Joy Comes in the Morning….

published 3/18/2025

Years ago, when we had our garden center, “Stouchsburg Nursery”, Mike and I sold many plants and tons of fish; big fish, small fish, Catfish, Koi, Fantails, Goldfish, Piranha’s (No, I’m kidding). I only told a boy that once when he wouldn’t stop playing and tormenting the fish in the little pond. We loved and still love all the people who became and are still our friends.

Through those years, we were blessed and given many opportunities to be more than a place for just selling plants and fish. God, wanted us to be “fishers of men”. It’s an amazing journey, as we walk where God leads us.

This weekend, I was blessed to teach over 40 women on “The Fruits of the Spirit”…”Do you want fruit?”, “How we get fruit?”, “What hinders our fruit?” And, “What do we do with our fruit?” This was a wonderful weekend retreat, full of sharing stories, learning, and laughing and crying together. We let God dig any hardened soil of our heart, plant new seed, pruned the old and tattered, and learned the true meaning of forgiveness, and going from “Victim to Victory”.

My sincere thanks to Janet Stoyer, and Jeri Stewart for arranging this event and asking me to be their speaker. My thanks also to all that bought so many books(41). May they bless your soul on this “healing journey”. My sincere thanks also to all the wonderful women who welcomed me so, who had such a warm heart and desire to grow, who dared to grasp the gift of HOPE, and believe that God has a plan for their lives. Jeremiah 29:11– “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.” Oh the joy! Oh the Victory, in His expected end! God Bless you my friends….

Be Still and Know…

3/8/2025

In a world that is moving so fast that it spins us like a whirlwind, where we continually are trying to catch up, get our breath, only to start another day where we do the same….It is good to stop, get off the merry-go-round of life and be still and know…..

Be still and know….

–that you matter…to those around you… to your loved ones… to those who may forget to tell you….to a God…who many have forgotten.

–that the problems that press you sore today…will pass…the sun will shine again… and that it can’t rain forever.

–that the Hope you cannot find…cries deeply to your heart, calling you to rise up, comfort and strengthen you.

–that you are not alone…that angels sent from Him who loves you most, surround you, and are cheering you on from the portals of heaven.

–that the trials and unrelenting pressures that discourage you today, are but a vapor, that appear for just a while and then will fade away.

–that life is too short, to miss the things that matter…the birds singing in a brand new day, the sun breaking through a dark cloud, the laughter of a child echoing in the midst… or their amazing hug that makes you feel that life truly is beautiful.

–that joy does come in the morning, that tears are good because they bring healing, and the smile from a friend can change the course of the day.

–that life is worth living, that love is worth giving, that Hope bears us up on angels’ wings and that Jesus loves you.

Be still and know…that everyday brings new love and mercies, that you can make it, that you have friends who care, those who’ve gone before you, many who beckon from heaven’s shore for you to fight the good fight…and to know good triumphs over evil, victory over defeat, and love conquers all.

I will be speaking at St. Daniels Church in Robesonia, PA, Sunday at 9:00a.m. I was asked to share about the work that I am doing and the passion of why I do it.

“Every soul needs to know of that blessed Hope-A Hope that is real and tangible and breathes life into every soul that dares to reach out, grab it and believe.” Be blessed my friends and know you are loved and you do matter. My thanks to Terry Williams for this opportunity.

Dare They Hope?…..

published 2/27/2025

One of the first things that you never forget is the sound of the iron door closing behind you. It is a sound that cannot be compared to any other sound that I’ve ever heard. Visiting the prisons, correctional centers, rehab and recovery centers has been something that I have done for over 20 years.

From local prisons, men and women, to maximum security, the iron door that closes behind me always sounds the same. Whether I am doing a “Crime Impact Class”, teaching on “Mercy and Accountability”; or teaching a lesson on going from “Victim to Victor”, it is what I see in the eyes of the inmates as I talk to them that impacts me the most.

I tell them my story. Many have read my books and have greeted me by name when I visit. Strange as it may seem, rarely if ever, have I heard any of them try to justify their incarceration. But it is just as strange to see the puzzled look on their faces, when you dare offer them the hope that their life can change.

But, oh the joy that enters my heart, when I see that look change, and tears come down their faces in brokenness. Dare they hope? I tell them “yes”.

I remember so many stories throughout my work. I have visited and spoken over 100 times at multiple prisons, rehabs and recoveries throughout the years and across the country. One man in a Virginia facility spoke up one time and said, “You told me something today, that no one has ever told me. You told me that I matter. He continued on, trying to stay tough and not let his emotions show, “My dad said that I was a nothing, that I’d always be a nothing, and that I’d end up in prison. But you told me that I mattered.”

And I do try to tell them that, every time, amidst my talk. That they matter to a Jesus who loves them. A Jesus that I met so long ago as a broken child. A Jesus who told me that I mattered. Every life deserves a chance.

Some of us have had more than one given to us. We cannot fix what is broken. But oh, to know a God who can. To share that blessed Hope with those who have never known, brings me great joy.

I spoke at the Lebanon County Prison on Monday evening and spoke to the women at the Muncy State Correctional Center on Wednesday of this week. Attached are just a few pictures of my journey along with my books. We reach a heart one person at a time and God does the rest. Be blessed my friends.

Is It Spring???

published 2/20/25

It’s been an amazing winter this year! Many would not call it that. I know here in Pennsylvania it’s been extremely cold, icy, snowy and did I say COLD. I went out the other day, and everything seemed to scream WINTER! It was all of the above.

I found myself distracted by ice and cold, and almost missed the other signs that surrounded me. There peeping out of the snow were my “lily of the valley” plants. They were already up about four inches. The sky caught my attention. It was as blue as the sea, and not a single cloud anywhere to be found.

The geese flew overhead and I stopped to watch them because they were totally confused. I’ve never seen them this confused. There were hundreds of them, but all were flying in a myriad of separate groups. They flew into each other, around each other, in different directions, coming together, only to part again and go their separate ways, all looking for their leader. Some went south, some north and some west. I was watching them to see if they were heading north signaling an early spring, but they were more confused than I was. It isn’t always easy to know the season of our life that we are in at any given moment. The sun beat down upon me, screaming along with the flowers and the confused geese, that winter is passing and spring is not only coming but is actually here already; popping its head out of the lingering snow. Sometimes, we can get really distracted when we are in the depths of a hard and lingering season of life. Everything screams out to us that it is winter; that spring is so far away, that hope for warmer and better days cannot be seen. And yet, all of our winter season has prepared us for the blossoming of a new day, a better day, a season of refreshing and renewal. Do not look too long at the winter that surrounds you now, for under the fallen snow, your spring is already coming to fruition. Do not look too long at the gray and darkened clouds that look forlorn and threatening. Look instead at the blue skies that await you, the sun bringing a new season and warmth to your soul. And we like the mighty geese will find our direction also when we focus on our leader, our Savior, instead of all the misguided flocks that distract us. Be blessed dear friends. I will be speaking for The Family Prayer Table, Friday, February 21, 2025. All are welcome to call in at 12:00, at 605-472-5396 code 395806#.

“No Maffew…I Never Forgive You….”

published 1/15/2025

A New Year is here…A New Season……Oh the wonder, of what does this year hold for each and every one of us. Will we laugh, or cry, will we be strong or weak, will we walk or run, be blessed or bear heavy trials, will we be forgiven and forgive? The truth is, we will probably experience all of the above before this year has passed.

I often think of the time I overheard a conversation between my two young grandchildren. They are only eighteen months apart in age, and were inseparable at that time. Savannah being the only girl with seven brothers could fend for herself even when she was only three.

Matthew her older brother had taken her “Dolly” blanket from her. “Give it back Maffew,” she commanded. But he only laughed as a brother can do, and just kept juggling it in front of her and then yanking it away. Savannah repeated more sternly, “Maffew you give that back to me!” But he only laughed more. I almost stepped in to say something, but decided to let them work it out. At this point, Savannah tried to make her tone even sterner–”Maffew…” and then the tears came, “give it to me,” and she started to cry. I almost said something, but that quickly, Matthew’s whole expression changed. He was struck to the core; not by her words, but by her tears. He immediately gave her “Dolly” and tried to comfort her, telling her that he was sorry. It was a precious sight. “I’m sorry, Sabannah,” he said in his young earnest voice. Do you forgive me?” And Savannah who was crying, took all the stubbornness, hurt, and pain, that her three year old self could muster, and said, “NO!! NO, Maffew, I don’t forgive you! NOT NOW!! NOT EBER!! I again, was tempted to intervene, but thought to wait. Now they both were sad, and fortunately, MeMaw hadn’t said a word. Slowly, they began to reach out to each other and started playing together. As quickly as Savannah had said “never”, they were once again, playing together happily. Her forgiveness in her love and actions, and Matthew’s sorrow and repentance for what he had done, had healed the wound. Oh, what we learn at the feet of children. Oh, the lessons we can learn. To know the power of repentance and the healing of forgiveness, is a lesson that we all are learning every day of our lives. In this new year and new season, may we watch for the stumbling blocks that come our way. May we be quick to say we are sorry and mean it with no if’s, but’s or excuses; and may we be quick to to forgive others the same, void of if’s and but’s. “For what shall separate us from the love of God? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.” Romans 8:31-39 I will be speaking for The Family Prayer Table, Friday, January 17, 2025. All are welcome to call in at 12:00, at 605-472-5396 code 395806#.

“Where are You Christmas?”

published 12/31/2024

From “Tis the season to be jolly,” echoed in the words of “Deck the Halls,” to “Where are you Christmas”, we are so often left wondering and confused of what are the expectations of Christmas. I love Christmas. I love all it is, and all we celebrate. My life changed forever, the day I welcomed into my heart, that One who was born on Christmas day. But, I am saddened by the high expectations that is put on everyone for that one day. Expectations that may be too hard for many to bear. These are expectations that Christ never wanted us to bear. Expectations that He actually came to set us free from. He never wanted this day to be a day of worrying about what people think, or trying to please everyone, or going into debt for gifts, or hiding our sorrows.

Mankind, like we always have done with so many things, have made Christmas into a day of sorrow instead of rejoicing. Those who are not jolly, feel there is something wrong with them. Those who can not afford to buy gifts, feel like a failure. Those who are lonely, feel discouraged. Those who are sad, misfitted. Those who are depressed, strange. And the list goes on. It is no wonder that someone wrote the song, “Where are you Christmas” with these words– “Where are you Christmas, Why can’t I find you, Why have you gone away. Where is the laughter, you used to bring me, why can’t I hear music play?” I was thinking just the other day of so many friends and loved ones. I know seven moms who have lost children in the last few years. They grieve heavily at Christmas without their presence. I miss my mom more than ever this Christmas. And yet we live in a world that is full of cliches such as, “Get over it”, “What’s your problem?” I know friends who are grieving over a loved one, spouse, or parent, wherein the Christmas’ they knew all their life changed forever, instantly. I know friends who are fighting cancer, or their loved one is fighting cancer, or fighting health issues, financial problems, emotional problems, and burdens that hang over them like a cloud. And they ask~~Where are you Christmas? Why can’t I find you? Why have you gone away? Where is the laughter, you used to bring me? Why can’t I hear your music play? But the true answer to that question is that it has not gone away. It is right here in our hearts. We just have to push past the clouds that have shielded it’s light from us. It is in our hearts, where our memories, can bring us the joy of their love. It is in our hearts, when we can feel the Hope that was born on Christmas day to lift us above the shadows of life. It is in our hearts, when we can give our burdens of health, finances, and sorrow to the One who was born that day to give us His Peace. It is in our hearts, where Love never dies, and gives us strength to walk one day at a time until we can heal and go forward. It is even in our hearts where we can find the Joy of Christmas~~not in what we’ve lost~~but in what remains. He was more than a baby in a manger~~He was a God born in the flesh to carry us through the storms, the hurts, the pain, the confusion, the doubts, the fears, the sorrows, and our griefs, because He loves you. With Him, we can sing the rest of that song~~”Oh I feel you Christmas. I know I’ve found you. You never fade away. Oh, the joy of Christmas, stays here inside us. Fills each and every heart with love.” Because He is Christmas. Every time you cry~~He cries with you. You are not alone, and are loved so much. May you have a blessed Christmas~~

A Cry in the Night….

published 12/5/2024

We live on the very tippy top of what some have said is the highest point in Berks County. I love being on the top of the mountain. When Mike and I moved here from New Jersey, I told him, I didn’t care so much about the house we lived in, but I wanted to be on top of a mountain. Jersey was flat, and growing up in my West Virginia, I just wanted my mountain back. We have lived here now for nearly 40 years. It is very peaceful. Often at night, or early morning, I will hear a distant rumble through the valley below. I’ll lay there and listen to the train in the far distance passing through the town below. It is a soothing sound.

Then, I hear the sound of its horn break through the stillness of the night, ever so faint a cry, echoing through the mountain. At first it is a light sound, and then increases, as it repeats throughout its journey. It lulls me back to sleep. But as I enjoy the quaintness of its sound, I am reminded that its horn is really a sound of warning. A sound that danger is approaching, and for all to be aware. I was thinking of this the other day when I heard the medevac cross over our house. We are in the direct pathway of its route and I have always tried to say a prayer for those who may be impacted by its mission; the injured, the family, the news that someone will soon receive. Living here so long, I sadly realized the other day that I have often grown accustomed to the sounds that make this home. So many times, I have missed the cry for help that these sounds represent. So many times, it is easy to be lulled into the restfulness of life and we may not hear the cry of those that are hurting, those that are lost, broken, and bearing burdens that no one sees. Then is when I hope that I will hear their cry echoing in the night; like the long lost forlorn sound of the train, or the sound of the medecvac in my midst. At this holiday season may we be in tune to the cries of the heart of those that surround us. Was blessed to speak this fall seven times at various events; two conferences, two local prisons, two SCI Crime Impact Classes at State Prisons, and a wonderful prayer group. May I always hear their cry in the night. God Bless dear friends…..

Slaying Dragons..

published 11/18/24

Often people will ask me how everything is going? Depending on what is going on in my life, often I just smile and say, “Slaying dragons.” It is interesting to see the response. For those who have had to fight battles in their life, or are currently fighting battles in their life, they just smile back, and with a light chuckle say, “yep, slaying dragons, and nod in understanding.” We live in a world that bombards us repeatedly with sorrow, dictates to us what it says is right and wrong, pressures us to follow a “herd” mentality, and threatens us, if we dare to object. Satan desires to sift us as wheat. That nasty dragon desires to steal, kill, and destroy.

And why would we believe him? Why?? Are we not dragon slayers?? Can we not slay the giants that try to take us captive??? Jesus said, “I have prayed for you.” And He said, “I came to give you life, and more abundantly.” As David said, “who is this giant that he should defy us-the children of the living God. How big is our God? Can we not rise up in Him, and slay our dragons?? I can see the weariness on their faces, their worn hearts. I tell them, “It’s okay to feel weary. I tell them, when I’m too tired to swing the sword at that ugly dragon; God told me to just hold the sword, and He will let them fall on it. Stand strong dear friends. Stand sure. “For we are more than conquerors through Christ Jesus who loves us. I will be speaking for The Family Prayer Table today, November 19, 2024. All are welcome to call in at 12:00, at 605-472-5396 code 395806#.

Dealing with Relationships….

published 11/16/2024

My son used to love juggling balls. I loved to see him do it. He got pretty good at it, juggling three or four or more at one time. I like to juggle too, but my limit is probably at the most, two balls at a time. It takes a special knack to be able to juggle. You have to be able to watch and maneuver every single ball all at the same time. The minute you get distracted or lose focus on any single ball, the remaining balls will begin to drop. Relationships are a lot like this. They take focus and determination, time and concentration, and sometimes even a balancing act. I admire my kids, because they manage ten people in their household, eight children and two adults. It is a major juggling act to make sure that every child, and the two of them, get the time, focus, and love, that all of them need. And yet they do this together. Relationships are never fifty-fifty, but are hundred-hundred. A relationship takes two to make it work. One person cannot do it by themselves. It takes an unselfish love, and a lot of work to have a good relationship, with our family, our friends, our co-workers, neighbors and others. “Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”1 Corinth.13:4-7. And when we drop the ball, or others drop the ball, we may have to refocus, evaluate the situation, and ask God for direction. Do we try to “With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, to forbear one another in love?”Ephesians 4:2. Do we “In meekness try to instruct those that oppose themselves”? 2 Timothy 2:25. Do we walk away from the relationship or do we give them space to heal, patience to grow, forgiveness to mend, and God’s love to renew? Do we set healthy boundaries, limits, and even rules against toxic relationships, letting go, and letting God do what we cannot? Or do we “hold the guilty, guiltless, for you are a wise man and know what you ought to do to him?” 1 Kings 2:9 Sometimes, it is all of the above. As we walk close to God, may He direct our paths, show us the way, and lead us in every relationship. I was blessed and did a Break-out session for Voices 2024 at Providence Presbyterian Church-”Dealing with Relationships God’s Way.” My thanks to Pastor Vince Wood and his wonderful staff.

Going Forward….

published 10/30/2024

I love playing Chinese Checkers. There is something special about strategizing a plan and building a path for all those marbles to get to the other side. I was blessed recently to play this game with some of my grandchildren. There were five of us and that made for a lot of bouncy marbles with a lot of active fingers.

As we were playing the game, my Benjamin said something so innocent and yet so profound. His words etched themselves into my heart. He looked at me and smiled and said, “You know MeMaw, sometimes you have to go backwards to move forward.” I smiled as the power of those words impacted me even as we played. Sometimes in life, we have to go back. Back to the dark places in our life where we long ago were broken or hurt. Back to the dark places where we hurt or broke others. Why would we go back? So we can go forward. We go back not as victims, but as victors from the brokenness. We go back to mend and repair what has been broken, and also to mend and repair what we have broken. We go back to forgive, and we go back to be forgiven. We go back to deal, to heal, to feel again. We go backwards, to move forward. We live in a world that can no longer find its way because we refuse to deal with what broke us and let God heal us from it. We live in a world that refuses to repent to God or to say, “I’m sorry” to others, because we believe we are never wrong. We deny, minimize, justify, and excuse the travesties and sins of life to make them fit into “our world”, and “our society” that has set up “their” rules and “their” standards. Rules and standards that we have created to make us feel comfortable. We accept things with our mind that would have appalled us just years ago. But sadly and dangerously, we have accepted these things also into our very hearts and souls; making right, wrong, and wrong, right. We hear so much about going forward. And to win Chinese checkers-you do have to ultimately go forward. Many even quote Apostle Paul- ”forgetting those things which are past,” and we must. But, we must read all of Paul’s words where he says, “I count all things but loss”. To go forward, we must go backward to deal with our past. We must count the loss. We must acknowledge what was lost, how it was lost, and what was done wrong. We must look to God, seek His Word, His Truth, and yes, even His Power, not ours, to go forth and change what needs to be changed. Then we can press towards that mark, forgetting those things which are past. (Philippians 3) Yes, my dear Benjamin, you are right. Sometimes we must go backwards to go forward. “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”–George Santayana Tonight I will visit and speak with the women at the Lebanon Correctional Facility. Tuesday, I will speak for the Muncy State Correctional Institute. Be Blessed my friends……. Marsha (Marty) Barth-Author, Advocate, Speaker copyright mlb 2024

She Never Knew a Stranger….

published 10/1/2024

Momma was something else. They truly broke the mold after she was born. Momma loved and had passion for everything and everyone in life. I don’t believe she ever knew a stranger. And one of the few ways to make her mad was to say anything bad to her about her children, or beat her at playing “Rummy”. I remember the year she had a heart attack and had a stent put in her heart. I decided to take her away on a trip; just her and I. She was so excited to go horseback riding with me. My friend said that only momma and I would go horseback riding after she had had a heart attack. She was my friend and confident. Momma believed in me. She instilled in me that I could conquer the world, and was a steady force in helping me to do it. Love is a strange and wonderful thing. It remains forever in your heart, even when they have passed on. It doesn’t diminish ever. Actually, the love seems to continue to grow, healing our broken hearts as we press forward. I remember we used to talk about the day she would go home to be with Jesus. I’d tell her that I wasn’t ready for that day yet. And she’d tell me with that twinkle in her eye, and her lips quivering with her love for me, “I’ll never leave you ‘baby’. I’ll always be with you.” I think of all these things, and ponder them in my heart, as I remember my mom and all she was to me. Happy 90th Birthday in heaven, momma. We love and miss you…….

“Darkness Cannot Drive Out Darkness…

published 9/3/2024…

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only LIGHT can do that.” Martin Luther King Jr. Great Conference on Saturday September 7, 2024.

Four inspirational speakers teaching on “You are Salt and Light”. Book Signing with author and speaker Marsha Barth. Great food and fellowship. See flyer for more details. All welcome!!!

What Touches Your Heart Today????

published 8/30/24

What touches your heart today? Is it that impish smile that each individual child or grandchild gives you?

Or the twinkle in the eye of an elderly loved one? Is it the glance of hope that radiates through the person sitting in their wheelchair? What moves your heart today? The heartache of 320,000 missing children who have crossed our unprotected border? Do we dare to let our hearts think of what they are experiencing? Is it the fentanyl deaths (112,000) a year? I have never seen the American people so heavy-hearted, distressed, and angry. Do we become apathetic, cold, harden our hearts and shrug our shoulders, as if that is someone else’s problem and not mine? Do we look the other way and ignore all that is going around us? The other evening I went to visit the women at the Lebanon County Prison.

I see their faces in my heart all the time; the hurt, the pain, the brokenness. We must reach out to a world that has no Hope. We must be a voice to stand for what is right, correct the wrong, shed light to those who are too swallowed up in anger to see. We must not look the other way, succumb to the temptation of letting others fend for themselves, and go our presumed merry way. Now is the time to reach out and touch a heart today, share that Hope, let one person know that they matter to a God who is near and not afar off. We can make a difference! You can make a difference!!!

Hungry Hearts……

published 8/28/2024

My friend camps in the summer. In the last few years she has helped 4 little girls that live in a camper near her. The children live in the camper all year long and share it with about 11 other people. It is as dysfunctional as it sounds and it is the children that pay the price. This friend has taken them under wing and tries to help them…buying them gifts, celebrating them, buying them school clothes and supplies. Most of all she loves them. Wraps her arms around them like a gramma they’ll never forget. She has been able lately to bring them to our church. To meet them after hearing their story, my heart melted. It melts every time I think of them and lift them up in prayer. I see their little faces, precious, innocent, troubled. The other day they were reaching their tiny hands up to Jesus as the music played. No, they were not play acting. Their little hearts are hungry for the love and presence of a God that they feel in their midst. Dare they hope, that they are loved and that they possibly matter? I cannot explain all that flooded my heart. Later a friend mentioned this to me also as they had observed the same thing. They know my story and all that God has done in my life. They said they prayed that they will experience what (Marty) experienced as that little child. For when we touch the hem of His garment, our lives are changed forever. I got to give them a big hug; each one of them. I looked into those little eyes only wanting love, wanting to know that they mattered. Love changes a life forever, not just a season. Who will reach the broken and hurting? We will…..We must……

I will speak for Tabernacle Baptist Church on Friday, August 30, 2024. This is a phone conference with the group, The Family Prayer Table. All are welcome to call in at 12:00, at 605-472-5396 code 395806#. My thanks to Dr. Rev Arthur L Brown, Rev. Rose, and Benzenia Hart for this invitation.

“Tell Me a Story, MeMaw”…..

published 5/29/2024

I woke up this morning to the hum of a large bee trying to get through the screen in my window. The harder he tried to get in, the louder he hummed. I lay there watching him feverishly trying to penetrate through the screen that blocked him. Often, people have asked me about my walk with God. Some have mistakenly thought that I was religious. Even my grandchildren often wonder why God is so important to me. The other day, I got to visit with them. This is always a delight for me and they always make me smile. I must remind you that there are eight of them.

They always ask me to tell them a story. Some say, “a funny one”, some say, “a scary one”. I have to think a little, because some of them are young and some of them are older. Some have heard some of the stories, and some have not. I told them of the one that my brother almost fell through the second floor of an old farmhouse that my three brothers and I were exploring. Later that evening they asked me to tell them another story. I thought a moment. The older boys were with us in the kitchen. And I told them about the time that my three brothers and I made a choice as little children to go up to the altar and give our hearts to Jesus. I told them of how scared we were to take that first step out into the aisle in front of all the adults and walk up alone, that our mom and dad were not with us, that we decided this on our own, and how to this day, we still talk about the experience that it made in our lives truly changing it forever. I think the full impact of the story hit them when I revealed how different our childhood was from theirs in that our mom and dad had divorced and that there had been a lot of sorrow and loss of hope in our lives at that time. One, even asked, “Is that a true story, MeMaw?” And the other one answered and said, “Of course it is, MeMaw wouldn’t lie.” They always make my heart smile. I thought of all of this as the bee tried to penetrate the screen. God was that screen for me, all of my childhood. He became a very real God; a God that I mattered to, a God who heard my faintest cry, a God who brought me out of that sorrow and gave me a new hope, a new promise. Visited and spoke to the women at the Lebanon County Correctional Center last night with our team. Always know that you do matter, that you are not alone in the battle, and that the sun still shines above the clouds. Be blessed my friends……

Shadowed by Love….

published 5/12/2024

A special tribute to my momma, that I wrote for her, many many years ago. She was my friend, my confident and my momma……

SHADOWED BY LOVE

At 19, when I was born, my mom had already experienced more of life than most people who were twice her age. She had known the sorrow of losing siblings, experienced the divorce of her parents, barely knowing her father, and lived through a great depression, knowing the reality of poverty.

They lived on ration coupons. Their ration coupons for clothes were issued from a men’s clothing store. It fell their lot if they were to have shoes or coats, they had to be boys. It was at this time that there was an outbreak of lice and the only cure then was to shave the head completely. On Saturdays, my mom and her sisters were given a quarter to go to the movies, while gramma worked to support them. I remember Mom telling me of her dilemma of going to the restroom and standing there trying to decide to go either in the girls restroom looking like a boy with her bald head and boys clothes, or to go in the boys bathroom being a girl. She chose the later.

When she was 16, she was married and had my eldest brother; at 17, my second brother; by 18, my third brother; and at 19 she had me. Married with four children, we lived in a little “three-room” house. It had a kitchen, a living room and a bedroom with one small closet that only one of us could hide in at a time. We carried our water and we walked up the hill to use the bathroom which was outside. These were some of the happiest times that I remember.

Mom was not raised in a Christian home or with a religious foundation. Her Mom was Brethren, her Dad, Jehovah Witness and somewhere in between it all, the children were raised Catholic. But Mom knew something of the Love of God. When I had a headache or earache she would pray for me. When I was afraid at night, she taught me to talk to Jesus. Someone sent me little Bible Stories in the mail when I was young. You had to read the story and to answer the questions. and mail them back. My Mom would help me answer these, neither of us knowing the answer, looking up scriptures and struggling for the meaning.

As my Dad’s drinking continued; I watched sin destroy our family, and I watched as my Mom struggled through all the hurt and pain to keep us kids from being completely swallowed up in it. She pressed 24 dozen blouses a day in a steaming factory to provide for us, while a community judged and condemned her for not being there with us.

It was my Mom, who knew how much a box of hundred Crayola crayons meant to me. It was Mom who nurtured me through my shut-downs, patiently drawing me back out to a fresh hope. It was my Mom who taught me to look on compassion to those without, to reach out to the brokenhearted, to care for the hurting. It was Mom who taught me that my words could be too sharp at times, that trust is best placed in the hands of the right people, and that Jesus would always love me unconditionally. It was her faith in a God, that she said she didn’t know a lot about, that taught me to lean on Him and cast my every care. My mom was not perfect, and she was not religious in the sense we know it, but she knew something of the simple and pure Love of God.

When I look at my Mom’s life, I see mostly hurt and pain. But I have never seen her bitter. She was never bitter at her childhood. She could take the saddest memory and weave it into a story of overcoming. She took the pain of her failed marriages, never blaming anyone, never retaliating back, never holding a grudge. She forgave in ways that I’m still learning.

My Mom played games with us, shared with us, worked hard for us, stood by us and believed in us. She shadowed us with her love and I will be forever grateful to God for giving me my Mom who has impacted my life so greatly.

Sounds of Freedom…

published 5/3/2024

Sounds of Freedom……

I love this time of year when you can sleep with the windows open. The nice cool breeze blowing softly against the curtains, causing you to snuggle down into the covers. Where I live, at the very tippy-top of a mountain, there is a peacefulness that settles on the mountain. I awoke the other day to the nostalgic sound of a train traveling through the valley below. It softly rumbled as it passed through, echoing its journey throughout the mountainside. Softly the horn blew, and then with a louder burst, to announce its entry through the town below, and then softly again almost as if an afterthought. It’s soft rhythmatic rumble lulled me back asleep again. The sounds of one lone morning singer awakened me. His chirp sharp and piercing at first soon softened into a melodic song. Shortly, others joined in, until a mighty chorus ushered in the dawning of a new day with their beautiful singing.

Such a beautiful way to wake up. My thoughts immediately went to the women that I would be speaking to that day at Muncy SCI (State Correctional Institute) in Muncy, PA. I couldn’t help think that they would not awaken to the sounds of beauty and freedom that I had. Yes, many will say, they have made their choices, and they have. Many will say, they must bear the accountability of their actions, and they must. Many will ask, have you forgotten the pain that they inflicted on their victims? And that is a NO! We must never forget the victim! But accountability and mercy, though strange partners, can walk together at times, hand in hand. One does not negate the other. I know that there are those who have chosen evil—for those-my message will not phase them. I speak to those who it will affect; to those who are sorry, to those who want to change, to those who may have never had a chance at life, who were broken and swallowed up into a life that they had no idea of how to navigate, to those who were never given the guidance and love to make good choices, to those who were given them, and yet unwittingly threw it all away in the foolishness of a moment. Oh, for God’s grace that can keep us all from falling, and oh for God’s mercy to pick us up when we do. My thanks to Melissa Wertman and the staff of SCI Muncy for arranging this event.

Take It All Back….

published 4/25/24

To take back what has been taken from us wrongfully, is Victory. I was broken and shattered as a child from abuse–I rejoice in that God has restored all that was destroyed.

What was taken from you in your life, that you have conceded that it is gone? What brokenness hardened your heart, made you doubt your worth, shattered your identity, stole your hope, made anger your foundation instead of love? Haven’t you ever wanted it all back? Then it is time to take it all back. I will speak for Tabernacle Baptist Church on Friday, April 26, 2024. This is a phone conference with the group, The Family Prayer Table. All are welcome to call in at 12:00, at 605-472-5396 code 395806#. My thanks to Dr. Rev Arthur L Brown, Rev. Rose, and Benzenia Hart for this invitation.

A Helping Hand…..

published 4/24/2024

I read a sign the other day and it said, “It’s an accident to fall down, but it’s a choice to get back up again.” And you know, if we see someone fall, instead of thinking, ‘They should just get up’, or ‘They should’ve watched where they were going and they wouldn’t have fallen’.

Why don’t we reach out a helping hand, stoop down to their level and lift them up, never being afraid of getting our own knees dirty. We are our brothers’ and sisters’ keeper.

Was so blessed to visit the girls in prison on Monday. When I see the tears—I know God has touched them. When I feel the tears, I know God has touched me. My thanks to our team, Marilyn Nolte, Theresa Johnson and Wendy Buffington.

Where Justice Can Make a Difference….

published 4/24/2024

I was at the Capital in Harrisburg, Pa on Monday in support of the “Victims Rally”. Sponsored by CVAP (Crime Victims Alliance of PA) and OVA (Office of Victim Advocate), there was a nice attendance in support of the many needs that still confront us in dealing with those who have survived horrendous loss due to no fault of their own. I have been going to these rallies for 9 years now and they can be very eye-opening.

Yes, we have come so far in helping those who have been victims of crime. But we realize also that we have a long way to go. It is no easy task to mix politics with great sorrow. And yet, unless we join forces, and hear the cry of those who have suffered, we are doomed for such offenses to continue. Victims, Survivors, and yes, even Victors, are not broken and weakened people. They are strong overcomers and conquerors. They merit a voice to be seriously listened to and heard even if their views differ politically with the ongoing social norms. The joy, I receive in going to these rallies, is getting to see people, that I often only see this one time of year. These are those who have lost a son, a daughter, a niece or nephew, a friend, to violent crime; those who’ve lost a loved one through domestic abuse, murder, rape, or other violent crimes. And yet they continue to press on.

Year after year. Never forgetting. Fulfilling a purpose. Pushing for legislation. Sharing their stories. Their loss being the banner to wave for justice, their tears being the power of strength, their passion causing others to listen. I couldn’t help notice that in the center of the rotunda where we gathered, the beauty of this building, especially the angels that stood majestically on either side of the steps, their arms held high and holding the light. So symbolic of the strength that carries us to also stand high and uphold that bright light of truth.

I also noticed as I left that day and walked down the many steps from that building that symbolizes the place where justice and truth should stand, some words that were written on those steps from many years ago. “God help us to preserve our Constitution and our Union.” Such a powerful message…may we never forget this when we gather there.

Making a Difference….

published 4/24/2024

Writing my books, “The Shattering” and “The Shattering II”, will always be one of the things in life that I am glad God urged me to do. I wrestled with him about writing these books. I could not see then, why I should make myself vulnerable to the judgments and condemnation of people. In short, I couldn’t see the importance or purpose it would serve.

I asked God about this when I tried to wiggle out of the project. Why would I bring this shame and blame back on me? And besides, I argued, people who are abused don’t want to read about abuse, people who don’t understand the impact of abuse on a child don’t want to read this, and most certainly, the abuser doesn’t want to read about the devastation that they have caused.

I thought these were all good arguments to God-but his answer to me was~~ “It was never your shame and blame to bear. Your father threw the cloak of shame and blame on you with a cover of fear and guilt. It was never yours to bear.” And then in his loving way, he told me, “And I died to set you free from all of these. Write the books, hold your head up high and never let anyone make you feel this way again.” And so, like so many times in the past, I believed that still small voice. And like so many times in my past, he was right! The opportunity to talk, speak up and speak out and help others has been unnumbered throughout the years, since I’ve written the books.

To see the hearts and lives, they have touched, is my greatest reward. Many may not understand this, but I can only tell you that for me, it is a real experience. Was so thankful to be the guest speaker for SARCC-(Sexual Assault Resource and Counseling Center) at Monument Park in Lebanon, PA. My thanks to Ali Perrotto and her wonderful staff for this invitation.

No Longer Silent….

published 4/16/2024

“The greatest weapon that can be used against anyone silent and suffering is the ‘Shield of Silence’.”mlb It is in speaking up and speaking out that we are set free! No longer taboo, we speak out to bring awareness, prevention, and healing for all those, who for too long, have hidden the brokenness of their spirit under the shackles of their pain.

But wonder if we could be made whole? We can go from Victim to Victor!

I will be presenting my story on Thursday, April 18 for SARCC (Sexual Assault Resource and Counseling Center) at Monument Park, 8th and Lehman Street, Lebanon, PA 17042. Meeting will start at 4:00-6:00. All four of my books will be available for purchasing signed copies; “The Shattering”, “The Shattering II”, “Tony the Lonely Dandelion”, and “Amazing Grace-Heaven’s Light”. SARCC provides direct services of guidance and trained counselors, to over 1,100 sexual assault, abuse, and harassment survivors each year at no cost and confidential. My thanks to SARCC’s, CEO Alissa Perrotto for this opportunity.

You Can………

published 4/14/2024

In my book, “Tony the Lonely Dandelion” there is a character called, “Mr. Gruff”. In actuality, he was my 7th grade teacher, Mr. Waggely. As children, he was not any one’s favorite teacher. I have found it so very amazing in the work that I am doing, of how speaking out impacts not only our lives, but the lives of others.

I was privileged to go back home to my grade school in a little town called “Wiley Ford”, WV and read “Tony the Lonely Dandelion” to about one-hundred students-from kindergarten to 2nd grade. It was one of the most precious experiences that I have had in doing this work.

To be able to read “Tony”, and share with the children, that they never have to let anyone tell them that they cannot be anything that they want to be, was a wonderful experience. The comments of the children were precious. One said, “I like it when “Tony” got picked to be the flower.” And one said, “I didn’t like it when they picked on “Tony”. One told us that he wanted to be an artist when he grew up. And when I asked, “And what are you going to say when someone tells you that you can’t be something that you want to be?” A little boy raised his hand and said very loudly, “I CAN!!!”. All of this made my heart just overflow.

One of the most profound things though, was, as I sat there reading my book to them, and listening to their input, I realized, there I was, sitting in the exact classroom (my old 7th grade), with my chair in the exact spot where “Mr. Waggely’s” (Mr. Gruff’s) desk sat those many years ago. It was here in this exact spot where he had called out my name and mockingly announced my test grade-”Layton, 98%, you must have lucked out, or studied awful hard.” He etched those words in my heart and made me determined to show him what I could do! And there I was, all these years later, in this very same spot, telling these children, “You can!!” My thanks again, to Ms. Paula Athey, her wonderful staff, and the children, for this invitation.

We Can Go Back Home Again…..

published 4/9/2024

In 1940, Thomas Wolfe wrote a novel entitled, You Can’t Go Home Again, in which the main character says: “You can’t go back home to your childhood…back home to your dreams, back home to places in the country, back home to the escapes of “time” and “memory”.

But Thomas Wolfe was wrong….We do get to go back. I have been back to my home town many many times since 1972. Many things have changed—many things have remained the same.

I was going through my “memory box” the other week and ran across my first grade math workbook. I ran across my old “crown” some pictures from the “Maydays”. Many thoughts flooded through my heart and my mind in a collage of memories. I felt a smile cross my face, recalling the teachers, principals and children. I remembered how very shy I was back then. I cried every day that first school year. I had wanted to go to school so bad, to be grown up like my three big brothers, but I hadn’t counted on them going to their classes and me being left alone in a classroom of children I did not know.

On Thursday, April 11, 2024, I will return to my elementary school—Wiley Ford Elementary School to read my book, “Tony the Lonely Dandelion”. Such a strange and wonderful phenomenon to be able to share this story with the kindergarten, and first and second graders, as many of the characters in “Tony” originated from my home town and childhood.

I am looking forward to going back home again. Yes, Thomas Wolfe, you were wrong on that point. You not only get to go back…but you get to go back and take with you, dreams fulfilled and hopes restored. There is something special when you look into the sweet innocent eyes of a child and let them know that they are so much more than what they think they are. My thanks to Ms. Paula Athey, Principal, and the school board, for providing this opportunity.

Victim to Victor

published 3/29/2024

I find a great joy in speaking out and helping others. So often when people are portrayed as victims, it can entrap them into a victim mentality, robbing them of the joy to be free. This is not to minimize the victimization, but to understand that the devastation from its fallout does not define us. We cannot wear the shroud of victimization. but must know that we can heal and become whole again, that we can go forth and be a voice of justice, of accountability to the perpetrator, a restorer of the breach. We can bring an awareness to a world that is totally unaware of the atrocities that go on behind closed door. This is why I do the work that I do-because yes, we are victims—but we are also-survivors, overcomers, conquerors, and even Victors. A favorite quote from my book “The Shattering II” is, “If we can be brave enough to enter into the dark shadows of the unspeakable and pull back the curtains, we not only reveal the light, but we also set the captives free. It is God’s desire to take us from lost to found, from victim to victor, from death to life.” Recently, I was featured in the March 2024 Newsletter for OVA-Office of Victim Advocacy.

https://maestro.pa.gov/list/k3hdw2n4/240304H/3rh2yrl1gsen.vib?test&a0=574

It’s Raining…But the Birds are Still Singing…

Published 3/26/2024

The other day, I went outside and it was just a pouring down rain. I hurried right back but stopped dead in my tracks at the front door. Amidst the pouring rain, echoing through the midst of the storm, the birds were singing loudly. I paused and couldn’t get over how loud and beautiful they were singing. The contrast of the damp dreary storm seemed in stark contrast to the beauty that filled the air. I wonder if in our storms of life, we could strain our ears real hard and hear above the turmoil, a song in the air. I wonder if in the storms of life we could persevere through the turmoil to give another a song. I thought of our girls after visiting the Lebanon County Prison the other night…..and hoped they could hear a song in the night. My thanks to Theresa Johnson, Sherry Anderson and Wendy Buffington.

Copyright Marsha Barth 2024

Forgiveness……

published 3/22/2024

“Grace keeps us from falling….and mercy picks us up when we do.” (mlb)

A retreat to remember! “Dealing with Forgiveness God’s Way”. When is the last time you told anyone that you were sorry? Without a “but” or an “if”? I’m sorry “if” I hurt your feelings, “but” I wouldn’t have done that “if” you hadn’t said that. And we call that an apology. “If” excuses our actions and “But” justifies our actions. Oh, the freedom that we have when we ask God and others for forgiveness. Oh, the freedom that we have, when we forgive others also. My thanks to Theresa Johnson for all of her hard work in making this retreat happen. She inspired us all! My love to all who joined with us and made this a wonderful event! Had a great book signing there–”The Shattering”, “The Shattering II”, “Tony the Lonely Dandelion”, and “Amazing Grace-Heaven’s Light”. Kenbrook Retreat Center, 190 Pine Meadow Rd, Lebanon, PA 17046.

Is This “Real Ice Cream….“

published 3/2/2024

I like ice cream. My favorite is probably cookies and cream. I was dipping some out the other day and I was surprised to see that on the front of the box was written in big red letters—-”Real Ice Cream”.

I stopped and laughed, it’s pretty bad when they have to stamp the box with “Real Ice Cream”. I went into the Lebanon County Correctional Center the other night with our group to visit some of the girls in prison.

I couldn’t help think of them today. for they know what the word “real” means. They know some very “real” things. They know how real it is to be alone. They know how real it is to be in prison, to suffer bullying, to be broken and sad. I have never in my 20 years of visiting prisons justified anyone from being in prison. I have visited an all male facility (maximum security) in MD. I’ve visited the prisons in Florida and Virginia several times. I’ve visited the prison in Kauai HI. The Maui HI prison, I’ve visited 6 times, one time visiting 13 cell blocks, which took me 3 days to do it. I have visited many prisons here in PA and have done many crime impact classes for the state. But, I have never justified or

excused them from being there. The strange thing is that most of the prisoners don’t have to be told that they deserve to be there. They know what they did was wrong. They know that they made bad choices. And many want to change their lives, they just don’t know how. Mercy and accountability walk hand in hand. For as much as they know that some things are “real”, they are usually at a loss as to other things that are “real”.

Wonder if it could become real to them, and they could truly grasp, that they do matter? Wonder if they could dare hope that they could change, that their lives could be better, that they could break the cycle of pain and bad choices?? Could this be truly “real”, they wonder. And we get to go in and tell them, “yes, it is truly real”—God does love you.

You do matter. He sees every tear that falls. He knows your hurt and pain and even your anger. He knows what you came from, and if you let Him, He will show you what you can become. It all starts by knowing that God is truly real, and that you do truly matter. I love to share my stories with the inmates and plant that seed of hope in their hearts. I love to tell them that we can go on to be a Victor. I often wish I had a stamp that says “real God”, instead of “real ice cream”. Be blessed my friends and know that you “do matter”.

Did You Know….

published 2/22/2024

It is physically impossible for pigs to look up into the sky?

A crocodile cannot stick its tongue out?

A cat has 32 muscles in each ear?

Tigers have striped skin, not just striped fur?

A shrimp’s heart is in its head?

An ostrich’s eye is bigger than its brain?

I am always fascinated at what we don’t know. But not knowing can be a real stumbling block in our walk in life’s journey. Not knowing can cause us to struggle in our decisions, our trust, our faith and especially in our hearts. I have found it helpful to always seek knowledge and learn, but I have found also that often not knowing all things can sometimes be a stumbling block. So, when I don’t know all the facts, I rest on what I do know, and not on what I don’t know. People often struggle with God because they don’t know why bad things happen to good people, they don’t know why death comes to someone undeserving, why there is suffering, why the evil aren’t stopped. They can’t understand the heart of God. But what about what we do know? That God is a loving God. A God who sees our every tear, knows our deepest hurts and pains, and desires for us to have a blessed life, a good life, a happy life. But do we really know this??? Have we experienced this in our relationship with God? Do we really know that we matter to Him? Do we really know that He is a God that truly cares? Do we know that mankind has caused the sorrow and evil that surrounds us, not God? Do we know that God is not the cause, but the solution?? It is in what we know that will carry us through the storms of life, more than what we don’t know.

As a child, I could not understand the sorrows of life. I did not know that God loved me. How could He?? But then as I walked with Him in my brokenness, I began to see and know His heart. That He is not a God who is afar off, uncaring. When I was about 12 years old, God gave me a promise—if you put me first in your life, I will give you the desires of your heart. I knew at 12 what the desires of my heart were. I wanted to go to college. Meet a good Christian man that would love me and so much more. But based on what I knew—this was impossible. My circumstances cried out how impossible this would be. But yet, one single day in 12th grade, I was called into the Principal’s office and my life changed. God used him to get me full scholarship to college, led me to a man that loved me like no other. (We will be married 50 years in June) and fulfilled every promise.

Never base your life, your choices, your hopes and dreams, your faith and trust in what you don’t know—base them on what you do know. Lest we become like the ostrich who’s eye is bigger than his brain. Lol.

I will speak for Tabernacle Baptist Church on Friday, February 23, 2024. This is a phone conference with the group, The Family Prayer Table. All are welcome to call in at 12:00, at 605-472-5396 code 395806#. My thanks to Dr. Rev Arthur L Brown, Rev. Rose, and Benzenia Hart for this invitation.

A Single Rose….

published 1/23/2024

I pulled into the parking lot this evening and felt it right away; a heaviness, like when a dark cloud passes over the sun and blocks its warm rays. I park and go into the prison and wait for the rest of our team to arrive. We go through the normal routine of checking in, getting our badges and locker key. We go to the heavy iron door and wait for the guard to unlock it. There is a loud clank and we enter in the first door and wait for the door to shut behind us. Another loud clank and the next door is unlocked and we go through it into a long hallway. Here we await at the cast iron gate. We hear it clank loudly as it slowly opens. We pass through it and then hear it close loudly behind us. We enter into the room that we use for a chapel. Shortly, the women enter. They are all ages—from young, to medium age, and to older. As they enter, about four of them approach me excitedly. I remember them from last month. “Marty,” they call out,” we read your books.” One gives me a big strong hug and says, “I feel like I know you, Marty.” I laugh and say, “If you read my books, honey, then you really do know me.” They were so encouraged. One of the girls had read both of them. Two of the girls were excited because they were going to be released tomorrow. I put my hand on the one’s shoulder and told her I was glad I got to see her one more time before she left and asked her, “what now?” She told me that both her and her inmate friend were going to come to our church and wanted the address. I talked to them for a few minutes and encouraged them before they had to sit down. As, we went to go into our program, one of the girls asked the Chaplain if they could see the rose she had brought that was sitting on the table. The Chaplain smiled and handed the woman the single rose with baby’s breath in a simple vase. As I sat and watched the girls, my heart was touched. They handled the vase as if it was a priceless treasure. Ever so gentle, the first one touched the rose as if to see if it was truly real. She brought it up slowly to her nose and inhaled deeply to smell the rose’s sweet fragrance and then slowly passed it to the next woman. She too, took the vase and smiled, as she breathed in the rose’s precious aroma. I watched the women pass that single rose slowly around the room as we prepared to teach them. My heart searched each girl’s face. I saw their hurt and pain, their sorrow and brokenness, the forlorn look of hopelessness, and then I saw them smile at that one single rose. In their hands, it seemed to represent a symbol of beauty and strength, a hope for tomorrow where life can be different, where they could bloom again, a new season where life could be sweet, fragrant with fresh promises. We spoke to the girls, one by one, with our messages of hope, showing them that if only we can touch the hem of the garment of Jesus and know His reality, that our lives will never be the same. That He will carry them and strengthen them for the journey ahead if they but surrender their lives to Him. He, like that single rose, breathing His spirit of hope into their hearts, with the promise of a better tomorrow. This is our joy in going into the prisons, seeing a life transform before us. Visited the Lebanon County Correctional Institution last night with our team—myself, Theresa Johnson and Wendy Buffington.

Love’s Precious Gift….

published 1/20/2024

Young love holds no edge on love that has been tested and tried through many years. It is not Mike and my anniversary. Although later this year we will celebrate our 50th. Sometimes it is wonderful to celebrate love without any event. The other day, for no reason, Mike was kidding around with me. And he said with a big smile on his face, “Oh how do I love thee.” I was waiting for the punch line and just grinned at him. And then he continued, “Thou art fairer than the flower in the field.” I gave him a more serious look. “Thou art sweeter than the honeysuckle on the vine,” he continued with a loving smile. Tears came to my eyes as I realized he was serious. All, I could say was, “Did you just make that up?” He smiled a special smile and said, “yes.” I tried to remember it and asked him to say it again. I actually just wanted to hear him say it again. This morning, he said it again, but had written it down and added to it.

“Oh how do I love thee,

Thou art fairer than the flower in the field

Thou art sweeter than the honeysuckle on the vine

Why dost mine heart shudder at mine mortality

The absence of thy love do I fear the most

Together strong as the mighty oak

Alone weak as the broken twig

As the hatchling clings to its mama’s breast

So is our bond which gives our peaceful rest

There is no darkness with thy love which shines

Thy warmth, it comforts me forevermore

Oh, how do I love thee.”

Michael Barth 2024

I usually wouldn’t share something so personal, but I felt led to let love’s light shine. Love shines through the eyes of a child, the touch of a momma’s hand, a stranger’s kind smile, a friends’ helping hand, the hug of a loved one. Let love’s light shine for it is a precious gift. God’s richest blessings dear friends……

Sweet Memories…

published 12/18/2023

Sweet Memories….

As I decorated for Christmas this year, I found myself missing my momma more than ever. Whoever said that “time heals all wounds” and “absence makes the heart grow fonder”, made a mistake with those words. Time is only a measurable period of life and has no essence of healing. Only God can heal, and absence only makes the heart hurt more. It is in His presence, as I take my sorrows, confusions and griefs to Him, that I find healing, peace and yes, even “Joy”. You see, it is God who sees our heart-every secret crevice, every unspoken prayer, every tear that falls.

I was at Momma’s house the other day and spent some time going through her things and cleaning out the house. As I went through my mom’s pockets, I felt my heart smile. I made a little pile of my new found treasures; a tissue in every pocket; that was momma. She always said, “I’m built backwards, Marty. My feet smell and my nose runs.” There was a wrapper of a York Peppermint Patty, her favorite candy bar, and then the treasure of all treasures, a small brooch that says, “I Love Bingo” I burst out laughing.

Sweet Memories-Precious Love. It never dies, because of Christmas. Hope, Joy, Love, Peace, and Comfort were born that day in our Saviour, a God who has carved you on the palm of His hand and that longs for you to know that you truly matter to Him; that you are the apple of His eye. Love never dies. “Come unto me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” May this “Jesus”, who truly loves YOU, bring you the Joy of this Christmas Season. Love~~Marty

“There’s Life in Our Words”….

published 12/04/2023

Book Signing—December 7, 5:30-7:30 pm at Annville Library Community Room, 216 E Main St, Annville, PA 17003. All welcome.

It’s a funny and yet wonderful thing when we discover things. I can remember when I was very young that one time my brother and I were bored. We decided to make up and write a story. Why we chose to do this instead of playing a game is beyond reasoning. But it was a better idea than writing numbers. I can remember my brothers and I being up at my gramma’s house, and the weather too bad to hike in the woods along the cliff, so we’d get some old paper she had lying around and have a contest between the four of us to see who could write numbers to the highest. We had pages and pages of numbers. I never remembered who won or what the highest number was that we reached, but we thought it was fun. So when my brother Pat suggested we write a story, I thought it was a great idea. I can’t remember what either of us wrote about. I sure wish I had those stories today to read to each other. But one thing I do remember is that when I was about thirteen years old, it was Mother’s Day, and I had no money to buy my momma a present. So, I went out in our yard and picked the biggest bouquet of lilacs from our bushes and put them in water in an old jar. Then, I sat down and wrote her a poem about my three brothers and I. It was the first thing that I had ever written. It made me cry when I wrote it and that surprised me. I wondered if it would affect momma that way. When I gave her my gifts, she could hardly finish reading the poem as tears ran down her face. That was the first time that I remember that the potential of words spoken or written can change a life forever; that words can have an impact on a heart-good or bad; that words can move mountains and make a difference in any situation. I have continued to write all my life, but never thought about ever being published. And then God began to open new doors in my life—and “The Shattering” was written and published, and then “The Shattering II”. Next, was “Tony the Lonely Dandelion” and “Amazing Grace”.

Not long ago, at a book signing, a woman bought a copy of “Amazing Grace”. Afterwards she contacted me and told me she was on her third time reading “Amazing Grace” and ordered 15 more copies for gifts.

Recently, she told me she was on her fifth time, reading “Amazing Grace” and ordered three more copies. Another customer, who couldn’t purchase “Tony the Lonely Dandelion” on Amazon, because they ran out of books, purchased it on Ebay and then wrote a review~~”Wonderful! A book destined to be a classic!” The two books on “The Shattering”, in a prison that I visit, look like they’re thirty years old, worn, cover off and re-taped upside down. When God calls us to do a work, it is He, that makes the impact, it is He that touches the hearts that He created. That is what touches my heart—that there is such life in words. And of course, this has to be true, because He is the living Word.

Book Signing—December 7, 5:30-7:30 pm at Annville Library Community Room, 216 E Main St, Annville, PA 17003. All welcome.

Never Say “Uncle”….

published 11/29/2023

When I was a kid, I remember we used to play “Uncle”. I have to remind you that I had three older brothers and I was the youngest and the only sister. When we would get into a skirmish, we had these grips and holds that we would do to each other until the other person would call out “Uncle”. Then as if an unwritten law, we’d release the person. I have no understanding to this day why we did this, what purpose it served, or why we had to say the word “Uncle”. But even then, I had this streak in me, where I wouldn’t give in. I just couldn’t say “Uncle”. Sometimes, I’d scream, “Aunt”. But that didn’t work, because it was the wrong word. I just had this thing about giving up. Somehow it became a sort of survival instinct-”Don’t give up!” Kind of like Nehemiah on the wall. Sometimes, we have to have a plow in one hand and a sword in the other to get the job done, to fight the battles of life, to survive, to overcome, to walk in victory. Never come off the wall—Never say “Uncle”. God’s richest blessings dear friends. Tomorrow, I will speak for Tabernacle Baptist Church on Thursday November 30, 2023. This is a phone conference with the group, The Family Prayer Table. All are welcome to call in at 12:00, at 605-472-5396 code 395806#. My thanks to Dr. Rev Arthur L Brown, Rev. Rose, and Benzenia Hart for this invitation.

