We have all done it! We have all asked a question then followed it with "Answer Me!" When we don't get a response fast enough. Admit it, you've done it.
I recall my mom doing it when we were growing up and I have done it myself. Why is that? We can't wait for a response-we want it now. Why did you eat that cookie? Why did you watch that movie? Why did you lie? Sometimes our questions are endless. It is easier when we have control because we can "demand" an answer or a quick response.
As I write this I think of a friend whose daughter is head over heels for her boyfriend. They have dated a couple of years and will graduate in a few weeks. I can not imagine her boyfriend taking her to the Hobby Center to watch Cinderella and at the end of the show having the cast members call her on stage while her boyfriend, dressed as the prince, comes from behind the curtain, drops to one knee and asks "Will you marry me?" Do you think she will say "I'll let you know next week?" I doubt it.
But we may not always get instant responses...especially from God. Perhaps its been a while since you've been praying for that sick relative or that that financial problem or that nagging issue that will not go away. In 2 Corinthians 12, Paul asked God to "remove his thorn" three times and God's response was "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." [v9] That was Paul's request and one we are probably all familiar with but let's look at an example on the other side.
When Abraham was in advanced age, he sent his servant in search of a wife for Isaac. Not just any wife. A wife from his own country [not a Canaanite]. So the servant goes in search of and travels until evening. He knows it is time for the women to draw water from the well.
Then he prayed, "O Lord God of my master Abraham, give me sucess today and show kindness to my master Abraham. [Genesis 24:12] Not only does he pray that prayer but then he gets specific.
May it be that when I say to a girl "please let down your jar that I may have a drink she says, 'Drink and I'll water your camels too'-let her be the one you have chosen for your servant Isaac. By this I will know that you have shown kindness to my master." [V14]
Wow-that is specific but I like the next verse."Before he had finished praying..." Before he finished praying, God was answering the prayer as Rebekah was walking to the well. Not only giving him an answer but an answer specifically to what he had prayed as Rebekah offered him water then watered his camels.
How's that for an answer? Abraham had been faithful and honored God. God was fulfilling his promise of making Abraham the father of many nations. He would keep that going through his son Isaac. The same son Abraham was prepared to offer as a sacrifice in obedience. [Genesis 22]
When I ask myself "Why don't I get an answer?" I also have to evaluate my obedience to God. How do I handle those "You want me to do what" moments? I also have to understand that "No Answer" in my eyes may very well be God's answer.
When we get ahead of ourselves and we make a move because we are tired of waiting or not satisfied with the progress, the results may be a lifetime of regret. Remember, we can not see what is ahead but He can. Sometimes no answer is sparing us.
Not every answer has to be like a proposal...yes, yes, yes. God may not answer immediately but I do know that in His time, he will give me an answer.
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways" declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55: 8-9
Monday, April 30, 2012
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Who Am I
When we were younger, we use to play a game we called "Who am I?" Sometimes we would imitate celebrities, super heroes, or friends. It was always fun.
That said, my husband and I were travelling to Fredericksburg a couple of weeks ago and I heard a Tejano Music Singer that was a "blast from the past." His name is Ram Hererra. This was an individual all the ladies followed in the 80's and wow did they ever follow him.
You can imagine my surprise when I heard him singing a song on K-LOVE radio. The song he sang was Who Am I made popular by Casting Crowns. I was very surprised that this individual would be singing it based on the past but it was proof that God extends mercy and grace to everyone.
Usually when I post, it is something that is on my heart at that moment. Today's post is different. I heard that song a couple of weeks ago. Today, while I was looking through some books I found an old church bulletin. It was dated March 10th, 2007 and guess what the series name was....Who am I. It recall the pastor handing out name tags and allowing the members to write in who they were. I still have mine glued to my old bible it says "Hello, my name is...." and based on that morning's sermon the name I wrote in was protected.
We may go around in life wearing name tags that read "Hello, my name is depressed, anger, bitterness, failure, or ugly only because that's the way we feel about ourself. We may have several name tags with several different names simply based on the idea that we can not believe God would see us as worthy.
Perhaps that morning someone overlooked us or maybe that morning someone angered us or perhaps that morning, we were still carrying the pain of a failure.
I have to tell you, those things may happen but you don't have to stay there! God truly values you as His child and He believes you were created for greatness. We are the ones that hold us back. Our issues, our insecurities, our self esteem. God created us...why would we not know who we are?
If our boss came to us and said "We are promoting you to Supervisor" I doubt that we would ask "why."
I would ask "When does it take effect?" I would venture to guess that we would not ask why because most of us know we are hard workers and we deserve it.
In preparing this, I thought of Moses. That Moses! When God called him to lead the people out of Egypt, Moses asked God "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" [Exodus 3:11] Moses' question was one that perhaps was indicative of inadequacy, insufficient training, or potential to fail.
In 2 Samuel 7, God is telling David all that He will do for him:
I go to the lyrics of the Casting Crown Song:
Who am I that the Lord of all the earth would care to know my name and would care to feel my hurt.
I sincerely believe the answer to that question lives in the chorus:
Not because of who I am but because of what you've done, not because of what you've done but because of who you are.
So I can ask all day long "Who Am I?" but in the end, like David, I am a child of the most high God. It is an honor to receive the blessings and promises that go along with being that child. Like Ram Herrera, I might question why God would "consider" me and I might ask "Who am I that you would care" but in the end, it's more about who HE is!
Then King David went in and sat before the Lord, and he said "Who am I, O Sovereign Lord, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far? Ans as if this were not enough in your sight, O Soverign Lord, yo uhave also spoken about the future of the house of your servant, Is this your usual way of dealing with man, O Sovereign Lord? O Sovereign Lord, you are God! Your words are trustworthy, and you have promised these good things to your servant. 2 Samuel 7:18-20 & 28
(C) Who Am I, Casting Crown Lyrics http://www.sing365.com/
Perhaps that morning someone overlooked us or maybe that morning someone angered us or perhaps that morning, we were still carrying the pain of a failure.
I have to tell you, those things may happen but you don't have to stay there! God truly values you as His child and He believes you were created for greatness. We are the ones that hold us back. Our issues, our insecurities, our self esteem. God created us...why would we not know who we are?
If our boss came to us and said "We are promoting you to Supervisor" I doubt that we would ask "why."
I would ask "When does it take effect?" I would venture to guess that we would not ask why because most of us know we are hard workers and we deserve it.
In preparing this, I thought of Moses. That Moses! When God called him to lead the people out of Egypt, Moses asked God "Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" [Exodus 3:11] Moses' question was one that perhaps was indicative of inadequacy, insufficient training, or potential to fail.
- I took you from the pasture and from following the flock to be ruler over my people Israel
- I have been with you wherever you have gone
- I have cut off your enemies from before you
- Now, I will make your name great
I go to the lyrics of the Casting Crown Song:
Who am I that the Lord of all the earth would care to know my name and would care to feel my hurt.
I sincerely believe the answer to that question lives in the chorus:
Not because of who I am but because of what you've done, not because of what you've done but because of who you are.
So I can ask all day long "Who Am I?" but in the end, like David, I am a child of the most high God. It is an honor to receive the blessings and promises that go along with being that child. Like Ram Herrera, I might question why God would "consider" me and I might ask "Who am I that you would care" but in the end, it's more about who HE is!
Then King David went in and sat before the Lord, and he said "Who am I, O Sovereign Lord, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far? Ans as if this were not enough in your sight, O Soverign Lord, yo uhave also spoken about the future of the house of your servant, Is this your usual way of dealing with man, O Sovereign Lord? O Sovereign Lord, you are God! Your words are trustworthy, and you have promised these good things to your servant. 2 Samuel 7:18-20 & 28
(C) Who Am I, Casting Crown Lyrics http://www.sing365.com/
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Rejected
Today I went to the store to pick up some things. As I was standing in line to pay, I saw a picture of a celebrity on the cover of a very popular magazine. This celebrity is a man who was married to a "cougar" many years his senior.
Recently, news of "trouble in paradise" distupted this high profile marriage leading to divorce. This post is not about cougars, infidelity, or younger women. It is about what was sparked in me when I saw this photo. The photograph on the magazine cover was the [male] celebrity with a woman closer to his age. Since his wife was almost double his age, there was much criticism about the difference. Her oldest daughter and him were much closer in age. Now, that is behind them and it is all for naught.
However, when I saw the picture, it took me back to the effects the news had on his wife. When it was discovered that the marriage was over, his wife did not do well. That can't be news that we do well with but this was different.
This was a personal afront. Stop and think about it. Have you ever been chosen last, been overlooked, not been heard in a room full of people? Have you ever been rejected? It's one thing to reject a project or a product or an idea...I'm talking about personally rejected?
My heart went out to this lady when I saw the effects that rejection had on her. I could only imagine the questions beginning with why? He was saying "I don't want you and I don't need you" and it's difficult to recover from that. She chose to enter into a lifestyle that not only affected her thoughts and decisions but were also a threat to her very life.
I would venture to guess that we have all been there at one time or another. Rejection is the most painful things one can experience. It says "You are not worthy" "I don't need you" "You don't count." For too many, it is easier to lay down and believe that. Some will not let themselves recover from that lie.
The bottom line is that not everyone is going to accept you, not every one is going to be compassionate and not everyone is going to care. When Christ was talking to his disciples, he was describing the coming of the Son of Man. He told them that *first, He must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation.
[Luke 17:25]
If you are in a situation where you have been "rejected" take heart in knowing that there is an option to staying in the lie. The Son of God himself was rejected and later exalted to the highest place. While your heart may be broken remember, man can not out do what God has promised and He has promised a better tomorrow.
When you feel rejected, reject it!
Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus; Who being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped but made himself nothing taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became ovedient to death, even death on a cross! Therefore, God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under earth and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of the Father. Philippians 2:5-11
*That word, first, is indicative that there is more to come. First he was rejected but then he was exalted.
Recently, news of "trouble in paradise" distupted this high profile marriage leading to divorce. This post is not about cougars, infidelity, or younger women. It is about what was sparked in me when I saw this photo. The photograph on the magazine cover was the [male] celebrity with a woman closer to his age. Since his wife was almost double his age, there was much criticism about the difference. Her oldest daughter and him were much closer in age. Now, that is behind them and it is all for naught.
However, when I saw the picture, it took me back to the effects the news had on his wife. When it was discovered that the marriage was over, his wife did not do well. That can't be news that we do well with but this was different.
This was a personal afront. Stop and think about it. Have you ever been chosen last, been overlooked, not been heard in a room full of people? Have you ever been rejected? It's one thing to reject a project or a product or an idea...I'm talking about personally rejected?
My heart went out to this lady when I saw the effects that rejection had on her. I could only imagine the questions beginning with why? He was saying "I don't want you and I don't need you" and it's difficult to recover from that. She chose to enter into a lifestyle that not only affected her thoughts and decisions but were also a threat to her very life.
I would venture to guess that we have all been there at one time or another. Rejection is the most painful things one can experience. It says "You are not worthy" "I don't need you" "You don't count." For too many, it is easier to lay down and believe that. Some will not let themselves recover from that lie.
The bottom line is that not everyone is going to accept you, not every one is going to be compassionate and not everyone is going to care. When Christ was talking to his disciples, he was describing the coming of the Son of Man. He told them that *first, He must suffer many things and be rejected by this generation.
