"Trey Tuesday" - December 29, 2015

Holi-dazed?

Have you taken time off work/school this week?  Have your plans of nothing-ness gone smoothly?  Are you sitting around in your PJs for hours on end enjoying the remnants of eggnog and sugar cookies?  No?  Life not going according to your expectations?

That puts you in good company!  The Wise Men had just spent time with the precious Christ Child, presenting their gifts after their long journey.  I can imagine they were looking forward to their return trip home, anxious to tell of their travels.  Plans changed, however, when they were warned in a dream to go home "another way" in order to avoid answering to Herod.  Joseph and Mary also experienced a spontaneous Plan B when Joseph was told in a dream to take his family to Egypt!

God has detailed reasons for our changes of plans, with repercussions well beyond our comprehension.  We must trust His divine wisdom, whether it's a canceled appointment, a sick child, a broken down car.....even when it means the loss of a precious loved one.

Let's finish out this holiday season with open minds and hearts, ready to hear and heed God's will. 

“Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to Your Word.”  Luke 1:38

"Trey Tuesday" - December 22, 2015

Which One are You?

I look at the Nativity scene and I wonder where I fit in....And I pass on that challenge to you...
Where do you fit in?

 

As a humble shepherd?  "there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night."  Luke 2:8

A wayward sheep?  "We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way"  Isaiah 53:6

A donkey?  (No explanation necessary!)  :)

The available and welcoming stable?  "there was no place for them in the inn."  Luke 2:7

Joseph?  "he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him"  Matthew 1:24

Mary?  "Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.”  Luke 2:19

An angel?  "I bring you Good News that will cause great joy for all the people."  Luke 2:10

A star?  "Let light shine out of darkness"  2 Corinthians 4:6

Each and every one of us has something to offer...some unique way of sharing who we are with others -  a special touch no one else can do.  Take some time right now to listen for how God can use you in the life of someone near you this Christmas.

I'm so thankful for Team Mitlo One and the critical role each person played in the life of Trey, and I'm thankful for you now in the lives of Jay, Rachel, Joe and Bella.
Thank you for sharing the gift of YOU!  :)

"God Himself gives life and breath to everything, and He satisfies every need."  Acts 17:25

"Trey Tuesday" - December 15, 2015

What's in a Name?

Trey - our Young Warrior.  His name said it all!  :)

Emmanuel - God with us.

"The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call Him Emmanuel (which means 'God is with us').  Isaiah 7:14

What a wonderful Name for that innocent Baby Jesus, born so many years ago!
God with US!  Here!  Now!

His Name says it all!  :)

It's very easy for us to envision Baby Jesus, lying in his mother's arms.  You can even imagine His sweet newborn face seeming like a piece of God brought to earth.

But fast forward a few decades to Jesus hanging on a cross with His mother watching on.
He was equally as innocent then as He was the day He was born.

But it's all Good News!  God is with us now because we, and all our sins, were with Him on that cross!  :)

Emmanuel.

God is with y-o-u.

"She will give birth to a son, and you are to give Him the name Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins.”  Matthew 1:21

"Trey Tuesday" - December 8, 2015

The Gift of Jury Duty

Yes, you read that right - I appreciate the gift I received at jury duty yesterday.

Long, wonderful story short, God gave me the gift of Himself yesterday.  I encountered extraordinarily heavy traffic as I drove the 20 miles to jury duty, arriving with moments to spare.  Not sure which entrance to use, I logically followed the woman in front of me who was also holding a jury summons card.  After a very few minutes of small talk, the woman and I discovered that we not only live 2 miles apart, but share our faith, doctors, acquaintances and places of work!  We instantly bonded, journeying through the jury selection process together!  (Neither one of us was chosen, though.)

Will she become a new friend now that life is back to "normal?"  Will we visit and have coffee together?  I'm not sure.  (She's a very busy mom of young children.) However, I view this unusual circumstance as directly orchestrated by God to set us both at ease and encourage us (and amuse us!) in an otherwise stressful situation - a gift we found in the justice system one day.

As I continue to read the comments and experiences that the friends of Team Mitlo One share, I consider you all as gifts.  We may never have a conversation or a cup of coffee together, but I treasure the bond that God has built through the life of our sweet treasure, Trey.

"I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.  It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart...And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God."  Philippians 1:3-11

"Trey Tuesday" - December 1, 2015

What's next!?!?

Thanksgiving Thursday

Black Friday

Small Business Saturday

Sunday - a day to worship, rest, and check your bank balance

Cyber Monday

Giving Tuesday

Whew!  All this and it's only December 1!  How will we survive the next 24 days until Christmas!?

Do you ever feel like you live from one hottest fire to the next?  Do you find yourself saying, "As soon as I get out of this meeting, I'll feel better." or "I can't wait until college finals are over"?

As soon as it arrived, Trey would study the Target or Toys R Us Christmas catalog, day after day after day.  He wasn't worried about the prices or the availability or the shipping fees.  He lived 100% (maybe 110%!) in the present moment.

The birds of the air are loving this 50 degree weather.  They are not fretting about when this "warming" trend is going to break.  Even my little green plants still think it is growing season, and they're growing!

Take a deeeeeeeeep breath.  Yes, Christmas is coming, but it's not here yet.

"But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth His Son"  Galatians 4:4

"Trey Tuesday" - November 24, 2015

Ponder lately?

We live in such a fast paced culture, we rarely have/make/take time to look back on the events of our lives.  Summer vacations come and go so quickly!  Weddings, graduations, birthdays - poof! - over!

My phone has such a small memory I am constantly going through my photos, pondering/considering which photos are "worthy" of keeping and which get deleted.  It is fun to scroll back through and remember people, places and events which have quickly vanished from my mind as soon as I turned the calendar page.

Thanksgiving is a good time to ponder.  Ponder the many blessings we have.  Ponder the way God has provided when there seemed to be no other way.  Consider the people who have entered your life this year, those you never could have imagined knowing so well.

Before you leave this post, take a quick moment to ponder your day today.  God is so very faithfully weaving together a journey to show you His love.  Jay is always so good at sharing ponderings of God working through our Young Warrior.  What do your ponderings reveal?

"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.
Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story— and ponder the loving deeds of the Lord."Psalm 107:1,2,43

"Trey Tuesday" - November 17, 2015

Storytelling Social Media style

Facebook, Twitter and the rest of social media can most definitely have a bad reputation.  At just the click of a key, news can spread faster than any old fashioned gossip chain!  Yes, bad news travels fast on social media. Weird news seems to travel even faster!  Imagine the potential impact we have via sites like YouTube!  In 5 days, GoPro dad has clocked 5,464,517 views of his 4:17 video.  This equals over 23 million minutes = Almost 48 years!!!

I hope you stop to consider though, the many good aspects of being connected with "friends" and family around the world!   What power we have in 2015 to share GOOD NEWS!  :)  God calls us to remember His provision and faithfulness and to praise Him!  Psalm 105:1 "Give praise to the LORD, proclaim His name; make known among the nations what He has done."