Tony’s a Hit!!!

published 10/26/2023

Interview on ABC Good Day PA. I have recently learned that Amazon.com is “temporarily out of stock” of “Tony the Lonely Dandelion”. Please know that “Tony” can be purchased from me directly from this page, from my website, marshabarth.com, or by contacting me via email, [email protected] This way I am also able to give you an autographed copy and can personalize it to your child the way you would request.

We Are More than Just a Weed!

published 10/23/2023

https://www.abc27.com/…/author-spotlight-marsha-barth-2/

What an amazing day!! To get to share my book “Tony the Lonely Dandelion” on Good Day PA-Author Spotlight.

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. I will never forget the little girl in Hawaii where I read the book last fall in the King Kamehameha Grade School to 250 students. She whispered in my ear, “Sometimes, I feel like Tony.” And then there was the little boy who raised his hand and said, “I have to admit it. Sometimes, I’m a bully!” I smiled at him and said, “So what are you going to do about that?”

My sincere thanks to Amy Kehm, Brett Thakara and the whole ABC staff for this opportunity, their kindness and great support!!

Tony the Lonely Dandelion…..

by: Marsha Barth

published 10/16/2023

Tony is the lovable dandelion who believes he is more than just a weed and wants to be a beautiful flower but everyone picks on him and says he is “just a weed”. October is National Bullying Prevention Month. I will be interviewing on WHTM-TV/abc 27 on Thursday, October 19, 2023 with my book–”Tony the Lonely Dandelion”.

My thanks to Amy Kehm, host of [email protected] for her time and support in arranging this TV interview. Good Day PA airs LIVE from 10am-11am. Remember you are more than “just a weed”. You are a beautiful flower!!!

Dare to Be a Daniel…

published 9/12/2023

As we were driving to an appointment the other day, Mike said to me,”It’s harvest time.” I asked him how did he know? And he said, “You can tell because the wheat is heavy and bends over when it is ripe but the tares stands right up.” The wheat is heavy with seed and fruited grain, but the tares are empty small seeds which are toxic for consumption.

I find it amazing that two plants can grow side by side and look exactly the same and yet be totally different and this not be seen until harvest time. It is truly harvest time and like the wheat we must be true to what we are, lest we appear as wheat and truly only be a tare.

Can we dare to be a Daniel, and Esther, a Paul, a Shadrach, Meshach or Abednego? Or does the cancel culture have us so wrapped up in fear, that we are bound and afraid to be the Daniel or Esther that God has called us to be. It is harvest time…. I will speak for Tabernacle Baptist Church on Thursday September 14, 2023. This is a phone conference with the group, The Family Prayer Table. All are welcome to call in at 12:00, at 605-472-5396 code 395806#. My thanks to Dr. Rev Arthur L Brown, Rev Rose, and Benzenia Hart for this invitation.

The Cloud Has Lifted….

published 9/11/2023

The fog lay so heavy in the valley today that it encompassed us that we could not see as we were driving. So often too, the clouds of life can cover us like a blanket, and we cannot find our way. And then all of a sudden the clouds lifted. Saturday, we had a great conference with so many wonderful women, from every walk of life, different churches, and all ages. Some knew of God, some had walked with Him many years, some were coming out of recovery. We cannot know the burdens that some were carrying—tremendous burdens, that we cannot often see.

And yet the speakers spoke-Theresa Johnson, Toni Stewart, Tamarra Bopp and Marsha Barth and God moved and touched every heart. There is such a joy in transformation—the clouds lift, we can see, and we begin to walk in victory, and the sun shines again. My thanks to all who worked so hard-the kitchen crew, the vendors, speakers, Ruby Shearburn for the pictures, and all the wonderful women and friends who came together for this great event!

Mystery of the Butterfly….

published 9/7/2023

There is a beautiful mystery of the butterfly that many don’t know. Somewhere between being that ugly squirmy worm and turning into a beautiful elegant butterfly, something mysteriously happens. There is a journey that evolves as the butterfly presses onward towards his destiny. It isn’t so much that he must fight for survival, but that he must endure the process if he is to reach his true identity. He will shed his skin painfully five times, before he encases himself in a living tomb to await his transformation. Little does he know what will transpire during that time. His body will release hormones and enzymes that will dissolve his very being except for a few select cells. Through this process he is liquefied and other cells that have been dormant and spared are now awakened and begin to create a complete and new creature, each with their own DNA codes to produce wings, digestive system, and everything that makes this creature a symbol of beauty, rebirth, hope, freedom, endurance, and love.

The mystery lies in the power of transformation from its creator. How amazing that something can be so completely transformed from an ugly worm to a colorful kaleidoscope of beauty to soar away from its past and fulfill its divine purpose. Oh, but what about the mystery of the child of God. Is it any less divine to see a soul broken and shattered, torn asunder, and its life’s purpose dissolved and destroyed, only to see the creator once again make it a new creature in Christ and cause it to rise up above the shadows of life and soar into their new identity and fulfill God’s purpose? Join us this Saturday, September 9th, 2023, at Faith Fellowship Church for our Women’s Free Fall Conference, located at 721 East Penn Ave., Cleona, PA. See flier for details. Book Signing at this event also–”The Shattering”, “The Shattering II”, “Tony the Lonely Dandelion”, and “Amazing Grace-Heaven’s Light”, author Marsha Barth.

Sorrow in Paradise…

published 8/21/2023

Anyone who knows me, knows my love of HI. It is not just the beauty that engulfs you when you step off of the plane, or the beautiful fragrance that feels the air, but it is the humbleness and kindness of the gentle people that live there. I write this article to those who have asked me how they can help and donate to those suffering from the Maui fires. Here is the link that I recommend. Dr. Marocco and his wife are pastors of King’s Cathedral in Kahului and love the people of Hawaii dearly. The church has partnered with nationwide organizations such as City Serve, Convoy of Hope, Mercy Chefs, Samaritan’s Purse and are helping so many.

We have personally met and spoken to the Pastors- Dr. Marocco and his wife in the past. Since Tuesday, more than 700 people have sheltered in the church’s building and parking lot.

I have done a lot of ministerial work in Maui. I have spoken to a homeless group at King’s Cathedral in Kahului. I have twice spoken for the University of HI-on Domestic Violence and Child Sexual Abuse. I have spoken at the prison 6 times, the last time to 13 cell blocks which took me three days. I have spoken at the Malama Family Center and the Aloha House (wonderful recovery programs for addiction) and I have had book signings at the only book store on the island (Barnes and Noble) who donated money to these recovery programs through my book sales. I have spoken at the Waiola Church, which was the first Christian church on Maui, established by Queen Keopuolani 200 years ago and just last year, I read my book “Tony the Lonely Dandelion” to five groups of elementary students, approximately 250 children at the King Kamehameha Elementary School. Both have burned completely to the ground in the Lahaina fires. What saddens me the most are the precious lives that have been lost. There are children from the King Kamehameha Elementary School who have perished in the fire, along with many family members of some of the people we have grown to know and love. This loss hits us personally. To anyone who has a burden for those who have lost their loved ones, and many who have lost all that they owned; their homes, their cars, and all their personal possessions, please feel free to contact King’s Cathedral at the link posted. I am posting some pictures of happier days in our Maui. God Bless~~Kindest regards~~Marty (Marsha Barth)

Are You a Repairer of the Breach….

published 7/26/23

I was raised in the beautiful hills of WV. The beauty of the land is only matched by the beauty of the people that live there.

Lately, I have been reminded about the path I have walked. As a small child, we were raised in a three-room house, not to be mistaken for a three-bedroom house. It was not HGTV approved and the one closet was big enough for just one of us kids to hide in. The bathroom was 150′ up the hill, the horseshoe pegs another 150′ and the cliff that went straight down, 150′ feet farther.

My brothers and I learned very early on, not to chase the ball past the horseshoe pegs. We had a good family, but we had some bad people in our family.

We had love, but often it was torn asunder by the wrong that others chose to follow. I found myself at the age of five broken and shattered by others’ choices. It could have all ended there. Or at the age of thirteen, when I felt that I had lived long enough if this was the way life would be.

An identity of hopelessness had covered me at that young age and was fortified by people who believed the same. It would have consumed me except a light shone through that darkness in my life. A light that showed me my true identity, and filled me with new hope, new promises and a new life. When there is a light we no longer walk in darkness. When there is light, everything looks different than in the darkness; flowers bloom instead of wilting, fear vanishes and hope shines brightly, naysayers words fall on deaf ears and we rise to the destiny and identity that God had planned for us all our lives.

Oh, if you could see yourself the way God sees you. If you could know and find your true identity in him and not in who you think you are, or aren’t. If you could know that you are more than a conqueror, more than broken, more than a failure, more than forsaken, more than unloved. For you are more, much more. But this precious gift of identity can only be found in him, for he is the one who created that identity and purpose in you, and for you only.

As, that small child, I grabbed hold of who he said I was. No one seemed to believe it, especially me. But as I took his hand and went forward on that journey of life, I have found more than I could have ever dreamed. One day many years ago, I was sitting and pondering all that God had done in my life; all that he had changed; all that he had healed; all the battles that he had overcome in my life and all the promises that he had fulfilled, never failing to keep a single promise. He showed me Isaiah 58: 12 … “you shall be called, the repairer of the breach, the restorer of paths to dwell in.” If only we could see that it is never too late, it is never the end. From the day we surrender ourselves to this Savior, this friend, this God, this deliverer, this restorer, our life changes, and it is a new beginning. Now you get to be “a repairer of the breach”. It goes on to say that our children and grandchildren will build the old waste places and that our choice impacts the foundations of many generations. We get to be a restorer of the paths that they will walk in.

I enjoy this walk with God. I found his reality those many years ago and his presence has never wavered. I enjoy sharing this joy and hope, through my books that I have written, through my events, and through my blogs. Yesterday, two of my friends and myself visited the Lebanon County Prison. There we get to share this true reality that we have found, with those who are probably at the lowest point of their lives; a point that many of them think and feel that they cannot overcome or change. Many will go to State Prison from here. Many have a long path ahead of them. But oh, wonder if they could know that they can be “a repairer of the breach”, that their identity is not in the color of their prison uniform, but in the palm print of a Jesus who loves them? This Friday, July 28, 2023 I will speak for Tabernacle Baptist Church in Harrisburg. This is a phone conference with the group, The Family Prayer Table. All are welcome to call in at 12:00, at 605-472-5396 code 395806#. My thanks to Dr. Rev Arthur L Brown, Rev Rose, and Benzenia Hart for this invitation.

The Sound of Freedom………

7/22/23

I had to go see this movie! As many of you know, I am a speaker, advocate, and author against child sexual abuse. I was not disappointed in the magnitude of the truth that it exposed. It was excellently, professionally, and truthfully put together and is one of the most amazing eye-opener and best movies of our times. I would encourage any one, any one, who has any concern for our children to go and see this movie. As an author and victor of child sexual abuse, I know the approach and even sometimes the reproach that is portrayed at this theme or topic. I have been told personally by people that reading my book gave them bad dreams and they couldn’t read it. My thought to this was—do they have any idea of the bad dreams and nightmares that child victims are living through. (My book has no graphics and detail into the abuse, only the reality of what abuse is). It is our responsibility, our duty, to open our eyes, and to become aware of what is happening to our children. I have been told by book stores that they felt their readers/customers would not be interested with this theme. I merely commented that with statistics of 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys being sexually abused by the age of 18, over 60 million adults now living past their childhood sexual abuse, and that every 8 minutes in America a child is sexually molested, it will be hard for anyone to find that child sexual abuse will not impact them at sometime in their life. I have had people ask me unbelievable questions at book signings–”Why is it so hard for a child to get over child sexual abuse?” “Why didn’t you speak up?” I have had people pick up the book to buy, walk away, and then come back and put it down, saying this is too deep for me. I just smile, and say with my arms open, “It has a good ending.” And it does. And so does this movie! It is a story of Victory over Victimization. It is a story of defeating the evil that has ravished our children. You may say, “but what can I do to help the children???” It seems to my heart that if any one has any love for any of our children, they will put “their” feelings aside, or any “discomfort” that they may feel with this topic, and open their eyes and hearts to what is happening by standing against child sexual abuse and trafficking and supporting every cause that rises up against this. I encourage you to see this movie.

Set Free…..

published 7/3/2023

The other day I had two of the grandchildren up to visit. Oh, the joy that radiates from them. We talked (non-stop) the whole ride up to our house. We talked about everything and anything. They ask me to tell them stories, and I do. Stories about them, their daddy and their Aunt Jenny as children, and I even tell them funny stories about them. We laugh, draw, and play games. They love beating PopPop at “Skunk”. We went to the local fair and ate all the goodies. I went on one ride, and only one, turned green, and then ate funnel cake.

Children truly radiate God’s love. That night when I was tucking them in, I asked them who they wanted to pray for. Matthew said, “He wanted to remember all the people he loved that were not with us anymore. He is 8 years-old. My heart smiled. I said, “We can remember Nana and PopPop.” He said, “and Gramma too.” This was his great-gramma. They lost three grandparents last year. Love is so precious and writes its messages in our hearts forever. We see God in the hearts of children. We hear God in the chorus of songs the birds sing at the breaking of dawn and at the setting of the sun. We feel God in the stillness of night, his love and comfort embracing us. His reality is ever present in our midst—but do we call on him? “His arm is not short that he will not save, his ear is not heavy that he cannot hear.” So what does hinder us? I am reminded of this also as I went into the prison last Monday to speak. The women listened with open heart and many shared their story. One had been to her mom’s funeral that very day on furlough. I know also that she lost a small child not long ago. Do we know the hearts of these who are struggling? Do we know the hardships that led them down the wrong paths? We don’t. Do we know a Jesus who will take them under the shadow of his wings, deliver them, and set them free? Yes—we do. On this fourth of July—let us remember the one who truly sets us free. Let us rejoice in the goodness of our God who has truly by his grace and mercy blessed our America.

“Hidden Riches in Secret Places….

published 5/29/2023

Have you ever noticed a squirrel in the middle of the road?? They perceive danger, react frantically, race back and fourth before they hunch up, and freeze right before you as you are traveling fifty miles an hour. Wherein, you then perceive danger, react frantically and hunch up and freeze also. Have you ever noticed in our lives that we face many decisions in our lives the same way as the squirrel??? We don’t like to think that we do, and would rather perceive ourselves as the courageous lion who is unapproachable, or as the mighty eagle who soars above the clouds and troubles that crowd into our lives. The squirrel fails many times because he lacks depth perception and the ability to detect the immediate danger due that his eyes are positioned on the side of his head. It is unfortunate, that often we, in ourselves, can lose our depth perception, when surrounded by darkness, or situations in our lives that are clouded by circumstances beyond our control. It is then that we need to find clarity; find the “treasures of the darkness”, the “hidden riches of secret places.” It is then that we must find the light in our darkness so that we may see clearly again. I have found many treasures in my times of darkness, and many hidden riches in the secret places, once I found the light to show me the way. David found that light also and was able to slay the impenetrable bear, the mighty lion, and the overbearing giant. He found that Light in the Word as he declared, “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” And John found it and said, “ In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. And then said, “the light shines in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.” I have always found comfort in that light that shines in my darkness. Though we often cannot understand it , somehow, we regain our depth perception and our peripheral vision, as the light shows us a bigger picture. What treasures could we ever find in the darkness, or hidden riches in secret places? Oh, there are so many….Hope, Peace, Love, Kindness, Deliverance, Strength….not in ourselves, but in that miraculous Light that leads us through the darkest of nights…

I will be a guest speaker for Tabernacle Baptist Church at “The Table Family Prayer Group at 12:00 on Tuesday May 30th. All are welcome to join us by dialing 605-472-5396 and then code 395806#. My thanks to Benzenia Hart, Dr. Reverend Arthur L. Brown and Reverend Rose for this opportunity to share “Treasures in the Darkness and Hidden Riches in Secret Places.”

Have You Smiled Today…..

published 5/23/23

“A child’s smile makes even the saddest heart happy.”mlb

I went to visit some of my grandchildren the other day. I was blessed to watch them for a few days—all eight of them. They always make my heart smile. They have an answer for everything. It may be the wrong answer, but I guarantee you it will make you laugh. We blew up some balloons. Actually, I blew up one balloon, (see picture).

In a world full of turmoil, it is the children that can show us the way—through their innocence, love, and tenderness of heart. But the question remains~~what are we teaching them??? Have we taught them love, kindness, and forgiveness. Children reflect what they see and embrace what they understand. I’m reminded often from my childhood, as I’m sure many of you are reminded, that children can sometimes also be mean, bullying, and even cruel. That is why I wrote “Tony the Lonely Dandelion”. It is sad, but true, that I can go through that little book and tell you who every flower in that book was in my childhood. I am actually “Tony”. “Mr. Gruff”, was a seventh grade teacher that taught us and was very harsh. His name was “Mr. Waggley”. He called all of our test scores out loud in front of the class. I remember our first test with him. He was calling out our names with our grades. When he got to my name, he paused. This scared me to death. He said, 98, and then paused again. I let out a sigh of relief. But then he stated, “You must have lucked out, or studied awful hard.” It was like I had been hit in the gut with a board.

He, like Mr. Gruff, just couldn’t believe that a “dandelion” could really be a “flower”. The other characters represented in the book as other flowers are the bullies, the unconcerned neighbors, the indifferent adults, and those who looked the other way. All of these are who children learn from and where they gain their trust and values. –mlb Wednesday May 24, I will be reading “Tony the Lonely Dandelion” for a class at Pine Street Elementary School. My sincere thanks to Deborah Miller and Pine Street Elementary Staff for this invitation. “Every child you encounter is a divine appointment.” –Wess Stafford

Shadowed By Love……

published 5/14/2023

Treasures of the Darkness….

published 4/29/23

I was leaving home today to go out and as I backed the car up as usual, I turned and went around the loop of our driveway. I, by chance, looked over at our front window and there stood my husband. He gently waved his hand goodbye to me. Such a simple gesture, but one that our family has done ever since we moved here over thirty years ago. The family would always stand at the window, and when one of us left—would wave goodbye. We did it when the kids were leaving to go on the bus for school. We did it when, they drove off to their first dance. We did it when, they went off to college. A simple gesture of love.

We can miss the precious things of life in the darkness of our circumstances sometimes. On Thursday, I spoke for SARCC at Monument Park, in Lebanon, PA. I spoke of how there are “Treasures of the Darkness”, “Hidden Riches in Secret Places.” These treasures can be hard to find when we are in our darkest hour, but they are there, because God is there. He is not far, from the heart that is breaking. He is not far, from your tears that fall. He is never too far that He cannot hear your cry for help.

He is the Hope that shines in our night, and lights our path into a healing journey. His ear is never heavy, that He cannot hear. His arm is never shortened, that He cannot save. That Hope, that is, and can be, an anchor for our soul, if we will only reach out. My sincere thanks to Ali Perrotto, CEO SARCC for inviting me to speak and be a part of this wonderful event. My thanks to all of the SARCC family who made me feel so welcomed. Keep up the great work!!!

Speak Up~~Speak Out

published 4/26/23

“Our lives begin to end, the day we become silent about the things that matter.” I like this compilation of thoughts from Dr. Martin Luther King.

I too, truly believe that our lives begin to end, when we become silent about the things that matter.” It is with this passion of this thought that I will “speak up” and “speak out” tomorrow in Monument Park, at 8th and Lehman Street, Lebanon, PA, April 27, 2023, starting at 4:00. It is with this same passion of thought that I wrote my books–”The Shattering” and “The Shattering II”.

We so often do not like to talk or hear about things that make us uncomfortable, but I am reminded of what Edmund Burke in the 1700’s stated, “Evil can only prevail, when good people do nothing.” It is not only necessary, but it is imperative, that if we are to ever make a difference, it must begin with us “speaking up” and “speaking out”.

“If we can be brave enough to enter into the dark shadows of the unspeakable and pull back the curtains, we not only reveal the light but we also set the captives free. It is God’s desire to take you from lost to found, from victim to victor, from death to life.” (Quote from “The Shattering II”) Always remember that “YOU matter!!” “Hope is tangible and breathes life and passion into every human soul that dares to reach out, grab it, and believe.” (Quote from “The Shattering II”). All welcome to come and join us. My sincere thanks to Ali Perrotto, CEO, SARCC for this opportunity to be a part of this event.

Speak Up, Speak Out!!

published 4/15/2023

I couldn’t help thinking this morning about all the beauty that is unfolding before us as spring breaks. Everything is crying out for a new season, a new start, a fresh beginning. The trees are brushed with a tinge of green as they burst forth from the death of winter. The “laughy daffy’s” bade farewell as their encore to ushering in this new season has past.

Our lives are so many times ushered in through seasons of life. There are times when we only have the strength to endure and to survive our winter seasons. We feel truly at those times that we will never bloom again. We feel often alone as the winds of winter beat us down. But then the warmth of the Sunshine beats down upon us. It is healing, and hope begins to stir. New life begins to rise within us and we realize that we are no longer the Victim of winter but the Victor of spring.

Many of you know that I am an author. But I am also an advocate and speaker. It seems so fitting that April, the bosom of springtime, is when we promote Sexual Assault Awareness Month. It is also National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 23–29, 2023. It is so often in the spring of our life that we are healed enough to “Speak Up, Speak out” and make a difference. My thanks to Ali Perrotto, CEO/SARCC (Sexual Assault Resource Counseling Center) for this opportunity to be a part of this event. “Where there is no vision, the people perish.”

Sticky Fingers….

published 4/14/23

The sun was shining so bright. What a blessed day it had been. We had just come in from our Easter Egg hunt and the children had opened up their eggs to count their treasures. Most of you know that I have ten grandchildren-nine boys and one girl. The house was full of laughter and beautiful commotion. As we gathered around the table for dinner—we took hands as Mike led us in a prayer of thanks—I reached for my little two-year-old’s hand who was eating a double-stuff Oreo as his appetizer. I asked him, “You want to take MeMaw’s hand?” He considered the Oreo over my hand for a moment and then shifted the cookie and took my hand.

There is something precious when a little two-year-old places his hand in yours. The feeling of trust from their little hearts as they wrap it around yours. But in reality, they wrap it around your heart. I listened as my Mike echoed our hearts of thankfulness and wrapped my hand tighter around Evan’s. I felt the stickiness ooze from his fingers to mine. A big smile crossed my face. Such a precious moment. One I will always remember. I know that there will come a time when I will miss those sticky little fingers wrapping around mine. But for now, oh how I enjoy them. Life is so precious and memories so treasured. Gone are the Easters that many shared with us. We missed my momma, and Missy’s mom and dad, all who have went on to meet the Lord last year. But we go forward—not without them—but with them in our hearts, their love shining a light on our path of life; a light of love that can only radiate from that light of the Resurrection that we were celebrating that day; a light that shows us that death and hell were conquered on that day, and a hope that there is a tomorrow that will outshine the sun. May we grab hold of that Hope that forever shines and Who bids us to take His hand so that we may always know that we never walk alone. Be blessed my friends~~

How Do You Deal With Conflict???

published 3/22/23

I find it amazing the paths of life that God leads each one of us individually. I was driving down to my son’s a few days ago and saw a woman about my age riding a bike. She was Amish and had a school crossing vest on. I watched her literally speed across the road on her bike. I was impressed as she was an older woman with white hair. I saw an older man riding his bike along the road, hunkered down in his coat as the cold wind blew against him. But what really caught my eye was the person on a bike pedaling up a hill. I had to step on the gas as the hill inclined.

As I went around the bike, I was surprised to see that it was not a man but an older woman. I looked in my rear view mirror and saw her slowly pedaling up the hill. She didn’t look at the top of the hill or even look up at all. She was totally focused on her goal–to make it up that hill. She could not focus on the struggle. She could not focus on the distractions around her. She could not focus on the cold, or wonder ‘what if I can’t make it up that hill’. I watched her as she struggled on, the wind beating against her, her bags in a basket behind her, determined to fulfil her goal. She was purposed in her heart. Daniel purposed in his heart the things of God. We are living in a time where we must “purpose in our hearts”.

We can no longer say, “Well I hope I can do this”, “I hope I can make it “, “I hope I can do better.” We must purpose in our heart that “we can do all things through Christ”. We must not let the distractions of life hinder us. We must not let the strong winds of life blow us off course. We must not let our age or circumstances tell us we cannot make it up that hill. We must not let the coldness of other’s hearts deter us, or people passing us by with ease discourage us on our mission. We must not give up! There I was sitting in a warm car, facing no wind, the heater blowing warm air on my face, stepping on the gas, going around those who were pedaling so hard. Our goal was the same, to get up that hill. Our situations were different but our purpose was set in our hearts. Are you purposed in your heart? We are having a great woman’s retreat on “Dealing with Conflict God’s Way “. How do you deal with conflict; conflict on the job, at home, in relationships, finances, health, unseen circumstances, confrontations, and the problems of life? Please see attached flyer for details and contact information. My books and cds will be available at the book signing table. God’s richest blessings dear friends.

Can You Trust???

published 2/17/23

Trust is a beautiful thing. It is as a beautiful rose blooming in the desert and just as rare. True trust is hard to find because so many of our hearts have been broken or shattered when trusting. But true trust, like true love, cannot be defined by what has been broken, but by what is made whole. I had a wonderful experience while spending some time with my 9 grandchildren. My Zachary, who is 3 1/2 years old, and a soul that runs deep, became more interested in the big pool instead of the children’s pool. He is very cautious, which is a good thing at 3 1/2. But he decided he wanted to jump into the pool without his floaties, asking me to catch him when he jumped in. As he jumped in and I caught him over and over again, I was amazed at his level of trust in me to catch him. He didn’t falter or hesitate. This little guy who used to not like to be splashed was now jumping freely into my arms, over and over again. I wouldn’t even jump into my arms if I was him.. And yet, he trusted me. His trust melted my heart. I told him how brave he was and hugged him tightly. It made me think and ponder what would happen to us if we in all our doubts and fears could bravely stand on the edge of life and literally jump into the arms of a Savior who is waiting to catch us. It doesn’t matter if we can’t swim if He carries us. Oh such divine strength, courage, and trust to know Him more. I learn so much from my children . Be blessed my friends.

Joy to the World…..

published 12/29/22

I love to etch-o-sketch. It is a strange hobby, I admit. But it relaxes me. People think that there is no way drawing a picture on an Etch-o-sketch could be relaxing, after all, there are no erasers. But when I make a mistake on the Etch-o-sketch, I just let God turn it into something else, something I wasn’t planning, and it turns out to be better than if I could have erased it. My life has been a lot like an Etch-o-sketch. God has worked all things for good in my life, even the hard things, the sad things, the bad things. He can do this if and only if, I surrender all these things to Him. There is an old song I sing—one of my favorites–”Something Beautiful”. “Something beautiful, something good. All of my confusions, He understood. All I had to offer Him, was brokenness and strife. But He made something beautiful out of my life.” I am reminded of the difference between Joy and Happiness. Happiness is an emotion-Joy is a fruit of the Spirit. Happiness is often determined by the circumstances in our life—but joy is an assurance, and a peace in spite of the circumstances. It is that peace and assurance that carry me through the storms of life, through the hurt and pain, the grief and sorrow. Joy is a presence, God’s presence-a peace that passes understanding. This doesn’t mean that I don’t feel sorrow, deep sorrow. It doesn’t mean that I don’t cry. I truly do. But I do know that I have gained great comfort from that grief and sorrow when I allow God to wipe away my tears. Truly in His presence-there is fullness of joy. Happiness brings me laughter-and I love to laugh. But oh, joy brings me peace. And peace brings me hope. I mentioned to my beautiful Missy, who has had great loss this year in the loss of both her mom and dad, that I am ready to tuck this year away and start a new year. She smiled and agreed. As we continue to walk through this Christmas season into a new year, let us remember that more than the gold, frankincense and myrrh that the wise men gave to Jesus, was the gift that he gave to us–”Joy to the World.” Be blessed my friends….

The Joy of Christmas…

published 12/19/2022

A very Merry Merry Christmas to our dear friends and family. How quickly the seasons of our lives change. The air is brisk and cold now and whips past us reminding us that fall is gone and the harvest has passed. Now we enter a new season that will beckon in the joy of Christmas. But many with a saddened brow will hang their head at the mere thought of how Christmas can be joyful. Many that I know these last few years have lost dear loved ones. We have been to nine funerals this year and have been impacted closely by 10 deaths. Their seat remains empty at the holiday dinners. I, too, had to say goodbye to my dear momma this year as I released her into the hands of our Jesus. Christmas never will be the same without her. Christmas will never be the same without those we love so dearly. I hold every one of them in my heart forever and will keep them with me at every holiday, every blessed event, and every season of my life. But I am reminded, that the “joy” of Christmas is not in our memories past, but in that same Jesus who holds our tomorrows. He is the one who was born that day to bring us hope, love, peace, and yes, even “joy”. I was remembering the many Christmas’ past. So many of them were filled with the struggles and heartaches of life, and yet I smile, when I see my three brothers and I trudging up to Grandma’s house for Christmas dinner, or racing down Macabee’s hill on our new sleds, or listening for my children to rush down the steps after hearing the Christmas bells ring, and now watching my ten grandchildren with their eyes in wonder, excited to open their presents. The joy of Christmas can never be found in the sorrows of what we have lost, but can only be found in the blessings of today, and the promise of hope for tomorrow. So at this Christmas time, my dear friends and family, we wish all of you, the “joy” of Christmas. May God’s love carry you through the storms of life and his peace comfort your heart from the anguish of sorrow, and His promises breathe a new hope into your heart; for this is truly Christmas. We wish you a blessed and happy Christmas season. All our love and prayers….Marty and Mike

A Night to Remember….

published 12/11/2022

As this Christmas season draws near, I am reminded of how very blessed I am. I dedicate this story to my wonderful husband and my terrific son. Both who personify and inspired the story below………

“Daddy,” the boy began slowly, “What is Christmas?”

The father began to speak, but stopped to pause. He continued to look into his young son’s eyes, full of wonder and thought. He wanted to tell him about how every question of our heart was answered on that first Christmas. He wanted to tell him of the hope that the Savior’s birth gave us, of the doubts and fears those young parents had, not knowing what to do or where to go, about shepherds who saw angels, and wise men led by a star. But he knew that his son had heard the story of Christmas and that he was asking him something more, something much deeper.

The father smiled down at his small son and began to speak softly, “Christmas is a night to remember.” The boy looked in earnest as his dad continued…

“Christmas is hope when your night turns to day.

Christmas is light that will show you the way.

Christmas is peace when your heart fills with fear.

Christmas is truth to know that He’s near.

Christmas is strength when we feel we shall fall

Christmas is grace who hears when we call.

Christmas is courage when doubt rushes in

Christmas is mercy that saves us from sin.

Christmas is all, of these things above.

Christmas is joy in knowing His love.”

The little boy sat quietly and took in the words of his father that he so loved and trusted. He looked up, deep into his eyes once again, and then softly said, “It’s a night to remember, daddy, isn’t it?”

The father put his arm around his little boy and gave him a hug. “Yes, son, it is a night to remember.”

A Tribute to Love…..

published 12/3/2022

Gramma’s house was quaint, but the security and love it represented had always been a refuge for us. The big oak in gramma’s front yard towered before us as we approached her house. We were almost there and I paused for a few moments to get my breath. My thoughts wandered. Mom and Dad had just gotten divorced. Everything had changed and a great sorrow had filled my heart. I was eight years old and life had suddenly became very complicated as I discovered that the world is not always a wonderful and perfect place. The thud of a snowball hitting my shoulder and two more soaring past my head brought my thoughts back to the present. Grabbing a handful of the freshly fallen snow, I tried to pack a snowball to throw back at my brothers but the snow powdered through my fingers as I threw it and the remnant missed them completely as they ran ahead.

“Wait up you guys,” I yelled, as we all headed for the door to gramma’s house. We barged gleefully into the house, letting the door slam behind us. We yanked off our coats and threw them on the three-foot heap of coats already piled upon grandpap’s old stereo. Gramma and our aunts were all busy cooking dinner. Some were stirring, some were mashing and all were talking. There was nothing fancy at Gramma’s house. There was no wreath on the door, no garland draped around the stairs, no silver or china on the table. There was just a warmth that engulfed the soul and gave a security that only the love of Christmas can bring. I saw that the table would soon need to be set, so I darted up the steps quickly before I was seen. I rounded the corner, past the old piano, and into the living room that was full of the chatter of my brothers and cousins.

In the corner was gramma’s Christmas tree. It was a little pine that my uncle had cut down out of the woods a few days before. The tiny tree was trimmed and twinkled in the dim light. I stood watching the bubble lights. These were my favorites. I became oblivious to the laughter of my cousins and brothers as I gazed into the reflections of those same ornaments that gramma placed on the tree each year.

I knew that later we would eat dinner and then all of us would gather in this tiny room and gramma would give us our presents. The room would burst with the voices of so many loved ones. I can still hear them in my heart to this day.

Somehow Christmas was different after that year. All are so precious. They come together now as a collage of memories filled with love; more an era of my life than separate events.

Christmas was no longer presents under the tree. It was love and family. For the first time, I began to see the real meaning that was represented in the Savior’s birth. It was the gift of love.

I Didn’t Know….

published 11/14/2022

I love the Monarch butterfly. Can anything be more beautiful than a slimy awful caterpillar that turns into one of the most beautiful and gracious creatures that God has ever created? I learned an amazing thing this weekend while away at a Book Signing for my books and a conference on Human Trafficking. Many beautiful butterflies never emerge from their cocoons. Often they are destroyed by all sorts of predators, from no fault of their own, while nestled in their cocoon that is supposed to nurture and protect them. Actually only 1 out of 10 ever survive to become that beautiful butterfly.

I wonder how many of us have been threatened in our lifetime by the predators of this world? How many of us as children or even as adults have fought to emerge as that beautiful butterfly? Or are some of us still stuck in the cocoon of life fighting to find our true identity? God never meant for us to remain that caterpillar—it was our destiny in Him, for all of us to emerge as that beautiful butterfly. Never lose heart or hope—God is a healing God.

Never believe the lie that you are just a slimy worthless caterpillar when you are a beautiful butterfly.

Fight the good fight. Call on a God that you truly matter to. Surrender to the One who will take you under the shadow of his wings, into the secret place, where you will emerge as His beautiful Monarch. My thanks to my dear friend Delilah Rumburg, Pastor Vince Wood, and all my friends from Providence Presbyterian Church in York, PA and Dr. Heather Evans, guest speaker for this wonderful conference. God’s richest blessings……

“Suffer the Children to Come Unto Me….”

published 11/9/2022

I remember when I was a little girl, we sang the song, “Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world.” Children are precious. I was reminded of just how precious and unpredictable they can be. I was blessed to speak to the children at the Kamehameha Grade School in Maui, Hawaii. I spoke to five sessions of eleven classes (approximately 150-200 students), ages Kindergarten-Third Grade from 8:30 to 11:30. I read to them my book “Tony the Lonely Dandelion”.

October was National Prevention of Bullying Month. They were absolutely precious. I think I know now how Art Linkletter must have felt when he talked with the children. You really never know what they are going to ask you. It can be much trickery than when I go into the prisons or the rehabs to present. One little girl asked me, “Where did you get the idea to write about Tony?” I answered-”from my children when they were just 3 and 1 years old.” She asked, “How old are they now?” And I answered, “42 and 44”. A slight pause, and then the little boy beside her said, “Then how old are you?” I burst out laughing and answered, “older.” The little girl reached over and poked him and said, “You’re not supposed to ask her that.” And then there was the little girl who asked me so maturely, “But how do you find the words to write it like that?” I paused and then simply said, “For me, God has to give me the words.”

The children would interact and say, “Oh that was mean for them to say that to Tony!” Or, “Poor Tony.” There was one little boy who was trying so hard to sit still and it was a real challenge for him. After a while, he raised his hand and reluctantly said, “I have to admit it. I don’t want to. But sometimes, I’m a bully.” I held back a smile and said, “So what are you going to do about that?” We shared back and forth and I got a lot of hugs on the way out. They made my heart smile.

And then there was my one little girl, hair in pigtails, kind eyes, and a gentle spirit, who lined up to go back to her class. She leaned over to me as I still sat in the chair, and softly said, “Sometimes, I feel like Tony.” I wanted to pick her up and put her in my pocket and take her home with me.

It is no wonder to me why Jesus loved to sit and talk with the children. Do we teach them, or truly do they teach us? Jesus loves the little children of the world. God Bless~~~

The Power of Words…..

published 10/17/2022

It’s an amazing thing…the power of words. They can break or mend a heart. They can lift up or tear town. They can revive or destroy a soul. There is no such thing as “sticks and stones will break my bones, but names will never hurt me.” I remember when I was young, I went to a neighbors house to play. She was in my class at school and also in my Sunday School class. I was shy back then, and it took all of my effort to join her on the swing set. She didn’t say a word. Shortly, her mom came out and called her in for lunch. I sat down on the porch and waited for her to come back out. After a long time, her mom came out and said, “You might as well go home, she’s not coming back out!” And yet, I remember also the time, it was Mother’s day. I couldn’t wait to spend the day with my momma and give her the card I had made for her along with a bouquet of lilacs. This card was different because I had written her a poem in this one. It was the first story I had ever written. I watched as she read it and tears came down her cheeks and then she turned and gave me a big hug. Oh, there is such power in words. I had a wonderful book signing at Joy Bookstore, 2487 Stiegel Pike, Schaefferstown, PA . My sincere thanks to the owners, Jean and her son Tim who supported me in this. I met so very many nice people and talked with every one of them. And again, I saw a tear or two crease their brow. Oh, there is such power in words. Speak a word today, hug someone with your thoughts, and watch a heart change forever….God bless dear friends.

Wonder if…..

published 10/5/2022

I wonder what would happen if we truly took the time to look into the heart of a child. They are always so jubilant and full of life that often we can miss the turmoil that might be going on in their little hearts. I wonder also how many of us can remember a particular time in our childhood when we were bullied, or felt all alone in the world, and no one knew this, except us. October is National Bullying Prevention Month. Statistics show that 1 out of 5 students report being bullied in school. The sad thing is that so often the children being bullied at school are also having a struggle with abuse in their homes also. This leaves the child feeling so alone and without hope.

My newest book “Tony the Lonely Dandelion” is a story of Tony overcoming his bullying and triumphing over all those who bullied him. Just newly released, I had written it many years ago for my children. In preparing it for publishing, I realized strangely enough that I could identify all the characters in the book from my childhood bullied days. Bullying leaves an impact on a child—but wonder if we can plant a seed of hope into a child, let them no how valuable they are, and that they are not what others say they are, but shine in their own light and identity. I will be having a Book Signing coming up on Friday, October 14, at JOY Bookstore located at 2487 Stiegel Pike, Schaefferstown, PA 17088, 717-949-6569 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. JOY Bookstore is also having a grand sidewalk sale then. 717-949-6569. I will be signing copies of my new releases–”Tony the Lonely Dandelion”, and “Amazing Grace, Heaven’s Light”, along with my other two releases, “The Shattering” and “The Shattering II”. Hope to see you all there. If not in the area feel free to private message me for your autographed copy. Remember the “Seeds of kindness return a hundredfold.” God’s richest blessings……

“Walk into Your Season….“

published 9/13/2022

Have you ever noticed how subtly a change in season comes upon us? It is as if all of nature takes a pause, a deep breath, and then yields to the beauty that awaits it. The birds have a different song. The squirrels fleet back and forth, unsure of whether they should eat that nut or store it away. Even the flowers seem to push forth their last blooms in full splendor as if to celebrate and declare the fullness of their purpose. And so it is with life. Life is only mundane, if we fail to see the beauty of our season.

What a wonderful gift God has given us, this gift of living. For many years, my husband and I had a garden center. It encompassed our life with many joys, sorrows, and beauty. Now, we walk in a new season. A season that continues in transition. This is the joy of life, to walk and go forward into seasons that are ever unfolding before us.

“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God has prepared for them that love him.” Had a great time on Saturday. Presented, “Wearing the Crown of Forgiveness” and then followed with a book signing of my books….”The Shattering”, “The Shattering II”, “Tony the Lonely Dandelion”, and “Amazing Grace, Heaven’s Light”. The joy is in seeing lives impacted, hope overcoming sorrow, peace conquering despair, victory triumphing over hardships. Walk into your season…..

“Wearing Forgiveness as a Crown…..“

published 9/6/2022

Ashes for beauty, he has promised us…I look back at my childhood now and no longer see the ashes, but the beauty. I remember not too long ago, when my granddaughter was only three years old and she and her four year old brother were playing. He took her “Dollie” and she said, “give it bak Maphew.” He laughed, and wouldn’t give it back. I watched them go back and forth letting them work it out until Savannah started to cry. Her brother, moved with compassion, said, “Here, Sabanah, you can have it,” and gave it back to her. Still sobbing, Savannah took her “Dollie” and said very firmly to her brother. “No! No Maphew. I never fagive you, no, not ever!” But her heart spoke louder than her words and within minutes they were playing together again. I can look back to my childhood and see beauty because of God’s wonderful gift of forgiveness.

I wear it today as a “crown of Victory”. We will only see ashes, if we live in unforgiveness. The joy of being free from the burden of unforgiveness is a choice, an experience, not a feeling, not a condonement, not a release of accountability, but a choice to cease to hold onto an anger that is destroying my heart, to release the debt that was owed to me, and to reach further into a path called Victory!” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hk7_SBxYSZs

Trade these ashes in for beauty

And wear forgiveness like a crown

Coming to kiss the feet of mercy

I lay every burden down

All welcome and invited to attend this free conference on September 10, 2022. See flyer.

“Are You My Friend?”

published 8/15/2022

The other day I was blessed to be with eight of my ten grandchildren. They range in age from one years old to fifteen years old. The blessing was being with them for five days. I was supposed to be watching them, but in hindsight, I realize that in many ways they were watching me. My three-year-old is at that precious age of where he is learning the ropes to be one of the big boys. There are seven boys and one girl. I heard him ask his seven-year-old brother one day, “Are you my friend?” And without hesitation, his brother answered simply, “yes”. A short time later, I heard him in the living room with the rest of his siblings, and he asked his nine-year-old brother, “Am I your best friend?” And again, without hesitation, he answered, “Yes.” He then asked his brother, “Can I have some of your cotton candy?” And, his answer was as simple as the first, “No.” My little guy continued to try to persuade his brother. This same little guy loves to pretend to talk

on the telephone. I caught him one day not long ago trying to play one of my old Vectrex video games. He couldn’t figure out how to turn it on. He didn’t know I was watching. He picked up the toy telephone that was beside him and talked into the phone and said, “Hey, dis machine is not wouking. Can you come fix it?” Such persistence. And yet, I heard him once again the other day on his phone saying, “Yea, uh huh?” And then, “okay, bye.” When he got off, I asked him who he was talking to? He said, PopPop. His other PopPop has been in the hospital. I asked, “How is PopPop doing?” He answered smiling, “He’s getting better.” I asked, “did you talk to Nana?” He said, “No,” and immediately got his invisible pretend phone and called her. “Uh, huh. Yes. How is PopPop? Ok, bye.” I said, “How is Nana?” “Ok.” “And PopPop?” “She said, ‘He’s getting better’.” My heart smiled. Later that night, before bed, the seven-year-old asked if we could pray for PopPop. And without knowing this my five-year-old little girl asked the same thing. Oh, how their little hearts have such great faith.

We spent our days, playing wild games of “Sorry”, horseshoes, blowing bubbles, and wild glow-stick parties at night. We talked and shared stories, put out fires when disagreements arose, and made memories. I learn from them. They learn from me. My heart smiles. “Are you my friend?” Always honey. Always!

“Magic of the Morn”…..

published 6/30/2022

Not long ago, I was presented with a lovely gift from my three year old grandson. He came running up to me and said, “Here, MeMaw, these are for you.” And then he presented me with two of the most beautiful flowers a grandma could ever receive- two beautiful yellow dandelions. “Everyone knew that the highest honor among the flowers was to be given to someone’s mommy” or grandma. (Quote from ‘Tony the Lonely Dandelion’). Can there be any gift greater than a gift of love? Oh that we could see beauty through a child’s eyes; how different our world would be. Little did he know how precious that gift of love really meant to me. Most of you know that I recently have lost my momma. There is a sorrow that comes with a loss of someone who has been so pivotal and instrumental in your life. We grasp for remnants of their love and want to refuse the truth that they have passed on to our eternal home. I have a great peace with mom’s passing as we had talked often about her going home to be with Jesus, and yet, there is this hole in your heart when someone passes on. God is such a good God. One who said, “Oh Jerusalem, Jerusalem, how often would I have loved you, but you would not.” Oh, dear soul, how often He would comfort you, but you would not. Oh, America, America, how often has He loved you, but you would not. And yet, Joy comes in the morning. Joy doesn’t mean that our sorrow will be gone, it means that we can have peace in the sorrow. I went in to visit my momma’s place recently. There, I realize she is truly gone; and there I still feel closest to her. I sit on her porch and look at the view and I am carried away with my memories and am again reminded of a poem that my momma wrote long ago—

“Memories are made of many things,

that marks the time gone by,

Some happy ones, sort of sear your brain,

and stay picturesque inside.

The sad ones will stay awhile,

then melt away with tears,

Which leaves us with the time gone by,

the most picturesque of years. (Ethel Shaw)

While I was in and cleaning out some things, I ran across her copy of the devotional “Streams in the Desert”. She had it marked with the flap of the cover. I knew momma; that was the way she would mark her pages that she wanted to share with me. She would often call me up and read the whole passage to me. I took the book out on her porch and opened it. There in the pages laid a little wisp of momma’s hair. I softly felt the pages and then read the words, “Heaven is in the forget-me-not, though sorrow now be sorrow, Yet sorrow shall be beauty in the “magic of the morn.” David said it this way, “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” Be blessed my friends…….

We Are More Than Conquerors…..

Women’s Conference May 2022

I was reflecting back the other day on some of the battles that Mike and I have fought throughout our lives…Mike had said to me one day, “you know Mart, we do not live a normal life.” I had to laugh, because we don’t. We went to the store one day when we were young and saw two men robbing a woman at K-Mart-we chased them down. We chased down attempted robbers at our store years ago and held the one until the police came. We’ve survived floods at our business where they pumped 500,000 gallons of water off our land. My brother Pat and I watched a wreck explode right in front of us one time. My brother being a nurse, we stopped, and concerned the car would explode, we got the man out of the car. My brother gave CPR without hesitation, disregarding his life, as I held the man’s head in my lap and prayed for him. Mike and I have held our lifeless son in our arms and watched God breathe the breath of life back into him. We have fought legal battles, politics, injustices, and unexpected occurrences in the strangest places. Even in Disney, a man collapsed where we were at and again, as Mike called 911, I held the man’s head in my lap and prayed, as others did CPR. We prayed for a man that wrecked his motorcycle right in front of us. We could hardly get stopped as we were pulling a U-haul with our 67 Camaro. He was thrown over a bridge and managed to walk up the bank and we talked with him before the ambulance came. Why does God put us in the places He does?? Because we are more than conquerors in Christ. We are Victors!!! Do we lay down the sword? Never!!! Do we get too tired to battle and slay the dragons??? NO!!!! When do other lives not matter??? Do we do it in our own might or power?? “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of the armies.” Zechariah 4:6 We are more than conquerors….We are Victors….. I have never been sorry for not living normal. I begin to think normal may be highly overrated. Be blessed my friends…Spring Conference at Faith Fellowship Church 2022

Happy Mother’s Day Momma…..

published 5/7/22

https://www.facebook.com/castingcrowns/videos/791445534879406

This is my first Mother’s Day without my momma. She told me many times when we talked about this day, “I’ll always be with you my baby”. But I wasn’t ready to let her go. This video popped up while I was watching a swan video. There is no explanation, except that God knew I needed to hear it. Thought it might encourage others in their time of loss. God constantly reminds me–“She knew how much you loved her.” And I knew how much she loved us. The rest we will understand by and by. Happy Happy Mother’s Day Momma.

Where Does Strength Come From….

published 4/26/2022

Marsha (Marty)Barth with advocate, and Lisa Ryan (Office of Victim Advocate)

As a child, I grew up in beautiful West Virginia. A place where the people radiate goodness and the mountains reflect the strength of their heart. Yesterday, I traveled to the capital in Harrisburg to speak at the Crime Victims Summit 2022. As an advocate, I truly believe we can make a difference. Edmond Burke stated back in the 1700’s, “Evil can only prevail, when good men do nothing.” In a day, where we are being confined in using our voice, we must cry out the louder. Truth must reign, even when others say it is not truth. Truth must reign, even if it is not popular. Truth must be heard, if we are to stand against the wrong that prevails in our midst. I was asked to speak on resilience. Resilience does not give us strength, strength gives us resilience. Resilience must not be a substitute for healing. Both healing and resilience are a journey, not a microwave fix.

Marty at 5 years old with her Cocker Spaniel and friend-“Mamie”.

I shared a part of my story where I found the strength that led me to resilience. A strength then, as it is now, something that I found in what my three brothers and I did every Sunday morning in our childhood. Every Sunday morning, we would get ourselves up and dressed, fix our breakfast and head out the door of our house. My one brother had an uncombed rooster tail sticking up and usually sported a black eye, my other brother usually had milk spilled on his shirt, and my other brother usually had his shirt half tucked in and the other half hanging out. I usually had scuffed shoes, and my hair going in all directions. But we walked up the dirt road, (it is still a dirt road), with our little Cocker Spaniel following us to the top of the hill. There our puppy would lay down and wait for us at the door of the country church. It was there that I found my strength, that I found my hope; not in people, not even in religion, but in a God that I mattered to. People need to know that they matter. It is the first thing that I tell the inmates when I go into the prisons, or re-entry or rehabs. YOU DO MATTER! God’s richest blessings to you.

Rebecca Buckham CAC, Marsha (Marty) Barth and Chris Kirchner Exe. Director, CAC (Children’s Advocacy Centers)

My thanks to CVAP (Crime Victims Alliance of PA), OVA (Office of Victim Advocate; Lisa Ryan), and CAC (Children’s Advocacy Centers; Chris Kirchner and Rebecca Buckham) for all the work that they are doing.

It Was a Blizzard…..

published 4/19/2022

Yesterday, Mike and I traveled up to Frackville, PA. I couldn’t get over how much the drive reminded me of my home area of WV. The mountainsides were covered in full with Rhododendrons just bursting ready to bloom. As we drove, I couldn’t help think of where we were heading and why. I was going to visit the Mahanoy SCI (State Correctional Institute). I have visited prison institutes for almost 20 years now. Of all the work that I do as an author, speaker, and advocate, this work is probably the most enlightening. Like the snowstorm that blinded me upon leaving the facility, you truly never know what to expect. But there is one thing that I have found throughout the years, and it has always been true on every visit of every facility that I have ever done—and that is, that lives can be forever changed, no matter where they are. Often, I have shared with Mike that always there is “the look” when I speak to the inmates, whether male or female. There is a look of—“what can you tell me, you’re all cleaned up, how can you begin to understand or even know where I am at?” And in part, that is true. But there is a God who knows the depth of every single soul that was in that room-from staff to inmate. A God, that every single soul that was there, matters to. The most amazing thing whenever I see that look, and I have seen that look at every visit, of every facility, rehab, and re-entry program that I have ever attended, is that I get to witness the transaction that follows. I have visited a lot of facilities in the last 20 years, from here and across the state of PA, to FL, VA, maximum security in MD, Kauai and Maui. In my last visit to the Maui facility, I visited 13 cell blocks—it took me 3 days to do this. And yet even then, there was “the look”. The look of great brokenness and hopelessness, the look of what they feel is a great gulf between them and me. But then I get to see the transformation as a God that loves them, reaches out and touches them with a new hope, a hope that is tangible and breaths life and passion into every soul that dares to reach out, grab it, and believe. I see this transformation in so many of the souls. It is not for me to know all that God is doing before me, it is enough to know that he is doing it. So just as unpredictable as a snow blizzard is on April 18, so often is the God that cares for every one of us, and walks with us through all of our many lives, in season and out of season. My many thanks to James Flores, Corrections Counselor and the wonderful staff who arranged this visit and welcomed me in the kindest and warmest way.

We Can Make a Difference

published 4/14/2022

April Is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. I’ve often had people ask me, wonder if I report my suspicion of child abuse and I’m wrong? I answer them and say, “Wonder if you’re right?” The report is given anonymously and no one is hurt if there is no wrong being done. The greatest weapon that abuse can wield is “silence”. We can make a difference. My thanks to “Children’s Advocacy Centers of PA. for all the work they are doing and the children they are rescuing. Childline 1-800-932-0313 We can Heal. We can make a difference.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CcTQkfwAZpY/

Love Makes a Difference….

published 4/2/22

I was organizing the other day. Husband’s beware. And I ran across this stuffed animal that was my son’s when he was a little boy. His ragged bow hung limply. His stuffing was coming out his one side and he looked so very sad. In my hurry, I almost passed him by, but then I stopped and picked him up. He looked even more sad and was very limp as I held him in my hands. It was as if he was saying, I am worn. I serve no purpose. I have no hope, my yesterdays are gone. I stood holding him and smiled. I said out loud, “You don’t know the love you gave, the difference you made, the joy and comfort you brought. Do you know today that that little boy that loved you so much is now a wonderful father of eight children? He nurtures them and cares for them the way he did you. You taught him that. He comforts and brings joy to others as you brought to him.” Our seeds of love are never lost, they just grow and spring forward and produce more. We should never feel lost of purpose. We cannot let our loss of our past blind us of what lies ahead. We have more to give, it’s just our seasons change. There are still those who need a smile of encouragement, those who need a helping hand, those who need a hug to know that tomorrow the sun will shine and that it can’t rain forever. I held the stuffed puppy one more time and smiled. The memories flooded through my heart of another era, but it brought me joy and not sorrow. Joy in knowing that love never dies but continues in our heart with the seeds of love that are planted there. And now it is up to us to go forward and to touch the hearts of others. We must not sit in our closets feeling lost and forlorn, but take the love that has been given to us and rise up and fulfill all the purposes of our life that God has so freely given to us. It is this loving God, whom all our strength and purpose come. Surely, He who loves us the most will sustain us, guide us, fortify us, and lead us forward as lights in a darkened world that cries out for a brighter tomorrow. Be blessed dear friends.

