They Call Me Faith

I'm So Excited!

2011-07-05T12:38:00.000-07:00

Why am I so excited? Well where do I begin? Yesterday was the 4th of July and I fell down the stairs. I hurt my left knee, which has been torn before and so I am limping now. That's not exciting. Even though I am in pain I am packing and looking forward to going to Mexico on a 2 week mission trip. I know that God has been preparing Dr. Sandrie S. Smith and I for many months.

I have to admit that the feelings have been up and down lately, but that's just it. We don't go by feelings. Thank you Lord for allowing me to go to Mexico. I pray that your will be done here on earth as it is in heaven.

Check out my new e-book!

2011-05-25T17:15:00.000-07:00

Check out my New Releases!

2011-05-25T17:14:00.000-07:00

2011-04-07T15:12:00.000-07:00

The agreed supreme walks before the pretended governor.

Staying Focused Is Hard to Do

2011-04-04T15:35:00.000-07:00

Well today was a good day. Can't complain, however, I find myself thinking of so many things. Maybe it could be that many people around me lately seem to be very ill or have just passed away.

Don't misunderstand me I do not fear death. What disturbs me is that there are so many times I take things for granted. Maybe you can say that it's the selfish side of me that says I would like to spend time by myself or spend time doing other things that I think are important, but the truth is it may be a distraction. Do you know distractions can be good things, however, anything that takes you off the final goal is a distraction.

Today I won't complain, but I am going to try to stay focused.

Interceding for Friend to be Healed from Cancer

2011-03-25T08:46:00.000-07:00

One of the hardest things to do is believe that God can still heal our diseases. Even when it seems impossible and that there is no hope ~ God says that He has the last word and that our job is to pray and stand in the gap. Trusting that God has the best answer.

Psalms 91:1-16 -
“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of Jehovah, He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in whom I trust.
For he will deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, And from the deadly pestilence.

He will cover thee with his pinions, And under his wings shalt thou take refuge: His truth is a shield and a buckler.

Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night, Nor for the arrow that flieth by day;

For the pestilence that walketh in darkness, Nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.

A thousand shall fall at thy side, And ten thousand at thy right hand; But it shall not come nigh thee.

Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold, And see the reward of the wicked.

For thou, O Jehovah, art my refuge! Thou hast made the Most High thy habitation;

There shall no evil befall thee, Neither shall any plague come nigh thy tent.

For he will give his angels charge over thee, To keep thee in all thy ways.

They shall bear thee up in their hands, Lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.

Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: The young lion and the serpent shalt thou trample under foot.

Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.

He shall call upon me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble: I will deliver him, and honor him.

With long life will I satisfy him, And show him my salvation.”

Answered Prayer

2011-03-16T13:43:00.000-07:00

Scripture Of The Day: "Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed." - John 20:29 (KJV)

Life can be filled with disappointments. These disappointments can be of cause stumbling blocks to our faith. Many times we feel that God has let us down and that He has forgotten us. Moreover, at times what we have asked for never comes about or our answer is not what we expected.

God's infinite wisdom mankind would never comprehend. That is why when Christ died Thomas was so disappointed, but that disappointment led to the greatest gift to mankind.

It's been a While

2011-03-05T08:04:00.000-08:00

Lately I have been so tired and not motivated to type words or even write something meaningful. Why? I guess you can say sometimes you just don't have the words or you think everything you do is useless.

I went to visit a friend yesterday at the hospital. My friend is fighting for her life. Cancer seems to have a temporary hold on her. I personally have had so many family members die of this disease. I know how cruel it can be and how useless one feels. All these memories rose up at the surface yesterday. Do I believe that God can heal? Yes. Do I believe that nothing is impossible with God? Yes. Do I believe that sometimes God is silent and His answer is " I See You Soon". The answer is definitely a YES.

Reflections on Psalm 4:4-5

2010-12-10T09:22:00.000-08:00

" Tremble and do not sin; when you are in your beds,
search your hearts and be silent.
Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord."

As a child of God do not fall into tempation, but avoid it at all cost.
Do not plot evil in your mind or entertain sinful thoughts. Search your heart, mind, and soul and listen. Offer your heart to the Lord, your absolute best, especially those things you have a hard time giving up. Be righteous, because the Lord is righteous. Trust the Lord for He alone is worthy.

Reflections on Psalm 1

2010-11-18T14:04:00.000-08:00

BOOK I
Psalms 1–41

1 Blessed is the one
who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
or sit in the company of mockers,
2 but whose delight is in the law of the LORD,
and who meditates on his law day and night.
3 That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither—
whatever they do prospers.
4 Not so the wicked!
They are like chaff
that the wind blows away.
5 Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous.
6 For the LORD watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.