As he mentioned in his latest website post, http://jaymitlo.com/still-dealing-with-death-and-life/, Jay would like his family to participate in some storytelling about "Trey week" - the many experiences and testimonies we encountered during the most difficult time after Trey's passing.  Will you please pray for us as this unfolds in the very near future?

Here is a sneak peak into the many ways God sustained us:

Trey Tuesday for November 11, 2014:

God's Faithfulness....

We must remember.
We must remember.
We must remember.

God has shown His faithfulness over and over and over again throughout Trey's life.
And God has shown His faithfulness over and over and over again throughout Trey's death.
And now each one of us must trust God's faithfulness as we reenter into the everyday...

We MUST remember God's faithfulness!

"Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful."
Hebrews 10:23

I had the most blessed opportunity to spend the past week with Joe and Bella (and Jay and Rachel and many, many other Mitlos!)  :)  It was Bella who began our week long journal which is entitled:  MIRACLES ABOUND!  It started when Bella spotted a rainbow in the sky on Thursday afternoon.  Just one day after losing her brother, this precious princess gasps and shrieks, "A rainbow!" with the most innocent joy!  J-O-Y!?!?  Yes, joy!  :)

Joe's first miracle came in the shape of boy's size 14 slim pants that fit perfectly, found within 2 minutes of shopping!  M-I-R-A-C-L-E!  (Joe said his clip on tie was the perfect size, too!)  :)  Joe and I spent a few minutes in the arcade at the mall.  Can you believe that a teenager approached Joe as Joe was counting the tickets he had earned, handed Joe a huge stack of tickets and said, "Here, you can have these."  Joe looked at me as if he had just hit the lottery, "Miracles Abound, Aunt Cathy!"  :)

Countless, literally countless other miracles abound, but I must at least mention a few miracles of love like the lines of Team Mitlo One friends waiting to pay their respects, the endless trail of tears, the desperate embraces, the powerful leadership and preaching of Jay, the ever so beautiful and strong Rachel, Joe and Bella's friends supporting and distracting them, the humble and thoughtful accommodations of Hebron Church, the intimately embracing Faith Community Church, and even 60 degree sunny skies as we journeyed to the cemetery and then later for my trip (with a full tank of gas!) to return home.

 

 I am building my Ebenezer.  The photos and stories of this past week will forever be a testimony of God's faithfulness, a lasting gift from our Young Warrior....."Thus far the LORD has helped us."

"Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, "Thus far the LORD has helped us."  I Samuel 7:12

"Trey Tuesday" - November 10, 2015

Cheerleaders

Have you ever been to a sporting event and seen 1 cheerleader working the crowd?  Of course not!  Not only is it impossible to form a pyramid with only 1 cheerleader, it is pretty difficult to keep the positive momentum of the whole stadium going all by yourself.  When the other team is winning, it takes a whole crew of cheerleaders to boost the morale, support the special teams and shout out encouragement until everyone is hoarse!  And it takes 2 people (or more!) to catch the cheerleader that was twirled through the air!

This "Trey Tuesday" is for you, the Mitlo family cheerleaders:  Team Mitlo One!  :)

Thank you to each and every one of you - family, friend, neighbor, coworker, church member, and friend of a friend of a friend!  Thank you for your extraordinary love and support, cheering on Jay and Rachel and Joe and Bella through your prayers, your comforting and encouraging words, cards, favors and everything else - this past week, this past year, and every step of Trey's life!!  :)

We pray for YOU this week!

"Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you."  2 Corinthians 13:11

"Trey Tuesday" - November 3, 2015

Jay

The father of our Young Warrior.  What would his t-shirt say? 

"Care for the flock that God has entrusted to you. Watch over it willingly, not grudgingly--not for what you will get out of it, but because you are eager to serve God."  I Peter 5:2

This passage follows the heading in the Bible: Instructions to Elders.  God calls elders to oversee their people.  God has called Jay to oversee his family.  This became true the day that Jay married Rachel.  Before God, Jay promised to love and care for Rachel.  And then Joe came along.  Jay's dedication to his first born son was quickly seen.  Jay is a hands on kind of dad!  Bella's birth increased the flock and the responsibility.  Jay would now be seen through the eyes of Daddy's little girl!  The birth of Trey increased the family, the sound level (!) and the joy!  :)

Christmas Eve, 2010, Jay accepted fatherhood at an unconscionable level.  Jay's dedication to his family became a devotion.  He vowed to love and protect Rachel as she cared for Trey.  He devoted himself to caring for Joe and Bella and their physical, spiritual and emotional needs, at any cost.  Jay, the Elder Warrior, devoted himself and his family to the Lord for the battle before them.

Devotion, you know, isn't a temporary or part time job.  To devote something is serious business:"The Hebrew term (for devotion) refers to the irrevocable giving over of things or persons to the Lord."   Jay devoted himself to God...to be and do all that God called him to do...no turning back...no wimping out...no calling in a sub...

Thank you, God, for raising up Jay to be a devoted father and husband, a man relying on You as he chooses to love his family in word and in deed.  Please encourage him with Your Truths as he perseveres through these difficult days. Heal his deepest pain. Surround and protect his family as they continue to love You and serve You with devotion.

"Be devoted to one another in love."  Romans 12:10

"Trey Tuesday" - October 27, 2015

Rachel

How can six little letters sum up one extraordinary woman/mom/friend?  Rachel doesn't have a t-shirt, but if she did, what Bible verse would be used for her?

Let's take a look at: 
"In the fear of the LORD there is strong confidence, And His children will have refuge."
Proverbs 14:26

For those who know her well, you will recognize that these words exemplify Rachel:

Fear of the Lord

Strong

Confidence

Her children

Rachel is the epitome of the Mama Bear image.  You just don't mess with Mama's Baby Bears or you will experience a fierce battle.  Cancer did, but Trey won - he is cancer free in His heavenly refuge now!  :)   Rachel responded with her usual strength and confidence for the sake of her Young Warrior.  And now she marches forward again/still, with strength and confidence, day by day, memory by memory, with her tween age Bears watching.

This week, let's pray for our Mama Bear.  Let's praise the Lord that He has given Rachel a Heavenly Father to surround, support and protect her!  And let's thank the Lord for giving Rachel an earthly husband to surround, support and protect her, too!

Please pray for Rachel to continue to find strength as she clings to God and His promises in these difficult days.  Please also pray for God to continue to supply her with His comfort as she presses forward each day...one step at a time...with great faith.

“Blessed is Rachel, who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him.
She will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream.
Rachel does not fear when heat comes...and she never fails to bear fruit.”  Jeremiah 17:7.8

"Trey Tuesday" - October 20, 2015

Joe

(Joe, the oldest Mitlo child, is our focus today as we pray for Trey's family in honor of the first anniversary of Trey's passing, November 5.)

Joe Mitlo, actually named Ferocious Joe for his t-shirt by his parents, is one amazing young man....but ferocious?! :) Really?  Friendly, funny, outgoing, confident, smart, kind and gentle, yes!  But ferocious?