How Could I Not See????

published 3/29/22

It’s very cold today. The wind is blowing and it is snowing, as if to convince me that I am still in the winter season. I look out my window and see the tall trees sway with power and force. But then I see very faintly, the brush of green, ever so lightly tinting the bushes. As I look closer, I see that the crocus’ have risen their tiny heads full of color. Then I see that the daffodils are blooming and in the distance the forsythia’s are in full color. How could I have missed these signs of the season? How could I have believed a lie that winter still had a hold on me? How could I not see???? We can become so blinded by the circumstances of our life; the hurt, the pain, the sorrow, and the confusion that we can miss the simple beauties that are in our midst. We can believe that the strong winds of life will always keep us hovering in the fear of what could be and in the pain of what we have lost. We can miss the signs of a new season that beckons us forward, by staying in a season that robs us of the promises of God. Oh, those promises, I see them every day—in the smiles of my grandchildren, in the sweet harmony of their birthday song to me over the phone, in the sweetness of my husband’s voice, in a friend’s card to me for comfort, in knowing that God’s presence walks with me through every season of life; loving me, protecting me and always revealing to me the reality of his presence. Be blessed my friends. (Marty)

My Momma~~

published 3/29/22

I walked down the halls that are all too familiar now. Amidst the swirling of my heart and mind, I cannot help noticing the pictures on the wall that remind me that Momma has been here before. The hospital feels cold and friendless as I walk towards Momma’s room as I have so many times. But today is different. Different in a way that I didn’t expect. I didn’t know that today would be the day that I would have to say goodbye to Momma. We had talked many times of this day, but neither one of us knew how to say goodbye. Sometimes, there are no words to really say goodbye. Momma, had a spirit, all her own. She wrote one time that her sister-Shirley had the stubbornness, that she had the temper, and her sister Joanie-patience. What she didn’t write was that she loved deeply. My mom had the capability of touching every single heart that she met and leaving an impact on them. She would be the first to tell you that she had made mistakes in her life, these she regretted the most. I know even before she passed, she tried to make sure that those she loved knew this. There is a peace in facing our giants and laying them at the feet of those we love. I believe my Momma did this. If you ever knew her, you knew she had the compassion of a lamb and the fire of a lion. She was quick to say she was sorry and to mean it, and she truly hated when she hurt someone’s feelings. She wrestled often with her lion and lamb—the lamb always won. My Momma was the one who loved us. She worked hard in a factory pressing 24 dozen garments a day. She bought all of our school clothes, Easter outfits, shoes and anything that we needed. I remember one time I asked her for a large box of Crayola crayons, which seems a simple thing. But for me, I wanted them terribly and I knew that she had very little money. She surprised me with them a week later. She took us for ice cream cones at the old Queen City Dairy, she popped popcorn and took us to the drive-in. She couldn’t afford to pay for all of us, so she had my brothers and step-brother jump in the trunk of the car while her, my step-sisters, and I sat in the car. I don’t remember the movie we saw that time, only the look on the surrounding people in their cars as we popped the trunk and the four boys tumbled out one by one. She took us swimming, made great chili-mac and runny fudge. Momma was the one that saw me struggling when I was thirteen. She stopped everything she was doing, took some vacation days off from work and just her and I went to Ocean City, MD. She knew I loved the ocean. Momma had all four of us by the time that she was 19 years old, so she kind of grew up with us. She played ball with us, hitting me squarely in the head with the bat accidentally when I was a kid. She bought me my first bike. She bought me my piano and made payments on it until it was paid. I still have that piano. I had a bad foot and she took me to doctors and rubbed it until it got better. I can remember her putting a cold cloth on my head when I was sick and a warm towel from the space heater stove on my ear when I had an earache. She loved to win. I mean really loved to win. Rarely, did I beat her at Rummy. She loved bingo and bowling,crossword puzzles, and writing poetry. I remember one time when I was very small I couldn’t sleep. I had my light still on and she came in and talked to me. She was not a religious person but knew the heart of a Jesus that loved. She told me she didn’t know how to pray but that she would pray with me that Jesus would help me. I remember her talking to me about the important things of life—to always be kind and never make fun of others, stand up for what is right, and to be more than what others thought you could be. I remember when I was 5, Pat was 6, Terry was 7 and Don was 8. (Don was glad he was not with us that day), we had bullied a boy. When Momma found out, she marched us down the hill, up another one, and right to the boys house and made us go to the door by ourselves and apologize. She told me when I had friends that were not good for me. She didn’t like my first boy-friend and she told me so-kindly with love. She adored my husband from the first day she met him until the day she died. She called him son. She told me things that she wished someone had told her. She had had a very hard life and always wanted more for us. She loved us without any motives or hidden agendas. She just loved us. She believed in every one of us. She loved the simple things of life. She loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved people and always wanted to hug everyone she met, whether they wanted to be hugged or not. I told her just the other day, “No, mom, you can’t hug the doctor.” She never could understand why people would refuse a hug.

Momma and me often had talks about her passing. I told her I didn’t know how I’d be able to deal with her not being here. She said to me, “I’ll always be with you “my baby”. We talked about heaven just a few weeks ago. I asked her how she felt about dying. She thought just a moment with that thoughtful look she’d get and then said, “I feel good about it.” And yet in the weeks to come I know she did some deep soul searching and confronted some issues that had long bothered her.

See, we all need to search our hearts. But not by our own-with God. We need to face the giants of our life-and we can do this with God, because He gives us Grace and Mercy—Grace saves us and Mercy keeps us. Grace was given to keep us from falling—and mercy was given to keep us when we do. Mercy is given not to justify us in our sins, but to deliver us out of our sin.

When, I remember mom, I will always remember what she said in one of her poems–

Memories are made of many things,

that marks the time gone by,

Some happy ones, sort of sear your brain,

and stay picturesque inside.

The sad ones will stay awhile,

then melt away with tears,

Which leaves us with the time gone by,

the most picturesque of years.

“The sad ones will stay only a while and then will melt away with tears.”

Her one grandson was able to tell her goodbye—He probably says it best. “I love you grandma—I’ll see you in heaven.”

Loved and sadly missed~~Your family

Fight the Good Fight….

published 1/29/22

My momma is 87 years old. She has been my friend, my defender, my encourager, my momma. Recently she was ill and I had to take her to the hospital. I had consulted with her doctors and we had done everything at home that we could possibly do. There was a great risk factor, in taking my momma to the hospital. A “simple” cold could kill her with her COPD. The Covid would be devastating. It was with great reluctance that my daughter and I took her to the ER. This is not the time, if at all possible, to have a loved one in the hospital. I truly commend those on the medical front lines who have bravely fought for our loved ones at great personal expense and for all you have suffered from the fallout of Covid. I had to wonder if many of you faithful workers have left a field that was not kind to you, in light of what happened to my momma. The medical field has changed drastically in a very short time. I hesitated to write this but felt it necessary. Now is the time for America to wake up, stand up, and claim the rights that we still have, before they are gone. I would encourage every person that if you have a loved one—DO NOT take them to the hospital UNLESS you are going to be there tirelessly to advocate for them and be very familiar with your Federal Patient’s Bill of Rights. You must be able to speak up, speak out, and not be afraid, or try to run a popularity contest, because you will meet with stronger opposition than you have ever known. When we got to the hospital, we learned that momma not only had COPD complications, but was in A-fib. You try to work with the health system, you try to weigh your words, to understand the impact that Covid has had on the medical community, and to be kind, but from the beginning there were things I did not understand and it didn’t take long before I had to speak up. Upon registering my mom, naturally, and rightfully so, a Covid test was done. I expected this….but not for the one registering her to declare that she was sure that momma had Covid before the test even came back and this to an 87 year old woman in A-fib. As she continued to say this over and over again, I stated that momma was not to be put into a Covid area until the test came back. Immediately, two attendants tried to wheel her into a Covid waiting room, wherein my daughter and I stood in the doorway and said no. As we waited in the hallway, an attendant went to take momma back to the ER. As, I went to go with her, I was told, “no,” that I couldn’t go back. I said to them, that IF the test came back positive, I would agree, but until the test came back, I was going to stay with her. They pushed back, but I stood firm. I also notified them that in the event that she did have Covid, I would take her home to treat her there, that she would not be admitted. The first Dr. that came to see her, a cardiologist, bucked heads with me immediately. I tried patiently to explain her medical history, but he continued to provoke and belittle both of us. His words were exactly, “When that Covid test comes back positive, and it will!!! You will DIE!!!! My remarks were civil–”You might want to wait until the test comes back”. But inside, the “hillbilly” Marty was telling him a thing or two. The next Dr. was not any different. He was as rude and abrupt as the first. He barraged us with Covid info, hammered us up one side and down the other-and then turned to me and asked, “So why are you here today?” I said, “because she is having a COPD flare-up.” He looked angrily at me, and then poised himself and said roughly, “I didn’t ask you for a diagnosis. I asked you why you are here!” The Covid test came back negative. Before momma was admitted, I discussed with the nurses and then the Dr. that momma was to be a full-code with the exception that she did not want the use of a Bi-pap mask or intubation (ventilator) as with her weakened lungs, doctors had already told us that either process could kill her. We went from bad to worse—the refusal to give her the blood thinner that she took daily which as a supplement from her pharmacy and doctor to prevent strokes; to refusal to give her, her rescue inhaler—stating it was “not evidence based ”, to no bath in 3 days, to a basketball size beginning of a bedsore within 2 days. Her finger was injured there and staff refused to do a MRI-I insisted-it showed an injured tendon. MRI’s and medicine adjustments declared to me that would be done on that day were not done until 3 days later, and only per my insistence on them doing what they had stated. The Physician’s Asst. had taken off and no follow-up. There were nurses who hung up on me, DNR (Do Not RESUSCITATE) bands put on momma’s arm against her wishes, and so many other life risk situations that were done that I made up reports and submitted them to the “Patient’s Advocate”.My momma is back home and working hard on recovery. She is worth every ounce of fight that I have in me. When it is God’s time, she will go home, eternally. We do not fight against death—we fight for life. Death is not a foe, but can even be a friend. But our God has the keys to death and hell. No one has the right to take those keys from God or a loved one who does desire to see the sun shine again. There will come a day, when momma will say, “I want to go home.” And I will hug her and say, “it’s alright momma, go home to Him who waits for you. I will meet you there someday.” Fight dear friends, warn the wicked, save the weak. Fight the good fight of faith!…..when you give him not warning, nor speak to warn the wicked from his wicked way,…. his judgment is required at our hand. Ezekiel 33:8

I Love Christmas….

01/04/2022

I love Christmas. For me it is all the goodness of God shining through to man, a ray of hope–a hope in a world that is gripped in fear. The other day I was decorating the trees. I have a memory tree that has every special ornament that I have ever received. And I have the village tree that my grandchildren adore. While decorating the village tree, I noticed that the church was actually named-Jeremiah’s Chapel. I thought this a strange name to call a chapel but I couldn’t help thinking of the great promise of hope that Jeremiah gave to all of us in Jeremiah 29:11. Jeremiah is often referred to as the “weeping prophet” and yet he says, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” I can’t help but think of the elderly man that I saw sitting in his car in the parking lot the other day. I noticed him because strangely enough the music was loudly coming from his car. It was an old traditional Christmas song. For a second our eyes met, he seemed a little embarrassed that I had seen him enjoying the song. My heart smiled. Christmas is not just for our children. Christmas is a symbol more than a day of the year. It is a symbol of a Hope that was born that day. A Hope that desires to resound in our hearts and let us know that we are never alone, even in the most sorrowful of times. I met a woman who worked in a store I frequent quite often. I often wondered why she was so solemn and never smiled. As I checked out with my goodies for the grandchildren and family, we began to talk for the first time. She told me that her husband often said to her, just buy what you want throughout the year for your Christmas present. The Lord checked my heart, I had caught that she used the word “said” in past tense. I gently asked her, “Has your husband passed?” A wave of sadness crossed her face erasing the terseness that I often had seen. She said, “He passed last year, right before Christmas.” My heart ached for her and she continued slowly, Christmas is not the same for me since the children are gone.” Again, God tugged at my heart and I asked her what had happened. I felt she needed to know that a stranger cared. I saw that same wave of sorrow sweep over her face once again. She said, “I lost both my son and daughter a few years ago in a car accident right before Christmas.” I wanted to hug her. A line was forming, and I could tell that she could say no more. I asked her what her name was and with a sad smile, she said, “Holly”. I told her I would pray for her and hoped that my eyes told her more than my words. I left the store with tears coming down my face. And then I thought, of all names, her name was “Holly”. I will remember Holly throughout this holiday season. And though, her Christmas will be unlike so many of ours, there are so many like her who are facing such great sorrow. As I continued to decorate the village tree, the words of the Christmas song playing in the distance seemed to awaken me, “yet in thy dark streets shineth, the everlasting light, the hopes and fears of all the years are met in THEE tonight. For Christ is born of Mary and gathered all above, while mortals sleep, the angels keep their watch of wond’ring love.” May the Hope that was born that day, give you love that you felt was gone, peace that comforts you, and a gift of joy that you are loved beyond measure. “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 Love and prayers~~~”Marty” Merry Christmas dear friends and may you know that you are so loved and appreciated.

published 12/11/21

Christmas is such a wonderful time to share. There is still time to order these books for great Christmas’ gifts. All can be personally autographed.

New Releases this year: Written and illustrated by Marsha Barth “Tony the Lonely Dandelion” -A children’s book for all ages on bullying. Who says a dandelion can’t be a beautiful flower? “Amazing Grace-Heaven’s Light”–An inspiring novel on the joys of heaven that awaits us and the reality of a God who truly loves every one of us. Full of mystery and intrigue. Wonder if heaven so surpasses all of what we have ever thought or dreamed about?

Also: “The Shattering-A Child’s Innocence Betrayed” and “The Shattering II-Breaking the Silence”–two true stories of inspiration and the joy of overcoming. We are more than victims—we are VICTORS!! Sincere blessings……Marsha (Marty) Barth

We Can Make a Difference…..

Published 10/31/21

Years ago, my husband and I ran our own business. We had a beautiful garden center and gift shop. We met thousands of wonderful people who more than customers, became our friends. One day, a family with a little boy came in to visit. I was very young at the time, but almost instantly my heart began to break for the little boy. It seemed that the parents were constraining to hold back their disdain and abuse for this child. They were ever so careful when they saw me watching. The body language, the few words said, their treatment of him said it all. But I felt I could do nothing. Still, I planned-when they checked out- that I would get their information via a credit card or check and see what I could do for the child, but they soon left. This troubled me often. I still think of him today. Today, I speak out for those who can’t. I recently had the opportunity to work with (CAC) Children’s Advocacy Center of Pennsylvania. I tell my story to help others. There is no fear or shame, or guilt or blame. My books-”The Shattering” and “The Shattering II” are my true story of how one thread of hope changed my life forever. They are stories of inspiration. We can go from victim to Victor. I marvel at all God has done in my life and thank Him for giving me this opportunity. We can make a difference!

Have You Not Heard?

published 10/29/21

Have You Not Known? How beautiful is the world we live in. It truly is. The beauty lies before us. It all depends on where we focus. I looked out the window this morning as I said a morning prayer. I hadn’t noticed that the leaves were changing from their rich green, to yellow blushed with orange, to bright red. How had I missed this beautiful change of season? Life is so full of the seasons of our life ever changing. I watched as a gentle wind brought the leaves floating through the air ever so gently. They floated through the air as if welcoming the change. Their vibrant colors danced across the yard, some twirling, some skipping, all as if rejoicing that another season was being beckoned. Change is not a bad thing. It can make us mount up higher, on eagles wings, to flights that we would have never taken on our own. I read a beautiful scripture the other day and it has been a word of strength to me. (mlb) Have you not known? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, the Lord, The Creator of the ends of the earth, Neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the faint, And to those who have no might He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall, But those who wait on the Lord Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint.

What Do You Do When You Can’t Go and You Can’t Stay???

published 10/20/21

The first time I ran away as a kid, I was probably about five years old. My oldest brother had shot my grandpap in the forehead with a glob of mud from his pop gun. He talked all three of us into running away from home with him so he wouldn’t get into trouble. You can probably guess how that turned out. But on a more serious note, I actually did run away from home when I was about sixteen years old. Things had gotten really bad with my dad’s drinking and it looked like my dad and stepmother were going to separate for good. So, I decided that I had no choices. I only knew that I couldn’t stay at home. My brothers were grown and had left home. I knew that I couldn’t live alone with my dad and endure his abuse. It is hard for people to understand the dynamics and impact that abuse has on any person, even more so a child. The fear of the unknown, not knowing what to do, what choices to make, or even what choices are available, seem overwhelming and can completely debilitate the person, putting them in a state of shock, paralyzing them with doubts and fears.

Many of you know that I am an author, speaker and advocate. Recently, I submitted a workshop for the Pathways for Victim Services Virtual Conference and was selected to present it at this conference. This is a free virtual conference to any one who wants to attend and is presented by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency-Office of Victims’ Services. Registration must be completed by October 21, 2021 for the sessions desired to attend. The conference runs from October 26-October 28. I present my workshop–”Going from Victim to Victor” on Tuesday, October 26 at 9:15-10:00 a.m.

It is my goal to provide a workshop to advocacy communities to better understand the victims’ perception and perspective in order to lead them to the resources that will enable the victim to become whole again in all aspects of their lives. Please see the attached flier for more information or visit the website at

https://na.eventscloud.com/ereg/index.php?eventid=622518&

All are welcome.

A Still Small Voice…..

published 10/19/21

Selection from book “Amazing Grace…Heaven’s Light” by Marsha Barth

A Still Small Voice…..There are voices that we need to hear, but so often we cannot hear them because of the noise around us that drowns them out. Sometimes, we may not hear them because it is not what we want to hear. But if we desire to listen, we can hear, we can speak, and we can make a difference. I was blessed to speak and be a part of The Voices Conference in York, PA. My sincere thanks to Pastor Vince Wood, Providence Presbyterian Church, and Delilah Rumburg for this opportunity, their kindness, and hospitality.“And behold the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces…but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire…..a still small voice…..” 1 Kings 19:11-12 “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

We Fly Again…….

published 9/26/21

I saw a beautiful monarch butterfly the other day in the strangest place, on the pavement in a parking lot. He was trying desperately to fly but couldn’t. I reached down, thinking he would surely fly away, but he couldn’t. I picked him up gently by his wings and placed him on top of the garbage can. I thought the height would help him to lift off better. It was only then that I noticed that he only had one wing. I felt very sad that something so beautiful and with such a profound destiny would never fly again. A few days later, I was outside and as I came in the back door, startled, I saw a big walking stick. He began to cautiously walk away. He was so agile. I was fascinated by him. He truly looked like a wooden stick walking by itself. As he walked, I clearly noticed that he had only 5 legs. I counted them several times, thinking one must be tucked behind the other, but there were only 5 legs. I stood watching him. There was no limp, no imbalance, he was steady and sure and seemed totally unabated as he continued on. An interesting fact that I didn’t know at the time is that walking sticks can often regenerate a limb that is missing. However, an adult butterfly that is fully formed cannot grow and won’t heal and probably will never fly again. Many would think that the butterfly has missed their destiny and that their life is valueless but in reality if the butterfly is female and has already mated, she could still lay eggs and fulfill a great purpose and likewise a male could still fulfill a valuable purpose in mating. Our destinies are not determined by the expectations of what others think we should be. Our destinies are determined by what God’s purposes are for our life. We never get too old to fulfill our destiny and God-given purposes. I like to help the broken and shattered. Like the butterfly and the walking stick it doesn’t matter if they are missing a wing, or a leg. I see the beauty in what they can be. Sometimes, they just need a chance. Sometimes, a tender touch, a kind word, an act of love, mercy, or even a strong dose of truth can save the broken and shattered if we are willing to just reach down and lift them up out of the danger and help them to see their full potential. I am blessed and have totally enjoyed working with the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Pennsylvania this year. The other day they sent me a poster that they had made from the blog that I had written for them.

https://www.instagram.com/childadvocacypa/

https://penncac.org/marsha-shines/

https://www.facebook.com/ChildAdvocacyPA

The work that they are doing will rescue many children who’s wings seemed to have been clipped. Little do the children know that they will fly again-soar to the highest heights, because someone reached out to care and made a difference.

Never Give Up Hope……..

published 9/13/2021

https://www1.cbn.com/investing-god%E2%80%99s-family%E2%80…https://youtu.be/Hpn4f_DVbtw

I was raised in Wiley Ford, WV. Every Sunday, my brothers and I walked up the mountain to attend the little church that sat at the top of the hill. Many years have passed, and yet every day, I still see the hand of God fulfilling the many promises that He gave to me when I was that small child. Never give up hope. Always know that Jesus is the solution and never the cause. I have had requests for the link to the CBN 700 Club Interview that my son and his wife did. There are so many more stories in this one—the night I held my son in my arms when he was only 4 and he wasn’t breathing; the diagnosis that said he had a medical condition that required medicine that could make him sterile; that he should have been brain damaged from the lack of oxygen that night, and instead went on to score the first perfect math PSAT ever in his Junior High, to a perfect math SAT in ninth grade-the first in the history of his High School. He married his Missy and they so wanted a child but it never happened. Six years went by and nothing the doctors suggested worked—but then God…..Now they have 8 children. And there are so many miracles—not because of us, or our might or power-but because of the faithfulness of a God that loves us and that we all truly matter to. Here is their story……..

God’s Goodness Always Shines…….

published 9/13/21

To our friends and loved ones…Just had to share this event… Our son, wife and grandchildren will appear on The 700 Club tomorrow….

We lost our son at 4 years old when he quit breathing-but God gave him back to us. Both him and our daughter have been our greatest blessings in life, along with our dear Missy and our 10 grandchildren-8 of whom are Mike and Missy’s. Mike and Missy and our grandchildren will appear on the 700 Club tomorrow, Monday, September 13, for an interview and testimony of God’s goodness in their lives. The 700 Club airs on the channels–“Freeform” and also “TBN”. Cable channels vary so time slots may vary. We rejoice in the multitude of goodness that God has shown in our lives, our children’s, and our precious grandchildren.

Truth Sets Us Free….

published 9/5/21

“The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them.” Ida B. Wells

Many of you know from reading my books…”The Shattering” and “The Shattering II”, that I have three older brothers. I am the youngest and the only girl. When we were little, we did everything together. We were inseparable. We got the measles together, we hiked together, played army and marbles together, and even football. I remember one time, the four of us got together as we so often did and made a vow to each other. Actually, it was a vow to God. People do not always take vows seriously these days—to each other-and sadly to God. But at nine years old, I took this very seriously. We each put our hand on a Bible that we had received from Sunday School and vowed to God that we wouldn’t tell a lie. It scared me to death. So much so, that I drove my brothers nuts adding a “maybe” to every question they asked me. There is a beauty in TRUTH, though. Truth-truly sets us free. Telling the truth as a child reminded me of our visits to the South Branch of the Potomac where we swam. I’d step into the water and the cold water would just chill me to the bone. I’d inch out little by little until I couldn’t stand it anymore and finally I’d say-”what the heck”-and I’d just dive into the water. Truth is like this. Just jump right into it—it may chill you at first-but there is something invigorating when you speak truth—it truly sets you free. I am involved in working with advocacy against abuse. We have a long way to go to help those who live in fear and terror with their abuse—especially children. We cannot help, unless we speak truth and face these issues. No longer can we wrap truth in a garment of taboo and just hope that it will go away. I recently had an opportunity to work with “Children’s Advocacy Centers of Pennsylvania”. This organization’s mission to help the children, reaches across the whole state of Pennsylvania. Their intervention is rescuing many children and enabling them to heal, giving them a hope-that truth can set them free. I was asked to share my story on their site and the work that I am doing. Here is the link to their site. https://penncac.org/marsha-shines/ Truth does set us free—and we can go from Victim to Victor!!! God Bless…….Marty

Never Waste a Wish-maker…..

published 8/28/21

When I was very young we called them fairies, later when I was older they were just wish-makers. I sat on the glider under one of my favorite trees the other day. I hadn’t had a chance to do this all summer. A gentle warm breeze brushed past me as I read the final draft of “Amazing Grace: Heaven’s Light”. I was on a deadline to finish it so it could get to the printers. Suddenly and unexpectedly, it floated right into my hand, out of nowhere. It was a fuzzy white wish-maker. I quickly clamped my hand around it. One should never waste a wish-maker. I put the book down and opened my hand slowly as if a child revealing some great treasure. I closed my eyes and I was eight again. I made a special wish, adding extra “ands” to it and then sat and pondered the special things that God brings into our lives. God seems to have a special way to take us away from the whirlwind of life, its demands, and the gotta get done things that can press us so. I looked around me and saw the flowers that still bloomed, as others faded in these last days of summer. I heard the birds singing, making beautiful music for any that would listen. I watched as a butterfly fleeted from bush to bush as if it was dancing in the sunlight. The aromas of late summer filled the air with a beautiful fragrance. Oh, the simple joys of life that are always before us. Oh, the precious still voice of God that talks to our heart when we take a moment to hear it. I sat and thought of my grandchildren who I had gotten to spend some time with the last few weeks. I heard their laughter, their voices asking me questions, their smiles that are etched in my heart forever. God is so good. He opens doors that cannot be closed. He closes doors that cannot be opened. He is a steadfast hope that will never fail us and will always lead us forward. I have a desire in my heart to spread that “Hope” in any way that I can on my journey of life. I am blessed to have “Amazing Grace: Heaven’s Light” go to print. My thanks to Robert D. Reed Publishers for their support and belief in this work. They enable me to spread that “Hope” that is so very real. It will be released in a few weeks.

I was also blessed to go into our local prison with my dear friend Theresa Johnson. This is the first time since the Covid Pandemic, a year and a half, that the prisons were able to open their doors for us to safely visit. Our thanks to Marilyn Nolte, Chaplain at the Lebanon Correctional Facility for this opportunity. It is the “Hope” that is planted in the inmates hearts that drives us forward. To see our Jesus touch their hearts and give them a hope in the midst of what is probably the darkest season of their lives fills us with joy and victory. We truly are more than conquerors. Every single one of us can walk this blessed path and become “Victors”. Love you my dear friends……

A Still Small Voice…..

published 7/18/21

The other day I was with my mom. This alone is a precious moment for me because she is almost 87 years old. We had a very busy day as I wanted to help her with some things while I was in to visit with her. Her health has been bad and all of the family has been pulling together and helping out. I was actually on the phone and she was driving. She actually is still a good driver and needs her independence. I do wear my seat belt though. While on the phone, she turned to me and said, “Marty, Marty, look, there are our clouds.” I barely heard her because I was taking care of the things that needed to be done. But I did hear her. I will forever, all of my days, smile when I see clouds that are purest white and puffy like cotton candy and etched in the bluest of blue skies. They will always be precious to my heart and I will always hear my mamma’s voice saying—”Look Mart, there are our clouds.” We must always never let the busy-ness and necessities of this life that demands so very much of us—rob us of the preciousness of what life is truly all about. We search for love, joy, hope, peace, encouragement and times of refreshing, but so often we find these in God’s still small voice. “And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice.” I Kings 19:11-12.

A Need to Be Loved….

published 5/25/21

Had a wonderful opportunity to speak at Providence Presbyterian Church to a lovely group of women. Many years ago, when my grandson was very small, I asked him if he wanted to go for a walk in the woods with me. He looked up at me with those beautiful big blue eyes and said, “No, MaMaw.” I asked him why, and he again looked up at me, his eyes wider than ever. He hesitated and then said as if divulging a secret, “There’s monsters in the woods, MaMaw.” I would’ve never laughed at his fear but my heart was so touched. I said, “Honey, there are no monsters in MaMaw’s woods-Jesus wouldn’t let any monsters be in her woods.” But he shook his head slightly and again looked up at me and then earnestly said, “There are MaMaw, because Renee told me there were.” Renee was his little friend. I said, “How about you take my hand, and we’ll walk in the woods, and I’ll show you there are no monsters in the woods.” He did not hesitate to take my hand. We walked through the woods holding each others hand, not missing a single trail, and then back out into the yard once again. He looked at me as if surprised. “See,” I said, “MaMaw told you there were no monsters in the woods.” I will always treasure that look of trust and that sweet smile that gleamed from his tiny face. You see, we are not any different. We too, in this life, have often feared the monsters in our woods. But all it takes is for us to reach out and take our Savior’s hand and walk with Him. He will show us that there are no monsters in our woods and that truly we can trust Him to keep us. We all have a need to be loved and a need to give love. It is in the cleft of the rock, under the shadow of His wings that we find comfort, love, and trust for the path that we must walk in this life. My sincere thanks to Laura Cowburn, Robin Wood, Brittany Wood and all of the wonderful women at Providence Presbyterian Church who arranged this event and made me feel so welcome. God Bless….and always know you are loved and that you matter.

Climb That Mountain…..

published 5/16/21

I told a friend the other day that mountains are hard to climb, but the view is always best from up there. The question always remains—will we climb the mountain? Will we persevere when the paths of life seem too steep to climb??? Will we walk onward when the goal seems too hard to reach??? Will we look upward from whence comes our help and our redemption draws nigh??? Giving up is never an option. We have too much to gain to lose. Had a wonderful time of refreshing, meeting new friends, and sharing the Word together at the “Bloom Where You Are Planted” Seminar.

Bloom Where You Are Planted….

published 5/13/2021

Have you ever noticed that trees don’t have feet???? There is a beauty in being planted. Only things that are planted can bring forth blossoms and fruits. We can’t grow or bloom if we are not anchored. What are you anchored in??? Do you desire to bloom???? “What shall separate you from being planted in the Love of Jesus—shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword—shall discouragement, doubts, fears, anger, hurt, unforgiveness, pain and sorrow? No, for in all of these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans: 8:35-39

All welcome to come join us in this great day of fellowship and encouraging word!!!

This Is How We Fight Our Giants……..

published 4/19/21

Many of my friends who know me often ask me how things are going? Some days~~not wanting to complain~~and not wanting to lie, I wasn’t sure how to answer them. So, I began to answer them with a smile~~”Slaying Dragons”. I always enjoyed their responses that varied greatly. Some look puzzled, while others smiled broadly and nodded, understanding. We all have dragons to slay, giants to bring down. But we cannot do this ourselves. We need to know how to slay our giants. For my local friends~~you are welcome to join us (Women’s Meeting) this evening at Faith Fellowship Church at 6:00 to hear more on “This is How We Fight our Battles”…721 E Penn Ave, Cleona, PA 17042 (717) 274-1350Phone: (717) 274-1350

Through the Eyes of a Child…..

published 4/6/2021

Have you ever looked into the eyes of a child??? They tell you everything. You can see to the depths of their very soul; every emotion of love, sweetness, fear, hurt, pain, joy, anger. They hide nothing. When I look into the eyes of my grandchildren, I see a whole new world. I see their dreams for tomorrow. I see their fears of the dark. I see their mischievous twinkle. I see their love way before I feel the hugs. They light your heart with a newness of life that seems to flow from heaven itself. There is such truth in that we must become as these little children to even enter heaven. Our children are our most precious legacy. So how can anyone hurt a child???? There is never any acceptable reason.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Every time you are even just suspicious of a child being abused—report it. Call 1-800-4ACHILD (1-800-422-4453) The first question I always get asked in reporting suspected child abuse is-”But what if I’m wrong?” My answer to them is “But what if you are right?” Always err for the child’s cause. Reporting is anonymous, and is based on suspicion, not facts. Each case is investigated and if there is no abuse—no one is hurt. But how many children are hurt and would be rescued if just one adult would make that call. Our children were never meant to be scapegoats for the fallout of the adults’ problems. Did you know that in a household where there is multiple cases of domestic violence that the child’s risk of abuse is at 100% and at 150% greater risk for sexual abuse? These are statistics that make us want to look the other way. But I ask you—don’t look away—look into the eyes of the children you see—at the store, on the playground—at school—at church—at the ball games. Their eyes will tell us—but are we listening????

I was thankful to be able to participate in an interview for Children’s Advocacy Centers of Pennsylvania on March 15, 2021. My sincere thanks to Rebecca Buckham, Communications Manager, for this opportunity to be a part of this filming and project.

Be Encouraged….Never Give Up…..

published 2/5/21

“Tony the Lonely Dandelion….”

published 1/11/2021

I have a soft spot in my heart for children. Maybe it is because a part of me has never grown up. Bullying is not a new thing, if truth were to be told. I wonder how many of us would answer yes, if asked if you were ever bullied. Earlier in 2020, I felt God lead me to pull out a book that I had written for my children, many years ago, when they were toddlers. I can still remember the day that I was given a “beautiful” dandelion as a gift of love. The excitement that was shared over this one poor little dandelion still makes my heart smile to this day. Oh the love that radiated from this one precious treasure that my children had found, and the joy that their little hearts experienced in giving it to me as a gift. Hence, “Tony the Lonely Dandelion” was born. I don’t know when, in looking back, that it clicked, that most of the characters in this book, I could identify. I can only say that in doing the reviews I definitely could place almost every character in the book to a person in my childhood. Strangely enough, one of the main characters in the book, had a profound impact on me. Long after I had drawn the characters, and upon doing the many reviews, it hit me one day who “Mr. Gruff” was in the book. I looked at the picture and smiled to myself, and said, “oh my goodness, that’s Mr. Waggley”. Mr. Waggley, was my seventh grade teacher. It is a very sad thing when you think about it, that honestly in my lifetime, I have never talked to any of my childhood friends and heard anyone speak fondly of Mr. Waggley. You would think that someone along the way would have had a kind word to say about a teacher that had the potential to impact so many lives. But I never have heard of any encouraging remarks. I can remember the seventh grade particularly. It was a very hard year for me. There were a lot of things happening in our family at that time. Back then, the teachers used to call out our test grades in front of the whole class. I usually did okay on my tests and this didn’t bother me for myself so much. But, I would always cringe and hurt for the friends that had their grades called out in front of the whole class and so often were humiliated. I knew, even then, how it tore away their dignity and stamped an element of identity on them that just was not true. On one of my first experiences in Mr. Waggely’s class, I can remember him going down the list alphabetically and calling out our test scores. When he got to “Layton” (which is my maiden name), he stopped and paused. I could feel my face get red as I waited for him to continue. My mind raced in embarrassment as I wondered if I had messed up on the test. He then continued, “Layton, 98. You must have lucked out or studied awfully hard.” I remember feeling a flood of relief and anger fill my heart all at the same time as he nonchalantly continued down the list. I can remember thinking, “So a Layton is just lucky to get a good test score. A Layton has to study hard to get a good test score. So a Layton is just stupid and will never amount to anything?” This was a hard blow on top of everything else that was going on in my life. I remember to this day saying in my heart, “I will show you who a Layton is. I will ace every test and show you what a Layton can do!” And I did. I got mostly A’s and B’s in his classes and he was a very hard teacher. Because I had found my identity in a Jesus who loved me, I was able to stand up to him in my heart. So when I looked at the picture of Mr. Gruff in the book one day, I was shocked. I thought, Mr. Gruff is Mr. Waggely. He even looks like Mr. Waggely. And as Mr. Gruff tells Tony in the book, “You are just a weed! You will never be anything more than a weed. You can’t be a beautiful flower. Just accept that you are a weed.” But you see, we are so much more; so very much more. Whether you are a lonely broken child, or a lonely broken adult, you are more….more than just a weed….you are fearfully and wonderfully made. You are the apple of God’s eye. You are a King’s kid. I received my copies of “Tony the Lonely Dandelion” this week! I was surprised yesterday to unexpectedly sell 12 copies. My thanks to everyone who continues to support me with their love and encouragement as I do this ministry. Please feel free to contact me if you are interested in obtaining a signed copy. It is also available and can be ordered at any bookstore or through Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08P3LGKZM God Bless my dear friends. Always remember– you are so much more, and that God loves you, and He has a special plan for your life.

“A Night to Remember”……

published 12/24/2020

A small child looked up into his father’s eyes. He said not a word as he continued to peer deeply into his eyes. It seemed to the boy that surely all of the secrets of the world lay somewhere hidden in the depths of his father’s soul. The child lovingly reached up and gently touched his father’s face. The father smiled, his eyes steadily fixed on his son. But then he saw the boy’s expression change as it grew much more serious. His tiny brow furrowed with concern as if in deep thought. He slowly took his son’s hands into his own and held them lovingly and waited for his son to speak. “Daddy,” the boy began slowly, “What is Christmas?” The father began to speak, but stopped to pause. He continued to look into his young son’s eyes, full of wonder and thought. He wanted to tell him about how every question of our heart was answered on that first Christmas. He wanted to tell him of the hope that the Savior’s birth gave us, of the doubts and fears of young parents who knew not what to do or where to go, about shepherds who saw angels, and wise men led by a star. But he knew that his son had heard the story of Christmas and that he was asking him of something more, something much deeper. The father smiled down at his small son and began to speak softly, “Christmas is a night to remember.” The boy looked in earnest as his dad continued… “Christmas is hope when your night turns to day. Christmas is light that will show you the way. Christmas is peace when your heart fills with fear. Christmas is truth to know that He’s near. Christmas is strength when we feel we shall fall Christmas is grace who hears when we call. Christmas is courage when doubt rushes in Christmas is mercy that saves us from sin. Christmas is all, of these things above. Christmas is joy in knowing His love.” The little boy sat quietly and took in the words of his father that he so loved and trusted. He looked up, deep into his eyes once again, and then softly said, “It’s a night to remember, daddy, isn’t it?” The father put his arm around his little boy and gave him a hug. “Yes, son, it is a night to remember.”

“Tony the Lonely Dandelion”…….

published 12/9/2020

SOON TO BE RELEASED…..Excited that “Tony the Lonely Dandelion” is now being published…. Soon to be released. My thanks to Shannon Peduto, M.Ed., Executive Director of The Luzerne County Child Advocacy Center for a wonderful endorsement and my wonderful Publishers-Bob and Cleone Reed, “Robert D Reed Publishers”, for always believing in me!

The Flowers Are Still Blooming……..

published 11/20/2020

It’s a funny thing how life can spin us at times. There is only so much that our minds can focus on at one time. Not long ago, I was walking out of the hospital from visiting my mom, and there beside me as I walked was a row of beautiful white blooming begonias. I thought, Wow!, the flowers are still blooming, though every morning felt like fall. The trees were then just starting to change their colors, loosing their deep green hues and turning to the light faded green with hints of orange color starting to blush the scenery. My mind had not been focused on the ushering in of fall, or even saying goodbye to summer. Seasons of our life are continually changing. There is an uncertainty in the changes of the seasons of our lives; especially, this year, with all of its underlying problems. But so often it isn’t the season that we are in that is important. What matters is that the flowers are still blooming. And even when they cease to bloom, and the cold chills us to the bone, we must remember—that they will bloom again. Amidst our lives that spin so fast, past the problems that overwhelm us, to the joys that flowers still bloom in our midst; there is a peace that truly does pass understanding as we walk with a God, who hears our cry, knows our heart, and always causes the flowers to bloom again. Be blessed dear friends and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

copyright marsha barth2020

Sinking Sand……….

published 11/5/2020

We are in perilous times. The danger is not that we are in these perilous times, but that we don’t realize that we are in them. There is an old song that I love to sing, “My hope is built in nothing less than Jesus love and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus name. On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand. All other ground is sinking sand.” America, whether we realize it or not, “is setting in the balance and found wanting”– Daniel 5:27. In times past, when kings would rise up and tear town the groves where man served himself and his false gods; where they killed their own children in sacrifice; then with these torn down, their country would prosper, and God would be their God. But when the kings would rise up and rebuild their groves of idols and self, their country would fall once again. So often we can’t see past the injustices that are before us, and it robs us of our hope when righteousness fails to reign. But righteousness must reign in the heart, not in man’s devices and standards. Maybe that is what we have truly lost sight of. We seem to think that our country can be fixed by man and this is what has lead us to where we are today. We want everything to be fixed, without us tearing down the evil that has come to overtake our country and our lives. Yes, we need leaders that can lead us by proclaiming that we are still one nation under God, not gods; that we cannot allow our children to be killed for any reason. The ways of man are just not enough and we must not lose sight of the true hope amidst the chaos and turmoil of today. Maybe that is where we are truly lost; that we must not look to any man to fulfill our destiny but to the God of our salvation who created our destiny. Our destiny is too great to be defiled or destroyed by man, but it can be defiled and destroyed if we lose sight of the One that is our hope. My hope is built on nothing less…..than Jesus blood and righteousness….I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus name. On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand…All other ground…is sinking sand. “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14. There is no other way.

copyright marsha barth 2020

Slaying the Dragons…..

published 11/1/2020

My husband has often expressed to me that “He could lock me in a closet and that trouble would still find me.” He asked me one time, “Has it always been like that or only since you married me?” I had to laugh because I had actually thought about that. I told him, truthfully even from birth, it has always been that way. Like unknown to me at birth, I was born with two separate blood types; a separate A blood type and also a separate AB blood type. They call it a chimera factor; very rare blood but fortunately very healthy blood. It seem all of my life that I have “fought dragons” and that’s okay. Maybe that is why I get so passionate in standing up for what is right. I had a person say to me one time when I was in a particular battle. “Why are you doing this? You cannot personally gain anything from this and you have much more to lose than to ever win.” I answered, “Because it is right.” And then I asked them a question, “When does standing up for right depend on what we gain or lose?” Now more than ever as I see the election approach, my heart is very troubled. Not about the battle of who thinks that they are right. But about the battle of what is right. What is right according to God’s word, not society’s standards? We have grown cold as a society, aloof, biblical speaking-”Lukewarm”. This is the most dangerous place that our “America” has ever been. We are at the threshold, a crossroad of where our nation will either go right or left. Isn’t it strange that the two parties are even called-right and left. We must not vote personality but principle. I have not received any fliers from the one party even listing his stand on abortion. Why is the issue of 60,000,000 babies dying not an issue important enough to make it to his flier? What about free speech? What about simply receiving unbiased reporting of the truth? What about our constitution, our liberties, our right to bear arms and so much more? What about one nation “under God”? Are we to lay all of these issues aside and become the Laodicea society that God has warned us against? “As for me and my house, I will serve the Lord.” It is time for us rise up and slay the dragons……

copyright marsha barth 2020

Mercy and Truth Walk Hand in Hand…..

published 10/31/2020

Many of you know that I do advocacy work. The stories of brokenness are too vast sometimes to even imagine. “It is in mercy and truth that iniquity is purged.” We must be able to have mercy to those who are suffering, regardless of the reasons or their choices that may have gotten them there. At the same time we must be able to present truth. Neither mercy or truth can be compromised. My husband heard the other day a person state that they are against abortion but will vote for the candidate who supports abortion because of the “other issues”. What issue can supersede the value of 60,000,000 babies that have died due to that type of reasoning? I am reminded of the Israelites in the Bible who kept enough of God to pacify their conscious and then sneaked away to the hidden groves to worship and sacrifice for their “other issues”, their other gods. When there was a king that would tear down these hidden groves of men’s hearts, the nation of Israel would flourish, only to have it fall again when another king would allow the groves to be rebuilt. “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” But we think we are above this today. “There are other issues to consider,” we say. We feel that we can modernize God’s word and that surely God will just have to understand. One of the things that upset God the most during that time was the non-chalet sacrificing and killing of their children by the people as they justified their actions as necessary; actions that appeased their desires, their goals, their other issues. Surely they thought, God would just have to understand. We have fallen asleep and with our lackadaisical mentality accepted that everything today is okay. We have become the church of Laodicea– “I know thy works, that you are neither cold nor hot: I would you were cold or hot. So then because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew you out of my mouth.”(Rev. 3:15-16). “How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation?” (Heb. 2:3-4) Mercy and truth were given to us to deliver us out of our sin, not to justify and comfort us in our sin. “It is in mercy and truth that iniquity is purged.”(Proverbs 16:6) (2 Chronicles 7:14).

copyright marsha barth 2020

What Would You Do???

published 10/26/2020

If today you heard of a family that was very dysfunctional; the mother had lost her first child in her first marriage shortly after birth. She remarried into a second marriage. Her husband was an alcoholic and was known to be physically abusive to the children. Only three of the seven children that they had ever lived to adulthood. Their first child a boy died 6 days after birth. Another child a girl died before she was a year old. Another a boy died at the age of 2 years old and another little girl died at 1 year old. One that did live to adulthood died of tuberculosis. The mother died young of tuberculosis also. The father was suspected of having syphilis and was thought to have passed it congenitally down to his many children. The question is often asked—should this family, somewhere along the line, considered aborting the pregnancies due to these many circumstances and complications??? The answer that has surprised so many is that had this been done—then our remarkable Beethoven would have been murdered. Let me expound and comfort any person that has ever had an abortion. I had a dear friend who had a horrible time every year at the anniversary of the death of her aborted child. This is not an article of condemnation but an article to encourage all of us to take a stand, take action, and remember the 60,000,000 children that have been killed since abortion was legalized. Did you know that abortion would be the number one cause of death in the United States every year, if counted? In 2017 there were more abortions (862,300) than deaths due to heart disease at (647,457) and more than those who died with cancer (647,457). There are more abortions performed every year in America (862,300) than combat deaths in all of our wars put together from 1775-2019 (656,482). If we observe a 15-second moment of silence for each child killed by abortion, it would take us 28 years. So, I have to ask you—what would you do????? But you say, I do not support abortion….but will you vote for someone, anyone, who stands by the law to abort children? Why? Because you like their personality better?? Because, you believe they will help the economy better?? Because…… Why??? What could be a reason that could supersede the taking of a life of a child??? I can’t help wonder about what those 60,000,000 children would have become. Would one had found the cure for cancer, or have been another Billy Graham, an Einstein, or a Beethoven?? “For there is now no condemnation in Christ Jesus…..Suffer the little children to come unto me…” I am attaching the baby pictures of my children and grandchildren in honor of life…..Please feel free to share this and attach pictures of your children in remembrance and support of life. Again, I ask, what will you do???????

A Bouquet of Flowers………

published 10/10/2020

*Tony the Lonely Dandelion -to be published soon….*

Today I had the privilege of watching my grandsons play sports. We went from soccer game to soccer game and then went to baseball. I so enjoyed watching all of them play. Many of you know that I have nine grandchildren—eight boys and 1 girl. So as the older ones played their sports, I got to enjoy the younger ones also. Savannah, came to me at one point and handed me what she thought was the most beautiful flower she could find and said, “MeMaw, plant it when you get home.” I smiled and told her that it was just beautiful. Her brother Matthew said, “It is the wish flower. You blow it and make a wish and it comes true. Make a wish, MeMaw.” They went to find more but it is very hard to find a “blooming dandelion” in the fall. I had to smile in my heart, for many years ago, my son and my daughter had also thought that the most beautiful flower to give their mommy was a “dandelion”. It was then that I first wrote, “Tony the Lonely Dandelion”, which will be published soon. I am convinced that every small child sees the beauty of the dandelion. I am also convinced that they see the beauty of the world way beyond what we see. They don’t base the value of what they see on what they hear from others. They do not know that a dandelion is a weed, because the beauty that they see determines its value. So often, that is what happens to all of us. We hear we are just a weed, we could never be a beautiful flower, we could never be of value. Many, all of their life, have heard and been told what they can’t do, and many were told that they would never be anything. They are told they are just a weed, and that they can never be a lovely daisy, a beautiful tulip, or a lovely rhododendron. They grow up being bullied and feeling so often that they really are a weed, and that they truly do not matter. You are so much more than what people have told you that you are. Through the eyes of a child, truth is so often revealed—“Here MeMaw, take it home and plant it.” Yea, MeMaw, blow it and make a wish and it will come true.” And Jesus said, “Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 18:3

Wonder If…..

published 9/11/2020

Wonder if…..Come join us for this great conference…..Tomorrow from 9-12 psu.zoom.us/j/93034521294 or Live Streaming on Facebook: facebook.com/Something-Beautiful-107114554414799 Wonder if tomorrow we would wake up and things would be back to normal? Wonder if we’d just fall back into the old routines?? Wonder if we could have back just one yesterday?….With a loved one passed, to retract one angry word, to forgive another? Wonder if we could begin to put our past behind us and to go truly forward??? We can!!! Join us for this time of refreshing; a time to gain ground, a time to go forward……….

copyright marsha barth 2020

We Walk by Faith not By Feelings……

Published 9/11/2020

All Welcome—Come join us in this free on-line conference…Sept. 12, 9:00a.m-12:00p.m…

One of my dearest friends who was like a sister to me passed away last year. We knew each other from about the time we were 6 years old. My “Pammy” was one of the dearest people that I have ever known.She was a wonderful Christian. We laughed together, cried together and shared infinite wisdom. We knew each other so well that we could share everything and anything. We often shared the good and bad of our childhood. One day as we were sharing, I very kindly spoke to her about the issue of anger. Anger, that nasty word that none of us want to be associated with, or have any acclaim to. But the truth about anger is that when we are hurt or feel pain, the first emotion that will usually rise to the surface is anger. But as Christians, we declare vehemently that we do not have anger. That day as I mentioned the issue of anger and the danger of it, Pam had a ready answer for me. She said, “I don’t have anger, Marty! It’s righteous indignation.” I took a deep breath and then said, “No, Pammy. It is anger, not righteous indignation.” We would often laugh and talk about that story and laugh at the truth of it all. We are living in a time that is calling us all to go forward-to lay aside the weight and sin that so easily besets us-to come together with one mind, one accord, and a unity of spirit. We must know Truth, do away with Excuses, and take Action.This conference will be great time of fellowship and word. I ask you to come to TEA (Truth-Excuses-Action) and join us in this conference. We are more than conquerors! We are Victors! Join us on Zoom: psu.zoom.us/j/93034521294 or Live Streaming on Facebook:

facebook.com/Something-Beautiful-107114554414799

copyright marsha barth 2020

We’re Connected……..

published 9/3/2020

The other week I was blessed to get to spend some time with all of my grandchildren. There is nothing more precious to me than being a part of their lives. To watch these dear children grow into these wonderful people, brings me a joy that only a grandparent can know. They say the most profound things in their childlike manner and so often I pause to consider who really is learning from whom. Many of you know that I now have nine grandchildren with one more due to join us in January. There are currently eight boys and one girl. Each one of their personalities radiate a different gift and I marvel at what they already have brought to this world and ponder the impact that they will have on it as they continue to grow. Throughout my last visit with some of them, my granddaughter, my only girl, would often ask me to sit with her. “Sit here, Memaw,” she’d say and pat the chair. She is three years old. “So we can be connected,” she continued. I thought to myself, what a lovely thought, and where did she come up with that. And then later, when we’d all be doing something together, she’d say again, “Come here, Memaw,” and then she’d add, “so we can be connected.” Throughout my visit, I’d hear many times, her sweet smurf-like little voice say, as a big smile spread across her face, “so we can be connected, MeMaw.” “Yes, sweetheart, how important it is for us, ‘to be connected’.” In these hard times that we are all going through this year, we have all had to face things that we have never had to face; as a nation, as a society, and as Christians. We are in a season, that now, more than ever, we must stand as a nation, as a society, and as Christians, for what we believe in. Never in our history, have we been called to stand, as we are being called to at this time. “For such a time as this,” was what Mordecai said to Esther, when she was called to take a stand for her God and her people. Will we do the same? Will we stand up for what is right, even if it is not popular? Will we take action on the faith that we proclaim we have, even if we gain nothing? Even if we lose everything? Even if it is not politically correct? “O death, where is your sting? O grave, where is your victory? For the sting of death is sin and the strength of sin is (man’s way). But thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” It is time for us to come together as one nation under God, to proclaim the victory that generations of lives have fought to give us. And as my dear sweet granddaughter innocently proclaimed, “It is time for us ‘to be connected’”. God Bless~~

copyright marsha barth 2020

Precious Memories……

published 8/14/20

I pull in my driveway, and see the small bike sitting in the yard. So many memories come rushing back. There it sets—the banana seat decorated in flowers, the pink and white frame with the pink handle grips. It is as if I have been transported back thirty years, and at any moment my little girl and boy will come running out of the house to greet me. Such are the precious memories of our past. I had been cleaning the garage and had taken the bike out in the process. Life is precious. Family is precious. Time is precious. The joys of our todays, are what makes the memories of our past so special. So what about today???What can we do to make a special memory today? A kind smile to the checkout cashier instead of an off the cuff, “have a good one”? A warm thank you to a friend? An extra hug to our children, even when they spill the milk? They are always easier to hug when they are adorable. A forgiving word to someone who really let you have it, or let you down? A card to someone who is having a hard time??? A phone call or even a message to someone you haven’t contacted for a while??? What can we do today that will affect tomorrow??? I have so much to learn. I often wonder if it will take me until I am 99 for God to perfect these things in my heart and life. By then, everyone will say, “Look at that cute little grandma, but she doesn’t have a clue.” And I will say, “Are you kidding? It took me 99 years to get it.” “Let us lay aside the weight and sin that so easily besets us….” “Be you kind one to another”. Life is too precious for anything else. God Bless~~

Amazing Grace….

published 8/14/20

There is such healing and hope in music. It is with great joy that I share Mike’s new album. Click below to listen to this heavenly music. Contact here to purchase physical CD’s. God Bless……

Click this link:

#NowPlaying

https://open.spotify.com/album/1XPGoCxDfNE31wIDbscTZV?si=hwIJhGUuRPajW0K4mQAZWQ&fbclid=IwAR1NWZVO7FSjPPqJJpKHbZehNgHCDO6ObOgg4NCmdQ8CMLfZ6tI8di5SHLQ

Many of you have awaited my next album. I am happy to say that after two years of much soul searching that it is now completed and has just been released on all streaming music platforms. Please Click Below…..

“Amazing Grace….the new journey” is an album that captures the heart of our precious hymns with the blended echoes of heaven.

