocus of the plain of Sharon, or a [humble] lily of the valleys [that grows in deep and difficult places].

Lily of the Valley

"Lily of the valley is known for its delicate, cup-like, pure white flowers and its light and crisp fragrance. The Beloved in Song of Solomon compares herself to one of these after she has heard her lover declare how ravished he is with her. In the spiritual sense, lily speaks of purity of heart."

1/4 oz Lily of the Valley Oil

www.abbaoil.com

Psalm 45:8

Amplified Bible (AMP)

⁸Your garments are all fragrant with myrrh, aloes, and cassia; stringed instruments make You glad.

   Spring Lily of the valley in water

It also, just happens to be that, the Lily of the Valley, is used as an anointing oil.

Christian legend

The flower is also known as Our Lady's tears, since, according to Christian legend, the lily of the valley came into being from Eve's tears after she was driven with Adam from the Garden of Eden,^[12] although this seems unlikely, since in Catholic parlance, "Our Lady" refers to the Virgin Mary. Another Christian legend states that Mary's tears turned to lily of the valley when she cried at the crucifixion of Jesus, and because of this it is also known as Mary's tears. According to another legend, lilies of the valley also sprang from the blood of Saint Leonard of Noblac during his battles with a dragon.

The name "lily of the valley" is also used in some English translations of the Bible in Song of Songs 2:1, although whether or not the Hebrew word "shoshana" (usually denoting a rose) originally used there refers to this species is uncertain.

It is a symbol of humility in religious painting. Lily of the valley is considered the sign of Christ's second coming. The power of men to envision a better world was also attributed to the lily of the valley.

 

I find all this so very interesting... that a name, my name, has so much meaning. I am glad I pursued this and also very happy you have joined me in this venture. 

I hope you will visit again, to see what is coming next... 

 

I wanted to relate some interesting information on the High Feast Days that we are actually right in the midst of now, specifically the Feast of Atonement. There are three Feasts considered the Days of Awe, being The Feast of Trumpets, The Feast of Atonement and The Feast of Tabernacles, all with tremendous meaning. I do NOT want to do them any injustice, so I will defer to completing my studies, for now, but urge you to look into them yourselves. I hope to get these out to you in a timely fashion for next year. 

Shalom, 

Blessings, Sz

Sz 

Lily of the Valleys ~ Song of Solomon 2:1

Shashannah 

If you would like to see some of the pictures I have recently added to my gallery, see my last blog of this October 2011 on the sidebar of this page, called: 

Sketching ~ Painting ~ Creating ~ I Love Art

http://susies4evereternallythankful.blogspot.com/2011/10/sketching-painting-creating-i-love-art.html

A few more details to the actual name, Shoshonnah below...

Latin text Shoshannah
Hebrew text
 שׁוֹשַׁנָּה

1. שׁ
   Sh 
   
2. שׁו
   Shv 
   
3. שׁוֹ
   Sho 
   
4. שׁוֹשׁ
   Shosh 
   
5. שׁוֹשַׁ
   Shosha 
   
6. שׁוֹשַׁן
   Shoshan 
   
7. שׁוֹשַׁנּ
   Shoshann 
   
8. שׁוֹשַׁנָּ
   Shoshanna 
   
9. שׁוֹשַׁנָּה
   Shoshannah

Sketching ~ Painting ~ Creating ~ I Love Art

Sketching ~ Painting ~ Creating ~ You Name It ~ I Love Art

Something about being creative in so many ways, appeals to me almost in a spiritual way. Not only do I relax when sketching, painting, creating, decorating crafts, needlepoint, sewing, playing the piano, singing, gardening or whatever it is that I am doing, fell at home within myself. It is though  was meant to do these things and without them something is missing. So, over the years, I have enjoyed these projects and many that are not here, because I have given them as gifts and not thought of taking pictures until recently. But, as I continue on this path, I know I am where I belong.

Below are some pieces I've done in the past... Enjoy

I am still working on my technique with watercolor, trying to decide how I like using them, best. I seem to keep going back to a certain way of painting, no matter what medium I am using, acrylics, oils, watercolor or sketching. You will see below, what I mean. Thank you for coming along so I can share with you my heart. 

Galary

 The Front Porch of my Dreams

 A random Lighthouse looking through a window

 Daffodils

Monarch Butterfly ~ so much meaning to me

Winter Cardinal, Evergreen, Holly Berries, w/Sled & Ice Skates ~ Water Color on October 13, 2011 ~ by Lily of the Valleys, Song of Solomon 2:1 ~ Shoshannah


Here are some Sketches I've done...

