Chizzy's Topsy Tale by Donna J. Shepherd

Click HERE for an announcement on the Topsy Turvy Land site!

Thanksgiving - A Day in the Life of "The Cook"

Click here to read Thanksgiving - A Day in the Life of "The Cook" published by Penwomanship.

Donna J. Shepherd © 2005 All rights reserved. No portion of this Website may be reproduced without permission. For more information, contact Donna.

Devotional Columns

Click here to read a new column for BUSY Parents on The Dabbling Mum called Give Thanks for Sweet P's.

I also have a column up on NABBW simply called Giving Thanks. Click here.

My column on Crossmap.com called Smelly Saints is now one of the All Time Most Popular! Thank you for reading it or click here if you haven't yet. Think it's that catchy name?

Donna J. Shepherd © 2005 All rights reserved.
No portion of this Website may be reproduced without permission.
For more information, contact Donna.

New eBook Released!

The Lonely Lightning Bug
by Donna J. Shepherd

A Littlest Angel Children's Book

Order information: Click here!






Illustrated by Kevin Scott Collier
Cover by Kevin Scott Collier and Andy Cooke
Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing
16 pages
ISBN: 1-933090-30-8
Formats and prices:
Zipped electronic download 6.00
CD 9.95 + 5.95 S&H

PROCEEDS FROM THE SALE OF THIS BOOK GO TO: StarShine Hospice, the Hospice of Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center

Frosted Flakes

When the dew was gone, thin flakes like frost on the ground appeared on the desert floor. When the Israelites saw it, they said to each other, "What is it?" For they did not know what it was.
Exodus 16:14-15 niv

I awoke early this morning. When I opened my back door to let the dogs out, I saw my geraniums drooping, their leaves folded up as if trying to shield themselves from the cold. The top of the glass top table looked opaque instead of clear, etched instead of smooth. Tiny crystals of frost formed a thin covering of icy feathers, each sparkling in the morning light.

Can you imagine how the children of Israel felt that first morning when they threw back the flaps of their tents, and saw manna covering the ground? The word ‘manna’ means, “What is it?” In Exodus 16:31, the Bible says, “It was white like coriander seed and tasted like wafers made with honey.”

The ‘bread from heaven’ represented God’s daily provision. He rained manna down from Heaven – evidence of His presence and provision, but they were only permitted to gather one day’s worth, and two day’s worth the night before the Sabbath. Wouldn’t that be a test of your faith in God?

How many times have you talked to someone who said, “I know the Lord is going to give me a better job,” then in the course of the conversation, you find out this person is not filling out applications, has not typed up his resume, or tried to educate himself. Or how about the person who wants to minister? Has she been studying the Word of God, praying, and preparing for the ministry?

God could have caused the manna to appear in the tents. Or He could have even caused the people to be supernaturally nourished. But He didn’t. Every day they picked their food up from the ground. The manna came directly from the hand of God, but they had to use their hands to gather it.

Do you know your purpose? How are you preparing to minister when called upon? When it’s time to witness of Jesus, are you at a loss because you don’t know what to say? Just as the manna did not jump into the Israelite’s hands, the knowledge of the Word of God will not jump into your brain. You must ‘gather’ and digest it.

Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world."

The Israelites ate manna that sustained life for forty years. Jesus is the ‘bread of God’ Who gives us eternal life. The next time you see a blanket of frost, think of manna, God’s provision, and ask yourself, “Am I doing all I can to ‘gather’ souls for the kingdom of God?”

Prayer: Lord, I pray I remain faithful to Your purpose for my life. Help me to trust You daily to provide for me. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

The Comfort Cafe

Visit the Comfort Cafe to read "The Peace of God."

Comfort Cafe

Donna J. Shepherd © 2005 All rights reserved.
No portion of this Website may be reproduced without permission.
For more information, contact Donna.

A New Path

Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt I had to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints. – Jude 1:3 NIV

We had a guest minister at church the other night. He told us how sure he was he'd picked the right path to his chosen profession.

But sometimes God has other plans. This man had a congenital birth defect. The Lord not only healed him, but also called him to preach. He said God set him on ‘a new path I didn’t know was there.’

When he made that statement, it reminded me of one of the original Nintendo games. My favorite part of the game entailed finding a secret path or a hidden door. I could play that game for hours – becoming the best player my son knew and sort of a hero when I beat the game. One day he brought his friends to our house after school. It seems he’d bragged his mother could beat the dragon. They came to get the proof.

I became far too obsessed with the game. No matter how I try to justify all the time wasted on the game, I cannot make an excuse for most of it. Oh, it was fun, and relaxing. My son and I had something in common. But when it was all said and done, what did I have to show for it? A son begging for the next version.