Many were the tears of the songwriters of our precious hymns of

yesteryear. Knowing the stories behind these sacred songs can give us

a better understanding of the offering of “sacrifice of praise”: from

Fanny Cosby’s, “Blessed Assurance”, who blind, wrote over 8,000

gospel songs, to Joseph Scriven’s, “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”,

who lost his fiance the night before his wedding, and John Newton,

who pinned, “Amazing Grace”, his song of redemption from enslaving

others cruelly, became his heartfelt cry of deliverance for all; and so

many more songs of triumph.

“David’s Song”, is played in pentatonic scale, having only five notes

per octave. We can imagine David, with his many trials of faith,

resting perhaps by his favorite sanctuary, the trickling of a stream, his

fingers gently strumming the strings of his harp. As he plays, his eyes

closed, he cannot hear the sounds of heaven that are echoing back in

harmony with him.

May the brush of angels’ wings touch, and inspire you with this

compilation of old-time favorite hymns, reorchestrated with perhaps

some of the sounds of heaven.

#NowPlaying

https://open.spotify.com/album/1XPGoCxDfNE31wIDbscTZV?si=hwIJhGUuRPajW0K4mQAZWQ&fbclid=IwAR1NWZVO7FSjPPqJJpKHbZehNgHCDO6ObOgg4NCmdQ8CMLfZ6tI8di5SHLQ

The Raven and the Cross…..

published 7/17/2020

The other day, Mike and I stopped by our church. As I was waiting for Mike, I heard this horrible squawking noise. It wasn’t a loud noise, but just this very irritable scratchy caw. It started low and then rose in pitch. Unlike, the songs of birds that I love to hear, this was a very annoying sound that caught my attention. It reminded me of fingernails on a chalk board. I glanced around and didn’t see anything and then I heard it again, fussing louder this time. I looked up to where I heard the noise. And there he sat, all by himself, as if in total control of the situation. I stood looking up at him. This ugly noisy creature just sitting there, surrounded by the most brilliant blue sky as a beautiful backdrop. What really caught my attention was, not even how ragged he looked, or how screechy he sounded, but where he was sitting. This ghastly shrieking raven was sitting on top of the beautiful cross on our steeple. It was eerie to see something so minacious looking sitting on something so precious as the cross. I stood watching him, and he, me. He neither cared or felt threatened by my presence. Even when I moved around, he seemed to sit arrogantly, unmovable. I couldn’t help think of how representative he was of the turmoil that has turned our world upside down. Evil has come to sit upon the cross. Boldly, he declares his intentions, as if he feels that he has wrought some great victory. As if he has overcome the cross and put it beneath him. It was a chilling sight actually, and it unnerved me. But then a wonderful thing happened. Mike quietly got out of the truck and joined me. There was something about the presence of two of us standing there. The raven eyed us up, and then as with great fear and trepidation, he flew away, taking with him all the arrogance and evil that he represented. There is power in the righteous coming together. Where two or more are gathered, God is in our midst. Now, in the midst of this great turmoil of our country, we must come together as one. We must stand in the face of evil and proclaim a unity like never before. We must not let evil divide us. And more than ever we must not let the ravens of darkness sit on the cross of our heart. This precious precious cross that represents more than a piece of jewelry that we wear around our neck. This emblem represents the Jesus that died, so that we could rise again, empowered by His spirit, to overcome evil, and to chase away the ravens of darkness that dare to sit on the cross of our heart.

“Hatred stirs up strifes: BUT love covers all sins. Proverbs 10:12

copyright marsha barth 2020

Let’s Not Forget Normal~~~

published 6/27/20

“What a Wonderful World”, Louis Armstrong sang in 1967. A song that topped the charts during an era much like we have today. In 1967 we were bombarded daily with news of the Vietnam war; some of the worst riots that our country had ever seen; Israel had just fought and won the Six-Day War; and so much upheaval in our country had turned our world upside down. And then, here came “Louie” and helped us find normal. “I see trees of green, red roses too, I see them bloom for me and you. I see friends—saying, how do you do, they’re really saying I love you.” I went out on the patio today to have a cup of coffee. A little butterfly joined me. I sat watching him. He fanned himself gently, with his wings slowly going up and down. I sat there and marveled at the beauty etched in his wings. Beauty, that no artist could ever capture. I looked past him and saw small ants scurrying around on the patio, as if there would be no tomorrow. The larger ants ran past them, hurrying on to some great mission of importance that only they would ever know. I saw one large ant pick on a small ant. But the wiser of the two, ‘the small ant’, ran off ignoring the bully as if it hadn’t even phased him. I heard the birds singing and joining in a harmony that I never have heard sung by a choir. The smell of fresh cut grass filled the air mingled with the fragrance of the dynamic blooms of the flowers that surrounded me. There is still so much normal out there amidst the turmoil that we are all facing as a nation. Let us run this race together; with love, compassion, and hope. Let us not forget that we are our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers. Let us hold up high the banner of our God, Whom, this nation was built upon. Let us not compromise or shrink from the principles that so many have died for, that we might be free. Let us not forget the ONE who died for all of us, to set us free. And, together we will stand; we will hope; and not doubt, or fear these troubled times, but will embrace them to become a stronger people, a better nation, a kinder world. Let us not forget normal, for truly above all these things– “What a Wonderful World.” mlb

Amazing Grace…..

published 5/27/2020

It is Amazing Grace. God’s grace. Grace that gives us peace when we are troubled, hope when we are weary, strength when we are weak, and love when we are feeling alone. Mike’s new album “Amazing Grace”, will be released soon. Here is a song from it and a few words from Mike…..

Many of you have patiently awaited my next CD. “Amazing Grace….with David’s Song” is currently in manufacturing and will soon be released and available around the world on all music media applications. “Amazing Grace”, is an album containing many of our precious hymns of yesteryear. Each song has been painstakingly and prayerfully rewritten with up to 16 layers of instruments and voices to bless your soul and to carry you on a journey of peace. Many were the tears of our songwriters who wrote these songs of old. From Fanny Cosby’s, “Blessed Assurance”, who blind, wrote over 8,000 gospel songs, to Joseph Scriven’s, “What a Friend We Have in Jesus”, who lost his fiance the night before his wedding, and John Newton, who pinned, “Amazing Grace”, his song of redemption from enslaving others cruelly, became his heartfelt cry of deliverance for all; and so many more songs of triumph. “David’s Song”, is played in pentatonic scale, as on his harp, which had only five notes per octave.
My desire is that the brush of angels’ wings touch, and inspire you with this compilation of old-time favorite hymns, reorchestrated with perhaps some of the sounds of heaven. Attached is my song…”What a Friend We Have in Jesus”.

All rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication is prohibited by law. Copyright 2020

SHADOWED BY LOVE….

published 5/10/20

We all called her Mom….

As my Dad’s drinking continued; I watched

sin destroy our family, and I watched as my Mom struggled through all the hurt and pain to keep us kids from being completely swallowed up in it. She pressed 24 dozen blouses a day in a steaming factory to provide for us, while a community judged and condemned her for not being there with us.

Love,

Marty

We Have a Voice……

published 4/22/20

https://www.facebook.com/CrimeVicPA/videos/656333408544312/?t=11

I was asked by CVAP (Crime Victims’ Alliance of PA) to do this video for National Crime Victims’ Week.

APRIL is such a beautiful month to welcome in a new season after a long hard winter. And what a wonderful month to welcome in a new season for so many, after their life season of a long hard winter. April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, it is also National Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and National Victims’ Rights Week–this week from April 19-25. Join us in this celebration of overcoming, for now we have a voice! God Bless~~

Stand Strong and Be Encouraged….

published 4/22/20

https://psu.zoom.us/j/94052025249

Not long ago, I was going through some of my old school papers and keepsakes. I was a little surprised at a memory that crept back on me. On the margins of a lot of my school papers was a little insignia that I had created. It popped up in the margins of my notes, scribblings, and many other keepsakes. I couldn’t help think of what this meant to me at that time. It would have seemed incidental to most people, and probably would have been overlooked by many if they saw it. But for me, it was different. It meant pure survival. I remember sitting there and looking at it. I fingered the papers and looked at the unsteadiness of my handwriting that was so different from today’s. Immediately, I knew exactly why I had written it on all of my papers. I also remembered very vividly where I was at emotionally at that time in my life. The little valley where I was raised, would never had known the turmoil that ate at my spirit like a cancer of my soul. But those words were more than words that I wrote on my papers. They were words that God had written on my heart. Words from Him, that were etched in the depth of my very being and gave me a hope when all had been shattered. The words were~~ “Peace Within”, encircled in a heart. But they were more than words for me. They were an experience that had lifted my heart out of great darkness and into a new Hope. I still live that Hope today.Faith Fellowship’s Women’s Ministry will be holding a special free Webinar on Saturday 9:00-12:00. Speaking will be myself, “Theresa Johnson”, “Toni Stewart”, and “Tamara Bopp”. I will be speaking on “Treasures of the Darkness” We truly invite any and all of you to join us. For many years many of our friends and family have expressed that they wish that they could attend one of our conferences. Now, all can join us. And it is free. It is as easy to do as posting a picture. Just click on this link on Saturday-starting at 9:00 and going through 12:00 and join us. https://psu.zoom.us/j/94052025249

Or by Telephone:
1-646-876-9923 or 1-312-626-6799
Webinar ID: 940 5202 5249—

RSVP on this event or to get all the update https://www.facebook.com/events/154777319192749/?notif_t=plan_user_invited&notif_id=1586395961130309

copyright marsha barth 2020

Lest We Forget…...

published 4/11/20

I hear a lawnmower in the distance and the children playing outside next door. The sun shines brightly and the birds are happier than I have ever heard them. Such wonderful reminders of the beauty of life and the beauty of this season. I have always loved Easter. When we were little, I would dress up in my new dress, new lacy white socks, and shiny black shoes. My brothers would wear their white shirts and bow ties. I even often wore little frilly bonnets and sometimes white gloves. There was dinner at Gramma’s house with all the aunts, uncles, and cousins; and always the Easter egg hunt later–with real eggs. The prize was the egg. And yet, I often found myself sad on Easter when I thought of Jesus dying on the cross. It wasn’t like Christmas, when there was great jubilation at his birth. As a child, I could never understand the joy of Easter with the sorrow of his death. It wasn’t until He came into my heart that I understood. The joy was not in His death, but in His life! It took a longer time for me to truly realize, and even believe, that He would’ve died for me alone. If there were no others, He would have done it just for me. So now, I like to remind myself of what He really gave me. I want it to be written in my heart, not just in my mind. I watched the “Passion of Christ” today. I couldn’t help crying through it once again–Not because of the sorrow that He bore, but because He bore that great sorrow for me. This is the joy of that sorrow, that He loves us. That He was wounded for my transgressions, bruised for my iniquities, died, went to hell to take back the keys to death and hell, and then rose again in Victory! If we look at only the sorrow in life, we will dismay. If we don’t look at the sorrow at all, we will forget. As He died and rose again, so can we as a people, as a nation. May this great God of love, cover you in these storms of life, give you comfort when you are weary, strength when you are weak, joy in your sorrow, and Victory over death! Happy Easter dear friends……

copyright marsha barth 2020

Saturday, April 25, 2020 at 9 AM – 12 PM…

published 4/9/2020

Tired of not being able to get out? Faith Fellowship Ladies Ministry is sponsoring a FREE Webinar for all who want to join us. All welcome. Guest Speakers are Theresa Johnson, Marsha (Marty)Barth, Tamara Bopp, and Toni Stewart.

Join us for an exciting time of encouragement in the Word. You will be able to join us on Zoom from the comfort of your own home! Never used Zoom before? Don’t worry. It’s very simple, and we will provide a link and instructions. All you need is an internet connection and computer or mobile device. More information to follow. RSVP on this event to get all the update https://www.facebook.com/events/154777319192749/?notif_t=plan_user_invited&notif_id=1586395961130309

Monsters Don’t Always Wear Masks

published 4/7/2020

The birds sing. The flowers bloom. And the sun shines. All bring a hope to our hearts, in a season that has brought us all sorrow. They stand as a witness, that life is precious. Life is hard. And life is good. On this journey of life, there is beauty to enjoy, hardships to overcome, and love to share. It is so important that we know how to do all three. I wanted to write today on “life is hard”. I like the old show “Leave It to Beaver”. I watch the reruns. Today the dad was explaining to Beaver that the woman in the house down the road wasn’t a witch; that surely he could see this by how cleaned up she was when she visited them. “After all, did she look like a witch?” And Beaver told his dad, “Sure, dad. But maybe she just looks that way for adults.” I don’t think of abuse, all the time. Actually, I no more enjoy thinking of it than you do. When God heals you, and brings you out of any pain and sorrow, you are set free. You have no desire to revisit it. But sometimes you go back into the fire to rescue those that are still in the burning house. When Beaver told his dad that, my mind without any forethought, kicked right into gear. You see, in these times that we are living, especially now with our schedules tossed everywhere, and scurrying to find care for our children, we must be mindful that though witches probably do not live a few doors down from us, there may be a few monsters in our midst that don’t always wear masks. Listen to your children. Watch your child’s body language. And never assume that anyone is safe just because—they are a “neighbor”, “a friend”, a “relative”, “a Sunday school teacher,” “a coach”, “a youth leader”, a “babysitter”, a “teenager”, i.e. 1 in 4 girls, 1 in 6 boys are molested by age 18. This is based on only 40% ever being reported, 60% are never reported. And in children, it is estimated that only 10% are ever reported, leaving 90% unreported. One-third of child predators today are children themselves, under age 18. But we say, “not my child.” “I’m careful.” “And besides, my child would tell me.” In most cases, they will not. Not because they don’t love or trust you enough. But because they love and trust you too much. 93% of all children abused know their attacker. So in warning children of the dangers of strangers, we have protected them from 7% . I, like you, do not make this topic my morning read. But if it will help just one child, I will speak up. Watch and listen deeply to your child. Watch their body language. If they don’t want to hug someone, don’t make them. Give them a chance to learn who they feel safe with and who they can trust. Watch if they continually want to stay away from a place or a person. Remember, they may not even know themselves why they feel the way they do, but allow them to learn how they feel and allow them to learn who they feel they can trust. Talk to them on their level. And please remember, “monsters do not always wear masks.” Life is precious. Life is hard. Life is good. And roses will bloom again. God bless you my friends…..

copyright Marsha Barth 2020

Love Is A Gift For Every Day….

published 4/2/20

I have been blessed with a wonderful husband. He not only loves me, he is also a great cook. He just got done working an eight day stretch on his essential job. The first thing that he did this morning was make us breakfast. I woke up to smelling fried onions and potatoes. He makes everything from scratch. It is not our anniversary. It is not my birthday. It is no “special” day per say~~but it is “our” day. Love is a gift for every day. Mike and I have shared almost 48 years together. Through thick and thin, ups and downs, valleys and mountaintops, Mike and I have learned that God’s love has always knitted our hearts together and got us through all of these things. Love cannot be what we think it is; what we think others should do for us; or what we think we should do for them. Love is from God. Love is God. We’ve lost that simple reality in a world that has tried to define love by their own standards—-which by the way–aren’t that great. Now is a time to know the Love of God. Now is a time to come to the Love of God. Now is a time to experience the Love of God. Now is a time to share the Love of God. Be blessed my dear friends. ❤️

copyright 2020 Marsha Barth

“I’m Sorry”………..

published 3/28/20

A few months ago, the family had visited Florida. This is a special time of year for all of us, as we get to be together for two weeks. I love the one-on-one time that we get to share. Out of the nine grandchildren, I have eight boys and one little girl. She is pure delight, and quite a spunky little thing. Actually, Savannah and her older brother Matthew are quite inseparable. He is only 18 months older than her. My son calls them “Bonnie and Clyde”. One night, as I was watching them, they got into a little tith. Savannah was really upset. I said, “Matthew, you need to tell Savannah you are sorry.” He really was sorry because he could see that he had crossed the line with his little sister. He very sincerely said, “I’m sawry, Sabannah.” But Savannah’s feelings were still very hurt, and she said right back, “I no forgive you Maphew. Not now, no ever!” I just watched the two of them. Both had managed to crush each others hearts a little. The amazing thing is, that “no ever” lasted about five minutes, before they were back playing and laughing again. I know children learn from us, but I love the way, that so often, we learn from them. I wonder if there is someone today that you love and that loves you, that you may just want to give them a call. Maybe you, or them, have both felt the same way, “I’ll never forgive you.” The beautiful thing about my “Bonnie and Clyde” is, that they love each other. And truly love does conquer all. Have a blessed day!

copyright Marsha Barth 2020

YOU MATTER…….
Interview live tonight, Thursday, March 5 at 7:00 EST.
https://anchor.fm/tamala-jenise-coleman
When I visit the prisons, rehabs and other venues, I begin by telling them, “the reason I come is not just to share my story but to relate to your story.” I tell them that we all have a story. And though our stories may be different, they are the same in this, somewhere in our lives, HOPE was shattered. I also tell them, “You Matter”. Know always, that YOU do matter to God. “Behold, the LORD’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; Nor His ear heavy, that it cannot hear.” Isaiah 59:1 We are more than conquerors, we are VICTORS!

Whatever Happened to Mice, Dogs, Ducks, and Flying Nanas…

published 3/8/2020

This will be a different blog. One that I have held off on writing, but I feel it must be written. When did it become wrong to voice an opinion? When did society change, that if your opinion is different than theirs, you are a mean, judging and condemning person? So we remain quiet. On all issues. I have friends that sadly have committed adultery, done drugs, stolen from others, and some that are, or have been in alternate lifestyles. I also have friends that have chosen other paths, some I agree with, some I do not. They know where I stand on these issues, and I know their opinions also. I don’t mitigate from what I believe in, just because I care for them. And I don’t hesitate to speak up against the things that I believe are wrong. That is why it is easy for me to go into the prisons, rehabs, and other venues and speak to all people. And this does not make me judgmental, condemning, or a homophobic. You can still love and care for someone and not agree with them.
I do advocacy work, along with my speaking and writing. And I am appalled at what we are doing to our children. Children are impressionable. They receive and take everything in, as truth. They have no capacity to filter what is right and wrong, and usually accept as truth what is told to them by sources that they believe they can trust. So it is our responsibility as adults to teach them to love people despite the differences. BUT, it is also our responsibility to teach them what is wrong, and what is right. And teach them that they don’t have to give up what they believe is right, because they care for someone. Nor do we teach them that they have to go along with everyone, fit in, and have no opinion of their own. When did it become okay to infiltrate our children with only what society deems is appropriate, true and politically correct??? When did society become the parents of our children??? When did having a good friend of the same sex, boy or girl, become suggestive that either or both child may be gay or lesbian?? When did we as a society began to encourage children to experiment with their sexuality before they even understand what sexuality is?? Why have we encouraged children to dive into sexuality while they are still children??? Why can’t they just be children??? They will have enough questions as they enter puberty on their sexual identity, and their identity as a whole, but they will be old enough then to sort through what is presented to them.
I am again, talking about the Disney situation. Whatever happened to mice, dogs, ducks, and flying nanas? I personally think a little wholesome fantasy from Mickey Mouse, Pluto, Goofy, Donald Duck, Mary Poppins, and Cinderella were good for our children. But, Disney has to bring us into the occult, with Demons and rituals, (The Owl House). And now Disney wants to also incorporate gay and lesbianism into these shows and movies, (Disney’s new movie “Onward”); and upcoming Marvel Studios’ movie (“The Eternals”) will include a homosexual superhero and a same-sex kiss.

https://onemillionmoms.com/current-campaigns/gay-superhero-and-same-sex-kiss-in-marvel-s-upcoming-movie-the-eternals/

Regardless of your feelings on these issues, I think we can all agree that it is wrong to indoctrinate our children and subtly or overtly weave it into the young impressionable minds of our children. Statistics show that in 2016–0.6% of U.S. adults identify as transgender, the overall percentage of people with disabilities in the U.S. in 2016 was 12.8%, and nearly 3% of children younger than 18 years are blind or visually impaired. So why wouldn’t Disney and our society want to present to our children, movies of overcoming disabilities, being blind, or other themes to their movies. Why would you pick a theme such as gay and lesbianism, and demons, which are not suitable for children; or on a personal level for me; not for adults either. Unless your motive is to indoctrinate them into acceptance of these things? And if it is okay, as some will say it is, then why are you weaving it subtly and overtly into your movies secretly? Why are you trying to indoctrinate our children into believing in demons, and that an alternate life style of .6% is the normal? Do we teach our children to love and to not condemn all people?? Yes. Do we teach them to accept things and indoctrinate them with themes that are wrong and out of their reach of understanding at that age?? No. Disney is either a children’s platform or it is a platform for Demons, Occult, Political Correctness, and Sexuality issues??? Which are you Disney??????

copyright Marsha Barth 2020

Interview……

published 3/3/2020

Great Interview with host, Tamala Coleman, on “Amazing Grace” on Faith Broadcasting, to air live on Thursday, March 5, at 7:00 p.m. Tamala Coleman’s audience, reaches over 75,000 people. My sincere thanks to this great woman of God, and the mighty work she is doing.

copyright Marsha Barth 2020

A Song in the Night….

published 2/28/2020

Not long ago, I came home late one night. It was dark and very cold. One of those nights when you practically ran out of the car and into the house. As I gathered my things and hurriedly got out of the car, I suddenly stopped and paused. There was a melodic sound in the air. It was so very beautiful, gentle, soothing. Then, it went away. But suddenly, I heard it again; a little louder now, but still with that gentle and sublime sound. I stopped and listened. The wind blew past me, brushing my hair aside, and I could feel the chill of the air, but I wanted to just linger and listen. Another gust of wind whisked past me and the music became louder. I turned and looked, and there it was. The wind chimes at the garage, sang loudly for all to hear. Every time the wind blew, it was a different tune. As the chimes beat one against the other, each one sounded out a different note. It was so beautiful. It was as if angels had stirred the chimes and they were echoing heaven’s chorus. I gathered my things and continued to the front door. My heart smiled as I paused to look for my key; “A Song in the Night”. How often have we missed our song in the night in the hurry and scurry of things? We all have night seasons in our life– times of sorrow and hardship that we don’t understand. I see this most clearly when I go into the prisons like we did the other night. One of the girls had read my book and I had the chance to talk with her. We truly cannot begin to know the heart of another until we see the pain they have walked through. That is why going into the prisons doesn’t bother me. There is a difference in those who have chosen evil, and those who have just lost their way. Do all belong there? Yes. I have never justified or excused the reasons any of them are there. But the sincere ones know this already without being told. But surely we can bring them a “Song in the Night?” I am reminded of an old song we used to sing:
“Some through the waters, some through the flood
Some through the fire, but all through the blood
Some through great sorrow, but God gives a song
In the night season and all the day long.”

copyright Marsha Barth 2020

No Humpty-Dumpty……

published 2/13/2020

I was busy in the kitchen the other day. Have you ever had one of those moments when you feel like you’re moving in slow motion? The glass lid slid right off the counter. Going into my tomboy mode, I instantly went to catch it. And amazingly, I caught it, kind of, with my legs and slowed it down. I thought for sure I had broken its fall. But when it hit the floor it exploded into pieces.

I don’t think that I’ve ever broken something this bad. It was in hundreds of pieces with shards of glass everywhere. I stood looking at it, and realized, that it had not broken, but it was shattered. I think of this often, because “broken” we can fix—duct tape, crazy glue. But “shattered” we cannot fix. There are things in our life that have been broken and they can be fixed. But the things in our life that have been shattered, leave us standing hopelessly at a loss. It is then that we realize that God is not a Humpty-Dumpty God. He is not a God that just glues us back together again and leaves us with all the cracks to show. No, we have a God who loves us and cares about every shattered part of our lives. And if we will come to Him, He will heal our shattered hearts, lives, hopes, dreams, relationships, finances, hurts and pain. He is not a Humpty-Dumpty God, but a God that makes us a new creature in Him. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”2 Corinthians 5:17 Will interview with Tamala Coleman on iHeartRadio Podcasts/ iHeartRadio on February 29, 2020.

copyright Marsha Barth 2020

Awake Oh My Soul…...

published 1/11/2020

What do we do in a world that has lost its way??? In a world where good is called evil—Where right is called wrong—where integrity and strength are called weakness? Where will we find our direction? Where will we find our strength? Where will we find the principles to raise a new generation with the qualities of life that stand for truth and honor? Oh America, how have you fallen asleep and forgotten all that once you believed, cherished and fought for? Will you awake or roll over and choose to slumber just a little while longer? Will you arise and rest on man, or your own strength and wisdom, or will you see past the limitations of your own ways, and thoughts, and see the need that we ourselves cannot supply, not even in our finest hour? And as for hope and strength, from which well will you draw them from? How long, before we awake? How long before we see our need? How long before we humble ourselves and call out? How long before we unashamedly, and without religious pretension, speak of the One that is higher than us? Probably, not until we come to the true awareness of His reality. A reality that supersedes our thoughts, our reasonings, our plans and our ways. A reality that supersedes religion and our differences, and a reality that it is impossible for us to find our way without Him. Awake, oh my soul. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4X8Pu-okGg

copyright Marsha Barth 2019

The Night before Christmas….

published 12/26/19

I lay in bed and hear the faint sounds of Silent Night filling the house. I stir, and my heart is reminded of the many Christmases that song has ushered in.
I had a lot of time to think on my drive into WV to pick up my Mom to bring her back to celebrate Christmas with us. Mom is 85 years old. She still bowls, likes to Bingo, and can still double wringer horseshoes. She reminds me of all that is good in this world. Her love has been a great comfort to me throughout my life. But this trip is different than so many of the others. I am picking Mom up from the hospital.
I drive unhurriedly, without rushing, knowing that she is coming home. I fidget with the car radio as the Christmas music that is playing fades out. And then there it is, a song that truly lights my heart,~~ “Take Me Home Country Roads”. I listen to the song and I sing along. Once again, those country roads are taking me back home. I pass a tractor trailer and read the post on the back of it, “His name is not the man UPSTAIRS,” it says, “His name is JESUS.” Again, my heart smiles, not only to know His name, but to know Him. This God who reached down and loved me. Who cares for everything that troubles me; who knows my every concern, my every doubt, my every fear.
I turn over in bed as I hear “Christmas in Dixie” playing softly in the next room. My mom rests. She is my Christmas present this year. Tomorrow we will head back to PA to share Christmas with my dear family, all 14 of them—my children, my 9 grandchildren. I need no snow to make it feel like Christmas, or presents under the tree. My heart fills with all the many Christmases of the past. This wonderful season, where joy and sorrow come together as one. Where Hope was born, and Joy and Peace were birthed, so that we may know that truly whatever season of life that we are in, truly a Savior which is called Christ Our Lord was born today in the city of David, called Bethlehem. He is never too far away to those who will call on His precious name. For He is Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. He truly is more than the “man upstairs.” Merry Merry Christmas my dear friends. May the Love of Christmas carry and comfort you through every storm of life that you may be going through. “Marty”

A Hug from Heaven…..

published 12/14/2019

?❤️??I look down and begin to read the words before me. I touch the thin light pages with my fingers as I read. “In the second month on the fourteenth day…” It doesn’t seem to strike me with much meaning, more of a historical note. But also on this page is one of my little bookmarks. I pick it up and look at it. I hold it in my hand and study it, and my heart fills with emotion. The letters are drawn ever so precisely. They are neatly colored and centered on the card. The words are surrounded by peach flowers and green ivy. I marvel at the simplicity of the bookmark and remember my dear friend of 55 years who made it for me last year. It says, “You Look Like You Need A Hug….” and then a little arrow points to the back. I turn the card over and in her handwriting is written, “Just consider this a long distant hug from me.” Tears fill my eyes with the love that I feel for this friend and sister. They are happier tears than sad. They fill my heart with joy as I remember her in love. She had made this little bookmark for me, as she had made so many of them, for me and others. I never thought last year at this time, when I visited her for Christmas, that this year she would be gone, and I miss her. I miss her love, her smile, her unique laughter, and listening ear. But I rejoice, because her love is still with me. She still even knows when I need a hug. “Just consider this a long distant hug from me,” the words in her familiar handwriting say. A hug from heaven, she sent me today, and it made my heart smile and fill with joy, not sorrow. I look and read the scripture, “In the second month on the fourteenth day…” And then I realize, Pam died on February 14, “the second month on the fourteenth day…” Merry Christmas my dear friend. Thank you for your hug from heaven……. ?❤️??

copyright Marsha Barth 2019

Windows of the Soul……

published 12/2/2019

I had a long drive the other day asI drove up through the country roads that led to Shamokin, in Coal Township. It is amazing how black and white the scenery is at this time of year. There are no autumn colors of fall, no brilliant reds or gold. There are no purples and blues from the hydrangeas of summer or the lilacs of spring. Just cold and gray before you, unfolding with every turn of the road. The scenery kind of fitted in with the mood of the day, as I neared the Coal Township State Correctional Institute to speak on a “Crime Impact Class”. But as I walked through the corridors, and once again heard the familiar clank of the heavy iron doors, I realized that the vibrancy of life is not always seen in our surroundings, but in the windows of the soul, through the eyes of those we meet. We can easily miss this unless we intentionally look deep into the eyes of those who surround us. And we don’t have to be in a prison to do this. Have you looked lately into the eyes of those who surround you. Those that you love. Those that you work with. Those sitting alone in the mall. Those who have lost a loved one, or suffered a great loss in their lives. Those who are struggling with the complex or even the simple realities of life. What do you see??? Can you see the sorrow and loss, the struggle of the battle, the weariness of the soul, the despair and longing for hope in a world that seems to continue on without skipping a beat, oblivious to the heartache hidden behind the smile, but seen, if we look, in those windows of the soul? We are our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers. We can shine a light of Hope into those dark places. We can share a word of Love to those hiding behind the veil of life. I drove home that day with a smile in my heart. And though the night was falling, the setting of a beautiful sunset splashed across the horizon with a burst of color, its rays of brilliance lighting a path ahead. I then drove to the Lebanon County Prison and met my friend there, and we, together, went in to minister to the women there. Oh, to see hope arise in those windows of the soul and see a God touch their hearts with His love and promise. Now at this Thanksgiving time, let us pause to ponder and remember the joy as well as the sorrow, the blessings as well as the loss, the hope as well as the despair, “that we may abound in Hope.” Romans 15:13

copyright Marsha Barth 2019

BOOK TALK AND BOOK SIGNING…..
THIS THURSDAY AT 7:30 P.M. NOVEMBER 14, 2019

published 11/12/19

So many ask me about my books, “The Shattering”, and “The Shattering II. This local event will be preceded by a short talk about the books, with a question and answer session to follow. ALL ARE WELCOME. For those who like stories of healing and inspiration, these are my true stories, written in novel form, of the promise of hope, the power of love, and the joy of overcoming. My sincere thanks to our former representative, Mauree Gingrich for her endorsement on “The Shattering II”. Looking forward to this event and seeing everyone there. “Hope is tangible and breathes life and passion into every human soul that dares to reach out, grab it, and believe.” Quote, Chapter 21,”The Shattering II”. “The impact made a death-curdling sound that echoed throughout the countryside. Metal crushed, glass splattered, and then there was complete silence. … The Chevy sat crushed like a tin can, its windshield had splattered where Ethel’s head had hit it before she was thrown from the car. … The rescuers began to carefully lift Emma from the car. The sounds of sirens seared loudly as the woman from the Pontiac was whisked away. “Please,” Emma cried out to the attendants. “Is she alive?” The rescuers did not answer but began to pull the sheet up over Ethel’s lifeless body…” excerpt from “The Shattering”.

Signs Along the Way…

published 11/10/2019

The other week, I visited the Lebanon County Correctional Center with our team. Often, when I go in to speak, I look into the eyes and heart of those that are listening. I sometimes can not help wondering what they looked like as a child. Where did the child go?? When did the child get lost??? I have found that one thing is certain, more than not, most feel that they do not matter. Many feel that they have never mattered. When a soul gets lost in the turmoil of life, they have no hope to light their way. I love to read road signs when I drive. I was surprised the other day, while driving down to my son’s house to see a sign that said, “You Matter”. I always tell those that I speak to that if they don’t remember anything I tell them that day, to remember that “You Matter”. I wanted to stop and look at that sign and see why it was posted there, but couldn’t. “You do matter!!!” Which reminds me of another sign I saw while driving. (I drive a lot) It said, “God is Speaking. Are You Listening?” So, I share with you, as I share with others— “God is Speaking. Are You Listening?” Because if you are— “You Matter”. God Bless~~~

copyright Marsha Barth 2019

“The Look”…..

published 11/1/2019

This is my last post from Hawaii, on this trip. I love speaking at The Aloha House. It is a wonderful in-house recovery center. For the last 15 years, I have visited and spoken at many prisons, along with many rehab and recovery centers. Mike always drives me to these venues, and probably is my strongest supporter. He always asks me when I come out, “How did it go?” I have gotten in the habit of answering him with a big smile, and say, “I always get the look.” He gives me a big smile back, because he too, has seen “the look”. Mike is not able to go with me into the prisons, but he was allowed to go with me a few years ago into The Aloha House, and has went in with me every time since. The first time that Mike went in with me, he got to actually see “the look” and it kind of changes you forever. It is an amazing thing to witness. When, I go into a facility, any facility, there is a curiosity of the inmates, clients and residents as they see me enter, and rightly so. Many of them, have long ago, hid their hearts behind a hard wall of protection. “The look”, says, “You are all cleaned up, what can you possibly tell me?” And, I can honestly say that I have seen that look every single time that I visit, throughout the last 15 years, at every facility. But that is not the truly amazing part of the look. As, I began to share with them, and talk with them, God’s presence begins to move on those hard walls that are surrounding their hearts. One, by one, I get to watch God miraculously, begin to touch their hearts, and tear down those walls. As, God does the work, slowly, you begin to see the tears crease out of their eyes. The hardness begins to disappear, and then you see the real miracle—HOPE fills those eyes where there was once despair. It is like seeing a rainbow appear amidst a dark and stormy gale. And then, my heart smiles. Because you know, that once someone touches the “hem of God’s garment” and feels His love and reality, and realizes that they really do matter, that they are never going to be the same again. “Come unto me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

copyright Marsha Barth 2019

The Promise of Hope…….

published 10/27/2019

When I was a little girl, every Sunday morning, my three older brothers and I would walk up a winding dirt road that led to a little country church. Our small Cocker Spaniel would follow us, and once there, she would cuddle up and lay down at the little church door and wait for us to come back out again. It was here that I found a “Hope”; here that God touched my heart and beckoned me to Him. Things at that time were rough at home, and I had truly lost my childhood hope. But there was always a

continual nudging on my heart as God called and drew me to Him. Somewhere during this time, in the midst of Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, I was given a little cardboard bookmark. I liked it so much that I thumb tacked it to my wall. Every night before I would go bed, I would take this bookmark from my wall, climb up on my bed rail, balance myself my touching the ceiling, and hold this little bookmark up to my ceiling light. I would then turn out the light, hop down, and thumb tack it back into the wall, and climb into bed. I would lay there in the dark and look at it on the wall. At the top of it was a picture of Jesus. The bottom part had a little purple velvet shield and on this shield was a little white cross. When I held it up to the light, it would glow in the dark. I would lay there and look at that little cross glowing in the dark and it would fill me with “Hope”. It has been a true Hope. A Hope that has led me through many dark and lonely nights, weathered many storms, and has always restored my soul. “Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.” Romans 15:13 “Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast”. Heb. 6:19 . God has blessed me today with so many opportunities to share this Hope with others. Had a wonderful book signing at Barnes and Noble, in Kahului, Hawaii. Never have I been more welcomed, and received such hospitality at a book signing, than I was there. My sincere thanks to Cindy Mauricio and the staff of Barnes and Noble.

copyright Marsha Barth 2019

In the Belly of the Whale….

published 10/24/19

This was my third visit to the prison while in Hawaii. I have been going into the prisons for the last 15 years, from Florida to Virginia, Hawaii and Maryland and others. Some are men, some are women, some re-entrants, some county prisons, and even a maximum security all male facility. They are all different in many ways, but they are all similar in some ways also. You never forget the sounding of that iron door slamming behind you. It has to slam tight behind you before the next iron door is allowed to open. And so in many ways, this trip was not much different than the many others, and yet it was. I visited and spoke to a total of 13 different cell groups this time. I believe it was every cell block in that prison. There are different sections and levels in prison. I called this day, the belly of the whale. This was the more secured areas and thankfully, rightly so. And yet, regardless of the crime, no excusing of the accountability, there is still a great need to bring the Hope to the hopeless. Here I spoke to a small group of men who gathered to listen. Others still were behind iron doors, and pressed their ears to the doors to hear a word, any word. Oh, the desperation, of a lost and hurting soul. Others throughout the day would sit on their chairs and lean forward to hear, as the loud noise from the rest of the cell block was drowning out my words. And yet still, they leaned forward, to grab hold of any word. A word that could somehow bear some truth to their soul, that they do matter, and that they can change. Many have no desire to change. Many have chosen evil as a way of life. But there are some that hunger for a better way and they are willing to bear the accountability of what they have done, and to chose that better way. I think we must remember that Jesus went to the forlorn and those scorned by society, the Samaritan Woman, the taxpayers, Legion who was full of evil; not because they deserved it, but because Jesus was moved by compassion. I think we must remember that none of us deserve God’s love and mercy, and yet what a change in our life came when we were touched, just once, by the Master’s hand. “Hope is tangible and breathes life and passion into every human soul that dares to reach out, grab it, and believe.” Pg. 348-“The Shattering II” Jesus is that Hope.

copyright Marsha Barth 2019

A Diamond in the Rough….

published 10/24/19

One day on our trip, we looked out at the beach, and both Mike and I knew by the shoreline that it was a perfect day for looking for sea glass. Often after a storm, a full moon, or any other factor that causes the ocean to stir up its fury, it will cast stones, lava rock, shells, sand, coral, and anything within its grasp, to throw on the shore.This also includes sea glass. As I dodged the waves and focused on the shore, I began to find tidbits of little treasures amidst the massive debris of the stones and lava rock pieces. I’m not sure when it appeared, but I just grabbed at it quickly before the incoming wave could sweep it away back into the ocean. I tucked it away in my baggie and continued to search for more, not really realizing what I had found until later. Amidst the stones, it didn’t really stand out, it had no shine, and was doomed to be carried and tossed asunder in the ocean, lost forever. But there it was, this red piece of sea glass; opague, worn, rough, its beauty and purpose long washed away by many years of toil and turmoil. Or was it? Had the storms of almost 70 years, and being lost, somehow made it more beautiful than ever? Had it long ago, lost any and all purpose? It just needed to be found. Maybe it could no longer serve the purpose it was originally created for, and maybe it had lost its way long ago when it was broken by the hard tempests of life. But it was a new season now..This is the way I feel when I go into the prisons. Yes, there are many that have washed up on that shore. And sadly, yes, there may be many that wash back out to the sea of life and never find their way. But as God alone, who knows the deepest things of all our hearts, looks into the darkest of places, He sees that one lost and broken soul. He sees the one that will surrender to the shore, who wants to be found, who doesn’t want to be washed out to sea again, who wants to find a new purpose in life. Oh, they are hard to find. But the rarer they are, the more beautiful they are, even in the rough. All they need is for someone to reach out and grab them before another wave takes them back out to sea, to be lost forever. That’s what God does. I see Him do it every time that I go into prison, when He touches a heart with His love, and they begin to know His reality for the first time in their lives. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17.

copyright Marsha Barth 2019

Hope Lives~~~

published 10/24/19

It was a beautiful day as Mike drove me the Correctional Center in Hawaii. I watched the waves beat against the shore as we drove the long drive. They lulled me into a peaceful state as we drove along the one lane road. I could see it from a distance. The razor wire atop the chain fence made a statement of its own that seemed in dark contrast to the beauty of the island. As we pulled in and parked, we both paused as we so often do, before we part. I sat there for a moment as my eyes fixed on a small child that ran towards the chain link fence. She had straight jet black hair and the same jet black eyes, revealing her Hawaiian heritage. She laughed and smiled as she ran from her mommy as if she had gotten away with something. And then she turned. Her tiny hands gripped the links of the fence and she stood and stared at the buildings on the other side. Her smile faded and she looked confused as she stared straight ahead, her innocence in wonderment of why they were there. I said softly, “Look Mike.” We both sat and looked at this precious 2 year old who had stolen our hearts with her innocence. Tears filled our eyes. So many are impacted by the brokenness of prison. So many ask why I do what I do. But this is truly why. Maybe someday, her daddy will come home and his life will be changed. And her life will be changed too. God is a God of promise. He is a God of Hope. And yes, we all bear an accountability for our choices, but I am so thankful that His mercy endureth for ever. My sincere thanks to all of the staff, and especially Laureen who spent hours preparing these many meetings and went with me to every cell block. There would be more to follow….

copyright Marsha Barth 2019

A New Day…..

published 9/25/2019

I hear the train rumbling in the distance with its quiet hum echoing through the mountains. The whistle blows softly once, and then again. It is a faint sound that seems to float up the mountainside and blends into the early music of the songbirds outside. Oh the beauty, as a new day is birthed. Its peacefulness settles the heart from the hurry and scurry that a new day often demands. It awakens my heart to the precious things of life that truly matter, the simple things of life that make the heart smile. We live in a world that often spins us with hardships where we often hide them away where no one can see them. “How are you today?” “Oh, I’m fine.” And the whole time your heart is breaking from the sorrow that you are carrying, the loneliness, the confusion, the pressure of uncertainty. There is a place that we can go to–“He that dwells in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in Him will I trust. Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the enemy, and from the noisome pestilence.” Psalm 91. Such a great promise. Today is a new day. Spoke with the team at the Lebanon County Correctional Facility. One of the girls brought up that they had read my book. The chaplain went to try to find the copies on their book shelves. She handed them to the girls and said, “Which one do you want, the worn out one, or the worn out one?” My heart rejoices in that the women can read the books and know that God loves them too. That He has a plan for their lives. That they are not defined by where they have been, what has happened to them, or where they are now, but who they are in Christ and that He has a plan and a purpose for their lives. God Bless~~

copyright Marsha Barth 2019

Snapshots of the Heart…

published 9/15/19

When I was in West Virginia visiting the other week, I had the opportunity to spend some time with one of my dear brothers. We took a day and drove down to where so many years ago we went to have our family reunions. The irony was that it was this exact time of year that we always went there. We stood in the corner of the pavilion and looked out over the empty picnic tables. There was a quietness, and for a moment we were nine and ten years old again. And beside us stood our other two brothers, eleven and twelve years old. There we stood, in the same exact place that we had stood over 50 years ago. The four of us, shy, anxious and nervous standing there looking out at all the family that we saw only once a year, bustling around the tables, packing away the leftovers of the buffet of food that we had enjoyed for lunch, before sitting down and getting comfortable to hear the singing. I could hear the guitars beside us being plucked and tuned. All we wanted to do was get done the singing so we could go play on the swings and get into a good game of baseball. A smile crossed my face as I turned to my brother. He smiled back. Remember how we sang, “On Wolverton Mountain”. “Her tender lips, are sweeter than honey…” We took one more long look and then turned to go. These are “snapshots of the heart.” They are more real than the pictures we take, for they are experiences of the heart. There is a goodness to my life when I think of all the good that God has brought into my life. How He truly wipes away all tears from our eyes, brings us through the stormy nights, and brings us into a new season where the sun truly shines.
Shared and spoke at the women’s seminar, “God is Completing a Good Work in Us” on Saturday, and also had a book signing for “The Shattering” and “The Shattering II”. What a wonderful time of fellowship, enjoying God’s presence, and feasting on the word.

copyright 2019 Marsha Barth

“Completing His Good Work,”

published 9/8/2019

Free Ladies’ Seminar being held this Saturday, September 14, 2019. See flier for details. Come have a great time in God’s word, great food, and great fellowship. All welcome. Book Signing for “The Shattering” and “The Shattering II”. Guest Speakers–Marsha Barth, Theresa Johnson, and Toni Stewart.

How Far are You Going?

published 9/6/2019

“Almost Heaven”-WV–view of Cumberland, MD in the far distance.

My brother Pat and myself (author, advocate, speaker) in Wiley Ford, WV.

published 9/6/2019

It is always nice to visit back home. There is no place like WV~~”Almost Heaven”. I got to visit there last week. I often ride past where we once lived. The house is long gone as the State took it when they put in the new road. I can’t help thinking, and I often told my children in times past, when we would ride over the exact spot, where the road crossed over what was once my childhood bedroom. It was always a strange feeling to realize that the then “Welcome to West Virginia” sign pierced through where once I had slept. On my drive back, I saw a sign on a tractor-trailer that said, “How far are you going?” and then in smaller print, “How far do you want to go?” It got me to thinking on this. How far are we going in life? And how far do we really want to go? We often gauge this by what the world and society deem as successful and important. But I truly feel this is not a reliable gauge. How far do we really want to go to just be the person that God purposed us to be? All the accolades aside, all the barometers of what success is or isn’t, what really matters is what is in our heart, and the lives that we impact. How far are you going? How far do you want to go? We all have the potential to make a difference, to brighten the corner where we are, to touch the heart of those around us. It all comes back to us—our choices. So often, I depend on this verse to get me where I am going–”Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, This is the way walk you in it, when you turn to the right hand and when you turn to the left.” Isaiah 30:21 How far am I going? As far as God will lead me on this awesome journey of life. Visited a Prison Boot Camp and spoke to about 140 men and women inmates while away. I am always touched by how one thread of hope can change a life forever. God Bless you on your journey……

 copyright marsha barth 2019

An Act of Kindness….

published 8/25/19

On my way to my son’s house we pass a beautiful old barn. The wood is gray and worn, the windows are broken, and it has a good 30% lean on its foundation. And yet it has weathered the test of time, and through all its brokenness, refuses to fall. It radiates a beauty that only age and time can produce. Beauty is often perceived in how we see it. Every day, in our journey of life, we pass the wounded and broken, those hurting and in pain. We see them at work, at school, at the grocery store, and even in our churches. They often don’t say a word, but we can see their fear, the lack of trust, and often the anger in their eyes. But what can we do? A kind smile, a silent prayer, any gesture of kindness could touch a life forever. They may not respond. They may silently or openly rebuff you, or walk away. But they may not commit suicide that day. They may not overdose that day. Maybe just one act of kindness could touch a heart forever. Finished teaching eighth week of “Victim to Victor” course at Teen Challenge this week.

copyright marsha barth 2019

The Cliff~~~

published 7/28/2019

In my books “The Shattering” and “The Shattering II”, I share many precious memories. Some are happy and some are sad. I had a favorite place of refuge during some of those sad times. It was the “cliff”. Often, I would go there to search out my heart, poor my soul out to God, or to clear my mind. Throughout the years now, that I have spoken at prisons, rehabs and recovery, churches, colleges, universities, and at state events and venues, I often tell this story. “I lived in a three-room house, not to be mistaken for a three-bedroom-house. The bathroom was 150′ up the hill, the horseshoe pegs farther up another 150′, and the cliff that went straight down another 150′ past the horseshoes.” Laughing, I continue, “We learned at a very young age to not chase the ball after the horseshoe pegs.” Often asked if I was afraid of the cliff, I answered, “No. I was more afraid of the outhouse.” When asked why? I would explain laughing, “Because they cut the holes in the outhouse to fit big people. I used to have nightmares of falling down the outhouse more than the cliff.” The cliff let me see that the world was a big place, where new horizons go on forever. It let me see that the promises of God reached much further than the circumstances of my life were dictating to me at that time. Far beyond the vast mountains, past the horizon, lie a hope. A hope that could not be seen, but a hope that God had placed in my heart during those most troublesome years of my childhood. God is not only a God of today~~But He is a God of our tomorrows. Past the hurt, pain, and confusion, He is the beacon that shines in our night, giving us a hope that is ever present and forever on our horizon. Currently, I am teaching the “Victim to Victor” study at Teen Challenge. For more information concerning the books or speaking venues, please feel free to contact me at [email protected]

copyright marsha barth 2019

Rainbow Promises…..

published 07/10/2019

I love rainbows—that beautiful spear of brilliant colors piercing the dark clouds and reminding us always that God is always in the midst of our storms. Can there be a more beautiful display or reminder of the promises of hope that we have and are given, from a God who truly loves us and cares about our deepest struggles? A few weeks ago, Mike and I were heading to the hospital for his surgery. There was a light rain drizzling down from the dismal dark gray clouds, which seemed to reflect the mood of our hearts at that time. No one likes to go into surgery. There are always a million “ifs” ricocheting through your mind. But as we continued to drive, and talked about the pending day, there before us, bright and beautiful, appeared the most beautiful rainbow. Instead of a brilliant bow, it was more like an arrow piercing through the dark clouds that now were etched in the light of the rising sun. It was not just the beauty that was before us that gripped our hearts, but the great reminder of the promise that shone before us–a reminder of all the promises that God has given to us, and Who has fulfilled every one of them, throughout the many years that we have walked together with Him. “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise,” 2 Peter 3:9 Mike is still recovering but is doing well. Do you have a promise?? A promise that is steadfast and sure? One that cannot fail you? Tomorrow is as bright as the promises of God. I see them ever unfolding before me and reminding me that God’s ear is not heavy that He cannot hear, nor his arm short that He cannot save.
Taught the men at Teen Challenge—week #3 on the study “Going from Victim to Victor” I see God’s beautiful promises for each and every one of their lives….Rainbow Promises.

copyright marsha barth 2019

In the Eye of the Storm…..

published 7/11/2019

I hear the loud rumble of thunder. I look up and see white bellowing clouds etched in bright sunlight. They move quickly across the sky as if fleeing the deep gray clouds that are tumbling towards them. Crack—and then another clap of thunder catches my attention. I stop and look up into the majestic sky. There is no rain. I cannot see the lightning, but I know a storm is coming. When I was a child, thunder terrified me. But now, I can hardly take in the splendor of the beautiful canvas that hangs above me. A portrait painted by the Master’s hand—majestic and strong. Now, I can see and know that just one touch of the Master’s hand can still the mighty storms that come my way. I have learned not to fear as the storm clouds of life gather round me, or the loud thunder rages, or the lightning pierces through the darkness. All is well, for in the darkest night or fiercest storm, you will always see Jesus walking in the midst, with His arms stretched out to love and carry us in the eye of the storm. Spoke and taught session two of “Victim to Victor” with the men at Teen Challenge on Tuesday.

copyright marsha barth 2019

Beautiful Roses~~

published 6/17/2019

There are no need for words when a child lights up the room with their laughter. There are no need for words when you stand beside the bed of a loved one for the last time. There are no need for words when the bride and groom walk down the aisle together, arm in arm, love as one. There are no need for words as the sound of the morning chorus of songbirds usher in a new day. There are no words to describe when you look into the depth of another person’s soul and see the spark of Hope where despair once was. Oh, the beauty of life–to see the beauty of a rose, rather than feel the thorns that surround them. May we on life’s journey, search out the beauty of the rose, and may we have the courage to reach out and rescue it from the thorns that hold it in its tight grasp. Taught the 4th session of “Victim to Victor” at Teen Challenge this week and also visited and spoke with our team at the Lebanon County Correctional Center. There I meet so many beautiful roses.

copyright marsha barth 2019

“Just One Touch…”

published 6/12/2019

As I drove down the road the other day, there stood a little squirrel in the road. He turned his head frantically to the right and to the left, as if he was looking for cars. Then he stopped and lowered his body and head to his little friend who lay on the road not moving. He nudged his little friend, but he did not move. He nudged him again harder, but he still not move. He stood up again and looked right and then left and then frantically tried to tug on his little friend as if to say, “the cars are gone now; come on get up, before another car comes.” To watch this unselfish act of love of another creature as he earnestly tried to help his little mate and friend, moved my heart with compassion. We cannot know, how a simple act of kindness can impact a life forever; one kind smile, one encouraging word, one touch of understanding. I visit and speak at many prisons, rehabs, re-entries and recovery centers. Sometimes, I feel like that little squirrel. I just want to nudge them one more time to get up, before it is too late. But sometimes they just don’t or can’t respond. We must never give up to reaching out to those who need our help; that one kind smile, that one encouraging word, that one touch of understanding can change a life forever. It did mine. I visited and spoke at Teen Challenge-Week 2 of the series, “Going from Victim to Victor.”
“But the Master comes, And the foolish crowd, never can quite understand, The worth of a soul, and the change that is wrought, By just one touch of the Masters’ Hand.”( Myra Brooks Welch)

copyright marsha barth 2019

Beautiful Bouquets……

published 6/2/2019

They started by bringing me the clover flowers. It wasn’t intended to be a bouquet. They picked them not by beauty but by the ones that had the sweetest aroma. One pink petunia, that shouldn’t have been picked from their yard, was added and brightened the bouquet. And then the flowers from the Dogwood, well, they were just there, and had to be added, and they were allowed to pick these. Whether it is sitting on the grassy bank and watching my older grandchildren play hockey together, or teaching them how to make blades of grass whistle, or collecting flowers with the younger ones, these are the beautiful bouquets of life. Bouquets that make the heart smile. When we say a kind word to someone who doesn’t deserve it, when we give a smile to the elderly sitting in the mall, when we give up the right to be right because it benefits no one, when we help others with love and there is nothing for us to gain, oh, these are the beautiful bouquets of life. May someone shower you with some beautiful bouquets today. And may you shower someone with beautiful bouquets today also. Will visit and speak at Teen Challenge on Tuesday, June 4. This is a closed event.

copyright marsha barth 2019

Ouch! That Hurts!

published 5/28/2019

Years ago, when we had our Garden Center, we had a beautiful wisteria that bloomed this time of year. It was so dynamic that people would stop in, just to ask what it was. Every spring it would bloom its large weeping cluster of purple blooms and scream with its vibrant colors-”Spring is here”. Every year, my husband pruned it until I thought for sure, he’d kill it. It was continually fed and watered throughout the year, and every spring it would reward us with this beautiful shower of blooms, filling the air with its fragrance. I happened to drive past there not long ago, and glanced to see its flowers, but there were hardly any. The foliage had gone crazy, but there were few flowers and they looked lost and forlorn in the tangled mass of green. It got me to thinking that this is what happens when things aren’t pruned, fed,or taken care of. All things need to be pruned and fed to grow and produce flowers and fruit. We need pruned too. “Every branch in me that bears not fruit God takes away: and every branch that bears fruit, God purges it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” John 15:2 We don’t like to be pruned. We like to enjoy our pleasures and never feel pain. We live in a society that seems to proclaim that we should never suffer or feel pain. We have a pill for every ache. And, although, I don’t enjoy pain at all, I have learned that pain is not our enemy. Pain, whether physical or emotional, is a warning sign to us that there is something wrong and that we need to take care of the source of the pain. Even as believers, we do not get a free pass on pain. We will be pruned, sometimes severely. And we must be fed the right food. We cannot be left to our own devices and go our own way-numbing the pain, and never dealing with its cause. The beauty of it all, is that the more we are pruned, the more fruit we produce. And if we have a wise “Gardener”, He knows exactly how much to prune from us without it killing us. Roses still bloom again, after a harsh winter, and a heavy pruning, and we do too. We have to deal, to heal, to feel again. Visited women at Lebanon County Correctional Center with Theresa Johnson.

copyright marsha barth 2019

I Don’t Want to Forgive…

published 5/20/2019

My grandchildren love the sour patch candies, so for Easter I bought them Sour Patch Jellybeans. Personally, they are too sour for me. But there is something that bids us taste that which is sweet and sour. So it is with the subject of forgiveness, or rather unforgiveness. Often, when I talk on the importance of forgiveness, whether it be at a prison, a rehab, or at a church, I get the look. When people think that I do not understand or that I have no right to tell them this—I share my own story. (“The Shattering” and “The Shattering II”) What is forgiveness??? Forgiveness by definition is–a CHOICE to stop feeling angry or resentful toward (someone) for an offense, flaw, or mistake. It also means to release a debt. Forgiveness is simply a CHOICE. The problem is that by RIGHT, we often do not want to forgive. By RIGHT, the person who wronged you probably does not deserve your forgiveness. But the hardest thing about forgiving others is that so often we think that if we forgive them, we are saying it is okay in what they did to us. And this is not true. Forgiving someone is choosing to stop feeling angry or resentful towards them for what they did to you. You release them of the debt that they owe you for what they did to you. BUT, they are still accountable for what they have done. They are still accountable for the hurt and pain that they have caused you. Matthew 3:8-”Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance.” Mercy and Accountability walk hand in hand. So what do you choose today to do???? Do you choose to remain feeling angry and resentful towards the person that hurt you?? Or do you choose to give your hurt and pain and anger that they caused you to Jesus, and release them of the debt that they owe you? As long as you hang onto your hurt, pain, and anger, you will never be able to release forgiveness. See it always our choice– to remain in bondage—or to be set free. Taught at PAATC (Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge) Do you want to forgive?????? Re: “The Shattering” and “The Shattering II”

copyright marsha barth 2019

Bringing Wholeness to the Hopeless…

published 5/9/2019

“Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.” Helen Keller
The sun was brightly shining today and there was a soft breeze as I walked up the steep hill at PAATC (Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge). I had to get out my WV legs to climb it. I couldn’t help marvel at the beautiful setting that encompasses this organization’s campus. PAATC is a faith-centered organization committed to restoring wholeness to individuals and hope to families and communities impacted by substance abuse. I count it a pleasure to visit and speak to the clients. I am teaching a four-week study that I developed~~”Going from Victim to Victor” and will be teaching it to the clients there. PAATC’s Vision of Hope states it all…”Bringing Wholeness to the Hopeless.”

copyright marsha barth 2019

Mercy and Accountability Walk Hand in Hand….

published 5/3/2019

http://www.wfmz.com/…/south-heidelberg-holds-hea…/1073659364

As many of you know, I speak at many different venues. I have spoken for our state at various events. I have spoken for the University of Hawaii several times and to other college Criminology and Psychology students, for Child Advocacy centers, to the Maryland state’s Social Service Department, to foster parents and advocates. I only mention these because my favorite venues of all has always been to meet and talk to those in prisons, re-entry, maximum security facilities, re-hab and addiction recovery. Here I get to meet people and take them the healing message of hope and God’s love. But every so often, I run into a situation that demands ADVOCACY. And lately, there have been several situations. I find it unusual that so often I have to jump fences. On the one hand, my heart reaches out to those hurting and broken-whether in rehab or incarcerated. But then, I find myself on the other side of the fence, advocating for those who are adversely affected, and horribly impacted, by the crimes of those who are incarcerated. I found myself in that situation last night. I have spoken to those incarcerated across the country for the last 15 years, but never have I seen any facility set up and operated the way that the Wernersville Community Correctional Center is done. First of all, who in their right mind, would ever consider placing offenders, (violent offenders, sexual offenders and all others included) on the same campus with the mentally ill? I am talking about a campus, where last night, it was stated that 70% of the patients are allowed to go outside on the campus unsupervised, while residents from the Correctional Facility are also allowed to have free discourse outside, unsupervised on the same campus, and unsupervised off the campus. Remember these include all offenders, sexual offenders, violent offenders. There are no fences to separate them. The incidents and violations of the “Universal Code of Rules” are too many to list here, and yet nothing changes. What was originally instituted to be a safe release program and a parole violator center that would include “NO violent offenders, NO sexual offenders, NO violation that involved assaultive behavior or possession of a gun, and there could not exist any identifiable threat to public safety from any such parolee. Also offenders were not permitted to leave the center without an official escort.” This is quoted directly from their website as of November of 2016, which since then they have taken down. There is now no website for us to obtain information. Please note that these safeguards were still in place after the 2012 Act 122 was passed. The outcry of the community has went forth from the day that WCCC was first proposed, initiated, and set up in 2009. Every proclamation and promise that was ever given to the community has been rescinded or not followed through. They say they want to be a “good neighbor” and in the same breath say, but we are the state and “we are preempted by state law” which would give them the means to control over township law and preclude the township from enacting their laws. If at the very least this would assist, aid or help the offender it would merit a discussion. But it does not. Anyone who has worked with offenders can tell you that to set this facility up without sound structure and accountability only enables the offender, and sets him up for failure. No one wins in this type of situation. Everyone loses—the mental health patients, the offenders at the facility, the residents in the community. They are all being put at great risk and danger. WCCC is a powder keg just waiting to be ignited. We must always remember—that mercy and accountability must walk hand in hand.
http://www.wfmz.com/…/south-heidelberg-holds-hea…/1073659364

copyright marsha barth 2019

Unconditional Love….

published 4/27/2019

When my oldest grandson was young, he went to school one day and told his teacher that his grandma was going to prison. I wanted my grandson to understand that prison was not just full of bad people, but that it also had many broken people too; people that were lost and sad, hopeless and shattered. So after church one day, on the way home, I pointed out to him the prison that I visited. He asked why I went there and I explained that though all of them had done wrong, they still needed to know that Jesus loved them and that Jesus could forgive them and change their lives. He probably thought it was a nice thing to share with his teacher, “that his gramma, was going to prison.” Fortunately, most of the teachers knew us at that time, from our business. Most of them were customers of ours. The teacher mentioned it to my daughter with a smile, and she explained, that I “visited” the prisons. She did tell me later though, “Mom, you got to quit telling him you’re going to prison.” But all of my grandchildren know now that I go into the prisons. And all of them have a pretty good idea why. You see—God’s unconditional love can change a life forever. None of us are ever the same again when the Savior first touches us with His love. “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without someone to tell them?” Romans 10:14. Visited and spoke with our team on Monday, April 22, at the Lebanon County Correctional Center.

copyright marsha barth 2019

“Laughy Daffys”…..

published 4/19/2019

I love “Laughy Daffys, as my husband calls them. They seem to scream, “Spring is here”! They can be covered with snow and yet their yellow heads will bob up, laughing at winter as it tries to hang on. Daffodils are the true smiley faces of all the flowers, I do believe. How can you look at a daffodil and not smile? They are a reflection of hope that winter season is truly past. They bring promise that a new season has begun. They are as sure as the rainbow that appears after a cloudy stormy day. And so are the promises of God. They are not mere words given to just encourage us, but they are words that are sure and steadfast. Have you ever received a promise from God that required you to stand on it even when all of your circumstances screamed out at you that it was impossible for it to come true? God wants to do just that for you. He has given me many promises.