Clem ~ One of my favorite Actors ~ Red Skelton

Clipped out of a magazine, cut in half, I sketched the other side

Hummingbird in Flowers

 My Granddaughter ~ while her sister is at practice
~ we're in the car ~ raining outside

Rough Sketch of Watercolor above

 Proverbs 25:11 A word fitly spoken is like Apples of Gold in Settings of Silver.
After reading this proverb, this picture just came into my head, so spontaneously, as many times my sketches are, I went for an apple, place it in my own hand, and went to town.

Proverbs 3:13,14
Happy is the man who finds skillful and Godly Wisdom, and the man who gets Understanding; for the gaining of it is better than the getting of Silver and the profit of it is better than Fine Gold.
Again, here, after reading a proverb one early Fall morning in 2011, this picture came into my mind.

 Random Chair with Man's Shirt

Anatomy

 Indian Chief

 Baby of a friend ~ Sofie

 Women ~ Random sittings

Playing guitar ~ Victorian

 Victorian Woman ~ Random Pose

Country Cottage ~ Bridge over Stream 


Acrylics

Faux Marble Acrylic Finish ~ Chessboard Design in-bed in tabletop

Tin-punch Toll Painting ~ Acrylic ~ Country Farm

 Some Of My Oils 
(Many I have given away )

 Portrait of my Granddaughter

 Afghan Girl in Red

 Winter Cottage

 Portrait of my Daughter & Son-In-Law

Portrait of Child

Flying Cloud Sailed around Cape Horn in the 1800's ~ a gift for my husband
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clipper
The Flying Cloud ~ Very Interesting Story behind the ship and it's time. http://www.google.com/imgres?q=Flying+Cloud+Sailed+around+Cape+Horn+in+the+1800%27s&hl=en&rlz=1C1TSND_enUS425US425&biw=1138&bih=555&tbm=isch&tbnid=q0qX7ItYQ0r1tM:&imgrefurl=http://www.ship-paintings.com/age_of_sail.htm&docid=nvAjZwpZRbjzdM&w=150&h=99&ei=5ICLTpWnKIr10gGZkIXUBA&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=417&vpy=328&dur=1306&hovh=79&hovw=120&tx=74&ty=37&page=3&tbnh=79&tbnw=120&start=31&ndsp=8&ved=1t:429,r:5,s:31

Until next time, thanks for stopping by.

Blessings,

Sz

PS Stop again in a while to see what I've added, or better yet, sign up for email updates for my latest blogs!

Amtrak Train Tip to NC

Amtrak Train Tip to NC

On my way to see my grandsons, Daughter and her Husband in North Carolina!

Thinking back to my wait in the 30^th Street Train Station in Philadelphia, before I got on the train, I found it very interesting to watch and listen to the people all around me. There was one man in particular who was being led to sit next to me by a Red Cap guide (Red Cap are those in the station employed to help people with bags, handicapped and the like) with a walking stick who was obviously blind. He sat right next to me...  there were conversations going on all around us. There were several people sitting with us on this bench, and all talking with one another,  I went into my people loving/analyzing/evangelical mode. As I sat there considering what if anything I wanted to say to him, I thought how interesting it was that people in general, were so easily accustomed to speaking with each other as long as there wasn't anything uncomfortable about a situation... I thought instantly, about how often we do not come out of our comfort zone and wanted to speak with him to comfort him, and make him feel accepted and loved as a person, knowing he was hearing all the conversation around him.

So, as quickly as those thoughts went through my mind, I decided I would speak with him, after praying about it I simply said, “Hi, is your train expected to depart shortly?” He immediately and politely responded to me, with a smile, “Yes, any minute, now.” I was happy that I was received, so well. I returned the comment, oh, good then you don't have a long wait... my train isn't expected for a while yet.” Then there was a minute or two, and a call was announced for a train which was about to depart, and the words, “All Aboard, last call for train #107”. He stood up so quickly, with such a look of concern on his face... stepped forward, turning his head all around as though he was looking for someone. I knew it had to have been the man/Red Cap Guide who brought him here from the start, and I started to look around for him, too, knowing this man couldn't see! The Red Cap worker was no where to be seen. The men taking the luggage for him and others were moving, as he called out to all those who were going with him, to follow along as he headed for the elevator. The man next to me, looked even more concerned, and I as well for him. Still no one coming to his aid. So, I stood up, next to him, to assure him that if he needed help I would come to his aid, and find someone for him to take him to his train, when along came the Red Cap Employee who brought him here to this seat, racing from the other side of the Hugh train station, looking directly at him, so I knew he was good to go... and before I needed to say or do anything, the two were on their way to his train. It all happened so quickly, but I was happy for him, and within myself I had been praying someone would come to him as they did. The relief in his face spoke a thousand words! Now I could relax and wait for my train. I don't know why, but it was very important to me, almost as though I was to look after him, in my heart, truly, and so I did. I sincerely believe we are our brother's keeper.