At times, I feel I’ve traded one obsession for another – writing. I scribble notes all over the place. I jot down ideas. I visit sites with tips for writers. I pray daily asking the Lord to anoint my writing, and that this endeavor won’t be a waste of time. God has been gracious. I’ve received many notes of encouragement, and I do feel the Lord is blessing. I’m on a ‘new path.’

And are there dragons to slay? Yes! I believe the Lord can use our words to banish discouragement and slay doubt.

When Paul wrote to the church at Ephesus, he advised them, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” (Ephesians 4:29)

Let us heed this advice by speaking and writing words of faith and healing, words which edify and build up. May our words meet needs and benefit others.

I bought a new computer game recently, but I haven’t gotten carried away this time. I have poems and articles to write, devotionals to share, and blogs to post to!

Prayer: I praise you, Lord, for your goodness and mercy. Help me, O God, to be a vessel of honor building up and a blessing to those whose lives I touch. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

I'd like to announce the launch of a new association for women founded by Dotsie Bregel called the NABBW - the National Association of Baby Boomer Women. I'm honored to be the Inspirational Writer. Click here for more information.

Tell the Children in Your Life about a Contest!

WHAT NAME WOULD YOU GIVE THE TOPSY TURVY LAND CHIMPANZEE?

WHAT YOU WILL RECEIVE IF YOUR ENTRY IS CHOSEN THE WINNER!

• A free copy of the Topsy Turvy Land book, autographed by Donna J. Shepherd, Kevin Scott Collier and Liz Ball!

• Original artwork signed by Kevin Scott Collier from the pages of Topsy Turvy Land book!

• A signed copy of Tweener Press book.

Contest ends Saturday, September 24, 2005. Ready to enter? Click here!

Katrina

http://www.truthlaidbear.com/katrinarelief.php

If you have a blog, you can register at the site above and participate
to raise awareness and money for the relief effort, picking the charity of
your choice.

Let's continue to pray over this situation - for those who've been displaced, families who are grieving over the loss of loved ones, and for all those who are participating in the relief efforts.

Charities:

Operation Blessing

Convoy of Hope

Samaritan's Purse

Mt. Zion Disaster Relief Shower Trailer


Here are instructions for putting together a disaster relief kit - something I hope we never need...

Disaster Supply Kit

More Reviews for Topsy Turvy Land

Three more reviews are up!

The Dabbling Mum

Caribooks: Reviews with Care

PreSchool Entertainment

Topsy Turvy Land Review on Amazon

Topsy Turvy Land is now available through Amazon.com. Today I had tears of joy as I read a review left by Michael P. Snyder:

A delight for the imagination, August 19, 2005
Reviewer: Michael P. Snyder (Spring Hill, TN USA)

The kids in my house love this book--the four little ones AND the two big ones. The words and pictures tickle the imagination and highlight the limitless breadth of God's creation. Biblical truth permeates every entertaining page.

The best endorsement I can give this book is this: Last night I allowed my 5-year old and my 4-year old to take three books to bed with them. The five-year old grabbed Topsy Turvy Land, igniting a small skirmish. The peace talks ended with a compromise--a five minute limit on Topsy Turvy Land before swapping with your brother. I guess we may have to buy another copy....or three or four.

Wow! What more can a children's author ask for? Thanks, Michael and family! Here's the link - Amazon.com

My First Interview

Alyice Edrich of The Dabbling Mum interviewed me after Topsy Turvy Land was published. Click HERE to read the interview.

Cleansing Grace

Bitterness pools deep within the soul -

dark and murky with bottom unseen.

Stagnation hides resentment and lost desires,
locked in muddy sediment of unfulfilled dreams.

Daily the cesspit grows deeper.

Can anything stir emotions; cause still waters to flow?

Anger has been the only turbine –
the cause of untold hurt and pain.

Is there nothing that can clear the waters?

Is there relief from the turmoil within?

Can darkness receive light
and hope be renewed once again?

With cleansing God alone can perform,
His love purifies the depths of the heart,
ridding the soul of bitterness
revealing tenderness only grace can impart.

Forgiveness rushes through the depths
with penetrating power unknown to man
Refreshing the capacity to love.

Faith and hope remain.

© Donna J. Shepherd

Topsy Turvy Land Is Here!

After what seems to be an eternity, Topsy Turvy Land is here!

TOPSY TURVY LAND
by Donna J. Shepherd
Illustrated by Kevin Scott Collier
(Hidden Pictures by Liz Ball)

Come visit a place of peace and whimsy where green monkeys and singing snakes live. Children will delight in the lyrical rhymes and vibrant illustrations while searching for the hidden hearts. Full of fun from beginning to end!