On the outside?  Maybe not.
On the inside?  Now you are talking!  Ferocious-ly Joe through and through!
Joe is very good at holding it together like a soldier, facing his battles head on, relying on his own strength.  But, as any of us know, our human strength fails, it leaks and has pot holes, and it's inefficient for every fight.  The warfare is bigger than Joe.

Joe's t-shirt verse reads:
"Praise be to the Lord my Rock,
who trains my hands for war,
my fingers for battle."  Psalm 144:1

Psalm 144:1 fits Joe perfectly!

Jay and Rachel provide one type of training for Joe in his Jiu Jitsu martial art. God, however, is training the inner Joe ferociously.  Watching a little brother endure cancer makes a young man strong.  Enduring the loss of that little brother is insurmountable!

So please pray for Joe to find refreshment, vulnerability and comfort in his Caring Place group.  Please also pray for Joe to allow himself to be open and honest with himself (!) and his parents about his feelings. 

"Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.  Ephesians 6:10

"Trey Tuesday" - October 13, 2015

Bella

The anniversary of Trey's passing is quickly approaching.  Let's take these next 4 weeks to focus on each member of the Mitlo family, praying specifically for each person as they experience this heart wrenching time of year.

And so today we get to focus on our extraordinary Bella!  Jay and Rachel picked a scripture for Bella's special t-shirt, "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come." Proverbs 31:25

Bella is a budding designer/engineer/biologist/cosmetologist/chemist.  With great strength and confidence she is ready and willing to accept and accomplish challenges!  She appears, on the outside, to be fearlessly strong.  Losing a baby brother, however, is a challenge the strongest man would struggle to handle.

So as November 5 draws near, please hold our precious, sensitive, strong, silly, sweet, smart Bella close in prayer. Let's exercise our faith by praying and trusting what God has promised in His Word:

"On her bed help Bella to remember You;

May she think on You through the watches of the night.

Because You are Bella's help,

May she sing in the shadow of Your wings.

May Bella cling to You;

Your right hand upholds her."  Psalm 63:6-8

"Trey Tuesday" - October 6, 2015

Final Greetings

Last words or last impressions etch an enduring impact on to our hearts and in to our minds.  I think Trey's last word to me (not that we knew that it was going to be his last word) was, "No!"  (That was a very common vocabulary word for Trey!)  :)  I think it had to do with me asking him if I could give him another kiss or hug at bedtime.  I gave him one anyway!  :)

Graduation, moving, leaving vacation, selling a long time favorite car - each of these momentous occasions holds lasting memories of the final moments.  Suppose Trey (or any of our loved ones) knew they had one final salutation to give.  What do you think they would say?  "Spend more hours at work?"  "Wash the car again?"  "Straighten the pillows on the sofa one more time?"  "Buy more clothes?"  I think not.

Let's look to Paul as he gives the Thessalonians their final greeting and consider this as our bedtime blessing tonight:  "Now may the God of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way.  The Lord be with you all."  2 Thessalonians 3:16

"Trey Tuesday" - September 29, 2015

Free Coffee

National Coffee Day today!  :)

How many of us were able to function a little better today just knowing a free cup of coffee was around the corner?  Maybe you didn't even take advantage of the offer, but still you knew it was there if you "needed" it!  :)

Do you feel the same way about your friends or family?  You don't see them that often, but you know they are near, or would come near, if you needed them?

Well, today, actually every day, is National Friends and Family Day!  You can visit, call, text, email your family and friends for free!  :)  Today and every day!

What are you waiting for? 

"Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves."  Romans 12:10

"Trey Tuesday" - September 22, 2015

Gifts

Donald Trump's comb over hairdo is an example of an icon....but let's dig a little deeper....

Trey, grandparents and the Pope.  Now there is a list of meaningful icons!

Webster offers synonyms of "icon" such as image, emblem or symbol

A dear, former neighbor just passed away after living a long, fruitful, loving life.  He was an icon in our neighborhood growing up and every time we visited in adulthood.  I won't see him anymore, but every time I drive past his house, I will still vividly and fondly "see" him/remember him working in his yard or walking on his driveway.

Some of you may get to see the Pope in person this week - even from a distance.  A lot of preparation has gone into your arrangements.  Why?  The Pope is an icon.  He represents love, leadership, and wisdom like a father; like our Heavenly Father.

Trey - just saying his name floods my heart and mind with memories and images of times loving life and playing together closely.  Trey's photo sits front and center on my computer.  Why?  So I don't forget him?  Never!  I keep his photo there to remind me of the good old days, to celebrate all that God allowed us to enjoy together!  Trey - four little letters symbolizing one large life!  :)

Icons are gifts.  Precious, priceless gifts.  Remember them.  Treasure them.

And thank God for them.

"I thank my God every time I remember you."  Philippians 1:3

"Trey Tuesday" - September 15, 2015

Lion and Tigers and Bears, oh My!

OK, not lions and tigers, but 2 black bears walked very slowly across the road in front of my car this morning!  They were so precious and so beautiful!  Yes, I know bears can wreak havoc but God allowed me to see the gentle side of them today.

In our hearts and minds we remember Trey as a sweet, innocent child...vulnerable, tender and adorable, and we choose to overlook the times that Trey's behavior/charm could wreak havoc in his family's life!

You know, God commands us to love one another.  "Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister."  I John 4:21  Everyone.  Must.  All the time.  But what actually happens?  We imagine the sweet tender side of the nice people, but for others, the havoc wreakers, we only recall the negative side.

What if we all begin to see each other through God's goggles of love?  Angry boss?  No problem - just envision him swinging on the swings like a little child!  :)  Meddling in laws?  Look for the silver lining in each one of them.  Nosy neighbors?  Just picture them as cute little puppies looking for some attention!  :)  *Disclaimer:  I have NONE of these situations in my life!  :)

So through the love and power of God, take captive all the thoughts of the lions and tigers and bears in your life and consider them as precious!  :)

"Above all, love each other deeply"  I John 4:18

"Trey Tuesday" - September 8, 2015

Always in All Ways

Pretend that it's the first thing in the morning tomorrow.  Can you imagine just walking past everyone in your life?  Ignoring your spouse, parent, child, teacher, or boss!?!  We would never consider making such a rude move!  Certain people (your boss or parent) would not tolerate this habit.  There would be consequences! Others wouldn't understand it and they would insist on your attention!  (A certain Young warrior was especially efficient in this department!) :)

God wants your attention.  He longs to be with you, for you to share your thoughts, your fears, your plans for the day with Him.  Scripture tells us to acknowledge God in all our ways.  How do you do that?  Imagine your good friend, cousin or neighbor is in the room with you.  How would you acknowledge him/her?  Say, "Hi!"  Touch base. Share your life.  Read God's Word for His reply. Try it!  Acknowledge God all throughout your day....every day!

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."  Proverbs 3:5,6

"Trey Tuesday" - September 1, 2015

Leaning

The construction of the Leaning Tower of Pisa began in August 1173.

No wonder the old girl has a little lean to her!

