Leland Family Ministries

03/17/2026

Love This💕

I believe that some souls just aren’t meant to stay here long.

And I don’t say that lightly.

It’s not something I understand in any earthly way.
Because truthfully, I don’t.

There’s no logic that can explain why someone we love so much could be here one day and gone the next.

If there’s a reason, I wish I knew it.
But I don’t.

What I do believe is that we’re each sent here to touch certain lives. To love certain people. To leave imprints that carry on long after we’re gone.

Maybe our time, no matter how painfully short or unexpectedly brief, isn’t measured in years but in the depth of love we give and the connections we make.

I’ve seen how a single person, even one who's left this world way too soon, can change everything for those they loved. The ripple of their kindness, their laughter, their very presence, it never really disappears.

It lingers in every person they touched.
And in the ways we love others because of how they loved us.

Maybe that was their purpose.
Maybe that was their gift.

Still…knowing that doesn’t erase the pain I still feel every day.
It doesn’t fill the space they left behind.
Because the missing never fully goes away.

But sometimes, I can still feel the love.
Like they’re whispering to me,
“I did what I came here to do and I left my love with you.”

And that’s enough for me now. To hold onto the idea that their time, no matter how brief, was important and special. That the love wasn’t taken away, it only transformed.

That even though they couldn’t stay, that gift of love they gave me will continue to grow for as long as I live.

In many ways, I feel like that love is still here, because love isn’t something you can touch and hold in your hand. It’s a feeling.

And it’s still here…moving through my heart.

Gary Sturgis
Author: ‘SURVIVING GRIEF – 365 Days A Year’

03/13/2026

Friday Morning Life is Heavenly Devotional
Strength for Today

Scripture:
“The Sovereign Lord is my strength;
he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,
he enables me to tread on the heights.”
Habakkuk 3:19

Some mornings we wake up feeling refreshed and ready. Other mornings we rise carrying burdens, unanswered questions, and quiet weariness. But the beauty of walking with God is that our strength does not have to begin with us. It begins with Him.

This scripture is such a powerful reminder for Friday morning. After a long week, when your heart may feel tired and your mind may be full, God does not ask you to force your way through the day in your own power. He offers to be your strength. Not just a little help. Not just a boost. He Himself becomes the strength beneath your feet.

Habakkuk speaks of God making his feet like a deer’s feet—steady, sure, and able to keep moving even on rough and elevated places. That means the Lord knows how to help you walk through places that feel uncertain, steep, or difficult. He can keep you steady when life feels uneven. He can help you stand when you thought you might fall. He can carry you higher than fear, disappointment, and exhaustion.

Today, you may not know everything that lies ahead, but you do not have to. God already knows. He has gone before you, and He is faithful to give you exactly what you need for this day. Not tomorrow’s grace. Not next week’s strength. Today’s. Right now’s. Moment by moment, He will hold you up.

So take a deep breath this Friday morning and remember: you are not walking alone. The Lord is your strength. He is steadying your steps, lifting your heart, and helping you move forward with grace.

Encouragement for today:
God will give you the strength you need for every step He calls you to take.

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for being my strength today. When I feel weak, remind me that You are steady and faithful. Help me walk through this Friday with peace, confidence, and trust in You. Strengthen my heart, steady my steps, and lift my eyes above every worry. In Jesus’ name, amen.

01/06/2026

Life Is Heavenly — Tuesday Morning Devotional

Some mornings arrive quietly. Others come carrying yesterday’s weight.
But every morning—no matter how it feels—arrives wrapped in fresh mercy.

God does not ask you to replay what you got wrong, to relive what hurt, or to rehearse what you fear. He invites you to begin again. Heaven’s rhythm is not perfection; it is renewal.

When you wake up today, remember this:
You are not walking into this Tuesday alone.
You are stepping into a day already prepared by a faithful God.

Grace met you before your feet touched the floor.
Strength is available before the task appears.
Peace is offered before the noise begins.

Life becomes heavenly when we stop demanding certainty and start trusting faithfulness. God doesn’t promise an easy path—but He does promise His presence every step of the way.

Take a deep breath.
Receive today as a gift.
And walk forward knowing Heaven is closer than you think.

Scripture for Today

“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,
for his compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.”
Lamentations 3:22–23 (NIV)

Heavenly Reminder for Today:
You don’t have to carry yesterday into today. God already wrote mercy into this morning.

12/24/2025

Life Is Heavenly Morning Devotional

Heaven Came Near

In the stillness of this early morning, Christmas reminds us of a holy truth that changes everything: Heaven came near.

The world expected power, yet God arrived in humility.
The world looked for a throne, yet Heaven chose a manger.
The world waited for a king, yet Love came wrapped in flesh.

Jesus did not shout His arrival. He whispered it—through angels, through starlight, through the cry of a newborn who would one day carry the weight of the world’s sin and the fullness of God’s grace.