ISBN: 0967815967
Format: Paperback, 16pp
Pub. Date: July 2005
Publisher:
Hidden Pictures Publishing
P.O. Box 63
Tipp City, OH 45371

Retail price: $6.99

To order, click here!

Excerpt:

"He made the giraffe with his very long neck,
And the toucan with gigantic beak,
God must have had fun,
Creating each one,
And all in just under a week!"
© 2005 Donna Shepherd

The publisher now has a blog, too. Check it out! Click here!

Kevin Scott Collier, the illustrator extraordinaire, has dedicated an entire page to the book! Check it out. Click here!

Women's Conference

Are you going to be in the Ohio area July 30, 2005? I will be speaking and singing at a Women's Conference sponsored by the women of Redeemer Church and friends, and the Breakfast Club. The theme is Drawing Closer To Christ.

There will be Breakout Forums on Prayer, Music, Devotional, and Bible Study led by members of Redeemer Church to help us “Draw Closer To Christ”. Audiences will be given a chance to share some of their favorite tips on the topic. The Redeemer Praise Band will provide live music, and lunch and snacks will be served.

The registration form can be downloaded from the following web site page: click here!

Update: I sang "In His Presence" and then spoke on drawing closer to Christ. I pray that my words encouraged the ladies. I enjoyed all the speakers, and had a great time getting to know the ladies of the Breakfast Club. Thank you for inviting me.

Treats from the Word

…who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age… (Hebrews 6:5 niv)

We had a visitor at our house for four weeks – a puppy named Molly. She’s a lively Boston Terrier with unlimited energy and need for affection. We’ve had a ball throwing her ball for her to fetch – at least the first fifty times. I’ve yet to tire her out with that game.

My dog, Angel, used to being the ‘top dog,’ had to adjust to having Molly around. For four weeks, she had to fight to get her treats. As soon as I doled them out, each dog gobbled up her treat as if it were the last morsel she’d ever see.

Molly has been gone for a week, and I’ve noticed I’m finding treats lying all over the house. For some reason, Angel delights in leaving them in plain sight. She plays with them, throwing them up in the air, and daring us to try to steal them from her. Eventually she eats them, but she doesn’t feel the urgency now that Molly’s gone.

I talk to a lot of Christians who, when in panic mode, take their Bible, and gobble up the Word, searching the Scripture for answers to their current dilemma. After the crisis has passed, the Bible gets thrown on a bookshelf to gather dust until the next time trouble appears. The urgency is gone.

Angel doesn’t live on those treats. She receives her nourishment from a steady diet of dog food specially designed for her health needs. What we need is a steady diet of the Word. We are spiritual beings, and the Bible is our spiritual nourishment designed by God to meet every need. Why don’t we digest a bit each day so that when trouble comes or the devil tries to steal our joy, we’ll have adequate storage of the Scriptures in our hearts and minds? We won’t go into ‘panic mode.’

I’ve seen a billboard that says, “Seven days without prayer makes one weak.” Even one day without the spiritual nourishment of the Word of God makes a Christian weak. You don’t go without food for your physical body. When we are so blessed to have Bibles at our fingertips, why are we spiritually anorexic?

Prayer: Lord, thank you for Your Word. May I never take it for granted. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.

The Privilege of Ministering

So he told them, "Every student of the Scriptures who becomes a disciple in the kingdom of heaven is like someone who brings out new and old treasures from the storeroom. (Matthew 13:52 cev)

Earlier this week, the doorbell rang. Since both my son and I expected packages, we raced to the door to see what the UPS man had left on the front porch. "Yes!" I snatched up the package with my name on it.

I carried it into the kitchen, laid it on the countertop, and ripped it open. After I pushed the paper wrapping aside, I pulled out the textbook and study guide for my latest college class. I clutched the book to my chest, and said, "I can't wait to get started on this."

Both my son and daughter looked at me like I'd grown a gigantic third eyeball. One of them said, "Oh, Mom. You are such a geek."

"I know!" I laughed. "And that's one good thing about getting older. I don't care."

I yearn to learn. I admit it. When I attended high school, I actually liked the challenge. Of course, I never made such a confession then. It wasn't 'cool' to like school. Right?

But now I realize what a privilege it is, not only to read, research, and learn, but to read, research, learn, AND write! Prior to 1456, when the first Bible was produced on a printing press, all manuscripts of the Bible were laboriouly copied by hand. These days, you probably have a dusty copy of the Bible some place in your home. We have an entire shelf in our bookcase dedicated to all the different versions of the Bible. I have such great admiration for those who wrote my textbooks and study guides - much more so now that I know the amount of hard work that can go into writing a 400 word devotional or a 1200 word article!