I began leaning early in life.  First I leaned on my parents and siblings.  Then I leaned on my friends.  Finally, I decided to lean on the only Super Structure which will never crumble, fade or age.  God is using the phrase, "Lean on me," in different areas of my life lately.  Advice from prayer partners, devotionals, songs...you hear the message loud and clear when it comes at you from so many directions.

But in a moment of sadness, anger, grief, anxiety, or fear, what does it mean to lean on the Lord?  Remember the Trust Fall from junior high?  When someone stood behind you and "promised" to catch you when you leaned back on him/her - only to drop you....by design or default?

God's not like that.  He will never ever drop you.  He can't.  He knows you and loves you way too much!

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.

The memories of Trey's battle are vivid every time I see one of the gold ribbons of awareness......I've got some more leaning to do....

“The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer;

my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge,

my shield and the horn of my salvation.

He is my stronghold, my refuge and my Savior—"  2 Samuel 22:2,3

"Trey Tuesday" - August 25, 2015

Choose Joy

Oh the blessings of an extended weekend celebrating life with the Mitlo families!  No, we didn't celebrate one special occasion, we simply gathered to celebrate every day life! :)

Trey wasn't present at these celebrations, but he most certainly was a part of them!  :)  It is so sweet that we could mention Trey's name, tell Trey stories, share a few intimate, emotional insights about life and death, shed a few tears and share a few laughs!  :)

Choosing joy over sadness doesn't come easily - or naturally.  It is a day by day, minute by minute choice.  Some days choosing joy glides right off the tip of my tongue.  Some days I couldn't/wouldn't choose joy if it was the only choice left in the vending machine!

But God is patient and He stirs up glimpses of peace and love and hope which momentarily cause joy in our lives.  Moments become minutes sometimes.  Shared moments become hours. Collective hours eventually become days and all of a sudden you may realize God has given you the gift of choosing joy!  :)

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort"  2 Corinthians 1:3

"Trey Tuesday" - August 18, 2015

Taste and See

I was eating the fillet of the watermelon yesterday (yes, you read that correctly!) and my heart smiled as I remembered Trey being the strawberry fillet connoisseur.  The fillet of fruit, I believe named by Jay, is the quintessential tip of the fruit, the juiciest, ripest, most delicious part.  Jay and Rachel would often open the refrigerator and find a box of strawberries all with the tips bit off....Trey had been enjoying the fillets again!  :)

God calls us to "Taste and see that the Lord is good."  Psalm 34:8

You don't have to start out taking a big bite of the "God" thing.

Taste it.

Take a nibble.

Go for the fillet:  "The Lord is good."  Psalm 34:8

"Trey Tuesday" - August 11, 2015

Are you ready?

"Ready for what?" you might ask.

Well, it seems that this is the time of year when many people experience Sign Up Fever.
Are you ready for Sign Up Fever?
Ready to sign up for:

Homeroom mom/dad?

Fantasy Football?

New Bible studies at church?

Work out classes?

What about your children?  There is always:

Scouts?

Lessons?

Sports?

After school activities?

The lists are literally endless!

The calendar is full with no room for error - and no room for God.

Do you ever leave a margin of time for when God needs you to do something for someone?

For a lonely friend?

A needy neighbor?

A sick child or parent?

Trey has taught us that time spent with each other is precious....very precious.

Take/make some time so you are ready when God calls you to Sign Up with Him!  :)

"Remind the people...to be ready to do whatever is good,"  Titus 3:1

"Trey Tuesday" - August 4, 2015

Home

Dear friends recently sold their home....the home where their babies were born and raised...the home where many memories were made... the home where the foundations of love, loyalty and protection were built stronger than concrete and drywall.  A piece of their hearts was left behind in that home.

Perhaps you have vacation plans this summer.  You can't wait to reach your destination. The reservations are made, the packing is done.  All that is left is the road trip and the beach!  A few days later you pack the car back up and head home.  Hours pass, sandy seats grow weary, tolerance dwindles and the car load can't wait for home where comfort and familiarity abound.

Trey's home was in Penn Hills for 6 short years.  He is now eternally home.  What a resting place He has found in heaven in the presence of our Creator, Sustainer, Comforter; our Father, God.

What is home to you?

"I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:14

"Trey Tuesday" - July 28, 2015

Today's "Trey Tuesday" is brought to you by my amazing brother/Trey's dad Jay Mitlo - http://jaymitlo.com/moving-on/

"Trey Tuesday" - July 21, 2015

He's Not Surprised...

Do you ever think that God isn't watching?  That He isn't aware of every detail of your situation?  That He just doesn't understand what you are going through?  Sometimes it is even too difficult to put your thoughts and feelings into words....how can you begin to pray about them and surrender and entrust them to the King of all creation?!?

God, your Creator, who formed you for His purpose, cares all about you - even the number of hairs on your head!  (Matthew 10:30)  He is never ever surprised by what you are enduring.  Even though it may seem like the pain in your heart is too much to bear and life seems so out of order, God indeed is in control.

Ask Jay and Rachel.
Or Joe and Bella.
Imagine Daniel in the lions' den.
Or Jesus in the garden.
Row the boat with the disciples on the stormy sea.
Or talk to Jonah in the belly of a large fish.

God is forever listening and watching and loving 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

“Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine.  When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior"  Isaiah 43:1-3

"Trey Tuesday" - July 14, 2015

Labels

No, I'm not talking about trans fats or cholesterol, sugar or fat labels.

I'm also not talking about ability, size or status.

Let's talk about labels which clearly define God's calling on our lives.

John the Baptist's looked like this:

"for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for Him,

to give His people the knowledge of salvation

through the forgiveness of their sins" Luke 1:76,77

Jesus: "came to seek and to save the lost."  Luke 19:10

And Moses:

"so that you may bring My people, the sons of Israel, out of Egypt.”  Exodus 3:10

God has a very special label/calling/job that He has prepared for each one of us!

What do you think Trey's calling/purpose/mission was/is?

What is yours......l?

"Trey Tuesday" - July 7, 2015

Don't tolerate intolerance!

Every time we turn on the news, (regardless of the platform/source we use) there always seems to be another new instance of the violation of someone's beliefs.  Our culture is either tolerating anything and everything or not tolerating anything at all!  Education, government, economics, entertainment, world affairs, religion, health care, relationships...even poor little gluten and lactose don't stand a chance!  Everyone has an intolerance to something these days.

Much more importantly though, it also seems like almost everyone has an intolerance to someone these days!  That is where we must draw the line.  We cannot tolerate the intolerance of God's people, His creation.  When Trey was diagnosed with cancer we didn't fight Trey...We fought the battle with the weapons of faith, hope, love and prayer.  When Trey finished his battle with cancer we didn't fight the funeral director...We fought (and still fight) that heart wrenching battle with the weapons of faith, hope, love and prayer.

Scripture is very clear on this one. 

Read this verse. 

Memorize it.

Use it to help you tolerate God's beloved people!

"Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God."  Romans 15:7

"Trey Tuesday" - June 30, 2015

Hey you!

Sometimes God speaks in a whisper (I Kings 19:12)

Sometimes He speaks through His Holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:21)
Sometimes God speaks through Jesus (John 10:32)

Don't you wish God very clearly spoke to us like that personally? 
He does!  God speaks directly to:  Y-O-U! Yes, You!  :)

You won't find your name written in God's direct words to you, but if you remember anything from your grammar lessons you will find His direction implied there: 

"(YOU) Come, follow me," Jesus said Matthew 4:19

"(YOU) Be transformed"  Romans 12:2

"(YOU) Keep my commandments”  John 14:15
"(YOU) Rejoice, and be exceeding glad"  Matthew 5:11

When life's circumstances leave you confused, upset, disappointed or wandering for direction, open your Bible and find God speaking directly to you!  :)

What is He saying to YOU today?

"Trey Tuesday" - June 23, 2015

Nice Try!

We try so hard at being good and doing good and looking good...yet we all fall short.

Imagine facing God with our lame attempts at being "good enough" to deserve His favor.

Would you present God with your sports car?

Your diamond ring?

Keys to your home?

Your college degree?

Your IRA?

Your week's paid vacation?

Even in the Bible, people tried to "do it all."
A rich, young ruler tried his best...HIS best...to impress Jesus with his outstanding track record of goodness.  What was Jesus' reaction?
"Jesus looked at him and loved him."  Mark 10:21

Wow!  When was the last time you gave love and compassion when someone totally missed the mark?
When was the last time your coach, parent, boss, spouse offered you that much grace and love when you tried but failed?
Just by His look, Jesus loved that young man.

You may not be called to give your first born Son...

You may not be called to give your second born son....

Yet each one of us is called to give...our all...

Jesus is waiting - with love.

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength."   Mark 12:30

"Trey Tuesday" - June 16, 2015

Google It?

Look it up!

How many times a day do you think, hear, or say those words?

And then you faithfully proceed to your electronic device and Google the topic.

Need a recipe?  Look it up!

Want to find the latest celebrity gossip?  Look it up!

Wondering about the ballgame score?  Look it up!

Need marriage advice?........(screeching sound!)....

Do NOT look it up!  FIRST - LOOK Up!

Worried about your health?  Look Up!
Seeking wisdom about dating or college?  Look Up!
Afraid you might be replaced at work?  Look Up!

As one of the doting aunts of Trey, I spent many hours "looking up" Trey's condition and treatments.  It felt good to "do" something about Trey's diagnosis.  Google, however, never ever ever replaced, "Looking Up!"  Our help and strength and guidance and comfort and wisdom and hope were (and still are!) found in believing and following God and His Word!  Google is a wonderful tool, but it is no substitute for searching the Maker of Heaven and Earth for help!  :)

"I lift up my eyes to the mountains—

where does my help come from?

My help comes from the Lord,

the Maker of heaven and earth.

He will not let your foot slip—

He who watches over you will not slumber;

indeed, He who watches over Israel

will neither slumber nor sleep.

The Lord watches over you—

the Lord is your shade at your right hand;

the sun will not harm you by day,

nor the moon by night.

The Lord will keep you from all harm—

He will watch over your life;

the Lord will watch over your coming and going

both now and forevermore."  Psalm 121

"Trey Tuesday" - June 9, 2015

Opposite Day Anyone?

Typically we read the Bible for the Truths that are written.

"God is love."  I John 4:16

Pretty straight forward, right?

Have you ever considered the opposite of that verse?

Jewelry is love.

Front row baseball tickets for Father's Day is love.

Our cluttered and busy lives muddy the clear waters of God's intended Truths.

If God tells us "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."  I Thessalonians 5:18 then that is the Truth!

The opposite is NOT the Truth:  give thanks only in some circumstances, you know, the circumstances that are safe and easy and those that go your way!

Try looking at the opposite perspective of a few verses to see God's Truths, God's point of view, more clearly!

2 Timothy 1:7 "God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and a sound mind."

If God has not given us fear, then the enemy or the world has.

God has given us power and love and a sound mind.  The latest miracle cream/tip/app most certainly hasn't!

As I sit at my computer and look at Trey's sweet smile in his school picture I thank God for His absolute 100% Truth of John 3:16,

"For God so loved the world that He gave His One and Only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."

"Trey Tuesday" - June 2, 2015

Where's My Comforter!?

Anyone a little chilly right now?

A little lonely?

Sad?

Scared?

Hurt?

Sick?

Overwhelmed?

What kind of comforter are you seeking?

Where do you find comfort in your time(s) of need?

Psalm 119 is filled with God offering us direction and comfort through His Word.

Wherever you are, whatever you are feeling, measure your situation against Psalm 119.  When life doesn't make sense and your circumstances don't measure up with your calendar, before you get mixed up turning to all the comforters the world has to offer, find comfort and hope in the Author of Life!  :)

"Remember Your Word to Your servant,for You have given me hope.
My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life."  Psalm 119:49-50

"Trey Tuesday" - May 26, 2015

Patience

Have you planted any seeds this spring?  Have you gathered the vegetables or flowers yet?  Of course not! :)  It takes many days/weeks/months of patiently nurturing the seeds, the soil, the water, and the temperature in order to successfully and properly grow healthy, fruitful plants.

Why do we get so anxious in all other areas of our lives?  Why do we not understand that we cannot have absolutely everything NOW!?!?  We can't be rich and good looking and popular and well toned and organized and...fill in the blank.....instantly and all at once!  And we most certainly cannot have all the bad and painful parts of life instantly taken away!  War, death, sickness, abuse, poverty, and neglect do not evaporate at our wish or prayer.  Even for the most devout Christian.  God still has us wait.

God's Word has some pretty rough illustrations regarding patience.  They are not always the words we want to hear when we are struggling or grieving or in pain:

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer"  Romans 12:12
"Love is patient, love is kind"  I Corinthians 13:4

Job questioned patience amidst his horrific trials, "And what is my end, that I should be patient?"  Job 6:11

"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love."  Ephesians 4:2

Wow!  What a lineup!  How is this humanly possible!?!? 

Aha!  There is the defining word:  humanly.  It is humanly IMpossible to be patient while you wait!  Patience is a fruit of God's Holy Spirit working in your life.  It is God's work - not yours.  Even if life doesn't make sense, plant the seeds of your life (relationships, health, job, money, etc.) and nurture them with healthy habits. Then rest and have patience in God's timing.  Rely on His Supernatural power!  :)

"For Thou art my patience, O Lord: my Hope, O Lord, from my youth"  Psalm 71:5

"Trey Tuesday" - May 19, 2015

My Vote

It's Primary Election Day here in the state of PA.  The governing bodies and their candidates want your opinion!  :)

Did you ever wish that God had an election day when you got to vote on how things would work out in your life?  Would you like the opportunity to finally have your say in your life?  From the weather to finances to matters of life and death and every other preference, we most certainly have our expectations of how we think our lives should unfold.  But God has a different plan.  A better plan!  The most trustworthy plan ever!  :)

A very popular Bible passage is:

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart

and lean not on your own understanding;

in all your ways submit to Him,

and He will make your paths straight."  Proverbs 3:5,6

Each phrase of those verses has powerful implications:

Trust in the Lord with ALL your heart....every nook and cranny and crack and crevice...even those people and things we hold on to the tightest.