[Luke 17:25]
If you are in a situation where you have been "rejected" take heart in knowing that there is an option to staying in the lie. The Son of God himself was rejected and later exalted to the highest place. While your heart may be broken remember, man can not out do what God has promised and He has promised a better tomorrow.
When you feel rejected, reject it!
Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus; Who being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped but made himself nothing taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became ovedient to death, even death on a cross! Therefore, God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under earth and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of the Father. Philippians 2:5-11
*That word, first, is indicative that there is more to come. First he was rejected but then he was exalted.
Friday, April 27, 2012
Rescue me
When I wrote this title, I thought of a song from the 60's. Yes, it is an era I am familiar with. The song was Rescue Me by Fontella Bass. I thought of the song because of a story that began about a month ago and it dealt with a "rescue."
I saw a Facebook post about a dog that needed a home. Now I have to admit, I have never been a huge fan of dogs. We had a large dog growing up and he got in our way more than he helped. He did however intervene when a burglar attempted to enter our bedroom through a window in the middle of the night. We were all young kids and when dad heard the bark and felt the dog's anxiety, he came to our room and "rescued" us.
So....when I read this Facebook post, I asked my husband if we could take the dog. Now, we already have a chihuahua that is 13 years old. We call him the "dog log" because he finds a good crease and fits right in and will not move until morning or until he is "moved."
He is pretty set in his ways, and so much like humans. He has slowed down, doesn't really want too much action....but he is a great "watch dog." My husband had concerns about bringing in a new dog because Sammy had been the only one for so long. I had no concerns and asked again if we could pleasssssse take this other dog.
Her rescuer, Katie Crawford, just looked so natural holding the precious dog. The dog looked so much like a fox it was amazing! Beautiful and blonde with sharp features. My husband finally gave in and we went to "look" at the dog.
We were told that this was a "rescue" dog. I could not understand it. She just seemed so loveable. She sat in the "temporary owner's" lap and just allowed herself to be loved. I was very excited and grateful that someone had taken the time to rescue this precious animal. We walked in to "look" at the dog and walked out "owners."
She is a pomeranian chihuahua mix. Long blonde hair and wow...has she got spunk. We took her in and the first thing we did is give her a name. She is now Daisy. She loves to play but I'll tell you the truth, it's like having a teenager and a toddler. Sammy goes his own way and she just wants to play.
When I think of how she wondered the streets lost and probably scared, I am thankful that someone took her in. Although Katie might tell you that the dog found her! I understand that when Katie pulled up and opened her car door, Daisy jumped in and the rest is history.
Again, I don't consider myself as emotionally attached to dogs but the other day I visited Katie's school on an assignment and Katie introduced me to a friend of hers. She introduced me as "Daisy's Momma." I thought that was so neat. She rescued Daisy but I was her "momma."
Sometimes we go along in life and we are lost, afraid, and lack direction. We long for someone to "rescue" us from the turmoil and difficulties of life. I am grateful that God did not leave us to our own defenses. I am grateful that He came and rescued me. I am grateful that I can sit in his lap and that He gave me a new name and I am most happy that he is my Father!
The Isrealites called for God to rescue them [Judges 10:15]
Daisy has brought us so much happiness. She is alllll girl. Sammy wakes up and we put him outside to roam around and "be a dog." Daisy on the other hand is a true Diva. She needs her A/C. She is so funny and believe me...she IS going to get your attention. Thank you Katie for rescuing our Daisy and thank you Father for rescuing me!
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory for ever and ever. Amen. Galatians 1:3-4
We were told that this was a "rescue" dog. I could not understand it. She just seemed so loveable. She sat in the "temporary owner's" lap and just allowed herself to be loved. I was very excited and grateful that someone had taken the time to rescue this precious animal. We walked in to "look" at the dog and walked out "owners."
- God rescued David [1 Samuel 17:37]
- God rescued Daniel [ Daniel 6:16]
- God has rescued me [Galatians 1:4].
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, to whom be the glory for ever and ever. Amen. Galatians 1:3-4
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Hollywood Sign
Today I heard quite the story. Our Bible Study, Designer Woman, had a guest speaker named Cherita Andrews. She was a past contestant on The Biggest Loser. Wow, did she ever have a story. The one that impacted me most was the "middle of the night" story.
She explained that while they were filming the show in California, she and three others were awakened at four o'clock in the morning while it was still dark. She added that they went for a "walk" in the dark. She could feel a bit of an incline but continued the walk at the direction of the doctor on staff.
As they approached their destination and the sun came up, she realized that they had just climbed the mountain where the Hollywood Sign stood. She explained that she understood the significance of doing it in the dark as she felt God was telling her "If you had seen where I wanted you to go, you would not have gone there."
So it is with most of us. I can promise you, had I known the journey God had planned for me, I might have argued, whined, tried to convince God, and finally just flat out refused to go there.
As I think of them climbing the mountain where the Hollywood sign is, I thought of Moses walking towards the burning bush on Horeb. I have to tell you I might have been more like Moses. That's why God doesn't fill me in on the journey.
I'm sure I would be "who am I that I should go?" or "Oh Lord, I have never been eloquent" or "I am slow of speech." That's why! Despite God telling Moses that he was the one He wanted and despite God telling him that He would be with him, Moses hesitated.
Moses ended his dialog by saying "O Lord, please send someone else to do it." I have to admit...there have been times...and the excuses are endless. "I'm tired, I'm not capeable, I'm not smart enough, I'm too busy" and so on.
All God requires is our willingness....He will take care of the rest. So close your eyes, open your arms and make yourself available. It might not be the Hollywood Sign but I promise you, when you go through the journey and come out on the other side you will know it was only because you allowed God to take you on that journey.
But Moses said to God, "Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" And God said, "I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain. Exodus 3:11-12
Read the complete story in Exodus 3 and 4
She explained that while they were filming the show in California, she and three others were awakened at four o'clock in the morning while it was still dark. She added that they went for a "walk" in the dark. She could feel a bit of an incline but continued the walk at the direction of the doctor on staff.
As they approached their destination and the sun came up, she realized that they had just climbed the mountain where the Hollywood Sign stood. She explained that she understood the significance of doing it in the dark as she felt God was telling her "If you had seen where I wanted you to go, you would not have gone there."
So it is with most of us. I can promise you, had I known the journey God had planned for me, I might have argued, whined, tried to convince God, and finally just flat out refused to go there.
As I think of them climbing the mountain where the Hollywood sign is, I thought of Moses walking towards the burning bush on Horeb. I have to tell you I might have been more like Moses. That's why God doesn't fill me in on the journey.
I'm sure I would be "who am I that I should go?" or "Oh Lord, I have never been eloquent" or "I am slow of speech." That's why! Despite God telling Moses that he was the one He wanted and despite God telling him that He would be with him, Moses hesitated.
Moses ended his dialog by saying "O Lord, please send someone else to do it." I have to admit...there have been times...and the excuses are endless. "I'm tired, I'm not capeable, I'm not smart enough, I'm too busy" and so on.
All God requires is our willingness....He will take care of the rest. So close your eyes, open your arms and make yourself available. It might not be the Hollywood Sign but I promise you, when you go through the journey and come out on the other side you will know it was only because you allowed God to take you on that journey.
But Moses said to God, "Who am I, that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?" And God said, "I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain. Exodus 3:11-12
Read the complete story in Exodus 3 and 4
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
The Reunion
Next month, I will have been out of high school thirty six years. I try to tell my son who is a Junior in High School that he will never be able to duplicate these years. Friends will go to college in different parts of the country, their families will move and some may never make it back to our community.
I have had the same "best friend" for almost 40 years. Theresa and I did go to high school together, we were best friends there and we lived in the same general area. We know each other's families, we love each other's parents and we live in the same community even now.
We are very different. She has been married to the same man for 35 years, they have three sons, and she has always been a stay at home mom who volunteered at the school library. Today, this story is not about her. It is about another friend who shared my name. We all attended the same high school.
I only made one high school reunion, I think it was the ten year reunion. Last year, some of us decided that we wanted to have a mini "girl's reunion" with some girl friends from high school. We met at a restaurant and shared some laughs. I had not seen some of these ladies in 35 years. Some had changed tremendously, others...not so much.
All of us had children. Some like me, waited until late in life, others had grandchildren. My friend Diana had a grown daughter in her twenties. She was her only child. Diana had been an only child and her friends consisted of classmates and some neighborhood kids. I discovered that Diana sufferred from Diabetes. I am all too familiar with that disease. Many of the fears that my family has realted to diabetes were realities to her.
I learned that Diana had to have her foot amputated as a result of the disease. She also had not worked since high school. We were all so different. Thirty five years can sure take people in opposite directions, change their lifestyle and even personalities. We were now mothers and grandmothers and all of us at this reunion lived within 30-35 miles of each other.
Some friends could not make it because of illnesses and some of them I longed to see. I had searched for one in particular and always came to a dead end. It seemed she was lost forever. I discovered at this reunion that she lives in Spring. How does one get lost in Spring, Tx? She could not attend the reunion due to illness.
How did that happen? It seemed like it was only yesterday when we were sharing laughs in the classroom, talking about Friday night plans and planning for graduation. We never considered aging, diseases and life long issues.
We met in my community, shared our pictures, our laughs and our stories and then we left. I left thinking that I had not seen some of these ladies in 35 years and some I would never see again. I was right.
A few months later I got a phone call from Diana's daughter. Diana had passed away. She was having mild chest pains, went to the hospital and within days she was gone. After waiting so long to get together and now she was gone.
There was nothing I could do to bring back any of those years. In fact, I have lost track of many of these friends. Some have been found through social networking but I have difficulty recognizing them as I am still expecting the friend from years back. I'm certain it is the same with me.
Yesterday I sat with my father-in-law and he pulled out his class photo from the fourth grade....fourth grade! He is ninety seven years old how many of those kids do you think we would find for a reunion today?
What would you do differently if you knew there was no tomorrow for a friend, for a loved one, for you? There may be no more reunions here on earth but my mission would be to once again see these friends...this time for good....the real reunion.
As God's fellow workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. For he says, "In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you." I tell you, now is the time of God;s favor, now is the day of salvation. Galatians 6:1-2
Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven not built with human hands. 2 Corthians 5:1
I have had the same "best friend" for almost 40 years. Theresa and I did go to high school together, we were best friends there and we lived in the same general area. We know each other's families, we love each other's parents and we live in the same community even now.
We are very different. She has been married to the same man for 35 years, they have three sons, and she has always been a stay at home mom who volunteered at the school library. Today, this story is not about her. It is about another friend who shared my name. We all attended the same high school.
I only made one high school reunion, I think it was the ten year reunion. Last year, some of us decided that we wanted to have a mini "girl's reunion" with some girl friends from high school. We met at a restaurant and shared some laughs. I had not seen some of these ladies in 35 years. Some had changed tremendously, others...not so much.
All of us had children. Some like me, waited until late in life, others had grandchildren. My friend Diana had a grown daughter in her twenties. She was her only child. Diana had been an only child and her friends consisted of classmates and some neighborhood kids. I discovered that Diana sufferred from Diabetes. I am all too familiar with that disease. Many of the fears that my family has realted to diabetes were realities to her.
I learned that Diana had to have her foot amputated as a result of the disease. She also had not worked since high school. We were all so different. Thirty five years can sure take people in opposite directions, change their lifestyle and even personalities. We were now mothers and grandmothers and all of us at this reunion lived within 30-35 miles of each other.