One of my favorites is the promise He gave me when I was pregnant with my son. I had fallen down the steps, and thought for sure that I’d lose him. A few days later, I fell again and the cramps increased. I had gotten prayed for but the next day on the way to work our little Chevy Chevette was hit by a truck. I went home with the cramps increasing, sure that after five long years of waiting that I would lose this child. So, I went to my Bible and asked God to give me a promise and I opened up to Isaiah 44…. “Thus says the Lord that made you….I will help you, fear not…for I will pour my spirit upon your seed, and my blessings upon your offspring…and they shall spring up among the grass, as willows by the water courses.”

And truly God fulfilled this promise, and my son, my first born, my only son was born. But four years later, almost to the day, we were dealing with another situation. My son had quit breathing, he had been miraculously revived, but no one knew if he would suffer brain damage as they rushed him in an ambulance to the hospital. I had jumped in the back of the ambulance and watched his little body breathing slowly. But he went into another episode and the paramedic panicked as once again she tried to revive him with no response. I did not remember the promise that God had given me those years before, but I did feel His loving presence come over me as I watched, frozen in the moment. The most loving voice spoke to my heart as my mind refused to think… “Will you still serve me, if I take him home?” I felt like I was in a trance, like I wasn’t really there, because he still was not breathing. And then a peace came over me, and my heart spoke because my mind couldn’t. “He was yours Lord, before He was mine.” Instantly, he took a breath and began to breath again. It wasn’t until the next day that we learned that he had no brain damage as he sat on the hospital bed and put together a 100 piece Mickey Mouse puzzle that his daddy had given him. And yet, I still did not remember the promise that God had given me those years before. It wasn’t until he was scheduled to go to the Philadelphia Children’s Hospital shortly thereafter for more follow-up tests, that I went out to the rocking chair one night after everyone was asleep and cried out to God, “I need a promise”. I reached for my Bible and opened it up at random, and my eyes fell on a scripture that I had underlined four years before. It was the date that I had written in my Bible beside it, that caught my eye. It was dated almost four years to the date. I began to read the scriptures and the tears poured out of my eyes and down my cheeks. “Thus says the Lord that made you….I will help you, fear not…for I will pour my spirit upon your seed, and my blessings upon your offspring…and they shall spring up among the grass, as willows by the water courses.” Isaiah 44. And in the stillness of the night, I heard His sweet voice in my heart say, “The promise still stands. It has not changed from the day that I gave it to you. He will grow up as the willows by the water ways.” As we went through this journey-everything screamed out against that promise. Medical wanted to put him on medicine that would have caused him to become sterile. We thought it was too extreme and refused. But they threatened us that if it happened again, they would make the state make us give him the medicine. But he got well. And he grew up to be a fine young man. And now he has six beautiful sons and one beautiful daughter. Satan said, “I will take your son, your only son.” And God said, “I will bless your offspring and they shall spring up among the grass, as willows by the water ways. There is nothing more beautiful than the promises of God, steadfast and sure. They cannot fail or fall short. They always usher in another season of our lives—just like the “Laughy Daffys”.

copyright marsha barth 2019

Remembering Gracie Packer…..

published 4/13/2019

I have been told by people that they cannot read my books because it gives them nightmares. This only astounds me because we cannot change what we won’t confront; both as a society and as individuals. I’m asking everyone to read the below—This was Gracie’s nightmare—you wake up from yours—she never did. April is National Child Abuse Prevention month-Please read this in remembrance of Gracie:

Gracie was 2½ years old when she was removed from her family’s home and placed in foster care in Berks County, Pa. She was 3, when she was put in foster care with Sara and David Packer. Sara was Supervisor at Northampton County’s Youth and Family Division. In 2006, when Gracie is 5 years old, David Packer causes indecent assault on Gracie. Gracie was 5½ years old when the Packers adopted her in 2007. By 2008, David Packer, Gracie’s adoptive father was investigated by Scranton CYF for physically abusing Gracie-now 6 years old. NO CHARGES are filed. In 2010 when Gracie is 8½ years old, Lehigh County initiates a criminal investigation into David Packer. On July of 2010, David Packer, is charged with indecent assault on Gracie from the 2006 incident. 4 years after the fact, he is charged. Gracie lives in this household these 4 years. It is important to note that the sexual assault was in 2006 and Gracie was adopted by the Packers in 2007. On June of 2011, David Packer pleads guilty to indecent assault in Gracie’s case and statutory sexual assault in another case on one of his other foster children. He is sentenced to ONLY 18 months-to 5 years, and goes to jail. Sara Packer is not charged but is “indicted” in an abuse case, meaning her name is placed on Childline-she had since been terminated from her job. Gracie is 9 and 10 years old when she goes through this ordeal. She continues to live with Sara Packer until at 12 years old she is placed in a residential treatment facility, Warwick House near Doylestown, PA in Bucks County. She goes back to her home with Sara Packer after that and finishes 7th grade at Vantage Academy, a Montgomery County alternative school. Shortly, thereafter she once again is placed back in Warwick House. She is now 13 years old. In 2015 Gracie is sent to North Carolina to live with a Packer cousin and attends part of 8th and 9th grades there. Sadly, in November of 2015, when Gracie is now just 14 years old she is returned to Pennsylvania to live with her adoptive mother-Sara Packer and her boyfriend-Jacob Sullivan. It is at this time according to court records that both Sarah Packer and Jacob Sullivan begin to plan how to kill Gracie. On July 4, 2016 Gracie attends a family picnic in Laury’s Station. On July 8, 2016, Sara Packer and Jacob Sullivan take Gracie to a home in Richland Township. They take her to the hot attic of the house where they bind, gag, and drug Gracie. Sullivan rapes her as Sara Packer watches and listens to Gracie’s screams and pleadings for her mom to stop him. They then leave her in a hot attic closet to die. Somehow, Gracie’s strong spirit survives the ordeal. She is miraculously able to free herself from the plastic ties. But she is unable to get out of the attic. When Sullivan and Sara return 12 hours later, they find Gracie still alive. Sullivan strangles her, and they place her body in cat liter and leave it there. Sara Packer then reports Gracie missing to Abington Township Police, Montgomery County. Sara buys a bow saw and 2 blades in Bucks County and dismembers Gracie’s body and disperses it in Luzerne County where it is soon found by hunters.

I write this, because Gracie’s voice deserves to be heard. Her story deserves to be read. We talk so strongly about giving a child a VOICE. But what happens when that child finds their voice and they speak out and yet no one hears, and the system fails them. The course of Gracie’s life spanned Berks County, Northampton County, Lackawanna County, Lehigh County, Bucks County, Montgomery County. That is 6 counties in PA, that had a chance to intervene for Gracie. Not 6 times but 6 counties, and she fell through the cracks of every single one of them. Sadly, Gracie’s story is not rare, or in many cases even less severe. You see, it is not enough to give a child a voice, if we are not going to be there to hear their cry for help. The child thinks they are going to be rescued and so often, so many times, they end up back in the home with their perpetrators. We gave Gracie a voice-she spoke up-but her cries fell on death ears. She fell through the cracks of a very fractured system. The question today is not so much why don’t children speak up—but are we going to hear their voice??? It is not enough to look at how far we have come. We need to look at how far we need to go. Marsha Barth

Remembering Gracie at the Crime Victims Rally in Harrisburg, Monday April 8, 2019.

copyright 2019 Marsha Barth

“The Shattering II” and “The Shattering”….

published 4/5/2019

Had another great blog interview with Lena Nelson Dooley on “A Christian Writer’s World.” This interview was for my second book–“The Shattering II-‘Breaking the Silence'”. Visit this link and enter the contest for a free book- https://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/2019/04/the-shattering-ii-marsha-barth-one-free.html

Lena Nelson Dooley’s blog interview and talk show reaches approximately 65,000 people per month.

How Far Can You See????

published 3/30/2019

I love a quote that Winston Churchill said years ago, “The farther backward you can look, the farther forward you are likely to see.” To go forward, we need to see clearly. And so often our vision is clouded or blocked unknowingly by the shadows of our past.The Bible says it this way, “…that we are to lay aside the weight and sin that so easily besets us and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.” Heb. 12:1 And that “we are a new creature in Christ: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Cor. 5:17 Truly, “the farther backward we can look, the farther forward we will be likely to see.” Will be speaking at St. Daniel’s Lutheran Church located at 480 Big Spring Rd, Robesonia, PA 19551 on March 31, this Sunday, at 10:15 a.m for the Adult Bible Study on “Going from Victim to Victor”. All are welcome-Sunday worship begins at 9:00 a.m. My thanks to Terry Williams and Pastor George Detweiler for arranging this. Book signing also-“The Shattering” and “The Shattering II”

copyright Marsha Barth 2019

The Smiling Angel….

published 3/28/2019

I have an angel that sits at the entrance of my driveway. It is a realistic angel with a pure round cherub face. I have seen it many times as I enter, but only a few weeks ago when it was covered with snow did I take a closer look. I brushed the snow off of its head and shoulders and kind of said, “There you go little fellow.” As, I looked at him, I smiled. He had a smile on his face. I had never noticed that. Not a corny smile, but a faint Mona Lisa smile. He sits there every day, welcoming us home with that gentle smile, through the rain, in the storms, the snow and ice, and in the darkest night. Kind of sad, I had never noticed this. Even more so, what if we could see the Savior’s face, with that same gentle smile, bidding us to draw near Him, to rest upon His breast, welcoming us home, through the storms, in the snow and ice, in our darkest night. So often we miss His smile…..His tender touch, His loving presence… We are the children of God. “Come unto me you that are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 Visited and spoke at the Lebanon County Correctional Center with our great team the other night.

copyright 2019 marsha barth

“The Shattering”

published 3/20/2019

Great blog interview with Lena Nelson Dooley on “A Christian Writer’s World ~~ Characters Who Grip Your Heart.” Visit https://lenanelsondooley.blogspot.com/
to read the interview and to enter for a chance to win a free copy of “The Shattering”.Lena Nelson Dooley is an award-winning, multi-published Christian novelist, screenwriter, and hosts The Lena Nelson Dooley Show on the “Along Came a Writer” network on Blog Talk Radio which reaches approximately 65,000 people per month. Thank you Lena for the opportunity to interview with you and to share this message of Hope. Enter now while contest is still open. Scroll down to the bottom of the article and push comment button to enter the contest.

The Nightingale’s Song….

published 3/4/2019

I walk outside and the chill of winter goes right through me. I grab the snow shovel and feel the cold wind on my face. Everything around me screams that it is winter. I hear the snowplow coming down the road. I feel my fingers begin to ache with the numbness from the cold. It is winter. Or is it? As I pause for a minute to take my breath, I hear the most pleasant sound. It is the sound of song birds. They are singing loudly and earnestly, as if to say, “it is no longer winter”. Their song echos through the mountainside in a chorus of melody, singing, “it is spring, it is spring”. It makes me smile. Yes, these are the spring birds, already singing their song. It makes no difference what I am seeing, or what I am feeling, what I am hearing is that it is spring. Do you feel you are in the depth of a cold winter season? Does everything you see and feel tell you that your winter will never end? Stop and listen. What do you hear? Can you hear the spring birds singing their song? Sometimes, we cannot go by what we see, or even what we feel. We cannot determine by today’s circumstances what our tomorrow will bring. Sometimes, we must listen to that still small voice of God that says, “roses will bloom again”. Do not proclaim tomorrow’s despair by today’s circumstances. To do this is to proclaim death and to lose hope and to forsake love. Even in our deepest sorrows, there is still love. It is the love that comforts us and is ever binding and lets us know that there are some things that never pass away. It is the love that brings us joy in the morning. And it is love that is the faintest flickering light in our darkest hour. The flickering light of love is so faint that in our darkness, often we can not see or feel it. It is then that we hear the sweetness of the nightingale who sings his purest song in our midnight hour. Listen carefully and you will see that even in our darkness our heart can hear a song. “Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness”. Colossians 1:13 “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.”Rev. 21:4 “Love never fails. Love never ends. Love conquers all”. 1 Corinthians 13:8 God’s love is the nightingale’s song in our night letting us know that morning is nigh.
I WILL BE A GUEST SPEAKER FOR CELEBRATION RECOVERY ON FRIDAY MARCH 8, 2019, at Faith Fellowship Church-Rt. 422-Cleona (Lebanon) PA. ALL ARE WELCOME — WE ALL HAVE SOMETHING THAT WE NEED TO RECOVER FROM–HURT, PAIN, LIFE. Fellowship meal at 6:30. Topic will be -“Going from Victim to Victor”. For more information please contact Nate Johnson at 717-507-9314

copyright 2019

Satan Has No Hold on You!

published 2/28/2019

Years ago, when my oldest grandchild was small, he mentioned in grade school, and to his teacher, that Gramma was going to prison. Fortunately, most of the community knew my husband and I from the business we ran for 27 years and they knew that I wasn’t really going to prison. But, I wanted my grandchildren to know the plight of others. We had always passed by the prison on our way home from church and I had pointed it out to him on several occasions. It had made an impression on his young heart. Though, God has opened many opportunities for me to speak at many venues, for the state of PA, to College Criminology and Psychology students, for the University of Hawaii, and Child Advocacy, and many other venues across the country, my heartfelt venues to speak at has always been the prisons, re-entry, rehabs and recovery. I was thankful last night for the opportunity to visit and speak at Teen Challenge. This is a phenomenal Christian based recovery center founded by David Wilkerson. In sharing with a client afterwards, I told him that Satan has no hold on you. What a wonderful facility that allows me to proclaim this to those that are in bondage and who want to be set free. And, Satan has no hold on you. “If the Son therefore shall make you free, you shall be free indeed.” John 8:36 “Come unto me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 “Casting all your cares upon him; for He cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7 Satan has no hold on you!

He’s Always in Our Midst….

published 2/26/19

I was driving down the highway the other day to be with a friend who was gravely ill. My heart was troubled on every side. As I glanced up at the back of a tractor trailer, I saw the words, “Trust in God”. Three simple words, that brought my heart immediate peace. God is always in our midst. I wonder how often we miss the signs of His presence. Went in to the Lebanon County Prison last evening with our team. When asking the inmates, what do they do with their hurt, pain, and anger, the most common answer was, “numb it”. We have to deal, to heal, to feel again. Rather than numb it, why not give our hurt, pain, and anger to God? “A broken and a contrite heart, God will not refuse.” Psalm 51:17. Many of us today are not behind prison walls; and yet we are imprisoned just as assuredly as those who are– in our hearts, and souls, and spirit, by the weights, sins and hurts of this world. “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 He’s always in our midst……

copyright 2019

The Child Within….

published 2/13/2019

I love the stillness of the night where there is no noise, and the quietness penetrates into my being. There, I can sort out the heaviness of life and hear the Lord’s still small voice speak to my heart. Here, I can dwell in “the secret place”, and “abide under the shadow” of the One who loves me most. “Our greatest natural resource is the minds of our children,” Walt Disney once said. I can’t help think of his statement every time that I go into the prisons, rehabs, and recovery programs. Every time that I speak and look deep into the eyes of those that are captive or broken. They were once all children. Sometimes, when I look into their eyes, that are fixed on every word that I am saying, I get a glimpse of the lost child within. I wait, as I speak, for that moment, when I see God’s love and reality touch their soul and then see what the hand of God can do for the lost and broken. As the tears flow down their cheeks, their eyes begin to fill with Hope. This Hope is not a mere wish, but “The Hope”. The love of a Jesus, touching their heart, sometimes for the first time in their lives. This is the Hope “that is steadfast and sure, an anchor of the soul.” It is a new beginning for them, a new season. “Behold all things are become new, behold old things are passed away.” I was blessed to speak to the women at the Orlando Community Release Center, in Orlando, Florida. My sincere thanks to Assistant Warden Carol Casimir, Officer Elaine Richmond and Lieutenant Betty Starks and the many others that made this visit possible.

copyright Marsha Barth 2019

A Still Small Voice….

published 1/18/2019

I was on my way to an advocacy meeting the other day and was pondering many things as I drove the long drive. Anyone who works in this field knows the heartbreaking statistics and the sorrow of doing too little too late. But, I am continually reminded that “Evil can only prevail, when good people do nothing.”The question is not only, how we prevent and bring awareness of abuse, but how do we also reach the broken and shattered and let them know that they truly can take a healing journey and be made whole again. As, I was driving and concentrating on the heavy traffic, I had an unusual thing happen. It was only for a fleeting second, but impossible to miss. Truly, things have to hit me right on sometime to get my full attention, and this did. Out of nowhere a big white bird flew right in front of my vehicle. What struck me, was his beautiful wingspan that spread before me majestically. With one quick fleeting moment, he swooped down in front of my vehicle and then just as quickly, gracefully flew away, his white wings spread beautifully, and then he just disappeared. I can’t explain it, because such moments are mysteries to our soul, but my spirit lifted immediately. As if, God’s redeeming peace and love on the wings of a white dove assured me, that He is in our midst always. Sometimes it is the still small voice that awakens our heart. “But the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire, and after the fire, a still small voice. 1 Kings 19:11-12

copyright Marsha Barth 2019

Prisoner of the Heart~~~

published 1/10/2019

The other evening, as our team went to visit in the Lebanon Correctional Facility, the atmosphere did not change much from the dismal rain outside, to the clouds of heaviness that hang over those in prison. We signed in and listened for the buzzer to open the heavy iron door. We waited for it to clang shut, before hearing the buzzer to open the next door. This is prison. We greeted the women that entered, happy to see some of them light up at our presence. I looked into the depths of each women’s eyes as I spoke and saw so many things—hurt, pain, sorrow, sadness, loneliness, brokenness, remorse, hopelessness, anger, hardness, resentment, frustration, discouragement. Long gone or buried too deep to see, is the joy, hope, peace, love, happiness, trust, goodness, laughter, and comfort that they might have once known, or maybe that they have never truly known. I realize, as I speak to them, that the prison that that they are in is not the windowless concrete walls that surround us, but the prison of their own heart. I see God chisel at these prison walls, as each member of our team, gets up and speaks to them. You see the chains of their prison begin to fall as their eyes glisten with tears, and a new Hope begins to rise in those same eyes. What prison are you in? There are so many. The prison of grief, loneliness, hurt, pain, anger and so many more. Jesus came to set the captives free. “Bring my soul out of prison,” Psalm 142:7 is the cry of all of our hearts. If we are to live in any prison—let us be prisoners of HOPE. “Turn you to the strong hold, you prisoners of hope: even to day do I declare that I will render double unto thee” Zechariah 9:12

copyright Marsha Barth 2019

What Did Christmas Mean to You?….

published 1/7/2019

Now that some of the frenzied duties of Christmas have settled, maybe once again, we can take a look at what Christmas means to us. Sitting with a cup of warm tea or coffee and looking at the Christmas cards sent from those who love us and truly care, or sitting back and smiling at the new memories and lives we are touching, as well as remembering those that we miss so very much. Christmas is so much more than a day, or even a season. Christmas is the birth of Hope Himself, born not only in a manger, but in the depths of our heart. It gives me so much joy watching all of my eight grandchildren enjoy and learn of what Christmas truly is. This year, it was our Matthew, who is three years old, who seemed to grasp this truth. He had a great learning experience this year. He seemed to soak every detail of Christmas in this year. He helped me make paper colored chains. And he enjoyed making gingerbread houses with his mommy and brothers and sister. But waiting until Christmas to eat them was a little more trying than he could bear. He did listen, and didn’t eat his gingerbread house. But that didn’t stop him from eating some of his brother Colin’s gingerbread house. Of course, with six of them, no one knew who had brought in the demolition crew to Colin’s house. So Colin diligently fixed it back up again, none too happy though. That night, when things got just a little too quiet, and you count and there is one missing, my son went to investigate. There they found Matthew, sitting in the dark, and yes, eating Colin’s gingerbread house again. This time, mommy and daddy made sure he knew the error of his ways, and Colin forgave him. When tucking them in to bed that night, Matthew voiced his revelation of the season. “Daddy, I know the true meaning of Christmas!” His Daddy smiled and waited. Matthew continued on excitedly, “The true meaning of Christmas is that it is Jesus’ Birthday and….. you don’t eat other people’s gingerbread houses.” As we pass another Christmas season, we ponder the joys and the sorrows that have come to us this year. “You that are weary and heavy laden, come unto Him, and He will give you rest.” We are entering a new year—we do not know what lies ahead, but like the old song says…. “Because, He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because He lives, all fear is gone. Because, I know He holds the future, and life is worth the living, just because He lives.
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OUR FRIENDS AND LOVED ONES!!!!

copyright Marsha Barth 2019

Where is Christmas Found???

published 12/20/18

The other day, we were driving down the highway. A light mist hung in the air, coating everything with a heavy gray mantle. The trees stripped of their leaves, stood bleak and lifeless, casting a dismal portrait, of where not long ago, the scenery had danced in vivid colors of red, orange and yellow, vibrant and full of beauty. The music filling the car seemed in deep contrast to this scene, a contradiction, a paradox of sorts. I turned to one of my grandsons in the back seat and said, “This is your favorite Christmas song, sing it with me.” His young voice, gleefully began to fill the air, with “Jingle Bell Rock”. My heart smiled and filled with joy. These precious unexpected moments, where you know the simplest things of life are etching a permanent joy on your heart forever. As we continued to drive, we passed orange cones set in the middle of the road. They were marked in dark black print—“funeral”. My heart ached at the impact and image that this one word invoked. Immediately, I thought of so many dear souls that are spending their Christmas without someone they loved dearly. A pain that is so great that it creates a gap in the heart, and drains the very soul of life and happiness. Where does one find Christmas when everything is stripped of the vibrancy of life and joy that once was? Where do we find the light that will show us the way? Christmas can only be found in our hearts. It cannot be found in the festivities of the season, or in Christmas’ past. Only in the depths of our heart, can Christmas be found. In our heart, where all the pain lingers and rents our very soul, where grief is born, and loss is irreplaceable, where peace and joy have been ripped from our very being~~this is where Christmas is truly found. For it is here, that the Comforter abides, if we will let Him come in. So often, there is still no room for Him in the inn. The inn of our heart. So often, He is kept afar, at an arm’s distance~~as if, lest His great comfort in relieving our pain, somehow would assuage the memory and presence of the loved one that we have lost. But in reality, as our grief heals, through this great Comforter, their presence and memory becomes more alive, because they are no longer cloaked with the grief of what was lost, but are cloaked in the joy of who they were. There is a Comforter who was born that Christmas day. “Behold, I stand at the door and knock: if any person will hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to him…” “they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them has the Light shined.” “For You have broken the yoke of their burden,” “For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given:… and His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.” Rev. 3:20, Isaiah 9

copyright Marsha Barth 2018

What Would You Do?

published 12/2/18

A person, I know dearly, shared with me a story the other day. They were in a store and a little boy got lost. He had blond hair and was only four years old. The store was amazing and went into full shut down, securing all the doors and initiating an immediate search. They looked everywhere for over 20 minutes and could not find him. Suddenly, a person heard a small voice in the distance, calling out, “Mommy, Mommy.” Following the sound of his voice, they called back to him, but he became silent. The search continued and they heard his small voice again, “Mommy, Mommy,” he cried out desperately. But as soon as the men called back to him, he became silent. The last time that he called out, a customer heard him before he became silent again, and found him hiding in a bin. Everyone was so happy and excited. The customer picked up the little boy to comfort him. No one knew where the mother was, but the father came and took the boy. He then began to yell at the boy fiercely, telling him that he was going to be really punished when he got home for causing all of this trouble. The boy cried uncontrollably as the police left and the father took the boy home. We can often know more of what is being said, by what is not said. We can often see more of what is going on, by what we do not seeing gone. I have grandsons that very age. I know how adventurous my boys are-but this story did not add up. Believing in discipline ourselves, I know how my husband and myself would have responded differently. First of all, as a mother, wild horses could not have dragged me from that store, in a disappearing act, without my child. And second, my husband would’ve been the first one to sweep our son up and hug him until through tears he would release his embrace. Surely, we would talk to him and explain the dangers later. But who would not rejoice that your child was lost and now is found. Why did the little boy cry out to be found, only to recoil in silence when he heard a man’s voice? Why did he remain hidden when he wanted so bad to be found? Why was he not glad to see his daddy? Was it adventure that led him to hide or was it fear? What would you do???? I don’t know what is sadder, or more discouraging-the boy crying as he left the store, or the point that others seemed to dismiss it as a simple child’s prank. See, until we start looking at what is happening right before our eyes, things can never change. But, others say, maybe he was just being a little boy. Do little boys cry in fear when they are found? Don’t little boys hug their daddy when found? Wouldn’t daddy’s hug their little boys when found? Do little boys get yelled at and told they are going to be really punished when they get home when found? Remember, he was four years old. Is this the way you would have reacted if your child was lost and then found? We are all different, even as parents. But one thing remains constant in all good parenting—we love our children and they love us. When red flags arise-and something does not seem right, we need to act. We may say-but wonder if I’m wrong? The bigger question is-but wonder if you are right???? Call ChildLine 1-800-932-0313 to report suspected child abuse or general child well-being concerns. Childline takes all calls anonymously. You do not have to give your name or any identifying information. Also, please note-you do not have to prove abuse, you only report what you suspect and your concerns. Childline will respond to your call and have an investigation done. If there are no problems, the parents are not harmed or discredited in any way. If a problem is found, you change a life forever. Never look the other way. We all can make a difference. What would you do???? CHILDLINE: 1-800-932-0313

copyright Marsha Barth 2018

Setting the Captives Free…

published 11/27/2018

We hear the loud clank as the large iron door unlocks before us. We enter, and then hear the door shut behind us with another loud bang. The next door is the same and we enter through it and walk down the long hallway hearing once again the door clang loudly as it shuts behind us. Later that evening, one woman cries that she has lost everything and that she prays, but feels that God does not hear her. I don’t know what rings louder in my ears; the sound of the iron doors closing with finality, or the earnest cry from a broken heart. This is the sad reality of prison and it’s hopelessness. I spoke to them on how we overcome by the “blood of the lamb”. My friend spoke on “knowing your identity in Christ”. We have such a short time to bring to them–Hope, Truth, and the Love of a Savior who truly cares for them amidst these prison walls. To tell them about a Jesus, Who can set them free from the bondage of sin and the prison of their hearts and minds. And then, as we are playing the song “You Say, by Lauren Daigle”–my eyes meet directly with one of the young women. She smiles and gently nods as she looks deep into my eyes and receives the words of the song into her heart. We close in prayer asking any who want to pray to come forward. “Come unto Me, you that are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest…” Visited the Lebanon Correctional Facility last night. “a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.”

copyright Marsha Barth 2018

“A Wok in a Weary Wand”…

published 11/20/18

My son loved to sing when he was little. He actually began singing not long after he started talking. He had such a good memory, even then, that he amazed me in that he not only knew the words to the songs but the exact melodies. We lived in NJ at the time. It was a beautiful season of our life. But like all seasons of life, there were hard times too. I stood at the sink one day doing dishes and looked outside the window. The picnic table sat under the little maple tree. Across the way, I could see the lake in the distance. My heart was weary, though, and I could not shake it. I wanted to, but the weariness just hung over me like a dark cloud. My grandma had just passed away, and my heart was troubled. Her death, brought back many memories of my childhood, both good and bad. God was beginning to tug at my heart for me to deal with my past. But it was too painful, and I didn’t see the need to confront it. I felt it was best left behind. But we never leave un-dealt with pain behind. It stays buried in a broken heart. We have to deal with what has caused the pain. We would never think twice if we cut ourselves, to just wipe away the blood and brush it off. We would wash the cut, nurture it, and treat it with antiseptic and put a bandaid on it. We would get stitches for it to heal, if it needed it. When we are hurt emotionally, we don’t do this, we try to just brush it aside, forget and ignore the pain. But we do not heal that way. We deal, to heal, to feel again. As, I stood there looking out the window, I felt a deep sorrow. My family that I loved was eight hours away and I was missing them and felt all alone. I felt God’s love call to my heart, for me to draw near to Him, so that He could give me comfort. I then heard a lovely sound coming from the dining room. It was my son singing. I still remember the words of the song to this day. “Je-sus is a Wok in a weary wand, a weary wand, a weary wand. Je-sus is a Wok in a weary wand, a selter in da time of storm.” As I turned to listen more carefully, he came into the kitchen, singing it again. I looked down at that little face, with those big blue eyes, with that big smile on his face, and my heart just lit up with joy. Yes, Jesus is the rock in a weary land. A shelter in the time of storm. And we must go forth and sing this new song to those who do not know this. While in Hawaii a few weeks ago, I was so blessed to be able to go to “The Aloha House”, a co-residential treatment facility for addiction and recovery. My heart is always touched by the sincerity and hunger of the people who grab onto this wonderful truth and hope—that Jesus is the rock in a weary land, in the time of the storms of our life. I was just sent this link on an article published yesterday in “The Maui News” concerning my visit there. God’s healing and delivering power are greater than our brokenness. “Come unto me, you that are weary and heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Victim of childhood sexual abuse shares powerful message

“The Aloha House”….

published 11/5/2018

The Aloha House was my last event while on Maui. “The Aloha House”, is a residential recovery house that enables men and women to have a safe place to heal and recover from addiction. Years ago, when I started to do this work, I told my husband Mike what I have experienced every time I visit venues such as the prisons, recovery, and re-entry. When I go in to speak, no one knows me, nor me them. I understand the look that says, “you are all cleaned up, how can you know my life and what I feel, what can you tell me…” And then, as I talk with them, God moves on their heart, because He is the One, who does know their life, hurt, pain, and feelings of hopelessness. To experience this every single time–to see a broken and shattered heart be touched by the love and reality of a God that truly loves them and to see many for the first time experience the Hope– that maybe they really do matter–brings my heart to tears and inspires me to go forward with God’s message of love and hope through every open door, as He leads the way. My sincere thanks for the hospitality, kindness, and support from all the clients and staff, Jud Cunningham, Michele Navarro Ishiki, Frances Duberstein, and Jamee Howell. In the last picture, the clients made me the lei, that I am wearing, in their appreciation for me coming. Below is a link to their article on the visit.

http://mbhr.org/index.php/2018/10/29/october-26-2018-inspirational-speaker-brings-hope-to-aloha-house/

“Mahalo”….

published 11/4/18

We don’t have a lot of bookstores left these days across our country, but at Barnes and Noble in Kahului, HI you will find the kindest staff and the greatest assortment. I cannot thank everyone enough for your kindness, hospitality and support. Last year Barnes and Noble donated $282.00 from the Book Fair to “The Malama Family Recovery”. This year they will donate to “The Aloha House Recovery” in support of these worthy causes. Had a great book signing! My thanks to Cindy, Jenifer, Max, Keilani, Jordan, and the whole gang for your support and making it a very special day. “Mahalo” …Thank you.

Lokomaikaʻi~~

published 10/27/18

Image may contain: 1 person, smiling, standing, ocean, sky, outdoor, nature and water

Lokomaika’i~~
To always act with generosity and kindness…. I could not help but sit on my balcony one day and look at the island of Molokai in the distance. One of my favorite stories in the Bible is when Paul hears the Macedonia Call. For me, it was the Molokai call. The Hawaiian people are some of the nicest people that I have ever met and yet the statistics of abuse run higher on the islands than the national average and there is a real need for people to know the power of love, the promise of hope and the joy of knowing that they really do matter to a God who truly loves them. When we first got to Maui, Mike had went to the store to pick up a few things. Strangely, as he was checking out, the cashier said softly to him, “You have a quiet voice.” Mike smiled, but was a little puzzled.Then she said, “Your wife doesn’t have to worry about you yelling at her.” It brought tears to our eyes. My heart was touched when Kelley Dudoit of the University of Hawaii, and Elizabeth Fujii-Director the MCAPP (Molokai Child Abuse Protection Pathways) teamed together and asked if I would come over and speak on Molokai. My thanks (Mahalo) to everyone that made this a very special visit in every way.

Kuleana~~

published 10/25/18

Image may contain: 2 people, people smiling, people standing, bridge and outdoor

This beautiful Hawaiian word was posted on the wall of the one recovery center that I had spoken at. It means, “responsibility”. I had a beautiful experience at the Maui Community Correctional Center, as I was blessed to be able to speak to five different groups on two separate days, both men and women. Their hearts were so responsive to the love and mercy of a God who truly does care for them, and who touches their hearts with the reality of His presence. Mercy and accountability truly do walk hand in hand. As I opened it up to questions one day, one inmate said, “I heard you speak before at one of the recovery houses.” I gave him a big smile, and walked over towards where he was sitting, and then put my hands on my sides and answered back with another big smile, “Then what are you doing in here?” He smiled to, and the others kind of laughed, as he said, “I’m not coming back here again.” I felt a warmth in my heart and said back smiling, “I better not find you here next year.” You have to see the heart of the matter. “..Out of the heart comes all the issues of life.” Proverbs 4:23. Statistics show and estimate that approximately 80% of all people incarcerated have been sexually abused in some way. Though we never minimize or justify the incarceration, this truly gives a better understanding to the brokenness that led them to this life. “Kuleana”, yes responsibility; but also “Ke Akua, ka mea i aloha ai”, God’s Love . My thanks to my friend Francis Zabinski, Liane Endo, Warden Deborah Taylor and Patricia King-Foley.

Malama~~

published 10/24/2018

The Hawaiian language is one of the prettiest languages I have ever heard. When it is spoken in its native tongue it sounds like a melody being sung. Malama in Hawaiian means (Care and Protect). “Am I my brothers’ keeper?” Yes. Everyone of us are our brother and sisters’ keeper. One smile, one kind word, one caring moment, one act of letting someone know that they really do matter, can change a life forever. Was blessed to speak at the “Malama Family Recovery Center”. We can go from Victim to Victor. My thanks to Jud Cunningham, Anthea Iuorno and Lisa Ponichtera.

Book FairBook FairBook Fair

Support “The Aloha House”. Now is your chance to support a wonderful facility that works to help those who are fighting addiction and encourages and helps their clients to create and engage with active support networks to ensure long-term recovery. Please see the attached flier. 15% of any purchase of any item from any Barnes and Noble direct or on-line, from Wednesday October 10–Wednesday October 17 will be donated to “The Aloha House.” My sincere thanks to Barnes and Noble for working with me to sponsor this worthy cause. Please just use and present the #12442554 on any purchase of sale, for credit to be applied to this donation.

Promises~~

I look to the left and everything is gray, dismal and forlorn. Then I look to the right, and there are white puffy clouds with bright rays of sunshine piercing through the baby blue sky. And then there it was, out of nowhere, right in front of me, this beautiful rainbow of promise. A rainbow is always present in our midst, but we don’t always see it. The conditions that we are in often reveal it. Sometimes in life when we are surrounded by the dark clouds of life, we have to look at the bigger picture that surrounds us. Often, if we turn slightly to the right, we will see the sun shining through with bright rays of Hope. And if we look in front of us, so often we will find a beautiful promise of God that will light our path. “Though the promise tarry, it shall surely come.” “His ear is not heavy that He cannot hear, His arm short that He cannot save.” Link for recent interview on I Heart Radio, AMFM247 is https://www.iheart.com/…/spiritually-speaking-with-tamala-…/ Interview will play again on Sunday, September 30 at 9:00 a.m EST. My thanks to Tamala Coleman for this great interview.

Do You Want to be Free????

published 9/17/18

One day, when my daughter was a little girl, she tried to rescue a little mouse from a glue trap. The problem was that either the mouse didn’t know he was in bondage, didn’t care that he was in bondage, or was too afraid to get out of his bondage. Regardless, he did not want my daughter’s help. He would have preferred to stay in his trap, or die trying to escape on his own, than to have someone rescue him; so much that he bit her as she tried to rescue him. Despite this, Jen continued, until she had freed him. The story of redemption is a beautiful story of hope. So often, today, we don’t want to be redeemed from our bondage. Often, it is because we deny that we are even in bondage, and find it more comfortable to stay in this bondage and to accept it. In our society today, we have done away with what is right and what is wrong and have proclaimed that whatever we want to do is okay. According to today’s society, there is no wrong or right. And anyone stating any different is condemned as judgmental and condemning. But there is a right, and there is a wrong. The problem in us denying what is wrong is that we stay in bondage. We deny that we are even in any type of bondage because we have accepted that what is wrong is not wrong and it is okay. And then, we wonder why we are so unhappy and struggling so much. There is something very precious in being set free. There is nothing more empowering. There is nothing more fulfilling. We can be redeemed. “Once, I was bound but now I am free.” “Therefore, if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” John 8:36 Do you want to be free?
Interviewed with Tamala Coleman on “Spiritually Speaking” on AM 24/7 FM on “I Heart Radio” Tamala is a gifted interviewer with a listening audience of over 80,000 people. My thanks to Tamala for this opportunity. Will post link at a later date.

A Journey of Victory~~~

published 9/10/18

Image may contain: 4 people, people smiling, people sitting

I have a magnet that says, “Lord, I want patience, but I want it right now.” We live in such a microwave generation and society that wants everything right away. But life is a journey, not a destination. And as we walk it, we can know the joy of overcoming and walk a journey of victory. We had the most beautiful seminar yesterday. What a wonderful turnout. My thanks to Theresa Johnson our coordinator, leader, and friend, and to all of the dear women who came. Toni Stewart, Rosemary Alvarez and Marsha (Marty) Barth were speakers.

Walking in Victory~~~

published 9/3/18

What do you do when you are in despair? Where do you turn when you are hurt and broken? Who do you run to when you have no hope? We can walk in Victory!!

Accountability and Mercy~~

published 8/23/18

Tired of reading all the articles on the Child Sexual Abuse cases in Pennsylvania? We shouldn’t be. We cannot change what we will not acknowledge. Why did this go on so long? Because people refused to hear the cry of the shattered. And those who heard the cry- stifled and ignored that cry instead of rescuing the child. So even now, do we within ourselves, each individual, skim over these articles, turn the channel, ignore this cry? Or do we join in with the cry and make it a loud voice that can now be heard? How long will our society remain quiet and look the other way? When will we rise up? Each of us have a voice that can make a difference. Some may say–”What about forgiveness?” Accountability and mercy walk hand-in-hand. I believe strongly in forgiveness. One cannot be free without forgiving others. Forgiveness does not do away with accountability. Matthew 3:8 and Acts 26:20 both state that true repentance requires us to bring forth fruit worthy of repentance. It is important to note that fruit is a product that is produced after much labor, and fruit is not free. It comes with a price. The Catholic Church, (and we must note that we have only touched the surface—that there are many denominations and organizations where child sexual abuse has been committed) cannot just say they are sorry on one hand and then be the biggest opponent against the proposed law to remove the “statue of limitations”. There are no “statue of limitations” against murder. There can be no “statue of limitations” against the murder of a soul of a child. What should grieve us as much as this appalling news of such assault on our children, is that the very ones that caused it, allowed it, silenced it, are now considering what it will “cost them” if they are required to bear the accountability of their actions. Still, after all of these years of intentional negligence, because of weighing the cost of what would happen to them, over what had happened to the child; they are still weighing the cost of what it will cost them and not what it has cost the child that was horrifically abused and left to grow up as a shattered and broken adult. It is time—It is time!!!! If any one is truly sorry for all that has happened and for not stepping up to the plate, then step up now. The very least you can do, the very least, is to bring forth fruits of repentance for your actions and not only don’t fight the “statue of limitations” bill, but actually come out in support of it. Then we will know, truly know, that you are sorry. Accountability and Mercy walk hand-in-hand.

Good News~~

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkotkXIi0bQ

Often, when you present the sadder issues of life–people skip over it–“not now”. But we all have a story. We all have hurts and pains to overcome. We deal, to heal, to feel again. “His ear is not heavy that it cannot hear…His arm is not shortened that He cannot save.” Isaiah 59:1 His word is Good News. Song Credit–Good News–Mandisahttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKDrg8qPt70

Beauty in the Desert~~

published 7/27/2018

I cannot think of a more “desert” place than that of a prison. Or as one girl once corrected me and said, “it is a correctional institution.” The other girls actually laughed and agreed, “it is a prison.” Whatever, name we label it as, it is a “desert”, a dry place. Cactus grows” in the desert. They are not much to look at, and no one dares or desires to touch them. They are prickly, leaving their conversational topic. But what about the cactus that grows there in this dry desert place. Every time that I have visited the prisons—every time—I find a wonderful treasure. Always, in the midst of this dry barren ground, I find a blooming cactus. I was outside, not long ago, on my patio, and to my surprise there it was. It branched off the prickly spine and hung in radiant beauty. Who would have ever thought that something so beautiful could come from such a horrid plant? And yet out of dry and barren ground—a beautiful flower blooms. “Dry bones can rise again.”(Ezekiel 37). We went into the Lebanon Correctional Facility on Monday. There I was blessed to see many beautiful flowers blooming in their desert. God is a restorer, a Savior, a very present help in the time of trouble. What desert are you in? Come unto Him all you that are weary and heavy laden, and He will give you rest. Be Blessed my friends~~

Mrs. Dawson~~

published 7/19/2018

When I was a little girl, I was so unaware of how unfair life was, how cruel people could be, and how much Jesus loved me. Life has a way of teaching us all of these things. I went to a little country church that sat on the top of a hill in our valley. Every Sunday, my brothers and I would walk the dirt road up this hill to go to Sunday School. Our little Cocker Spaniel would follow us, lay down at the door of the church, and wait for us to come out. There was one woman who always sat in the same pew and who always came to every service. There was something different about her. She was a quiet woman, but something seemed to radiate from her. Often my eyes would lock on hers and she would give me a big smile. It was one of those smiles that made her eyes twinkle and you could tell she was looking into your very soul, and you knew that somehow for some unknown reason that you mattered to her. As the years passed, and I grew older into a young teen, her hair became grayer until it faded into a soft white glow. Her walk became slower and she bent a little lower, but she never wavered. The strength and gentleness in her hand when she took mine into hers always amazed me and I had grown fond of this woman of love and inspiration and never tired of her encouraging smiles. We never really spoke; I was just a kid, and her, an adult. I wonder what she knew of my life, my situations and circumstances. I’m sure she had heard a lot through those years. But her love never faltered. One evening as I was leaving the church, Mrs. Dawson was there. She took my hand in hers with that same smile and twinkle in her eyes that had always touched my heart and she said, “How are you old faithful?” I wanted to cry. Her love and true concern had touched my life all those years. I smiled back. I like to think there was a twinkle in my eye this time for her, and said, “I’m good, Mrs. Dawson.” No other words were needed. Her love was genuine. I often wonder how often she prayed for me and lifted me up. She believed in me, and I knew it. I learned more from this woman of faith about the love of God than I could have learned from a 100 sermons.

I continue to visit the prisons, do interviews, and advocacy and let God open the doors before me. To learn more or to order my books, contact me here, or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/The-Shattering-215752548593960/ or any of my social medias. Maybe we can all have a smile to give someone today. God Bless~~

The Light Still Shines….

published 6/29/2018

I love to see the sunlight dance. Have you ever seen it? You walk into a room and prisms of light dance across the floor. Sometimes they dance on the ceiling or across the kitchen wall. Doesn’t it make your heart smile to see this—to hear the birds sing in perfect harmony at the breaking of dawn, ushering in a new day—or to hear the hum of a lawnmower in the distance—or the low rumble of a train echoing through the valley? All the beauty of the joy of life, so often taken for granted in the hurry of living. So often too, we can miss that still small voice and that tender touch of a God who is so real. A God who is not wrapped in the cloaks of religiosity, but One who is real and desires to wrap His love and forgiveness around us. “Come unto me you who are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest.” Our team visited the Lebanon County Correctional Facility the other night. The inmates were so attentive, their hearts heavy, and yet receptive. They need to know, like so many of us need to know—that behind every dark cloud, the Light still shines…..

“Where Love Lives….”

published 6/24/2018

Seemed strange to me the other day as I walked across the parking lot at the Virginia Correctional Facility to see this logo on a license plate. It caused me to pause and think right before I entered the facility. Where does love live? Love lives in our hearts if we want it to. But so often, we harden our hearts, afraid to love again, afraid to trust again, afraid to hope again. I am moved every time I go into a facility. So often, there is an atmosphere of hopelessness. I share and talk with them of my story and how that the God of Hope can fill us with joy and peace, even so, that we can abound in Hope-Romans 15:13. I get the privilege of watching God take the hopelessness, and see the tears that follow, as some, for the first time in their lives, feel the touch of a God, that they did not know existed and did not know that they even mattered to Him. “Where Love Lives”—and touches just one heart–we are never the same again. My sincere thanks to Sgt. Deanna Harvey, Cpl. Kidd, Lt. Thompson, Cpl. Jane, and Ms. Simpson for their support and kind welcome, and for making this visit possible.

What Does It Take to Touch a Heart???

published 6/15/2018

Her name means “Consecrated to God”. Often, when I do a one-on-one in the prisons, I like to look the person’s name up and see what it means. I like to ask them while we’re talking if they know what their name means? They are often surprised. I remind them that this is who they are. That they are not defined by what has happened to them, or where they are in their life at this time. Sometimes they seem surprised and hesitant to believe that they can be whole and have a good life. I know many have chosen evil and they belong there. But there are those who are not evil and want to do right. I wish you could know their stories. It would surprise you. You would find them unbelievable. It would give you a different perspective. I’ve been doing this for 15 years and I am still taken aback, every time, as they share their stories with me. Amazingly, the ones I’ve visited do not use their stories as an excuse, they just want to know how they can go forward.Romans 10:14 “…. how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without someone to tell them?” Will visit the Virginia Beach Correctional Facility next Thursday. What does it take to touch a heart???? Just the touch, of the reality of a God, that does love them and lets them know that they do matter.

What Is In Your Heart???

published 6/7/2018

I am always amazed at the story of Jephthah. The son of a prostitute, raised by his stepmother and half brothers. Despised in all of their eyes, until he runs from them when he is of age. He has no one to speak of his character, except that he walks with God and is referred to as a mighty warrior. Judges 11. As I was entering the Lebanon Correctional Center the other night, there was a young woman walking ahead of me. She had her pink, orange, blue, blonde and green hair pinned up in braids. On her hip she carried the sweetest little baby who hung on to her blanket in her tiny hands. She entered, and as I approached, she held the door for me and then with a big smile, said, “I remember you. You’re from that church group.” I stopped and talked with her, and the baby gave me a big smile. She told me they were visiting the baby’s father who was incarcerated, she was about six months pregnant. I could see the sorrow on her face. Etched in that sorrow, was the reminder of what she had learned when our group had visited her while in prison. It’s easy to see people in the wrong light. It’s easy to say simply—choices, it’s all about choices-could’ve, would’ve, should’ve. But God’s not done yet! He’s still working on this life. He still sees her heart. He still knows what issues of life smacked her silly and drove her to this point in her life. So many of the people we meet are Jephthah’s. But let the love and reality of God enter their hearts and they can become a mighty warrior. A warrior that others come to for help as Jephthah’s brothers later did. So often the question is, not, “What is your problem?” As it is, “What is in your heart?”

