Melody-Jo

Stepping Boldly into the Light

Scripture: John 3:17 - "For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."

Dedication: Dedicate today to boldly stepping into the light of Christ, knowing that His purpose is not condemnation but salvation.

Daily Reflection: Reflect on the boundless love and grace of God. How can you share this message of hope and salvation with others today?

Overcoming the Fear of Exposure

Scripture: John 3:20 - "Everyone who does evil hates the light and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed."

Dedication: Dedicate this day to letting go of the fear of exposure and embracing the freedom found in Christ's forgiveness.

Daily Reflection: Consider any fears or guilt that may be preventing you from fully embracing the light of Christ. How can you release these burdens and trust in His cleansing grace?

Embracing the Light of Salvation

Scripture: John 3:19 - "This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil."

Dedication: Dedicate today to walking in the light of Christ, allowing His truth to illuminate your path and cleanse your heart.

Daily Reflection: Consider the areas of your life where you may have been hiding in the shadows. How can you bring those areas into the light of Christ today, seeking His transformative grace?

Living in Truth and Transparency

Scripture: John 3:21 - "But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God."

Dedication: Dedicate this day to living in truth and transparency before God, allowing His light to reveal your actions.

Daily Reflection: Reflect on your daily decisions and actions. Are there areas where you need to align with God's truth more closely? How can you ensure that everything you do is done in the sight of God?

The Gift of Eternal Life

Scripture: John 3:16 - "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

Dedication: Today, dedicate your heart to the profound love of God, which grants us eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ.

Daily Reflection: As you start your day, reflect on the immeasurable love of God, the One who gave His Son for your salvation. How can you show gratitude for this incredible gift today?

Dear Beloved Friends,

I trust this letter finds you well, and may its words illuminate the path of faith and grace that we walk together. Today, I wish to delve into the profound verses of John 3:16-21, which carry the essence of our Christian journey – the message of salvation, the separation caused by sin, and the transformative power of walking in the light of our Savior.

John 3:16 - "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

This verse encapsulates the very heart of our faith. It reminds us of God's boundless love for humanity. He bestowed upon us the incredible gift of His Son, Jesus Christ, so that through faith in Him, we may have eternal life. It's a message of hope, grace, and everlasting love.

John 3:17 - "For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him."

In these words, Jesus clarifies His divine mission. He was not sent to condemn but to save. He came to bridge the chasm that separates humanity from God, offering reconciliation and salvation to all who believe in Him. It's a reminder that through faith, we can find redemption and eternal life, free from condemnation.

John 3:19-21 - "This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God."

These verses provide profound insight into the human condition. It speaks of the tendency to embrace darkness rather than light when our deeds are tainted by sin. Sin separates us from God, causing us to hide in the shadows, fearing exposure. But as we walk in the light of our Savior, we come to realize that our sins can be forgiven and cleansed. When we live by the truth, we step into the light, where our actions are laid bare before God, who offers us His transformative grace.

As we reflect on these verses, let us remember that sin indeed creates a separation between us and our Creator. However, through faith in Jesus Christ, we can walk in His light, away from the darkness of our sinful nature. It's a journey of redemption, forgiveness, and renewal.

May these verses inspire you to embrace the light of Christ and walk with Him daily, knowing that through faith, your sins can be forgiven, and you can experience the transformative power of His grace. In His light, you will find the path to a closer relationship with God and the promise of eternal life.

With heartfelt blessings and prayers,

MJ

Dear cherished friends,

I hope this letter finds you well and surrounded by the blessings of each day. It's with a heart full of gratitude that I write to you today, sharing a little update about the upcoming month of September.

As we walk together on this journey of faith, growth, and exploration, I've found that it's essential to pause, reflect, and seek guidance. With this in mind, I've decided to take the last days of August as a period of introspection and prayer, a time to tune in to the whispers of the Divine and gather inspiration for the content we'll journey through in September.

In the midst of our conversations about Spanish Moss, idolatry, and the profound lessons they bring, I've realized the importance of allowing space for the seeds of these insights to take root in our hearts. This pause will provide me with an opportunity to connect more deeply with God's wisdom, ensuring that the content we share in September resonates authentically with the messages He wishes to convey.

I truly believe that as we take this moment to step back, to embrace silence and contemplation, we are preparing the soil of our souls for a new season of growth. Just as Spanish Moss drapes itself gently over trees, we too can allow the gentle touch of Divine guidance to envelop us, leading us toward the paths of understanding, healing, and transformation.