Some friends could not make it because of illnesses and some of them I longed to see. I had searched for one in particular and always came to a dead end. It seemed she was lost forever. I discovered at this reunion that she lives in Spring. How does one get lost in Spring, Tx? She could not attend the reunion due to illness.
How did that happen? It seemed like it was only yesterday when we were sharing laughs in the classroom, talking about Friday night plans and planning for graduation. We never considered aging, diseases and life long issues.
We met in my community, shared our pictures, our laughs and our stories and then we left. I left thinking that I had not seen some of these ladies in 35 years and some I would never see again. I was right.
A few months later I got a phone call from Diana's daughter. Diana had passed away. She was having mild chest pains, went to the hospital and within days she was gone. After waiting so long to get together and now she was gone.
There was nothing I could do to bring back any of those years. In fact, I have lost track of many of these friends. Some have been found through social networking but I have difficulty recognizing them as I am still expecting the friend from years back. I'm certain it is the same with me.
Yesterday I sat with my father-in-law and he pulled out his class photo from the fourth grade....fourth grade! He is ninety seven years old how many of those kids do you think we would find for a reunion today?
What would you do differently if you knew there was no tomorrow for a friend, for a loved one, for you? There may be no more reunions here on earth but my mission would be to once again see these friends...this time for good....the real reunion.
As God's fellow workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. For he says, "In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you." I tell you, now is the time of God;s favor, now is the day of salvation. Galatians 6:1-2
Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven not built with human hands. 2 Corthians 5:1
Monday, April 23, 2012
It's Not Greener
This month was the 100th Anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic. It was supposed to be the "unsinkable" ship. While my husband and I had already seen the movie, we went to watch it in 3D. Much of it reminded me of a particular portion of scripture in Psalms.
The characters are many but I want to speak of a couple in particular. The main characters are Rose, Jack and Cal. Cal is the "rich" fiance who thinks he owns Rose. He is high class and pays for the entire trip. They are First Class Customers.
Jack on the other hand, saves Rose from herself and he won his ticket to the Titanic in a poker game. Rose is quickly attracted to his commitment, his spirit, and him. They fall in love. Ruth, her mom, travels with her and she is really the focus of this post.
The more Rose drifts to Jack, the more this infurates her mother Ruth. Ruth has an ulterior motive. You see, Ruth has arranged the marriage between Rose and Cal and it is all for one reason...money. Ruth is rude, selfish and cares for no one but herself. She wants what Cal has....status, prestige, and wealth. After all, it will cost her nothing. Her daughter is the one making the sacrifice.
While Ruth and Rose come from a good name, Ruth reminds her daughter that they are almost broke. Ruth, goes on to tell her in a conversation that her father left them with a "legacy of bad debts hidden by a good name." For this reason, Rose must marry Cal. Ruth will have it no other way!
Rose has a choice to make. Sacrifice the love she has for Jack or follow her mother's wishes and marry a man she does not love and will be miserable with. All for the sake of comfort. Rose wants no part of Cal including his money.
How many times do we entertain the idea of wanting what someone else has? Regardless of the price. This can and often does come with a price. And you know what? Once you get it, it's not all you thought it would be. What then? This was costly for Ruth in a couple of ways. First and most importantly, she lost her relationship with her daughter. Second, she shot for the top and wound up where she feared being most...alone and broke.
When you seek to have what another has you will most certainly jeopardize the relationship and that is more important than any material thing. Trust me when I say it is not greener. I can assure you that Ruth's issue was losing her status and the possibility of being seen as second class.
Joyce Meyer once said "Don't be wanting what I got if you're not willing to do what I had to do to get it!" Don't let your feet slip, don't lose your foothold. Ruth was willing to risk everything including her daughter for a little more green. Remember....it's not greener on the other side.
But as for me, my feet almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They have no struggles; their bones are healthy and strong. They are free from the burdens comman to man. Their are not plagued by human ills. Therefore, pride is their necklace. Psalm 73:2-6
Whom do I have in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. [v25]
The characters are many but I want to speak of a couple in particular. The main characters are Rose, Jack and Cal. Cal is the "rich" fiance who thinks he owns Rose. He is high class and pays for the entire trip. They are First Class Customers.
Jack on the other hand, saves Rose from herself and he won his ticket to the Titanic in a poker game. Rose is quickly attracted to his commitment, his spirit, and him. They fall in love. Ruth, her mom, travels with her and she is really the focus of this post.
The more Rose drifts to Jack, the more this infurates her mother Ruth. Ruth has an ulterior motive. You see, Ruth has arranged the marriage between Rose and Cal and it is all for one reason...money. Ruth is rude, selfish and cares for no one but herself. She wants what Cal has....status, prestige, and wealth. After all, it will cost her nothing. Her daughter is the one making the sacrifice.
While Ruth and Rose come from a good name, Ruth reminds her daughter that they are almost broke. Ruth, goes on to tell her in a conversation that her father left them with a "legacy of bad debts hidden by a good name." For this reason, Rose must marry Cal. Ruth will have it no other way!
Rose has a choice to make. Sacrifice the love she has for Jack or follow her mother's wishes and marry a man she does not love and will be miserable with. All for the sake of comfort. Rose wants no part of Cal including his money.
How many times do we entertain the idea of wanting what someone else has? Regardless of the price. This can and often does come with a price. And you know what? Once you get it, it's not all you thought it would be. What then? This was costly for Ruth in a couple of ways. First and most importantly, she lost her relationship with her daughter. Second, she shot for the top and wound up where she feared being most...alone and broke.
When you seek to have what another has you will most certainly jeopardize the relationship and that is more important than any material thing. Trust me when I say it is not greener. I can assure you that Ruth's issue was losing her status and the possibility of being seen as second class.
Joyce Meyer once said "Don't be wanting what I got if you're not willing to do what I had to do to get it!" Don't let your feet slip, don't lose your foothold. Ruth was willing to risk everything including her daughter for a little more green. Remember....it's not greener on the other side.
But as for me, my feet almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They have no struggles; their bones are healthy and strong. They are free from the burdens comman to man. Their are not plagued by human ills. Therefore, pride is their necklace. Psalm 73:2-6
Whom do I have in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. [v25]
Sunday, April 22, 2012
A Reliable Wife
I am an avid reader. I love to read all types of material. As we speak, I have three books on hand but I just had to have a "veggin out" book since we were out of town relaxing. I went to the local Walmart knowing they would have authors like Rivers and Kingsbury but to my disappointment, they were pricey. So.... we headed to the next best place-Goodwill.
They have the best prices and used books have character. I picked up a book that was titled A Reliable Wife. I love old country bride series and staged in the early 1900's it was right up my alley. I opened the book to read a description and got a good chuckle.
The inscription read "Danielle, you are the most amazing wife I could ever ask for and although this book has nothing to do with our marriage, it really looked like something you would really like to read. [The] title is so fitting...to the best, hottest, most caring sensual, sensative, dramatic, loveable, 'Reliable Wife' and woman in the world! Happy 9th Anniversary from your 'Dependable Husband'"
I have kept every card my husband has given me so I can't imagine giving away a book with such an inscription or a book given on such a special occasion. Of course the next question is "Did they make it to ten?"
I am growing out of my house with books. As I thumbed through this book, it was very clear I would not be able to read it. I chose not to read it because as it turns out, it was not a Christian based book so I got rid of it.
Along with the book went the inscription. I wonder who Danielle is. I also wonder that if she was so wonderful, why would she give the book away? I don't long to be like Danielle but you know in Proverbs 31, there is a woman that many of us long to be like and it goes beyond being "reliable."
This wife gets up while it's still dark, she provides for her family, she works hard, she opens her arms to the poor, she helps those in need, she has no fear for her household, she makes clothing for her bed, her husband is respected a the city gate. Additionally, she is clothed with strength and dignity, she speaks with wisdom and she watches over the affairs of her household. [Proverbs 31].
I would say that considering the above, THAT is a reliable wife!
A wife of noble character is her husband's crown...Proverbs 12:4
They have the best prices and used books have character. I picked up a book that was titled A Reliable Wife. I love old country bride series and staged in the early 1900's it was right up my alley. I opened the book to read a description and got a good chuckle.
The inscription read "Danielle, you are the most amazing wife I could ever ask for and although this book has nothing to do with our marriage, it really looked like something you would really like to read. [The] title is so fitting...to the best, hottest, most caring sensual, sensative, dramatic, loveable, 'Reliable Wife' and woman in the world! Happy 9th Anniversary from your 'Dependable Husband'"
I have kept every card my husband has given me so I can't imagine giving away a book with such an inscription or a book given on such a special occasion. Of course the next question is "Did they make it to ten?"
I am growing out of my house with books. As I thumbed through this book, it was very clear I would not be able to read it. I chose not to read it because as it turns out, it was not a Christian based book so I got rid of it.
Along with the book went the inscription. I wonder who Danielle is. I also wonder that if she was so wonderful, why would she give the book away? I don't long to be like Danielle but you know in Proverbs 31, there is a woman that many of us long to be like and it goes beyond being "reliable."
This wife gets up while it's still dark, she provides for her family, she works hard, she opens her arms to the poor, she helps those in need, she has no fear for her household, she makes clothing for her bed, her husband is respected a the city gate. Additionally, she is clothed with strength and dignity, she speaks with wisdom and she watches over the affairs of her household. [Proverbs 31].
I would say that considering the above, THAT is a reliable wife!
A wife of noble character is her husband's crown...Proverbs 12:4
Friday, April 20, 2012
His Steps First
We live in a vey loud place. Whether that's your home, workplace or city. Noise comes from TVs, computers and even the hum of a washing machine.
Yesterday, my husband and I were walking some property. It was quiet and peaceful. I have to admit, nothing but a soft breeze and birds in sync made for a relaxing walk. I wandered away from my husband and allowed thee natural slope of the land to take me in. The grass was so green, the land so pretty and the views breathtaking. Who wouldn't want to spend hours here? The more I ventured downward, the further from my husband I got.
What I didn't realize was the dangers that came despite the peace. The cactus was obvious but I was completely oblivious to bull nettle and thistle. I felt a "sting" and my husbanded warned "Watch out for the thistle and nettle bush!" what? I thought I was just looking out for cactus! My husband met me where I was and took my hand. Then he led the way. As he pointed out the thistle, a taller plant, I kept my eyes open for it.
What I realized, in following my husband, was that each time I took a step, the thistle before me had been stepped on. My husband was stepping on the thistle so the it would not "get me" when I took a step. I realized that this is what "His Steps First" is all about.
So many times I get ahead of God, I track my own journey, I let being in control take over and I end up in the thistle. If I would just let God lead, I would find that His way is much better. He loves me so much that He can see the dangers and will keep me from thm if I will only take His hand and let Him lead. There will always be dangers such as cactus, thistle and nettle brush.
The question is are you going to let God lead through the dangers? Are you going to take the lead and get lost in what's on the surface or are ypu going to take His hand and follow His Steps First?
To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow His steps. 1 Peter 2:21
Yesterday, my husband and I were walking some property. It was quiet and peaceful. I have to admit, nothing but a soft breeze and birds in sync made for a relaxing walk. I wandered away from my husband and allowed thee natural slope of the land to take me in. The grass was so green, the land so pretty and the views breathtaking. Who wouldn't want to spend hours here? The more I ventured downward, the further from my husband I got.