Christmas is not merely a date on the calendar; it is the moment Heaven stepped into our brokenness and declared, “You are not alone.”
In our weariness, God brings rest.
In our darkness, God brings light.
In our longing, God brings Himself.

This morning, pause and breathe in the wonder: the same God who placed stars in the sky chose to dwell among us—and still chooses to dwell within us.

Life is truly heavenly, not because life is easy, but because Emmanuel—God with us—has come.

Scripture Reading

“The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
John 1:14 (NIV)

Morning Reflection

As you begin this day, ask yourself:
• Where do I need to recognize that God is with me right now?
• How can I carry His light into the lives of others today?

May your morning be peaceful, your heart be full, and your life reflect the heavenly gift of Christ.

Life Is Heavenly

12/23/2025

Mid-Morning Devotional — Life is Heavenly

As the morning unfolds and the day gains momentum, it’s easy to slip into autopilot—moving from task to task without pausing to notice God’s presence. Mid-morning is a gentle invitation to slow your spirit, even while your hands stay busy, and remember that heaven’s rhythm is not rushed.

God is not only found in the quiet early hours or the reflective close of day. He walks with us in the middle moments—the emails, the conversations, the planning, the problem-solving. When we invite Him into now, ordinary work becomes sacred ground.

“The Lord will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring.”
Isaiah 58:11 (NLT)

Notice the promise: continually. Not occasionally. Not only when we pause long enough. God’s guidance and refreshment are available even when life feels full and demanding. When we remain open to Him, He restores us from the inside out—quietly, steadily, faithfully.

If this morning feels heavy, ask Him for strength. If it feels productive, thank Him for clarity. If it feels uncertain, trust that His guidance is already at work.

Take one deep breath. Offer this moment to Him. Life is not just busy—it is heavenly, because God is here.

Mid-Morning Prayer
Lord, meet me in the middle of this day. Refresh my heart, guide my thoughts, and help me reflect Your peace in all I do. Thank You for walking with me continually. Amen.

12/03/2025

Daily Devotional — “Life Is Heavenly”

“This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”
— Psalm 118:24

Today, let this truth settle gently into your heart:
God created this very day with intention, purpose, and goodness—just for you. Even if life feels busy, uncertain, or heavy, there is still a divine sweetness woven into every moment. Heaven brushes against earth in the quiet reminders that you are never walking alone.

Every sunrise carries a promise.
Every breath is a gift.
Every step forward is guided by a loving God who sees you, knows you, and delights in you.

As you move through the hours ahead, remember:
You are strengthened. You are cherished. You are held.
God’s grace meets you right where you are, lifting your spirit and lighting your path.

Rejoice in today—even in the small ways.
Life is more heavenly than you realize, and God is already in your tomorrow.

11/28/2025

Life is Heavenly – Morning Devotional
“Grace for Today”

“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed,
for His compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is Your faithfulness.”
— Lamentations 3:22–23

Every sunrise carries God’s promise: You get to begin again. His compassion hasn’t run out, His mercy hasn’t thinned, and His faithfulness has not wavered.

Whatever yesterday held, let today be a fresh start wrapped in grace.
God is already in your next step.
His peace is available in every moment.
His love is steady, unshakable, and close.

Walk into this day expecting good things — not because life is perfect, but because He is faithful.

Life is Heavenly — because He is.

11/24/2025

11/17/2025

Introducing: Life Is Heavenly – Daily Devotionals

I’m excited to begin a new journey called “Life Is Heavenly”—a daily devotional meant to remind us that God’s grace allows us to experience moments of heaven right here on earth. Each day, I’ll share a short reflection to inspire, uplift, and encourage your heart.

Life isn’t perfect, but God’s presence is. And when we look for His hand in our everyday moments, we begin to see that life truly is heavenly.

Thank you for walking this journey with me. Let’s grow together.

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Life Is Heavenly – Day 1

“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9

Every day brings its own joys and challenges, but God’s grace meets us exactly where we are. Sometimes we feel strong, and sometimes we feel like we’re barely standing—but His grace holds us in both seasons.

When we pause long enough to notice the small blessings, the unexpected kindness, the strength to keep going, or simply the breath in our lungs, we begin to see glimpses of heaven woven into our everyday lives.

Today, let this truth settle in your heart:
You are carried. You are covered. You are never alone.

Look for God in the ordinary today—you may be surprised how heavenly life can be.

11/17/2025

Forevermissed logo Birds
Dear Libbie,

Today marks the 4th anniversary of Jason Lynn Leland's passing.

If you feel moved to do so, remember Jason by leaving a new tribute, adding a new photo, or sharing a recently-remembered story that will help others reflect on his life.

To visit the memorial, please follow this link: jason-lynn-leland.forevermissed.com

If you have any questions or need assistance, please reply to this email or contact us at [email protected].

With care,
The ForeverMissed team
www.ForeverMissed.com

Share memories of your loved one on a beautiful personalized website. Invite friends and family to leave tributes, add stories, pictures and music.

