Ultimate Blog Party 2009!

I heard there was a party going on in town.

Not wanting to miss out on the fun, consider this my official RSVP to the largest blogging party of the year. For those of you who are new to my blog, welcome to peace for the journey. For those of you who are regulars, consider yourself invited. Hop over to Five Minutes for Moms to offer your RSVP and join in on the fun.

The only thing that would make this party better would be to have you, my blogging friends, with me at the table, sharing a cup of mocha and surfing the blogosphere alongside one another. Alas, I think I am the lone blogger in my neck of the woods, so I’ll manage the party hat and coffee by myself … sort of.

Blogging for me has never been a solitary undertaking. Instead, it has been an open canvas upon which to paint the words of my heart. And just in case you haven’t heard, my heart belongs exclusively to Jesus. Yes, my heart is also crowded with love for my family and friends, but my God reigns supreme. He holds the title to my “now” and my “next.” Thus, when I take to the pen via a blank computer screen, I cannot help but bring his truth alongside. There is no other worthy boast of these lips than that of Jesus Christ and him crucified.

I could try and pretend otherwise; lighten things up a bit so as not to offend anyone who might be stopping by for a peek. But in doing so, I would denying the essence of peace for the journey. Peace is not a concept and cannot be accomplished via a prescribed measure of steps. No, peace is a person, and his name is Jesus Christ. He has radically and profoundly interrupted my life with his grace and has allowed me his leading companionship for the road ahead.

I am undone with the gift for I am unworthy of such a lavish expression of eternal love. Still and yet, I humbly and gratefully hold out my heart for the receiving. Time and again, because of God’s overflowing love for me and through the life changing work of his presence within me, I endeavor to pen my thanks and his truth via this blog. To hold it as private … to hoard God’s love and his truth in selfish reserve … is to walk in isolation from the gift’s intention—a ministry that was always meant to be shared.

A Gift that was meant to be given away, not hidden away.

Thus, the impetus behind peace for the journey. I give it to you, my readers, as the best offering that this heart will ever make. I don’t always get it right; I am fragile and yet young in my understanding of all things eternal. Still and yet, my heart is in the right place, and my deepest desire is for my words to bless and honor the one true Word—Jesus Christ.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. … The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” (John 1:1, 14).

He’s the one Word who has made all the difference to me as I pilgrim this earthly sod. Because of Jesus and his sacrificial surrender on the cross over 2000 years ago, I understand that this journey—these days of weary walking and a sometimes difficult hard—is but a passing through to my forever. In a time when things around me seem uncertain, I cling to the certainty of my God.

He’s real. He’s alive, and his Peace is available for the journey. Yours and mine.

May you always find Him here … through my words and in my life. You are welcome at this table anytime, and I consider it a privilege to walk the road with you, my friend. As always,

~elaine

I’d love to hear from you! Please leave a comment to receive the chance of a $15 Starbuck’s gift card. My prize isn’t officially registered on the UBP 2009, so I will be doing my own drawing at the end of the week from the comments on this particular post. Make sure and check out all the fine prizes over at the UBP 2009! Shalom.

If I am chosen as a winner by the UBP, my top three choices are:

#19 — $50 Target gift card from Shoot Me Now; #21– $50 Target gift card from Agoosa; #22– $50 Target gift card from Beginner Baby Blog.

If not chosen for these, I would also like #68 ($30 gift card from CBD), #91 ($25 Target gift card), and #123 ($20 Kohl’s gift card).

56 Responses to Ultimate Blog Party 2009!

  1. Hi, Elaine! I was just introduced to you a few days ago by Beth @ Outnumbered-Three-To-One and now I see you’ve joined the party, too! I’m really looking forward to spending more time reading your blog and getting to know you better.

    Enjoy the party!

  2. Elaine,
    I stopped by to say hi and wish you a happy blog party. Your site is filled with peace and inspiration. Have a wonderful afternoon. Cathy

  3. Thanks for these words today. I am inspired by how much you love Jesus and the ability He gives you to put it into words. You are such an amazing writer. A gift I admire much. I know you’ve been to my family blog, but if you care to, take a look at my other blog: notforman.blogspot.com. I feel about art the way you do about writing…

  4. Elaine, your love and passion for our Lord Jesus Christ is such an inspiration to me and, I’m sure, many, many others. It is very hard to find one who is so dedicated, so in love with Jesus. I know that God has and will bless you for your ministry and faithfulness. I appreciate your sincerity, boldness, and gift for writing and sharing the truth. Have a wonderful Sunday!