What I didn't realize was the dangers that came despite the peace. The cactus was obvious but I was completely oblivious to bull nettle and thistle. I felt a "sting" and my husbanded warned "Watch out for the thistle and nettle bush!" what? I thought I was just looking out for cactus! My husband met me where I was and took my hand. Then he led the way. As he pointed out the thistle, a taller plant, I kept my eyes open for it.
What I realized, in following my husband, was that each time I took a step, the thistle before me had been stepped on. My husband was stepping on the thistle so the it would not "get me" when I took a step. I realized that this is what "His Steps First" is all about.
So many times I get ahead of God, I track my own journey, I let being in control take over and I end up in the thistle. If I would just let God lead, I would find that His way is much better. He loves me so much that He can see the dangers and will keep me from thm if I will only take His hand and let Him lead. There will always be dangers such as cactus, thistle and nettle brush.
The question is are you going to let God lead through the dangers? Are you going to take the lead and get lost in what's on the surface or are ypu going to take His hand and follow His Steps First?
To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow His steps. 1 Peter 2:21
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
No Cover Charge
I always talk about my brother Lee. Perhaps that is because we literally "grew up together." We were partners in crime, side kicks and tied at the hip. Thirteen months apart and he was the best protector so we are very close.
Today however, I was reminded of a story that involved my sister Cynthia. We lived in a neighborhood off Homestead Rd. Our street was booming. It was for all intents and purposes our own. Homestead seperated it from the other streets in our neighborhood and no kids dared cross Homestead.
We lived at the entrance to our street and being a dead-end, it had one way in and one way out. The entire street probably had between twenty five to thirty homes. Alot of the kids gathered at our two bedroom house because we had a double lot and that was plenty of room to race, play hide and seek, build things, etc. It was also surrounded by a cyclone fence, an added luxury that made other parents feel safe from "street playing."
I remember one day when my father purchased a simple above ground pool. It was one with an aluminum wall and plastic liner but now we were the hit of the neighborhood. We had more kids at our house than at any day care. These were hot summers and the kids loved it. We were the products of "it takes a village" at work. Parents were comfortable and would leave their kids for hours because they knew where they were and that there was parental supervision.
Apparently, the "crowd" got too big for my sister Cynthia. She demonstrated her entreprenur skills early. This was discovered when my mother found a child sitting apart from the group, crying. My mother asked the child why they were not swimming with the rest of the kids. The child looked at my mom and said "I don't have a quarter to swim." Of course my mom investigated further and found my sister standing at the pool "charging a quarter" to enter the pool.
My mom was not happy to say the least. My sister had to return the quarters and was "confined" to her room for the rest of the day. I believe my sister learned her lesson and did not charge for entry to the pool again.
I am so glad that we do not have to pay an entry fee into God's Kingdom. We don't have to be sin-less, Jesus was that; we don't have to offer sacrifice, Jesus did that; and we don't have to pay the price, Jesus did that when he went to the cross.
What an awesome feeling to be a part of something without having to pay for it. You don't have to work for it, you don't have to pay a fee, you just have to accept this wonderful gift of love for you. Accept, Believe and Confess. Christ paid the price when he died on the cross and covered our sins....there is no cover charge.
Yet to all who receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become the children of God. John 1:12
Today however, I was reminded of a story that involved my sister Cynthia. We lived in a neighborhood off Homestead Rd. Our street was booming. It was for all intents and purposes our own. Homestead seperated it from the other streets in our neighborhood and no kids dared cross Homestead.
We lived at the entrance to our street and being a dead-end, it had one way in and one way out. The entire street probably had between twenty five to thirty homes. Alot of the kids gathered at our two bedroom house because we had a double lot and that was plenty of room to race, play hide and seek, build things, etc. It was also surrounded by a cyclone fence, an added luxury that made other parents feel safe from "street playing."
I remember one day when my father purchased a simple above ground pool. It was one with an aluminum wall and plastic liner but now we were the hit of the neighborhood. We had more kids at our house than at any day care. These were hot summers and the kids loved it. We were the products of "it takes a village" at work. Parents were comfortable and would leave their kids for hours because they knew where they were and that there was parental supervision.
Apparently, the "crowd" got too big for my sister Cynthia. She demonstrated her entreprenur skills early. This was discovered when my mother found a child sitting apart from the group, crying. My mother asked the child why they were not swimming with the rest of the kids. The child looked at my mom and said "I don't have a quarter to swim." Of course my mom investigated further and found my sister standing at the pool "charging a quarter" to enter the pool.
My mom was not happy to say the least. My sister had to return the quarters and was "confined" to her room for the rest of the day. I believe my sister learned her lesson and did not charge for entry to the pool again.
I am so glad that we do not have to pay an entry fee into God's Kingdom. We don't have to be sin-less, Jesus was that; we don't have to offer sacrifice, Jesus did that; and we don't have to pay the price, Jesus did that when he went to the cross.
What an awesome feeling to be a part of something without having to pay for it. You don't have to work for it, you don't have to pay a fee, you just have to accept this wonderful gift of love for you. Accept, Believe and Confess. Christ paid the price when he died on the cross and covered our sins....there is no cover charge.
Yet to all who receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become the children of God. John 1:12
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Moving on
Ever think of how there are things you just can't forget? Maybe a great accomplishment, a special date, or a memorable ocassion? Then there are things others won't let you forget.
In 2010, the New York Giants and the Philadelphia Eagles were tied in an NFL football game. It was the remaining seconds and the Giants were hoping to go into overtime. Matt Dodge of the New York Giants was called on to punt out of bounds in order to kill time. Unfortunately, there was a misunderstanding and he punted across the field. At a time that everyone expected them to go into overtime, their plan failed.
Desean Jackson of the Eagles returned the kick and travelled over 80 yards to the opposite end of the field scoring the winning touchdown. This act sent the New York Giants home. I can remember seeing the media clip of Dodge's mistake. It was replayed over and over and over again. I could not change it to any channel where it was not showing. I felt very bad for the guy and although you are ready to move on, you have a coach in your ear shouting something like "what were you thinking, you lost us the game, where was your head?"
Last season, Billy Cundiff of the Ravens found himself in a similar situation. The game winning field goal depended on him. He positioned himself, set back and let the kick go...unfortunately, it missed the goal post and the fail resulted in a lost game. Again, the replay was constant and the actions the same. Failed attempt, shoulders droop, head drops and a continual reminder for the world to see.
I am so glad that God does not have an instant replay that he holds over our head. In today's social media world; mistakes, errors and bad decisions are posted for the entire world to see. I am grateful that Christ's act on the cross wiped all my mistakes, bad decisions and errors. I am a sinner saved by grace. It would be difficult if everyday, someone brought up my past mistakes. The world may judge and measure us us by our past but we can dwell on it. There will always be another season and there will always be mistakes. We must press on, we must move on.
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind, and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3: 12-14
In 2010, the New York Giants and the Philadelphia Eagles were tied in an NFL football game. It was the remaining seconds and the Giants were hoping to go into overtime. Matt Dodge of the New York Giants was called on to punt out of bounds in order to kill time. Unfortunately, there was a misunderstanding and he punted across the field. At a time that everyone expected them to go into overtime, their plan failed.
Desean Jackson of the Eagles returned the kick and travelled over 80 yards to the opposite end of the field scoring the winning touchdown. This act sent the New York Giants home. I can remember seeing the media clip of Dodge's mistake. It was replayed over and over and over again. I could not change it to any channel where it was not showing. I felt very bad for the guy and although you are ready to move on, you have a coach in your ear shouting something like "what were you thinking, you lost us the game, where was your head?"
Last season, Billy Cundiff of the Ravens found himself in a similar situation. The game winning field goal depended on him. He positioned himself, set back and let the kick go...unfortunately, it missed the goal post and the fail resulted in a lost game. Again, the replay was constant and the actions the same. Failed attempt, shoulders droop, head drops and a continual reminder for the world to see.
I am so glad that God does not have an instant replay that he holds over our head. In today's social media world; mistakes, errors and bad decisions are posted for the entire world to see. I am grateful that Christ's act on the cross wiped all my mistakes, bad decisions and errors. I am a sinner saved by grace. It would be difficult if everyday, someone brought up my past mistakes. The world may judge and measure us us by our past but we can dwell on it. There will always be another season and there will always be mistakes. We must press on, we must move on.
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind, and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3: 12-14
Monday, April 16, 2012
Lord help me
This year, our church campus hosted an event called Stations of the Cross during Easter. My husband and I had gone through it last year at another campus and found it very impacting. The spirit of the event was reverant and solemn.
Although we knew what to expect, it was still very touching. I told my husband that although it was the same, our sins were not. We are touched and prompted because every day we need God's forgiveness. As we got to the station of Gethesmane, the place where Christ prayed, I was overwhelmed. As I remembered how Christ prayed, I thought of how many times I just whine. They are not the same thing you know. I whine and ask God to "make it stop" or "make it better" and I do it was just enough of a childish tone in my voice that even sounds strange to me!
As we move on through the stations, we get to the last one. Again, very moving...but it is moving to me because my situation, my circumstances, and my sins, are not the same as they were last year. I would venture to guess this was the case for everyone.
You may wonder why I am telling you this after the fact. Why not tell you last week? For two reasons. First, I did not want to spoil the experience for anyone who might read this and then attend the event; and second, because this is when God prompted me to write about it. You see, at the end of the tour, you end up at the foot of the cross. We have all been there. That is the place my husband and I have laid our burdens down many times. This time, it was as new as if it was the very first time. The act was writing your sin/issue on a piece of paper and nailing it to the cross.
You may think "I would never do that for the whole world to see" and I might have apprehensions also except that the piece of paper was black and the ink was black. The only two that knew what you wrote were you and God. What an overwhelming feeling to follow through with that act. Prior to writing, we spent alot of time in prayer. Then finally, I did it. I wrote that thing on that piece of paper believing. I left there with a true feeling of having left it at the foot of the cross but also of believing that God would take care of it.
I said that this is the time God prompted me to write this particular post and now I know why...because he has taken care of that issue! God is so good and so faithful. I went to to that cross crying "Lord save me" and He gave me an entire message on those three words! God used an event to speak to me so clearly and when I was crying out "Lord save me" He was saying "Leave it here." He wasn't only saying that to me but to the many people that went to the cross. Many times things surround us that distract us from God's power and we tend to leave what we know is true. We do this because we feel secure in what we can see and feel.
Jesus has said "Take Courage" He has said "Do not be afraid" and like Peter, I constantly lose sight of His power and majesty. I have to thank my pastor for his God inspired sermon this weekend. So many times God is ready to speak to us and we fail to listen but this weekiend, I saw evidence of His power and today instead of saying "Lord save" me I choose to say "Lord thank you for saving me!"
When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said and cried out in fear. But Jesus said "Take courage! It is I, Don't be afraid." "Lord, if it's you," Peter replied " tell me to come to you on the water." "Come," [Jesus] said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord save me!" Immediately, Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. Matthew 14:26-31
Although we knew what to expect, it was still very touching. I told my husband that although it was the same, our sins were not. We are touched and prompted because every day we need God's forgiveness. As we got to the station of Gethesmane, the place where Christ prayed, I was overwhelmed. As I remembered how Christ prayed, I thought of how many times I just whine. They are not the same thing you know. I whine and ask God to "make it stop" or "make it better" and I do it was just enough of a childish tone in my voice that even sounds strange to me!