11/16/2025

Yesterday reminded me just how blessed I truly am.

Thank you to everyone who called, texted, and reached out to check on me and my grandbabies. Your love and kindness mean more than you know.

Six months before Jason passed away, God spoke three powerful words to my spirit: “My grace is sufficient.” And honestly, that’s what has carried me through these last four years. His strength, His grace, and the incredible support of family and friends like you.

Because of all of you—and because of Him—I can truly say… life is heavenly.

11/15/2025

💙 Four years today without my son, Jason Leland. 💙
These memories came up this morning… and they took my breath away.
Please take a moment to read his story below.

⸻

💙 In Loving Memory of My Son, Jason Leland 💙
Four Years in Heaven — March 4

Today marks four years since my only child, my son Jason Leland, left this earth. Even now, it still doesn’t feel real.

Not a day passes that I don’t feel the emptiness his absence has left on our family. Our world has never been the same without him — and never will be — because Jason was the heartbeat of so many moments, memories, and smiles.

This morning, Facebook shared photos of me, Jason, and two of my grandchildren — his oldest babies — chasing Nevaeh and laughing together.

Seeing those pictures hit me in a place that words can hardly touch. They reminded me of the joy he brought into every room, the way he loved his children, and the bond we all shared. Those memories are treasures that keep him close, even when he feels so far away.

Grief has no ending, but neither does love. My love for Jason grows deeper each year he’s been gone, and so does my desire to honor his life, his spirit, and the incredible person he was.

⸻

🐾 Jason’s Beautiful Heart for Animals

From the time he was little, Jason had a special love for animals. There was never a moment in our home when we didn’t have a pet he adored.

One memory that will stay with me forever is the day before our beloved dog Leland had to be put down. Jason went out, bought the biggest, juiciest steak he could find, grilled it to perfection, and gave Leland a “last supper” made with pure love.

That was who Jason was — a soul with a heart big enough to love deeply, fiercely, and without hesitation. His compassion for animals was truly beautiful.

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💙 A Heart for People — Always for the Underdog

Jason didn’t just love animals — he loved people. His compassion extended to anyone who crossed his path.

At Leland Family Ministries, he helped so many behind the scenes… encouraging them, lifting them up, and reminding them of their value.

And what made his kindness even more powerful was that Jason helped people even while he was facing his own struggles in life.

He understood pain. He understood hardship. And that understanding gave him a rare ability to empathize.
He connected with people because he knew what it felt like to fight battles others couldn’t see.

That’s why the underdog meant so much to him — he saw himself in them, and he always wanted to be the one who offered hope, not judgment.

His heart for people was every bit as sincere and beautiful as his heart for animals.

⸻

🙏 The Birth of Leland Family Ministries — Inspired by Jason

It was because of Jason’s own life challenges that Leland Family Ministries was founded 28 years ago.

Watching his struggles — and seeing the compassion he carried in spite of them — moved me to help others walking similar paths.

And although Leland is Jason and his children’s last name, God gave Jason — at just 13 years old — a powerful and meaningful acronym that became the foundation of the ministry:

L E L A N D — LOVE EVERYONE LONELY AND NEEDING DIRECTION

Those words came straight from Jason’s heart, and they continue to guide and touch lives every single day.

Thank you for watching over us, Jason. Your spirit is still at work.

⸻

✨ In His Memory — A New Beginning

In Jason’s honor, we are launching the Life Is Heavenly brand — something created from love, loss, healing, and hope.

A few days ago, I shared the story behind the brand, and the response has been overwhelming and deeply touching.

This brand is dedicated to Jason’s memory and to everyone who has walked the road of heartbreak and transformation.

It is a reminder that even in our pain, something meaningful can rise.

Life Is Heavenly is for him.
It is because of him.
And it will carry his name, his light, and his love forward.

⸻

My son, Jason Leland,
you are forever loved.
Forever missed.
Forever remembered.

Your legacy lives on in your children,
in our family,
in every life you touched,
and now in every step we take with this new journey created in your honor.

I love you, Jason — today, tomorrow, and for the rest of my life. 💙
Please keep watching over us from Heaven.

⸻

🌐 To learn more about Our Life Is Heavenly brand, our ministries, and the missions inspired by Jason’s beautiful spirit, please visit:
www.heavenlypawstreats.com
www.heavenlypawspetservices.com
www.heavenlypawstreats.com
www.lelandfamilyministries.com
www.stayoutforgood.org

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📣 In His Honor — A Special Request

If you knew Jason…
If he touched your life…
If you shared even a small moment with him…

Please leave a comment.
Say his name.
Tell us something about your relationship with Jason and what he meant to you.

Your memories keep his spirit alive, and they mean more to our family than words can express.

⸻

If you want, I can also create a matching graphic, a banner, or a Life Is Heavenly image to go with this post.