A Sign Along the Way…

published 5/17/18

So often in life we are so focused on where we are going that we can miss the signs along the way. Signs that can lead us to the right or left, to speed up or slow down. We can forget that life is not a destination to travel, but a journey to enjoy. Coming home from a trip to West Virginia, I saw a sign out of the corner of my eye. The words really didn’t register until I was past. I almost missed it. It made me smile. It read, “In Despair, Jesus is the Hope.” God is always in our midst, working for our good, wanting to love us, and lift the heavy burden that we insist on carrying by ourselves.He is a very present help in the time of trouble. “We are troubled on every side, but not distressed, perplexed but not in despair, persecuted but not forsaken, cast down but not destroyed.” 2 Corinthians 4:8

A Message of Hope…..

published 4/29/18

So often we hope, merely as a wish, and when it fails, we give up on hope.”We ask, and receive not, because we ask amiss,” James 4:3 “There is a Hope that we can have as anchor of our soul, both sure and stedfast. Heb. 6:19 This is a 10 minute interview with WMAP Radio’s “World’s Most Amazing People”. 30 second delay before it starts–-WMAP reaches into 83 countries. My sincere thanks to everyone at WMAP for this opportunity to bring a message of hope….

Show Me the Way…..

published 4/24/18

Bringing God’s Hope to the Broken and Shattered

Show Me the Way byDarlene Zschech – Hillsong
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGp3VCKkjaU

Is Silence Golden?…..

published 4/20/18

Live Interview with KC Armstrong on WMAP Radio, “World’s Most Amazing People” at 3:00 P.M. EST on April 20, 2018 at https://www.wmapradio.com/
I love to hear the laughter of my grandchildren, the sweet song of a robin ushering in a new and beautiful day, my momma’s sweet voice, the rushing water of a babbling brook, church bells ringing as they echo through the valley. Love is never silent, even if expressed in quietness. We hear with our hearts as well as with our ears. May we all hear the voice of those who touch our lives each day, even if, they do not say a word. Is “Silence Golden?” I don’t think so.

Accountability Ensures Rights…

published 4/13/18

Three years ago, I went to an advocate rally at the Capitol in Harrisburg. I had an opportunity to give Governor Tom Wolf a copy of my first book, “The Shattering”. On Monday, I attended once again, this years Crime Victim’s Rally. On the forefront is the attempt to pass Marsy’s Law. This law would make an amendment to our Constitution here in PA that would ensure rights to all victims of crimes and would enforce an accountability to all involved that these rights are not thwarted during the process. “We have no rights, if there is no accountability to enforce those rights.” mlb

Do You Hear The Cry?…

published 4/8/2018

Every time you listen, and don’t turn away.
Every time you speak up, and believe what they say
Every time you reach out, to those broken and torn
You hear their cry in the night. (mlb)
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, National Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and National Crime Victim’s Week-April 8-14. This is a link to an interview I did last year with WHTM ABC TV 27

http://www.abc27.com/good-day-pa/author-spotlight/author-spotlight-marsha-barths-the-shattering-ii/1037017999

National Crime Victim’s Rally, Monday April 9th at 11:00 a.m,
Capitol Rotunda Bldg, Harrisburg, PA. All welcome.

Repairer Of The Breach……

published 3/27/18

Years ago, when my oldest grandson was very young, he mentioned to his teacher that his gramma was going to prison. Often when we passed by the local prison that I “visit”, I had shared with him how there are so many hurting, broken, and yes, guilty people there. We are a small community, so I can only wonder what his teacher thought when she heard this. I visited the Lebanon County Correctional Center last evening with our team. I always leave there with many mixed emotions–joy of the hope that I see them grab hold of, sorrow for the brokenness that I see, sadness for what could have been, and Victory in seeing God make a difference. Later, after I had left, I received a phone call. I put the phone on speaker and smiled as the phone vibrated with one of the loudest renditions of singing– “Happy Birthday MeMaw” that I have ever heard. My heart just overflowed, as the voices of my grandsons sang so earnestly, emphasizing every word with their love. I look back at my own life. We can be “repairers of the breach.” We can bring others to the “Restorer of paths to dwell in.” Isa. 58:12. We all can make a difference in the lives we touch each day, if we want to. A little kindness goes a long way. We are repairers of the breach.

Spread Your Wings~~

published 3/21/18

I have an Amazon Parrot. Gizmo is quite a character. Years ago, a previous owner used to have his wings clipped regularly to prevent him from flying. As the years passed, we didn’t get his wings clipped and they grew back; long, beautiful and colorful. The amazing thing is, that he could now fly if he wanted to. He could take off at any given moment and fulfill a destiny, explore heights unknown, and soar freely above all his cares. The problem is, he doesn’t know that he can fly. He is content in the life he has, even though he lives in bondage. One day, he may discover that he can fly again. When he does, Mike and I will have quite a time trying to catch him. I couldn’t help thinking of how many of us are living in bondage, when really we could fly, and we do not know it. Spread your wings, my friend. Today is the day of salvation. Today is the day that you can start your healing journey. Grab a cup of coffee or tea and a snack, and join me in this interview. My sincere thanks to Dr. Donna Ghanney for this Interview.

https://youtu.be/rM2JwKt3sIo

http://www.keifm.com/p/keitv.html

http://www.kingdomempowermentinc.com/

https://plus.google.com/u/0/+DonnaGhanneyKEI/posts

https://www.facebook.com/DONNAGHANNEY/

https://www.facebook.com/KingdomEmpowermentInc/

https://www.facebook.com/kingdomempowermentinc2/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1422588941390434/

A New Season….

published 3/16/18

Winter is finally breaking, Easter is coming, flowers are pushing through, buds are just waiting for nature to give the call that Spring has come. So often in our lives, we enter a new season of life. It is full, of a new hope, a new beginning, and new dreams. Amidst this new season, so often, a healing journey begins. All we have to do, is to take that one step and our life can change forever. Sometimes, it helps, if we could just know that we don’t have to take this step alone. There is a God, Who beckons you to take His hand, and He will walk you into that new season. Both books–The Shattering, “A Child’s Innocence Betrayed” and The Shattering II-“Breaking the Silence” can be purchased on this site by contacting me here on Facebook, through my website https://marshabarth.com through Amazon, or ordered from bookstores/or publisher Robert D. Reed. To order the book and to receive a signed copy and a free copy of the audio of the video “A Shattered Vessel” written by Michael Barth and a narration by myself, please contact me personally on one of these sites. God Bless ~~

Laughter in the Darkness….

published 3/5/2018

I have a very dear friend. She is everything lovely and a true lady. She is one of the most caring and loving people that I know. Years ago, when we owned our business, we were flooded with over 500,000 gallons of water. It required me to get down in the muck in water up to my hips to keep a hose unclogged that was pumping us out. This friend and her husband concerned for us had come down to help us. Without a thought, this friend climbed down into the muddy murky water with me. She doesn’t like dirty or slimy. Her very presence and words calmed my heart. She jumped once when something slimy slid past her. I assured her it was probably a stray fish. I quietly tried to assure myself it was a stray fish. I kid her about it today. She laughs, because normally, nothing would have ever gotten her down into that water. And yet, her love and concern for us made her act without a single thought to herself. She brought laughter into the darkness. I have heard the sound of laughter at the bedside of a sick loved one as I held their hand. I have heard laughter at a funeral as memories of that loved one were shared. Laughter in the darkness….Bringing a light of Hope to a dark place. “Who will enter into the dark places and pull back the curtains to reveal God’s Light and set the captives free??” (mlb) Visited the Lebanon County Correctional Facility with our group and spoke with the women. God’s love and truth truly does set the captives free.

True Rest~~

Image may contain: tree, outdoor and nature

published 2/19/18

It’s amazing what you can see when there’s nothing to see. I looked out the window. The snow floated down lightly, beautiful, soft white powdery flakes. I am always mesmerized watching snow fall. I always feel like I am in one of those enchanting water globes that you turn upside down. The trees were already covered, the trail in the woods had disappeared. You could actually feel the silence, the peacefulness. I saw a flicker in the snow, and then another. I rubbed my eyes. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. There they stood, right outside my window. They seemed oblivious to the snow falling around them but looked keenly at the house as they nibbled on the ivy beside our patio. The birds ceased their singing and chatter. All was still, as if in awe, all of nature paused to watch the master artist paint this scene. The beauty of it all took my breath away. Can a God who takes the drabness of a brown and gray winter and paints it anew, fresh and pure before us, creating a whole new scene of life in radiant beauty, not able to do the same with our lives? Can a God, with one gentle touch of His brush, paint a sunset that stops us in our tracks, and not be God enough to care for the very children that He calls His own? Sometimes it’s just a matter of seeing, when we think there is nothing to see. Sometimes we just need to enter into that secret place of the most High and abide under the Shadow of the Almighty. (Psalm 91) For it is here that we find true rest.

copyright Marsha Barth 2018

Hold Me….

published 2/16/18

Not long ago, I took a walk with my grandsons to see the ducks. My youngest grandson who is only two-and-a-half, did not like to walk on the planks that led to the pond. While the others seemed fascinated with the beauty of the walk, young Matthew was focused mostly on his feet and the unsurety of the path that he was walking on. As we approached the pond, the older boys ran across the walkway that crossed over the water anxiously to see the ducks, herring and even a proud peacock. But that is where Matthew decided to not go any further. “Hold me,” his sweet voice called out to me. I looked down at those sweet blue eyes filled with emotion–doubt, fear, and apprehension. “Hold me,” he said again, more earnestly. It was not a question, but a plea of desperation. I reached down and picked him up and held him close to me. Once secure, we walked together across the walkway. Then and only then, did his focus change from the plankway to the beauty around him. So often, we lose our focus along the way of life. Sometimes our unsurety of the path that God is leading us on distracts us from all the beauty that is surrounding us. It is okay to reach out to the One who loves us most and say, “Hold me.” He will carry us through our uncertainty, doubts and fears and never lead us on a pathway where He will not hear our cry, “Hold me.”
Psalm 142–”I cried unto the Lord with my voice; unto the Lord did I make my supplication. I poured out my complaint before Him; I showed before Him my trouble. When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then You knew my path.”

He Cared~~~

published 1/27/18

I got really yelled at the other day. Fiercely. I was on my way to an appointment and he stood right in the middle of the road. I slowed down as he boldly approached my car. He was totally unabashed and continued to let me know how very unhappy that he was. I came to a complete stop and started to laugh out loud.

I said, “So you made it past Thanksgiving, did you?” And then, “You know this isn’t the best place for you to be hanging out.”

But he stood firm, squawking at me in pure turkey lingo. “How dare you not slow down sooner. Can’t you see I have an important job to do here?” He continued to squawk as his guarded flock crossed the road. They were chickens; all shapes, sizes and colors, but they were his flock. He marched right up to the hood of my car and popped his head up above it, looked me square in the eyes, and squawked some more. He walked around the side of the car, raised his long neck and peered into my side window and said his last words of reproof. I gave him a nod and a gentle smile to let him know that I understood, and then slowly drove away.

Isn’t it so amazing? He didn’t care that his friends were different. He didn’t care that they were a totally different bird than he was. He didn’t care that one was orangish red, one white, one black, another brown, and others multicolored. He didn’t care that their feathers were different than his, their beaks smaller. All that mattered to him was that he cared for them. He cared because they were his friends and he was going to be there for them and protect every single one of them. Oh how much we can learn from God’s simplest creatures. So why can’t we do the same thing? Why can’t we reach past the things that make us different and grab onto the things that make us one? Love always deserves a chance.

Visited the Lebanon County Correctional Center last night with the team. We were blessed as one of the girls stood up and sang an amazing song with her whole heart about the love that God had for her. Sometimes, I have to wonder who really gets the greater blessings from these visits. God’s richest blessings to all of you~~~

Interview on TLBTV.com

published 1/18/18

on twitter at http://wp.me/p9hZLK-psI
Marsha Barth interviews on TV WITH REBECCA MAHAN ON TLBTV.COM
Many have asked me to let them know when I speak somewhere. Out of the many interviews that I’ve done, this is one of my favorites. My sincere thanks to Rebecca for this interview. Books can be purchased by contacting me here on Facebook, or contacting me on my web site http:marshabarth.com or through Amazon or my publisher Robert D. Reed Publishers. May you always know that you do not have to walk this journey alone, and that God has carved you in the palm of His hand. YOU DO MATTER!

Love Never Ages~~

published 1/14/18

The beauty of love is that it never ages. It never dissipates or fades away. Once written on your heart, it is etched there forever. How precious is this treasure that God has given us to receive and to give. I cannot remember ever a Sunday morning growing up, that my three brothers and I did not get up, clumsily dress ourselves, eat some cereal, and then walk up the dirt road that led to the country church at the top of the hill. There we would trudge, often my brothers shirts would be hanging half in and half out, and my scuffed up shoes dusty, as I kicked rocks along the way. We reached the top, and entered the small building. Here we learned every Sunday about a God who loved us, cared for us, and Who asked only that we give our hearts to Him. At twelve years old, I was facing a lot of crisis situations in my life. But I had grabbed hold of that Love, and He had grabbed hold of me. It was then that He said to my heart, “If you will put me first in your life, I will give you the desires of your heart.” I had two desires of my heart at that point in my life. I wanted to go to college, which seemed impossible. And, I already knew that I wanted to marry a Christian man, which in my situation, also seemed impossible. But, I believed this promise from God. One day, when I had just turned 18 years old, I was called into my principal’s office. I nervously fidgeted, and could only wonder what I had done to be called into his office. I went in and sat down at the chair in front of his large desk. He sit behind the desk, leafing through papers, his glasses hanging on his nose, seeming oblivious to my being there. Shortly, he looked up and gave me a smile. I had never seen him smile before. It was a kind smile. He asked me if I was going to go to college? I said, “I wanted to.” He asked me if I knew where I was going, if they were accredited, if I had the money to go, and more questions, to which I answered most of his questions with, “I don’t know.” Again, he smiled. I had never seen this side of my principal. He offered to help me. He and his wife took me to their home, let me stay over at their house, drove me to a college 100 miles away, took me as part of their family to visit their friends, and in the end, got me full scholarship. This college that I attended is where I met Mike, my husband. This one act of love and kindness changed my life forever. Through this kind man and his wife, God used them to fulfill both of the promises He had given me as a child. Today, this very day, 45 years later, I was able to personally thank him for all that he had done for me. He is now 92 years old, and he graced me with his time today, as I shared with him all that God had done through his one act of kindness. Love never ages, dissipates, or fades away. Once written on your heart, it is etched there forever.
Tomorrow I will interview on TLB T.V.com with Rebecca Mahan on her show “Rebecca Sounds Reveille”. I will post the link for this interview at a later date.

Finding Christmas….

published 12/8/17

Many of you know that I have 7 grandsons, and one granddaughter, all under the age of 12 years old. They are my joy, my sunshine. They can brighten the darkest day by just their smile, their very presence, or by a simple childlike statement. Not long ago, I felt adventurous, and decided while visiting with 6 of them that we would make a surprise cake for their mommy’s birthday. Even though having to stop and pick out a few eggshells from the batter, overall it was going really good. During the process, my one grandson, who will not surprise me if he becomes the lawyer of our family, had a few ideas. I explained to him in detail why we couldn’t do this but he still had a plan. He really could sell sand in the desert. I smiled and told him that Memaw was not going to change her mind on this. He left out, a not quite defeated sigh. I said, “You’ll just have to chuck it up to the mean old Memaw.” Before he could answer, his brother interjected, “And,…. she’s not a mean old MeMaw, she’s a nice old MeMaw.” I almost busted out laughing except for the sincerity of his statement. But amazingly, that ended the debate. Love has a way of doing that. Christmas is such a beautiful time of love. A time for sharing, giving, and cherishing the wonderful people that have been, and are a beautiful part of our lives. But, I am always touched and reminded that it can be a very sorrowful and difficult time for those who are struggling in life, have lost a loved one, or cannot seem to find Christmas. I was in the store the other day and a woman was at the photo machine. It was clanking out pictures at a pretty steady pace. I don’t know why, but I felt led to talk to her. I said, “Are you doing Christmas cards?” She was a pleasant woman, and hesitated for a moment as if in thought, and then said softly, “No, I’m making memories.” I stopped and just waited a moment. She continued and then said, “I’m copying pictures of my son.” I could feel a spirit of sorrow as she spoke the words. She picked one of the pictures up from the machine that was still clanking and said, “this is me when I was pregnant with him” and then, “This is one he took on a hunting trip. He loved to take pictures of landscape. And, slowly, with an endearing mother’s smile, she pulled one from the pile, this is my favorite one. It was taken while he was on a mission trip. It so personifies who he really was.” It was the “was” that caught my heart. For some reason, she opened up to me. She paused, still sorting the pictures, as if miles away, and yet present with me, she spoke again. “He passed away.” I reached out to her, and gently asked more about him. She told me that he was 24 years old and had passed just 2 months ago. I wanted to hug her, but before I could, out of no where, a woman who worked there, who I knew, came up to her and said, “Can I give you a hug?” The woman broke down with tears and nodded yes. I asked her then if I could give her one too. As I embraced her I prayed God would somehow carry this courageous woman. She shared a few more pictures with me and I felt that I had entered a very private part of her precious heart. I said, “He was a Christian?” And she proudly answered, “Yes.” She said, “As much as I wish that I could talk to him one more time, I would never bring him back for a second from where he is.” I told her that my prayer would be that for Christmas, God would let her somehow feel his presence. The pictures were already doing this. Oh, the beautiful love that flowed from this soul. The faith in her darkest hour, that God was a good God, and that she would not want to take back her son from the arms he now rested in. In the midst of her great pain, she found Christmas. I was humbled in her presence by her anguished, yet sweet spirit. When, I later went to pay at the cashier, the woman who had hugged her, checked me out. As she rang me up, she spoke and said, “I had overheard you both talking and I had to give her a hug.” I thanked her for reaching out and hugging her. She then gave me a tender smile and said, “And, there was no way, I was going to let her pay for those pictures. She insisted that she pay, but I refused to let her.” I wanted to hug this dear soul too. Christmas, oh that tender time of year. Where even in our darkest hour, we can find Him, the Child that was born, the Son that was given, the Counselor, the Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6.

Seasons of Life

published 11/29/17

When I was a little girl, I used to love to roam through the woods, sometimes with my brothers and other times by myself. Here, I would walk up through the uncut trails, over the knoll, and down into the vale where the rhododendrons grew wildly and bloomed endlessly in the spring, creating a hedge of protection for the deer that sought refuge. I too, sought refuge here in this beautiful sanctuary. I would climb the steep peak that led out of the vale to cross over to the other side of the steep cliff to what was called the “Devil’s Slide.” Here I would sit down and let my troubled thoughts run free.
Seasons of life—each bringing us new revelation, healing and purpose. Time is actually our friend, not our enemy. What season of life are you in right now?
Do you long for the winter? The ambiance of the freshly fallen snow, with Christmas carols playing in the background, the fireplace radiating its warmth to our very souls.
Do you long for spring? The breaking forth of life itself, flowers pushing up, birds singing and echoing in a new song of hope.
Do you long for summer? The warmth of the sun beating down upon us, the air filled with a mixed fragrance of every bloom imaginable, the comfort of never wanting to feel cold again.
Do you long for the fall? Oh, the splendor of colors, bursting forth as nature’s fireworks in one final spectacular display of beauty. The smell of harvest as the wind brushes past us soothing our very soul.
So, what season of life are you in? What season would you like to be in?

Before you decide, consider this. Winter has sleet and ice, cold rain, dampness and snow shoveling too. Spring takes a while for the flowers to come forth. There is a lot of rain, more than sunshine, and often it is colder and more barren than we remember. Summer can be unbearably hot, chasing us indoors to the air conditioning, and there is grass cutting and lots of labor. Fall, lets us know that winter is coming, leaves us with a barrenness and lots of leaves to rake.

It is all in perspective. In every season of our life there is barrenness, heartaches, rain and storms. There are hardships and sorrows and labor of heart and mind. But there is also “beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garments of praise for the spirit of heaviness…..” There is a fresh hope, a warm comfort, a new beginning, a bright tomorrow.

But how you may ask. You may say–you don’t know where I’m at right now. You don’t know my sorrows, my brokenness, my hurt and pain. And you are right. But there is a God who does know your every heartache. You say, if He cared, where has He been in my life? He has always been there, waiting for you to believe in Him. Crying when you cried, maybe just once, wishing He could take back man’s power of choice that has caused so much havoc in your life, in my life, and shattered the hearts of so many. God is not the cause of our pain and suffering, but the solution. Calvary is more than a cross that we wear around our neck. God loves you and wants to bring you into a new season of your life. What season are you in???? What season do you want God to bring you into?
Visited and spoke with our team at the Lebanon County Prison last night. God gives us a new season. “Behold, old things are passed away, behold all things become new.”
“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven………Eccl. 3:1-8

A Thankful Turkey….

published 11/24/17

Happy Happy Thanksgiving to all of my friends and loved ones.

The other day while hurrying to an appointment, I met a new friend. Unfortunately, he was not in a hurry. As you can see by the picture, he was very unabashed while walking down the middle of the road. He turned and looked at me as if to say, “Go around me,” but yet he took up the whole road. I began to chuckle to myself as he walked gallantly down the road, oblivious to the white Nissan monster following him. I didn’t have the heart to beep at him as he seemed to trust me. I thought this was a little fool-hearty on his part being we were nearing the Thanksgiving Holiday. He continued on, as if he did not have a care in the world. He did not know where his next meal would come from. As a matter-of-fact, he didn’t even know if he’d be the next meal. He was all alone and walking down a strange path of life full of unknown and danger. And yet, he was happy, thankful for his life. Thankful for the moment. Thankful for today without worrying about tomorrow. I learned a lot from my new friend, that day. Happy Thanksgiving and may God richly bless you and carrying you with His love.

A Promise in the Night~~

published 11/8/2017

I love the Fall season. The splendor of colors erupt on the mountain sides ushering in a new season. There is an earthy smell in the cool brisk air that can only be described as an aroma of harvest. Our lives are like the seasons, beckoning us to leave one season behind as we are drawn into the beauty of a new one. I love this season of my life. It is a season that I did not plan and that drew me into its grasp as gradually as the changing colors of Fall. Anyone, who has ever tried to reach out to help others, will understand when I say, that there are times that you are “slaying dragons”. There is an enemy of the soul that will oppose your labor, hinder your path, and put every obstacle possible in your way. We must never be of a faint heart as we push onward, reaching into the depths, to pull even just one, from that gulf of darkness, into God’s wondrous love and light. But, we do get tired, and sometimes after a “dragon slaying” period, we can feel very exhausted. The joy of seeing God’s hand move and touching a heart, and feeling His precious presence and anointing, make the journey all worthwhile. But we do get tired sometimes. While in Hawaii, I spoke to nine different groups. There were some “dragon slaying” times. I have come to recognize them now and I knew to continue forward and God would prevail, and He did. One night after a week of “dragon slaying”, as I began to unwind, I felt a thankfulness for all that God had done, but I asked Him, “God, I want to see you in the midst.” We can ask God that, you know? He does love it when we seek His presence. And then I let it rest. It was around 9:00 p.m and the time change of six hours, had already knocked Mike out-it was 3:00 a.m PA time. I went out on the patio for just a second to do something. I stopped dead in my tracks and rubbed my eyes. I blinked, and then rubbed my eyes again. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. The sight before me had caught me completely off guard. There spread before me, in the night sky, was the most beautiful and full rainbow that I have ever seen. It stretched from the island of Lanai across the ocean to the island of Molokai. There was a light mist and the full moon shone bright in the sky. I ran in to Mike and woke him. I told him that he had to come see the rainbow. He rubbed his eyes, and then still half asleep, but seeing it was still night, said, “Mart, it’s dark outside, there can’t be a rainbow.” I said, “I know, come see it.” We looked at this wonder for over 20 minutes. As I stood watching it, God spoke to my heart, “this rainbow of promise is just for you.” I turned to Mike and said, “You know this is my rainbow.” “You’re rainbow?” he asked with a smile. “Yes,” I said, “God made it just for me.” Mike just gave me a big smile back. You see, there is always a “promise in the night.” This promise is ours, to claim and to know that He is always in our midst “slaying our dragons.”
Continued the journey, this weekend. Enjoyed a wonderful conference in York, Pa at the Providence Presbyterian Church. My thanks to Pastor Vince Wood and Delilah Rumburg for doing this conference on abuse, and their invitation to me to be a part of it and to have a book signing. Their kindness and support are so greatly appreciated.

The Love Rose….

published 10/31/17

My husband picked me this last rose. It will be the last one to bloom this year as the cold winds of fall and winter rush in. No more will I see the tiny buds appear, unfold, and usher in each individual petal displaying the distinct characteristics and unique beauty of each flower. It is called “The Love Rose”. Its fragrance is as sweet, as its colors are vibrant. All that is left is the ragged bush. It is faded and bare, the leaves are mostly gone, enhanced only by the sharp thorns that now protrude on its branches. There is nothing pretty about this bush. There is no fragrance. If one did not know the potential of this thorny specimen, it could easily be considered a nuisance, a problem, a source of great pain and deserving to be cut down. And yet it would be worth keeping, if it were for this one last rose alone. I go to the Lebanon County Correctional Center once a month here locally with our team. We just went in to visit last week. Actually, I visited it twice last week. Every time I visit, somewhere in the midst, I see one last rose. I can see past the thorns and the bare stems that bare no buds because I know that they are in the winter season of their life. But wonder if the “Rose of Sharon” could touch their lives and usher them into a new season? Wonder if they themselves could behold what really lay in their bosom instead of just those nasty thorns? And so we go to tell them, that once we were blind but now we see, that we will stand our ground where Hope can be found, and we share with them the Love of a God, that before we leave, they will know that they matter to Him. He truly is the Lily of the Valley, the Rose of Sharon, and definitely our precious Love Rose.

Abuse Impacts Lives…..

published 10/27/17

I spoke at the University Of Hawaii in Maui on “Domestic Violence’s Impact on the Child.” The need for awareness and prevention on this topic cannot be underestimated. We cannot push this under the rug; of society, of education, or even our own hearts. We must deal, to heal, to feel. My thanks to Aris Banaag for arranging this event. My thanks also to the Friends of the Children’s Justice Center of Maui for their generous support in what I am doing. I am reminded in Proverbs 4:7 “….get wisdom and with all your getting, get understanding.” It is impossible to learn without understanding. And it is impossible to understand without hearing. May there always be a voice to be heard for the broken and shattered.

Are You Free?

published 10/27/17

Free from what, you may ask? Anything that has you bound, anything that causes you to stumble, anything that weighs on you so heavily that you can’t find release. We can be free. Do we want to be free? Do we want to become whole? Seems like a silly question but we can become content in our bondage, not happy, but accepting. “If the Son, makes you free, you are free indeed.” John 8:36. A friend of mine, whom I love dearly, always says, “It’s time to get your big girl, (big boy) pants on. So much price has been paid for this freedom. Seems like a waste for us to not to reach out and grab it and share it with others. “Go you into all the world…..” Mark 16:15 Had a wonderful book signing at Barnes and Noble in Maui, HI. My thanks to Jenifer and all of the staff who supported both of my books “The Shattering” and “The Shattering II” and made me feel so welcomed. My thanks to Barnes and Noble also for their wonderful support and generous donation to the Malama Family Recovery Center.

Are You Weary?

published 10/26/17

Have you ever noticed in your day’s journey the weariness that people are carrying–behind the facade of smiles, the cliches of ‘How are you?’ ‘I’m fine.’ ‘How are you?’ What would really happen if we looked behind the veil of those facades and dared to reach out to those who are hurting? The need is so great in a world that has lost its way. Wonder if people could feel the love of Jesus instead of hear about the love of Jesus? Wonder if for the first time in their life, they could feel that they really mattered? We can do that. Every day that we walk through our daily lives, we have the potential to reach a heart,–it may be through an encouraging word, a helping hand, a patient act, or just a simple smile. We serve a God, who is touched by our infirmities and has traveled this road of weariness. Hebrews 4:15. Are you weary? Now He wants to carry you. Spoke at the Malama Family Recovery House. A wonderful organization that gives women with children the opportunity to come and get help for their addictions and lead them to recovery. “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.

What Do We Do With The Hardened, Broken and Shattered?

published 10/25/17

“That you may say to the prisoners, ‘Go forth’–to them that are in darkness,”.” Isaiah 49:9. I spoke to five groups at the Maui Correctional Center on two different days while there. You will find no darker place than when you enter any correctional center. We all have had to pay a price in our lives at sometime for the bad choices that we have made and the wrong that we have done. Mercy is given not to okay us in our sin, but to deliver us from our sin. Mercy does not relieve us of the accountability of what we have done wrong, but it leads us to a path where we can bear the accountability and chose a path that can make a difference in our lives and in the lives of others. I am forever touched when I see God touch the heart of the hardened, broken and shattered. My thanks to Brian Cade, Francis Zabinski and Alexa for arranging these visits.

Rainbows of Promise~~

published 10/24/2017

You turn unexpectedly and there it is. A beautiful promise piercing through the darkest of clouds, shooting its brilliant colors like streams of hope for all to see. No matter how dark the clouds, the rainbow promises us that the sun still shines. When life’s dark clouds cover us let us always remember that the sun still shines. You have to look up to see a rainbow. If you look down you will miss it every time. The rainbow is a covenant from God. God whopromised cannot fail.
I spoke at the Aloha House in Makawao, HI. The many clients met me with a beautiful lei and a warm Aloha welcome. I count it a joy and privilege to be able to share the promise of God’s great love, hope and healing. Salvation is Hope, Hope is Redemption, and Redemption brings Restoration. Share the promise…..
My sincere thanks to Tony Arcuria and Nic Baca.

Cry in the Night ~~

published 10/17/2017

If we could hear a child’s cry in the night would we do something? If we could see the pain in the eyes of a child would we do something? If the child grew up and hardened their heart would we still reach out to save them? If the child got lost in addiction would we rescue them? Some say that the subject of abuse is too deep. But we are drowning in this deepness. Who will throw out the lifeline? Who will care enough to venture into this darkness and shine the LIGHT? “Let your light so shine before men…. Matthew 5:16. Will be speaking at the University of Hawaii on “Domestic Violence’s Impact on the Child.”

You Can Make a Difference~~

published 10/11/17

There are pathways in life, crossroads, that often catch us unprepared. Who is the person that can say that they have always made the right choices? Who has never taken a right on these pathways when they should have gone left? Knowing this, can we reach out to others and help them find their way? Can we lead them to the Rock that is higher than us, to the Hope that can change their lives forever?
I am happy and honored that Barnes and Noble is supporting and promoting my books, “The Shattering” and “The Shattering II”, and that they are also doing a Book Fair in support of the Malama Recovery Center from October 14-October 21. Mike and I will be doing a joint signing together at Barnes and Noble, Saturday October 14, from 2:00-6:00. Mike will be signing his new CD, Tranquil Moments, and I will be signing “The Shattering” and “The Shattering II”. Barnes and Noble is located at 325 Keawe St. #101, Lahaina, Maui. Part of the proceeds from all sales that present this CODE # 12234928, will go as a donation to the Malama Recovery Center. The great news is that you can be a part of supporting this great facility that is a refuge for many families fighting addiction. If you purchase ANYTHING during the week of October 14-October 21 from any Barnes and Noble across the country, in any city, in any store, or place any order using this CODE #12234928, a portion of your total purchases will go to The Malama Recovery Center. You must give them the Code # 12234928. We can make a difference.? Thank you for this support.

This Journey of Life….

published 9/22/2017
We are all on a journey of life and every single one of us has a message to take to the world. It is a message and gift that God has given you, and you alone to deliver. I was so touched not long ago by my seven-year old grandson as we drove together in the car. He started to whistle, nothing in particularly, just a happy whistle. He whistles all the time. I love it. It makes my heart smile. People don’t whistle much anymore. I told him how special it was to hear someone whistle and that the only other person that I know that whistles is his great-Uncle Pat. Many may share their gift in a song, some in an encouraging word, some in their smile alone. Some may build it with their hands, carve it with a kind heart, reach a broken soul, a shattered spirit. Some may paint it on canvas, play it with an instrument, some in a happy whistle. Some may even fight a battle, take a stand, speak out for the lost, or help others find their way. We all have something we can give to others, a helping hand, a kind gesture, a prayer, our time, our love, our heart. No matter how small or unseen, or how great and admired, this gift of God is yours to find and it is yours to give. Will you share your gift today?
Many events coming up in October. God is opening so many doors. Will post soon.

How Far Are You Going?…..

I was driving the other day to an advocacy meeting and like so many of us do while we are driving, I began to think. I thought of my children and grandchildren, life itself, the list in my head of things I needed to get done and how tired I felt. I had been burning the candle at both ends the last few weeks and I asked God if He would just speak to my heart. I love to hear His still small voice amidst the hurry and scurry of life. Shortly, after I had prayed, a big truck passed by me. On the back of the truck were the words– “How far are you going today? Restful nights up ahead.” It made my heart smile. How far was I going today? It was time to rest. The next sign I saw was “Rest Area Ahead”, and then “Rest Area”. In the rush of our lives and the many distractions that pound us from every side, even the good distractions, it is sometimes important to see God’s signs, to hear His still small voice, to pull off the exit of life and take a rest. …A rest in Him. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28. Rest area up ahead—how far are you going?
I was so blessed to be a part of the team that spoke at the women’s retreat last weekend at Kenbrook Christian Retreat–”Dealing With Conflict God’s Way.” Thank you Theresa Johnson, Toni Stewart and all the wonderful women who attended.

Dealing With Conflict God’s Way….

published 9/2/2017

We still have a long way to go yet before we reach heaven’s shore. We live in a fallen world, troubled by many issues and situations that come our way daily. Situations that we have no control over. So what do we do when problems come our way? How do we deal with conflict in our life? How do we deal with it God’s way? Still time to sign up. Don’t miss this time of refreshing and fellowship…..

Are You Angry?

published 8/31/2017

Ouch! What a subject. No one gets angry right? We are never angry. We’re just a little bothered, a little sad. We’re tired. We’re frustrated. We’re irritated. But we are never angry, right? We don’t want to be called an angry person. I have a very dear friend. I say have, because she is still my very dear friend. We grew up together in those hills of West Virginia. She would not mind me telling this story as we are very close. One day as we were talking on a sad subject that we often discussed, I could hear her pain and hurt go to anger. I hesitated, and then trusted the love we shared. I said, “You have got to let go of the anger that you feel towards that person or it will destroy you.” I then politely ducked. She then answered in her “not angry voice”. That was a joke, in case you didn’t get that. That is why I ducked. Being the good Christian that she truly is, she continued…”I’m not angry. It’s righteous indignation.” We laugh about that today. And she actually thanks me for being honest with her. I do remind her that I ducked when I said it. None of us want to admit to being angry. But we must. You can not confront, what you won’t admit. Anger is a strong emotional feeling of being bothered, sad, frustrated, annoyed, or irritated. We excuse anger, by stating, “I have a right to be angry!” And maybe we do. But the question is–”Do you want to stay angry?” Anger is an emotion that we use to try to take control and fight back against hurt, pain, injustice, wrong and turmoil. But it is a two-edged sword and destroys from without and within. Anger stops the healing process. “Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you,” Ephesians 4:31. Do you want to be free, happy and whole again? Time to let go of anger.

Was glad to visit the Lebanon County Correctional Institute with the team Monday night and speak a message of God’s love and hope. The women were so receptive. A new day. A new season. “old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinth. 5:17

Set Free….

published 8/22/2017

Do you want to be free??? That seems like such a foolish question, like asking a blind man, would he like to see or asking a person with cancer if they want to be healed. But being free is more than a mere hope, it is a declaration against what has us bound. It is a battle, it doesn’t come easy, and it cannot be fought alone. So the question still remains, do you really want to be free? Or maybe the real question is, “Will you fight the fight?”
The battle is really in the heart. They say the battle is in the mind and it is, but only secondary to the battle in the heart. What issues of the heart do you battle to be set free? What pain is shoved under the rug of your life, out of sight for all to see, even yourself? And yet, everyday you stumble over that lumpy carpet pretending it is not there and long to be free. Maybe you have tried to set yourself free and are too tired to try again. Maybe this time you could ask for help? Maybe this time you could run to the Rock that is higher? “From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the Rock that is higher than I.”Psalm 61:2. “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.”John 8:36 Do you want to be free????

The Three Little Kittens…

published 8/5/2017

What a beautiful morning. The chimes sang in the distance as a light breeze carried their melody to me. The trees rustled above me and sang their own song. I sat on the patio, enjoying my breakfast and a cup of coffee, soaking in this peaceful moment until three of my friends showed up. These are the cute, furry, little friends that forever find our home as a shelter. The “Three Little Kittens.” Mike tried, with a smile, to convince me that they had come to visit me. But, I gave him the Marty look that said, “No, I think it’s the food.”As they approached, I gently led them away. I didn’t want to scare them. I wanted to teach them to wait until we were done eating, without feeling I was rejecting them. They waited for a short period and then went off to find their own way. Shortly, I called out to them. One came right away. I fed him, breaking the food into small pieces while continuing to call the other two. Finally, the second one came and gleefully joined in eating. I continued to call the third one, but he was in his own world chasing a leaf, lost in his own pleasure. I couldn’t help but see the similarities of how we act. We run to God when we want something. When He tells us to wait, often we go off on our own believing the lie that He doesn’t hear us, isn’t answering us, or that we aren’t important or good enough to matter to Him. And yet, He knows what is best for us, that sometimes no answer is the answer, or that if we just learn to wait and trust and lean on Him instead of our understanding and devices that He will hear our cry and supply our needs. So often, some will hear His voice and return, “Oh, He really did hear my cry.” And sometimes, some will linger, caught up in their own paths and almost miss hearing that tug on their heart, until suddenly they hear that voice and come running, “I do matter, I’m not forgotten.” But then sadly, some never hear or come back to the voice that is calling them. I am reminded of an old song that runs dear to my heart. “Oh, what peace we often forfeit, oh what needless pain we bear. All because we do not carry, everything to God in prayer.” You do matter…..

Love Crosses All Barriers…

published 8/2/2017

My West Virginia is as beautiful as the many friends and loved ones that inhabit it. You will never find a part of this USA as beautiful, or the people any kinder. …”If or sea or land I roam, still I’ll think of happy home, and my friends among those West Virginia hills..” Abuse crosses all barriers, every ethic group, every culture, every state, every age, but so does God’s love. No matter where you live, there is a need for the broken and shattered to heal. I am reminded of the kind words that God spoke to my heart so long ago…”Am I a God that can deliver you out of your past and not a God who can heal you from it.” May you be blessed as you take this healing journey. Had a wonderful book signing at “The Truth That Rocks” bookstore in Northfield, NJ for “The Shattering” and “The Shattering II”. My sincere thanks to Bill Link for his great support.

A Journey With Hope…..

published 8/1/2017

There is a place where I grew up, commonly referred to back home, as the “Devil’s Slide”. Many of my childhood friends do not know that I lived in a little house beside my Grandma’s house on this cliff until I was six years old and then we moved down into the valley. It is properly called the “Devil’s Slide”, I do believe, as it is a slide down a steep cliff that there is no return. So often, many of us have begun to spiral down such slides and cliffs in our lives in despair and may feel we can never return again. But there is a HOPE. Such a blessed HOPE, that reaches down His eternal hand and rescues and saves us. All we have to do is call out and take that hand. Can there be a greater hope than that? Be encouraged, dear friend, in Christ, we always rise again. It is a Journey with HOPE. Had a great interview with Taylor Brannon at the “Truth That Rocks Radio Station” in Ocean City, NJ. My sincere thanks to Taylor, and Bill Link. Here is a short part of the live interview….

https://www.facebook.com/The-Shattering-215752548593960/notifications/

Shared from “Healing Waters Recordings

THIS IS WHERE IT ALL BEGAN…FALL OF 1972

We thank all for your continued support. Marty will be interviewed on Radio Stations 90.5 WXGN, 101.1 WXRM and 107.7 WRWL in Ocean City, NJ at 10:30 a.m on this Saturday, July 22. We will then have a book signing and CD sale together at “The Truth That Rocks Bookstore” located at 1100 New Road, Northfield, NJ from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m also on Saturday, July 22. WE ARE HAPPY TO SHARE THAT THE ATLANTIC CITY PRESS will also be there to conduct an interview for a story. Every purchase of “The Shattering II” will receive a FREE CD of “A Shattered Vessel”, a song which I wrote exclusively for this book. Marty also speaks a narrative on this CD. All purchases go directly to support the ministry. Again, thank you for your support and looking forward to seeing everyone.

published 7/21/2017

How Big is Your God….

published 7/19/2017

Looking forward to seeing everyone. Thank you Bill for this opportunity and your support. God is a Sustainer through our hard times, a Deliverer from every chain that has ever had us bound, and what most people miss with our emotional being, is a marvelous Healer. God said to my heart those many years ago–“Am I God enough to bring you out of your past and not God enough to heal you from it?” He who God has set free is free indeed.

Breaking The Silence….

published 7/19/2017

One of my favorite quotes from the new book “The Shattering II ‘Breaking the Silence'”, is “If we can be brave enough to enter into the dark shadows of the unspeakable and pull back the curtains, we not only reveal the light but we also set the captives free. It is God’s desire to take you from lost to found, from victim to victor, from death to life.” Will be in my ole home ground of New Jersey and will have a book signing on Saturday, July 22, from 12:00-2:00 at the “Truth That Rocks Bookstore” located at 1100 New Road in Northfield, NJ 08225. Also, prior to this book signing, I will have a live interview at 10:30 a.m on Saturday on “Truth That Rocks” radio station, 90.5 WXGN, 101.1 WXRM and 107.7 WRWL at 801 Asbury Ave. Ocean City, NJ. All welcome

A Touch of Love….

published 7/2/2017

There are few things more precious in life, than a small child taking a hold of your hand. Their tiny hand wiggling, until it grasps tightly, feels secure, and then rests peacefully in yours. This touch of love…
Not long ago, I was walking in a parking lot with one of my young grandsons. I asked him, “I know you are a big boy now, but can you still take Gramma’s hand. He looked up at me with a twinkle in those rich blue eyes, and a warm smile, and said, “Sure, MeMaw.” I smiled back and said, “You know someday, Gramma will be “older” and I may need you to hold my hand. Will you still hold it then?” “I will, Me Maw,” he stated without a moment’s hesitation. That look of determination as he grasped my hand tight, said more than his words. I was reminded of this again this week, as I spent some time with my older grandsons. As we crossed the busy streets, I asked for their hands. I was surprised, to not have them protest, as they are older. Once again, I couldn’t help but think, that those still small hands in mine would someday and not many years from now, be big. There is something precious in moments like this. Love is captured and etched in our hearts.
A touch of love…in the smallest gestures; a kind smile, a gentle word. When was the last time you reached out to others instead of waiting for them to reach out to you? Such power we possess to touch a heart, to change a life.
I visited with the women at the Virginia Beach Correctional Facility. I couldn’t help wonder as I spoke, what each of them looked like as a little girl. What happens to that little girl? What happens when a child is broken and shattered? A child does not plan to grow up and go to jail. A touch of love, God’s love, can make such a difference. “Is it that simple, ‘Marty’?” “Yes, I see it on their faces every time, I visit.”
My sincere thanks to Corporal Harvey, Sgt. Holas and Ms. Simmons for making this visit possible.

copyright 2017 Marsha Barth

A Shattered Vessel….

published 6/22/17

This inspirational new song, “A Shattered Vessel” is written and sung by Michael Barth. It was written and inspired from the book “The Shattering II” written by Marsha Barth. “A Shattered Vessel” can be downloaded at http://cdbaby.com/cd/michaelbarth3 and will soon be available on Amazon and all media sources. The Shattering II is available at Amazon, all book stores, and can be ordered directly from the author from this site or by contacting her at https://marshabarth.com Book is personalized and CD is free when book is ordered directly from the author. “Joy comes in the morning.” https://youtu.be/YWpv8SeLdHA

copyright Marsha Barth 2017

I Found Hope….

published 6/21/17

The other day I saw something under the couchThe other day I saw something under the couch. Having 7 grandchildren under 11 years old, I figured it was a toy that had gotten lost in the shuffle. I bent down and reached under the couch and pulled it out. To my surprise, I found Hope. It was one of my coasters. I had lost Hope. I held the coaster in my hand and studied it. It said, “HOPE with God, everything is possible.” Matthew 19:26. It made me smile.

I wonder, how many times have you lost HOPE? So often we don’t find it, because we are looking in all the wrong places. We use hope like a wish list. I hope things get better, I hope things will work out, I hope I get the new job, the new car, the new house. We grab for facades of hope, anything that we think might work, money, drugs, alcohol… Anything that we think might satisfy us or numb our problems and feelings. But what about HOPE? “Hope is tangible and breathes life and passion into every human soul that dares to reach out, grab it and believe.” “Looking for that ‘blessed hope’.” Titus 2:13.
I found that ‘blessed hope’ so long ago as that lost little girl. Ironically, it was not lost, I was. Now I count it all joy to be able to go into the prisons and help others find that “blessed Hope”. I’m so glad that Jesus is that Hope and that He is more than a dusty coaster under the couch.

Will visit and speak at the Virginia Beach Correctional Center on June 28.

A Shattered Vessel no more….

published 6/4/17

I wanted to share this from “Healing Waters Recordings”…….

To everyone who have so graciously supported us,

My new song “A Shattered Vessel” is currently in production and my publisher will be releasing it shortly worldwide. This is a ten minute single which we will include, no charge, with every purchase of Marty’s book, “The Shattering II”. It will also be available for download on all sites worldwide. The beginning of this piece is sung about a broken vessel, which is normally thrown away, yet there is a God WHO can put the pieces back together again, without the cracks, into a new one. In the center we hear Marty (Marsha Barth) personally speak, which is a very touching testimony to all. The ending is an uplifitng version of “A Shattered Vessel.”

Thanking all of you again, for your support! I am attaching again, by request, the music player for “Tranquil Moments”. This CD is currently now being used in some of our local therapy offices. It is also available for download or purchase worldwide on all media sources or through us personally.

Just click on this link for “Tranquil Moments”… http://widget.cdbaby.com/a3529794-ce29-43dc-b596-b75baf4a3053/mini/light/opaque

The Light Still Shines…..

published 5/26/17

I am always amazed that in the darkest of night, the sun is still shining. Just because the earth has turned from its rays does not mean that it has ceased to shine. The sun will shine, whether we see it or not, whether we believe it or not, whether we turn from it, or whether we want it to or not. It is a reality that cannot cease. So it is with God’s love. His rays of Love and Hope may be hidden behind the dark clouds of your circumstances, behind the darkest of your nights. You may not believe His Love and Hope are there because you do not see it or feel the warmth of its rays on your heart and soul. But maybe it is because you have moved in another direction, rotated on your axis, made your own choices, hardened your heart, and turned away, refusing to believe that you could dare matter to God. And yet you do! The “Light” still shines. Can you see it now?

Visited the Lebanon County Correctional Facility in Lebanon, PA with our team on Monday night. The “Light” still shines.

Going Back…..

published 5/19/2017

It was the most beautiful day. The sun was shining, the birds singing and the sky was bluer than I had seen it for a long time. Every winding road welcomed me back. I went in to WV to visit my mom for Mother’s Day and was blessed to be with her and her sister-My Aunt Joanie. What a lovely time we had. They are 82 and 84 years old, and meaning this in the most positive way, more like 22 and 24. I love that they are still so alive, vibrant, and inspiring.

Sometimes when we are a child, we don’t always realize or look at our moms as having had it difficult. Sometimes there are no answers. Sometimes, the questions have not been asked.
It is sometimes hard for me to visit back home. As much as I love those WV hills, and the wonderful memories that I have with my family, there are often times, some darker corners that I end up visiting as well. We must always go back to our past as Victors and never as Victims. So why do we go back to those darker corners? To take The Light. The Light and The Hope that can pierce the darkness. But if it is so painful, why go to those places? We don’t go back to stir it all up and to feel pain. We go back to heal from it. We are more than…..You are more than…. You are an Overcomer… You are a Conqueror…You are a Victor…..

Will have a Book Signing tomorrow at this wonderful event. Sponsored by Overcoming Powerlessness (Founder and Director) Bonnie Wilt will have guest speaker Delilah Rumburg (CEO of PCAR) speak tomorrow Saturday May 20. Overcoming Powerlessness deals with overcoming emotional abuse. For more information visit www.ICanBreakFree.com

copyright marsha barth 2017

But There is Hope….

published 5/1/2017

If you have a special cup and the handle gets broken, you can glue it back together. You don’t mind the crack. But, if you drop it and it shatters in a million pieces, you reluctantly and sadly sweep it up and throw it away. Broken can be fixed, but shattered can’t. “All the kings horses and all the kings men, couldn’t put Humpty together again.” This is what happens to shattered hearts. But we have a Hope, “steadfast and sure, an anchor of the soul.” Jesus is our Hope. He is more than a Humpty Dumpty God who puts us back together again…But a God who makes us a “new creature in Him.” It is that Hope that takes us from Victim to Victor!

What an honor and privilege to take this message of Hope to others. Was the guest speaker for Luzerne County’s Child Advocacy Center in Wilkes-Barre, PA. My sincere thanks to Shannon Peduto and her staff for inviting me and for all that they do for the children. My sincere thanks also to my wonderful husband who is my friend, my love, and my strongest supporter.

copyright 2017 Marsha Barth

From Victim to Victor

published 4/27/17

I count it an honor to have the opportunity to speak for the Luzerne County Child Advocacy Center at their 3rd annual Fundraising Gala on Saturday April 29, 2017 in Wilkes-Barre, PA. This large event is to support the Advocacy’s Center in their great work that they do for the awareness, prevention and intervention for our greatest heritage…our children, in the fight against child abuse. We cannot change what we are not aware of and we cannot heal from what we won’t acknowledge. We can go from Victim to Victor!

We Have an Anchor…

published 4/24/17

I was surprised the other day. Children make our heart smile. Their laughter is like a breath of fresh air. They personify all that is good and precious. In the path I have chosen, I get to interact a lot with children. The other day, I heard two of them talking. They were discussing how they wanted to do something together but because of their age difference would have to tell a little white lie. I just listened. We learn so much by listening. I waited and then said…giving them a different option. As they considered it, I said, “We can’t lie, even a little white lie.” Since they were listening, I grabbed the moment and continued, “Do you know why?” I didn’t want to lose them on this point. “When we lie, even a little lie, even for a good reason, we allow that spirit in our heart. And then when we are sad or discouraged because we’ve allowed it to be part of our lives, it lies to us. It tells us that we don’t matter, that we are not important, that no one loves us.” To my surprise, they both answered, “I think that all the time.” We don’t think that children ever feel this way. We actually, don’t consider that people as a whole can think and feel this way at any given time in their life. I said, “The enemy of your soul desires for you to think that, to destroy you.” They wanted to know who. I said, “Satan.” I then continued. The Bible says, “He seeks to kill, steal and destroy.” I paused to let it sink in and then said, “But…Jesus said, ‘I have come that you might have life and more abundantly.'” There is a need to let our children and people know that they do matter. There is a need to let others know that there is an enemy of our soul, Satan, who seeks to sift us as wheat, but that we have a HOPE (Jesus) who gives us life, joy, and love, more abundantly. We hold back on stating the name of our enemy and we hold back on stating the name of our redeemer. We have this HOPE. “Which Hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast,” Hebrews 6:19. At such a time as this….know you are loved….know that you matter,— to God, to others.
Will visit and speak to the inmates at Lebanon County Prison tonight with the team.

The Hope…..

published 4/16/17

“Christ in You, THE HOPE of GLORY!” Colossians 1:27

He is that thread of hope that fills our heart and leads us from Victim to Victor~~

Live Interview…

http://abc27.com/2017/04/14/author-spotlight-marsha-barths-the-shattering-ii/

Because He Lives…..

published 4/14/17

Because He lives—We live also..

Because He rose again—We rise again too….

Interviewed Live with Amy Kehm on ABC TV Good Day PA

http://abc27.com/2017/04/14/author-spotlight-marsha-barths-the-shattering-ii/

He Has Risen….

published 4/13/17

I can think of no better day than tomorrow to interview LIVE on “ABC’C WHTM Good Day PA” with Amy Kehm. Tomorrow is Good Friday. As a child, I could never understand why they called the day that Jesus died–GOOD. But in His dying, He gave us EVERYTHING good–a new life, an eternal life, a new hope. He arose from the bondage of pain, sorrow, death and hell. He conquered these. And when He arose–He brought us with Him. How can we ask for more?

Will interview with the new sequel just released–“The Shattering II”
Interview airs LIVE at 12:30 p.m., April 14, 2017. Will post link at a later date.

We Live because He died……

Never Give Up~~

published 4/6/17

Marsha Barth & PA Senator Lisa Baker Marsha Barth speaking at PA State Capitol

Ah…It was there. I saw it for the first time today as I looked out the window. Ever so slightly, but it was there. That slight brush of green, just beginning to pop out. It is Spring. I know we thought that was two weeks ago, but it wasn’t there then. It was buried under the 18 inches of snow that had hit us. There is something breathtaking, when a new season breaks forth. Everything is so fresh, so new, and alive. It is often that way with our lives. We wait for the long winter season to be past. And then one day, when we least expect it, we look, and there it is. A new hope springs forth. The sky is bluer, the birds sing sweeter, and the flowers begin to break forth, promising the breakthrough that we have waited for so long. “Though it tarry, it shall surely come.” Never give up. “Do not be weary in well doing, for in due season, you shall reap if you faint not.”
I spoke at the Capitol this week in Harrisburg for National Crime Victim’s Rights Week. My heart was moved by the stories of others who have come through horrific ordeals in their life, still waiting for their Spring to break forth, waiting for healing to come, and justice to be served. As we stand in the gap, let us always remember with compassion, the loss of others. Let us always reach out a helping hand, a shoulder to cry on and a word of hope and promise, that others may find their way…..
My sincere thanks to CVAP for this opportunity to speak. My thanks to all of our Senators and Representatives who fight so hard for this cause to make a difference.