As we move on through the stations, we get to the last one. Again, very moving...but it is moving to me because my situation, my circumstances, and my sins, are not the same as they were last year. I would venture to guess this was the case for everyone.
You may wonder why I am telling you this after the fact. Why not tell you last week? For two reasons. First, I did not want to spoil the experience for anyone who might read this and then attend the event; and second, because this is when God prompted me to write about it. You see, at the end of the tour, you end up at the foot of the cross. We have all been there. That is the place my husband and I have laid our burdens down many times. This time, it was as new as if it was the very first time. The act was writing your sin/issue on a piece of paper and nailing it to the cross.
You may think "I would never do that for the whole world to see" and I might have apprehensions also except that the piece of paper was black and the ink was black. The only two that knew what you wrote were you and God. What an overwhelming feeling to follow through with that act. Prior to writing, we spent alot of time in prayer. Then finally, I did it. I wrote that thing on that piece of paper believing. I left there with a true feeling of having left it at the foot of the cross but also of believing that God would take care of it.
I said that this is the time God prompted me to write this particular post and now I know why...because he has taken care of that issue! God is so good and so faithful. I went to to that cross crying "Lord save me" and He gave me an entire message on those three words! God used an event to speak to me so clearly and when I was crying out "Lord save me" He was saying "Leave it here." He wasn't only saying that to me but to the many people that went to the cross. Many times things surround us that distract us from God's power and we tend to leave what we know is true. We do this because we feel secure in what we can see and feel.
Jesus has said "Take Courage" He has said "Do not be afraid" and like Peter, I constantly lose sight of His power and majesty. I have to thank my pastor for his God inspired sermon this weekend. So many times God is ready to speak to us and we fail to listen but this weekiend, I saw evidence of His power and today instead of saying "Lord save" me I choose to say "Lord thank you for saving me!"
When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. "It's a ghost," they said and cried out in fear. But Jesus said "Take courage! It is I, Don't be afraid." "Lord, if it's you," Peter replied " tell me to come to you on the water." "Come," [Jesus] said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and beginning to sink, cried out, "Lord save me!" Immediately, Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. Matthew 14:26-31
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Brush their hair
This morning I heard The Hairbrush Story by Beth Moore. It explained about her experience with a man at the airport and brushing his hair. I have been thinking recently about brushing hair, trimming nails, combing hair, changing clothes....not mine, that of the elderly. I am compelled to write on this based on a story shared by my son's stepmom.
I have aging parents and these things are not my forte. I do not do them well. I find it difficult to comb my mother's hair or trim her nails or fix her make-up. On the other hand, I have a sister who excells in this. Two major differences. I was in law enforcement where I built a wall against emotions and she is a nurse where she welcomes caring for others. I have always used that as my "excuse" for thirty years. Now that I am retired and see mom alot more, it is changing. I have discovered another reason for having difficulty in doing those things and it is one that was foreign to me but now very clear.
You see, I remember a vibrant, youthful mom. One that took control; one that corraled her five kids like little chicks in a fenced yard; one that fought for the right; and one that instilled values in her family. The one time I combed her hair, I was so overwhelmed with having lost that mom that I just find it difficult to do.
Five years ago, my mother-in-law had a stroke. Prior to passing away, I was faced with the challenge of "taking care of her in the hospital." Remember, I had never done this before with my own mother. I will tell you that my heart was changed. I cleaned her face, applied lotion, combed her hair. That only lasted for ten days but I live with no regrets, in fact, I am grateful I did it.
I have a father-in-law that is 97 years old and is so independent, praise God we have not found ourselves in that position yet but I will tell you this....I will clean his house, wash his dishes or clean his toilets any day but will probably find it difficult to comb his hair or brush his teeth. Why is that? For me it is the emotion. I know it is an excuse but for thirty years, if I didn't get "emotionally involved" then I would not hurt when something happened. I will tell you that is a false belief!
My son's step mom, Melinda told me a story that was very impacting. She expressed that they would have to move her mother-in-law from her lifetime home almost 1200 miles away, to Houston. She has gotten to the point that she needs assistance with daily life. These decisions can be life impacting for everyone involved. There are full time jobs, schedules, children, and so many other things to consider. Where will she live, who will take care of her, how will this work? Having worked many of those things out, they brought her here and began a new leg to this journey. Melinda explained that she knew her heart was not in this. That reinforced in me what I had done, I hardened my heart with my own mom. I decided that if I had no "soft heart" no emotion, then there would be no pain...wrong. God's word says:
Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need. But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these whould learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God. 1 Timothy 5:3-4
Melinda went on to say that reluctantly she went to her mother-in-law's new home and discovered that she needed assistance washing her hair. She proceeded to wash her hair and our son walked into the room. He helped by bringing in the shampoo. Melinda went on to describe the overwhelming feeling she had as she slowly felt her hardened heart melting with the washing of her mother-in-law's hair. She explained what a blessing it was to experience that change of heart and what an added blessing it was to have this teenage son, the next generation, stand with her as he witnessed it. It is important to model what God expects of us.
While Melinda may think her heart was the only changing, that act impacted others too. I will never forget the phone call where she told me the story and expressed gratitude...her words were "God changed my heart." In dealing with aging parents, it is important for us to let them know today that they are important.
I will use this as a testimony to change my own actions. There will never be enough time to take a parent to lunch, take them to the nail salon, take them to the hairdresser. Unfortunately, I wish I would have taken my mom to the mall when she could walk without difficulty, I wish I would have taken her to a movie when she could see and hear better, I wish....
Don't let a heart of stone keep you from loving on your aging parents. Ask God to change your heart today. Today is the day-go brush their hair!
I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. Ezekiel 36:26
Special thanks to Melinda Eller for her contribution to today's blog.
I have aging parents and these things are not my forte. I do not do them well. I find it difficult to comb my mother's hair or trim her nails or fix her make-up. On the other hand, I have a sister who excells in this. Two major differences. I was in law enforcement where I built a wall against emotions and she is a nurse where she welcomes caring for others. I have always used that as my "excuse" for thirty years. Now that I am retired and see mom alot more, it is changing. I have discovered another reason for having difficulty in doing those things and it is one that was foreign to me but now very clear.
You see, I remember a vibrant, youthful mom. One that took control; one that corraled her five kids like little chicks in a fenced yard; one that fought for the right; and one that instilled values in her family. The one time I combed her hair, I was so overwhelmed with having lost that mom that I just find it difficult to do.
Five years ago, my mother-in-law had a stroke. Prior to passing away, I was faced with the challenge of "taking care of her in the hospital." Remember, I had never done this before with my own mother. I will tell you that my heart was changed. I cleaned her face, applied lotion, combed her hair. That only lasted for ten days but I live with no regrets, in fact, I am grateful I did it.
I have a father-in-law that is 97 years old and is so independent, praise God we have not found ourselves in that position yet but I will tell you this....I will clean his house, wash his dishes or clean his toilets any day but will probably find it difficult to comb his hair or brush his teeth. Why is that? For me it is the emotion. I know it is an excuse but for thirty years, if I didn't get "emotionally involved" then I would not hurt when something happened. I will tell you that is a false belief!
My son's step mom, Melinda told me a story that was very impacting. She expressed that they would have to move her mother-in-law from her lifetime home almost 1200 miles away, to Houston. She has gotten to the point that she needs assistance with daily life. These decisions can be life impacting for everyone involved. There are full time jobs, schedules, children, and so many other things to consider. Where will she live, who will take care of her, how will this work? Having worked many of those things out, they brought her here and began a new leg to this journey. Melinda explained that she knew her heart was not in this. That reinforced in me what I had done, I hardened my heart with my own mom. I decided that if I had no "soft heart" no emotion, then there would be no pain...wrong. God's word says:
Give proper recognition to those widows who are really in need. But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these whould learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God. 1 Timothy 5:3-4
Melinda went on to say that reluctantly she went to her mother-in-law's new home and discovered that she needed assistance washing her hair. She proceeded to wash her hair and our son walked into the room. He helped by bringing in the shampoo. Melinda went on to describe the overwhelming feeling she had as she slowly felt her hardened heart melting with the washing of her mother-in-law's hair. She explained what a blessing it was to experience that change of heart and what an added blessing it was to have this teenage son, the next generation, stand with her as he witnessed it. It is important to model what God expects of us.
While Melinda may think her heart was the only changing, that act impacted others too. I will never forget the phone call where she told me the story and expressed gratitude...her words were "God changed my heart." In dealing with aging parents, it is important for us to let them know today that they are important.
I will use this as a testimony to change my own actions. There will never be enough time to take a parent to lunch, take them to the nail salon, take them to the hairdresser. Unfortunately, I wish I would have taken my mom to the mall when she could walk without difficulty, I wish I would have taken her to a movie when she could see and hear better, I wish....
Don't let a heart of stone keep you from loving on your aging parents. Ask God to change your heart today. Today is the day-go brush their hair!
I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. Ezekiel 36:26
Special thanks to Melinda Eller for her contribution to today's blog.
Friday, April 13, 2012
Do it everyday
I have been married to my husband for nine years. That is over 32 hundred days. If you ask him how many of those days our bed went unmade, he might say one. This does not includes days one of us woke up sick and had to stay in bed, but it does include every other day. I do not leave my house without making my bed! End of story.
In my career, and event that took place influenced me enough to never leave my house with a messy bed. You do know that they take pictures at crime scenes right? Well, I saw the right pictures and vowed to leave a neatly made bed.
This morning, I went into my son's room. He is gone for the weekend and I can not look at that unmade bed for the next three days so I made it. When we travelled to Lubbock two days ago, we had a discussion. I told him that I make his bed not because I like it but because it gives me the opportunity to pray in his room. I also told him that my sister and I don't pray for our kids "because they are bad" we pray for our kids to keep the enemy from taking hold of them. I told him that I enjoyed doing that every opportunity I got which is basically....when I make his bed.
I went back to my room and flung the comforter and added all the little pillows. As I did so, I thought "I am sooooo dedicated to making this bed everyday. I don't want anyone to come into my house and see a messy bed so why am I not that dedicated to reading my Bible first thing every morning?"
For those of you who think I am perfect, you are about to see the other side. There are days that I wake up, and even retired, I have a packed schedule. I race out of bed, shower, see my Bible at my bedside and think "I'll do it when I get back." Sometimes that does not happen and I am ashamed. How can I have such a commitment to making my bed or having a clean sink and yet I put off my devotion. I am serious about this and hear me when I say "I will not walk out of my house if there is a dish in the sink." I may be loaded down, keys in hand, alarm set and I will stop everything just to wash that dish and put it away." That "thing" in my career impacted me so much that I am now fanatical about this.
I am so concerned that someone would walk into my house in an emergency or in my absence and see dishes in the sink or a messy bed; why am I not just as concerned that Christ might come and ask if I was in the Word today? With this, I have to examine my priorities. Not that I can't remain dedicated to my chores but I must understand that my first priority should be being in the word in the morning.
The Word first, chores second and by the way, when you make your beds use that opportunity to call out to God for those that sleep in that bed and in that household. When I was little, I learned a song like this:
Read your Bible,
Pray everyday
Pray everyday
Pray everyday.