Please know that this pause does not diminish the significance of our journey; rather, it magnifies it. It is a deliberate choice to honor the journey, to respect the cadence of our spiritual exploration, and to create content that speaks directly to your hearts.

During this time, I encourage you to reflect on the insights we've shared, to revisit the messages that have touched you, and to offer your own prayers for guidance and growth. When we reconvene in September, we'll embark on a new phase of this journey together, renewed and ready to explore new horizons of faith and understanding.

Thank you, from the depths of my heart, for being a part of this community. Your presence, your thoughts, and your own reflections enrich this journey in ways words cannot fully express.

May these days of reflection be a time of deep connection with God's presence and a source of inspiration for the path ahead. I look forward to reuniting with you in September, sharing the treasures of insight and understanding that these days of reflection will surely unveil.

Until then, my dear friends, may your days be blessed, your hearts be open to God's whispers, and your souls find rest in His love.

See you on the porch,

Melody Jo

Restoring Wholeness through Surrender

Hello again,

As we approach the conclusion of our journey through Spanish Moss and its lessons about idolatry, let's reflect on the process of restoring wholeness through surrendering our idols. Just as the moss can be carefully removed to unveil the tree's natural beauty, we too can shed the weight of idolatry to rediscover the fullness of our relationship with God.

Scripture: Ezekiel 14:6 - "Therefore say to the people of Israel, 'This is what the Sovereign Lord says: Repent! Turn from your idols and renounce all your detestable practices!' "

God's call to repentance and renunciation reminds us that we have the power to break free from idolatrous chains. When we lay down our idols, we create space for God to restore our hearts and draw us back into His loving embrace.

Final Thoughts:

Take time to evaluate your heart. Are there idols you need to surrender? Reflect on the detestable practices that might be clouding your relationship with God. As you choose to release them, trust in His ability to restore your heart, renew your purpose, and guide you into a deeper and more meaningful connection with Him.

See you on the porch,
Melody Jo

Striving for Authentic Worship

Dear friends,

Continuing our reflections on Spanish Moss, let's explore how idolatry hinders our ability to offer authentic worship to God. Just as the moss can weigh down a tree, idolatry burdens our worship, preventing us from fully surrendering our hearts.

Scripture: Psalm 95:6-7 - "Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; for he is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under his care."

In Psalm 95, we're called to worship God with humility and reverence. However, when we allow idols to take priority, our worship becomes fragmented, and our hearts struggle to fully engage in genuine adoration.

Final Thoughts:

Reflect on your worship experience. Are there areas where you feel disconnected or burdened? Examine your heart for any idols that may be hindering your authentic connection with God. As you release their hold, your worship will become a joyful offering of love and gratitude to the Creator who deserves nothing less.

See you on the porch,
Melody Jo

Unmasking False Gods

Hello dear friends,

As I sit beneath the canopy of trees, the Spanish Moss reminds me of the masks we often wear when succumbing to idolatry. Just as the moss gently covers the tree's true form, idolatry covers our hearts, obscuring our authentic connection with God.

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 8:4 - "So then, about eating food sacrificed to idols: We know that an idol is nothing at all in the world and that there is no God but one."

Paul's words remind us that idols are ultimately powerless and deceptive. When we allow their allure to overshadow our relationship with the one true God, we dilute the beauty of His presence in our lives.

Final Thoughts:

Today, take a moment to unmask any false gods you've been entangled with. Reflect on their true nature and the temporary satisfaction they provide. Pray for clarity and discernment to see them for what they are and choose to remove their influence from your life, making room for God's authentic and transformative love.
See you on the porch,
Melody Jo

Embracing Divine Alignment

Hello again,

As we conclude our reflections on Spanish Moss and its lessons about idolatry, let's explore how breaking free from idolatrous tendencies opens the door to divine alignment. Just as moss-free trees thrive under the sun's nourishing rays, our hearts flourish when aligned with God's purpose.

Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."

Jeremiah's words remind us of God's divine plan for our lives – a plan filled with hope, purpose, and abundance. Idolatry's grip can hinder us from walking in this plan, but through God's grace, we can realign our hearts with His intentions.

Final Thoughts:

Take time to seek divine alignment in your life. Are there areas where you've allowed idolatry to distort your path? Trust in God's promises, surrender your idols, and let your heart be realigned with His perfect will. As you align with God's plan, you'll experience the fullness of life He has prepared for you.

