Jewell Utt

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    NEW BOOK RELEASE - Jewell Utt

    Exciting News! A new book release, “Behold A Tree, Roots of Resilience ~ Branches of Hope.” This was a long project requiring lots of research and thought. I hope you enjoy it. In each chapter you’ll find *a unique story revolving around an individual and a tree, *facts about the particular tree, *a biblical perspective,... [Read More]

    1 min readBook
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    It's All About Love - Jewell Utt

    1 John 4:7 says, “Love one another.” For me, May is the month of love. It’s my wedding anniversary and the month we filed to make Community Blend an official nonprofit. This is a special time of year where Passion, Purpose and Promise come alive and everything seems possible. Challenges are no longer an obstacle,... [Read More]

    2 min readLove Articles
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    Where Have You Been? - Jewell Utt

    Our goal is to look at circumstances through a fresh lens. We welcome all people, whether their eyes are blue, brown or red. We are so grateful for second chances and want to share true hope with all who come through our doors.

    3 min read
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    Watching God Work is Amazing - Jewell Utt

    Community Blend has come a long way in 2021. With the undergirding of our powerful prayer team, we struggled through the nonprofit paperwork, anxiously awaited confirmation and acceptance to become a 501c3, enlisted a Board of Directors, volunteers, gained financial support, secured a location, purchased all equipment needed to open, and held our first event. A success!

    2 min read
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    Community Blend - Jewell Utt

    For several years I’ve wanted to open a charitable organization. Thirty years ago, I toyed with the dream of having a soup kitchen. My desire was to help the homeless providing food, love and the gospel message.

    3 min read
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    Renewed Vibrancy - Jewell Utt

    As the CDC sets new mask guidelines, and vendors get back to business as usual, we too, can take a deep breath. Because the season of our confinement is coming to an end. Although it’s a relief, we have to identify the resulting good, before we jump back into the fray.

    4 min read
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    Whiter than Snow - Jewell Utt

    Cleanse me, and I will be whiter than snow. Ps 51:7 The snow leaves behind an awesome landscape of brightness, glistening in the sunlight. Whether you love winter or prefer spring, you can’t deny the beauty outside.

    2 min read
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    The Covid Effect - Jewell Utt

    As we look back on this unusual year, let’s also take the opportunity to reflect on our state of mind. The things that are truly important and those which are not.

    5 min read
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    Stay Safe And Don't Fear - Jewell Utt

    The rocks were slippery. I knew I’d fall into the ocean if I climbed on them. I imagined the violent waves sweeping me away before my beloved even knew I was gone. So, I stayed safe and didn’t venture into the unknown. After all, no lifeguards were on duty to rescue me.

    4 min read
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    FAll is A Season for Change - Jewell Utt

    The Bible teaches us that God calls for unity and like-mindedness, not uniformity of thought. We will have differing opinions because we are uniquely created. But when we follow the same playbook, our standards of respect, selflessness, and humility trump any desire to act recklessly.

    3 min read
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    August Meditations - Jewell Utt

    The month of August usually highlights the end of relaxed summer days for the return to a more ordered schedule. But this year is different. The Covid virus ushered in an age of uncertainty and perhaps lasting change. History has never seen the challenges we face today. Shut in for five months and counting, businesses... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    "Hanging Out With Jesus" - Jewell Utt

    On June 25th, I’m joining Lyvita Brooks on her Podcast Hanging Out with Jesus. Together we will discuss how to invigorate your devotional time. Based on my recent book, Consider the Birds – Reflections to Make You Soar, we’ll talk about how the beauty of nature organically causes you to slow down and reflect. You’ll... [Read More]

    4 min read
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    Why Should I Read the Bible? - Jewell Utt

    In an age of endless self-help resources, why would anyone consider reading the Bible? Because we are in day 60 of a national lock-down, and we have a golden opportunity to research the most important questions of life. What is truth? Where did we come from? Why are we here? What happens when we die?... [Read More]

    4 min read
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    The Covid-19 Position - Jewell Utt