Thank you Lord that you bless the righteous
and that you watch over us. All we have to do Lord is stay away
from those things that are not pleasing to you and meditate on your
Word. We must rejoice in You.
I know Lord that when I focus on You I am able to stand. Nothing or no one
can move me. I am stable and will not break.

God Answers Prayers

2010-09-08T17:52:00.001-07:00

There are many prayer requests that may go unanswered and one may begin to think that we have asked amiss, but the truth is God delays some of our requests, because He wants the best for us. There are times when the answer is plain NO, because it will cause us harm. We need to just wait and be patient. But at the same time remind the Lord that you are waiting His absolute best for our life.

He knows exactly what I need

2010-09-05T19:07:00.000-07:00

There are times in my life when I mess up badly and feel so guilty. I go to the Father for forgiveness and He embraces me with His love. Jesus is so good. He is the lifter of my head. When I am down and feeling down ~ He knows exactly what I need for the moment, for that time and place. My Father does not wait until I cannot no more. He steps in on His perfect timing.

Thank you Lord that your ways are best.

Faith Like Potatoes

2010-08-22T19:51:00.000-07:00

Just finished seeing the movie "Faith Like Potatoes". I have to say with a title like that you would think the movie would be slow and well kind of wishy washy, but the truth is this documentary really makes you believe that all things are possible. The Lord really ignited my faith once again. Not that I didn't have faith, but there are those days when we doubt God's promises. I recommend this film to anyone that wants a quick reminder why God is good and His promises are yes and amen.

Just Another Day

2010-05-28T12:25:00.000-07:00

No point in complaining when the sun don't shine my way.
It's easy to get caught up in the cycle of complaining.
I guess Lord I have to thank you for the cloudy days as well,
because when the sun begins to shine I appreciate it even more.

Thank you Lord for another beautiful day. Thank you for the gift of life.
Thank you for watching over my family, friends, and for loving me unconditionally.

Amen.

My Prayer Today

2010-05-23T08:58:00.000-07:00

Lord I thank You for another day. Thank you that although I don't have the words to express how grateful I am You hear my most inner deepsest words. Father my prayer today is that You continue to draw me near. I ask for wisdom as measureless as the sand of the seashore. I pray that You will help me use my creativity to praise You and bring You honor and glory. Lord help me to help those see that You are real and that You are worthy of all things.

Love,
Tanya

Where Have You Been?

2010-04-24T11:39:00.001-07:00

Well just came back from Cairo, Egypt and Monterrey, Mexico. I have to say that my life was renewed and restore. It's funny how we can continue walking in the same old things and think it's okay. I am so glad that my Father in heaven remembered me and met me in a foreign land and brought me out of Egypt to remind me that the Heaven's are opened and are available to me.

Faith

2009-12-30T08:14:00.000-08:00

Faith comes by hearing the Word of God, but I also believe that it comes from experiencing the mercy and grace of the Lord in those days when we lack faith.

Jesus the greatest teacher of all said the following: "If you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,' and it will obey you.

Now you know that a mulberry tree is the most difficult tree to uproot. It's roots are knotted and spread out everywhere and once rooted it takes ownership of it's land.

But here Jesus tells us that our faith - a little faith - can uproot this mulberry tree.

I'm pretty sure we have to be confident in that little seed of faith to do some difference.

Can you imagine if we had giant seed faith what can we do for Christ here on earth?

Day 13 - I'm Still Waiting

2009-12-28T10:48:00.000-08:00

Well I woke up today yes with pain, but this time the pain was less. Could it be that I am getting use to the pain or am I believing without a doubt that I am healed.

Today I was reading Mark Chapter 2 and focused in on one of the miracles the Lord performed that day and it was the one where the Paralytic was healed. What struck me the most was that the Lord healed him, because of the 4 men. The 4 men were determined to get this paralytic healed even if it meant tearing the roof off.

When Jesus saw this he forgave the paralytic and healed him. There it is. Our level of faith determines the outcome. God sees our level of faith and gives us accordingly. Wow. I needed to see that and remind myself that I am healed. My level of faith produces the outcome.

Day 12 and Still in Pain

2009-12-27T16:01:00.000-08:00

Went to the doctors and had several tests taken, but still waiting on results. I am still in pain, and disappointed that it has not gone away. I am frustrasted and angry. The question that I pose once again is how come life is so difficult? Sure I know what the bible says and yes I have faith and I believe, but when is enough ~ enough.

