Kathleen Friesen

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Oh, My Heart!

10/13/2019

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​Have you ever seen an object that spoke to your soul? One that drew you closer, calling you to listen?

Let’s back up just a bit. For years, I’d harbored a deep desire to watch the art of glass blowing. I’d read about it and seen it in movies, but seeing it in person hovered near the top of my bucket list. The beauty of blown glass amazes me and makes me wonder: How is molten glass shaped into gorgeous and often useful pieces? How are colors added? What tools are used to perform what seems to me to be magic?

Last week, while enjoying a long-awaited holiday on Vancouver Island, I may have mentioned (more than once) that I’d love to visit the glass art shop just a couple of blocks from our rented cabin. My husband, my sister, and her husband graciously agreed to stop and check it out.

But it wasn’t just an art shop. As soon as we entered, I looked past the beautiful creations to the work area. Joy flooded me like the best kind of hot flash—they actually made the pieces right there! When the lady at the desk said the artist would begin his next project in a few minutes, I foresaw another dream coming true. We wandered through the small shop, exclaiming over the intricate details, graceful shapes and exquisite colors.

As promised, within minutes we were treated to a display of skill and artistry as the glass blower transformed a misshapen glob of molten glass into a lovely, multicolored vase. I was enthralled. I think we all were.

It was as wonderful as I’d hoped. Even better, though, was the glass art that spoke to me as I wandered through the enchanted shop. So much beauty! One could not rush, as each trinket and piece outshone the others. I thought I’d seen it all, when I glanced down. A basket on the floor held several glass hearts, swirls of color making them seem somehow alive.

As I gazed at them, my hand reached down and picked up one. It seems fanciful, I know, but it seemed as though it chose me. I knew immediately what it represented.

Within the thick, clear glass, this heart’s top portion is green, the color of life. The bottom part is a rich yet delicate pink, symbolizing love. Binding the two is a sparkling swirl of gold dust. Gold for grace, faith, and hope. And because it's glass, it's fragile and needs a gentle touch. "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it" (Proverbs 4:23). How amazing is that?

How the artist achieved this stunning work of art is a mystery, and now I hold this mystery in my hands. It is my birthday gift from my wonderful husband, one I will always cherish.

I’m convinced the entire experience was orchestrated by my Lord Jesus Christ, not only to show His love, but to remind me of the glorious riches of the mystery of “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27).

Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.

​P.S. The photo doesn't do this precious heart justice, as reflections mar the image. May we always reflect the beauty of Christ, letting Him shine through us.

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Book Review: Dark Ambitions

10/10/2019

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TITLE:  Dark Ambitions (Code of Honor #3)
AUTHOR:  Irene Hannon
DATE:  2019
PUBLISHER: Revell
STARS: *****

Former Army Night Stalker Rick Jordan usually has his camp for foster children to himself during the winter months. But someone has visited recently--leaving a trail of blood. One of the two clues left behind tips Rick off to the identity of his visitor, who soon turns up dead. The police deem it an accident, but Rick isn't convinced. With the help of private investigator Heather Shields, he sets out to decipher the remaining clue. Except someone doesn't want them to succeed--and will stop at nothing to keep them from finding the truth.

After reading some Christian suspense novels whose violence disturbed me, I was ready to give up on that category of books. But Irene Hannon has never failed me with either sweet romances or page-flipping suspense, so I gave Dark Ambitions a chance. I’m glad I did. Suspense? Definitely. Romance? Oh, yeah. Toe-tingling, in fact.

Ms. Hannon’s first two Code of Honor books had primed me to enjoy Dark Ambitions, and reconnecting with the crew at Phoenix Inc. was a joy. Heather, the “new girl” in a tight-knit group, quickly gained my admiration with her determination to succeed tempered by fear of another failure.

Rick makes a perfect hero—impressive good looks, deeply caring, unyielding in his quest for justice, and yet troubled by his past, too.
​
The supporting cast of characters added much to the story, sometimes eliciting a smile. Even the villain evoked some sympathy, evidence of Ms. Hannon’s amazing talent. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story and award it five stars. Recommended!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of Dark Ambitions courtesy of Graf-Martin Communications and Baker Publishing Group.
 

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    I’ve always loved music, even before the writing bug hit. Grace notes are little extras, not the actual melody. Just something that adds to the feel of the music. My desire for this blog is to encourage and bless readers, to share a little grace.

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