Immediately after that, three (3) little birds, another biblical number (Father, Son and Holy Spirit among other meanings), flew through the train station, and landed 20 feet in front of me. What a joy, so cute! I thought to myself, how about that, three of them, and right in front of me... what are the chances... it was as if God was delighted and wanted to share it with me. It certainly did make me joyful, so I took out my iPod to take a picture and  they were gone. I wanted to take a short video clip of them in the station, but it happened too fast.

The train station, itself, was absolutely beautiful. I love old buildings, and the ornate way they used to be built. I took some pictures of the building, and my surroundings, and before I knew it I was being escorted, to my train, as well by some friendly Red Cap workers. Again, there seemed to be a concern for a young girl who was traveling with a lot of luggage who was missing when it was time to go. She was no where to be found. The Red Cap person, was speaking to me, when he said: “ she was by herself, and we do have time; I'm just going to wait here a few more minutes to see if she shows up; I don't know where she went or why she moved! She was here the whole time until just seconds ago... maybe she's already down there, but I don't want her to miss her train.” I nodded, with a prayer in my heart. Within a few minutes, she didn't show up, and we started down the elevator to our train without her. Now I was a bit concerned, and continued as did he, to look around for her. Our friendly, Red Cap worker, after bringing us down to the train, said to me, “stay here while I take this woman down to her car, I will be right back, and if you don't mind, please keep an eye out for that young girl.” And I did... and as I watched a line of people boarding the train, the conductor asking everyone where they were headed, guiding them to which train they should be seated on, she was still nowhere to be found.

I have to admit, I became a bit concerned, also as all the passengers, around me except one, other friendly, man, and myself were seated on the bench where we were told to stay until our Red Cap helper returned. I had a tinge of fear creep in, I immediately prayed it away and took captive the thought, that I might miss the train myself, if he didn't get back here soon. But yet again, he came hurriedly toward us with a smile, and said lets go, and he took my suitcase for me, and said, “you don't have to do anything but find a seat that pleases you,” with a kind smile. What a pleasure it was in my experience there at the 30^th street station.

And the, “All Aboard”, Call was give for the last time, and off we went, after I had found myself a comfortable seat. After we got going and the conductors checked my ticket, I was free to roam about the train and so I did. I headed for the dining car... which to my recollection from my only other trip on a train, to Montreal' was the most comfortable and best view. And so it was...

(much of my experience up to this point has been written after my trip, the following, during my trip in the dining car)

I am in the middle of the dining car with about eight (8) one meaning - Number of new beginnings, other people around me in these booths. Eight... I think on numbers, often. By the end of the trip we dwindled down to about four adults in the dining car who stayed throughout the trip, four (4) being another biblical number as in the four corners of the earth, winds, Angels, and so much more.

A bunny trail, here: I hope you will take these little tid bits of knowledge or as I like to say, nuggets of truth (from a studying perspective as I love to do) and dig them up for yourself. It's so interesting to me to find the meanings behind everything!

Now, as we passed the Cityscape and inner city areas, many thoughts cross my mind. How beautiful it must have been when it was first built. How many people live and work here, how the buildings are designed. I love the antiquity, nothing like the buildings today... so modern and without the unique, detailed craftsmanship of the days long past. Something about those older buildings that I just love. It's as thought they speak to me.

And then we get to the beautiful rocky areas of Pennsylvania, the rivers, streams, lakes, etc. It's very cloudy and misty outside this morning, so the view is visibly dismal, but in my mind, beautiful!

Another bunny trail... isn't it interesting how a word can bring back so many memories, or a thought, smell, picture? For me, the word, 'misty' in my last paragraph, brought back to me a song I used to sing to my children as they were growing up, and it goes like this:

“One 'Misty, Moisty Morning', when cloudy was the weather,

I chance to see an old man, clothed all in leather.

He began to compliment and I began to grin,

how do you do, how do you do, how do you do, again?”