I am lying here believing that my body will be completely healed. Why? I was studying Mark Chapter 1 and showed how Jesus healed the people and when He did He healed them completely. That is the God I serve. I serve a God that heals completely and so while I wait for results and complete recovery I ask the Lord for peace.

Sickness Is it Really A State of Mind?

2009-12-18T14:44:00.000-08:00

Lately my health has not been cooperating with me. I have to take several days of work off and also ended up in the ER. At the ER I wondered what if they found something really horrible how would I react. I must admit that I prayed and was trusting that Jesus would see me through it, but then I would waver back and forth.

Kept telling myself that Sickness can be overcome with your mind and the Word of God. I know this to be truth, but lately even my thoughts are cloudy.

I really don't know my diagnosis as of yet, but sure glad that I was able to go to the ER and that they discharged me and I was able to make an appointment quickly. For those people who have an illness and no health benefits it is so difficult. I pray that this country would one day realize all the damage we cause when we make this impossible to achieve.

While You Were Sleeping

2009-12-12T11:02:00.000-08:00

Was viewing a video clip on youtube with Casting Crowns " While You Were Sleeping" and it really moved me. Jesus the greatest gift of all and the reason why we must keep Christmas alive. Sure we forget and get caught up in the hustle and flow of the commercialize version of Christmas. I'm guilty. But this year it's so different.

I am taking the time to examine my heart. I am taking the time to wake up, before it's too late and I miss out on many blessings.

While You Were Sleeping made me realize that God is waiting for me to wake up so that I do not miss out!

What an awesome Father. He just loves to give and give.

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Why Should I Be Thankful?

2009-11-27T07:15:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, we celebrated Thanksgiving and it was a little weird. This year I did all the cooking while my husband played in the park all day long and my son closed himself in a room playing video games.

Here I am trying to reflect on why I should be thankful?

Then as I am praying and journaling my thoughts, it hit me. I am alive. Hey, you might think that it's best being dead sometimes, but the notion of spending another day with my family was a blessing. Let me see things through God's eyes. What am I really thankful for?

1. I am thankful that I have a husband that truly loves me and my son.
2. I am thankful that in spite of all the struggles we face ~ God gives us respite.
3. I am thankful that I can see, speak, walk, and touch.
4. I am thankful that my son in spite of his disabilities can also see, speak, walk and touch even if it's differently.
5. I am thankful that I have a job. Yes, it's a blessing even though it's a difficult one.
6. I am thankful that Jesus loves me in spite of my flaws.
7. I am thankful for my supportive family and friends.
8. I am thankful for my apartment ~ even though I want a house of my own.
9. I am thankful for my car who has no handles, is 13 years old and looks it.
10. I am thankful for the internet which has made communicating with people all over the world possible.

Okay, I can go on and on.

Why Should I be thankful?
I am alive to witness the goodness of God, even though at times distractions may come my way.

A Fresh New Breeze

2009-11-25T12:51:00.000-08:00

Today the question that keeps popping up in my head is when will I be able to catch my breath. Lately the trials in my life seem to have no end. How much can a person take before there's no more air. Seems like I am gasping, choking, and there is no hope left.

My son's violent outbursts and mental breakdowns appear to be getting worse. School has been calling both my husband and I in the middle of our jobs. Both of us walking on eggshells at work and at home.

One wrong move or one wrong saying can trigger something from a horror movie. Had to ply my hand out of my son's jaw ~ still sore from the bite. I can deal with the physical pain ~ you see that will heal. Can I learn how to breathe again?

It keeps getting worse. Again the school called and again we had to rush to pick him up. Only to find out this time it was just a verbal threat. Can this be it?

All I know is this I am praying and I am looking to the one who is my source of strength to carry me through this. I am waiting for a Fresh new breeze to come my way and this time one full of mercy and grace.

Can we outgrow habits?

2009-10-27T15:45:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been challenged with many annoying habits that my son has adapted. Many of his habits are unsanitary and too many of them are absolutely infantile. I wonder sometimes if he will ever outgrow these awful habits or if he understands that we just don't do these things?

Then I think about our heavenly Father and wonder often if He too thinks the same. When will we grow out of these awful inhumane habits?

It's so easy to lose focus!

2009-08-10T15:44:00.000-07:00

How many times have we tried to stay on the right path and then when an obstacle gets in our way we try to hop, skip, jump, roll, climb over it without waiting patiently for God to make a way?

