Several years ago, a Harris County Deputy lost his life in an unfortunate. intentional situation. He was merely doing his job but the suspect had other plans. When making funeral arrangements his wife requested they play the song One More Day by Diamond Rio.
The song begins by telling the story of having a dream and being granted one wish. It goes on to say "I wouldn't wish for money or a mansion in Malibu, I simply wished for one more day with you."
When we ask for one more of anything it's either because we didn't get enough or we didn't accomplish all we wanted. For instance, if I could ask for one more red velvet cupcake because they are so good or I could ask for one hour to complete my task or make it better.
Today we experience something that we only experience every four years. This year is leap year which means we get one more day in February. One more day....is today. What will you do with it? Will you call someone and mend a relationship? Will you visit a widow or send someone a card? Will you go about your day and grumble about having to go to work today when so many are out of a job?
God made this day for you and for me. I don't know about you but I am grateful for this "extra" day. What will I do with it? We often wake up and wonder where we are going to have lunch without thinking of loved ones or those we have not spoken to in a while. We may go through the day without giving thought of those fighting for our freedom. We may drag ourself out of bed and get settled into the routine.
Live this day to the fullest...cherish those you love. If you have not used those three words in a while, tell someone you love them. Your spouse, your child, a parent....don't waste the day. Don't let the sun set with you wishing for one more day to love, reconcile, or change a relationship.
That one more day is today!
This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalms 118:24
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
I'm warning you!
Many years ago there was a series called Lost in Space. We watched it on a black and white TV as kids. The idea was a normal american family that was lost in space right down to their space suits. One of the characters was a kid named Will Robinson. There was also a "robot" that was quite an asset to them.
The robot, with accordion arms, would warn Will Robinson by saying "Danger Will Robinson, Danger." Of course the robot was right as impending danger always loomed around the corner.
The other day I was driving on one of our streets when I noticed signs that said "Left Lane Closed." As I continued to drive, I did not see anyone making a move to the right lane. I went further and still nothing eventhough the warning signs were closer and more frequent.
Finally, I see the cones, lights and movement. I did the right thing and moved over early but these people waited until the last minute and NOW they want to get in. It is worse when my husband is driving because I sit as the passenger and play "chatty Kathy" about why these people wait until the last minute. "Can't they see the signs?" I ask.
Did they not see the warning? Did they not care? Well they didn't care for those of us that did the right thing. They should be made to wait or be given a "penalty flag" or time out...punishment of sorts for not listening or paying attention, or caring for the rest of us....don't they know I'm in a hurry too? Those rule-breakers! I just want to say "Get to the back of the line!"
This morning I saw a facebook post from my friend Tracy Vetitoe who wrote of riding with her child in the car and reaching a new milestone because she did not have to "alert (her child) of potential hazards." That put everything in perspective.
If Jesus had been critical of our sin, if he had held back because we failed to heed the warnings, if he had held back due to our sin, if he had listened to man who might have said "punsish them-they don't need a Savior" then none of us would have had a Savior.
Instead Jesus said I love them all...those that are faithful, those that are sinners, those that are my children-that includes all of us! I am thankful that God sent His Son to save all of us law breakers, fibbers, accusers, am I am thankful for friends that help me keep things in perspective.
Jesus came that we might have life [John 10:10] and he is not willing that any of us should perish but that everyone would come to repentance. [2 Peter 3:9]
In life there will be potential hazards...the answer is to heed the warning!
Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it. Matthew 17:24-25
The robot, with accordion arms, would warn Will Robinson by saying "Danger Will Robinson, Danger." Of course the robot was right as impending danger always loomed around the corner.
The other day I was driving on one of our streets when I noticed signs that said "Left Lane Closed." As I continued to drive, I did not see anyone making a move to the right lane. I went further and still nothing eventhough the warning signs were closer and more frequent.
Finally, I see the cones, lights and movement. I did the right thing and moved over early but these people waited until the last minute and NOW they want to get in. It is worse when my husband is driving because I sit as the passenger and play "chatty Kathy" about why these people wait until the last minute. "Can't they see the signs?" I ask.
Did they not see the warning? Did they not care? Well they didn't care for those of us that did the right thing. They should be made to wait or be given a "penalty flag" or time out...punishment of sorts for not listening or paying attention, or caring for the rest of us....don't they know I'm in a hurry too? Those rule-breakers! I just want to say "Get to the back of the line!"
This morning I saw a facebook post from my friend Tracy Vetitoe who wrote of riding with her child in the car and reaching a new milestone because she did not have to "alert (her child) of potential hazards." That put everything in perspective.
If Jesus had been critical of our sin, if he had held back because we failed to heed the warnings, if he had held back due to our sin, if he had listened to man who might have said "punsish them-they don't need a Savior" then none of us would have had a Savior.
Instead Jesus said I love them all...those that are faithful, those that are sinners, those that are my children-that includes all of us! I am thankful that God sent His Son to save all of us law breakers, fibbers, accusers, am I am thankful for friends that help me keep things in perspective.
Jesus came that we might have life [John 10:10] and he is not willing that any of us should perish but that everyone would come to repentance. [2 Peter 3:9]
In life there will be potential hazards...the answer is to heed the warning!
Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it. Matthew 17:24-25
Monday, February 27, 2012
Another day
Yesterday I went to visit my father in law. My husband was working on the pipes under the kitchen sink that went in over 40 years ago and are falling apart. I busied myself and in the end, we were there three hours.
An "it'll only take a minute" took three hours. As I waited, I visited with my father in law and we discussed packing some glassware that has sat on his dining room table for at least 5 years. That room is never used and I believe one reason is that you can't see the table for the glassware.
I told him we could pack all the pitchers, cups, glasses and other items. He got distracted and before I knew it, he was discribing specific items. "This piece lived through the fire" he said and then went on to tell me about the fire in the early 1900's that destroyed his parents home. "This piece was created by my late sister and it's over 100 years old." "This piece belonged to my great grandmother." Oh the stories.
Needless to say, we didn't make progress in packing. As we prepared to leave, I apologized to my father-in-law for not getting far. He looked at me and said "there is always another day."
That comes from a 97 year old man who has lived many days. This is a man who would rather you sit and let him share his WWII and Korea stories than to have you work around his house. He wants to share his stories of fight and survival, a man who loves God. He is a man that lost his wife of 64 years and began writing to ease his his pain. He is on his third book of poems. Poems that reflect his loves, his passion and his life.
All the days ordained for us were written in God's book before they came to be. Only God knows if there will really be another day however, this is a man who continues to believe that there will always be "another day" to pack, today is for living not packing.
My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in your secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. Psalm 139:15-16
An "it'll only take a minute" took three hours. As I waited, I visited with my father in law and we discussed packing some glassware that has sat on his dining room table for at least 5 years. That room is never used and I believe one reason is that you can't see the table for the glassware.
I told him we could pack all the pitchers, cups, glasses and other items. He got distracted and before I knew it, he was discribing specific items. "This piece lived through the fire" he said and then went on to tell me about the fire in the early 1900's that destroyed his parents home. "This piece was created by my late sister and it's over 100 years old." "This piece belonged to my great grandmother." Oh the stories.
Needless to say, we didn't make progress in packing. As we prepared to leave, I apologized to my father-in-law for not getting far. He looked at me and said "there is always another day."
That comes from a 97 year old man who has lived many days. This is a man who would rather you sit and let him share his WWII and Korea stories than to have you work around his house. He wants to share his stories of fight and survival, a man who loves God. He is a man that lost his wife of 64 years and began writing to ease his his pain. He is on his third book of poems. Poems that reflect his loves, his passion and his life.
All the days ordained for us were written in God's book before they came to be. Only God knows if there will really be another day however, this is a man who continues to believe that there will always be "another day" to pack, today is for living not packing.
My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in your secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. Psalm 139:15-16
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Could you give up your son
A few years ago, a couple from my father's church introduced the idea of foster parenting. Having an empty nest and still being relatively young, they made the decision to take in children born to unfortunate circumstances. Having been raised in this church, it still owns a piece of my heart so we keep in touch and visit often. Having lunch with my family almost every week after church, I get to hear the stories.