And that was all I never knew of the song, if it was even a song... I'm not even sure... as I think to myself, I just remember, how much I enjoyed singing it them as I acted it, it out, and shook their hands at the end ~ even my children loved it... and would laugh, happily, asking me to sing it again... probably, because when I would shake their hands at the end I would do so exaggerating the shake!

OK, enough of my bunny trail and back to my journal... as I was saying:

And then we get to the beautiful rocky areas of Pennsylvania, the rivers, streams, lakes, etc. It's very cloudy and misty outside this morning, so the view is visibly dismal, but in my mind, beautiful!

Watching the scenery as we go by all these beautiful places, I see that at some point in time, a seed found its way into a cement wall in the midst of the waters, and grew into a beautiful little tree. I would like to think God put it there for me <3... and whomever else may enjoy it! A resting place for some birds on their way to wherever.

Watching people and life passing me by, in so many ways, make me think of God and how He loves His creation! His people! Very thought provoking to me.

We are stopping in Union Station Washington, shortly, with a message that we may get out and stretch our legs, but we are not to go into the station, and if we do, we do so at our own risk? Thoughts race through my mind again... the city life is not something I am used to nor do I have interest, except maybe to see a show, or the Cityscape itself, which I have not done much of. So, again, I take captive my concerned thoughts and return to a faith filled and fearless mindset... renewed by the Word of God as it is written, “God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love and a sound mind.” I am sure what was being said was, as people got off to stretch, get some fresh air, they should do so and stay close to the train, not to get lost in the large station and get mixed up in the rush, or they may miss their ride not getting back on our train in time.

When I went back to my seat after a short stop at Union Station the woman sitting next to me, (before, when I first got my seat on the train, was very quiet and turned away to the window) and was humming and singing. I listened for a while, then politely asked her:; “Excuse me, miss, I'm sorry, but would you mind telling me what you're singing? It's so beautiful!” She, very sweetly and kindly answered, “Gospel Music, It's about Peace The Lord giving you Peace in the midst of the Storm, in Spanish. (and she smiled)” I told her thank you, and that was it! She went back to her music, and I to mine. How interesting, that The Lord would sit me next to a Christian... No conversation to speak of, just the reassurance from The Lord to me... that He is in Control, and as I said to her: “Amen, He does give us peace that passes all understanding!” Only The Lord and I would know what that meant to me; having spent the night before tossing and turning, not being able to sleep until I prayed almost through the night, about everything and everyone... He is so Good! Glory to God.

Next Stop ~ Quantico, Virginia, across from a Marine Corp Station, it's so pretty here from what I can see, with beautiful lakes and hills, a small quaint town. Moving on to Fredericksburg,Virginia... I begin thinking about where it was my mom lived with her parents, for a while, here in Virginia. I remember stories of how they moved here, my grandfather building their house... and my mom's telling me about her being a little girl, going to the top of the mountain and singing her heart out, knowing that the birds were taking her songs to Jesus. Another story I remember is about how she had a swimming hole on their property and had done some swimming often, with snakes all around them! I love learning about our ancestors, and researching all about those things, what great memories!

After, Fredericksburg, VA we were one hour from Richmond, Virginia. We were told at one point that the dining car would be closed for a short time, and would re-open later, and could return at that point.

And, interestingly enough, while trying to take a picture of a small town train station, with cars waiting, I got the beginning of the sign with the name of it's town... which just happens to be my husband's name, Fred... Fredericksburg! I love it, and didn't see it until I got to my destination, and was reviewing the pictures.
Here it is, below:

And, it's that time again, so I came back to the dining car for me as soon as it opened! More beautiful views... and some interesting people, too... One man who was here the first time this morning with me, and again, now... I did not hear him speak until this time, with quite a thick accent, and one I've not heard often around our way. We both went directly up to the counter for our lunch orders at which point I asked him where he was from, and he replied to me,“I am on Holiday from Africa; I am here for two weeks, and have had a very nice time.” He was very interesting and friendly to talk with which made my ride all the more interesting and enjoyable.

So many more little stops along the way where I took some great little video clips and pictures, the small towns were so quaint, and pretty, with some beautiful old farms, and beautiful new developed area's as well. And, all the way to North Carolina, in Burlington, where my stop was, there was so much to see, what a ride! Every moment so enjoyable... even up to the very end, meeting a happy little guy of only 12 years old, so intelligent... traveling alone, with so much to say as we (a woman I also just met as I waited for our stop) talked with him for those last 20 minutes as the train was delayed yet again only ten minutes from my destination.