We want to move forward and we want things to go smoothly for us. You know finances, relationships, health, and all the good things we want for our lives. Not saying that it’s bad to have and want those things! I want them and I need them as well, but what I am saying is that when these things don’t come easy or don’t come our way will we be willing to stay focused?

Will we want to hold onto to that job that pays us minimal wage? Do we want to hold onto those relationships that either make us go crazy in a good way or bad way? Do we do all we can in our own strength, and then what we can’t we leave it to chance?

I will choose to listen and wait on God. I will do all that I can to stay healthy, build relationships and make good choices that will not disappoint me or distract me from obtaining the full – the best life right now!

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”KJV Hebrews 12:1-2

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When Doors Don't Open!

2009-08-04T11:25:00.001-07:00

Trying to get my son into a program that would supply Academics as well as helping him with his social skills has been a long and trying journey for the Merced family. It has been years of going back and forth. Let me explain. When my son was younger he was able to get all the right services and was provided with the best education in NYC, however, once he past the age of elementary school things took a change for the worst.

Since my husband and I both work we are put in the middle class income bracket. This may sound good, but in fact hurts our son's chances in many ways. The first is that he does not qualify for many government programs, because they base it on parents income. He will qualify for the government programs when he turns 18. He must wait 2 more years.

Next, the most difficult. Our work schedules do not allow us to go to many of the meetings and places needed to fight for placement. We have had to take many days off with warnings from both jobs. Next, we have had no luck in referrals or with the advocates supplied to us. Many have told us that our son was lost in the cracks ~ blaming his parents for ignorance of the resources that are out there. I have to tell you that this is the most hurtful part, because we have been our son's advocates for so many years.

Many have called us passive. We don't threaten enough or yell enough, etc. We have prayed, we have fasted, we have listened, we have taken action, but still the doors have not opened. We even decided to put my son in private school. Yes, the financial burden would be difficult, but so worth it. We were told once again that we would have to go to the district and have them refer my son. Oh, My God~ we are just going in circles. What is going on?

We could go to a lawyer and try to fight the board of education, but this is where it gets so sticky. Where would all the money come from? It is very expensive and the Board of Education is known for dragging its heals. Next, I work for the Board of Education. This creates conflict of interest.

Well I could write and lie and say I am not frustrated. I could also write and say that I understand full well why this is happening. I would be the biggest liar.

What I could say is this ~ " I know that my Daddy in heaven has everything in control. When the doors are closed it is for a reason." I may not understand the reason, but what I do know without a doubt is that many of the doors that have been closed in my life have helped me to enter the right ones.

When the doors don't open I will wait and see what blessings are in store.

"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint" (Isa. 40:31)

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Click here to take a look at my new book " They Call Me Faith"

Also available in b/w and Ebook: Lulu.com

=====================================

Jonathan the Elephant is a story created by a teenager who has Aspergers Syndrome and an eight year old boy who believe that through friendship, prayer, and forgiveness anyone can receive healing.

Click here Jonathan the Elephant to purchase a copy. Also available in Ebook format.

A Reminder of His Faithfulness

2009-08-02T16:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my husband and I were discussing my sons future. The conversation did not go as planned and we found each other in disagreement. You see my son is at a school where we both feel is not appropriate for my sons unique needs, but due to the fact that he has had many violent episodes in the school he hurt his chances of getting into a more challenging program with kids who have Aspergers' Syndrome.

My husband was frustrated, because he thought that I had given up. I was trying to explain to him the process of the Board of Education, because after all I do work for them. He did not want to hear it. The truth is the Lord has not opened the doors for a reason. It does not mean that I don't stop trying, but what it does mean is that I have to try a different approach and look for other methods that will help my son.

Today I was updating my personal website so that I can minister to those who are in similar situations and also promote my books. I also wanted to fix my son's book icon on the website as well. I went to the site that is selling his book online and noticed that his book is starting to sell. Funny thing is that yesterday my son was confessing that his book was going to be number one and that he was selling more books than I.

One of the buyers of the book left an awesome comment and gave the book six stars. WOW! Today was another difficult day for my son, because it is storming out in NYC again. For those of you who do not know my son is extremely fearful of storms. Well I read comment aloud to him and made sure my husband read it and saw the sales as well.

God was speaking to us louder than words. He was reminding us that although this world's system may not have a place for him or know how to deal with him. My son was going to be a productive citizen. More than that. He was going to be a powerhouse for Jesus and God was going to use him just the way he is.