    Schools close, businesses halt, the Dow plunges, international travel is reduced, and most people isolate. While social distancing takes hold, the birds act as if nothing has happened. And why not? Because nothing in their world has changed. The Bible tells us that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever. Heb 13:8.... [Read More]

    2 min read
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    Love Equals Forgiveness - Jewell Utt

    In 2004, a group of teenagers went for a joy ride, after stealing a credit card and purchasing a frozen turkey. Hyped up from their crime and looking for more action, one boy made an impulsive decision. Against protests from the other teens, he proceeded to hurl the turkey out the window, at an oncoming vehicle.

    4 min read
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    2020, A Year for Perfect Vision - Jewell Utt

    The Red-tailed Hawk is fast becoming my symbol of hope. It inspired my first book. Now, here I am in the middle of January, dry in thought, then I go out onto the deck and there it is again. Not only one, but five or six raptors are flying high.

    3 min read
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    October Book Release - Jewell Utt

    “Consider the Birds ~ Reflections to Make You Soar” contrasts avian behavior with common human characteristics. Personal and biblical stories will draw you into a deeper appreciation for creation and the Creator.

    2 min read
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    Dangers Hide in Plain Sight - Jewell Utt

    The kitten nipped the grass… peacefully unaware that a ravenous fox watched from the woods. Overhead a hawk circled, his eye intent on a target. His target wasn’t the large dog that had wandered into the back yard. He contentedly sniffed and hadn’t yet noticed the kitten. Suddenly, a loud bark interrupted the quiet scene,... [Read More]

    2 min read
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    The Three Little Pigs - Jewell Utt

    By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. Proverbs 24:3-4 NIV As a child, one of my favorite fables included The Three Little Pigs. I loved hearing the dramatic adaptation on the record player. The intensity of the music, while... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    ADJUSTMENTS - Jewell Utt

    As I watched a Red-Tailed Hawk soar through the air I imagined what peace the freedom to fly brings. Alone, with no apparent threat of predators, he soared high, putting no thought into the mechanics of flight as he expertly navigated the currents. Birds learn to fly by flying. They test the skies, the wind,... [Read More]

    2 min read
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    THE CHRISTMAS TREE - Jewell Utt

    For many people, Christmastime is a season that is cold, busy, and demanding. One they would rather forget than embrace. Between parties, spending, and uncomfortable family gatherings, their joy is overshadowed by grief. Thank God for the Christmas Tree! Its decorated beauty can illuminate our path to Merry and Bright. The Christmas Tree is: ~A... [Read More]

    2 min read
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    Give Thanks To God - Jewell Utt

    Give thanks in all circumstances for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus. I Thessalonians 5:19 November opens the door to a special season. A time for family and friends to give thanks to God. On this special day, our family spends time around the table sharing the blessings of each... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    A Season of Change - Jewell Utt

    By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called . . . . And he went out, not knowing where he was going. —Hebrews 11:8 In a popular hit song, Andy Williams names Christmas as “the most wonderful time of the year.” But not for me! Nothing awakens my senses like the season of Fall. I... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    Remembering 9-11 - Jewell Utt

    I felt numb as I drove to the middle school that day. It was the morning of 9-11, shortly after the first attack. I was unnerved by the eerie silence inside a building filled with vibrant students. They must have heard the news. As I entered the music room, the teacher’s wide eyes locked with... [Read More]

    2 min read
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    Preparation and Obedience - Jewell Utt

    “And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” Esther 4:14 My morning was rushed, due to a friend’s call for prayer. I multi-tasked, raced out the door and arrived at my destination in record time. I was driving to a farm that supplies our food pantry... [Read More]

    4 min read
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    Do Animals Have Feelings? - Jewell Utt

    I’ve often wondered if wild animals feel sadness, hurt, or loss. I learned the answer today. As the saddest display unfolded in my backyard. Two vultures were on the ground while several circled overhead. I knew prey was in their sight. A few minutes earlier I had glanced out to see the resident groundhog milling... [Read More]