Arriving at my stop I saw my two grandsons and son-in-law, peering through the train station waiting for me to get off the train. What a picture, which will ever be in my mind, precious! I see it in my mind right now even as I finish writing this several days later, from home after a beautiful week with my family.

After getting to my daughter's home, I uploaded some of the pictures I had taken during this trip and to my surprise and delight, I had taken one that normally would be considered a dud, because I had intended it to be a picture of cars waiting at one of the train stops in Fredericksburg, with the railroad sign... but, when I saw how the picture had turned out, it missed what I was trying to focus on because of the movement of the train, and instead got only the first four letters of the word in the sign of the town... which happen to be my husband's nickname, Fred! What a beautiful way of remembering my husband during my little journey...

I enjoyed writing this blog both now and during the 11 hours it took me to get there as much as I enjoyed the railways, people and scenery, itself. We had a great week, I got to spend time with my grandsons, laughing and having too much fun; enjoyed homeschooling with them; soccer games; play dates; meeting new, old friends who now have with children of their own; eating out; NDI's Packathon for “Feed the Hunger”; birthday parties; and lots of fun, with an exciting surprise from Grandfather, my hubby, for the boys he showed up in time for the birthday day lunch and party. I spent some quality time with my family, and enjoyed yet again, time with my son-in-law's parents, what a treat! Well I had a wonderful time, and hope you enjoyed it with me!

Blessings,

Sz

What a beautiful time I had while in North Carolina ~ September 27^th through October 1^st of 2011 9:08am

I can't wait to share with you all about the Packathon Ministry for “Feed the Hunger” I was blessed to be a part of as a surprise from my children! Look for it in an upcoming post.

WHO AM I? Understanding Your Identity In Christ!

WHO AM I? Understanding Your Identity In Christ!

by Susan Bordi-Parent on Saturday, April 23, 2011 at 1:10pm

Who Am I?

I am accepted...

• John 1:12~I am God's Child

• John 15:15~I am Christ's friend

• Romans 5:1 ~ Faith Brings Joy~I have been justified

• 1 Corinthians 6:17 ~I am united with the Lord, and I am one spirit with Him.

• 1 Corinthians 6:19-20~I have been bought with a price. I belong to God

• 1 Corinthians 12:27~I am a member of Christ's body

• Ephesians 1:1 ~ Greetings from Paul~I am a saint, a set apart one

• Ephesians 1:5~I have been adopted as God's child.

• Colossians 1:14~I have direct access to God through the Holy Spirit to the Throne of Grace

• Colossians 2:10~I am complete in Christ

I Am Secure...

• Romans 8 ~ Life in the Spirit~I am free forever from condemnation

• Romans 8:28~I am assured that all things work together for good

• Romans 8:31-34 ~ Nothing Can Separate Us from God’s Love~I am free from any condemning charges against me

• Romans 8:35-39~I can not be separated from the love of God

• 2 Corinthians 1:21-22~I have been established, anointed and sealed by God

• Colossians 3:3~I am hidden with Christ in God

• Philippians 1:6~I am confident that the good work God has begun in me will be perfected

• Philippians 3:20~I am a citizen of heaven

• 2 Timothy 1:7~I have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind

• Hebrews 4:16~I can find grace and mercy in time of need

• 1 John 5:18~I am born of God, and the evil one cannot touch me

I am significant...

• Matthew 5:13-14 ~ Teaching about Salt and Light~I am the salt and light of the earth

• John 15:1,5 ~ Jesus, the True Vine~I am a branch of the true vine, a channel of His life

•  John 15:16 ~I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit

• Acts 1:8 ~I am a personal witness of Christ's

• 1 Corinthians 3:16~I am God's temple

• 2 Corinthians 5:17-21~I am a minister of reconciliation for God

• 2 Corinthians 6:1~I am God's co-worker (1 Cor. 3:9)

• Ephesians 2:6 ~I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realm

• Ephesians 3:12~I may approach God with freedom and confidence.

• Ephesians 4:13 ~I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me

Study to show yourself approved a workman rightly dividing the WORD of Truth... Renew your mind in the WORD of GOD... Walk by the Spirit not by your flesh... Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen.

Enjoy,
Blessings,
Susie Parent

HAPPY RESURRECTION DAY ~ OUR PASSOVER LAMB CELEBRATION!!!

(From "Living Free in Christ" by Dr. Neil Anderson)
"The more you re-affirm who you are in Christ, the more your behavior will begin to reflect your true identity!"
(From Victory Over the Darkness: by Dr. Neil Anderson)

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Here is the Full outline with Scripture Verses included:
Who Am I?

I am accepted... 