Jonathan the Elephant is a story created by my son Andrew who has Aspergers' Syndrome along with his eight year old cousin who illustrated the pictures. Andrew and Ethan although limited in many ways believed that through friendship, prayer, and forgiveness anyone can receive healing.

Jonathan the Elephant can be purchase at Lulu.com, it is also available in Ebook.

Can You Hear Me? By Tanya Merced

2009-08-01T12:06:00.000-07:00

Restless and Anxious knock on my door.

Can’t wait for the opportunity to distract me and reject

the promises that were given from my Lord.

They call out my name and promise me things that sound really great, and yet I

hesitate.

Learned from the past what a big mistake it was to let them in.

Restless and Anxious had become a permanent resident in my home.

Can You Hear Me?

I cry out to the One who promised to be there no matter what.

SILENCE…SILENCE…SILENCE

Restless and Anxious continue to knock, but this time I noticed

that the noises are quite comforting.

I am getting closer and closer to letting them in.

Can You Hear Me?

I reach for the door and I am about to invite Restless and Anxious once more.

A familiar voice calls out my name and says Here I Am.

I have always been here by your side, I am the one who has given you the strength,

the comfort to withstand those uninvited guests.

But like I have told you and will remind you once again.

I am your deliverer, your refuge, your helper in time of need.

Psalm 18:6 (NIV)In my distress I called to the LORD; I cried to my God for help. From his temple he heard my voice; my cry came before him, into his ears.

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The Golden Opportunity

2009-07-31T16:36:00.000-07:00

Genesis 25:19-26

According to verse 22, how did Rebekah handle her worries about her pregnancy? Rebekah worried, but instead of asking her doctor, friends, companions or the other women around her she went directly to the source ~ God in prayer and asked Him what was happening!

What do you learn in the following verses about dealing with your own needs and concerns: Deuteronomy 4:29-30; I am going to go through many disappointments and trials and struggles that I cannot control, but I don’t have to go through it alone. My God will sustain me as long as I seek Him and stay in commune with Him. He dwells in me and I dwell in Him.

Psalm 55:22; From reading this scripture I understand that God wants me to tell Him my cares, my burdens, my wants, needs, etc. Yes, He knows this already, but still He wants me to share my everything with Him ~ The reason God doesn’t want me to hold it inside of me and create anxiousness, stress, sickness, disease and all kinds of distractions when we focus on our circumstances and not on Him. I believe that when we cast our burdens unto Him it is no longer mine to carry ~ but my Lord Jesus who washes every circumstance away with His blood.

A Brand New Day

2009-07-30T09:59:00.000-07:00

The sun is shining here in NYC! My son awoke early and you guess it looked outside of his window. He smiled and made himself breakfast. He is happy and once again doing his regular routine.
It's amazing how he already put what transpired yesterday behind him. It never even crossed his mind that he could have hurt himself or his mother. I guess his mind doesn't register in that way?
I am reminded today of the scripture Psalm 30:5 (NIV)

5 For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.
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A Brand New Day

Yesterday created many painful moments
too many to keep count. Thought that I could
control its power and hold over me, but I found my strength
was powerless and weak.
Today the sun is shining brighter than ever. It's warmth and it's
illumination brings comfort to my flesh. Reassuarance and favor
are weaving itself inside of me.
Rejoicing and praising for the joy that has come forth through my Lord this day.
A brand new day brings many joyful moments too many to keep count. Thought I could
control its power and hold over me, but I found that I find refuge and safety in its arms.
By Tanya Merced
================
Decided to take a close friend’s advice and offer my new book They call me Faith in a b/w version and Ebook. Please note that all proceeds for the purchase of my book will beused solely for fundraising and for missions.

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Please note that I am still believing that many will purchase the photography book at blurb.com **http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/727305 but I believe by offering more options it will generate sales. Thank you for your encouragement and your prayers.