Read your Bible,
Pray everyday
and grow, grow, grow!
Time to grow...and that will only happen by doing this everyday.
As God's fellow workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. For he says "In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you." I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of Salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:1-2
In my career, and event that took place influenced me enough to never leave my house with a messy bed. You do know that they take pictures at crime scenes right? Well, I saw the right pictures and vowed to leave a neatly made bed.
This morning, I went into my son's room. He is gone for the weekend and I can not look at that unmade bed for the next three days so I made it. When we travelled to Lubbock two days ago, we had a discussion. I told him that I make his bed not because I like it but because it gives me the opportunity to pray in his room. I also told him that my sister and I don't pray for our kids "because they are bad" we pray for our kids to keep the enemy from taking hold of them. I told him that I enjoyed doing that every opportunity I got which is basically....when I make his bed.
I went back to my room and flung the comforter and added all the little pillows. As I did so, I thought "I am sooooo dedicated to making this bed everyday. I don't want anyone to come into my house and see a messy bed so why am I not that dedicated to reading my Bible first thing every morning?"
For those of you who think I am perfect, you are about to see the other side. There are days that I wake up, and even retired, I have a packed schedule. I race out of bed, shower, see my Bible at my bedside and think "I'll do it when I get back." Sometimes that does not happen and I am ashamed. How can I have such a commitment to making my bed or having a clean sink and yet I put off my devotion. I am serious about this and hear me when I say "I will not walk out of my house if there is a dish in the sink." I may be loaded down, keys in hand, alarm set and I will stop everything just to wash that dish and put it away." That "thing" in my career impacted me so much that I am now fanatical about this.
I am so concerned that someone would walk into my house in an emergency or in my absence and see dishes in the sink or a messy bed; why am I not just as concerned that Christ might come and ask if I was in the Word today? With this, I have to examine my priorities. Not that I can't remain dedicated to my chores but I must understand that my first priority should be being in the word in the morning.
The Word first, chores second and by the way, when you make your beds use that opportunity to call out to God for those that sleep in that bed and in that household. When I was little, I learned a song like this:
Read your Bible,
Pray everyday
Pray everyday
Pray everyday.
Read your Bible,
Pray everyday
and grow, grow, grow!
Time to grow...and that will only happen by doing this everyday.
As God's fellow workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. For he says "In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you." I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of Salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:1-2
Thursday, April 12, 2012
The message
You have heard of my brother. I speak of him often. He is the older of the bunch and we are 13 months apart. He is our "leader." Our culture is very patriarchal and being the firstborn, he is in charge when there are no parents. Growing up, we had five kids and by the time mom was 28, she had all five of us. Our house was loud unlike my husband's home where he was an only child.
Often, mom would sent the older kids out to play in order to concentrate on the baby. In the days where the entertainment was sticks, rocks and bikes, we often entertained ourselves. I would love it when my brother would be doing something [usually wrong] and mom would send me to deliver a message. It usually went something like this "Mom said you better stop doing that." "Mom said you need to get out of the street" "Mom said you better listen." My brother Lee would often say "She did not say that!"
I loved it because I would always go back with "Moooom, he said you didn't say that." Of course there was usually a snicker with the statement. It's not that I wanted my brother to get in trouble, it's just that he didn't believe me and he was gonna learn! He never listened to me even if the statement started with a "mom said."
Why did he do that? Didn't he know that I was only the messenger? If my mom sent me with the message, then he wasn't defying or rejecting what I said, he was rejecting what mom said. I was mom's "little messenger." He didn't want to hear it because whatever he was doing was fun and he didn't want to stop doing it. Since he didn't actually hear mom's voice saying "don't do it," he didn't think he had to adhere.
My brother was holding on to his title of firstborn and he did not have to listen to me....or so he thought. I bet my brother wouldn't have questioned what my mother said if the words had come out of her mouth and not mine. He ignored me and in ignoring me, he ignored mom's message. It really was okay because just at the right time, my mom would come to my rescue and say "I told her to tell you that now stop it!" Whew, I was safe when it was realized that he was not challenging me, he was challenging her.
I would like to think I am an ambassabor for Christ. I love to tell others of Christ and the salvation that He offers. At times I am questioned, criticized, and challenged. It is then that I have to take comfort in knowing that I am just the messenger, the message comes from Christ. He says in his word, that I am not the one you are rejecting...it is he who you reject. I only deliver the message.
He who listens to you listens to me; he who rejects you rejects me; but he who rejects me rejects him who sent me. Luke 10:16
Often, mom would sent the older kids out to play in order to concentrate on the baby. In the days where the entertainment was sticks, rocks and bikes, we often entertained ourselves. I would love it when my brother would be doing something [usually wrong] and mom would send me to deliver a message. It usually went something like this "Mom said you better stop doing that." "Mom said you need to get out of the street" "Mom said you better listen." My brother Lee would often say "She did not say that!"
I loved it because I would always go back with "Moooom, he said you didn't say that." Of course there was usually a snicker with the statement. It's not that I wanted my brother to get in trouble, it's just that he didn't believe me and he was gonna learn! He never listened to me even if the statement started with a "mom said."
Why did he do that? Didn't he know that I was only the messenger? If my mom sent me with the message, then he wasn't defying or rejecting what I said, he was rejecting what mom said. I was mom's "little messenger." He didn't want to hear it because whatever he was doing was fun and he didn't want to stop doing it. Since he didn't actually hear mom's voice saying "don't do it," he didn't think he had to adhere.
My brother was holding on to his title of firstborn and he did not have to listen to me....or so he thought. I bet my brother wouldn't have questioned what my mother said if the words had come out of her mouth and not mine. He ignored me and in ignoring me, he ignored mom's message. It really was okay because just at the right time, my mom would come to my rescue and say "I told her to tell you that now stop it!" Whew, I was safe when it was realized that he was not challenging me, he was challenging her.
I would like to think I am an ambassabor for Christ. I love to tell others of Christ and the salvation that He offers. At times I am questioned, criticized, and challenged. It is then that I have to take comfort in knowing that I am just the messenger, the message comes from Christ. He says in his word, that I am not the one you are rejecting...it is he who you reject. I only deliver the message.
He who listens to you listens to me; he who rejects you rejects me; but he who rejects me rejects him who sent me. Luke 10:16
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Power
Yesterday as I was driving back into town, I had alot of time on my hands. I noticed as we left Lubbock that there were numerous windmills on large fields. Many windmills. In fact, someone told me before I left "When you see the windmills, you'll know you are in Lubbock." We travelled for miles before they were finally gone.
The road was long and in some places barren. Flat in some places and hilly in others. I can not imagine making that drive too often. Flying is the way to go. However, I did notice one thing. My son was lost in his music and I just took in the "sights." I noticed that since we had left the windmills behind, we had picked up another source of power.
Pretty simple... poles. Yes poles. These poles, which have been around for years, got my attention. I thought "Isn't it interesting how those poles look like a cross." That led to how those poles provide power to light up a room, light up a house, light up a city. All because of the power lines that run through them.
So often I hear and have said myself..."that will never happen." That can be defined as anything. It can be a cure, salvation of a prodigal, a new job, sufficient finances, fill in the blank. God's Word, however; says that anything is possible if God is in it.
Some don't understand this power. It is the power to save even the most lost and I am an example of that. I love seeing reminders of God's work, God's love and God's power. I have been given a reminder of the power of the cross in a simple pole on the side of the road. There is power in the cross!
For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18
The road was long and in some places barren. Flat in some places and hilly in others. I can not imagine making that drive too often. Flying is the way to go. However, I did notice one thing. My son was lost in his music and I just took in the "sights." I noticed that since we had left the windmills behind, we had picked up another source of power.
Pretty simple... poles. Yes poles. These poles, which have been around for years, got my attention. I thought "Isn't it interesting how those poles look like a cross." That led to how those poles provide power to light up a room, light up a house, light up a city. All because of the power lines that run through them.
So often I hear and have said myself..."that will never happen." That can be defined as anything. It can be a cure, salvation of a prodigal, a new job, sufficient finances, fill in the blank. God's Word, however; says that anything is possible if God is in it.
Some don't understand this power. It is the power to save even the most lost and I am an example of that. I love seeing reminders of God's work, God's love and God's power. I have been given a reminder of the power of the cross in a simple pole on the side of the road. There is power in the cross!
For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 1 Corinthians 1:18
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Letting them go
Today I got in my vehicle with my son. I was thinking "great" we can talk. To any parent in my position you probably know what's coming next....ear buds! Ear buds mean you have lost them. At least for the time being. That was okay because it was early in the 9 hour drive and I was nervous about him helping me drive.
Instead, I was able to hear to hear a sermon on KHCB. It was a sermon by Charles Swindoll. He spoke of children and letting them go. "Wow" I thought! Really? This all started with this trip. My husband said "since y'all are going to tour the college, he can help you drive!" "Drive"... I thought, "he's just a child!"
I then remember our friend telling us he had to let his son drive to Dallas as he begins college at a Dallas University. I also remember a breath escaping at another friend that let his daughter drive from the ranch hours away just her and her brother. What am I thinking? These "kids" are 17 and 18 years old. I still could not see my son driving 80 mph in a 75 mph freeway. No! No! No!
Then Charles Swindol talks about allowing kids to get out on their own. You know there are kids that don't ever leave...he spoke of giving them a "Declaration of Independence." That is letting them know they are now adults and on their own. That does not mean to sever the ties as parents but it does mean make them responsible for their adult lives. I can even be comfortable with long distance driving!
My issue was minor...driving! I can not fathom what I would have done if someone cut him off or if we had to pass a big rig. The day is coming and in fact is here when I have to let go. To you parents of seniors I say "be strong!" I, on the other hand am working on that. As time passes, I am dreading the moment when I will actually have to turn the keys over. The vehicle is much bigger than he is used to, the road is foreign, there are big rigs everywhere....oh dear.
All that anxiety and i have driven for hours already when he delivers the news..."Mom, I forgot my wallet!" no wallet, no license...I buckle in for the rest of the drive as he asks "mom, may i take a nap in the back seat." he's still my boy and suddenly, for the moment, letting go isn't that difficult!
Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her. Proverbs 8:10-11
Instead, I was able to hear to hear a sermon on KHCB. It was a sermon by Charles Swindoll. He spoke of children and letting them go. "Wow" I thought! Really? This all started with this trip. My husband said "since y'all are going to tour the college, he can help you drive!" "Drive"... I thought, "he's just a child!"
I then remember our friend telling us he had to let his son drive to Dallas as he begins college at a Dallas University. I also remember a breath escaping at another friend that let his daughter drive from the ranch hours away just her and her brother. What am I thinking? These "kids" are 17 and 18 years old. I still could not see my son driving 80 mph in a 75 mph freeway. No! No! No!
Then Charles Swindol talks about allowing kids to get out on their own. You know there are kids that don't ever leave...he spoke of giving them a "Declaration of Independence." That is letting them know they are now adults and on their own. That does not mean to sever the ties as parents but it does mean make them responsible for their adult lives. I can even be comfortable with long distance driving!
My issue was minor...driving! I can not fathom what I would have done if someone cut him off or if we had to pass a big rig. The day is coming and in fact is here when I have to let go. To you parents of seniors I say "be strong!" I, on the other hand am working on that. As time passes, I am dreading the moment when I will actually have to turn the keys over. The vehicle is much bigger than he is used to, the road is foreign, there are big rigs everywhere....oh dear.