532 Pinwheels……

published 4/5/17

I have always loved pinwheels. Oh the magic of an invisible force moving and spinning the wheel. To hold one is to become a child again. There were 532 pinwheels spinning magically on Friday at the Luzerne County Courthouse. Each pinwheel represented a brave child in 2016, who had the courage to speak up about being abused. We cannot prevent what we are not aware of and we cannot heal from what we won’t acknowledge. I was blessed to be a guest speaker for the Luzerne County Child’s Advocacy Center on Friday. My sincere thanks to Shannon and her staff, their kindness and hospitality, and for the amazing work that they do. To hear the presentation please visit….
https://www.facebook.com/Luzerne-County-Child-Advocacy-Center-296425397192771/

We Can Make a Difference…

published 3/30/17

My children and grandchildren were up Sunday to celebrate my birthday. There are seven under eleven these days. As I heard the front door open, I heard the actual soft voice of my Colin-“Hi MeMaw”, he called. I met him at the landing and received the biggest hug ever. Benjamin followed next. Rather than stop my hug with Colin, I just pulled Benjamin into the hug. Next was Isaac and then Jadon. It was a great group hug. I found our little Matthew off to the side taking it all in shyly. But then he came running into my arms and I ate him up as he laid his head on my shoulder. My heart smiles at the blessings that God has given me. He promised me all of this when I was twelve years old and living in a very dark period of my young life. He showed me then that I mattered and has kept every word of His promises to me. April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. We can’t prevent what we are not aware of and we can’t heal from what we won’t acknowledge. God has so much in store for all of us. Joy does come in the morning. I will be a guest speaker for the Lucerne County Child Advocacy Center tomorrow in Wilkes-Barre. Everyone welcome. New book has arrived! Both books will be available at this special event and book signing. We can make a difference!

Dealing with Conflict God’s Way

published 3/30/17

There is a sweetness that fills my heart when I think about the God who created everything, reached down to this little WV girl and changed my life forever. There is a hope that radiates from His presence when we experience the reality of His love for us. He sees every tear that falls. He knows the depths of your heart. He sees the hurt that you hide from everyone. May He hide you in the cleft of the rock, ’til the storm passes by’. So enjoyed being a part of this conference. What a wonderful presence of God. My thanks to everyone who joined us. Special thanks to Toni Cipolla Stewart, and Theresa Johnson for all they do.

published 3/22/2017

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. We cannot prevent what we won’t deal with. Will be a guest speaker for the Luzerne County Child Advocacy Center on March 31st. This event is open to all who want to come and support this worthy cause. It will be held in the Rotunda at the Luzerne County Courthouse, 200 N River St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711 and starts at 11:00. It is estimated that there are 60,000,000 survivors of child sexual abuse alone. We will all know a loved one that has been affected by some type of abuse at sometime in our life. Will you know how to help them, love them and show them that they are more than what has happened to them? Come join us. Books available-Signing event-The Shattering and The Shattering II. Marsha Barth-Author, Advocate, Speaker. For more information please contact Shannon Peduto at 570-208-2895 ext 302

Dealing with Conflict God’s Way

published 3/17/2017

“Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which does so easily beset us.” Hebrews 12:1. How do you deal with the conflicts in your life? Is it with anger, fear, guilt, shame, blame, denial, justification, minimization, manipulation, intimidation….? What tools do you go into battle with? How are they working? You can never resolve conflict through your emotions. So how do we deal with conflict God’s way? Come to this great conference on March 25 and find out more.
Author/Speaker/Advocate—-Marsha Barth

Setting the Captives Free

published 3/14/2017

If we can be brave enough to enter into the dark
shadows of the unspeakable and pull back the curtains,
we not only reveal the light but we also set the captives
free. It is God’s desire to take you from lost to found,
from victim to victor, from death to life.” Excerpt from the sequel “The Shattering II”, to be released April 1, 2017. Healing is a journey, a worthwhile one. We were never meant to stay in the pangs of hurt, pain, and anger. We serve a God who cares. He is a God who not only delivers us out of our past but heals us from it. Both of the books will take you on a healing journey-from victim to victor. More than a victimization story, they are both stories of the the promise of hope, the power of love and the joy of overcoming.

The Pain is Gone

published 3/4/2017

Visited the Lebanon County Prison on Monday evening with the team. What does it take to be set free???
Often in my childhood, the issue of child abuse is the focus, but there were good memories too. I think that is what I treasure the most with the books that I have written. More than the victimization and sorrow, there was also a Hope. Many of you know that my husband and I had a business for 27 years. We shared a lifetime of memories there–with our children, customers who became forever friends, and the joy of starting and running a successful business. But there were also hard times too. There were floods, pumping out 500,000 gallons of water, battles, and many dragons to slay also. I drive past there in traveling many times a week. Amazingly, though, it doesn’t trouble me to ride past it. There is no drawing back, regrets, or pain. Like my childhood, I can go back. Often, I am asked why go back, to my childhood, isn’t it painful? We don’t go back to re-feel the pain, we go back to heal from it. We have to deal, to heal, to feel again. Healing is a journey, a worthwhile one. When God delivers us out from the circumstances that have affected us in our life, He can also make us whole. Is He God enough to bring us out of the pain and not God enough to heal us from it? He that has set us free, is free indeed! We can go back. We can heal. The pain is gone. And it is a new day! Healing is a journey. Will you start yours today? Visit me at https://www.facebook.com/The-Shattering-215752548593960/

“MeMaw’s here. It’s okay.”

published 2/17/2017

Great Interview with Paul Johnson from The God Zone Show!
http://traffic.libsyn.com/go…/Episode_040_-_Marsha_Barth.mp3

We got hit with a tornado the other day up here on the mountain; took down lots of trees and knocked our electric out for 24 hours. I just so happened to have three of my six grandsons staying overnight. The little ones, ages three and one were a little baffled. They thought as long as the sunlight was still coming in that the lights worked. It wasn’t until nighttime that they began to wonder. To make it fun, we had a picnic indoors with candlelight for dinner. They liked that. Then my little Isaac says, “I don’t want to sleep upstairs, Me Maw.” I said, “No, you don’t have to, we’re all going to have a “camp out” in the living room tonight together.” It became a fun thing. During the night, though, from time to time, one of them would cry out in their sleep, sometimes a little wimper, then a cry, or a groan. I didn’t want them to wake up, so I said softly, “It’s okay, MeMaw is here.” All through the night when they would become restless, I would just say, “It’s okay, MeMaw is here.” I lay there and thought of that as I heard them go back to sleep. How soothing is the voice of someone we love and trust. How comforting and assuring to hear the sound of a voice or feel the simple touch of someone that we know loves and cares for us and to have that simple faith that they will not let anything happen to us. This simple faith, that I learned from my grandsons, applies so much to our trust in our loving God and Savior. Can you hear him say to you right now? “It’s okay, Jesus is here.” Can you feel His gentle loving touch as he tucks you in and comforts you amidst your anguished moments that you are facing right now? Can you hear His still small voice as He whispers lovingly to you? “It’s okay, I am here.” Can you believe that He loves you that much? Can you believe that you really do matter to Him? In case you can’t, remember, “It’s okay. Jesus is here.”

We Can Slay Our Giants!

published 2/17/17

I have a favorite flower that I love to see when I go to Hawaii. It is called “Ginger”. It is usually a large red pine cone looking flower. If you go to smell it, it really has no smell. It feels like soft rubber when you touch it. I learned that you can take it in both of your hands and squeeze it real hard and it will not hurt it at all but pressing it will cause it to release the most beautiful fragrance you have ever smelled. People see me do this in the gardens and think I am killing the flower or that I have gone a little wacky. It is only in pressing hard the flower that its purpose is fulfilled. So often issues of our lives press us sore. We feel that surely we will be crushed and destroyed by the problems of our lives sometimes. But this is when the sweet fragrance of our purpose can flow forth. We are not destroyed. We can slay our “Giants”. “We are troubled on every side and not distressed, perplexed but not in despair, persecuted but not forsaken, cast down but not destroyed.” 2 Corinthians 4:8. We can go forth in Victory, knowing that we are not defeated, just pressed, and let God raise us up with a sweet fragrance, overcoming, and “Slaying our Giants.” Was blessed to be a guest speaker at the Orlando Community Release Center. My sincere thanks to Major Gisela Budet, Sgt. Jeaneen Gomolinski, and Assistant Warden-David Colon.

Why Do These Things Happen?

published 2/15/17

“Don’t leave me daddy.” I hear these words echo through my mind. We never know what will happen and unfold in a day. We have been taking the family to Disney for the last 27 years. I never heard the loud thump on the concrete, Mike and Missy did. I only heard the agony of a cry that went straight through me. It pierced through the laughter of families enjoying each other, the hustle of people pressing through crowds and the crying of babies. “Help me, please, someone please help.” It was not a quiet plea, but an earnest cry of desperation that stopped everything and everyone in that small circle of surrounding people. Some of us stood frozen, not knowing how to respond. You want to run and do something but your mind just stops and your legs don’t move, at least for a second. Mike dialed 911. I ran to the woman and the fallen man. I am not a nurse or a paramedic. I am a Christian. I knelt down beside the man and took his head gently in my hands to steady him as he struggled to breathe and began to pray earnestly. There is power in prayer. There is a power at the very mention of the name of Jesus. You can feel the presence of God even when your mind still refuses to grasp the moment. The spirit in us responds one way while our emotions and mind react another. The woman continued to cry out for help. I continued to pray as two women in the crowd rushed in to help. They had medical backgrounds and started CPR. There are no coincidences when God has us at a given place at a given time. I saw the look on the man’s face as he grasped for life. I’ve seen this look before. The man looks into my eyes but they are blank, fixed and fading. I continue to speak Jesus. They rip his shirt and began CPR. “Lord you have the keys to death and hell. Lord help him. Jesus help him,” I prayed. I hear his wife frantically scream- “Stay with us David!” “Stay with us!” They hook the pads we all get back and then we resume what we were doing. Only then did I realize that my hands were covered in blood from his head injury. We don’t know if it is a heart attack or a stroke. I continue to pray, they continue to work on David. I feel the presence of God. We can’t know what happens during a traumatic moment. We can’t know what is happening physically as this father, husband, fights for his life. We can’t know what is happening spiritually to this man as God’s spirit is moving and dealing with his heart and soul. Just because the body does not respond does not mean that nothing is happening-spiritually or physically. I hear the young daughter slightly in the distance cry out– “Don’t leave me daddy!”–this precious soul, this daddy so loved, this husband endeared. The paramedics come and take over and take him away as he still fights for that precious gift of life. You wonder what God did, because you know His presence was there. You wonder if he will make it or pass over. You wonder if he had a relationship with God, his salvation, his eternity, his life. There is a peace that settles on you not because of anything that you’ve done, but because you know the presence of God was there and angels were encamped around us. All that was seen can never compare to what was unseen. I cannot take for granted this gift of life that God has given us. I cannot take for granted this salvation that is always before us. Will we reach out and grab it right where we are right now, or will we wait for another time, a convenient season? Why would we wait? What does hinder us from surrendering our whole heart and soul to this Jesus who stands at the door of our heart and knocks? There are no coincidences–even that you are reading this. “Today is the day of salvation. Choose this day who you will serve. For what is our life, it is even a vapor that appears for a little while and then is gone.” Something happened in the fight for this precious soul. I don’t know the outcome physically or spiritually. But I know that God loved this soul, took the time from heaven to come to his side, to touch his soul to show him His love. Can you dare believe—He loves you the same? As we left the park that night, my eye caught the glint and shimmer of a small object rising slowly up to the sky. A balloon, floated slowly upwards, blowing gently side to side, swaying in the breezes as it rose majestically above the buildings until it was free–free to spiral upward, free to claim all that lies before it, free to find a new hope, whether in this life or the one to come. In the end, the question is not so much—why do these things happen—but what is God doing when they do.

Does Anyone “Really” Care?

published 1/25/17

I saw a sign yesterday that said, “God really cares for you.” I liked the emphasis on “really”. Visited the Lebanon County Prison on Monday evening with the team.The inmates don’t know that God “REALLY” cares for them. They don’t even know that God cares for them. They are sitting in prison, where they see no way out, feel like a failure, and don’t know how to turn their lives around. How could a good God love them, they wonder. “How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard?” Rom.10:14 Who is in “their” prison right now and does not know that God “REALLY CARES” for “you”? Been slaying dragons lately and felt God took the time to give that sign just for me–but I just had to share it with you. Be blessed–He loves you right where you are.

Going from “Victim to “Victor”

published 1/20/17

Salvation is Hope–Hope is Redemption–Redemption brings Restoration. Interviewed with Donna Ghanney. Visit and listen at the below links…..

https://youtu.be/3vn5kqqqHCI
http://keitv12-channel.sitefly.co/

Full Surrender~~Full Victory!

published 1/17/17

Was blessed to interview with Paul Johnson today on the God Zone Show. Will post link as soon as available. Salvation can only come by full surrender.
“We give Christ our Hurt~He gives us Relief
We give Him our AngerHe gives us Joy
We give Him our Pain~ He gives us Rest
We give Him our UnforgivenessHe gives us Peace
We give Him our ControlHe gives us Power
We give Him our Surrender He gives us Victory
We give Him Death~He gives us Life” (mlb)
Salvation is HopeHope is Redemption~~Redemption brings Restoration!

Do You Have Hope?

published 1/10/17

Hope is the soul’s breath of life. We cannot live without it.
Where is your hope? What is your hope? Have you lost hope? Have you given up hope? Do you believe in hope? So often we say-I’ve lost hope, or I give up hope. Interesting how losing hope is unintentional, but giving up hope is a choice. “Hope is tangible and breathes life and passion into every human soul that dares to reach out, grab it, and believe.” (mlb) “If we can be brave enough to enter into the dark shadows of the unspeakable and pull back the curtains, we not only reveal the light but we also set the captives free. It is God’s desire to take us from lost to found, from “Victim to Victor”, from death to life.”(mlb) He is that Hope! Interviewed with Donna Ghanney on KEITV 12-Kingdom-Hour. Will post link at a later date.There is an old song that we used to sing–” My hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus’ blood and righteousness; I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on Jesus’ name. On Christ, the solid Rock, I stand; All other ground is sinking sand. If you’ve lost hope, maybe what you lost wasn’t hope. Maybe you’ve never known a true hope. Instead of looking for a hope you feel you have lost and maybe have never had, why not reach out to that God of Hope and let that hope fill you with joy and peace, that you may ABOUND in a real and true HOPE. Romans 15:13 This is a new year, a new season, a new hope. “I will not forget you, for I have carved you on my hands.” Isaiah 49:15-16

A Tribute to Love

published 12/29/16

The snow crunched beneath our feet as we began to trudge up the hill to gramma’s house that day. I glanced at my three brothers. We looked like snow dolls. The freshly falling snow clung on our eyelashes and our cheeks were a rosy glow. There was a hush, a quietness that is only known during those first few hours that snow falls. Our laughter echoed through the valley breaking the stillness that surrounded us.
Gramma’s house was quaint, but the security and love it represented had always been a refuge for us. The big oak in gramma’s front yard towered before us as we approached her house. We were almost there and I paused for a few moments to get my breath. My thoughts wandered. Mom and Dad had just gotten divorced. Everything had changed and a great sorrow had filled my heart. I was eight years old and life had suddenly became very complicated as I discovered that the world is not always a wonderful and perfect place. The thud of a snowball hitting my shoulder and two more soaring past my head brought my thoughts back to the present. Grabbing a handful of the freshly fallen snow, I tried to pack a snowball to throw back at my brothers but the snow powdered through my fingers as I threw it and the remnant missed them completely as they ran ahead.
“Wait up you guys,” I yelled, as we all headed for the door to gramma’s house. We barged gleefully into the house, letting the door slam behind us. We yanked off our coats and threw them on the three-foot heap of coats already piled upon grandpap’s old stereo. Gramma and our aunts were all busy cooking dinner. Some were stirring, some were mashing and all were talking. There was nothing fancy at Gramma’s house. There was no wreath on the door, no garland draped around the stairs, no silver or china on the table. There was just a warmth that engulfed the soul and gave a security that only the love of Christmas can bring.
I saw that the table would soon need to be set, so I darted up the steps quickly before I was seen. I rounded the corner, past the old piano and into the living room that was full of the chatter of my brothers and cousins.
In the corner was gramma’s Christmas tree. It was a little pine that my uncle had cut down out of the woods a few days before. The tiny tree was trimmed and twinkled in the dim light. I stood watching the bubble lights. These were my favorites. I became oblivious to the laughter of my cousins and brothers as I gazed into the reflections of those same ornaments that gramma placed on the tree each year.
I knew that later we would eat dinner and then all of us would gather in this tiny room and gramma would give us our presents. The room would burst with the voices of so many loved ones. I can still hear them in my heart to this day.
Somehow Christmas was different after that year. All are so precious. They come together now as a collage of memories filled with love; more an era of my life than separate events.
Christmas was no longer presents under the tree. It was love and family. For the first time, I began to see the real meaning that was represented in the Saviour’s birth. It was the gift of love.
Copywright 2003—Marty Barth

He Sets the Captives Free~~

published 11/30/16

You never get used to the sounds as you walk through prison doors–the clank of the iron door as the guards let you in, the moment of silence as you wait for it to close and the next door to open with the same loud clank, the quiet walk down the corridor, then the noise of the heavy iron gate as it slowly rattles and slides across the floor with a loud grind, only to hear the loud rumble of it echoing through the walkway as it slowly begins to close, and then with one loud clank of finality, you hear it slam shut tight behind you. It is a great peace to my heart in knowing that in two hours, I will walk back through these doors. It is a great sorrow for me in knowing that the people I visit, will not. We are to bring good tidings to those who have lost their way, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound. Isaiah 61. Visited the women at Lebanon County Correctional Center last night with our great team to bring them the hope of a God that is real and cares for them right where they are. He sets the captives free!

More Abundantly~~

published 11/7/2016

Driving today, I saw three vultures perched high in a tree. What caught my attention was that there were other trees around, beautiful trees, with fall foliage. But they chose the one that was half dead. They didn’t even perch on the part that was alive. They had to sit on the dead side, sitting there, waiting for death, longing to devour and destroy. I couldn’t help think of a verse that I so often hear quoted. “The (enemy) comes but to steal, kill, and destroy.” So often that is all we hear of that verse. It goes on to say the words of our Jesus–“I am come that they may have LIFE and MORE ABUNDANTLY!” We were never meant to be victims. We were never meant to remain victims. We were meant to be Victors! We go from Victim to Victor– from Death to Life, from Despair to Hope, from Brokenness to Wholeness, from Sorrow to Joy and not only in part, but “MORE ABUNDANTLY” I was so blessed to speak at Providence Presbyterian Church for their weekend retreat. My sincere thanks to Pastor Vince, Delilah Rumburg, and the precious committee and staff that made this all possible.

A Rainbow of Promise~~

published 10/19/16

The thing that surprises me the most in what I am doing is seeing the transformation that God can make in a life. It is like watching a beautiful butterfly emerge from its dark world into a new life, a new hope, a new season. I was blessed to speak to the women at The Family Recovery Center. They are rainbows of promise. My thanks to Lisa and Anthea for arranging this.

Calling the Sad and Brokenhearted~~

published 10/19/16

“A broken heart and a contrite spirit, God will not refuse.” I used to struggle every night to climb up on the foot of my bed rail. In my hand, I held a small worn piece of cardboard. As I managed to balance myself, I would reach quickly for the cord that turned my light on. If I missed it, I ended up on the floor. If I grabbed it, the light would come on as I yanked the cord inadvertently, more to catch my balance, than to turn the light …

Image may contain: pool, tree and outdoor

How Can A Life Change?

published 10/19/16

Except a seed of hope is planted in a heart, except that seed fall on fertile ground, except that soul see their need, except that heart knows the reality of a God that truly does care, a life cannot change. Sometimes the words are patient and kind. Sometimes the words are straight forward in truth. But always a word in season cannot fall short of its purpose. I was able to speak to the women inmates Monday at Maui Correctional Center and then later spoke to the men inmates. My thanks to Francis Zabinski and Andy Tong for arranging this and the kind and aloha welcome from all the MCCC inmates. On Tuesday, I was a guest speaker to a sexual offender group. This cannot surprise others any more than it surprised me. But, it is necessary. The messages are always different for every venue. There is an accountability that will never be obtained by offenders unless they realize the devastation that they have caused to others. And so we go forward…..
“…….and how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear …unless someone tells them.” Romans 10:14

A New Hope~~

published 9/29/16

We live in a world today whose cliches are without compassion– from “Get over it”, to “Whatever”, to “Get a Life”. When did we become such a heartless society? When we lost hope, seized to know that we mattered, and failed to realize the love and reality of a God who truly loves us and cares for us. My heart is always touched when I see souls touched with a new Hope. “This Hope we have as an anchor of the Soul, a Hope both sure and stedfast…” Hebrews 6:19 Was a guest speaker at the Aloha House on Thursday. My thanks to Daryl Selman, Tony and Jo for their warm welcome and support.

From Victim to Victor…

published 9/21/2016

We can heal. God can take us from Victim to Victor. Are you ready to go on a healing journey? There is joy in overcoming. All are welcome.

DESCRIPTION

Marsha Barth Keynote Speaker

In her recent book “The Shattering” Marsha tells her true life story of overcoming child sexual abuse. More than another story of victimization, it is a story of “the power of love, the promise of hope and the inspiration of knowing that what has happened to us does not define who we are”. Marsha’s powerful story will enable the reader to understand abuse from a child’s perspective. She draws from her life experiences and brings forth the message to the broken, hopeless, abused and shattered, to let them know that they do matter so that every soul may know the reality of a God who truly loves and cares for them.

Friday night will be open to the public to learn about the impact of family abuse.

Saturday will be an event for women who have suffered from abuse or those who wish to support them. There will be testimonies from a number of people, featuring Marsha Barth.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/voices-moving-from-victim-to-survivor-tickets-25389924949?aff=efbneb

Finding Normal….

published 9/21/2016

I often said that once we sold our business, I would try to find normal. Life always finds ways to spin us-round and round as we are trying to get where we are going and not always sure of where we are coming from. But the other day, I got a glimpse of normal and it made my heart smile. The hum of the stove fan, Mike playing music in the background, the smell of supper cooking and the aroma filling the house, my grandchildren’s voices resounding joyfully as they played in the next room, with tinker toys, no less, stopped me from my busy routine. I stirred supper and looked around and my heart was full of thankfulness. Maybe finding normal isn’t really that hard. We just have to take the time to actually see the joy that is in our lives daily. I see the broken and shattered at almost every event that I speak at. I am so aware of the hurts and pain that others are carrying, ever so tucked so far down within themselves and buried under denial and minimization. Now is the time to be free…”casting all of your care upon Him for He cares for you.” Be encouraged my friend, it cannot rain forever. God’s rainbow of promise and love awaits for you to come to Him. Be Blessed.

We Are More Than….

Published 8/29/2016

Mr. Waggely was my seventh grade teacher. He had a crew cut of salt and pepper hair, liked to sit at his desk and rub hand cream to his hands and absolutely loved to slam the paddle down on his desk and scream in his high pitched voice, “All right you birds, settle down.” After jumping nearly out of our chairs and regaining our heart beat back to normal, he would proceed to call out our test score grades to the class. I remember the first time that he did this. I was scared to death of this man but not of my test scores. He went down alphabetically. When he got to my name, he said, “Layton”, 98% and then gave a long pause. I waited for him to continue. I waited for him to finish, to say something nice. I waited for the paddle to come down on the desk, anything. But there was just this pause, and then he said something that I have never forgotten, ” ‘Layton’, you must have either studied hard or lucked out!” I just sat there, letting his words smack me. I said nothing out loud. I just sat there twitching nervously in my seat. But inside, I was screaming out loud, “You just watch me, you ole buzzard, I’ll show you!” I purposed in my heart that I would ace every test, just to show him that I could. Why? Because, God had gotten a hold of my heart that had been really crushed that year, and He fortified me and took me under His wing and He taught me a lesson that I have never forgotten…. “I was more than……”
All welcome to attend this Women’s Retreat. Expecting a great move of God’s presence, a time of refreshing, sharing and fellowship.

You Don’t Need Wings to Fly~~

Published 8/23/2016

I visited the Lebanon County Correctional Facility last night with our team. We all need to be reminded that we don’t need wings to fly, only a hope in a God who is real, who loves you more than you have ever known, who will carry you through the storm, help you to mount up on eagle’s wings, run and not be weary, and walk and not faint. The other day, while outside, I was startled as a small figure caught my eye as it rustled through the treetops. The tree was at least fifty feet high. How was it possible that anything but a bird could be perched so agile up that high? I strained my eyes to get a better look. The small creature had stopped to rest. I still could not make out what it was, but it had no wings. Then it leaped and I saw the bushy tail swing in the air. Ten feet it lunged to another treetop, unafraid of falling. He had no wings. He then scurried down the tree totally unaware of the danger of falling. How confident he was, never hesitating and sure of his path, he raced to the ground in leaps and bounds; never daunted by the obstacles, the height of his dream, or the fear of falling. Why??? Because his path had been made sure. He had learned that he didn’t need wings to fly, only a hope in a God who is real and who would carry him…..

“Bearing Precious Seed….”

Published 8/21/2016

“He that goes forth and weeps, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing..” Psalm 126:6. Visited the Va. Beach Correctional Center and spoke to some of the women inmates. It breaks my heart every time I visit these facilities, and yet I know that there is precious seed that can change their lives. They are so much “more than…” what others think of them and of what they even think of themselves. Oh, for just a “seed” of hope, the knowledge that their lives can change, the inspiration to even know that they do matter. The other week I was at the Lebanon Fair with my family. A woman approached me and called me by name. I turned and recognized the woman, but was trying to place her when she reminded me that we had met in the Lebanon County Correctional Facility. I gave her a big hug and told her that she looked wonderful out of green. She laughed and proudly pointed out her children and shared with me her life. A new season….a new hope… …So truly we shall “doubtless come again with rejoicing”… My heart smiles. Thanks to Corporal D. Harvey and Sergeant A. Holas for their time, effort and support in making this visit possible.

“We Can Make A Difference”

published 8/12/2016

All of us have had seasons in our life that we wish could have been different. Choices that we make can ricochet through our life leading us either forward or knocking us backward. How do we go forward and find direction without a helping hand, an encouraging word, or the knowledge of knowing that we even matter? Yes, there is always an accountability, and rightly so, but as this accountability is borne, thank God for mercy and grace. Can one of us, any of us, have walked so in our lives, that we have never needed or asked for “Mercy” and “Grace”? Will visit and speak at the Va. Correctional Facility in Virginia Beach. My thanks to Sgt. Holas for arranging this. “…. that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Heb. 4:16

“It Makes Me Smile”

published 8/11/2016

There are many things in life that makes me smile—
A hug from any one of my grandsons,
A twinkle in Mike’s eye that is mine alone,
The cat chasing a fly in the window,
The smile from an elderly man sitting alone at the mall,
A lovely melody that makes my heart rest,
The voice of my mamma,
A call from a treasured friend,
A card for no reason,
Pictures of loved ones,
Sweet memories of the past,
Bright hopes for tomorrow,
Birds singing their happy songs,
A cloudless day,
Sunshine beating down on me, warming my body,
Laughter warming my soul,
The sound of children playing,
The promises of God,
The……….
What makes you smile?

WILL YOU READ THIS…..

published 8/6/2016

A few weeks ago, I posted an article-“Can you Read This?” Now I have to ask you—Will you read this? We don’t like to read stories like this, but please read it for the sake of the two little girls. If they can suffer this horrendous act of abuse-the fear, shame, guilt, and blame for 7 years, if they can have the courage to speak up, then surely we can read the article that may make us feel uncomfortable. Please if anyone ever suspects any child of being abused in any matter, call CHILDLINE—1-800-932-0313. YOU DO NOT HAVE TO GIVE YOUR NAME OR PERSONAL INFORMATION. YOU CAN REQUEST TO REMAIN ANONYMOUS. I am posting this information because many people are unaware of the phone number, unaware that they can report any suspicion of child abuse, and that they can report it anonymously. I am asked all the time at events and interviews what to do if you suspect a child of being abused. REPORT IT! The biggest reflection I get from people, is that they are afraid that they may be wrong. I tell them it is always better to err in favor of the child than for the perpetrator. If you are wrong, the person will be vindicated. If you are right, you save a child. If you do not report the suspicion, and you are right, the perpetrator continues for years to victimize and the child is shattered beyond what you can imagine. You may ask, why doesn’t the child speak up? Most don’t, and when they do, read the article and see what happens. We can make a difference! “Evil can only prevail when good men do nothing!” We must become aware, act, intervene, and protect our most treasured gift–our children. My thanks to Carl Reidler for his posting, concern and support. Please feel free to share this information so that others may be aware of how to help. Visit me at https://www.facebook.com/The-Shattering-215752548593960/?fref=ts

“HOPE REIGNS”

published 7/26/2016

Peace in the storm…
Hope in despair…..
Comfort in the night…
Joy in the morning.

Visited the Lebanon County Prison last night. Always enjoy going in with our team and joining with friend and Chaplain Marilyn Nolte.
“How can they call on Him who they do not believe? And how can they believe in Him if they have not heard? And how can they hear unless someone tells them?” Romans 10:14 They want to hear. They want their lives to change. Most just don’t know how, and more often they are trapped in a world that they don’t know how to break the stronghold. That’s where we can make a difference.
“Return you to the stronghold, you prisoners of HOPE.” Zechariah 9:12. He is the Stronghold where we can find rest, where our life can change, where HOPE reigns. Only return, only return….

https://www.facebook.com/The-Shattering-215752548593960/notifications/?section=activity_feed&subsection

Can You Read This?….

published 7/17/2016

Can You Read This?….

Awareness brings Prevention
Caring brings Healing
Doing brings Changes
Changing a life, changes the world….
I recently heard of a man who frequented a public place in a town near to where I live. He mingled with the patrons, store owners and the children. He was well-liked. Behind the mask of normal, he watched and waited for his prey. He was arrested for his deviant behavior when caught. We think that it can’t happen in our neighborhood, our community, our church, our family, our school….but it does. Every 2 minutes in America someone is sexually assaulted. Too depressing, you say. Can you read this? For the sake of those who have lived it. For the unseen child who has not yet spoken up–to learn and to grow in awareness. Only awareness can bring prevention. One child said, “the man had offered them candy. They had grown to know this man as a “friend”. As they gathered to get the candy, the man said, “You have to earn it.” They ran away. One child said, “it was the look on the man’s face when he said it.” Another said, “it just didn’t feel right.” These children were under 10 years old. Remember, it isn’t usually the stranger. 93% of the perpetrators, are known to the child. Only 7% are strangers. One-third of all perpetrators today, are juveniles themselves. Do we live fearfully? No. Mindful and watchful? Yes. Do we see ghosts in the closet? No. Are we aware of what truly can lurk there? Yes. We all want our children to live in a carefree world where danger doesn’t lurk around the dark corners. We want them to be able to jump on their bikes and ride through the countryside, dauntless, in the arms of their innocent childhood. And they can, but only under our watchful eyes and our awareness of what does hide around those dark corners, under the mask of normal. Rise up, oh generation of denial. Can you read this? Pass it on.

https://www.facebook.com/The-Shattering-215752548593960/?fref=ts

Giving Our Children a Hope

published 6/30/2016

“In all that we strive to give our children today, the greatest gift we can give them is the true ‘HOPE’.”

Phenomenal Interview with Jed Doherty on his program “We Choose Respect Parent Cast” Interview starts at # point 13:00.

hwcdn.libsyn.com/…

The song that plays following the interview brought me to tears. It is called “The Lion” and is sung by Kim Krenik. My most grateful thanks to Jed Doherty for his love of children and doing this interview and to Kim Krenik’s song “The Lion”.

Never Give Up!!

published 6/29/2016

“Go to the ant…..; consider her ways, and be wise.” Proverbs 6:6

I was in a deep study the other day. For about thirty minutes I sat on my patio and watched a single ant. His fortitude and strength amazed me and he entranced me with his perseverance. I watched as he drug a parcel which was to be his families’ food. It was at least four times bigger than his body. I couldn’t imagine carrying such a load. It was curved and continually it would get snagged on a rock, a twig, or the edge of a patio stone. He would stop, study the situation, travel forward as if he had given up and then return and tackle his task once again with a new fervor. He was only trying to find direction. I watched as one time he tried to pull his load up over the patio stone. He had already researched the surrounding area and there was no easier way. At least six times in his effort to pull it up over the cliff, he dropped it and had to start all over again. He never gave up and moved it with such vigor and passion that it exhausted me just watching him. I was tempted to reach down and help him a few times but didn’t know if my attempt would spoil his effort.

I kept thinking that surely some other ants would join him and assist him, but none came. I only noticed once during the whole ordeal that he stopped to truly rest. He didn’t search ahead this time, but cuddled tight with his prey. I waited and waited thinking he had given up totally, but shortly he began to proceed once again. He came to another gap in the patio stones and he shifted a twig or two that I thought was once again impeding his efforts, but then he disappeared and so did his prize. I watched and waited but nothing happened. I soon saw sporadically an ant or two continue to the same spot and learned that they all disappeared into the same unseen crevice. He never gave up!

So often we get weary. We feel so all alone. There may be no one who comes to help us carry our burden or load. Maybe no one else will ever see the effort that is behind all that you try to do. Maybe you feel unloved or unappreciated. Maybe the battle seems too long, or the storm too rough, the pain too great, the hurt too deep. Stop, if you must, to rest. Go forward and search for direction before you choose your next path. But never give up! Never give up!

“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:29-31.

Deal to Heal to Feel

published 6/2/2016

“The farther backward you can look the farther forward you will see.” Winston Churchill. We were never meant to go back and pitch a tent and live in our past but we were meant to deal with our past, heal and know the joy of overcoming, and begin to truly feel again. Guest Speaker/Book Signing–June 11, 2016, 10:00-11:30 at Womelsdorf Library, 203 W. High St., Womelsdorf, PA 19567 610-589-1424. All welcome-refreshments. “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven…and a time to heal.”

“More Than..”

published 6/2/2016

We are so very much “More than…” You are so much more than… what you think of yourself. More than… what others think of you. You are the “apple of God’s eye”. You are forever carved in the palm of God’s hand. You are loved and you do matter. You are more than… a conqueror through Christ who loves you. God wants you to know that He is the Power of Love, the Promise of Hope, and the Joy of Overcoming. Will be a guest Speaker–June 12, 2016, 10:15 a.m at St. Daniel’s Lutheran Church, 480 Big Spring Road, Robesonia, PA 19551. 610-693-5145. All welcome. God bless, lead and bring you strength in His healing.

A Message of Hope

published 5/24/2016

“Hope is tangible and breathes life and passion into every human soul that dares to reach out, grab it, and believe.” (mlb)

This picture and quote are actually an excerpt from the new book–”The Shattering—Breaking the Silence”. The message of hope cannot be lost. I went into “Lebanon County Prison” last night with our team and interviewed today with Jed Doherty on his “We Choose Respect Parent Cast” show. As I looked into the eyes of the women last night, it struck my heart wondering who they were as a child. Were they raised in a good home and just sidetracked with the wrong crowd? Did they ever know a home life? Did they suffer from abuse? Did they feel they didn’t matter anymore-to themselves, to others, to anyone? There is always an accountability for what we have done and in serving that accountability it not only renders justice to those who were offended, but it renders a turning point to those who have offended. As we live our lives in the surety, or uncertainty, of purpose, let us not forget–the message of hope. “Return to the stronghold (Jesus), You prisoners of HOPE. (Zechariah 9:12) From whence comes my HOPE, my HOPE is the Lord.

A Matter of Trust~~

published 5/19/16

Will interview on “The We Choose Respect ParentCast” on Tuesday May 24, with Jed Doherty and post link at a later date.

We have feral cats that have adopted us. They are smart. They are quick. They are terrified of people. And yet, they are hungry. Hungry for food. Hungry for affection. Hungry for trust. The other day, the original momma stopped by. She rules still over the grown cats. When she shows up, she alone gets the food. She does not share. When the other cats come near, she hisses at them. If they dare come closer, she whacks them upside the head. The thing that struck me as I watched them intermingle in their relationship, was that they trusted the momma. No matter how many times they approached her in trust, no matter how many times they got whacked upside the head, they returned for more. When, I approached to give them some food of their own, they ran away. They would inch back only so far to me and then would turn and run away again. As I stood there, I found that instead of coming to me and approaching the food that I had given them, they preferred to go to momma. They were convinced that she loved them. They were convinced that sooner or later, she would not hiss at them, control them, or even whack them upside the head. But they were wrong. Momma was never going to change. Because she had no desire to. So why would they go to someone who they knew would hiss and whack them upside the head instead of going to the gentle hand that would feed them, pet them, love and nurture them? It’s a matter of trust. They are like so many people that I know today. Trust—a belief that someone is reliable, good, honest, loving and caring. The abused person, the abused child, all react the same. Why, we ask? Why will an abused child stay silent? Why will a domestic abused adult stay in a relationship? Like the kittens—it is a matter of trust. So how do we reach them? “If we can be brave enough to enter the dark shadows of the unspeakable and pull back the shades, we not only reveal the Light, but we set the captives free.” There is an old song that I love to share with the broken and shattered— “Standing somewhere in the shadows you will find Him. He’s the only one who cares and understands. Standing somewhere in the shadows, you will find Him. And you’ll know Him by the nail scars in His hand. Herein lies true love. It is a matter of trust.

Do You Want to Be Whole?

published 5/8/2016

We can be free from our hurt and pain. The question then becomes do we want to be whole? Hurt and pain shatters our spirit, breaks our heart, and destroys our identity. That is why abuse of any kind is so devastating. Join me today with James Miller in this powerful interview. There is a healing journey that awaits you or those you love. Please join me at any of these links. God Bless~~
BlogTalkRadio: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/…/28-the-purpose-of-forgivenes…

JamesMillerLifeology: http://www.jamesmillerlifeology.com/…/episode-28-purpose-f…/

Facebook: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/…/28-the-purpose-of-forgivenes…

iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/…/james-miller-lifeo…/id1052615988…

“I am Lost….”

published 4/27/16

“I’m Lost….” When is the last time someone said to you that they were lost? Has anyone ever said to you that they were lost? Ironically, I do not mean lost in traffic or in need of a map or GPS. I can honestly say that though I see the broken and hurting often in what I do, I can’t recall anyone ever saying to me that, “they were lost”. I went into our local prison on Monday. I was blessed to be able to go in with our team. We each spoke to the two different groups of women. Some we have seen before, some of the faces were new. At the end, the women were invited to come up front for prayer for anything that was on their hearts. We do not always have the opportunity to do this as we are on a very timed schedule and everything is often done impromptu. As the different ones came up, we took the girls and prayed openly with them for their requests. It is amazing to see God move on hearts. It is never what you expect. One woman who had sat listening throughout particularly touched my heart. You see, as she listened she had seemed a little aloft, hardened per say. That’s what we see. But God sees the heart, and when she prayed, her heart broke and she cried like a child. I always ask the person, what they want to pray about. I wasn’t prepared for the answer of one young woman. She was a quiet person and it seemed to have taken probably all that she had, to have the courage to come up to get prayed for. She looked up at me with a total desperation and brokenness in her eyes, and simply answered–“I’m lost….” “My family is lost.” “We are lost.” There was no need for her to try to explain. It was just time to pray. To take the broken and lost into the arms of a loving Savior, that is real, who cares, and will let her know by His presence, that she does matter. “I once was lost, but now I am found!”

We Are More Than Conquerors

published 4/24/2016

“We are more than conquerors through Christ who loves us”. Romans 8:37. We are more than survivors. We are able in Christ to fight our Goliaths and not only survive, but conquer. Conquer–what an empowering word–to successfully overcome and take control. This is what Christ has made us. We are dragon slayers. Our past does not define us–our future leads us gallantly forward. We are blessed in that we get to go forward in Christ and destroy the very things that tried to destroy us. “Victory Is Not By Accident!” Come join us at this seminar and Workshop at Faith Fellowship Church, 721 East Penn Ave., Cleona, PA on April 30th, 9 a.m thru 2 p.m. Speakers are Marsha Barth (Including Book Signing of “The Shattering”) Theresa Johnson and Toni Stewart. Lunch will be provided. Contact Theresa Johnson at 717-813-9546 for more information. All are welcome.

You Do Matter

published 4/17/2016

Have you ever felt broken, discouraged, hopeless? It is important that you know that you do matter? “A broken heart and a shattered spirit, He will not refuse.” Psalm 51:17. Without a hope, we perish. “Hope is tangible and breathes life and passion into every human soul that will dare to reach out, grab it and believe.” (mlb) I will interview with James Miller/Lifeology on Tuesday April 19 at 1:00 p.m EST. Will post a link for this interview at a later date. God Bless~~

Harden Not Your Hearts….

Published 4/17/16

When we cease to feel pain that is afflicted on us, we cease to feel pain that we inflict on others. We go from ceasing to feel, to losing the capacity to feel; for others, or ourselves. We cease to care. Accountability and mercy do walk hand in hand. “We must deal, to heal, to feel”. This is one of the points that I made to the inmates on Wednesday at Coal Township State Correctional Institute. This week was National Victims’ Rights Week. I was touched by this memento that Judy Letcavage, gave to me, that was made by the inmates. I will treasure it, as for me, it symbolizes and reminds me of all of those faces that I have seen in all the prisons that I have visited. My many thanks to Karen Laird, Director of Victim Services (Office of the Victim Advocate) and Judy Letcavage (ABE Teacher Department of Corrections) for inviting me to come speak, and for their kindness and support. God is more than a “Humpty Dumpty” God who puts the pieces of our lives back together—He instead makes us a brand new creature. “Therefore, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:1

I Was in Prison…

published 4/8/2016

“I was in prison, and you came unto me.” Mathew 25:36. Will be visiting the State Correctional Institute in Coal Township on Wednesday to speak with the inmates. My topic will be “Mercy and Accountability Walk Hand in Hand”. Your prayers and support are always greatly appreciated.

Touching Hearts

published 4/1/2016

One of my precious hearts, my two-year old grandson, likes to disappear and go on his own adventures. It is not unusual for him to be found under a blanket munching on his older brother’s candy or mommy’s chewing gum. When caught, his blue eyes twinkle and he has this absolutely precious grin and the cutest dimple, that melts your heart. But, he will hang his head then, because even at two-years old, he knows that he is guilty, that he has done wrong.

I visited with our team on Monday at the Lebanon County Prison and shared this story. I asked the women what were they hiding under their blanket? Anything that we have to hide to do is wrong.

There is an impression that is made on you when you hear the iron doors of a prison, clang behind you. There is something permanent about it that gives you a perspective of what prison really is. When the women enter for our meeting, often you can see the sorrow and brokenness on their faces. It is an amazing thing to see that lift as God touches their hearts and to see them leave with a fresh hope; a hope that they can change, that their lives can be different, that they can have a future. Touching hearts~~they touch ours every time.

I Am Free

published 3/20/16

I hear a sweet melody. Its quietness resounds softly, drifting up to my ears and into my heart, filling me with a quietness, a peacefulness. Its sweetness calms my soul. I snuggle into it like a warm blanket on a cold day, and let my spirit rest, letting its sweet refrain bathe me with God’s presence.

Oh this refreshing. Where does it come from? “As the deer pants after the water, so pants my soul for thee…”

Peace begins with forgiveness. What is forgiveness? Why forgive? How do we forgive? How can I be forgiven?

To simply answer the above– What is forgiveness? Forgiveness is releasing a debt that is owed to us. Why forgive? We forgive, to be free. How do we forgive? We choose to forgive. How can I be forgiven? We ask to be forgiven.

Forgiveness is probably a touchier subject to talk with people than abuse. People do not know what forgiveness really is. Forgiveness is not okaying what the person has done to you. Forgiveness is not allowing what the person has done to you, and forgiveness does not release the person from the accountability that they must take responsibility for. It just releases you from carrying the horrific burden of trying to get them to make it right and to deal with what they did to you. You release it. It is a purposed choice.

I find it is impossible to forgive as long as we are angry. Anger too, is a choice. “I have a right to be angry!” And you do. But do you want to stay angry? Do you want to continue to carry that load on your back? In your soul? Do you enjoy being angry? Has anger set you free? Anger is a false sense of power and control and very dangerous to hold onto. It ricochets through us like an unleashed bullet tearing us internally asunder. It can also, strangely enough, become a false cloak of comfort because we feel falsely empowered.

The question really is, not so much, do I forgive, as it is, do I want to be free?

I was asked the other day to explain how we can forgive and still hold people to an accountability. The key is, we don’t hold them accountable, God does. But oh, the question then becomes, can I trust God to hold them accountable for all they did? See we do not know the heart of God. We mete His heart with ours, our understanding with His and we get so tired of trying to figure it all out that we just throw our hands up and don’t deal with it. And we stay bound and broken, angry and unforgiving.

As a parent, grandparent, a child goes to do wrong. They go for our favorite vase. We say no. We correct them. Give them a time out. We forgive them. We love them. But now the child is angry. We still love them. Now they get up, go to the vase, pick it up, look us in the eye and slam it to the ground, shattering it. A long pause—Do we hate what the child did, do we forgive the child, do we love the child, do we hold the child accountable? All of the above. Now the child must bear the responsibility of what they did. There goes the piggy bank. They work to earn money. They pay for a new vase. They lose their privileges, they don’t go anywhere, watch TV, play video games, talk on the phone. More than that, they have to learn what the vase really was. More than a possession. A treasure that cannot be replaced. Do we forgive them? Yes. Do we hold them accountable? Yes, Simplified, I know.

I was that shattered vase. God is our father. This God of mercy, is also a God of justice. Mercy and accountability do walk hand in hand.

I will address this more on a personal level in my new book to soon to be published, the sequel to “The Shattering”.

Do you want to be Free? Healing is a journey…….

Why??????

published 3/8/2016

There is a question that I am often asked. Why do child sexual abuse, rape, domestic abuse, child abuse and other horrific crimes continue in such epidemic numbers? “Evil can only prevail, when good men do nothing.” Edmund Burke ( 1729-1797)

I hesitated to write this article but find I must. Many of you know me as the mild speaking one, a few of you know me as the fiery dragon. Sadly, or triumphantly, I believe that I am both. I am an advocate, author, and speaker against child sexual abuse. More than that, I believe in going forth and letting all that are broken and shattered know that they can be made whole and know the joy of overcoming. Because of this platform, I take the leadership of our country and the conditions of our society, very seriously. This is not to be detrimental or promotional of any political status, however, I will never live in the “political correct” as it conflicts with my heartfelt beliefs.

We are at a turning point in America, and this year as many rise and fall in an effort to lead this great nation, it is so important that we look at the heart and integrity of what made this country so great. I am gravely concerned about the integrity of those who want to lead us. I do not want to start a political debate, but I do want to address any of the candidates, whether Democrat or Republican, that concern the issues of child sexual abuse.

People make mistakes, they do change and they do go forward. As they go forward though, the proof of their change is in their integrity that follows them.

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2014/06/hillary-clinton-dogged-by-1975-rape-case/

Yes, Hillary Clinton was young, ambitious and this was a long time ago. It is her heartlessness, that bothers me. She laughs about getting the rapist off on a lighter sentence, even though she believed he was guilty. She was able to get a forensic’s expert to “cast doubt on the evidentiary value of semen and blood samples.” “Her defense strategy consisted of impugning the credibility of the victim, suggesting that the victim needed a psychiatric examination and without referring to any other sources, alleged that the victim sought older men.” Her client was 41 years old—-the victim—was 12 years old. There was semen evidence. Her job to defend, did not entitle her to destroy the life of a child and to set a precedent.

There are others running, also. Those who wrote what a fantasy rape is. http://www.npr.org/sections/itsallpolitics/2015/05/29/410606045/the-bernie-sanders-rape-fantasy-essay-explained

There is nothing funny about rape. There is nothing laughable about the molestation of a child. To answer the above question—Why? Because we cannot live in a state of denial, minimization, justification, manipulation and intimidation. We must cease to excuse, and demand accountability, if we are to ever see things change, if we are to ever make a difference.

We are to not lean to our own understanding, we are to strive for wisdom and in all of our getting things, we are to get understanding. (Proverbs 4:7) (Proverbs 3:5-6) I can’t help wonder who God wants to lead this great country, based on His will and purpose, and not my thinking, needs and wants? So, I will pray and will continue to research, and to get understanding. As we approach this critical turning point in our country, we can make a difference.

https://www.facebook.com/The-Shattering-215752548593960/

What Season of Life are You In?

published 2/21/16

I stood at the window this morning and looked out my back door. There were still piles of snow and only the beginning patches of grass coming through. The little stray cats meandered at the door playing pat-a-cake with me through the glass and then spoofing themselves, they ran away. Another winter is truly passing. More snow may come, but truly the birds, and returning geese, tell us that a new season will be breaking forth soon. The warm breezes will flow over us, bathing us in the fragrance of spring as the flowers push their heads up from a sleepy winter and buds of life turn the brown landscape into an array of color.

Oh the seasons of life, sometimes troubling us with storms and sorrow and at other times plunging us into sunshine and joy. Paul said that we are to be content in whatever state we are in. This is not always easy. What season of life are you in? Maybe, if those who are in sunshine and joy can reach to those who are in storms and sorrow, we can walk together, bearing one another’s burdens, sharing the load, lighting the way and bringing a smile to someone’s heart.

I am finishing the sequel to “The Shattering”, doing some final edits. Have had a lot of requests for this and hope to make progress on getting it published this year. Will be visiting the women at the Lebanon County Prison tomorrow. We are our brother’s/sister’s keepers. Thank all of you for your love, prayers and support. God Bless~~

What is Life Worth?

published 2/8/2016

What is a life worth? Can people change? “The LORD’S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save, neither His ear heavy, that it cannot hear.” Never give up Hope. Never. Statistics are high in showing that many who are incarcerated have suffered from abuse. Does this excuse them or release them from their accountability and responsibility? No. But can we not tell them that they matter? Can we show them a path to healing? Can we lead them to the Hope that is higher than us? Can we let them know that they are loved and that God still has a plan for their lives? I believe this more and more, every time I visit a Correctional Facility. Spoke to the women for two hours. Took them through ‘The Healing Journey ‘. My sincere thanks to all of the staff at the Orlando Community Release Center for their support, and time in setting this up. Thank you for the warm welcome and invitation to come back. Visit me at https://www.facebook.com/The-Shattering-215752548593960/

The Miracle of Hope!

Published January 23, 2016

Will be speaking to the woman at the Orlando Community Release Center on Thursday. My thanks to Mr. Conner, Assistant Warden for having me back. I spoke there last year and am excited to visit again. People often ask me why I go to the prisons. So often when I go in, rightfully so, the inmates seem to wonder, what is this woman, all cleaned up, going to tell us that we haven’t already heard. But then God always shows up. I tell them simply my story; the brokenness, the hopelessness, the fear and shame, guilt and blame. And then I tell them how everything changes when the “HOPE” comes into our lives. Nothing may seem to change and yet everything changes. Once, they taste of hope, the reality that their lives can be different, that they are not defined by what has happened to them, and that there really is a God that loves them and that they do matter to Him; the look in their eyes totally changes. To see this awesome miracle transform before me, makes my heart overflow.

Children are True Heroes

published 1/17/2016

My brother told me a story this past Christmas about me when I was three years old. I did not recall the memory as I was too young, and yet in my spirit I sensed it. I hesitated to post this picture. Why? For the same reason so many of us hide the inner child of our soul. We do not want to reveal the broken, ragged or tattered image of our being. We want to present an image that portrays an identity of what people want to see instead of our true identity. I had locked that little girl up for a long time in the depths of my soul. And yet, though so often, I reflect how very much my three brothers were my heroes growing up, more and more, I realize that this little girl that I had locked away was really my true hero. In the story that my brother told me, I stood up to a situation that I marvel at now, in light that I was only three years old. I credit this only to the fact that it was the little Sunday school that I attended at such a young age, that taught me the love and courage of a Savior, who changed my life forever, and fortified that little girl to stand and fight and to become what I am today. No more, no less.

I will be visiting the Orlando Correctional Facility in Orlando as a guest speaker. I wish that I had a childhood picture of every one of those that I visit; before the world crushed and broke them, before they learned to hide that child for all to see, even themselves. For we see the adult, God sees the child. We see the raggedness, God sees them made whole. We see the evil and mayhem, God sees the redeemed. We see the wretchedness and evil, God sees the purified and saved.

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinth. 5:17.

Is there evil in the world? Yes. Will all be redeemed? No! Do some desire to be evil? Yes. Do some desire to be made whole? Yes! So what do we do? Every person, even those who have done horrid and evil things and aren’t physically incarcerated, must always bear the accountability of what they have done. They must not only take the responsibility for what they have done but bear the responsibility for what they have done. Healing is a journey. We take it one step at a time. We can change. We can heal. We can make a difference!

Show Me the Way

published 1/5/2016

“Our lives should be a beacon, so that even after we are gone, our light still helps others find their way.”

Visited the Lebanon County Prison last night. We go in once a month. We go to shed a ray of hope, a word of truth, a promise of a new day. We never release them of the accountability for what they have done, but teach them to accept the responsibility of their choices. We teach them of a God that is real, who has a better plan for their lives, and that they do matter.

I wish you could have heard the young woman’s revelation of what had happened to her at 14 years of age. How it shattered her whole being. Did she justify herself or excuse her accountability? No. Did she deserve more? Yes. Does she deserve a chance? Yes. Would you give up on them if they were your son, daughter? Would you hold them accountable? Yes.

“Mercy there was great and grace was free. Pardon there was multiplied to me. There my burdened soul found liberty. At Calvary.”