God's Therapy

2009-07-29T16:03:00.000-07:00

Summer thunderstorms are becoming more frequent in New York City and my son is freaking out. Sure there are many people out there who admit to being afraid of thunderstorms, but with a teenager who battles with Aspergers' Syndrome and Bipolar this is not the norm.
Today my son started out okay. He kept looking outside of his window. He read some of his books, recited and went online and researched his favorite things. This must have lasted a couple of hours until ~ BOOM!
Okay, my son starts to freak out and starts to curse and threatens to runaway. I try the best that I can to calm him down and to reason with him. He tells me he is running away and I cannot stop him and yes outerspace is the perfect environment. This sounds absolutely funny to an outsider, but to a person who has these disabilities it is very real.
I managed to get him calm ~ oh, so I thought!!! Then all of sudden I hear heavy footsteps going down the stairs and the door opening up. I must have ran in an incredible speed, because I caught up with him. Oh, did I mention I was in my pajamas. I am not feeling so well and thought I could bum around some since after all I am on summer vacation.
The next thing I know is that my son is pushing me out of the way and then he grabs my neck. Now I know he is not trying to hurt me intentionally, but I am choking from his grip. I didn't have the strength to yell or to tell him to stop ~ instead I used my internal instincts. I grabbed him by the neck and he had to let go of my neck to get my hands off of his. It worked.
Then I asked him if he wanted to go to the hospital. He replied with a "yes". Now this is the last place you want to send someone, but he really figured it would be safer than hearing the sound of thunder. I managed to convince him to go to his room and get dressed. We go to his room and I begin to ask questions and to reason with him. It didn't work, but then I said Andrew the sun is coming out soon. He stopped. I went to the cabinet and took out his medication. This medication is only good for the evening, because it gets him groggy and he falls asleep. I figured if I give him 1 tablet he would be okay.
I continued to talk with him and inside of me I was really crying out to the Lord. God really knows I don't want to go to the hospital and leave my son in a place where they will not care for him the way we do.
I have to say that my son took a bath and then went to sleep. He is still sleeping and I am going to let him rest until my husband gets home from work. I thank God that He helped me make sense and that my son calmed down. I thank the Lord for His wisdom.
Decided to take a close friend’s advice and offer my new book They call me Faith in a b/w version and Ebook. Please note that all proceeds for the purchase of my book will beused solely for fundraising and for missions. Lulu.com is offering 10% off if you use the coupon code at checkout: TANYAMERCED6RF7
Please note that I am still believing that many will purchase the photography book at Blurb.com http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/727305 but I believe by offering more options it will generate sales. Thank you for your encouragement and your prayers.

They Call Me Faith by Tanya Merced (Book) in Christianity
Source: www.lulu.com
They Call Me Faith by Tanya Merced (Book) in Christianity : A powerful poetic devotional book that will strengthen and encourage you to hold onto the promises of God.

Storms

2009-07-28T12:54:00.000-07:00

They are approximately 15 storms every year that scientist can predict and name. How many storms have we encountered in our lives that we could have been prevented if we were in tuned with the Father?
I am not saying that we only go through storms when we are not in tune with the Father ~ I think we go through more of them when we are closer, because we are being tested so that we can go to the next level.
Sure the storms are scary and at times we feel like we are drowning and being crushed from all angles. Storms can be very frightening especially when they turn into tornadoes and hurricanes and wipe out all those things you thought were deeply secured and rooted.
One thing I know for sure is this, no matter how great the storm may be and how many casualties that may take place, my God is with me. Jesus is the one that whispers my name and comforts me and reassures me that this too shall pass.
I love the fact that after a storm you can capture a beautiful rainbow in the sky or anticipate sunny skies. Jesus is the one who will bring peace in the midst of the storms to remind us where our help comes from and of His unconditional love.
Mark 4:35-40 MKJV
"And evening having come, He said to them on that day, Let us pass over to the other side. And when they had sent away the crowd, they took Him with them as He was in the boat. And there were also other little boats with Him. And there arose a windstorm, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was now full. And He was in the stern of the boat, asleep on a headrest. And they awakened Him and said to Him, Master, do You not care that we perish? And He awakened and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, Peace! Be still! And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And He said to them, Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?"

To Preview My New Book Called " They Call Me Faith"http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/727305

Stitch by Stitch

2009-07-24T07:12:00.000-07:00

My younger sister loves to crochet in order to keep her mind busy, relaxed and renewed. Let me explain she also has Bipolar. Although my sister knows God, she does not have a personal relationship with Him, but I know that He is tugging at her heart stitch by stitch.My sister has been teaching me how to crochet along with very close friends of mine in our fellowship meetings. Although she talks about the mind in a scientific approach and uses new age terminology I see how we can slip Jesus or Hope in the conversation without offending or making her feel uneasy.I love how the Lord answers our prayers and gives us hope. I love how our Father in heaven is such a patient and loving Daddy who wraps us in His arms. We are learning how to crochet a basic scarf. By the way you would be proud of me, because I have a metal plate inserted in my wrist and I am almost finished with my scarf. That's a miracle in itself.Looking at my scarf yesterday I noticed that some stitches were perfect and some well not so nice, yet intertwined together they made an awesome garment. That's how we are you know....we are perfect stitches that make an awesome garment if we are in one accord.