    In His Love,
    Andrea

  5. When I think of “Peace for the journey” I think of being with Jesus in the eye of the storm where it’s quiet and peaceful while there’s chaos swirling around. That’s the best I can do to speak your “language” (of writing, I mean!). I’m not real good at putting into words what God puts in my heart.

  6. You had asked what I relish most about life. That would have to be my family! God has blessed me with a wonderful family to take care of. Everyone always wonders why it is they were put on Earth, well I know God’s purpose for me – to be the best wife and mother I can while raising compassionate, helpful sons.

    Blessings,
    Katherine

  7. I love the title of your blog… very fitting! I believe Jesus embodies peace as well. It’s so neat to meet so many fellow Christian bloggers!
    Have a great blog Part-ay!

  8. Elaine,

    I speak for many when I say we will be forever toughed by your smile, your joy and especially your love for Jesus. You are a treasured friend by so many at Pine Forest. We love you! While Blogland certainly enjoys every word you pen, we each at PFUMC also enjoy your teachings at our bible studies and chatting with you in peson. God Bless you!
    Love you, my friend!

  9. Elaine, I love your heart. You speak the Truth in love. You can’t help yourself; it’s who you are. I’ve got to check out this blog party too.

  10. Welcome to the party! I’m glad we ‘met’ long before this, but it’s always nice to have a friend join in the fun. Be sure to leave a comment at my blog too; maybe we’ll get to virtually share a cup of my infamous chai and family-secret shortbread (and a devotional book you might like too).

  11. Ha! You are such a party animal! A virtual blogging party.. drinking hot mocha?? Humm… it’s spring time in the south, how ’bout some sweet tea on my front porch rockin’ chairs?? Count me in! I love reading your blogs! I love it when you “ponder” and pen about our Heavenly Father. Reading your blogs are always like a cool, fresh drink of spring water! .. here’s a toast to party hearty!!

  12. Hey. Thanks for the comment. I would love to attend the conference. Hope you get to go again.

  13. Yes, Elaine, please keep on writing from your heart and don’t “lighten up” to impress anyone! Your realness is what makes my “journey” over to your blog such a joy! I am every time amazed at what a talent God has given you with the written word!

    Marilyn

  14. Cute picture! And rather “sassy” too.

    I love it … two invitations: one to the blog party, and one to Jesus. Precious!

    Guess I’d better follow suit and take advantage that blog party. See you there,

    Kathleen

  15. Mrs. Elaine, I agree. I want Him to be my all, and for others to know Him that way too. Blessings to you sweet Sister! That verse has been repeated to me since last year! Love in Him, ((HUGS)):)

    katiegfromtennessee

  16. Beautiful blog! Both the layout and the words! I’d love to have you swing by and visit my party.

  17. Hi Elaine!

    Thanks so much for checking out my blog. I’ve been a follower of yours for awhile and you always bring me back to where I believe! Thanks for having a super “extra” giveaway on top of the fabulous blog party! Hope you are enjoying your weekend!~

  18. so glad you joined in…this is my first time doing the big party!
    it’s great meeting new bloggers, too…
    hope you have a blessed weekend…our weather is gr8 so i’m going to try and get out in my garden
    🙂

  19. I checked out the blog party a couple of days ago and it confused me! LOL I’m not computer-savvy. I’ll check it out again, though, and see if I can figure it out.

    Love you,
    Beth :o)

  20. Hi, Elaine! Your post made me sigh, smile and pray. Well done.

    I’m glad that you stopped in over at my place and I look forward to getting to know you better via internet!

    Blessings to you, Sister! If we don’t get to share that mocha here on earth, I’ll hold you to the invite when we get to heaven, Ok? ;^)

  21. I’m telling you, I would love to sit with a cup of hot, our bibles and just soak up what you have to spill forth. I never stop here without making sure I have time to soak. I never leave without becoming better for having taken the time. I love you SO!

  22. I’ve been by your blog many, many times, but have never introduced myself. I always enjoy reading your posts. I learn so much from you.

    Thank you for being a blessing to so many!

  23. I’m visiting from the UBP, and really enjoyed your party post. Beautiful!

    Have fun partying!

  24. So nice to meet you Elaine (from another Elaine!). Your blog is beautiful in SO many ways!

    Thanks for stopping by mine during UPB ’09 and thanks so much for hosting a giveaway. That’s so nice of you to do.