    4 min read
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    Time Is Not Ours To Decide - Jewell Utt

    Death exemplifies how fleeting life is and how abruptly it can end. It’s a somber reminder that we are not in control. We are not guaranteed tomorrow or even our next breath. It’s hard to believe life can end at any time. When we lose friends unexpectedly, we are harshly reminded that time is not... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    A Look Back At MOM - Jewell Utt

    As I take a look back at Mom, I’m struck by this amazing woman. She accomplished more in her life by age 40 than most of us do today. She had seven children, a college education, a promising career, a good church, a Christian support group, and a family that stuck together through thick and... [Read More]

    2 min read
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    THE FOUR "I WILLS" - Jewell Utt

    On a Thursday at sundown, thousands of years ago, Jesus reclined with his disciples to share a final meal; we remember it as The Last Supper. Rich in meaning and detail, it signified the coming of a New Covenant. And He took bread, gave thanks, broke it, gave it to them, and said, “This is My... [Read More]

    4 min read
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    Boasting and Beating - Jewell Utt

    Two extremes are at work in society today, boasting and beating. Boasting comes through exaggeration and self-promotion, and is propagated via social media, in the workplace, and anywhere people tend to congregate. The beating surfaces in more intimate settings: among friends, in small groups, and in conversations we have with ourselves. The more we do... [Read More]

    4 min read
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    Resolutions Versus Reasonable Goals - Jewell Utt

    Congratulations! You did it. The admirable goals you set in 2017 have all been met. You lost the weight, improved your finances, built relationships, finished a project, and embarked on a long standing dream. You are part of the 8% who made New Year’s resolutions and kept them all. I however, fall into the 92%... [Read More]

    4 min read
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    A Heart Filled With Joy - Jewell Utt

    As I write this morning, I’m seated in the hospital for the second time in eight days. I’m awaiting the doctor’s call that my husband is out of surgery, all went well, and I can rejoin him in recovery. Instead of anguish, these past few weeks my heart is filled with joy. God’s perfect timing... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    Not Everyone is Merry and Bright - 7 Steps To Holiday Peace - Jewell Utt

    The holidays are upon us. Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve will race by as usual. And as usual, we’ll wonder how they passed so fast. Later, as we assess the financial and emotional outcome, we’re left to consider the value it had. Rather than allow the days to escape unchecked, let’s slow things down... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    Wearing Masks - Jewell Utt

    In October, we see people in disguise. But how alert are we to their everyday Masks? Masks allow evil to hide in plain sight, casually grafted into society.

    2 min read
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    Where Were YOU on 9-11? - Jewell Utt

    Where Were YOU On 9-11? Everyone remembers something about that day. The day the “Axis of Evil” spun in our direction. We watched in utter shock at the terror that threatened our nation. The news images of the first Tower being hit, then its Twin…the Pentagon and finally the crash of flight 93; where passengers... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    Lessons from Noah - Jewell Utt

    But God remembered Noah and all the wild animals and the livestock that were with him in the ark. And He sent a wind over the earth, and the waters receded. Genesis 8:1 But God remembered Noah? Had he forgotten about Noah along the way? Did distractions cause God to forget His own plan for... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    Seasons of Time - Jewell Utt

    Time slips past. Months feel like weeks. Years like months. The good is, if time is a healer, bad simply has to wait a week or two. The bad is, great vacations and good times end too abruptly. So what’s the answer? Be content in season and out. When things are good be thankful, and when things are... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    THE BREAD OF LIFE - Jewell Utt

    Imagine Christ, his arms outstretched, welcoming all who would come. That’s what I see when I look at the entrance of our new food pantry location. The double doors open out from the center reaching into the community. We have moved to our church building from a property located miles away. A special Spirit resides within this place.... [Read More]

    2 min read
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    Mental Wellness Seminar – A Biblical View - Jewell Utt