Lean not on YOUR OWN understanding...our own understanding and perspective is so very limited and so heavily biased, favoring our comfort and convenience...now!

In ALL your ways submit to Him...there's that inclusive word again....

And He will make your paths straight....That's a promise!  :)

Proverbs 3 is a chapter about wisdom.  God's wisdom.

Seek Him.  Seek His Truths.  Seek HIS perspective.

His vote is really, Truly, all that matters!

"Blessed are those who find wisdom"  Proverbs 3:13

"Trey Tuesday" - May 12, 2015

Happy Birthday Trey! :)

Three little words conjure up soooooo many thoughts, images and emotions!

How to sum them up?
We must rely on God's Truth: 

"This is the day the LORD has made.  We will rejoice and be glad in it."  Psalm 118:24

We WILL rejoice!  We WILL be glad!  We WILL celebrate the LIFE of Trey! :)

The following excerpts are tributes from Trey's Facebook page today.
Read, rejoice, and be glad!

- I have been thinking of it as Trey’s 1st birthday. Him and Jesus. ..eating frozen birthday waffles and jamming out to the birthday song.

- We love you, Trey Trey, and are celebrating and worshiping with you and Jesus on this beautiful day, celebrating your birth!

- Happy Birthday to my biggest Hero! Today Trey would have been 7 but instead he is having his first birthday in heaven!

- Jay writes:  Today is a celebration of his life.  Please go to jaymitlo.com and give the Mitlos the gift of a comment of your favorite Trey moment!  :)  http://jaymitlo.com/happy-birthday/

‪ ‪#1234 #‎haaaapyhappyhappybirthday‬

‪#‎partyinheaven‬ ‪#‎godisstillgood‬  ‪#‎treywins‬

"Trey Tuesday" - May 5, 2015

The Royal Baby

Are some things just too good to be true?
The royal couple already had a handsome prince and now they have a beautiful princess!  What a storybook life!  The parents and the children will never be in want.  Their every need and wish will be fulfilled by a member of their staff, ready and waiting to help them.  Oh, if only we all could be a part of a royal family!

But wait!  We can!  We are! 
I Peter 2:9 declares a favorite Truth that is very rarely heard in our culture:
"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light."

Is that Truth too good to be true?  Absolutely not!

In Jesus' opinion, those who are His are Royalty!  :)

God's storehouse of riches is available to all who believe!  :)

Princess Charlotte is a very special girl.
Trey was a very special boy.  A very, very, very special boy!  :)

But guess what!?!?  YOU are a very, very, very special person, too!

Yes, YOU!!!

Are you living like you are a child of the King of Kings?!?

Is your focus on your privileges as His Royalty?

"To Him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by His blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve His God and Father—to Him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen."  Revelation 1:5,6

"Trey Tuesday" - April 28, 2015

Beautiful in its Time - Part 2

Last week we looked down at the ground at the blooming crocus.  This week we look up high at the blossoming trees.  Have you seen the sheen of red maple blossoms kissing the treetops?  From a distance you can see the tiny, slightly burgundy red clusters, and up close you can see the coating of pollen gracing your car/windshield/driveway, etc.  Not a very refreshing image.

However, God has made everything beautiful in its time...in....its....time.  Perhaps the maple tree has something better to offer us than nuisance fuzzy pollen! :)  Fast forward to a hot summer day and you and your family are seeking a spot of shade while at the ball field.  That pollen laden maple tree's leaves certainly looks beautiful now, don't they!?  Enduring the here and now for a rewarding future is worth the wait!

Trey's terrible diagnosis caused/still causes pain...a lot more pain than all the pollen everywhere for all time!  Fill in your own story here, too. Yet we need to remember that God's timing is always best.  Perhaps we have to wait a season, a year, a decade, a lifetime, or eternity to see it, but God's perfect righteousness and peace are indeed, beautiful in its time.

"No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it."  Hebrews 12:11

"Trey Tuesday" - April 21, 2015

Beautiful in Its Time

Did you rejoice at the first sight of a crocus this spring?  Seeing those tender blossoms peek out from under a cover of snow is such a beautiful sign!  However, the crocus is a funny thing.  It is beautiful only in its time.  Rarely do you see a crocus in a wedding bouquet or used as a prom corsage!  Yes indeed, it is beautiful in its time!  :)

I still wear my Team Mitlo One bracelet.  It WAS beautiful in its time, representing a group of prayer warriors and team members supporting the Mitlo family in Trey's battle with cancer.  My bracelet still IS beautiful in its time.  It reminds me that I am part of a team of friends from around the world, separated by distance and perhaps as strangers, yet united for the sake of love and prayers.  My Team Mitlo One bracelet reminds me to pray for those still in their battles.  It reminds me that in this rough world we can still work together for a common good.  And yes, Jay, my Team Mitlo One bracelet humbly and gently reminds me that everyone out there has a story.

And that, my friends, is beautiful!  :)

"I have seen the burden God has laid on the human race. 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 3:10,11

"Trey Tuesday" - April 14, 2015

The Great I Am

When God uses the Name, "I Am" to describe Himself, He is using it to encompass all that He is.  There are many Names of God, but this One summarizes them all!  "I Am" - three little letters, yet a magnitude of characteristics that words cannot fully express.

Trey.  Four little letters, yet a magnitude of characteristics that words cannot fully express.  If we would have asked Trey to describe himself, he never ever ever ever would have said that he was a cancer stricken child.  Trey never knew he was sick and he never knew he had cancer!  Praise God for His mercies!

What about you?!?  What words would YOU use to describe yourself?  What labels do you use to identify yourself?  What terms do you allow others to use to symbolize you?

What does God say about you?
"See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!"  I John 3:1

"Trey Tuesday" - April 7, 2015

Peace Be With You

While the disciples were still trying to believe what had happened to Jesus' risen body, Jesus appeared to them and said, “Peace be with you.”  John 20:21   Peace?!?  I am certain the disciples were still coming to grips with Jesus' death and were now realizing the fulfillment of the prophecy of His resurrection!  They must have been in shock with such huge news!  Easter Sunday is a joyous, peace-filled occasion for us today because God in His Word has shown us how the story ends!  :)

Shocking news of many varieties comes to our family and friends daily.  Jesus doesn't take the news away, and He is not shocked, but He is ready and waiting in the news.  What is His response?  "Peace be with you."  Peace isn't a natural response at such shocking times, but remember, Jesus is Supernatural!  :)  Only with Jesus can we have His Supernatural Peace. 