To Preview My New Book "They Call Me Faith" click below:http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/727305

Rocky Waters

2009-07-23T09:19:00.001-07:00

Summer time fun in New York City is like no other ~ It is hot, muggy, smelly and filled with a lot of excitement. Lately it has been filled with rain and more rain. Decided that my son and I needed to take advantage of the weather. Called my friend and my little God-daughter to go with us to the local beaches by where we live.
I made sure that I packed a cooler with plenty of water and ice tea. I even was trying to be clever and put some grapes and cherries in a plastic container. All that was left for me to do was buy ice at the corner store. Well packed the tote bag and made sure all was clear.
We head to the beach called "Manhattan Beach" this is ironic, because Manhattan Beach is located in Brooklyn, NY. Okay, getting off topic. Well my son is reading his book. My friend is talking about her life as a single mom now that she is a widow. Her daughter running in circles and throwing me with sand. Oh, let me back track. Did I tell you that my son lifted the ice box and all the contents that were inside of it rolled beneath the car unto the concrete floor. We had no ice and dirty grapes. hmmm?
The sand was in my mouth and all over, but she was having a great time and so I let her be a kid. My 4 year old God-daughter begins to bang my son with a huge freezbie on his head and he ignores her. Okay, I told them its now time to go to the water. My friend tells me you take them to the water and I watch our things. I should have known she wanted some down time, but I did not mind and so we went walking closer to the sea.
The next thing we notice is rows and rows and rows of rocks and pebbles washed upon the sand. Now we are barefoot and we have to walk on top of these rocks to go to the water. Okay, I am a trooper. Hey, I am a Native New Yorker. I can do this. We begin to walk across these small rocks. Painful steps, but we finally make it to the sea. Just when we think there are no more rocks in the water ~ more of them appeared. This time I wanted to return, but I have a little girl who has jumped on my knees and a son who if I decide to turn back will just go forward into the sea and will not think about the danger.
I keep going forward thinking this water is brown, unusually warm for New York, and the tides are low. The kids are enjoying it and I am dreading the fact that I volunteered. Then in the midst of the Rocky Waters I notice that we were past the boulders. I had always wanted to do that when I was younger, but couldn't because the waves were rough, the water too cold and yes I can not swim.
Yes, I was dreading the fact that I had to walk back and go through the painful steps once more, but in the midst of the rocks, the muddy brown water, I could find pleasure in the simple things. I really love that God will even use the rocks to remind us that He knows our name and all the desires of our hearts.
To Preview My New Book "They Call Me Faith" click below:
http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/727305

The Fragmented Mind

2009-07-22T16:44:00.000-07:00

Many are the challenges a mother with Bipolar faces. Many more when her only child who is a teen has Aspergers' Syndrome. Let me explain what I mean~ A Fragmented Mind is just that a thought process that is confused, not whole, missing information, sick and defenseless.
I often think of the scripture where it says put on the whole armor of God Ephesians 6:10-18 A mind that is fragmented is defenseless, not able to comprehend nor process reality and therefore always in harms way.
Yesterday, was a very challenging day for my son and I. I was praying and journaling when I heard heavy metal music coming from my sons room. I look at the computer screen and there is this song called " Murder Me" on YouTube. My son was watching these horrible pictures and because he loves to see things over and over it was plastered in his brain in seconds. What caused my son to put such a thing on? His fear of the rain and thunderstorms. A fragmented mind develops many phobias and fears that freezes them from moving forward.
I didn't get angry, but turned the computer off and then I had to wait until my son stopped chanting and evoking the enemy. How at that moment I called on the name of Jesus and my son looked up. I spoke to my son and explained what the bible says about the enemy and how he was trying to distract my son and confuse him. I explained as simple as I could the assignment that has been placed upon our lives as believers and the enemy knows how short of a time he has and why he wants to destroy us. That got his attention.
Well my son went with my husband to a youth service and he listened to the message and prayed with the teens, however, when he came home he was talking about suicide and cutting himself. Again it was starting all over. A fragmented mind may say it's hopeless and life is worthless.
As a mother living with a fragmented mind I do put on the armor of God and know without a doubt that I am perfect, whole, created in His image and therefore no matter how distorted the atmosphere may look ~ My Daddy in Heaven has it all under control.