    Mental Wellness Seminar – A Biblical View Presented by Fred Jacoby, MA – Director – Foundations Christian Counseling Services Seeking Mental, Emotional, & Spiritual Health Saturday, June 3, 2017 8:30 AM – 3:00 PM Fellowship Church 300 Cromwell Street Phillipsburg, NJ 08865 Join us for a Biblical look at the mental health issues we face... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    God Blooms where you live - Jewell Utt

    GOD BLOOMS He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NIV) Forsythia bushes line one side of my driveway. They create a beautiful border between the road and property. I wanted them planted so I could enjoy spring... [Read More]

    2 min read
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    How To Accomplish Your Goals in the New Year - Jewell Utt

    The New Year is well underway. Ideas are stirring for growth and opportunity because a new year represents new hope. Will your plans come to pass or fizzle out as the weeks go by? Whether it’s better health, more time with the Lord, developing an idea, or rekindling an old friendship… it requires motivation. Motivation is... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    What Task Have You Laid Down? TAKE IT UP - Jewell Utt

    What task have you laid down? Take it up. God is encouraging you to move forward with boldness and confidence. When you experience hardship and confusion–doubt and despair are not far behind. If you are like me, you squash those “feelings” and focus on an area of immediate need. Not dwelling on the overwhelming aspects of... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    He Shall Reign Forever - A Christmas Story - Jewell Utt

    The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light… Isaiah 9:2 (ESV) To fully understand the story of Christmas, we have to understand the historical setting depicted in Isaiah 9. It was a time of deep darkness. An age of violence, domination and oppression. A time referred to as Pax Romana–the peace of... [Read More]

    2 min read
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    Whispers Of Hope - Jewell Utt

    Waiting is hard. Especially when we know God has called us to a special purpose. Yet time and logistics conspire to rob His cause from our lives. Rather than allow this period to usher in doubt, use it to listen. For God has Whispers of Hope, love, and promise meant just for us. Looking ahead to plan and prepare are good.... [Read More]

    2 min read
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    The Trees Are Clapping - Jewell Utt

    The trees are clapping. It is not a mistake. As I stroll the beautiful landscape of fall, their cheers are evident. So vibrant and robust that they are falling out of their seats! But why I ask? Why cheer? What has happened? Half of the country is revolting, half are breathing a sigh of relief. Both viewing the... [Read More]

    2 min read
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    JUST PRAY - NOT WORRY - Jewell Utt

    I picked up the phone, forgetting dad was gone. He gave wise counsel and never allowed a problem to defeat. His approach was to stand. Not worry, just pray.

    3 min read
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    Too Busy To Connect - Jewell Utt

    How is it possible that our time in history is called The Age of Loneliness? There are more opportunities for us to connect today than ever before.

    4 min read
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    A View From The Sanctuary - Jewell Utt

    When I tried to understand all this, it troubled me deeply till I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood their final destiny. Psalms 73:16-17 We all struggle with doubt from time to time. Even people with a deep and abiding faith in God. Doubts arise from circumstances, family, friends, intellectual pursuits, and of course Satan. It’s... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    Always Behind Me - Jewell Utt

    Memories of Dad resound. It’s a melody in the background of my mind that’s always playing. Sometimes a special arrangement–memory–catches my ear and I dwell there for a time. Inevitably, an immediate need of the day pushes it back. Time, in different measure for God, should render a lesson. We’ll meet again, worthy goals deserve a... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    THE FOUR "I WILLS" - Jewell Utt

    On a Thursday at sundown, thousands of years ago, Jesus reclined with his disciples to share a final meal; we remember it as The Last Supper. Rich in meaning and detail, it signified the coming of a New Covenant. And He took bread, gave thanks, broke it, gave it to them, and said, “This is... [Read More]

    4 min read
  • Imprisoned - Jewell Utt

    I was in jail. Not for a crime, but to visit a former student. He seemed young for this situation, but his face revealed a harder life than most. We were in rooms separated by glass; at desks with a phone and partition on each side. I did not feel safe. An officer stood guard... [Read More]