We were all shocked with the news of Trey's death....5 months ago!  Jesus was not shocked.  He was/is ready and waiting in the news.  What is His response?
"Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."  John 14:27 

“My peace I give you"

"Trey Tuesday" - March 31, 2015

Holy Week/Busy Week

The days before Easter are typically packed with feverish activity preparing our families and homes for our Easter celebrations!  There are baskets to fill, eggs to dye, and bonnets to buy!  :)

Take a peek into the life of Jesus during Holy Week:  He performed miracles, bestowed blessings and curses, taught, prayed, counseled, washed feet, and went to trial.  He must have been physically and emotionally exhausted long before his gruesome crucifixion!   Listen closely to how Jesus handles the stress:

"Haven't you ever read the Scriptures? For they say, 'You have taught children and infants to give you praise.'"  Matthew 21:16 

 Four verses before this, Jesus had just turned over the temple tables due to the temple activity in the name of profit.  Jesus stops it all to remind us that we are to praise God.....like children!  What an antidote for greed!  God doesn't need our grand Pinterest-style Easter decorations!  He wants our child-like faith to reach out and worship Him!  :) 

 

 A few verses later, Jesus simplifies it again for us:

"If you believe"  Matthew 21:22 

Trey's awesome example of pure child-like faith is an inspiration to us every day.  Remember the purely innocent photos and videos of Trey living out loud, praising, loving and believing.  This Easter week can the same be said of you?

"Trey Tuesday" - March 24, 2015

Jelly Beans, Peeps and Cadbury Eggs

Sweet treats!  :)

Are they a childhood memory of your past?

A guilty pleasure of your present?

Or a post-Lenten indulgence of your future?

The word "treat" implies it is not a daily staple.  A treat is something special enjoyed on a designated occasion, a reward or a change from the ordinary.

Easter Week is quickly approaching!  It is the best kind of sweet treat ever!

Spend some time in the upcoming days savoring the work of Jesus:

This Sunday is Palm Sunday - Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey past the people waving palm branches while shouting, "Hosanna!"  ("Save us!")  Matthew 21:1-11

Holy Thursday - Jesus' Last Supper with His disciples - The very First Communion Luke 22:7-38

Good Friday - Jesus' greatest act of love, sacrificed on the cross, making peace between God and all mankind once and for all - literally Mark 15:21-41

Easter Sunday - Hallelujah!  Jesus is Risen - just as He said!  :)  Matthew 28:1-10

One of Trey's favorite treats (he had many!) was a bag of fruit gummies from Grandma's house.  He counted on his treat, he relied on getting his treat and he savored his treat!  May the message of Easter be a gift for you to count on, rely on and savor - not just as a once a year treat, but for every day of your life!  :)

"Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him."  Psalm 34:8

"Trey Tuesday" - March 17, 2015

Luck of the Irish

Whether we wear green this St. Patrick's Day by heritage or just for fun, we all enjoy a holiday to eat special food, dance a jig and kiss a Blarney stone! (?)  Someone may even wish you the "Luck of the Irish."  Leprechauns revealing pots of gold sound pretty good to me.  Don't you wish we could have the Luck of the Irish every day?

Good News!  You can have something even better!

"The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you;
in His love He will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing."  Zephaniah 3:17 

God is with you.  Jesus saves you.  God takes delight in you.  God will no longer rebuke you.  God will rejoice over you with singing.There's a 100% chance God's Word is true! 

That's better than luck any day!  :)

So go ahead - dance a jig!  (you could even do Trey's butter dance!)  <3

Whatever it looks like, celebrate God's delight in you everyday!  :) 

"The LORD your God is with you...He will take great delight in you...He will rejoice over you with singing."  Zephaniah 3:17

"Trey Tuesday" - March 10, 2015

This very precious and oh so timely "Trey Tuesday" brought to you by Jay Mitlo!  :)

Joe's Pot Hole Repair Inc.
http://jaymitlo.com/joes-pot-hole-repair-inc/

"Trey Tuesday" - March 3, 2015

Celebrate!

Celebrate more snow and ice?

Or Dr. Seuss?

Or white and gold and black and blue?

Or tax season?

Or March Madness?

Celebrate...really!?!?!  Sure!  We can celebrate all those wonderful happenings!

But what about more snow and ice?

And world conflicts, debt, disease, grief and injustice?
And other times when we don't feel like celebrating?
Life is short....Celebrate anyway!  :)

We need to celebrate in spite of the troubles we face!
"In this world you will have trouble" we are reminded in John 16.

Yes, we will have trouble.  That is a given.

But....back up that verse...it begins with:
"I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace."

Peace!  God doesn't intend for you to suffer and struggle on your own!
With Him, we can experience His peace!
And then that verse ends with:
"But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Regardless of the trouble, God ultimately wins!

God's Peace and Victory certainly are worthy of celebrating every day!

"Everyone will celebrate Your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of Your righteousness."  Psalm 145:7

"Trey Tuesday" - February 24, 2015

Jennifer Hudson vs. Frozen

Of all the breathtaking music performed at the Oscars on Sunday night, it wasn't Lady Gaga's timeless rendition of The Sound of Music that brought me to tears.  And I did not join the audience weeping at the Academy award winning, "Glory." No, it was Jennifer Hudson's heart wrenching song that opened the floodgates....

"I Can't Let Go" she sang.  "I Can't Let Go"
Trey.  I can't let go.  I can't let go of him.
And at that very moment I remembered a sweet little voice singing at the top of his lungs,  "Let It Go!"  "Let It Go!"

The tears turned to a smile.
Innocently and joyfully singing and trusting, never ever knowing anything about the cancer growing inside him, Trey would sing out loud, "Let It Go...."

It took my breath away! 
Do I have such trust in what I do not know?  What I do not see?  What I do not understand?
Once again our Young Warrior teaches me a lesson!  :)

Yes, "I Can't Let Go" of trusting God's promises!
And yes, I must entrust my life, my agenda, my past, my present and my future..."Let It Go"...and leave it with our Lord and Savior!  :)
"Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."  Hebrews 12:1-3

"Trey Tuesday" - February 17, 2015

Footprints in the Snow

We can't get our toes to the beach yet to find Footprints in the Sand, but God has provided a beautiful illustration right outside my kitchen window this week....

Footprints in the Snow.

We have a bird feeder visited by many types of birds.  Each one of them, from the large pileated woodpecker to the teeny tiny house wren, nibbles away at the seed in the feeder, swooping in and away with their treasures.  Sometimes seed bits drop and we have a different sampling of birds feasting from the ground.

When all is said and done, the footprints in the snow are amazing!  These little birds, weighing ounces (or portions of one ounce!), collectively manage to flatten snow mounds to get their treats with their continual and persistent activity!  Despite the cold and the wind, the birds make progress.

How are you doing this season?  Making progress despite the harsh conditions of your life?  Are you using your little footprint to work together to make a big difference in someone else's life?

Trey's smile, laughter and charm certainly left little footprints in each of our lives.