All that anxiety and i have driven for hours already when he delivers the news..."Mom, I forgot my wallet!" no wallet, no license...I buckle in for the rest of the drive as he asks "mom, may i take a nap in the back seat." he's still my boy and suddenly, for the moment, letting go isn't that difficult!
Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her. Proverbs 8:10-11
Sunday, April 8, 2012
He has risen!
They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. Why do you look for the kuvubg among the dead He is not here; He has risen.
Luke 24:2, 5-6
Luke 24:2, 5-6
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Once lost...now found
When I was working full time, I would wake up and make the coffee. I woke up at 4:15 and would head straight for the coffee maker. I could do it with my eyes closed. Fill the pot to 6 cups, put the filter in and add two scoops of Caramel flavored coffee. Not just "two scoops" but two scoops with the special yellow scoop that measured just the right amount of coffee.
Like most of us, that system required steps that I did not deviate from. I was set. When I retired, I no longer woke up at 4:15 so whoever wakes up first makes that coffee and now it fell to my husband. I explained that you use two scoops with the yellow scoop that I had used for years.
Approximately six months ago, he refilled our coffee container and came to tell me that he could not find the yellow scoop. What? No yellow scoop? I have used that for years. I don't know how to measure for six cups without the yellow scoop. I was a little upset [not in an angry way but in a sad way] that there was no more yellow scoop.
I looked under towels, emptied the coffee container to see if it was at the bottom, looked in empty coffee bags, I looked everwhere before I finally resolved that "he" had lost the yellow scoop. I figured "he" probably threw it away by mistake. I did not know how to even begin measuring for that perfect cup of coffee.
I began using a white plastic spoon that was about the size of a table spoon with a cute flower design on the middle of it. It has been trial and error for six months. One day I load it to two heaping spoons...coffee to strong. Then I try two level spoons...too weak. One level, one heaping...still trying to find that perfect cup of coffee to no avail so I settle for just a cup of coffee.
This morning, Saturday morning as my husband and son sleep, I decide I will take advantage of the quiet time and do my devotion. First, I go make coffee. We are out! No coffee in the container. I however, have a secret stash. It is Pumpkin Coffee. I am the only one that uses it so I reach into the cabinet and pull it out. Guess what I find...the yellow scoop! I figure since I am the only one that knows where that coffee is and I am the only one that uses it, I must be the one that left the yellow scoop there! Since Fall was around six months ago, I deduct that "I" must have been the one that left the scoop in the coffee when I put it away. I do the happy dance....I have found my yellow scoop. After six months, a perfect cup of coffee is on the way.
I am reminded of a story we told the kids in Guatemala of the lost sheep. Sure this was just a yellow scoop but I had used it for years. It had travelled with me during moves. How much more happiness would the shepherd display when he found his one lost sheep. He had ninety nine more sheep but he had lost that one.
There was a time when I was lost, walking in the way of darkness, not knowing that the Good Shepherd was looking for me. When I found my way, it was not because I was looking for him, but because HE was looking for me! Can you imagine the happy dance Jesus must have done when I came to him? I once was lost...but now am found...just like my yellow scoop!
Then Jesus told them this parable. "Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' i tell you that in the same way, there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents... Luke 15:3-7
Like most of us, that system required steps that I did not deviate from. I was set. When I retired, I no longer woke up at 4:15 so whoever wakes up first makes that coffee and now it fell to my husband. I explained that you use two scoops with the yellow scoop that I had used for years.
Approximately six months ago, he refilled our coffee container and came to tell me that he could not find the yellow scoop. What? No yellow scoop? I have used that for years. I don't know how to measure for six cups without the yellow scoop. I was a little upset [not in an angry way but in a sad way] that there was no more yellow scoop.
I looked under towels, emptied the coffee container to see if it was at the bottom, looked in empty coffee bags, I looked everwhere before I finally resolved that "he" had lost the yellow scoop. I figured "he" probably threw it away by mistake. I did not know how to even begin measuring for that perfect cup of coffee.
I began using a white plastic spoon that was about the size of a table spoon with a cute flower design on the middle of it. It has been trial and error for six months. One day I load it to two heaping spoons...coffee to strong. Then I try two level spoons...too weak. One level, one heaping...still trying to find that perfect cup of coffee to no avail so I settle for just a cup of coffee.
This morning, Saturday morning as my husband and son sleep, I decide I will take advantage of the quiet time and do my devotion. First, I go make coffee. We are out! No coffee in the container. I however, have a secret stash. It is Pumpkin Coffee. I am the only one that uses it so I reach into the cabinet and pull it out. Guess what I find...the yellow scoop! I figure since I am the only one that knows where that coffee is and I am the only one that uses it, I must be the one that left the yellow scoop there! Since Fall was around six months ago, I deduct that "I" must have been the one that left the scoop in the coffee when I put it away. I do the happy dance....I have found my yellow scoop. After six months, a perfect cup of coffee is on the way.
I am reminded of a story we told the kids in Guatemala of the lost sheep. Sure this was just a yellow scoop but I had used it for years. It had travelled with me during moves. How much more happiness would the shepherd display when he found his one lost sheep. He had ninety nine more sheep but he had lost that one.
There was a time when I was lost, walking in the way of darkness, not knowing that the Good Shepherd was looking for me. When I found my way, it was not because I was looking for him, but because HE was looking for me! Can you imagine the happy dance Jesus must have done when I came to him? I once was lost...but now am found...just like my yellow scoop!
Then Jesus told them this parable. "Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' i tell you that in the same way, there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents... Luke 15:3-7
Friday, April 6, 2012
It's a good Friday
I woke up today and realized my husband was still asleep. I'm thinking it's Saturday and I let him sleep. I make my coffee, let the dogs out and settle back in to relax.
Being 6:00am, and Saturday, I figure I can check in on a home decorating show on TV but then decide against it. I merely meditate and let time pass. At 8:00am he stirs and it is difficult to sleep with one rambuncous puppy. As my husband awakens, I realize it it not Saturday. It is Friday...Good Friday.
My husband's organization, unlike my former organization, gives their employees a holiday off for Good Friday. Last night when we went to sleep, I knew we were attending the Good Friday Service at our church. I even called my son to remind him and yet when I woke up, I still thought it was Saturday.
A few minutes later I got a call from my elderly, widowed neighbor. I took her to Stations at the Cross at our church Wednesday and she was very touched. She called to tell me she had prepared something for me and she would bring it over after she planted some plants in her yard.
I was wide awake by now so I cleaned up and walked across the street. I helped her dig and plant her flowers. She is always thrilled to have the company. We enjoyed the time before we were interrupted by the "mowers." I walked back home and prepared a basket for my son. He is older now but I still like him to know I think about him and reinforce the importance of the holiday.
I am feeling good about today. Yesterday, I visited an officer friend that was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had not seen her since the diagnosis but texted her almost every day. I also brought her a basket filled with a pink bandana, bracelet, eye mask and scripture. I did not know what to expect. When I saw her I was thrilled. She has lost her hair but she looked beautiful. She was enthusiastic, energetic, and full of life. I stayed a few minutes and then prayed for her...it was a good day.
Today, as we recognize the significance of the day, I am grateful for an organization that honors it enough to give their employees the day off. We plan to go to church, have some lunch and spend time with our family.
As I think of that day, the day that Christ took that walk to that hill carrying that cross, the day he took our sins on His shoulders, the day he died to give me life, I am thankful.
I am thankful that I have a Savior who loved me enough to give His life for me. When I live in a country where I can serve the Risen Savior...it's a good Friday. When I can attend church today to honor that Savior....it's a good Friday. When I have my family in tact and everyone is comfortable...it's a good Friday.
This Good Friday, won't you take the time to thank God for sending His Son so that we might have the gift of eternal life. It's a Good Friday.
At the sixth hour darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour, Jesus cried out in a loud vioce, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which means "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" With a loud cry, Jesus breathed his last. Mark 15:33-34, 37
Being 6:00am, and Saturday, I figure I can check in on a home decorating show on TV but then decide against it. I merely meditate and let time pass. At 8:00am he stirs and it is difficult to sleep with one rambuncous puppy. As my husband awakens, I realize it it not Saturday. It is Friday...Good Friday.
My husband's organization, unlike my former organization, gives their employees a holiday off for Good Friday. Last night when we went to sleep, I knew we were attending the Good Friday Service at our church. I even called my son to remind him and yet when I woke up, I still thought it was Saturday.
A few minutes later I got a call from my elderly, widowed neighbor. I took her to Stations at the Cross at our church Wednesday and she was very touched. She called to tell me she had prepared something for me and she would bring it over after she planted some plants in her yard.
I was wide awake by now so I cleaned up and walked across the street. I helped her dig and plant her flowers. She is always thrilled to have the company. We enjoyed the time before we were interrupted by the "mowers." I walked back home and prepared a basket for my son. He is older now but I still like him to know I think about him and reinforce the importance of the holiday.
I am feeling good about today. Yesterday, I visited an officer friend that was diagnosed with breast cancer. I had not seen her since the diagnosis but texted her almost every day. I also brought her a basket filled with a pink bandana, bracelet, eye mask and scripture. I did not know what to expect. When I saw her I was thrilled. She has lost her hair but she looked beautiful. She was enthusiastic, energetic, and full of life. I stayed a few minutes and then prayed for her...it was a good day.
Today, as we recognize the significance of the day, I am grateful for an organization that honors it enough to give their employees the day off. We plan to go to church, have some lunch and spend time with our family.
As I think of that day, the day that Christ took that walk to that hill carrying that cross, the day he took our sins on His shoulders, the day he died to give me life, I am thankful.
I am thankful that I have a Savior who loved me enough to give His life for me. When I live in a country where I can serve the Risen Savior...it's a good Friday. When I can attend church today to honor that Savior....it's a good Friday. When I have my family in tact and everyone is comfortable...it's a good Friday.
This Good Friday, won't you take the time to thank God for sending His Son so that we might have the gift of eternal life. It's a Good Friday.
At the sixth hour darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour, Jesus cried out in a loud vioce, "Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which means "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" With a loud cry, Jesus breathed his last. Mark 15:33-34, 37
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
To Serve
I have shadowed many friends. This year....in several weeks in fact, many of my friends will be saying goodbye to eighteen year olds that will head off to college. Many are first-born, many are an only child, mine is both.
Although he is a junior, he still lives at home and he has come a long way from the "superman" costumes. The days of "dressing him up" are long gone and all the teeth are permanent [and straight]. There is no going back on growing up. Today, my little boy is sick. Remember the days when you had to stay home from work because the daycare wouldn't take them? Remember the nights you stayed awake just to make sure they could breathe through the congestion? It doesn't change.
He woke up sick and stayed home. I had a full day planned out. I had a dental appointment at 8:00, was going to look for a specific sign for Bible Study, wanted to run by the Macy's sale, had to look for a shirt, and none of that with the exception of the dental appointment, happened. Instead, after my appointment I got a phone call "Mooooooom, where are you?" "Can you get me some Gatorade? I need something for my nose, my throat hurts"
All familiar requests except at age 4 they had a little more of a whine. While at the local pharmacy, I decide to pick up some movies because what else can he do with a headache and sore throat? No sooner did I get home with the rememdies than he says "Mom, I'm hungry. I really would like Subway." Off I go to Subway. I order just what he wants and head back home. Once I'm up the stairs he asks "Mom, will you get me a Gatorade from the fridge?" Of course, I walk back down and get it. We watch a movie* he ate his sandwich and then left my bed to fall asleep in his.