    2 min read
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    Don't Shrink Back - Jewell Utt

    And if he shrinks back I will not be pleased with him. Hebrews 10:38 NIV NOT pleased with me! What a contrast to, You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased(Luke 3:22). Pleasing God is my greatest desire, but I know I fall short—hindered by imperfect vision. In Hebrews, we... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • Happy New Year - Jewell Utt

    And we’re off… 2016 is here leaving 2015 in the dust. The year passed at lightning speed and brought many changes. One worth a mention is that we have a new Pastor at our church. He’s a vibrant young man with a dynamic message. And we’re so happy to welcome him along with the New... [Read More]

    2 min read
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    Have a Mary Christmas - Jewell Utt

    Whispers of the season stir some curious thoughts. Chatter ranges from hectic schedules, to parties, shopping, and finally exhaustion. It’s joy mixed with the nuisance of doing. Holidays are a busy time, but what month of the year is not? We are a fast paced society, our tasks are not limited to seasonal celebrations. Festivities... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    The Christmas Cactus - Jewell Utt

    Must we tolerate deception even in our houseplants? Christmas Cacti bloom in October or February, not December as the name suggests. Research shows they can produce flowers at Christmastime, if trained under the correct conditions. Left alone, flowers occur at a more appropriate time, a perfect time. It reminds me God is never late, nor is He... [Read More]

    3 min read
  • Reaching For An Extraordinary Life - Jewell Utt

    “For if they do these things when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?” Luke 23:31 (HCSB) October is an amazing month. In September a gun sounds and the race begins, as school and church ministries resume. By October, routines are established and blessings start to pour forth. One is the... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • Desiring Death - Jewell Utt

    We live in a world of fast paces and great need. Our family needs us, our church needs us, our community needs us. We are bound to grow weary and we are in good company. Moses, Elijah, Jonah, and Paul all experienced the emotional toll of serving others. They struggled with weariness brought on... [Read More]

    2 min read
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    Unfriended - Offline - Jewell Utt

    Conflicts, misunderstandings, rejection, all reasons people will part ways. In an imperfect world we are liable to make a mistake when it comes to our friendships. When I think about the grace that Jesus expressed to us, knowing our weaknesses, I wonder why we cannot extend that to each other. Instead we are quick to... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • UNFRIENDED - Jewell Utt

    The Internet is a scary place with many camouflaged dangers. Children are lured by predators. Bullies declare open season on their victims. People respond impulsively to later regret their hasty words. The truth is anyone can pretend anything online and at some level many do. Today begins a discussion on the Internet challenges and temptations of... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    A House of Cards - Jewell Utt

    By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures. Proverbs 24:3-4 (NIV) It’s raining again. Gray clouds cast darkness over my typically sun-filled space. I’m sensitive to the imposing shadow. It dims my glow. A quick scan of the room reveals... [Read More]

    2 min read
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    Death and Deception - Jewell Utt

    Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, and clever in their own sight! Isaiah 5:21(NIV) My backyard is a beautiful sight. Mountains encircle the valley, where acres display God’s awesome creation: wildlife, plant life, raptors gliding and swooping. It’s a treat for my eyes and a boost to my spirit as I... [Read More]

    3 min read
  • The Wedding and Forevermore - Jewell Utt

    A beautiful day, a radiant bride, a happy son, a perfect location. Thus begins the story of happily ever after. Yet, Forevermore doesn’t just happen. It comes through hard work, patience, maturity, and a deep desire to know the other person intimately. It is essentially a choice. A choice we are ecstatic to make in... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • A Study Of Mom - Jewell Utt

    From the start, women enter into the role of Mom with pain, some conflict, and anxiety. To the woman he said, “I will make your pains in childbearing very severe; with painful labor you will give birth to children. Genesis 3:16 Now that wasn’t nice, but it’s a fact of life we accept. Thankfully, we are... [Read More]