To preview My New Book Click link :http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/727305

Deformity vs. Normal

2009-07-21T10:48:00.000-07:00

Decided to take my son to Coney Island yesterday to walk on the boardwalk and to read our summer books by the sea. I packed some fruits, bottle waters, two paddles and ball, keys and of course my black wallet. This time instead of taking a small pocketbook I decide to take the totebag to accomodate all the above.
I hope I am not losing you. My son who has Aspergers' Syndrome does not like change. Going to Coney Island was a big accomplishment for him. We talked in the car, but the conversation was the same repetitive and about Nancy Drew books, cartoons, etc.
We walked around the boardwalk for a few and took pictures of each other and had fun. Then he looks at the WonderWheel which was built in 1910 and tells me I would like to go on that. I love the WonderWheel too and so it was a go. We walk through the crowds and the ringmaster says come and watch the Freaks for free. Hmmm. Key word " Free". My son and I gather together and watch as they bring an Alligator woman and a Rubberband woman out. The Freaks and there are more where they came from. The ringmaster keeps talking and talking and the crowds get bigger. My son is starting to stim - for those who don't know what that is it is a habit like rocking back and forth, talking aloud, rubbing and twisting of hands, etc.
I tell my son let's go to the WonderWheel. I dig into this big tote and I'm watching my son at the same time, because he tends to wander off and I didn't want to lose him. I take out 15.00 and left the rest of my money 22.00 in the wallet. I placed it in the corner of the tote.
We ride the WonderWheel and my son is having a great time. I am getting sick. I never get sick on rides, but I couldn't wait till get off. Ride is over and now he wants to ride the most dangerous ride in the Amusement park The Cyclone. I tell my son no way and convince him that it is unsafe.
We go to the park nearby and have fruit and read our books. Our stomachs were growling and so I knew it was time for supper. We drive home and I start to empty the tote. I dig deeper no wallet. Okay, I go to the garage and look under the seats, etc. What happened to my wallet?
Now I start to panic. My drivers ID, Bank Card, Credit Card, and all the other ID's I carry are in that wallet. I call the bank and place a stop. I call the Credit Card company and yes the thieves already bought a 45.00 Metro card and I don't know what else.
I knew I had to report it to the police, but I had to wait for my husband to get home, because I had no license. Coney Island Precint is far from my home. Anyway, I tell my husband I will do it in the morning.
Today we went to the Precint, DMV, and Bank. I called all the places and renewed my ID's. I still have some I have to do in person.
I was going to change the title of this blog today, but kept it and this is the reason why.
Deformity has become a way of life for many including Christians. Yes, I am talking about the Spiritual and the Physical realm. We have come to accept many things and call it normal. We have chosen to put blinders and walk like things don't affect us, but they do.
One way we can change abnormalities, malformations, distortions, on earth is through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Yes, he makes those " Freakish things we called ugly" and turns them around for beauty.
To preview book click link below:
http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/727305

They Call Me Faith

2009-07-20T12:34:00.000-07:00

How do I begin? Do I begin by telling you that I am a person living with the disorder Bi-polar? Do I begin by telling you that I am a mother with a child that has Asperger's Syndrome and 3 other mental disorders? Or do I begin by saying that inspite of the circumstances, the trials, the struggles, the pain, the confusion I have seen the Lord do miraculous things in spite of the conditions.
Yes, let's begin there. I have been married now for 21 years to an awesome man of God. I am a special education teacher in a middle-school and have been teaching now for 11 years. I published my first book " A Touch of Peace," in 2006 and now I am so happy to say I have finished writing my second book " They Call Me Faith".
Why did I put all that stuff out there? I have to keep reminding myself that through faith all things are possible for those who believe. Yes, I believe in spite of the fact.
I have to tell you this journey is difficult. Especially when God uses you to intercede on behalf of others and you see His hand move and yet your prayers are still unanswered. Moreover, when you can lay hands on the sick and they recover, but you can lay hands, oil and fast and pray and yet your son still wakes up in his own world and is still isolated and without emotions. How can you serve and love a God who promises so many things and yet you have not seen them come to pass in your own life?
" Faith" a powerful word. One that can transform and transfigure a person in an instant. "Faith" a powerful word that can give hope to the weary. Oh, how I learned how to embrace Faith. I know that without it I would have chose to leave this world a long time ago. I know that without it I would have given up on the Word of God. I know that without Faith I would not be able to see His hands in my life. I know without Faith I could not please my Daddy - " ABBA".
I have to tell you that before I wrote my second book " They Call Me Faith" I did not know what I was going to write about, however, the one thing I did know was the title. Faith is indeed a wonderful powerful word to embrace.

To preview book click link below:
http://www.blurb.com/bookstore/detail/727305