• I am God's Child 

John 1:12
12 But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.

• I am Christ's friend

John 15:15
I no longer call you slaves, because a master doesn’t confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me.

• I have been justified

Romans 5:1 ~ Faith Brings Joy
Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us.

• I am united with the Lord, and I am one spirit with Him.

1 Corinthians 6:17 
But the person who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with him.

• I have been bought with a price. I belong to God

1 Corinthians 6:19-20
19 Don’t you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, 20 for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body

• I am a member of Christ's body

1 Corinthians 12:27
 All of you together are Christ’s body, and each of you is a part of it.

• I am a saint, a set apart one

Ephesians 1:1 ~ Greetings from Paul
This letter is from Paul, chosen by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus.
 I am writing to God’s holy people in Ephesus,[a] who are faithful followers of Christ Jesus.

• I have been adopted as God's child.

Ephesians 1:5
5 God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.

•  I have direct access to God through the Holy Spirit to the Throne of Grace

Colossians 1:14
...who purchased our freedom[a] and forgave our sins.

• I am complete in Christ

Colossians 2:10
So you also are complete through your union with Christ, who is the head over every ruler and authority.

I Am Secure...

• I am free forever from condemnation

Romans 8 ~ Life in the Spirit
1 So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. 2 And because you belong to him, the power[a] of the life-giving Spirit has freed you[b] from the power of sin that leads to death.

• I am assured that all things work together for good

Romans 8:28
28 And we know that God causes everything to work together[a] for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.

• I am free from any condemning charges against me

Romans 8:31-34 ~ Nothing Can Separate Us from God’s Love
 31 What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? 32 Since he did not spare even his own Son but gave him up for us all, won’t he also give us everything else? 33 Who dares accuse us whom God has chosen for his own? No one—for God himself has given us right standing with himself. 34 Who then will condemn us? No one—for Christ Jesus died for us and was raised to life for us, and he is sitting in the place of honor at God’s right hand, pleading for us.

• I can not be separated from the love of God

Romans 8:35-39
 35 Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? 36 (As the Scriptures say, “For your sake we are killed every day; we are being slaughtered like sheep.”[a]) 37 No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us.
 38 And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,[b] neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. 39 No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.

• I have been established, anointed and sealed by God

2 Corinthians 1:21-22
 21 It is God who enables us, along with you, to stand firm for Christ. He has commissioned us, 22 and he has identified us as his own by placing the Holy Spirit in our hearts as the first installment that guarantees everything he has promised us.

• I am hidden with Christ in God

Colossians 3:3
3 For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God.

• I am confident that the good work God has begun in me will be perfected

Philippians 1:6
6 And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.

• I am a citizen of heaven

Philippians 3:20
20 But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior.

• I have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind

2 Timothy 1:7
7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and (sound mind) self-discipline.

• I can find grace and mercy in time of need

Hebrews 4:16
16 So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.

• I am born of God, and the evil one cannot touch me

1 John 5:18
 18 We know that God’s children do not make a practice of sinning, for God’s Son holds them securely, and the evil one cannot touch them.

I am significant...

• I am the salt and light of the earth

Matthew 5:13-14 ~ Teaching about Salt and Light
 13 “You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless.
 14 “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden.

• I am a branch of the true vine, a channel of His life

John 15:1,5 ~ Jesus, the True Vine
   “I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener.
 5 “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.

• I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit

John 15:16
16 You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name.

• I am a personal witness of Christ's

Acts 1:8
8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

• I am God's temple

1 Corinthians 3:16
 16 Don’t you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in[a] you?

• I am a minister of reconciliation for God

2 Corinthians 5:17-21
17 This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
 18 And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. 19 For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation. 20 So we are Christ’s ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, “Come back to God!” 21 For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin,[a] so that we could be made right with God through Christ.

• I am God's co-worker (1 Cor. 3:9)

2 Corinthians 6:1
 1 As God’s partners,[a] we beg you not to accept this marvelous gift of God’s kindness and then ignore it.
1 Corinthians 3:9
9 For we are both God’s workers. And you are God’s field. You are God’s building.

• I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realm

Ephesians 2:6
6 For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus.

10 For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.

• I may approach God with freedom and confidence.

Ephesians 3:12
 12 Because of Christ and our faith in him,  we can now come boldly and confidently into God’s presence.

• I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me

Ephesians 4:13
13 This will continue until we all come to such unity in our faith and knowledge of God’s Son that we will be mature in the Lord, measuring up to the full and complete standard of Christ.