See you on the porch,
Melody Jo

Breaking Down Resistance

Dear friends,

As we continue to ponder the significance of Spanish Moss, let's delve deeper into how idolatry creates resistance to God. Just as the moss can cling tightly to trees, idolatry can tighten its grip on our hearts, making it difficult to open ourselves to God's transforming presence.

Scripture: Acts 7:51 - "You stiff-necked people! Your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit!"

Stephen's words in Acts highlight the human tendency to resist the Holy Spirit. Idolatry reinforces this resistance by diverting our attention from God's promptings and replacing them with the temporary desires of the world.

Final Thoughts:
Take a moment to reflect on your relationship with God. Are there areas where you feel resistance or reluctance to follow His lead? Identify any idols that might be contributing to this resistance. Through prayer and surrender, invite the Holy Spirit to soften your heart and remove any barriers, allowing you to fully embrace God's transformative work in your life.

See you on the porch,
Melody Jo

Breaking Free from the Ties of Idolatry

Dear friends,

Just as gardeners prune Spanish Moss to preserve trees, we too can overcome idolatry through self-reflection and seeking guidance from God. Acknowledging its presence in our lives is the first step to breaking free from its grip and finding lasting peace in our Creator.

Scripture: Galatians 5:1 - "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery."
God desires us to walk in freedom, liberated from the chains of idolatry. Through the sacrifice of Christ, we have the power to break free from anything that hinders our relationship with God.

Final Thoughts:
Take a moment to reflect on the areas of your life where you may be entangled in idolatry. Surrender these to God, allowing His love to break the chains and grant you freedom. Embrace the fullness of life that comes from walking in His grace, cherishing your relationship with the Creator above all else.
See you on the porch, Melody Jo

The Warped Lens of Idolatry

Hello dear friends,

As I sit here, gazing at the Spanish Moss gently swaying in the breeze, I'm reminded of how idolatry can warp our reasoning and create resistance to God's presence in our lives. Just as the moss can cast a veil over the true beauty of a tree, idolatry distorts our perception and hinders our ability to fully experience the profound love and guidance of our Creator.

Scripture: Romans 1:25 - "They exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator."

In Romans, we're reminded that idolatry leads to a dangerous exchange – trading the truth of God for a counterfeit allure. This exchange not only distorts our priorities but also blinds us to the unchanging love and wisdom that God offers.

Final Thoughts:

Today, take a moment to examine your heart. Are there any idols that are subtly distorting your understanding of God's purpose for your life? Reflect on the choices you make and the priorities you hold. Ask God to help you recognize and remove any barriers that hinder your connection with Him, so you can experience His presence and guidance more fully.

See you on the porch,
Melody Jo

Drawing Nourishment from the Source

Hello again,

Spanish Moss draws its nourishment from the air and rain, not from the tree it clings to. In the same way, idolatry can lead us to seek fulfillment from worldly pursuits rather than drawing nourishment from our spiritual connection with God.

Scripture: Psalm 73:26 - "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
The psalmist beautifully captures the essence of true fulfillment – finding strength and contentment in God alone. When we turn to our Creator for sustenance and guidance, we discover an unending well of love and purpose.

Final Thoughts:
Reflect on your sources of nourishment. Are you seeking fulfillment in earthly things, or are you drawing strength and sustenance from God's abundant grace? Trust that God is your ultimate source of strength, and as you lean on Him, you will find peace even in the midst of life's uncertainties.
See you on the porch, Melody Jo

The Deceptive Nature of Idolatry

Dear friends,
As we continue to admire the Spanish Moss's ethereal appearance, let's reflect on the deceptive nature of idolatry. Just like the moss disguises itself among the branches, idolatry often masquerades as harmless or even beneficial pursuits, promising fulfillment but leaving us empty and unsatisfied.

Scripture: 1 John 5:21 - "Dear children, keep yourselves from idols."
John's words serve as a gentle reminder to guard our hearts against the allure of idolatry. By remaining vigilant and prayerful, we can resist the deceptive charms of worldly desires and ensure that God remains the sole object of our affection and devotion.

Final Thoughts:
Today, take a moment to examine your priorities. Are there any areas where idolatry may be subtly creeping in? Seek the Holy Spirit's guidance to discern any false gods in your life. As you let go of these distractions, God's boundless love and peace will fill the void, leading you toward a more fulfilling and purposeful journey.
See you on the porch, Melody Jo

Such beautiful truth here! We can trust Him!