When I'm doing research, I have the entire internet at my disposal. I can read any version I want, and listen to it being read to me if I desire. I can find numerous Bible commentaries, and countless sites with Biblical teaching.

I heard the other day that even the shyest person among us will impact at least 10,000 people over the course of his or her lifetime. And then to think that God might use some of my writing to bless others overwhelms me at times. The counter on this site clicked over the 10,000 mark the other day, and I have to admit, my stomach fluttered at the idea that that many people had viewed the site. I prayed, "Lord, direct people by the power of Holy Spirit who need encouragement to my site today."

It's not about numbers. Or fame. But ministry. I encourage everyone who writes for the Master to remember our purpose - to lift up the Name of Jesus, and draw ourselves and others to Him. And to pause to thank God for the privilege of being a scribe for Him. May we all write beautiful words of prose and poetry, stories and teaching. What a privilege!

In Matthew 13:52, scribes are described as bringing out new and old treasures. The Amplified Bible interprets this as "the fresh as well as the familiar." How can we find the fresh insights the Lord gives us unless we are familiar with His Word? Let's be students always - learning from our Master. Then we can minister in the capacity He wants us to - whether it's teaching, singing, caregiving, praying, preaching, or writing.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for the Word of God, and that Your mercies are new every morning. Help me to faithful to minister Your Word. In Jesus' Name I pray, Amen.

Link to Funny Poem by Donna

Hi, everyone! I have a new poem up on KidVisions in the June edition. It's called Buggy Brain.
There are three definitions for 'buggy.' 1. A small lightweight carriage, 2. an informal or slang term for mentally irregular, and 3. infested with bugs.

Can you tell me which one this poem is about? Or is it two?? *hint, hint.

Click here to read about Poor Mrs. Rose!

Hard Lessons from a Hard Drive

After the LORD finished speaking to me, I got another scroll and gave it to Baruch. Then I told him what to write, so this second scroll would contain even more than was on the scroll Jehoiakim had burned. – Jeremiah 36:32 cev

Recently I lost everything on my computer. All my files. All my mail. All my favorites and email addresses.

I sat in front of my laptop and prayed. Then I cried a bit. Then I prayed some more. I took my computer, which I really wanted to shove over a cliff, to two different computer tech places. They assured me they could recover my files. They couldn’t.

I prayed that somehow we’d figure this out so that I recovered my files.

Guess what? God said, “No.” Sometimes He does that. And it’s hard to take, isn’t it?

I spent a couple weeks without something to which I’d grown addicted. Did you know that addictions come in many different forms? Lesson One.

Lesson Two. I discovered just how much time I had spent on-line. Without the distraction of email and messages boards, I actually studied for an exam for the college course I’m taking. I finished up a children’s book, and got it to the publisher.

Lesson Three? I found I had used my time on my ‘writing machine’ – my loving name for it, to procrastinate my duties in other areas besides writing and studying – like laundry and cleaning. Oh, my. Not what I need – another way to procrastinate!

In March, I backed up my writing files. Thank God. He had prompted me to do that, and I hadn’t done much writing since then because of life’s circumstances. So I did have about a year’s writing on a disk.

And because of His prompting, I had been sending all the files that had to do with my children’s book to an on-line account. So I had everything for it to go on! Praise the Lord!

So now I’m saying, “Okay, Lord. I get it. Lessons learned.”

In the book of Jeremiah, we read that God told Jeremiah to write the words He gave him on a scroll. So Jeremiah called for his scribe, Baruch, to write them all down. Baruch then took the scroll to the temple to read the words of the Lord. King Jehoiakim had the scroll brought to him, and threw it in the fire.

Do you know what the Lord told Jeremiah to do? Get another scroll. Start writing. The second scroll contained all the words the Lord had told him, and more. The New King James Version says, “there were added to them many similar words.”

Someone told me that God must have great things in store to throw such an obstacle in my path. But anything that satan means for evil, God can use for good. I’m not writing Scripture of course, but I do believe God can and will inspire me by the power of the Holy Spirit to rewrite a lot of what was on the computer, and add to them many similar words. I believe God can not only restore, but also give an increase.

Tell me - do you use your time on the computer to shirk responsibilities? Maybe you surf the web instead of writing, or talk to other Christians online instead of spending time talking to God. Maybe my hard lesson will help someone else. First of all, talk to God Himself before writing about Him. Secondly, back up your files regularly. And finally, turn off the computer now and then. It’s difficult at first, but you’ll enjoy the time you spend online much more if you’ve taken care of obligations first.

Now I must get back to writing. I have a lot of catching up to do!

Prayer: Lord, I thank You for Your presence, for Your Word, and for Your goodness. Help me to be faithful to use my time and resources wisely. In Jesus Name I pray, Amen.