Pictured here with some of our team. Marilyn Nolte (Chaplain-Lebanon County Prison), Marty(Marsha) Barth(Author, Advocate,Speaker), Theresa Johnson (Leader of Prison Team, Faith Fellowship Church)

Spread Your Wings~~And Fly

Published 1/3/2016

Wings trimmed in gold, surrounding his royal coat of black velvet, he stood in majesty, sovereignty, unabashed at what others might think. He knew the mockery of his beginning, a slimy larvae on his own, destined to wrap himself in a mesh of debris, and wait for he does not know what. How he had wondered what would become of his life, as he waited restlessly in his prison, not knowing what he would become. He could not move. All was dark and hopeless. Why could he not be nurtured in a nest and kept warm by a parent’s feathers, or cuddle close to parents with soft fur? But alas, it was not to be so. Little did he know that through his transformation and resurrection he would become all that God meant for him to be. And so now he stood perched; sure of his destiny, purpose and the life before him. With great fury he fanned his wings and was gone before I could catch him on his triumphant take off as he soared upwards and disappeared.

The amazing thing is that he was out of his season. Like the lone blooming rose in my garden. It was January 1st and I have butterflies and roses. What does this all seem to say?

The circumstances of your life do not define who you are and when you will bloom. God has a plan and a purpose for your life. Whatever season of your life you are in or are going into, lift your head high, stand royal, know who you are and spread your wings. You are God’s chosen, “a peculiar people” “a royal priesthood”. But how you may ask, as the larvae of the butterfly once wondered, “How do I become what I was created to be?” As the caterpillar yields to his creator, surrendering all that he thinks, proposes, determines and desires, something beautiful happens during this harsh period of true surrender. He does not die, but emerges in God’s time to become all that he was created to be. He does not force himself to come out too soon, but he yields and waits. It is during this time, that God transforms him, makes him a new creature, and resurrects him from his past, bringing him into a new season. A season that others may chide is wrong for him, a beauty that others may not have been able to see in him as the slimy larvae, or the dead like pupae. But oh, left in the “Master’s” hands, there is no denying the beauty of his royal diadem as he goes forward.

This is a new year. A new beginning. It is not by our might or power. Tired of trying? Why not try Jesus? Not a religion. But a relationship with the God, who as Jeremiah says, “before you were in the womb, I knew you.”

A mentor song that touched my heart many years ago says, “Something beautiful, something good. All of my confusions, He understood. All I had to offer Him was brokenness and strife. But He made something beautiful out of my life.” (Bill Gaither)

“Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinth. 5:17.

Come out of your cocoon my friend. It is a new season. It is a new year. A new beginning. God has so much in store for you. Be blessed my friend.
visit my blog page at https://marshabarth.com

Children are God’s Greatest Gifts

Children are God’s Greatest Gifts

published 12/23/2015

I was sitting with family the other day at the food court in the mall enjoying the festivity of the season when we noticed that a mother sit her little boy at the table beside us with his pizza. The table was only about three feet away and the little boy was approximately five years old. We were more than a little surprised when she walked about 30 or more feet away to go get food for herself. The little boy sit there enjoying his pizza as he looked around at all the hustle and bustle of everyone around him. The mother was gone for over fifteen minutes. She never came back to the table once to check on him.

Could she see him from where she was at? If at all, not much, and she surely couldn’t see him when she turned to place her order, pay, and gather her food up. When she came back to the table, she hurriedly sat down and said to the little boy, “Sorry, boopy, it took so long.”

We had determined to sit there and watch the little boy until she came back. The stairwell and elevator were only about ten feet from his table. We couldn’t imagine that on one of the busiest shopping days of the year and hundreds of people filling the food court, that this little boy had been left alone. We commented of how easy it would be for any person to slip in, promise the little boy a toy, tell him his mommy said he could go, and that he’d bring him back when she got her food. The little boy would have went, no questions asked.

Once, I felt my unbelief of this situation settle down, I felt my anger and frustration rise. The longer she hadn’t come back, the more my anger had risen. When she sat down and made the casual statement to her son, I could take no more. I had promised God a long time ago that I would never look the other way or be silent again, for myself and definitely for others.

Fortunately, my family knows me and have long outgrown being embarrassed by me. To be honest, I said a quick prayer to calm my anger before I spoke and then turned slowly in my chair to face the mom. She had been oblivious to us sitting right next to her. She had been oblivious to a lot of things that day. I kindly said to her, “Excuse me.” She turned to face me. I simply said, “Please don’t ever do that again.”

She looked at me surprised. Not totally sure of what I was asking but I could see that it was sinking in as I paused for her to understand. I braced myself for her to explode and possibly say, “Mind your own business.” Or to say, “What are you talking about.” And even possibly, “I don’t think this is any concern of yours and I don’t need you to tell me how to parent.” But she did not reply. She actually, hung her head and had a hard time looking me in the eyes. I said softly, “Please don’t ever leave him alone like that again.”

With her head still hung down and barely looking at me, she said, “I won’t.”

The strange thing is, there is no doubt that this mom loved her child, but she was totally unaware of the reality of the danger that she had placed him in. Would she had left a $100 bill on the table and walked away and kept an eye on it? Would she had left a $50, $10 or even a $1 bill on the table and walked away? Probably not. And yet??????

It is often implied or said to me, “Marty you just always see ‘ghosts in the closet’”. Wherein, I usually reply back, “But you haven’t been in my closet.”

I have been advocating with some members of the community to our local school board for the change of a bus stop. There are two issues. One is that there is not enough site clearance to allow enough time for an approaching vehicle to adequately stop in time. The other issue is that there is a “violent” sexual predator in close proximity of the bus stop. Both merit the change of this bus stop. But if there was just this one issue of the “violent” sexual offender being too close to this stop, this reason in itself would be sufficient to change the bus stop. But, again, the perspective of the school board has been about the same as the woman with the little boy, they refuse to see the reality of the danger that is right before their eyes.

Some say, “Marty, the man has served his time, you shouldn’t persecute him.” There is no persecution or discrimination here, only accountability. I have gone into the prisons for over 10 years and care very much for the inmates that I speak to. But I have never excused the accountability that they must bear for their actions, especially when this affects the safety of our children.

I know of no other law in place, where state police will go door to door and make every resident in a neighborhood aware of the presence of a sexual predator. Persecution, no. Accountability, yes. The statistics are very clear on the rescind rate of pedophiles and predators. If we are to ever err, it must be on the side for the safety of our children.

Children are the greatest gifts of God. We must shelter them, love them, advocate and stand in the gap for them. “Suffer the little children to come unto me.” They are our greatest treasure!

Seasons of Life

published 11/28/2015

Seasons of life—each bringing us new revelation, healing and purpose. Time is actually our friend, not our enemy. What season of life are you in right now?

Do you long for the winter? The ambiance of the freshly fallen snow, with Christmas carols playing in the background, the fireplace radiating its warmth to our very souls.

Do you long for spring? The breaking forth of life itself, flowers pushing up, birds singing and echoing in a new song of hope.

Do you long for summer? The warmth of the sun beating down upon us, the air filled with a mixed fragrance of every bloom imaginable, the comfort of never wanting to feel cold again.

Do you long for the fall? Oh, the splendor of colors, bursting forth as nature’s fireworks in one final spectacular display of beauty. The smell of harvest as the wind brushes past us soothing our very soul.

So, what season of life are you in? What season would you like to be in?

“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven………Eccl. 3:1-8

We Are New Creatures

Book Signing at Barnes and Noble in Maui, HI

published 10/25/15

Sometimes we think that we are too broken or shattered to ever be of any value, to ourselves or others. We think that surely even if we could go forth that everyone would see all of our cracks and brokenness. There is nothing shattered that God cannot make whole. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 But when the one who created us, takes our shattered being and touches us with His love, He makes us a new creature in Him. Healing is a journey. For more help and information, please read the following blogs and listen to the interviews. God Bless you on this healing journey!

All the Kings Horses…..

published 9/23/15

“All the king’s horses and all the king’s men, couldn’t put Humpty Dumpty back together again.” This is how the old nursery rhyme goes and it is true. No matter how broken or shattered we are, when we try to put the pieces of our life back together again, we still seem to see all the brokenness, the cracked pieces, and wonder if we can ever be whole. But that is because we are not the healer; God is. 2 Corinthians 5:17–“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” I spoke to a woman on Sunday who wanted desperately to know how she could be made whole. Such hunger. I had met her in prison. She had been out for four days. I told her that Jesus only wanted one thing from her—One thing from me. That He only asks us for one thing. I told her that I ask Him for hundreds of things every day. But that all of my life, He has only ever asked me for one thing–To give Him my heart. To surrender my life to Him. I told her that it is not a hard thing to do. And then we prayed. Such a beautiful thing—to watch God make a new creature. No Humpty Dumpties. No cracked and shattered beings, glued back together, but a new creature. Old things are passed away, behold all things are become new.

Will have a book signing at Barnes and Noble 325 Keawe St, Lahaina, HI 96761 Phone:(808) 662-1300 on Saturday October 3, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A warm welcome to any of my in friends in Maui during that time to join me. “The Shattering” is my true story of overcoming childhood sexual abuse. Written in novel form, it is an inspirational story of the joy of overcoming. It is a story of the power of love, the promise of hope and the inspiration of knowing that what has happened to any of us does not define who we are. Be blessed.

“Keep Fighting the Good Fight!”

published September 18, 2015

Song preceding interview–“Keep Fighting the Good Fight.” “…. I’m never going to leave you, always going to see you through. Keep fighting the good fight.” Live Interview with Bill Link from WXGN at 90.5 out of Ocean City, New Jersey. Contact me at It is estimated that there are over 60,000,000 survivors of child sexual abuse. This is based on a 40% report rate. It is also estimated that less than 10% of childhood sexual abuse is ever reported. The message—We can heal! We do not need to continue to carry the hurt and pain of our past. 2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” Listen to this live interview at ~~

https://www.facebook.com/The-Shattering-215752548593960/timeline/

Reaching Hearts~~Signing Books

published September 13, 2015

I thank God every time I have an event, speaking engagement, or book signing; but it really is not about signing books. It is about reaching the hearts of those that have been shattered along the way; by life, by people, by the one who has desired to sift them as wheat. How appropriate that Jesus answered this with His words- “But I have prayed for you.” The enemy of our souls comes to steal, kill and destroy. But again, our Lord states–“But I have come to give you life and more abundantly.” I encourage everyone who reads my blogs–God has a plan for your life. He loves you. You do matter to Him. And God is more than a Humpty Dumpty God who puts us back together again. He makes us a new creation in Him. Today, if we harden not our hearts–He is waiting to come into your heart, take your pain away, and to heal you from your brokenness. Choose this day, answer that knock at your heart’s door. Let the tears come down. It is His love and presence that you feel. Today—Choose Jesus! Please read on~~

Accountability and Mercy, Can Walk Hand in Hand!

published August 22, 2015

Spoke with four different groups at the Va. Correctional Facility in Virginia Beach; from Substance Abuse to Re-entry on Monday August 17 and Tuesday August 18. Each visit and each group are always different, but one thing always remains constant–How beautiful it is to see God transform a life with His presence and to see even the slightest spark of hope come into their eyes and hearts. This does not mean that they are ever to be excused for what they have done. There is always an accountability for sin and for crime. Do the crime, and regardless, you do the time. But we do need to know and remember that Jesus came to save the lost’s soul, not condemn them. God’s mercy is given not to justify us in our sins but to deliver us from our sins. He that is without sin is always welcome to throw the first stone. I like the old song–“Mercy there was great and grace was free. Pardon there was multiplied to me. There my burdened soul found liberty. At Calvary!” My sincere thanks to Sgt. Holas and Lt. Jameson for taking the time to make this venue possible. Thanks again also Sgt. Holas for the cookies from the cafeteria. Who would’ve thought that the best cookies I ever ate would be from a correctional institute. smile emoticon Please continue to keep me in your prayers as I go forward as God leads.

We Must Deal, to Heal, to Feel

Published August 14, 2015

We must deal, to heal, to feel. We all want to heal. We all want restoration. But none of us usually like the process. Healing is a journey. “Am I God to bring you out of your past and not God enough to heal you from it?” Join me today at this link http://www.talkzone.com/episodes/199/DBI081215.html This is probably one of the most poignant and powerful interviews that God has ever had me do.The interviewer asked me a lot of questions that I’ve never been asked directly in an interview. Please feel free to share this link with others. Blessings~~ Marty Please feel free to contact me for help, information, input, or to arrange speaking engagements.

Making a Difference

Published August 2, 2015

Was happy to be a guest speaker at PCAR’s “Vision of Hope” Gala and Auction. Nearly $176,000 was raised to help the prevention of child sexual abuse, and to support and celebrate the hope and healing that is offered to survivors through victim service agencies.

Do You Want to Heal?

Published August 2, 2015

“I will never forget you for I have carved you in the palm of my hand.” Isaiah 49:15-16. Do you want to heal? Every time you cry, God cries with you. Every time you cry, your angels cry with you. “Harden not your heart in the day of provocation.” Hebrews 3:8 Join me in this live interview with Rebecca L. Mahan from V.O.T.E (Victims Overcoming Traumatic Trauma) at this https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Shattering/215752548593960 You can heal. Start the healing journey today. Read on for more help or contact me on this site.

How Do You Heal a Broken Heart?

Published July 8, 2015

“The LORD is near unto them that are of a broken heart; and saves such as be of a crushed spirit.”Psalm 34:18 Interviewed with Rebecca L. Mahan from V.O.T.E. (Victims Overcoming Traumatic Events) Will post link at a later date. How do we overcome? How do we heal from a broken heart? Continue to read the blogs below. Listen to the interviews. Know that you can heal, that joy does come in the morning and that You do matter!

A Message of Hope

Published June 29, 2015

Hope shines through the dark clouds of our life. No matter how dark the night, or how hopeless our day, the rays of hope shine through. So often when I fly, I am always amazed at how dark and dismal and pouring down rain it may be when I step onto the plane, only to find minutes later that I am high above those same clouds and there is no rain and the sun shines so bright that I have to squint my eyes. How can this be?? We have to rise above the clouds that shadow our lives. But how do we do this we may ask? One must find a means to fly above them, soar to heights where the sun shines. Many years ago, as a little girl, I dreamed of such a place. A place where I could go like Dorothy on the Wizard of Oz, somewhere over a rainbow. And then one day, in a small country church, in a basement Sunday School, I heard a teacher tell me of a God who loved me. ‘How could that be?’, I thought. I can understand how God could love Debbie with her pretty bows and patent leather shiny shoes. I could understand how He could love Vicki, with her kind blue eyes and friendly smile. But how could God love me? He knew my dark secrets. He knew my fears and shame, my guilt and pain. He saw my tangled curls, my dusty shoes, my angry heart. How could this God possibly love me. But He did. And this day, I believed the teacher when she told me this and I reached out to take the hand of this One who I was told loved even me. It is instantly that we soar past the clouds of our life when we come into His presence. He lifts us up on eagle’s wings far above the clouds of life. “….they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31

“A Message of Hope” Just posted:
http://createmoregood.co/…/moving-beyond-darkness-towards-…/
Join me in this great Interview with David Yarde; thorough and complete-We can heal! Going from Victim to Victor!
Buy the book “The Shattering” at https://marshabarth.com

Sharing the Good News

Published June 25, 2015

Words are powerful, love is healing. Everyday is an opportunity to meet new people, share a new hope, and touch lives. Oh, that we can grab the moment and never miss an opportunity to show God’s love. My thanks to Barnes and Noble of Myrtle Beach for welcoming me to their store. “The Shattering” is a story of the power of love, the promise of hope and the inspiration of knowing that what has happened to us does not define who we are. If you are lonely, broken and discouraged please continue to read my blogs, listen to the interviews and contact me if you have a question. Jeremiah 29:11

Do You Want to Laugh Again?

Published May 27, 2015

Have you ever just wanted to laugh? Have you ever had days, weeks, or years that you can’t remember when you’ve had a really good laugh? You know what I mean. One of those, down deep, fall to the ground, laughing times when you can hardly catch your breath. Don’t you sometimes just miss laughing? Proverbs 17:22 – “A merry heart does good like a medicine: but a broken spirit dries the bones.”

The other day, my husband called me outside to smell this beautiful flower.

This plant is commonly referred to as “The Devil’s Tongue”. How could I have been fooled?

Can you even begin to imagine how anything this beautiful would smell? So I bent down to smell it. He said, “No, smell down deep into the flower.” So, I did. I inhaled and took in a very deep breath expecting my whole being to be exhilarated with the sweetest of aromas. I nearly gagged on the putrid smell. It smelled like something had died. My husband and brother stood beside me, roaring in laughter. I thought they’d fall to the ground laughing. As soon as I could breathe again, I began to laugh just as hard.

Laughter changes us; physically, emotionally and spiritually. Often, in our journey of living, life can beat us down; the death of a loved one, loss of a job, sickness, financial, a family break-up, abuse. Life is often full of sadness, heartache, and pain. But we can rise again. We need to have a hope. 1 Corinthians 15:19-“If in this life only we have hope….we are of all men most miserable.” Proverbs 13:12–“Hope deferred makes the heart sick: but when the desire comes, it is a tree of life.”

Hope again, my friend. I do not make light of your pain. Take it to the One who loves you best. 1 Peter 5:7–“Casting all your care upon Him; for He cares for you.” You can heal. Life does get better. You do matter! Laugh again, my friend.

Please read on down for more blogs that might help you. Be blessed my friend.

“Children are our Heritage”

Published April 24, 2015

Met and talked with the Governor of Pa-Tom Wolf at an event sponsored by Office of the Victim Advocate(OVA). Was able to pass on a copy of “The Shattering” to him. My sincere thanks for his receptiveness and for sincerely listening.

If we are to make a difference, we must never hang our head in shame. Children are our inheritance, given to us by God. We are to speak up for them, support, love, and protect them. As God opens the doors for us to step up, He will fortify us to go forward. We must bring an unawareness to the epidemic of child sexual abuse, speak out for the prevention of this abuse against our children and proclaim the message to the broken and shattered that what has happened to us does not define who we are. We can rise again! We can HEAL! For more help, please read the earlier blogs and feel free to contact me through this website.

“But who shall offend one of these little ones…. it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea..Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.” Mathew 18:6,10. “Children are our heritage…” Psalms 127:3

“Where Shall I Cause My Shame to Go?”

Published April 19, 2015

http://youtu.be/lZNM3bj1iRM

We must know that we are not alone. It is estimated that there are over 60,000,000 survivors of childhood sexual abuse. We were never meant to carry the pain and sorrow from this abuse. We can heal. “O LORD my God, I cried to You for help, and You healed me.” Psalm 30:2. Tamar was the daughter of David and was raped by her brother Amnon. 2 Samuel 13:1-14. She cries out and says, “Where shall I cause my shame to go?”

This is the cry of so many of us that have been sexually abused. Where do we cause our shame to go? What do we do with the fear and shame and guilt and blame? Where do we cause these to go? “O LORD my God, I cried to You for help, and You healed me.” Healing is a journey.

When we are abused in any way, it shatters us. It shatters our hope and dreams, our love and trust. We try to pick up the pieces and put them back together again but we can not find all of the pieces and the pieces that we do find and try to put back together, riddle us with scars. So how do we go forward? How can we heal?

God is more than a Humpty Dumpty God. He is more than a religious figure that watches from afar. He is an ever present presence that cares what has happened to us. He is the solution to our pain and hurt, not the cause. If we call out to Him, He is faithful and just and will hear our cry, and will reach down and make us a new creature in Him. When God heals us, He finds all of the pieces and puts them back together again. We are not left with all the nasty scars for the world to see. He gives us our identity. The identity that He had purposed for us. Jeremiah 1:5–Before we were in the womb He knew us.

Let me point out here, that it is not God’s fault nor His choices that caused our pain, but the perpetrator, the abuser. We can actually give God our pain, sorrow, brokenness, fear, shame, guilt and blame and He will lift these from our heart. It is a journey, but in the process of time, we heal. Please visit and read my other blogs where more of this journey is explained. And please contact me if I can be of any help through the contact page on this site. May you feel His gentle tug on your heart right now. May you feel His presence hold you in His arms. Let His love wipe away your tears. Enter into a new season of your life, a new beginning, a new hope. He waits for you there.

Live interview on Good Day Pa ABC 27 with Amy Kehm

https://www.facebook.com/215752548593960/videos/440128502823029/UzpfSTIxNTc1MjU0ODU5Mzk2MDpWSzo0NDAxMjg1MDI4MjMwMjk/

http://youtu.be/lZNM3bj1iRM

or

abc27.com/2015/04/17/author-spotlight-marsha–barth/

You Are Not Alone….

Published 3/31/2015

Marsha Barth, author of “The Shattering” is a guest speaker at the Vision of Hope Gala. “We can make a difference.” — in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Marsha Barth explains the devastating effects of childhood sexual abuse and what it does to a child. — in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Marsha Barth shares her own story–offering the promise of hope, the power of love, and the inspiration of knowing that what has happened to you does not define who you are. — in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Representative Mauree Gingrich and Marsha Barth at the Vision of Hope Gala. Mauree Gingrich represents Lebanon County’s 101st Legislative District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives. She has focused significant attention on protecting the interests of Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable citizens – children, the elderly, disabled, and victims of domestic abuse –— in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Delilah Rumburg, Chief Executive Officer of PCAR and Marsha Barth at the 9th Annual Vision of Hope Gala. Vision of Hope is a campaign aimed at protecting our children from the devastation of sexual abuse. — inHershey, Pennsylvania.

Marsha Barth and former PA First Lady Michele M. Ridge at the 9th Annual Vision of Hope Gala and Fund Raiser for the prevention of childhood sexual abuse. — in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

Do You Want to be Free????

Published 3/19/2015

Are you in a prison? In your mind? In your heart? In your past? We can be free. God never meant for us to carry and be imprisoned by our pain and sorrow. I visited the Western Maryland Correctional Facility. Whether the prison is physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual, Christ died to set us free. He is a God that delivers, heals and brings us into full restoration. “He that the Son has set free, is free indeed..” John 8:36

I never speak at a prison that my heart is not moved. I never excuse, justify, or minimize why they are there. I do believe that even in our darkest prisons, God wants to be there. Isaiah 61:1-3 “…to set the captives free, the opening of prison doors….” “…to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garments of praise for the spirit of heaviness… That God might be known and glorified as a real God. A Father who truly cares, and brings hope on the wings of love….

What Do You Do with Your Hurt?

Published February 18, 2015

What do you do with your hurt? So often in our lives we bury our hurt. We put it under the rug where we think it is gone. Then something as simple as a song, a smell, a thought; triggers all the old memories, and the hurts that we thought were long gone resurface causing an avalanche of problems. We must deal with the issues of our past if we are to heal. Join me on this healing journey in my interview on Suzanne Strisower’s show, “Living Life on Purpose” on Blog Talk Radio at this link

goo.gl/BM9so9

Wait for show to load. Click bar that is between Blog Talk Radio and Living Life on Purpose. Click at 47:00. Interview begins here. God Bless~~

Hope Renews the Heart

Published February 13, 2015 | By adminmbarth | Edit

Had a phenomenal meeting with the women at the Orlando Correctional Release Center. People often ask me why I visit. When you see hope replace despair and see the chains of brokenness drop off of a heart, there is no greater joy. Something happens to a heart when they realize that there really is a God, that He truly loves and cares for them and that they really do matter. We must never underestimate the power of hope. It only takes a flicker to renew a heart. Please be encouraged. If you need hope; know that you are not alone, that you can heal, and that you do matter. Please read the earlier blogs on this page and follow the links to the interviews. There is a lot of detailed information in these interviews that may be helpful to you. May you be richly blessed and know that healing is a journey.

Who am I???

Published January 21, 2015 | By adminmbarth | Edit

Please join me in this interview….

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/toughtalkradionetwork/2015/01/20/life-changing-insigths–shattering-lifestyles-choices-1

At the site on this interview, wait until it loads and then move the cursor (hand) to 32:15. This is where the interview will begin.

I was surprised one time when a person asked me, “Why is this abuse so devastating to people?” The woman was sincere though her friend gave her a look as if she wanted to kick her for asking. I told her that it is because when this happens, the person and their identity is shattered and their soul is raped. So often this lost soul cannot find their way, nor do they know that they can heal. As you listen to this interview, may it be the start of a new beginning for you as you enter into a new season, a season of healing. Do not give up and know that you are important to God and that you do matter. May you know the power of His love, the promise of His hope, and the fact that was has happened to you in your life does not define who you are.

Please know that God wants you to know the joy of overcoming and that you can heal. Contact me and feel free to share your comments.

God Bless~~ Marsha (Marty) Barth

“You Do Matter!”

Published January 9, 2015 | By adminmbarth | Edit

Always know that you matter. You are a gift to this world. You are not an accident. Come join in this healing journey. May God richly bless you as you take His hand. We were never meant to walk this journey alone. Please contact me if you have any questions.

“You Do Matter!” Interview with Alfredo Love

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/fredalove/2014/12/20/marsha-barth-the-author-and-speaker-of-prison-ministry-that-you-always

From Victim to Victor

Published December 8, 2014 | By adminmbarth | Edit

We do not need to remain the victim but can become the Victor! You may ask the question. ”How?” Healing is a journey. It begins with knowing that “YOU” matter. Listen to this live interview:

http://youtu.be/kZZVs38FPDA

You Can Make a Difference

Published November 27, 2014 | By adminmbarth | Edit

Met some wonderful people at Saturday’s Book Signing at the Midtown Scholar Bookstore. One even voiced to me concern of an abuse situation that she was aware of. After talking, she said that she would get more involved with the situation and try to help the abused.

We live in a world where whether we like it or not statistics show that abuse is bound to touch our lives in some way. Whether, it is on the evening news, or a coworker, a family member, a friend, abuse will enter our lives in some shape or form. What do we do when we are unexpectedly confronted with this subject. Do we look the other way? Do we say to ourselves, “It is none of my business?” ”Wonder if I’m wrong?” The bigger question to ask ourselves is “Wonder if I’m right?” “What will happen if I do nothing?” ”Can I really make a difference?” The answer is “Yes you can make a difference!”

I often think back at my life and wonder what would have happened, if just one person who even suspected that I was abused would have come forward. Things were different back then. Things were shoved under the rug more and the subject of abuse of any kind was not a topic to be discussed. But we live in different times, where there are means to help the abused and more than ever we need to come forward and make a difference.

We are our “brothers” and “sisters” keepers. We can heal! Let us join together, hand in hand, and go forward. We can make a difference!

Are you in a prison?

Published October 30, 2014 | By adminmbarth | Edit

“I was in prison, and you came unto me.” Mathew 25:36

There are so many kinds of prison. Which makes me ask the questions, “Are you trapped in a prison? Which prison are you trapped in? Are you in a physical prison, emotional prison, or a spiritual prison?” God never intended for us to be trapped in the prisons of hopelessness, despair, sorrow, loneliness, poverty, brokenness, sickness, abuse, condemnation, persecution, sin and bondage.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”Jeremiah 29:11

I visit the prisons once a month. People often ask me why?

Often when the girls come into the room ushered by the armed guards, they typically are the same, no matter what prison I visit. Usually, they present with a tough veneer and they read you. You can see their reaction and wonder as to, “Why is she here?” Their expressions seem to ask, “What could this person standing before me, all cleaned up, possibly know about my pain and suffering and what I have experienced in my life? And then I share with them my story, “The Shattering”. I tell them that they can heal and that God has a purpose for their lives. I tell them how my life changed. And then I see it unfold before me, every time. The veneer begins to crack, tears begin to come to their eyes, and try as they may, they cannot stop them. And then the miracle happens. God touches their hearts. This God of religion becomes a God of reality and relationship and something happens. You see in their eyes that a flicker of hope is born. It sparkles like a precious diamond and they grab hold of it and a new life begins.

And so it is with all of us, regardless of our prison, we can be free!

“Turn you to the stronghold, you Prisoners of Hope: even today do I declare that I will render double unto you.” Zechariah 9:12.

Marsha Barth and Carol Haupa (Chaplain) at the Maui Correctional Center in Maui, HI.

Your Victory Lies Between Your Agony of Defeat and Your Joy of Overcoming

Published September 19, 2014 | By adminmbarth | Edit

Now is the time to start your healing journey. The only thing more painful than an injury to the soul is to leave it unattended to get infected. So often we throw a band-aid on our hurt when it needs stitches, disinfected, love and care. At other times we pick and pick at the hurt, right when it is about to heal. Is it painful to heal? Yes. Is the journey worth it? Always. God wants us to be free of the pain that we carry. He is more than a God who puts Humpty Dumpty back together again. He is a God who makes us a new creature in Him. Oh the joy, love and peace He desires to give us and to take away all of our hurt, pain, and anguish. Can you heal from your past?? Yes. Healing is a journey. Start your journey today. Please feel free to contact me at any time. Never give up. God is never far from your heart and He wants to help you today. Be Blessed~~

Abuse Affects All of Us

Published August 26, 2014 | By adminmbarth | Edit

Abuse will affect everyone of us at sometime in our life; either us personally or those we love and work with. It may be a co-worker, a family member, a neighbor, someone at church, or us personally. How do we heal? We must deal to heal to feel again. Please know that we can heal. God is the solution to our problems and not the cause. Your responses are greatly appreciated. Contact me.

Live interview with Tracey Schavone @ KKCR in Princeville, Kauai, HI

http://youtu.be/k1–GPu1nqA

Interview with Dr. Ravi

Published August 23, 2014 | By adminmbarth | Edit

Sometimes we have to understand the abuse we have suffered from to be able to deal with this abuse. Please visit this link to see and hear my skype interview with Dr. Ravi.

http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/50347684

We have to deal with our past, to heal from our past, to begin to truly feel again.

Please know that what has happened to you does not define who you are and please know that you can heal.

My love and prayers~~

“Marty”

You Can Heal

Published June 19, 2014 | By adminmbarth | Edit

Do you want to be free?
Free from hurt, pain, anger, frustration and disappointment?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJVi84cCHA8

You can heal! Take the first step on this healing journey.
“The Shattering” is a book of inspiration and the joy of overcoming.

Interview with Marsha Barth on the Michael Dresser Show

The Healing Journey Continues

Published June 2, 2014 | By adminmbarth | Edit

So often the question becomes how much do we want to heal? Healing is a painful process but it is the only way to become whole. The thing to remember is that we don’t have to take this journey alone. Like so many things in life that leave us empty, sad and broken and feeling alone, healing,though painful,leads us forward to restoration, joy, hope and overcoming. God Bless you with the strength to take that first step-”dealing”. We have to deal, to heal, to be able to feel again. May you know that there is a God who truly cares, and that He is the solution to our pain and sorrow and not the cause.

Please join me at this link-Marsha Barth interview with Stuart Vener.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SzT_sKWgWks

“Journey of Hope”

Published May 16, 2014 | By adminmbarth | Edit

Visit this link to hear the interview of Marsha Barth on Rodney Mathers Show–”Journey of Hope.”

http://youtu.be/ZX_PTFVt_ns

Welcome to “The Healing Journey”. It all begins by taking the first step. We have to deal to heal to feel. The question becomes, do you want to be whole? Is healing painful? Yes, all healing is painful. But what a great joy to be free from the pain and sorrow, of the issues that hold us captive; to be free from the fear and shame, guilt and blame. We were not meant to walk this journey alone. We are our brother and sisters’ keeper. And the One who loves us most, knows us the best. The first step is reaching out and taking His hand. Contact me with your questions.

If Her Tears Were Stars

Published April 30, 2014 | By adminmbarth | Edit

I want to give tribute and honor to the wonderful writer, Colleen Laylon who has written the words and music to this beautiful healing song. Also to the wonderful artist, Vickie Raye who sings this song. If Her Tears Were Stars If you have been abused or if you have never been abused, this song will move you to a better understanding of childhood sexual abuse.

The statistics of childhood sexual abuse are staggering and grossly unreported. I wanted to list them below. For the “shattered” souls let it comfort your heart and the child within you. For those affected by sexual abuse and trying to understand it better, let it move your heart. We can make a difference.

Abuse Statistics

Statistics show:

—Every 2 minutes in America-someone is sexually assaulted.

237,868 cases a year of child sexual abuse are reported in children 12 and over. It is estimated at 90,000 cases for children under 12.

It is hard to get statistics for children under 12 years old.

—Child molestation like rape is one of the most unreported of crimes. Less than 10% are ever reported. So the 90,000 is more like 900,000 children a year that are sexually abused based on the 10% that is reported and the 90% that is not reported.

—1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys are sexually abused before age 18.

—3 out of 4 children are abused by someone they know well.

–93% of victims knew their attacker.So the stranger talk helps protect our children from 7% of child molesters.

—1/3 of the offenders are themselves Juveniles

—30% of child sexual assault were between 4 and 7 years old

—29% of forcible rapes occurred when the victim was under 11 years old

—44% of sex. Assault and rape victims are under the age of 18

—80% are under 30

—50% of all victims of forcible sodomy, sex assault with an object and forcible fondling of children are under the age of 12 years old.

—117 victims, the number a child molester will have assaulted before being caught

–60% of sexual assaults are not reported to police

–97% of rapists will never spend a day in jail. Only 3% ever go to jail.

Under the Rug

Published April 1, 2014 | By adminmbarth | Edit

When I was a young girl and we cleaned the house, I always hated shaking the rugs. It seemed okay to sweep around them. It was even easier, if no one was looking, to sweep it under the rug. The only problem with this is that after awhile the dirt piles up and the rug becomes very lumpy. It is really hard to walk across the rug and continue on your destination when you constantly stumble over the carpet. Isn’t it really easier to just shake the rug?

This is what we do in our life. Through the many hardships, hurts, pain, abuse, sorrow and loss; we just shove it under the rug of life and pretend that it is no longer there. “I don’t want to talk about it,” we tell our friends and loved ones. “That was a long time ago.” “That’s in the past.” “It doesn’t bother me anymore.” We shove it so far under the rug so that not only others will not see it, but that we will not see it either. If we are Christians, we do even a better job of it. We say it is “under the blood.” But in reality we have shoved it under the rug. We put it under the rug of justification and denial. As we walk through this life, we then wonder why are we continually stumbling. Stumbling in our relationships, our problems, our emotional distress, anger, control, sorrow, depression. We pretend that everything is clean, neat and in order.

And then one day, if we let Him, God shakes our carpet. The dust flies everywhere. It blinds us with a cloud and we try to close our eyes. It is too much for us to see. It takes our breath away. We want to run away but we can’t. We cry out to God and say “Why God?” “What is going on?” “I gave all of that to you.” “I thought, I was past all of that.” And God says, “Am I God only enough to bring you out of your past and not God enough to heal you from it?” Is He God only of our present and future? Can He not take the pain of our past away? Why not? Do we accept that we are destined to live in pain and sorrow? Do we accept the cloak of shame? No! No! A thousand times No!

God has so much more for us. He wants us to take His hand. Hold on to it tight. He will not only lead us into our destiny and purpose. He will not only keep and protect us on our journey. But He has an even greater plan. He will take us back to our past. He will not let us camp there, but He will take us back from time to time to visit. Not to revisit our pain, though it is there; swept under our carpet so long ago. He takes us there to heal us from our pain. He takes us there to confront and deal with the issues of our life that broke us. He picks up the shattered pieces. The shards of glass that no one could ever put back together again. And He makes us a “new creature”. He makes us whole. Joy does come in the morning.

We enter a new hope, a new season. Winter is past. The birds sing again. The flowers bloom and new life begins afresh. A beautiful thing begins in our life when God shakes our rug. Will you let Him?

Love~~

Marsha (Marty) Barth “The Shattering”

You tube link of Marsha (Marty) Barth Teaching

Published January 21, 2014 | By adminmbarth | Edit

Please click to review~~

May God Bless You on your
“Healing Journey”

http://youtu.be/AaQ6ovLnG90

Prisoners of Hope

Published January 21, 2014 | By adminmbarth | Edit

Here in Pennsylvania it is cold. They are calling for a big snow storm to hit tomorrow. And so it seems a long time since we’ve had the warm days of summer and fall. Already, I hear people saying they wish it was spring. And yet in this wintery bliss of white there is a beauty and a stillness of this season that no other encompasses. Even the birds hush their singing as we are blanketed in white. It is the only time of year when you stop to listen and actually can hear nothing but quiet. There is an awesomeness to this season.

“To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under heaven.” Eccles. 3:1. What season of your life are you in? What time and purpose of your life is being fulfilled? There is a time for every purpose in our lives. A time to weep, a time to laugh, a time to receive, a time to give, a time to heal…….

“I have seen the travail which God has given to the sons and daughters of men…. And He does make everything beautiful in His time….” Eccles. 3

God wants you to heal. Now is the accepted time. Now is the time for this purpose in your life. But do you want to heal???

There is a story from Dr. Allender’s book “The Wounded Heart” that I often like to paraphrase in my own words….

A person had a crushed arm from childhood and because of this it was greatly mangled. So much to the point that the person had adapted so well with the other arm that the loss didn’t seem so great. Years passed and the person went on with their life hardly noticing the helpless limb.

One day a group of surgeons notified the person that they could now with technology fix the mangled arm. It would take a lot of surgeries, a lot of rehab and it would be very very painful. But in the end the arm would be mended. It would heal and for the first time in many years the arm would be whole.

The person became very excited and for the first time took a good look at the limp arm that hung from their side. They opened their mouth to accept the offer but the head surgeon gently raised his hand and interjected. Before you make this decision you have to know that it will be a painful process but in the end you will be made whole.

“I think I will wait,” came the soft reply. They looked at their limp arm and said, “It’s not really that bad. I manage okay, really. I have learned to cope and live a good life. I’m okay the way I am.”

“But why?” the doctors all asked. “Don’t you want to be whole? Why wouldn’t you want to have your arm fixed? Think of all the things that you could do. Think of how much more you could accomplish.”

“I’m fine the way I am,” came the reply.

“But why?” they pressed.

“It will be too painful,” came the answer. “Why go through all that pain when I’m fine just the way that I am?”

“Are you?” They asked. “Are you?”

And so it is so often with us. We travel through our lives with all of its hurts and pain. We hide our broken hearts and our shattered spirits. People ask “How are you today?”
And we answer, “I’m fine.” Never do we unveil the brokenness from within us. We don’t answer and tell them the times that we’ve cried ourselves to sleep, or when loneliness has overcome us, or even dare to mention the brokenness of our past. Why would we? In a world that is so full of cliches’ such as “Get over it” “Whatever” “Get a life” and even the simple “What’s your problem!?”

But God wants us to heal. But we say, “No God, I’m okay. It’s not that bad. That was in the past, a long time ago. I’m okay.” But are you? Are you? We cannot heal from what we won’t confront. God want us to be whole, to be happy. The healing journey can be painful but there is no greater joy than overcoming.

“Turn you to the stronghold, you Prisoners of Hope: even today do I declare that I will render double unto you.” Zechariah 9:12. Come join me–”You Prisoners of HOPE” on this wonderful Healing Journey.

Love~~

One Response to Prisoners of Hope

Toni Stewart on January 21, 2014 at 12:09 pm (Edit)

One of my favorite scriptures is in Luke 4:18 & 19 when Jesus reads from the scripture to explain why He has come. Too often when we accept salvation, we think that is the end, but actually, it is only the beginning. Praise the Lord!

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me,
Because He has anointed Me
To preach the gospel to the poor;
He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,
To proclaim liberty to the captives
And recovery of sight to the blind,
To set at liberty those who are oppressed;
To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.
Follow the Star

Published December 29, 2013 | By adminmbarth | Edit
Merry Merry Christmas

Christmas–What a wonderful time of year! There is something magical that comes over us at Christmas time. This desire for the world to change and that for just this one day that everyone could experience joy and happiness. There is a hope that a miracle can still happen. It is at Christmas that we believe. Believe in a way that surely anything is possible. Whether or not the social media waters the season down with such common words as “Happy Holidays” or “Seasons Greetings” so many will still gleefully belt out from their heart in a heavenly fervor—MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!

So why is it in such a season as this that instead of the overflowing abundance of happiness that our hearts so desire that often we see instead such a shadow of sorrow? I believe it is in the very presence of happiness that we see such sorrow. Happiness is the beam of heaven’s light that shines in our heart and awakens it to see the shadows of sorrows–ours and others.

Why is it at Christmas time that the sorrows of this life affect us more keenly? It is because our hearts want to be happy. We want others to be happy. We want the beam of that light of happiness to touch one soul, one hurt.  And it can! Oh that in that one moment of life we can be a part of erasing the sorrows of others, of bringing comfort to a broken heart, to sharing a love that can make even at least one heart smile with a new hope.

Such is the magic of Christmas. That is why ”Happy Holidays” and ”Season’s Greetings” doesn’t work. There is a power in the words “MERRY CHRISTMAS” when they echo with passion from our heart. There is strength that rises from a simple touch of love. There is a hope that shines from a heart full of sorrow when a simple gesture of kindness is given.

Oh this beautiful season of love that we call Christmas. Oh that its power could ripple through the new year creating a tidal wave of love, joy, peace and hope. And it can! It begins with us and the secret found in the very words of Christmas. “Christ-mas”.

The unexplainable power of love that comes forth in this one word. It shines as bright as the star did that first Christmas day. The star that led the shepherds and the wise men to Him that day still shines bright to lead all of us to Him today.

Do we follow the wonder of that star or do we continue to toil with the cares and demands that we have created for this season?

In the twinkle of the lights–let us find a reminder of the love that was birthed that day. A love that we not only can give to others but a love that was given for us also to receive.

“Be not afraid,” the angel spoke to Mary, Joseph, and the shepherds. Be not afraid to follow the ”Star”, to meet Him this Christmas season, to receive His love, to give Him your heart. Christmas is more than a season, it can be life itself.

Merry Christmas dear friends and a very Happy New Year!!!!!

Copyright © Marsha Barth

Memory Lane Continued

Published December 11, 2013 | By adminmbarth | Edit

So why did God give us this awesome beautiful gift of memory?

I read once that the brain cannot at first discern a memory from a current thought and can release the same brain chemicals in the memory that it did at the actual event happening. That is why good memories make us smile and laugh and sad memories make us sad and cry.

So why can’t we only recall the good and forget the bad? Why must we remember the bad? So that we can heal! How can we deal with the bad if we don’t remember it? How can we heal from the bad if we can’t remember it?

Memory was not given for us to pull up a chair, settle in and build a house and live there. Memory was given so that we could safely return, visit and then leave again. Here we can begin to heal. Here we can laugh or cry.

I have taken many walks down Memory Lane. It is a place that when I go there, I do not go alone. I put my hand into the hand of my loving heavenly Father. So often, I laughed and smiled as I reminisced on the many happy times. But on the cloudy days when I walked down this lane, I grasped my heavenly Father’s hand tighter and tighter. I may want to run away and never return to walk down that particular path ever again, but my heavenly Father beckons me to walk it again with Him.

Why? Why must I go back and deal with it? Why can’t I just bury it or ignore it? Because it will come back when you least expect it, triggered, these many memories leap from the past and hit us square in the face. Memories do not just go away. We have to deal with them to heal from them. God says to our hearts, “Am I God of the good only?” He that bore all of our pain and sorrow, can He not carry us now? “Am I a God that can only deliver you out of your sorrow and not heal you from it?”

But how do we heal? How do we get over the past? How do we go on with our lives?   How do we laugh again?  It is a journey!

Come join me on this healing journey~~

Jeremiah 29:11-13

“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall you call upon me, and you shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. And you shall seek me, and find me, when you shall search for me with all your heart.”

Copyright © Marsha Barth

Memory Lane

Published October 30, 2013 | By adminmbarth | Edit

As I enter the room and turn on the light a distinct hum fills the air. I turn to the direction in the room that now resounds with a familiarity that I have grown to love.

The small brass clock sits on my antique desk in the corner. It’s ornate face shows the time and the attached encasement reveals the similitude of a fireplace. A small revolving panel reflects the amber light to make it appear as if the fireplace is lit and burning. It makes a persistent loud hum when it is first turned on and then the noise fades and the small fireplace creates an ambiance, a quaintness that mesmerizes me as I sit quietly and reflect on it’s beauty.

The clock belonged to my gramma. She passed when I was seventeen years old. I loved her dearly. Gramma was like no other woman that I have ever known. She was a big robust woman who baked the best homemade bread, pies and cakes that I have ever eaten in my life. She had a heart bigger than her frame, a love that made you feel special and a hug that made the world go away.

It’s a funny thing the emotions that memories trigger. They can make the heart smile or the body tremble. They make us laugh and sometimes cry. And yet we go there. We take the long or short walks, however we may feel in any given moment, down our memory lanes. If they get too disturbing or troublesome we just hop back to the present and refuse to go back. Or do we?

I’m reminded of a story of where a little girl who was having bad dreams was told by a kind woman not to think of little pink bunnies before she went to sleep. Whatever she did, whatever would cross her mind before bedtime, she must not, must not think of little pink bunnies. She must concentrate hard and make sure that no matter what, before she was to fall asleep that she made sure that she would not think of little pink bunnies. If she was successful in doing this then she would not have the bad dreams. The little girl seemed puzzled at the woman’s suggestion but vowed she would try her suggestion.

The next day when the little girl met up with the woman, the woman asker her kindly, “Did you have any bad dreams last night?” Wherein the little girl answered, “It is so strange. I did what you said before bed. I kept telling myself, “I will not think of little pink bunnies, I will not think of little pink bunnies.”

“And what happened?” asked the concerned woman.

“I dreamed of little pink bunnies all night,” the little girl answered with a big smile.

We can’t escape our memories— The more we try not to think of it the more we will think of it. In our hearts are buried the memories of a lifetime, the good, the bad, the sad, the happy. We do not live there and yet at any given time we can soar there as if we were rocketed back in time to the very place of that memory. Anything may be the trigger that rivets us from the here and now into its grasp. A certain smell, a picture, a color, a fragrance, a smile, a word, a sound, music.

Why did God give us this awesome beautiful gift of memory? Wouldn’t it be nice if we could just push a switch in our brain and we could only recall the good memories? Why didn’t God make us that we only had the ability to recall the good? Who needs to recall the sad or bad anyway, right?   And yet He did. He made us capable to not only recall both, but that we have no switch to erase the bad and just keep the good.

Why?……….

Copyright © Marsha Barth

Welcome–Joy Comes in the Morning

Published October 1, 2013 | By adminmbarth | Edit

Welcome to my blog. I am so excited to share with you and to get your feedback. As many of you may know that have reviewed this website, it is a Joy to walk in Victory! The Shattering is a story of Victory not Victimization. We were never meant to walk in the bondage of sorrow. Sorrow is for a season but Joy comes in the morning.

I welcome you to join me in this great and wonderful journey of Joy. A Journey of Healing. A Journey of Victory. No more are we cast down, and heavy trodden. No more do we hide our sorrow. Now we live again. We rise up. For Death is swallowed up in Victory. Now we go forth and bring good tidings to the meek, bind up the brokenhearted, proclaim liberty to the captives and the opening of the prison to them that are bound. (Isaiah 61:1)

But how do we heal you may ask?  How do we overcome? How do I get over my past? When do I quit hurting? When does the pain go away?   When do I laugh again? How do I forgive? Wonder if I don’t want to forgive?

“Turn you to the Stronghold, you Prisoners of hope: even today do I declare that I will render double unto thee.”  (Zechariah 9:12)

Come join me in this blog. Take a walk with me on this Healing Journey!

Copyright © Marsha Barth

6 Responses to Welcome–Joy Comes in the Morning

tf on October 18, 2013 at 8:26 pm (Edit)

“Dear Marty,
I finished your book about 2 weeks ago. I must admit I am not an avid book reader. I probably have only read 3 books in my entire 57 years of life, one being yours. I first decided to read the book because you are my “sister”. The book was well written and I enjoyed the honesty in which it was written.
I couldn’t believe that you and the boys endured what you did, while I was in my own little world, never knowing the pain and fear you lived with on a daily basis. I always thought we were the ones “who had it bad”. After all I was the one who lived without a mom around, knowing that she choose to leave us. Looking back, I knew you had a mom that loved and cared for you. She was there to hug you and tell you I Love You, if only on a weekend. I was a child, and in a child’s mind that was better than what I had. No child wants to know that her own mother has chosen to leave her, to grow up not knowing a mother’s love and nurturing.
After reading your book I realized I had a father unlike yours. Yes, he is far from perfect. However, he made a home for us, always had food on the table and was always there. Being 18 months or so younger than you were, I can remember one thing vividly from my past when you would come to spend the weekends. Dad’s rule of the house was to always finish a box of cereal before opening another one. When you kids came that rule didn’t apply. As a child all I saw was the unfairness to us. Now as an adult and after reading your book I realize why that rule never applied to you kids. Your mother only wanted to make things special for you, giving anything she could. I never dreamed the food I had on the table every day, no matter how meager, was better and more than what you had. What a silly thing to remember (a stupid box of cereal)….that was the only negative thing I remember of our life with you. I choose to remember happy times like playing music and dancing to ‘Sweet Pea’. The many games of Wahoo and playing outside. I thank you for sharing your mother with us! She is the only childhood memory I have of a mother figure. All kids pay a great price for the mistakes of adults. I know that we were just kids, but I personally am heartbroken to learn of the mental and physical abuse you all suffered as children.
Every child can look back on their childhood and pick out something that has influenced their lives, good or bad. I certainly have realized that I was a better mom to my kids because my mother left us. Just the same as you have given of yourself your entire adult life not only to your family but to the thousands of people you help through your spiritual guidance.
Thank God for people like you Marty! I have always been proud of the fact you and your brothers were my sister and brothers. Even though we sometimes lose touch over the years, we always make it back to each other in times of need. I love you and I am so proud of you and your accomplishments. May your book be as great a success in your heart as the volumes’ that will fly off the bookstore shelves.
Love….Teresa

Reply

Stacy Morgan Krippe on October 18, 2013 at 8:34 pm (Edit)

“Thank you for sharing your story with everyone. I cried ( many times) and laughed also! But your strength is amazing! THE SHATTERING is an amazing book that everyone should read!”

Reply

Theresa Johnson on October 18, 2013 at 8:43 pm (Edit)

“I love this author!!”
“You got to get your hands on this life-changing book! God is awesome!”

Reply

Judy Day on October 18, 2013 at 8:49 pm (Edit)

Marty, I really do not know what to say. I never imagined your childhood was so awful. You are truly one of Gods miracles. To overcome and be a strong wonderful person does not happen without loving intervention. Thank you for having the courage to share your story and I look forward to reading the next one.

Reply

Donna Carr on October 18, 2013 at 8:54 pm (Edit)

“If you need healing this book will help light the way!”

Reply

Toni Stewart on October 18, 2013 at 8:59 pm (Edit)

The Shattering is a beautifully and simply written account of a child living through the heartbreak of sexual abuse. The author, Marsha Barth (Marty as we know her), confronts this still taboo topic head on through the innocent eyes and voice of Julie. She deftly explores the generational aspects of abuse in families and the inclination of adults in our society to turn a blind eye or “let it go”.

The true artistry of this story is how openly Marsha is able to explore the hearts and minds of each character making the reader truly care about each person involved, even Julie’s tortured father, Ron. In spite of the heaviness of the subject, there is a charm and warmth that comes through among Julie and her brothers, which clearly demonstrate their great love for one another. It is that love that carries them through the most difficult times.

The saddest part of the book is realizing the emotional turmoil suffered by Julie as she tries to understand why these things have happened to her. We then get a glimpse of a child on the verge of defeat as she wonders “why Jesus wouldn’t help her or just let her die”.

Surprisingly, the overarching theme in this book is hope. From the sweetness of Julie and her brothers finding joy in the small things of their lives to the love and mercy of God that Julie first experiences in a little country church, hope is evident in every chapter of this book. In this book, we see Julie firmly place her faith in God to walk her through the valleys in her life from victim to victor.

As I finished the epilogue of this story, I was moved beyond words by the beautiful promise of Julie’s life as she walks in Christ. I look forward to reading the remainder of Julie’s story in the next book. Thank you, Marty, for sharing this beautiful story of hope in the Love of God.

Blog

Joy Comes in the Morning….

Be Still and Know…

Dare They Hope?…..

Is It Spring???

“No Maffew…I Never Forgive You….”

“Where are You Christmas?”

A Cry in the Night….

Slaying Dragons..

Dealing with Relationships….

Going Forward….

She Never Knew a Stranger….

“Darkness Cannot Drive Out Darkness…

What Touches Your Heart Today????

Hungry Hearts……

“Tell Me a Story, MeMaw”…..

Shadowed by Love….

Sounds of Freedom…

Take It All Back….

A Helping Hand…..

Where Justice Can Make a Difference….

Making a Difference….

No Longer Silent….

You Can………

We Can Go Back Home Again…..

Victim to Victor

It’s Raining…But the Birds are Still Singing…

Forgiveness……

Is This “Real Ice Cream….“

Did You Know….

A Single Rose….

Love’s Precious Gift….

Sweet Memories…

“There’s Life in Our Words”….

Never Say “Uncle”….

Tony’s a Hit!!!

We Are More than Just a Weed!

Tony the Lonely Dandelion…..

by: Marsha Barth

Dare to Be a Daniel…

The Cloud Has Lifted….

Mystery of the Butterfly….

Sorrow in Paradise…

Are You a Repairer of the Breach….

The Sound of Freedom………

Set Free…..

“Hidden Riches in Secret Places….

Have You Smiled Today…..

Shadowed By Love……

Treasures of the Darkness….

Speak Up~~Speak Out

Speak Up, Speak Out!!

Sticky Fingers….

How Do You Deal With Conflict???

Can You Trust???

Joy to the World…..

The Joy of Christmas…

A Night to Remember….

A Tribute to Love…..

I Didn’t Know….

“Suffer the Children to Come Unto Me….”

The Power of Words…..

Wonder if…..

“Walk into Your Season….“

“Wearing Forgiveness as a Crown…..“

“Are You My Friend?”

“Magic of the Morn”…..

We Are More Than Conquerors…..

Happy Mother’s Day Momma…..

Where Does Strength Come From….

It Was a Blizzard…..

We Can Make a Difference

Love Makes a Difference….

How Could I Not See????

My Momma~~

Fight the Good Fight….

I Love Christmas….

A Time to Share….

We Can Make a Difference…..

Have You Not Heard?

BOOK TALK AND BOOK SIGNING…..
THIS THURSDAY AT 7:30 P.M. NOVEMBER 14, 2019