The Delicate Allure of Idolatry
Hello friends,
Today, as I find myself drawn to the enchanting beauty of Spanish Moss gently draped from trees, I am reminded of the allure of idolatry in our lives. Just like this moss delicately envelopes its host, idolatry can subtly entwine our hearts and minds, leading us away from our true focus and devotion to God.
Scripture: Exodus 20:3 - "You shall have no other gods before me."
God's first commandment reminds us of His rightful place in our lives. When we allow anything else to take precedence over our relationship with Him, we risk falling into the trap of idolatry. Our Creator desires to be the center of our hearts, guiding our thoughts and actions.
Final Thoughts:
Take a moment today to examine your heart. Are there any desires, possessions, or pursuits that may have subtly become idols in your life? Surrender them to God and seek His guidance to ensure He remains the focal point of your journey. Remember, true fulfillment lies in loving and following our Creator wholeheartedly.
See you on the porch, Melody Jo

Walking in His Eternal Love

Dear friends,
As we continue our pilgrimage, we find comfort in God's enduring love. His goodness and love walk with us daily, guiding us through life's complexities. Trust that we will find our way back to His loving arms, no matter the challenges we face.

See you on the porch,
🕊️Melody Jo

Abundance Amidst Adversity

Hello again,
Even in the face of adversity, God blesses us abundantly. He prepares a table of goodness and love before us. Let's remember that we are never alone in this journey; His goodness follows us every step of the way.

See you on the porch,
🕊️Melody Jo

I've received 300 reactions to my posts in the past 30 days. Thanks for your support. 🙏🤗🎉

❤️

Guided Through Darkness

Dear friends,

Life's journey may lead us through dark valleys, but fear not, for God's unwavering presence is with us. In moments of adversity, His guiding hand and comforting touch bring courage and solace. Trust in His guidance.

See you on the porch,
Melody Jo

Dear friends,

As I sit on my porch once more, I feel compelled to share a source of solace during my journey back to the Creator – a timeless passage that resonates deeply with my heart.

In life, we encounter moments that feel like a never-ending race, running from pain, fear, and shame. Perhaps you, too, have experienced such struggles, as I did when faced with the overwhelming weight of loss and heartache. It was a time when I couldn't fathom how a loving God could allow such suffering to unfold around me.

In the midst of my confusion and sorrow, I chose to turn away, to run from the very source of comfort I needed the most. But even in the darkest valleys of doubt and despair, I eventually discovered an unwavering presence, gently guiding me back towards the light.

Through the meandering paths of life, I found myself dwelling upon the wisdom of a cherished passage, often recited during times of uncertainty – Psalm 23. Allow me to share my understanding of its profound meaning:

Like a shepherd tenderly caring for their flock, our Creator watches over us, providing all that we need. Despite the challenges we face, we lack nothing because He is with us. In the tumultuous storms of life, we can find peace knowing we are not alone.

Amidst our struggles, there are moments of respite. Just as a shepherd leads the flock to peaceful waters and green pastures, so too does our Creator offer us moments of rest and rejuvenation. In those still and quiet moments, our souls find solace.

Our journey might lead us through dark and treacherous valleys, where fear lurks around every corner. Yet, we need not be afraid, for God's presence is our constant companion. His guiding hand and comforting touch bring courage even in the face of adversity.

During times of turmoil, it may feel as if the world is against us. But even in the presence of adversity, God's blessings pour forth. He prepares a table of abundance before us, filling our lives with goodness and love.

As we navigate life's complexities, may we find comfort in the knowledge that God's goodness and love will walk with us, day after day. This journey, with all its ups and downs, is a testament to His unfailing love for us.

So, my dear friends, let us continue on our pilgrimage, walking hand in hand, and trust that we will find our way back to the loving arms of our Creator. In moments of uncertainty, may the wisdom of this ancient psalm guide us through the darkest valleys and into the light of His eternal grace.

See you on the porch,
Melody Jo

The Shepherd's Care

Hello friends,

In the race of life, we sometimes run from pain, fear, and shame. But amidst our struggles, we lack nothing because our Creator watches over us like a caring shepherd. He provides all we need and offers moments of rest and rejuvenation.