As he walks away I think "Wow, that's alot of serving." Then it hits me...he is my son. I love him and when he is sick, I want to serve him. I don't want him to wobble down the stairs in a groggy state to get Gatorade, I don't want him to drive for lunch, I don't want him to run a temperature so I go for the Tylenol.
The bigger issue for me however is that in one year, he will be gone. There will be no more child to serve, no more child to take care of. No more "Mooooooom" from another bedroom. It weighs heavy on me. Into the evening he is still asking for water, gatorade, something for a headache and then he dozes off.
When he is asleep, I walk to his bed and watch him. Just watch him breathe and see how much he has grown. I stare as his eyes are closed and his head is tilted and I wonder...."What else can I do for you." When he is not there I get on my knees and pray for him, for his future, his decisions, his friends.
At times, "serving" may seem laborious, it may disrupt our plan, it may not be on our calendar and all the while, we may only get one shot.
In Mark 10:45 we read "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many." As I watch my son sleep and realize my time with him is short, I ask myself "How does he feel? What does he need? What would make him feel better?" At this point, I'm willing to walk to the store to get him some Gatorade.
Why is it that we feel that way with those we love yet many feel it a drudge to serve Christ? We don't have time, we have other plans, we don't have a ride, we're busy with school business...
My prayer is that I will be enthusiastic about serving my God, my church and my family and that I will serve as serving unto Christ.
Serve wholeheartedly as if you were serving the Lord, not men, because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does..." Ephesians 6:7-8
*The movie we rented One hit From Home, was from RedBox and was a PureFlix production. This was new to us but the preview highlighted another movie titles What If. My son said he would like to see it....I will look for it, maybe for a movie night with my son!
Although he is a junior, he still lives at home and he has come a long way from the "superman" costumes. The days of "dressing him up" are long gone and all the teeth are permanent [and straight]. There is no going back on growing up. Today, my little boy is sick. Remember the days when you had to stay home from work because the daycare wouldn't take them? Remember the nights you stayed awake just to make sure they could breathe through the congestion? It doesn't change.
He woke up sick and stayed home. I had a full day planned out. I had a dental appointment at 8:00, was going to look for a specific sign for Bible Study, wanted to run by the Macy's sale, had to look for a shirt, and none of that with the exception of the dental appointment, happened. Instead, after my appointment I got a phone call "Mooooooom, where are you?" "Can you get me some Gatorade? I need something for my nose, my throat hurts"
All familiar requests except at age 4 they had a little more of a whine. While at the local pharmacy, I decide to pick up some movies because what else can he do with a headache and sore throat? No sooner did I get home with the rememdies than he says "Mom, I'm hungry. I really would like Subway." Off I go to Subway. I order just what he wants and head back home. Once I'm up the stairs he asks "Mom, will you get me a Gatorade from the fridge?" Of course, I walk back down and get it. We watch a movie* he ate his sandwich and then left my bed to fall asleep in his.
As he walks away I think "Wow, that's alot of serving." Then it hits me...he is my son. I love him and when he is sick, I want to serve him. I don't want him to wobble down the stairs in a groggy state to get Gatorade, I don't want him to drive for lunch, I don't want him to run a temperature so I go for the Tylenol.
The bigger issue for me however is that in one year, he will be gone. There will be no more child to serve, no more child to take care of. No more "Mooooooom" from another bedroom. It weighs heavy on me. Into the evening he is still asking for water, gatorade, something for a headache and then he dozes off.
When he is asleep, I walk to his bed and watch him. Just watch him breathe and see how much he has grown. I stare as his eyes are closed and his head is tilted and I wonder...."What else can I do for you." When he is not there I get on my knees and pray for him, for his future, his decisions, his friends.
At times, "serving" may seem laborious, it may disrupt our plan, it may not be on our calendar and all the while, we may only get one shot.
In Mark 10:45 we read "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many." As I watch my son sleep and realize my time with him is short, I ask myself "How does he feel? What does he need? What would make him feel better?" At this point, I'm willing to walk to the store to get him some Gatorade.
Why is it that we feel that way with those we love yet many feel it a drudge to serve Christ? We don't have time, we have other plans, we don't have a ride, we're busy with school business...
My prayer is that I will be enthusiastic about serving my God, my church and my family and that I will serve as serving unto Christ.
Serve wholeheartedly as if you were serving the Lord, not men, because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does..." Ephesians 6:7-8
*The movie we rented One hit From Home, was from RedBox and was a PureFlix production. This was new to us but the preview highlighted another movie titles What If. My son said he would like to see it....I will look for it, maybe for a movie night with my son!
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
What's in a wife
In my ladies bible study classes I am often asked a question to this affect "Do I have to do what my husband wants if it goes against God?" I often direct them to Colossians 3:18:
Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting to the Lord.
At what point do we or can we say "Not this time." There was a wife in the Bible that felt the need to agree with her husband more than she felt the need to be obedient to God. When you mention Sapphira, a story should come to mind. It is a story dealing with a husband, money and obedience.
Her husband, Ananias sold a piece of property and "with his wife's full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself but brought the rest and put it at the apostles' feet." [Acts 5:1-2] Peter questions Ananias in a way that should have pierced his heart. Peter asks questions like "How is it that Satan has filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit?" "How is it that you kept some of the money....you have not lied to man but to God." [v3-4]
Ananias paid for his decision. "When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died." [v5] His decision, his deception and his greed cost him his life. It was not the mere decision to keep money for himself, it was taking from God. In a crime scene, suspects are not allowed to sit together, ride together, or spend time together until all the parties have been interviewed. This minimized the opportunity to "prepare a story."
Scripture says that three hours later, Sapphira came in not knowing what happened to her husband. Peter also asked her to confirm the price Ananias had paid for the land. She stuck by their story. Not knowing he was dead, she supported her husband's story of the price.
Peter told her "How could you agree to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door and they will carry you out also." [v9]
There are things that are not negotiable in our home. One of those is tapping into "God's portion." While everything we have and everything we are belongs to God, it might seem easy to "tap into" proceeds that do not belong to us. Times are tough, the economy is at an all time low but God is still our provider. We must be obedient to His Word.
As a Godly woman and a Godly wife, how would you want your story to read? Would you be a Sapphira who lied to the God, or would you be a woman who speaks with Godly wisdom? My prayer is that God will mold me into a wife that pleases her Lord first, then her husband.
She opens her mouth with Godly wisdom. On her tongue is the law of kindness and faithful instruction. Proverbs 31:26
Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land. Proverbs 31:23
.
Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting to the Lord.
At what point do we or can we say "Not this time." There was a wife in the Bible that felt the need to agree with her husband more than she felt the need to be obedient to God. When you mention Sapphira, a story should come to mind. It is a story dealing with a husband, money and obedience.
Her husband, Ananias sold a piece of property and "with his wife's full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself but brought the rest and put it at the apostles' feet." [Acts 5:1-2] Peter questions Ananias in a way that should have pierced his heart. Peter asks questions like "How is it that Satan has filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit?" "How is it that you kept some of the money....you have not lied to man but to God." [v3-4]
Ananias paid for his decision. "When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died." [v5] His decision, his deception and his greed cost him his life. It was not the mere decision to keep money for himself, it was taking from God. In a crime scene, suspects are not allowed to sit together, ride together, or spend time together until all the parties have been interviewed. This minimized the opportunity to "prepare a story."
Scripture says that three hours later, Sapphira came in not knowing what happened to her husband. Peter also asked her to confirm the price Ananias had paid for the land. She stuck by their story. Not knowing he was dead, she supported her husband's story of the price.
Peter told her "How could you agree to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door and they will carry you out also." [v9]
There are things that are not negotiable in our home. One of those is tapping into "God's portion." While everything we have and everything we are belongs to God, it might seem easy to "tap into" proceeds that do not belong to us. Times are tough, the economy is at an all time low but God is still our provider. We must be obedient to His Word.
As a Godly woman and a Godly wife, how would you want your story to read? Would you be a Sapphira who lied to the God, or would you be a woman who speaks with Godly wisdom? My prayer is that God will mold me into a wife that pleases her Lord first, then her husband.
She opens her mouth with Godly wisdom. On her tongue is the law of kindness and faithful instruction. Proverbs 31:26
Her husband is respected at the city gate, where he takes his seat among the elders of the land. Proverbs 31:23
.
Monday, April 2, 2012
It's in the "eyes"
Yesterday was my first Sunday back to church in two weeks. I missed two Sundays due to a mission trip and then to illness. As I walked into the church, it was buzzing. A friend at the information booth called to my husband, friends from the choir surrounded me, people tugging on me to say hello.
As I spoke with my friends, I saw a gentleman walking towards me. He was wearing a paper mask over his nose and mouth. As he walked past me he said "Good Morning Dee." I have to admit, I did not easily recognize him and being distracted, I simply replied "Good Morning."
As my husband and I moved into the sanctuary, I asked him "who was that?" He did not know either. We found our place and then I walked over to say hello to some friends. As I moved back to my seat, I saw the gentleman again. This time, I looked past the mask, past his new haircut and looked into his eyes. Through the mask I could tell he smiled. Then I saw him. I saw him through his eyes and immediately knew who it was. There is an old proverb that says "The eyes are the window to the soul."
His eyes gave away who he was. I could see he was thinner than when I last visited him and his wife at their home, he had a different hair cut and then of course there was the mask. His wife had informed me that he was ill and as her primary caretaker, the news was very unwelcome. I knew he would be testing and receiving treatment however, two weeks can make a great difference and I was not prepared for the change.
What had not changed was his spirit. He went right to his "designated" seat and took his place next to his wife. Appropriately enough, the sermon was on "not worrying." [Matthew 6:25-34].
He was the man I knew, he was my friend, his spirit was not broken. He was the same person. All I had to do was look into his eyes to know that.
When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they regognized him...Luke 24:30-31
As I spoke with my friends, I saw a gentleman walking towards me. He was wearing a paper mask over his nose and mouth. As he walked past me he said "Good Morning Dee." I have to admit, I did not easily recognize him and being distracted, I simply replied "Good Morning."
As my husband and I moved into the sanctuary, I asked him "who was that?" He did not know either. We found our place and then I walked over to say hello to some friends. As I moved back to my seat, I saw the gentleman again. This time, I looked past the mask, past his new haircut and looked into his eyes. Through the mask I could tell he smiled. Then I saw him. I saw him through his eyes and immediately knew who it was. There is an old proverb that says "The eyes are the window to the soul."
His eyes gave away who he was. I could see he was thinner than when I last visited him and his wife at their home, he had a different hair cut and then of course there was the mask. His wife had informed me that he was ill and as her primary caretaker, the news was very unwelcome. I knew he would be testing and receiving treatment however, two weeks can make a great difference and I was not prepared for the change.
What had not changed was his spirit. He went right to his "designated" seat and took his place next to his wife. Appropriately enough, the sermon was on "not worrying." [Matthew 6:25-34].
He was the man I knew, he was my friend, his spirit was not broken. He was the same person. All I had to do was look into his eyes to know that.
When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they regognized him...Luke 24:30-31
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