This couple has had several children in their home and has loved them unconditionally regardless of their circumstances. Three years ago they brought home a one year old boy with ivory skin and clear blue eyes. This child, affectionately called Bo, won everyone's heart.
For three years, the church has seen this child grow and settle down into a confident, secure child. He is loved by many. I would venture to say that he won everybody's heart but none like my father's. As a deacon, my father has taken his place on the front row of the church for years! That has not changed.
When dad met Bo, he was taken in by the child and immediately drawn to him. Dad would bring him a cookie every Sunday and every Sunday, Bo knew where to go. He very quickly learned two things....how to point to dad and how to say cookie. My father would often come to Sunday lunch with a story of Bo. Each time he spoke of him he reflected a joy that comes only from loving a child.
At church events, Dad was always seen looking for Bo or heard talking about Bo. Bo has been with our friends and part of that church family for almost three years. I recall dad coming home one day telling a story of how Bo got in trouble in church. He stated that Bo went to the corner and cried and it was all Dad could do to not weep with him.
We very recently received some unwelcomed and heartbreaking news. Our friends learned that Bo will be returned to be rejoined with his biological brothers [also children]. Bo is now four years old.
This reunion will not include his biological parents. A reunion for children will mean a heart break for the adults who have loved, raised and doted on Bo. In discussions with my family members, we recognize that this move will be difficult for my father. He loves that child. A child with skin and eyes a different color from his own children but who's heart is fused with his.
I can not imagine how difficult this must be for our friends. Bo is the second child they have returned to another environment. However, the difference in Bo is evident. His manners are impecable and his love for others contagious. He has been raised with a love for God and despite his young years, he knows he is loved.
I weep as I write this, as much for Bo as for my father. How difficult it must be to give up a son. Two thousand years ago, our Heavenly Father gave his only son. Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother...[John 19:25]
Our friends took this child knowing that one day they would have to "give him back." God sent His son knowing that one day, He would take on the sins of the world but the only way to do that was through giving up His own life.
Obedience is diffucult but just as difficult would be the idea of knowing what would eventually come. Although Jesus could have backed out, he could have run away, he could have hidden, he was obedient....he walked that walk and allowed us the opportunity at eternal life but giving up his own.
Bo is our son...could you give up your son?
For God so loved the world, that He gave his only son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
John 3:16
This couple has had several children in their home and has loved them unconditionally regardless of their circumstances. Three years ago they brought home a one year old boy with ivory skin and clear blue eyes. This child, affectionately called Bo, won everyone's heart.
For three years, the church has seen this child grow and settle down into a confident, secure child. He is loved by many. I would venture to say that he won everybody's heart but none like my father's. As a deacon, my father has taken his place on the front row of the church for years! That has not changed.
When dad met Bo, he was taken in by the child and immediately drawn to him. Dad would bring him a cookie every Sunday and every Sunday, Bo knew where to go. He very quickly learned two things....how to point to dad and how to say cookie. My father would often come to Sunday lunch with a story of Bo. Each time he spoke of him he reflected a joy that comes only from loving a child.
At church events, Dad was always seen looking for Bo or heard talking about Bo. Bo has been with our friends and part of that church family for almost three years. I recall dad coming home one day telling a story of how Bo got in trouble in church. He stated that Bo went to the corner and cried and it was all Dad could do to not weep with him.
We very recently received some unwelcomed and heartbreaking news. Our friends learned that Bo will be returned to be rejoined with his biological brothers [also children]. Bo is now four years old.
This reunion will not include his biological parents. A reunion for children will mean a heart break for the adults who have loved, raised and doted on Bo. In discussions with my family members, we recognize that this move will be difficult for my father. He loves that child. A child with skin and eyes a different color from his own children but who's heart is fused with his.
I can not imagine how difficult this must be for our friends. Bo is the second child they have returned to another environment. However, the difference in Bo is evident. His manners are impecable and his love for others contagious. He has been raised with a love for God and despite his young years, he knows he is loved.
I weep as I write this, as much for Bo as for my father. How difficult it must be to give up a son. Two thousand years ago, our Heavenly Father gave his only son. Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother...[John 19:25]
Our friends took this child knowing that one day they would have to "give him back." God sent His son knowing that one day, He would take on the sins of the world but the only way to do that was through giving up His own life.
Obedience is diffucult but just as difficult would be the idea of knowing what would eventually come. Although Jesus could have backed out, he could have run away, he could have hidden, he was obedient....he walked that walk and allowed us the opportunity at eternal life but giving up his own.
Bo is our son...could you give up your son?
For God so loved the world, that He gave his only son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
John 3:16
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Missing piece
A few weeks ago I began teaching a ladies bible study class at our church. As an exercise, I purchased several jigsaw puzzles for them to complete. The ladies enthusiastically joined in to complete the puzzles.
As they began completing the puzzles, I began to hear things like "I'm missing a piece" or "this is incomplete!" of course that was deliberate. The purpose was to make a point. As part of the effort, I had taken the "missing piece" and cut out the exact shape but with a different picture so that even though the piece fit, it did not reflect an accurate picture.
Many times we go through life and we feel like something is missing. We feel like we are missing a piece. Not just any piece but a piece that is going to fit and complete the picture. That piece (and that peace) can not be found just anywhere. Oh sure, you can find something to fill tht void and complete the puzzle but will it bring you true happiness? Will you be fulfilled? Locating that missing piece begins with finding our peace in Christ.
God sees the void, he sees the emptiness, he sees the hole. When the puzzles were complete with the true pieces, there was happiness that we could see the complete picture. There was
satisfaction and peace. There was no longer anxiety about locating the missing piece. You can not have peace with a missing piece.
A time is coming and in fact has come when you will be scattered, each to your own home. You will leave me all alone, yet I am not alone, for my father is with me. I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart, I have overcome the world. John 16:32-33
As they began completing the puzzles, I began to hear things like "I'm missing a piece" or "this is incomplete!" of course that was deliberate. The purpose was to make a point. As part of the effort, I had taken the "missing piece" and cut out the exact shape but with a different picture so that even though the piece fit, it did not reflect an accurate picture.
Many times we go through life and we feel like something is missing. We feel like we are missing a piece. Not just any piece but a piece that is going to fit and complete the picture. That piece (and that peace) can not be found just anywhere. Oh sure, you can find something to fill tht void and complete the puzzle but will it bring you true happiness? Will you be fulfilled? Locating that missing piece begins with finding our peace in Christ.
God sees the void, he sees the emptiness, he sees the hole. When the puzzles were complete with the true pieces, there was happiness that we could see the complete picture. There was
satisfaction and peace. There was no longer anxiety about locating the missing piece. You can not have peace with a missing piece.
A time is coming and in fact has come when you will be scattered, each to your own home. You will leave me all alone, yet I am not alone, for my father is with me. I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart, I have overcome the world. John 16:32-33
Friday, February 24, 2012
Cheaters
I wear contacts to see better. They correct my distance vision but do nothing for my reading vision. I have joined the likes of many of my friends who now wear "readers" or more affectionately known as "cheaters." I did good however; it was only recently that I discovered my need.
I am not one to do without. I have a pair in my purse along with my regular prescribed pair but it doesn't stop there. There is a pair on my night stand, a pair at my computer hutch, one on the kitchen counter, and a pair in my car. They are everywhere and they are fashionable. Pink, purple, brown, gray all nice pairs. I WILL have a pair of glasses when I need them.
Today, I was preparing my lesson for Sunday and as I was researching, I pulled out my Bible. I read the scripture and decided I needed my study Bible. Yep, you guessed it. Just like my "cheaters" I have a Bible on my nightstand, my computer hutch, a study Bible, a large print Bible, a law enforcement Bible, a Woman's devotional Bible and so on.
I have to have my glasses in order to find my way, I cannot get far without them. So it is
with the Word of God. Without my glasses I am lost. Without the Word of God I am lost. When I want to see clearly I rely on my cheaters. When I need to see clearly I rely on the Word of God but in order to get that direction, I have to actually read it. With or without cheaters.
Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law. Psalms 119:18
I am not one to do without. I have a pair in my purse along with my regular prescribed pair but it doesn't stop there. There is a pair on my night stand, a pair at my computer hutch, one on the kitchen counter, and a pair in my car. They are everywhere and they are fashionable. Pink, purple, brown, gray all nice pairs. I WILL have a pair of glasses when I need them.