    Hope to see you again! : )

  25. Peace is indeed a person, Elaine, and I’m so so grateful to know Him.

    I’m swimming in work deadlines so I hadn’t even heard of the blog party. Thanks for keeping me in the loop.

    Your blog is a blessing and I hope many more people become acquainted with you!

  26. Thanks for stopping by my blog. I live a little over an hour southeast of Raleigh. I look forward to following your blog!

  27. Elaine,

    Thanks for leaving a comment at (Desiring to be)A woman After God’s Own Heart. I came by for a visit and added you to my reader, so I’ll be back again soon. I’m so excited that God gives us the opportunity to connect with others via blogs and share what He’s teaching us. There’s nothing like a meaty blog to get me thinking! Thanks for sharing and following Him! May He continue to bless you richly!

  28. Elaine, you know how I love me a fun giveaway — count me in! 🙂

    By the way, I love how you always point to Jesus through your blog. Our desires are very much alike in that way. God bless you, dear sister!

  29. Elaine… I’m so glad that you’ve invited us to join you on your not-so-private journey! Your edification is cherished, sister!

    I hope this blog party gives others the opportunity to draw close to the Lord through the gift he has so aptly given you!

  30. Hey, chickadee! THis is wonderful…as always! I am so glad that God implores you with what He needs you to share with us on your blank canvas! One of the many reasons that I come back for more! I hope that you have a wonderful day, sweet friend!

    Hugs,
    Susan

  31. Elaine,

    I popped over here from Jean Stockdale’s blog. You have a lovely blog and I can’t wait to come back!

    Have a blessed day!
    Dori

  32. wifeforthejourney:

    Do you think anyone would notice if I won the StarBuck’s Gift card?

    Hope you are having fun at your party, love,

    Billy

  33. gift cards are my friend!!! Hoping and wishing and praying that I might get a chance to win. You know I visit often and love how you minister to my heart. Blessings sweet friend.

  34. It’s all about sharing because Jesus shared His love – His life for us and with us!

    I loved what you said:
    “To hold it as private … to hoard God’s love and his truth in selfish reserve … is to walk in isolation from the gift’s intention—a ministry that was always meant to be shared.”

    Jesus never stopped sharing His love and forgiveness up to His dying breath with proof in the thief who hung beside him on another cross.

    May our lives be a pattern after His own Heart! May we share away!

    Looking UPward and Choosing JOY,
    Stephanie
    [In Flight]

  35. Elaine,
    You have a beautiful blog and such a great post! I love the title of your blog too. Thank you for sharing your heart unashamedly.

    And thank you so much for the sweet encouraging words you left on my blog! That made my day! 😉

    May God bless you!

  36. great party post. our ‘seats’ are together at the party on the Mr. Linky. thanks for the intro to your blog.

  37. Oh, a party, what fun! I’ve probably already missed it, but I’ll check it out and see what’s up.

    It’s fun to see you “mixing it up.”
    🙂

    BTW, thanks for your wise words the other day. You were right on target!

    Love ya,
    Kelli

  38. I love a good party! Just say the word and I’m there. teehee.

    Starbucks is my way of splurging for some therapy.
    It just makes you feel happy inside!

  39. What a precious gift of writing you have! So glad to have met you through UBP! Have a great day!

  40. Hi Elaine,
    Thanks for coming by my blog.
    I thoroughly enjoyed reading your post. I will be back.
    Have you heard about the online audio conference over at `A Woman Inspired`
    http://www.awomaninspiredconference.org/
    They have cut the price in half, it’s now $12.95 Hope to see you there April 6 – 9

    Joyful@JoyfulJourney

  41. hopping by from the blog party, so glad to have found your site! I’ll be back to look around more~~come by if you can.

  42. How beautiful your blog is and inspiring! Party hopping and participating too so stop in for a visit.

  43. Elaine, thank you for letting Jesus shine through you! I love your site! The design is beautiful, the spirit–precious! I will be back again and again…

  44. Your “about me” is beautiful! I love it.

    Shout out to a fellow UBP Blogger!

    Hope to see you back at “my” place…Mondays are Making a Happy Home Monday….they are a lot of fun!

  45. Hello! Poppin’ in from The Ultimate Blog Party…all the way from Queensland, Australia! G’Day! I hope you have time to visit my party soon.

    I’m giving away Pink Champagne Shower Syrup from Jaqua Beauty…stop on over and enter! Ends April 8. Open to USA.

    Ta!

  46. Hey Elaine..
    Dropping in from UBP. Great testimony. Keep on spreading His glorious Word.
    Have a Blessed weekend.
    Debbie

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