Let's do the same wherever we are!  :)

"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

Matthew 5:16

"Trey Tuesday" - February 10, 2015

True Grit

A dear friend ministers to the homeless on the streets of New York City.  The stories of their strength and perseverance and desperate faith knock the breath right out of me!  They draw me to my knees in worship and adoration of the One True God who sustains these mighty soldiers time and time again!  He knows!  :)

Have you ever been that desperate?  Have you ever totally released a loved one (or yourself or your situation) 100% in to the arms of Jesus?  100%?!?  Perhaps you have a prayer request you are actually afraid to pray:  "Lord, do whatever it takes to...."  "God, I wholeheartedly give you my..."  "Jesus, I don't know how to fix this situation.  Please use Your power and will to...."  Have you ever dared to finish those sentences, afraid of how God may choose to accomplish them?

Or do these songs make you squirm?

"I Surrender All"

"Have Thine Own Way, Lord"

Or let's even go Disney with "Let it Go"

God gave us Trey as a trophy in our faith walk....even though it hurts.

God IS Faithful.
God IS Truth.

God IS Trustworthy.

God knows best....every single time.

What song symbolizes your faith today?

"Jesus replied, "You of little faith, why are you so afraid?"  Matthew 8:26
"if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."  Matthew 17:20

"Trey Tuesday" - February 3, 2015

Choices

To vaccinate or not to vaccinate?

Traditional hymns or contemporary praises?

Mayonnaise or Miracle Whip?

Paper or plastic?

Our lives are filled with choices.

Some of our choices are critically important.

Others are matters of preference or opinion.

Regardless of the choices we make, we don't have a choice as to how we are to behave and react.  

"If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. " I Corinthians 13:1

We will always have circumstances and decisions to make.  More importantly, we will always have the BIG choice to make of HOW we are going to answer.

"speak the truth in love" Ephesians 4:15

Each precious life is so very fragile.

Put the people before and above the issue.

Let's celebrate Valentine's Day a little early this year...

Choose to love.

"Love never fails." I Corinthians 13:8

"Trey Tuesday" - January 27, 2015

I Don't Even Know You!

Take a quick scroll through a list of your friend's friends.  How many do you know?

Or take a look around your classroom, office, bus, neighborhood, yoga class, basketball team, favorite restaurant, etc. - do you know everyone?  Probably not.  Yet you share a common bond, a similar goal, a likemindedness of some sort.

TEAM MITLO ONE and all those who have prayed for Trey and the Mitlos:  Praise be to God there are so many of you, I personally have not met even 10% of you!  Yet we most definitely share a common bond...a love affair over a charming 6 year old!  :)  Relationships formed through intimate connection, like praying for and supporting the Mitlos, create tight bonds.  And so TEAM MITLO ONE continues on, even though our Young Warrior is no longer the center of our focus.

I read the following quote on a Facebook post last week.  It was the conclusion of another prayer group for another cancer warrior who is now dancing with Jesus and Trey:
Isn’t that how the Body of Christ works? The heart and the kidney have never seen each other, never met… yet they need each other. And they work together in the body.

Oh, how I thank God for each and every one of you - family, friends and strangers!  Yes, we need each other!  We will continue to work together!

"Holy Father, protect them by the power of Your Name,...so that they may be one as We are one."  John 17:11

"We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other."  Romans 12:5

"Trey Tuesday" - January 20, 2015

This Means Y-O-U!

Clubs, groups, associations, boards, organizations, fraternities, sororities, memberships, leagues, sections, etc. - You name it, there is always some kind of group to join! 

Relationships are a building block of groups.
You identify with those who share a common bond through these groups.

I've heard it said, "You become who you hang out with."

Where do you "belong?"

Who do you listen to?
Where do you spend your time, energy and resources?

"All the believers were one in heart and mind."  Acts 4:32

TEAM Mitlo ONE

Because of Trey Mitlo, God has joined us together as ONE TEAM.  Our Young Warrior's journey has bridged race, creed, color, economic status, age, and geography!  Through the vulnerability and honesty of Jay and Rachel, this TEAM tops over 1,400 friends and family, bonding through life's deepest valleys and highest mountaintops.

Praise be to God that Trey's legacy continues through this group's endless love and support of Jay and Rachel and Joe and Bella!

And praise be to God that Trey's legacy continues through the many amazing stories that friends have shared of God's goodness and faithfulness!

Let's continue to give God glory!

Let's continue to be ONE!

“Jesus prayed, 'I pray also for those who will believe in Me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You."  John 17:20-21

"Trey Tuesday" - January 13, 2015

Diet and Exercise

New diet and exercise regimes are coming out every day, especially in light of New Year Resolutions.  How is your new eating plan going?  Have you been to the gym since the first week of January?  :)

Calories, fat, fiber, protein, squats, crunches, sprints and lunges....concepts constantly on our minds.

What do you think Trey is doing right now?  Sipping smoothies or nibbling on tofu?  :)

Scripture paints a very different picture.  Think of all the many, many references to life in heaven:

"a wedding feast"  Matthew 22:2
"giving you rain from heaven and fruitful seasons"  Acts 14:17
" the feast in the Kingdom of Heaven"  Matthew 8:11
"May God give you heaven's dew and earth's richness-- an abundance of grain and new wine."  Genesis 27:28

It's the very best of the best!
food without calories!
peace without sadness!

fun without guilt!

joy without fear!

This is our prayer for Team Mitlo One each day of each year!  :)

"On this mountain the LORD Almighty will prepare a feast of rich food for all peoples, a banquet of aged wine-- the best of meats and the finest of wines."  Isaiah 25:6

"Trey Tuesday" - January 6, 2015

The Not So Happy New Year....

Just being honest here.

On New Year's Eve one of Trey's cousins brought up a very good point: "I don't want it to be 2015, because then that will mean that Trey died last year."  I could relate.  The day that Trey passed away I was up well past midnight.  At 12 o'somethingorother I got angry.  I realized that Trey had died yesterday...already a "day" had passed since we lost him.  And now, once again, we glide right into a new year, ignoring the statistics and significance of 11-5-2014. Trey's cousin's heart has it right.

You see, some of the unsung heroes in the life of Trey, Trey's cousins, have only begun to scratch the surface of grieving the loss of Trey.  They loved Trey....I mean they LOVED Trey - up close and personal!!!  What a joy to watch them (as many of the 12 that were available), reunite at each gathering...hugging, laughing, playing....The Mitlo cousins are always up for a get together - birthdays, holidays, school days, no school days, summer, winter, etc!  And with Trey in the mix there was always the chance of a zealous name calling loud and clear across the room:  MICHAEL! NATALIE! HUNTER! LYDIA! MIA! TYLER! JOEY! MATTHEW!  Maggie, sweet Maggie, always received a gentle pretend phone call on an ipad app!  :)

And so, ready or not, it IS a new year.
Trey is healed - but the cousins need healing.

Will you please pray for Trey's cousins this week?
And the cousins' cousins - Joe and Bella - too!  :)

"Heal me, LORD, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, for You are the one I praise."  Jeremiah 17:4

"I will bring to it health and healing, and I will heal them; and I will reveal to them an abundance of peace and truth."  Jeremiah 33:6