Today, I was preparing my lesson for Sunday and as I was researching, I pulled out my Bible. I read the scripture and decided I needed my study Bible. Yep, you guessed it. Just like my "cheaters" I have a Bible on my nightstand, my computer hutch, a study Bible, a large print Bible, a law enforcement Bible, a Woman's devotional Bible and so on.
I have to have my glasses in order to find my way, I cannot get far without them. So it is
with the Word of God. Without my glasses I am lost. Without the Word of God I am lost. When I want to see clearly I rely on my cheaters. When I need to see clearly I rely on the Word of God but in order to get that direction, I have to actually read it. With or without cheaters.
Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law. Psalms 119:18
Thursday, February 23, 2012
A short walk
The other day I went to the grocery store. I came in the back way so I was driving through the parking lot. I wanted a "close" space and thought I found it when I saw someone closer pulling out. I had a good spot but decided the one being vacated would be better. I giggled as I walked the short distance to the front door. I then gave thought to the need for a closer parking space.
Why did I need to be closer? Why did I wait for the closer spot when I was already making a move to park? I could only come up with one word....convenience which translated into "lazy." I simply did not want to walk the extra few steps. I didn't want to be there to begin with so if I had to be there, I might as well be close and save myself the walk.
That's how we are sometimes when it comes to spending time with God. We find that it is easier to "listen to a sermon" on the radio or "watch a sermon on tv" or even just sit through a class and we call it convenience. It is much more "convenient" to us if we take that route where sometimes we don't even open our Bible rather than to get into God's word on our own time.
It is important to know that while listening to a CD or watching a sermon may be convenient,
we need to nurture our walk by getting into the Word of God and letting God speak to us
personally. We also need to have fellowship with other believers. Convenience and short cuts
should only apply to parking spaces not spending time in the word of God. When we go shopping, we want a close parking space so we don't have to walk far. However, when we walk in a relationship with Christ, it should be a long, solid, growing walk...leave the short walk for the parking lot.
But if we walk in the light as he is in the light we have fellowship with one another and the blood of Jesus, his son purifies us from all sin. 1 John 1:7
Why did I need to be closer? Why did I wait for the closer spot when I was already making a move to park? I could only come up with one word....convenience which translated into "lazy." I simply did not want to walk the extra few steps. I didn't want to be there to begin with so if I had to be there, I might as well be close and save myself the walk.
That's how we are sometimes when it comes to spending time with God. We find that it is easier to "listen to a sermon" on the radio or "watch a sermon on tv" or even just sit through a class and we call it convenience. It is much more "convenient" to us if we take that route where sometimes we don't even open our Bible rather than to get into God's word on our own time.
It is important to know that while listening to a CD or watching a sermon may be convenient,
we need to nurture our walk by getting into the Word of God and letting God speak to us
personally. We also need to have fellowship with other believers. Convenience and short cuts
should only apply to parking spaces not spending time in the word of God. When we go shopping, we want a close parking space so we don't have to walk far. However, when we walk in a relationship with Christ, it should be a long, solid, growing walk...leave the short walk for the parking lot.
But if we walk in the light as he is in the light we have fellowship with one another and the blood of Jesus, his son purifies us from all sin. 1 John 1:7
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
The Voice
There is a weekly show called The Voice that airs on Monday nights. The "judges" sit facing opposite the contestants and judge them solely on the quality of their voice. A couple of episodes ago, a childhood friend of one of the judges was on. She did not buzz in or turn her chair to choose him. In fact, based on his voice, she did not recognize him.
I would suggest that one of the reasons she did not recognize the voice is because she lost touch with this friend. I would venture to guess that if a woman went into a room blindfolded, she could pick out her husband saying "I love you honey." Why? Because she spends time with him daily and probably hears those words daily.
When Jacob deceived Isaac into giving him the blessing by telling him he was Esau, Jacob said " the voice is the voice of Jacob but the hands are the hands of Esau." [Genesis 27:22] Jacob knew this because of the time he had spent with his sons, he knew their voice.
So it is with God. Moses was able to hear God's voice because of the time he spent with God. Daily walking with God builds intimacy-intimacy makes it easy to hear and recognize His voice.If we love someone, we honor them and spend time with them and know them....we know their voice even when we can't see them.
Listen carefully, are you hearing God's voice?
You came near and stood at the foot of the mountain while it blazed with fire to the very heavens, with black clouds and deep darkness. Then the Lord spoke to you out of the fire. You heard the sound of words but saw no form; there was only a voice. Deuteronomy 4:11-12
I would suggest that one of the reasons she did not recognize the voice is because she lost touch with this friend. I would venture to guess that if a woman went into a room blindfolded, she could pick out her husband saying "I love you honey." Why? Because she spends time with him daily and probably hears those words daily.
When Jacob deceived Isaac into giving him the blessing by telling him he was Esau, Jacob said " the voice is the voice of Jacob but the hands are the hands of Esau." [Genesis 27:22] Jacob knew this because of the time he had spent with his sons, he knew their voice.
So it is with God. Moses was able to hear God's voice because of the time he spent with God. Daily walking with God builds intimacy-intimacy makes it easy to hear and recognize His voice.If we love someone, we honor them and spend time with them and know them....we know their voice even when we can't see them.
Listen carefully, are you hearing God's voice?
You came near and stood at the foot of the mountain while it blazed with fire to the very heavens, with black clouds and deep darkness. Then the Lord spoke to you out of the fire. You heard the sound of words but saw no form; there was only a voice. Deuteronomy 4:11-12
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Front row seat
Last night my husband and I went to see a variety show at The Rockbox Theater in Fredericksburg, Texas. It is super entertainment and the cast/operators are a class act!
It was a last minute thought but since we go there often, we are usually able to purchase "good seats." I proceeded to purchase our tickets when she told me "Row N." "Row N," I replied, and after some begging to no avail, I left empty handed.
My husband and I then went to a movie and I struggled with still wanting to go to the variety show, I finally broke and told him " Oh just go get those tickets. Please call them now and tell them we'll take Row N if they are still available.
You see, there was a special guest that we hadn't seen in years and I really wanted to see him- even if it was from Row N even if it was 6 rows from the back. My husband returned from the lobby and said "Ok, I got the tickets." with that, we relaxed and watched our movie.
We arrived a little early so my husband and I chatted in our vehicle. I talked about how I was just grateful I would see the show. We saw a sold out crowd enter in the theater with the same purpose....they all wanted to see the much loved special guest.
We walked in and the usher was advising the lady in front of us as to where Row N was. She said " see the row with the shadow up there, it's the one behind that," I told my husband
"yay-we're in the shadows." as I turned to head upwards, my husband gently took my arm and led me down the stairs. "What." downstairs. We traveled all the way to the front. Front row seats!
My husband said when he called, the cashier told him that someone had JUST called in sick and returned those tickets. wow! I sat there beaming as I enjoyed impersonations of Elvis, Sonny and Cher, Willy Nelson and many more. But the highlight was when the special guest shared his faith and sang His Eye is in the Sparrow!
I loved my front row seat although I have to say that I wanted to see the show so badly that I would have sat in the shadows. There was a lady in the Bible that had lived with an affliction for twelve years. When she heard about Jesus, she did not complain about being in the back, her faith said "if I just touch his clothes, I will be healed." So many times we want just the perfect angle, the perfect scenario, the perfect place in our life. This woman knew the answer.What about you? Are you of such faith, or are you still waiting for a front row seat?
A large crowd followed and pressed around him. And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, because she thought "if I just touch his clothes, I will be healed." immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering. Mark 5:24-30
Rockbox Theatre is a family friendly place owned by people who love the Lord!
It was a last minute thought but since we go there often, we are usually able to purchase "good seats." I proceeded to purchase our tickets when she told me "Row N." "Row N," I replied, and after some begging to no avail, I left empty handed.
My husband and I then went to a movie and I struggled with still wanting to go to the variety show, I finally broke and told him " Oh just go get those tickets. Please call them now and tell them we'll take Row N if they are still available.
You see, there was a special guest that we hadn't seen in years and I really wanted to see him- even if it was from Row N even if it was 6 rows from the back. My husband returned from the lobby and said "Ok, I got the tickets." with that, we relaxed and watched our movie.