See you on the porch,
Melody Jo

Amidst our struggles, there are moments of respite. Just as a shepherd leads the flock to peaceful waters and green pastures, so too does our Creator offer us moments of rest and rejuvenation. In those still and quiet moments, our souls find solace.
🕊️MJ

Amidst our struggles, there are moments of respite. Just as a shepherd leads the flock to peaceful waters and green pastures, so too does our Creator offer us moments of rest and rejuvenation. In those still and quiet moments, our souls find solace.
Like a shepherd tenderly caring for their flock, our Creator watches over us, providing all that we need. Despite the challenges we face, we lack nothing because He is with us. In the tumultuous storms of life, we can find peace knowing we are not alone.
🕊️MJ

Have you stopped running?

Hello friends,

I pray each day that those who see this will be blessed and reminded that God is with you, wherever you are and whatever your days may hold.
You are a beloved creation - he did not make a mistake when you were brought here, to this earth - his actions are his intentions and you are a result of his love and abundance.

So, tell me, how have you stopped running?
I suppose my answer is obvious. I am here, sitting on my porch, writing to you about my journey back to my creator. There was a time when I would have been sad to say those words… “back to my creator.” But today, as I sit with a few years of truth in my grays I can say I am not saddened.
Truly, I am gladdened. When I first began the journey, the fall rather, or that’s what I called it, I had no idea how it would impact my entire being.
I sat there on the phone with my reverend, Phillis, and what she said made no sense at the time but now I see.
She said, you are on a path that some christians must follow. It will be dark, and though you may not see him, God will be with you. He can take your anger, he understands the injustice, and he will be ready for your return to him.
She said - this can only strengthen me.
Now at the time I was like - what? What do you mean I need to walk this path in darkness? I am already carrying all of this weight.
You see, it wasn't lifelong abuse and trauma that shook my faith. It was a loss. I lost the only people that I felt safe with. Illness savaging their brains resulting in severe dementia and lingering deaths. Compounded with fertility and miscarriage issues, I was left feeling relieved when churches shut down across the world due to this new things we all know now as Covid.

You see I left him.

How could all of this be happening?
These were good people, faithful, why did they die in such agony?
People around the world are dying by the millions in horrendous ways,
– and my babies, what kind of God?
I could no longer feel him, I had turned away. And, I started to run. I RAN UNTIL I HIT A WALL SO MANY TIMES I COULDN'T STAND, AND THEN I KEPT RUNNING.
It was pain and fear and shame.
But now I sit here, in my place of rest, and I am reminded why I started this journey with you. Let’s find our way home, to his arms and out of this darkness.

See you on the porch

Melody Jo

100% amazing

Wow. This is Sunday nights 99.9% waxing moon rise over Mount Rainier. The incredible capture was by Debbie Heyer. She said, “It was so cool watching it roll up the left side of the mountain.”

Mount Rainier, also known as Tahoma, is a large active stratovolcano in the Cascade Range of the Pacific Northwest in the United States. The mountain is located in Mount Rainier National Park about 59 miles south-southeast of Seattle.

Who Tells Your Story?

I will admit to hiding. I hid for much of my childhood and adult life. I hid from those who harmed me, those who would know the truth, those who loved me, and the one person who always knew - - me - -the secret keeper.

What some will understand and others will not, the abused are the tightest vault around. Yet - I am here to say - that vault is destructive, you , I cannot survive in there without oxygen. We suffocate.

I keep getting asked to tell my story. And I promise, over time I will. But, I feel a need to take a moment and give you an idea of where I am coming from and why I am here, writing to you today. It isn’t like I can simply sit down and write you a timeline of events anyway, so If you want to stay in the know, follow me, share me, and allow me to unfold - - just as you would in any relationship.

Instead of the beginning, let’s start in a more recent setting, in the NC mountains this past spring. A dear friend and my spiritual mother, Joy, and her amazing team at held a retreat for survivors and those who are in the helping field for the abused.
- Now I went there all “I am fine I will just go and see what this is about and come away just like I am- no changes, no friends, no nothing.” This makes me laugh hysterically now.

I walked away with everything I was hiding from and so much more. I walked away with a passion to tell my story, to stop hiding, and to find a will that is stronger than my fear.
I am a person who is a helper of the abused, my pain led me to becoming a counselor - - I am almost done btw - - brush a shoulder off for me would you?

So I guess I am here to say, stop hiding, embrace who you are and where you are. There are people out there who love you - HELLO ME! I will continue to be more open as well.
Let’s heal together and with professionals who can help us down this path.
Reach out if you feel unsafe - I will link some resources in the comments.

See you on the porch
Melody Jo