    3 min read
  • A Privilege to Help - Jewell Utt

    Humanitarian causes are important to most people. When we hear about hunger, slavery, distress, homelessness, it tugs at our heart strings. Hearing is a gift, but seeing is a game changer. It’s easy to take our comfortable lives for granted and turn a blind eye to the suffering around us. Human Trafficking is an evil... [Read More]

    3 min read
  • Hunger Is No Game - Jewell Utt

    Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. John 6:35 Eight hundred and forty million people worldwide don’t have enough food to satisfy basic nutritional needs. One out of every six Americans face hunger. Food insecurity is a problem... [Read More]

    3 min read
  • WAITING PATIENTLY - Jewell Utt

    I’m patiently waiting for this weather to pass. To enjoy Spring with its warmth, flowers, and new inspiration. Waiting can serve as a good time to rely on God and to assess circumstances, but there’s a downside. Are you wise in your waiting? By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through... [Read More]

    3 min read
  • Keep In Time - Jewell Utt

    Great things are on the horizon. They take shape before my eyes; as I witness God’s unmistakable hand on people and circumstances. The ripple effect of life’s small moments are all used by God in the larger scheme of things. Sometimes I struggle to keep this in mind. I’m sure you’ve been there too. Watching... [Read More]

    3 min read
  • The Duck and The Turtle - Jewell Utt

    The day was clear and pleasant. The water’s effect soothing; dependable for a quick reprieve from life. As twigs floated by, gentle ripples guided their paths. Mesmerized, I strained to separate the sky from the depths below. I could see fish swimming around clouds, navigating trees that swayed in their path. Still the surface remained... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • One Son Shines For Us All - Jewell Utt

    I walked through a town filled with people of alternate lifestyles. My initial surprise at this blatant disregard for society’s norm compromised my good graces. As I engaged people in light conversation, something odd began to stir in my spirit. I liked them. They were real people, creations of my God. I yearned for them to experience the... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • The Christmas Bill - Jewell Utt

    My peaceful walk through the forest was disturbed by sounds of distress. It was a goose wildly shaking his bill, caught in some type of barbed wire. As I cautiously approached, I could see it was scared. My help would only panic him more. I called Animal Control, who amazingly came right over. They sedated the bird to... [Read More]

    3 min read
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    Getting Fat On The Word - Jewell Utt

    You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. Galatians 5:13 It’s a privilege to sit in church and hear the Word of God preached every week. In many countries around the world Christianity is illegal. The free... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • To Vote Or Not To Vote... - Jewell Utt

    We live in a country that allows us to vote. Yet many people don’t exercise their right to have a voice. You may be surprised to learn that most people you know are not registered to vote. Of those registered some have never declared–they haven’t voted. Others only vote during a presidential election year, and... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • Be A Friend, Accept a Friend - Jewell Utt

    “Can we talk?” my friend asked. “Sure.” She dabbed at her eyes and with a quivering voice, apologized for being such a disappointment to me. “I haven’t been faithful to Bible study or in other ministries and I feel terrible. I’ve let you down.” I looked deep into her serious eyes and burst into laughter. Now it was... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • Human Trafficking - Jewell Utt

    A crisis abounds in our world. It’s also in the US, in our states and in your community. You may name several causes before you arrive at human trafficking, but the fact is, it’s the second largest criminal activity next to the sale of drugs. Gangs, pimps, cartels, organized crime have noticed this lucrative venture.... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • Rest and Refreshment - Jewell Utt

    Aqua waves swelled and broke at my feet, tickling my toes. I wiggled them deep into the sand, scratching the itch, and watched as water refilled each hole. It became a game to see if I could create a space that would remain. The only way I discovered, was to move away from the water.... [Read More]

    3 min read
  • Is There Hope For Every Man? - Jewell Utt

    Casting Crowns captured my heart with their song Every Man. There is hope for every man. A solid place where we can stand. In this dry and weary land, there is hope for every man. Jesus ministers to a world in need through His church. Hope and solid ground is found there. Rob Cook recently shared this... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • Poor Behavior Speaks Loudly - Jewell Utt