We arrived a little early so my husband and I chatted in our vehicle. I talked about how I was just grateful I would see the show. We saw a sold out crowd enter in the theater with the same purpose....they all wanted to see the much loved special guest.
We walked in and the usher was advising the lady in front of us as to where Row N was. She said " see the row with the shadow up there, it's the one behind that," I told my husband
"yay-we're in the shadows." as I turned to head upwards, my husband gently took my arm and led me down the stairs. "What." downstairs. We traveled all the way to the front. Front row seats!
My husband said when he called, the cashier told him that someone had JUST called in sick and returned those tickets. wow! I sat there beaming as I enjoyed impersonations of Elvis, Sonny and Cher, Willy Nelson and many more. But the highlight was when the special guest shared his faith and sang His Eye is in the Sparrow!
I loved my front row seat although I have to say that I wanted to see the show so badly that I would have sat in the shadows. There was a lady in the Bible that had lived with an affliction for twelve years. When she heard about Jesus, she did not complain about being in the back, her faith said "if I just touch his clothes, I will be healed." So many times we want just the perfect angle, the perfect scenario, the perfect place in our life. This woman knew the answer.What about you? Are you of such faith, or are you still waiting for a front row seat?
A large crowd followed and pressed around him. And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, because she thought "if I just touch his clothes, I will be healed." immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering. Mark 5:24-30
Rockbox Theatre is a family friendly place owned by people who love the Lord!
Friday, February 17, 2012
The Promised Land
This morning I was reading Deuteronomy in preparation for teaching and I read the end of the book. I cried when I read the part detailing how Moses was not allowed to cross into the Promised Land.
Obedience comes with a price. There is nothing easy about it. As a dear friend used to say "If it was easy, anybody could do it!" Obedience usually calls us out of our comfort zone, it usually pushes us our of our safety zone, it sends us to the place we are not familiar with and then it leaves us to totally rely on God.
Sometimes it is not fun, it is not secure but it is real...and so is our God. That's why we can travel the road of obedience. Sometimes we fail in our walk and have to face the consequences but we believe our God, sometimes we lose faith in mankind or friends but we believe our God, sometimes we feel completely lost but we believe our God...that is what gets us through.
We have a choice, we can chose to believe God's promises and pursue righteousness and obedience or we can give up and choose our own way. Speaking from experience, I can tell you that today, I live a precious, protected, vibrant life as a result of choosing obedience. I could not see it at the time. When we are fragile, we don't see any good options, but when we turn it over to God and we depend on him to guide us one second at a time; one minute at a time; one hour at a time; He will strengthen us and honor that obedience.
I choose obedience because I want to see that Promised Land!
Then the Lord said to him [Moses], "This is the land I promised an oath to Abraham, Isaac and Jacov when I said, 'I will give it to your descendants.' I have let you see it with your eyes, but you will not cross over into it. Deuteronomy 34:4
Obedience comes with a price. There is nothing easy about it. As a dear friend used to say "If it was easy, anybody could do it!" Obedience usually calls us out of our comfort zone, it usually pushes us our of our safety zone, it sends us to the place we are not familiar with and then it leaves us to totally rely on God.
Sometimes it is not fun, it is not secure but it is real...and so is our God. That's why we can travel the road of obedience. Sometimes we fail in our walk and have to face the consequences but we believe our God, sometimes we lose faith in mankind or friends but we believe our God, sometimes we feel completely lost but we believe our God...that is what gets us through.
We have a choice, we can chose to believe God's promises and pursue righteousness and obedience or we can give up and choose our own way. Speaking from experience, I can tell you that today, I live a precious, protected, vibrant life as a result of choosing obedience. I could not see it at the time. When we are fragile, we don't see any good options, but when we turn it over to God and we depend on him to guide us one second at a time; one minute at a time; one hour at a time; He will strengthen us and honor that obedience.
I choose obedience because I want to see that Promised Land!
Then the Lord said to him [Moses], "This is the land I promised an oath to Abraham, Isaac and Jacov when I said, 'I will give it to your descendants.' I have let you see it with your eyes, but you will not cross over into it. Deuteronomy 34:4
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Am I Second?
Today as I was driving home from the Academy, I was listening to a local radio station KHCB. It is a radio station that my father listens to daily and I find that I like alot of the programming.
Today however, they got on a kick of "I am Second." Pardon my ignorance but when ever I saw that on facebook, I thought it had something to do with my church. I would briefly skim some of the stories that came across facebook....no I never read Josh Hamilton's or Scott Hamilton's story, that would have been a dead give away. I never really knew what it was about. In fact, thinking it had to do with my church, I wondered how our church chose these individuals to "give their story."
Today KHCB introduced a man by the name of Brian Welch. He was a band member of the group KORN. While I never listened to that group, I gathered it was some sort of heavy metal. Mr. Welch's story of forgiveness and redemption brought me to tears. Following him was Michael W. Smith. Mr. Smith is a Contemporary Christian singer and song writer. His story also impacted me deeply.
As I listened intently, I realized that my story is also as impacting and I thank God that He brought me through. Redemption is freedom! However, I analyzed my walk and a favorite verse came to mind. I do not know if I am Second uses this verse, but it rang true for me. It speaks of me decreasing so that He can increase.
Analyze that....I can't be first! If I am going to follow Christ, if I am going to put him first, then I can not keep getting ahead of Him. I must sit back and allow me to decrease, shrink, minimize so that He can shine through.
I have to ask myself, "Have I put God first? Am I second?"
I guess in today's "technology terms" that would look like this...HE> ME< He must become greater; I must become less. John 3:30
As a side note I must add this:
Today, I went to my usual Thursday morning Bible Study-Designer Woman. A lady by the name of Elaine Hastings was going to be speaking on "Prayer Whispers." I knew the class would be on prayer but I did not know what direction she would be taking. I have to admit, she was phenomenal. I had just come in from a wonderful "Spiritual Gifts" taught by Ms. Betty Carpenter last week and frankly, I was "still full" from that lesson.
As I sat there and listened, Elaine captivated me with her knowledge of the Bible. It was so obvious to me that God had prepared this lady for today. It is always a good lesson when God convicts me in a specific area. She spoke of praying because "God commands us to." What a concept.
Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication ACTS....Thank you ladies for wonderful lessons and thank you Ms. Dottie for trusting God!
Today however, they got on a kick of "I am Second." Pardon my ignorance but when ever I saw that on facebook, I thought it had something to do with my church. I would briefly skim some of the stories that came across facebook....no I never read Josh Hamilton's or Scott Hamilton's story, that would have been a dead give away. I never really knew what it was about. In fact, thinking it had to do with my church, I wondered how our church chose these individuals to "give their story."
Today KHCB introduced a man by the name of Brian Welch. He was a band member of the group KORN. While I never listened to that group, I gathered it was some sort of heavy metal. Mr. Welch's story of forgiveness and redemption brought me to tears. Following him was Michael W. Smith. Mr. Smith is a Contemporary Christian singer and song writer. His story also impacted me deeply.
As I listened intently, I realized that my story is also as impacting and I thank God that He brought me through. Redemption is freedom! However, I analyzed my walk and a favorite verse came to mind. I do not know if I am Second uses this verse, but it rang true for me. It speaks of me decreasing so that He can increase.
Analyze that....I can't be first! If I am going to follow Christ, if I am going to put him first, then I can not keep getting ahead of Him. I must sit back and allow me to decrease, shrink, minimize so that He can shine through.
I have to ask myself, "Have I put God first? Am I second?"
I guess in today's "technology terms" that would look like this...HE> ME< He must become greater; I must become less. John 3:30
As a side note I must add this:
Today, I went to my usual Thursday morning Bible Study-Designer Woman. A lady by the name of Elaine Hastings was going to be speaking on "Prayer Whispers." I knew the class would be on prayer but I did not know what direction she would be taking. I have to admit, she was phenomenal. I had just come in from a wonderful "Spiritual Gifts" taught by Ms. Betty Carpenter last week and frankly, I was "still full" from that lesson.
As I sat there and listened, Elaine captivated me with her knowledge of the Bible. It was so obvious to me that God had prepared this lady for today. It is always a good lesson when God convicts me in a specific area. She spoke of praying because "God commands us to." What a concept.
Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication ACTS....Thank you ladies for wonderful lessons and thank you Ms. Dottie for trusting God!
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Undivided Heart
A friend shared an idea she found at Pinterest and I decided to try it. The idea is you draw the outline of a heart, then you fill it in with what occupies it. I got two index cards and gave one to my husband. I told him the idea and then we went off into our own corners to complete our project.
When we met back up, the comparision was neat and fun to do as a couple. I reviewed my heart over and over. It was filled with things like: Learning, teaching, pets, kids, desserts, friends, boat, beaches, and much more. I used every single inch of the heart.
At the center I had drawn another heart and it simply said "God." You see, I believe that if I have a heart for God, it must be an undivided heart. It can not compete with the things I had listed. It must be a heart completely dedicated to serving and loving God.
I sat back and looked at the finished product and I liked it. Today is Valentines Day. Whether you are single or in a relationship, I want to tell you...you are loved. You are loved by the one who gave His life for you. Won't you give Him an undivided heart?
Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. I will praise you , O Lord my God with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. For great is your love for me. Psalms 86:11-13
When we met back up, the comparision was neat and fun to do as a couple. I reviewed my heart over and over. It was filled with things like: Learning, teaching, pets, kids, desserts, friends, boat, beaches, and much more. I used every single inch of the heart.
At the center I had drawn another heart and it simply said "God." You see, I believe that if I have a heart for God, it must be an undivided heart. It can not compete with the things I had listed. It must be a heart completely dedicated to serving and loving God.
I sat back and looked at the finished product and I liked it. Today is Valentines Day. Whether you are single or in a relationship, I want to tell you...you are loved. You are loved by the one who gave His life for you. Won't you give Him an undivided heart?
Teach me your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. I will praise you , O Lord my God with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. For great is your love for me. Psalms 86:11-13
Monday, February 13, 2012
True colors
This morning there was some urgency to my step as I prepared to take my mom to the medical center. I woke up extra early in order to have time to pick her up and drive her. It was not my usual "leisurely" morning. I poured my coffee, flavored it up and put it down as I got busy with the things of the morning.
I went to my son's room to wake him then returned to my bedroom. As I walked into my bedroom, I began looking for my coffee cup. I thought to myself "Now where did I put it down?" I saw my black DPS cup, my black HPD cup but no black "counter cultural" cup. I was stumped thinking "I know I put that black cup in here somewhere."
Then it hit me. At the beginning of this series Counter Cultural Happiness, our pastor introduced some items we could purchase from our book store. They included a "counter cultural" coffee mug that was temperature sensitive. When the cup was empty and at normal or cool temperature, the cup remained black. When a hot material like coffee is poured into the cup, the cup turns white.
I was looking for a black cup. My cup had turned white and blended into the rest of the surroundings where I had placed it. In other words, it got lost in the atmosphere. When the cup was placed with other black mugs, the change was clear to see but when I placed it in an open area, it was more difficult to locate.
We will not always be in Christian surroundings. Our careers, family associations or social groups may take us out of that element. It is important for us to remember that even when the heat is turned up, we will demonstrate that we are not "like all the others" and regardless of where situations take us, we will not succumb to the social culture but resort to our faith and foundation. We are to be the light of the world...different!
You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5: 14-16
I went to my son's room to wake him then returned to my bedroom. As I walked into my bedroom, I began looking for my coffee cup. I thought to myself "Now where did I put it down?" I saw my black DPS cup, my black HPD cup but no black "counter cultural" cup. I was stumped thinking "I know I put that black cup in here somewhere."
Then it hit me. At the beginning of this series Counter Cultural Happiness, our pastor introduced some items we could purchase from our book store. They included a "counter cultural" coffee mug that was temperature sensitive. When the cup was empty and at normal or cool temperature, the cup remained black. When a hot material like coffee is poured into the cup, the cup turns white.
I was looking for a black cup. My cup had turned white and blended into the rest of the surroundings where I had placed it. In other words, it got lost in the atmosphere. When the cup was placed with other black mugs, the change was clear to see but when I placed it in an open area, it was more difficult to locate.
We will not always be in Christian surroundings. Our careers, family associations or social groups may take us out of that element. It is important for us to remember that even when the heat is turned up, we will demonstrate that we are not "like all the others" and regardless of where situations take us, we will not succumb to the social culture but resort to our faith and foundation. We are to be the light of the world...different!
You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. Matthew 5: 14-16
Sunday, February 12, 2012
In step
This afternoon I went to visit my father-in-law. We sat and chatted for a while about various things. I then left my husband to talk with him as I was on a mission. I was looking for a box that would accomodate a project I am working on for Thursday.
I then got him set up with his medication and cleaned a little. Again, I sat and chatted with him. He is a writer and has written several poems composing two books beginning four years ago when my mother-in-law passed away. He loves to write and he loves to talk. He told us of several cousins that he knows are still alive in Salado, Tx that he wanted to go visit. Unfortunately, technology allowed us to see that they have all gone on. My father-in-law is that last of that generation.
We make every effort to go there a couple of times a week. Why do we find it so difficult to get there? He lives less than 5 miles from our house. Housework, obligations, extended family, other aging parents, careers, all keep us from stopping and visiting. He just longs to be with us. He has other friends that visit. Many are just around the corner in the neighborhood but it's not like a son or daughter visiting.
It made me think how similar that is with God. He longs to get a visit from us. He longs to hear from us, he desires that we connect with him...he just wants us to visit more than once or twice a week and yet, we are too busy, too tired, to overcommitted and there just isn't time.
As we left my father-in-law, I know he wondered when we would make it back. I walk out of his house and I jog to my vehicle because it was cold. My husband follows and then I hear it...the shuffling of the soft mocassins trying to catch up with us. It makes me stop in my tracks as this thought enters my mind:
His Steps First....that's what this blog is about-FOLLOWING God and yet we often get ahead of him, sometimes running. I heard the soft shuffle of the feet of a 97 year old man, trying to catch up and it impacted me. I wondered, "do I follow" or does God long for me to slow down.
I want to follow God. I don't want to hear the shuffle of feet because I am not in step with God. I want to walk in the steps he has prepared for me.
Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven. The Lord will indeed give what is good, and our land will yield its harvest. Righteousness goes before him and prepares the way for his steps. Psalm 85:11-13
I then got him set up with his medication and cleaned a little. Again, I sat and chatted with him. He is a writer and has written several poems composing two books beginning four years ago when my mother-in-law passed away. He loves to write and he loves to talk. He told us of several cousins that he knows are still alive in Salado, Tx that he wanted to go visit. Unfortunately, technology allowed us to see that they have all gone on. My father-in-law is that last of that generation.
We make every effort to go there a couple of times a week. Why do we find it so difficult to get there? He lives less than 5 miles from our house. Housework, obligations, extended family, other aging parents, careers, all keep us from stopping and visiting. He just longs to be with us. He has other friends that visit. Many are just around the corner in the neighborhood but it's not like a son or daughter visiting.
It made me think how similar that is with God. He longs to get a visit from us. He longs to hear from us, he desires that we connect with him...he just wants us to visit more than once or twice a week and yet, we are too busy, too tired, to overcommitted and there just isn't time.
As we left my father-in-law, I know he wondered when we would make it back. I walk out of his house and I jog to my vehicle because it was cold. My husband follows and then I hear it...the shuffling of the soft mocassins trying to catch up with us. It makes me stop in my tracks as this thought enters my mind:
His Steps First....that's what this blog is about-FOLLOWING God and yet we often get ahead of him, sometimes running. I heard the soft shuffle of the feet of a 97 year old man, trying to catch up and it impacted me. I wondered, "do I follow" or does God long for me to slow down.
I want to follow God. I don't want to hear the shuffle of feet because I am not in step with God. I want to walk in the steps he has prepared for me.
Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven. The Lord will indeed give what is good, and our land will yield its harvest. Righteousness goes before him and prepares the way for his steps. Psalm 85:11-13
Friday, February 10, 2012
Self Help
The other day I went to one of my favorite stores in Humble. A lady in my Bible Study class had recommended a novel and I went in search of it at a local bookstore. Once I located it, I wandered around looking to see what else I could put in my basket.
