Spring Is Around The Corner!

As I look from my window, I see how this beautiful tree begins to bloom the week before Valentine's Day. Then right on February 14th is in full bloom, as if my Heavenly Father was delivering flowers to me on Valentine's Day!

I grew up in Managua, Nicaragua where we only had one season--hot all year round. It was hot even when it rained. It was beautiful because it was always green. We had flowers all year long.

One of the things I enjoy of living in California is appreciating the changes of the four seasons. We wouldn't look forward to spring if it wasn't because of winter.

You see what I mean? This tree is so spooky. It gave me the creeps when I first saw it. It looks lifeless and dead...

Same tree in summer time...full of life and beauty!

The fall colors are breathtaking...

And the snow is just gorgeous...

I love to experience the changes in color and the beauty around me. My least favorite is the dead looking tree of winter. I was once like that tree. I was depressed and discouraged. Then I met my Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ and He gave me life... abundant life!

I don't know what season of life you are in. But, if you feel like a lifeless tree I can tell you that there is hope. Hang in there. I pray that you will find and experience God's love too. You may want to read my blog titled, "The Best Christmas Present Ever!!!" to read about the hope I'm talking about...

Psalm 1:1-3 says:

Blessed is the man
who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked
or stand in the way of sinners
or sit in the seat of mockers.
But his delight is in the law of the LORD,
and on his law he meditates day and night.
He is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither.
Whatever he does prospers.

Maybe you are like the tree described in this Psalm, if not, remember...spring is just around the corner!

Who Can Be The Best Valentine Ever?

       Who Can Be The Best Valentine Ever?

One night I couldn't sleep thinking about what Valentine's Day was going to look like for my widowed and divorced friends. I got up from bed and went straight to my computer. This is the letter I wrote several years ago to encourage them. But even if you have a significant other in your life, this letter will help you see and understand how much you are loved by God.

Who promises not to leave you or forsake you?

“The LORD Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." - Deuteronomy 31:8

"No one will be able to stand up against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you." - Joshua 1:5

Who loves you unconditionally, regardless of shape, size, or color?

“However, the LORD your God would not listen to Balaam but turned the curse into a blessing for you, because the LORD your God loves you.” - Deuteronomy 23:5

“Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” - Romans 8:39

Who listens to your problems and concerns like nobody else?

 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” - Matthew 11:28

Who is there for you at all times?

“For the LORD loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. They will be protected forever..." - Psalm 37:28

Who delights in you?

“For the LORD takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with salvation.” - Psalm 149:4

Who says He will be your husband and a father to your children?

“He defends the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and loves the alien, giving him food and clothing.” - Deuteronomy 10:18

“For your Maker is your husband- the LORD Almighty is His name- the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer; He is called the God of all the earth.” - Isaiah 54:5

Who is your faithful friend?

“But you, O Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.” - Psalm 86:15

Who will never disappoint you?

“And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.” - Romans 5:5

 Only JESUS can love you like no one else can. He loves you so much that He gave His life for you. 

He wants to spend eternity with you in the Mansion He went to prepare for YOU!

 This Valentine’s Day, beloved, you are not alone. You are loved. Jesus wants to be your Valentine. 

Have a “date” with Jesus by spending time reading His love letter to you--His wonderful Word. 

Have a cup of coffee or tea with Him. 

Talk to Him in prayer and take time to listen to what He wants to say to your heart! 

The first commandment is to love God with all of our heart, mind, soul and strength and the second greatest is to love one another. 

Spend the day loving your neighbors and friends--share God’s love with them. 

Have a wonderful Valentine’s Day!

Excerpt from my book, "How To Love God with All Your Heart - A Personal Journey & Testimonial Bible Study Guide" by Guadalupe C. Casillas

Copyright 2015

In His Love,

Guadalupe :-)

Picture taken by Guadalupe in Cancun, Mexico.

Valentine's Day - February--The Month of Love!

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

February is the month of love! Everyday can actually be Valentine's day when a couple is "in-love." I made our plans for Valentine's Day since Christmas! 

I recently commented to the cashier lady at Raley's how much I love to see the men buy flowers, cards, balloons and even teddy bears to give to their significant other. I said, "I think it's so romantic to see them come out of the store with all that stuff." Her replied was not so romantic. She said, "I think they're doing it so they won't get in trouble." I laughed!

When it comes to Valentine's Day I don't leave anything to chance. I've been married for almost 32 years and I tell my husband exactly what I want. I'm looking forward to a candlelight dinner at our special restaurant. Chocolate for dessert is in the menu too! 

Other women prefer the element of surprise. Unfortunately, the surprise might be that their loved one forgot or that they didn't meet their expectations. My husband likes the fact that I plan the day. He says I'm being helpful in letting him know my wishes and that makes him happy.

Valentine's Day can be a difficult day for some people. My heart goes out to those of you who are not in a relationship due to a break-up or have lost a spouse. 

In Mexico, Valentine's Day is also called, "El Día De La Amistad" (Friendship Day). You can plan something fun with friends or celebrate "love" with those in your family or visit a retirement home or a shelter.

Several years ago, I wrote a letter to those who are not able to be with the one they love. I will post this letter next week. It is titled, "Jesus is our best Valentine!" You will see why...