    For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:11 (ESV) I sat in the arena listening to a coach instruct parents on good sportsmanship. It saddened me to think this is a necessary talk,... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • Border Crossings - Jewell Utt

    Sonam’s eyes glistened as she crossed the border into her new life. An array of stray emotions played in her heart. Leaving Nepal was difficult. She’d miss her younger brothers and sisters–her mom who worked tirelessly to care for them, eight in all. As the oldest, she decided to step out in search of a... [Read More]

    4 min read
  • Christmas in July - Jewell Utt

    The scent of curried vegetables wafted through the air. It drew attention away from the main dish– a Prime Rib with vegetable au jus. Side dishes surpassed the efforts of everyday fare. From twice baked potatoes with sprinkled cheese and bacon, to Waldorf salad, homemade wheat crescents, and a rainbow jello parfait. Guests were in... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • When Love... - Jewell Utt

    I’m preparing for a Bridal shower. It’s a last minute arrangement, amiss a busy week of writing commitments and social affairs. I was asked why I’d agree to pile one more thing onto an already busy schedule. The answer flowed as easily as breath…”To bless the ones I love.” It made me ponder the complexity... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • EXPECTATIONS - Jewell Utt

    Expectations are a funny thing. We set boundaries for ourselves based on experiences, values, and the world around us. But are our lessons valuable to someone else’s life? Yes, if they learn them on their own and at their own pace. Learning through personal experience is the key that unlocks the standards by which we... [Read More]

    3 min read
  • Let it Go - Jewell Utt

    Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate. Proverbs 31:31 (NIV) My mom was a gentle, God fearing woman. She worked hard for her family. Leaving her country she traveled to the USA, to work as a nurse. She wanted a better life... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • She Leads - Jewell Utt

    Register now: This promotion ends on June 1st – Bring 3 women from your team and the 4th goes FREE Here’s a terrific resource for women in ministry. This opportunity will motivate and rejuvenate you and your team. Too often we find ourselves thrown into ministry with little or no preparation. Join us for a day... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • BEING REAL - Jewell Utt

    We refuse to wear masks and play games. 2Cor 4:2 (MSG) The Virginia Tech mascot is a turkey affectionately referred to as the “Hokie” bird. One souvenir is a stuffed animal with a secret. After careful inspection, his secret may still remain undiscovered. The head of the turkey, if pulled back firmly, is really a clever mask. It’s a... [Read More]

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  • A Tribute to Virginia Tech - Jewell Utt

    Seven years ago I received a call from my son, a student at Virginia Tech. It was the year of the shooting. Thirty-two lives of promise were ended on one solemn day. It’s a day I will never forget. My heart and prayers continue for the families, students and faculty who lived through it. We... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • The Eye Of The Storm - Jewell Utt

    The eye is a very sensitive organ. The smallest of particles can be detected when they invade. From a speck of mascara to an eyelash, anything that doesn’t belong causes irritation and requires immediate attention. Chronic issues, such as dry eyes or allergies can be managed daily. But even those need special attention to prevent... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • Strength, Courage and Wisdom - Jewell Utt

    Strength, courage and wisdom. Some days it’s hard to find. I encountered a young woman at the library. Her eyes were sad, her spirit troubled. Problems were mounting and she couldn’t see a way out. I wasn’t sure if I should approach her, but I took the chance. I did it because I had known another... [Read More]

    2 min read
  • When Your Step Has Lost its Spring - Jewell Utt

    You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Psalm 16:11 When life changes we’re caught off guard. Routine is comfortable, but comfort doesn’t challenge us to greater heights. Whether change stems from job, family, health, aging, divorce or... [Read More]

    3 min read
  • UNTIL - Jewell Utt

    But God remembered Noah And all the wild animals and the livestock that were with him in the ark, and he sent a wind over the earth, and the waters receded. Genesis 8:1 But God remembered Noah…had He forgotten him–the plan? Most people recognize the phrase forty days and forty nights as The Great Flood. The... [Read More]

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