I don't have a whole bunch of time to read right now, but I do have a whole lot of material to read. I had a specific topic in mind-one to support a class I am currently teaching so I headed to the "self help" section. At one point I saw the same books or I should say a few copies of the same books.
I continued looking and observed fifteen copies of the same book! It made me wonder..."So did the book help?" You see, I do not throw books away and I rarely give my books away. I will often purchase several copies of a good book to give away if I like them that much. I often share books expecting to get them back and have always gotten them back but this was a self help book. So my question was "did the book work so well that people wanted to share them by selling them back or was the book a total flop and everybody sold them back for pennies on the dollar."
My self help book contains 66 books within a book. It gives me direction, guidance and counsel. I would not give that book away and I can assure you, you would not see it on a bookstore shelf. Looking for direction? Try God's Word.
See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. Colossians 2:8
I don't have a whole bunch of time to read right now, but I do have a whole lot of material to read. I had a specific topic in mind-one to support a class I am currently teaching so I headed to the "self help" section. At one point I saw the same books or I should say a few copies of the same books.
I continued looking and observed fifteen copies of the same book! It made me wonder..."So did the book help?" You see, I do not throw books away and I rarely give my books away. I will often purchase several copies of a good book to give away if I like them that much. I often share books expecting to get them back and have always gotten them back but this was a self help book. So my question was "did the book work so well that people wanted to share them by selling them back or was the book a total flop and everybody sold them back for pennies on the dollar."
My self help book contains 66 books within a book. It gives me direction, guidance and counsel. I would not give that book away and I can assure you, you would not see it on a bookstore shelf. Looking for direction? Try God's Word.
See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. Colossians 2:8
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Give it your best shot
The time has come. As part of my training, I still have to qualify and demonstrate proficiency with my weapon. This year I am very apprehensive since I took a nasty cut to my dominant hand, cutting through to the tendon. Not being certain of complete healing or potential reprocussions, I went to practice today.
I was prepared. I walked in, put on my eye and ear protection and proceed to "take my best shot." About ten minutes into it, five men walked in. Two took their place to my left, three to my right. Being in my own stall, I was not phased. I was concentrating on my target and could not tell you how old they were, how they were dressed or anything else about them. They in turn could not see my face as I was deep in the stall.
Even with ear protection I could hear their conversations. I continued to hit my target and then I heard them in action. The three fellas to my right started laughing and criticizing their friend who hit every shot outside the X ring and on the outer boundaries. All the targets were aligned in the range for everyone else to see and since only one could shoot at a time, the other two were just watching. It did not affect me until one of the friends spoke in spanish and said "The old lady shot better than you!" Laughter broke out but I maintained my position and continued proving the friend right.
As they broke out in laughter, I thought to myself "I can assure you I am anything but an old lady!" Then I asked myself "Why does it matter?" God created me and whether I am young or old, he has a purpose for me. He used Sarah when she was and "old lady" to have Abraham's heir, Isaac [Genesis 18:11] and He used Elizabeth when she was an "old lady" to have John the Baptist [Luke 1:7]. God had a purpose for me when I was 20 and He still has a purpose for me now. So you want to call me an old lady, I say "give it your best shot" because for some of us, that's when life begins!
Likewise teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine. but to teach what is good. They they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God. Titus 2:3-4
I was prepared. I walked in, put on my eye and ear protection and proceed to "take my best shot." About ten minutes into it, five men walked in. Two took their place to my left, three to my right. Being in my own stall, I was not phased. I was concentrating on my target and could not tell you how old they were, how they were dressed or anything else about them. They in turn could not see my face as I was deep in the stall.
Even with ear protection I could hear their conversations. I continued to hit my target and then I heard them in action. The three fellas to my right started laughing and criticizing their friend who hit every shot outside the X ring and on the outer boundaries. All the targets were aligned in the range for everyone else to see and since only one could shoot at a time, the other two were just watching. It did not affect me until one of the friends spoke in spanish and said "The old lady shot better than you!" Laughter broke out but I maintained my position and continued proving the friend right.
As they broke out in laughter, I thought to myself "I can assure you I am anything but an old lady!" Then I asked myself "Why does it matter?" God created me and whether I am young or old, he has a purpose for me. He used Sarah when she was and "old lady" to have Abraham's heir, Isaac [Genesis 18:11] and He used Elizabeth when she was an "old lady" to have John the Baptist [Luke 1:7]. God had a purpose for me when I was 20 and He still has a purpose for me now. So you want to call me an old lady, I say "give it your best shot" because for some of us, that's when life begins!
Likewise teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine. but to teach what is good. They they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God. Titus 2:3-4
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
I am not ashamed
Our choir at our church sings a song titled "I am not ashamed of the Gospel". The soloist delivers it with passion and conviction. This morning my devotion was on Romans 1:16, it is a verse that I learned early in my life with Christ. When we learned this song, it quickly became one of my favorites. As I write, I am inspired by the words of the song playing in the background.
Everytime I read it, it speaks to me with authority. We sell what we believe in. If we believe in a product, we try to sell it to others. I don't literally mean sell, I mean sell as in "share the find" or promote. "Try this product it's awesome." or "I can not do without this brand-it's the best." Yet when it comes to our faith and belief, it can be a little harder to "sell." Why is that? Are we afraid that someone might criticize us? Do we fear standing out, standing alone?
Christ did not hesitate to take that walk, he did not hesitate to show His love for us. He was mocked, beaten, criticized and still He took that walk for you...for me.
While I love the portion of this verse that says "I am not ashamed of the gospel" the more important part of this verse to me is what follows "...because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes."
The gospel is the power of God for salvation to all who believe...but how can they know if I don't share and how can I share if I am afraid or ashamed to speak out? Our bible study lesson this week was on being different. What will you do to demonstrate how you are different? Are you ready to take a stand? Are you ready to say "I am not ashamed of the gospel?"
I am not ashamed of the gospel because it is the power of God for salvation of everyone who believes both the Jew and the Gentile. Romans 1:16
Everytime I read it, it speaks to me with authority. We sell what we believe in. If we believe in a product, we try to sell it to others. I don't literally mean sell, I mean sell as in "share the find" or promote. "Try this product it's awesome." or "I can not do without this brand-it's the best." Yet when it comes to our faith and belief, it can be a little harder to "sell." Why is that? Are we afraid that someone might criticize us? Do we fear standing out, standing alone?
Christ did not hesitate to take that walk, he did not hesitate to show His love for us. He was mocked, beaten, criticized and still He took that walk for you...for me.
While I love the portion of this verse that says "I am not ashamed of the gospel" the more important part of this verse to me is what follows "...because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes."
The gospel is the power of God for salvation to all who believe...but how can they know if I don't share and how can I share if I am afraid or ashamed to speak out? Our bible study lesson this week was on being different. What will you do to demonstrate how you are different? Are you ready to take a stand? Are you ready to say "I am not ashamed of the gospel?"
I am not ashamed of the gospel because it is the power of God for salvation of everyone who believes both the Jew and the Gentile. Romans 1:16
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Celebrate your birthday
Yesterday was my birthday. We have a "tradition" in our family where it is your birthday from the actual day until the end of the month. It's a winning deal for me but since my son's birthday is the 28th of February, not so much.
For years, I have always "shared" my birthday with that of Ronald Regan. Everytime someone mentioned my birthday, I would say "Ronald Reagan was born today also." Unfortunately, yesterday was not a happy day. We lost several family members and friends in 2011 and most of them fell on a family member's birthday or close to it. I have now joined that group.
Several years ago, my son lost his precious papa two days before his birthday....something he will never forget. Yesterday, instead of celebrating life, I was celebrating new life. You see, a matriarch of my childhood community passed away. As I sang at her funeral service last night, it was a celebration of her eternal life. A life that is just beginning and will never end.
She was known for her love of missions. A modest woman and single mother, had a love for Christ and her five boys. She was widowed when her boys were very small and yet she continued the path God had laid out for her. Week after week, she could be seen raising money for missions and serving in her church. She was lovingly referred to as one of the three "Golden Ladies" of the church.
There was standing room only last night and the attendees poured into the foyer. I saw many individuals that were impacted by her obvious love for God and many individuals that she had lifted in prayer for many, many years. As I look back on the legacy that she left, I believe her memory will live for ever and those of us fortunate to have known her rejoice that true life is just beginning.
Happy Birthday to me and Happy Birthday to my beloved sister in Christ. A birthday celebration indeed.
Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life. Revelation 2:10
In Memory of Mrs. Virginia Basquez 1923-2012
For years, I have always "shared" my birthday with that of Ronald Regan. Everytime someone mentioned my birthday, I would say "Ronald Reagan was born today also." Unfortunately, yesterday was not a happy day. We lost several family members and friends in 2011 and most of them fell on a family member's birthday or close to it. I have now joined that group.
Several years ago, my son lost his precious papa two days before his birthday....something he will never forget. Yesterday, instead of celebrating life, I was celebrating new life. You see, a matriarch of my childhood community passed away. As I sang at her funeral service last night, it was a celebration of her eternal life. A life that is just beginning and will never end.
She was known for her love of missions. A modest woman and single mother, had a love for Christ and her five boys. She was widowed when her boys were very small and yet she continued the path God had laid out for her. Week after week, she could be seen raising money for missions and serving in her church. She was lovingly referred to as one of the three "Golden Ladies" of the church.
There was standing room only last night and the attendees poured into the foyer. I saw many individuals that were impacted by her obvious love for God and many individuals that she had lifted in prayer for many, many years. As I look back on the legacy that she left, I believe her memory will live for ever and those of us fortunate to have known her rejoice that true life is just beginning.
Happy Birthday to me and Happy Birthday to my beloved sister in Christ. A birthday celebration indeed.
Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life. Revelation 2:10
In Memory of Mrs. Virginia Basquez 1923-2012
Monday, February 6, 2012
You can't take it
This weekend I woke up on a mission. I decided that I wanted to memorize Psalm 1:1. Don't ask me why, I don't know. I just decided I wanted to know it.
A few years ago, a very dear friend of mine came up to me at the workplace and asked "Hey, what does Psalm 1:1 say?" I didn't know. I had to look it up. I knew that he came to me because I had established my position as a Christian and he thought since I would quote scripture, I knew the entire Bible.
While it may not be necessary to memorize the entire Bible, on of my favorite verses is Joshua 1:8 "Do not let this book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night." I think of the dark worlds that do not have access to the Word of God and I am thankful that I live in a free country. In a day and time when so many concern themselves with their "rights" I have the priviledge to open my Bible and read it anywhere, anytime.
I woke up and immediately began writing Psalm 1:1. Those who know me know that I keep my stash of 3 X 5 cards for times like this. I must have written that verse twenty times...until I learned it by heart.
The day may come when my freedom is taken away, but you can never take what is in my heart or mind. Learn the Word of God so that no one can take it away from you.
Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, stand in the way of sinners, or sit at the seat of mockers but whose delight is in the Law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. Psalm 1:1
A few years ago, a very dear friend of mine came up to me at the workplace and asked "Hey, what does Psalm 1:1 say?" I didn't know. I had to look it up. I knew that he came to me because I had established my position as a Christian and he thought since I would quote scripture, I knew the entire Bible.
While it may not be necessary to memorize the entire Bible, on of my favorite verses is Joshua 1:8 "Do not let this book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night." I think of the dark worlds that do not have access to the Word of God and I am thankful that I live in a free country. In a day and time when so many concern themselves with their "rights" I have the priviledge to open my Bible and read it anywhere, anytime.
I woke up and immediately began writing Psalm 1:1. Those who know me know that I keep my stash of 3 X 5 cards for times like this. I must have written that verse twenty times...until I learned it by heart.
The day may come when my freedom is taken away, but you can never take what is in my heart or mind. Learn the Word of God so that no one can take it away from you.
Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, stand in the way of sinners, or sit at the seat of mockers but whose delight is in the Law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. Psalm 1:1
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Beyond Belief
I received a text yesterday from my son. It simply read "Josh Hamilton relapsed." Josh Hamilton is an outfielder with the Major League Baseball team Texas Rangers. This hit close to home because I am a huge fan.
On a trip to Dallas a while back, I purchased tickets to see the Rangers and my son commented on how the score didn't matter as long as I got to see Hamilton play. Due to unfortunate circumstances, Hamilton, once dubbed The Natural, fell to addictions that overtook his life. His career in baseball was all but lost. His choices left him out of baseball, out of touch with his family and out of the will of God.
Thanks to a God-Loving grandmother and God's grace, Hamilton returned to a life with Christ in 2005. He got a second chance in his career and eventually landed with the Texas Rangers. His career skyrocketed and his life with Christ restored his relationships. He wrote a book titled Beyond Belief.
On the eve of Josh Hamilton speaking to a group of men at an event sponsored by a local radio station, the news of his relapse was released. The enemy works like that. He will do anything to steal God's glory.
In response to my son, I simply wrote this "I know honey. The world has a strong pull. Just remember to pray for him and not join in criticizing him. I prayed for him this morning. Remember, 'Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Ephesians 6:10'".
Yes, Josh Hamilton wrote a book and several years later, it is beyond belief how much our Lord and Savior loves us....enough to continuously take us back.
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23
Beyond Belief: Finding the Strength to Come Back-Josh Hamilton
On a trip to Dallas a while back, I purchased tickets to see the Rangers and my son commented on how the score didn't matter as long as I got to see Hamilton play. Due to unfortunate circumstances, Hamilton, once dubbed The Natural, fell to addictions that overtook his life. His career in baseball was all but lost. His choices left him out of baseball, out of touch with his family and out of the will of God.
Thanks to a God-Loving grandmother and God's grace, Hamilton returned to a life with Christ in 2005. He got a second chance in his career and eventually landed with the Texas Rangers. His career skyrocketed and his life with Christ restored his relationships. He wrote a book titled Beyond Belief.
On the eve of Josh Hamilton speaking to a group of men at an event sponsored by a local radio station, the news of his relapse was released. The enemy works like that. He will do anything to steal God's glory.
In response to my son, I simply wrote this "I know honey. The world has a strong pull. Just remember to pray for him and not join in criticizing him. I prayed for him this morning. Remember, 'Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Ephesians 6:10'".
Yes, Josh Hamilton wrote a book and several years later, it is beyond belief how much our Lord and Savior loves us....enough to continuously take us back.
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23
Beyond Belief: Finding the Strength to Come Back-Josh Hamilton
Friday, February 3, 2012
The Liar
Yesterday I went to my Thursday morning Bible Study Class. I was setting up my table when a lady came to me and handed me a card. Being that my birthday is soon, I thought it was a birthday card so I tucked it in my binder and continued to prepare for class.
When I opened the card, it was not a birthday card. In fact, it was a blank card that she had written herself. The letter began "Dee, this is a prayer for you..." She then proceeded to write a prayer for me and I loved it! I particularly like this line I pray she not listen to the enemy, because he is a liar.
The prayer is what I call "scripture prayer" where every line comes from scripture. It really touched me that she would think of me. The premise of the prayer was for support as I teach class this week.
One thing I have discovered in my life, my occupation, my family, is that people do not like change! Many of us want things status quo, no interruptions, no new rules, don't want to change things...leave well enough alone. Yet God calls us to be something more. He wants us stand out and be different! The prayer was right on track as this may be a tough lesson to teach because people like fitting in rather than being different.
Sometimes, the enemy will portray our options in a way that is enticing and pleasing to the eye just like he did at the Garden of Eden. The reality is regardless of how good the option looks, the enemy is a liar. The optical illusion of of a beautiful woman changes to display the word "liar" when you turn it on its side. So it is with the enemy when you fall for his tricks. He stops at nothing even tempting Jesus himself [Luke 4].
My prayer is that I will remember that the enemy will try to attack, manipulate, and distort what God has planned. However, in the end, he is still a liar and has no power against Almighty God.
Jesus said to them, "If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and now am here. I have not come on my own; but He sent me. Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
John 8:42-44
Thank you Darlene Spivey for your prayer.
When I opened the card, it was not a birthday card. In fact, it was a blank card that she had written herself. The letter began "Dee, this is a prayer for you..." She then proceeded to write a prayer for me and I loved it! I particularly like this line I pray she not listen to the enemy, because he is a liar.
The prayer is what I call "scripture prayer" where every line comes from scripture. It really touched me that she would think of me. The premise of the prayer was for support as I teach class this week.
One thing I have discovered in my life, my occupation, my family, is that people do not like change! Many of us want things status quo, no interruptions, no new rules, don't want to change things...leave well enough alone. Yet God calls us to be something more. He wants us stand out and be different! The prayer was right on track as this may be a tough lesson to teach because people like fitting in rather than being different.
Sometimes, the enemy will portray our options in a way that is enticing and pleasing to the eye just like he did at the Garden of Eden. The reality is regardless of how good the option looks, the enemy is a liar. The optical illusion of of a beautiful woman changes to display the word "liar" when you turn it on its side. So it is with the enemy when you fall for his tricks. He stops at nothing even tempting Jesus himself [Luke 4].
My prayer is that I will remember that the enemy will try to attack, manipulate, and distort what God has planned. However, in the end, he is still a liar and has no power against Almighty God.
Jesus said to them, "If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and now am here. I have not come on my own; but He sent me. Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desire. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
John 8:42-44
Thank you Darlene Spivey for your prayer.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Hoarder
Okay-it's official I'm a hoarder. I picked up my Bible yesterday and realized it is about three times thicker than the binding permits so...I decided I'd go through it and see if there was anything I just "couldn't do without."
The important stuff is adhered to the inside binder like a penny used in a lesson and my son's picture. As I open it, there is a napkin with the names of three ladies I met at church in Fredericksburg and a bulletin from the last service we attended there. I found a prayer request from my friend Jo from 2007-that's to continue to remind me to pray for her daughter, son-in-law and grandson [she now has two].
I love to write special verses on index cards and I now have over 30 in my Bible. There is a "collision group" handout from lending my son my Bible for collision groups a couple of weeks ago. oops, another napkin with a song written on it and an advertisement for "Skinny Cow" ice cream that was given to me by a lady at church who thought it might be useful in a lesson I was preparing. Someone else gave me a "Dear Abby" article related to proper dress, again, an article for possible use in a lesson.
I found a three page handout from a Bible Study lesson on Romans from Fredericksburg, a page from one of my journals with Numbers 14:3 and some notes, a devotion from Charles Swindol titled Tough Spots, a photograph of me with my husband, some business cards and more index cards with quotes from my pastor, a bookmark from the Bible Study class RX for Life, last week's prayer request list from my bible study class Seekers, numerous post it notes, a fortune from a fortune cookie that reads "Talents that are not shared are not talents" again, a lesson. I could go on and on.
I also found two purple pens [my favorite color and the only color I use in my Bible]. That can not be good for the binding as it pulls it open. And what would my Bible be without a Kleenex?
Yes, I'm afraid I would classify myself as a Bible Hoarder. Much too soon I will need a new one again as the maps have detached from this one, the binding is stretched and pages are starting to pull apart. That is not good news for me as I am a creature of habit and love going right to the verse I am looking for. Perhaps I should prepare myself to let go of this one and begin anew. Not a pleasant thought as I still often refer to the Bible I carried prior to this one for scripture and notes. Now I will have two Bibles to refer back to. My question now is "do I transfer the things to my new Bible?" or do I start all over again?
How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:9-11
The important stuff is adhered to the inside binder like a penny used in a lesson and my son's picture. As I open it, there is a napkin with the names of three ladies I met at church in Fredericksburg and a bulletin from the last service we attended there. I found a prayer request from my friend Jo from 2007-that's to continue to remind me to pray for her daughter, son-in-law and grandson [she now has two].
I love to write special verses on index cards and I now have over 30 in my Bible. There is a "collision group" handout from lending my son my Bible for collision groups a couple of weeks ago. oops, another napkin with a song written on it and an advertisement for "Skinny Cow" ice cream that was given to me by a lady at church who thought it might be useful in a lesson I was preparing. Someone else gave me a "Dear Abby" article related to proper dress, again, an article for possible use in a lesson.
I found a three page handout from a Bible Study lesson on Romans from Fredericksburg, a page from one of my journals with Numbers 14:3 and some notes, a devotion from Charles Swindol titled Tough Spots, a photograph of me with my husband, some business cards and more index cards with quotes from my pastor, a bookmark from the Bible Study class RX for Life, last week's prayer request list from my bible study class Seekers, numerous post it notes, a fortune from a fortune cookie that reads "Talents that are not shared are not talents" again, a lesson. I could go on and on.
I also found two purple pens [my favorite color and the only color I use in my Bible]. That can not be good for the binding as it pulls it open. And what would my Bible be without a Kleenex?
Yes, I'm afraid I would classify myself as a Bible Hoarder. Much too soon I will need a new one again as the maps have detached from this one, the binding is stretched and pages are starting to pull apart. That is not good news for me as I am a creature of habit and love going right to the verse I am looking for. Perhaps I should prepare myself to let go of this one and begin anew. Not a pleasant thought as I still often refer to the Bible I carried prior to this one for scripture and notes. Now I will have two Bibles to refer back to. My question now is "do I transfer the things to my new Bible?" or do I start all over again?
How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:9-11
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Why ask?
Why...that three letter word that asks a bold question. Stop and think how insulted you are when your work is questioned, a decision is questioned or your position is questioned. When we tell our child they need to do something and they respond "why?" how does that set with us?
When the Israelites were being led out of Egypt, Moses had to put up with their constant whining and complaining. In fact, when Moses spoke with God, his conversation began something like this..."Why have you brought this trouble on your servant?" [Numbers 11:11]
Why me? What have I done to displease you? Where can I get what these people want? Why, Why, Why? "I can not carry these people by myself!" Then Moses ended it with words I have shouted out many times. "...the burden is too heavy for me." [Numbers 11:14]
Sometimes, when I find my self asking why, it is in a state of deep pain or rejection. Why would a God that loves me so much let me go through this valley, why would he put such a heavy load on me? Doesn't He know that THIS burden is too heavy for me?
That's when I remember who stands with me through the tough times, who sustains me through the pain, who carries me when I can go no more. The burden is only too heavy for me when I fail to give it to him. We live in a time of economic hardships. He is with you. Lost your job? He is with you. Family struggles? He is with you. Health issues? He is with you.
While it is easy to ask why, I find my comfort in His Word. He knows your burden. Many times we do not choose the circumstances in our life and even more times, we don't understand them. I have come to know that God comforts me in those times. I do not understand the "whys" but I do know that He comforts me. I have recently experienced situations where friends are going through what I have survived. While they don't understand why, I understand.
I understand that God allowed me to pass through the experience so that He could comfort me and I in turn am able to comfort others. We can not change the valley we may have to walk through, and the burden may feel too heavy for us to carry but I have the faith that when we emerge on the other side, we will be much better for it. No need to ask why.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
When the Israelites were being led out of Egypt, Moses had to put up with their constant whining and complaining. In fact, when Moses spoke with God, his conversation began something like this..."Why have you brought this trouble on your servant?" [Numbers 11:11]
Why me? What have I done to displease you? Where can I get what these people want? Why, Why, Why? "I can not carry these people by myself!" Then Moses ended it with words I have shouted out many times. "...the burden is too heavy for me." [Numbers 11:14]
Sometimes, when I find my self asking why, it is in a state of deep pain or rejection. Why would a God that loves me so much let me go through this valley, why would he put such a heavy load on me? Doesn't He know that THIS burden is too heavy for me?
That's when I remember who stands with me through the tough times, who sustains me through the pain, who carries me when I can go no more. The burden is only too heavy for me when I fail to give it to him. We live in a time of economic hardships. He is with you. Lost your job? He is with you. Family struggles? He is with you. Health issues? He is with you.
While it is easy to ask why, I find my comfort in His Word. He knows your burden. Many times we do not choose the circumstances in our life and even more times, we don't understand them. I have come to know that God comforts me in those times. I do not understand the "whys" but I do know that He comforts me. I have recently experienced situations where friends are going through what I have survived. While they don't understand why, I understand.
I understand that God allowed me to pass through the experience so that He could comfort me and I in turn am able to comfort others. We can not change the valley we may have to walk through, and the burden may feel too heavy for us to carry but I have the faith that when we emerge on the other side, we will be much better for it. No need to ask why.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
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