Well, the day has past and a new one begins. Our family has returned to their own homes and life returns to normal. We all got together to celebrate a birthday....the birth of Jesus Christ. Today I will remove my tree and decorations.
There is so much to remove and pack. Each ornament must be handled with care, wrapped in tissue and then placed gently in its storage place. The party's over. At least the DAY is....the celebration continues.
You see, while Christmas is about family and giving and togetherness, it's really about the greatest gift we could ever receive. That is the gift of Jesus Christ.
God saw a need in mankind. The need for hope. In seeing that need, He made the ultimate sacrifice. He sent his son-the King of Kings to be born not in a palace but in a lowly manger.
Every year I have a birthday. Because it falls on the shortest month of the year, we celebrate my birthday on my actual birthday (the 6th) and on every remaining day in that month as well.
This season we saw many flock to churches on Christmas Eve to acknowledge the birth of Christ. The question is "How will we acknowledge Him the rest of the year?"
Just like I love celebrating every day, Christ loves to see his people worship as a part of their daily practice not just once or twice a year.
So as this birthday and this year come to a close, why not celebrate the birth of Christ every day and make his gift from you a life committed to worship and serving....everyday.
Happy Birthday Jesus.
For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given... Isaiah 9:6
Sunday, December 28, 2014
Saturday, December 20, 2014
Get out of my way
The other day I left my house to head to school and discovered that rain was falling pretty hard. I did not have my umbrella and I had to make a few trips to my car.
As I was driving down FM 1960, the rain let up but the streets were very wet. Many drivers drove with caution while others completely ignored the speed limit sign of 50. I was in the far lane and went with the flow of traffic but as luck would have it, there was a turtle in front of me. Ugh!
Don't know why it irritated me. I wasn't really in any hurry except that I like to arrive early and mentally prepare for the fifty kids I will be dealing with daily. I was two cars behind the turtle and followed his pace for a while before my irritation level got the best of me. Time to go!
I moved over to the middle lane where traffic was moving much faster despite the wet street. I moved over and my foot felt relief at pressing the accelerator until I caught up and went to pass him. It was then that discovered that he was turning right and leaving 1960 completely.
What? How dare you! After I followed you all this time at YOUR pace and when I move over to drive at my own speed, you , make the decision to turn and get out of everybody's way? If I had just held on for a few more minutes, I could have seen a solution to my problem.
Then it hit me. How often do we say we are waiting on God and waiting on God and waiting on God? When we think God isn't acting fast enough we say under our breath "I've got to make a move because nothing is happening here." We take matters into our own hands only to discover that God was just about to change things before we told him "Get out of my way."
When we tell God to get out of our way, we could be quitting just short of God revealing His plan for our life. Often, a plan that is much better than we could ever orchestrate.
So next time your behind a slow poke remember, before you tell him "get out of my way," think of the lesson God may have in store for you. Second, before you get ahead of God and His plan, think of the consequences or the blessings you'll deprive yourself of by taking matters into your own hands.
I am confident of this, I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. Psalms 27:13-14
As I was driving down FM 1960, the rain let up but the streets were very wet. Many drivers drove with caution while others completely ignored the speed limit sign of 50. I was in the far lane and went with the flow of traffic but as luck would have it, there was a turtle in front of me. Ugh!
Don't know why it irritated me. I wasn't really in any hurry except that I like to arrive early and mentally prepare for the fifty kids I will be dealing with daily. I was two cars behind the turtle and followed his pace for a while before my irritation level got the best of me. Time to go!
I moved over to the middle lane where traffic was moving much faster despite the wet street. I moved over and my foot felt relief at pressing the accelerator until I caught up and went to pass him. It was then that discovered that he was turning right and leaving 1960 completely.
What? How dare you! After I followed you all this time at YOUR pace and when I move over to drive at my own speed, you , make the decision to turn and get out of everybody's way? If I had just held on for a few more minutes, I could have seen a solution to my problem.
Then it hit me. How often do we say we are waiting on God and waiting on God and waiting on God? When we think God isn't acting fast enough we say under our breath "I've got to make a move because nothing is happening here." We take matters into our own hands only to discover that God was just about to change things before we told him "Get out of my way."
When we tell God to get out of our way, we could be quitting just short of God revealing His plan for our life. Often, a plan that is much better than we could ever orchestrate.
So next time your behind a slow poke remember, before you tell him "get out of my way," think of the lesson God may have in store for you. Second, before you get ahead of God and His plan, think of the consequences or the blessings you'll deprive yourself of by taking matters into your own hands.
I am confident of this, I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. Psalms 27:13-14
Monday, December 8, 2014
Cover-Up
I went to church yesterday and I was running late. I had a long, fast paced schedule. I had church in the morning, a get together in the early afternoon and then a church event again in the early evening.
Of course I was running late because of the all time, ever consuming obstacle of what to wear. I always spend between 15-30 minutes just trying to decide what to wear. I had an outfit in mind but I couldn't find my sweater. When I finally located it in the other closet, I discovered some of the collar had unraveled causing a split in the neck area.
The problem was that I really wanted to wear it....so I did! I merely wore my hair down to cover the back of my neck and wore a scarf.
I discovered that once I got to church, I was fidgeting to ensure the tear was not discovered. I had a pretty scarf on that was secured with a pretty pin but still I worried that it would slip and everyone in church would see my sweater. I wore it torn thinking that I would sew it when I got back from church but it's still waiting to be sewn together.
When I left church and went to change clothes, I once again saw my sweater. Feeling relieved I said to myself, "Yes! I did it! I hid the torn collar from the church members." Then I thought about it. How many times do we go into church with holes in our lives and try to hide them from God.
We walk in with "covers" on our sins thinking we're hiding from God. We can not hide! The amazing thing about us walking in trying to "cover our sin" is that we serve a God of grace. When we bring that sin to the throne of grace, God is eager and willing to forgive us of our sin.
So if you come in to church thinking your hiding, don't feel like you need to hide. Turn your sins over to God, confess your sins, and watch God do a new thing. Don't be like me...don't cover up your sin and think you're hiding from God!
Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Hebrews 4:13
Of course I was running late because of the all time, ever consuming obstacle of what to wear. I always spend between 15-30 minutes just trying to decide what to wear. I had an outfit in mind but I couldn't find my sweater. When I finally located it in the other closet, I discovered some of the collar had unraveled causing a split in the neck area.
The problem was that I really wanted to wear it....so I did! I merely wore my hair down to cover the back of my neck and wore a scarf.
I discovered that once I got to church, I was fidgeting to ensure the tear was not discovered. I had a pretty scarf on that was secured with a pretty pin but still I worried that it would slip and everyone in church would see my sweater. I wore it torn thinking that I would sew it when I got back from church but it's still waiting to be sewn together.
When I left church and went to change clothes, I once again saw my sweater. Feeling relieved I said to myself, "Yes! I did it! I hid the torn collar from the church members." Then I thought about it. How many times do we go into church with holes in our lives and try to hide them from God.
We walk in with "covers" on our sins thinking we're hiding from God. We can not hide! The amazing thing about us walking in trying to "cover our sin" is that we serve a God of grace. When we bring that sin to the throne of grace, God is eager and willing to forgive us of our sin.
So if you come in to church thinking your hiding, don't feel like you need to hide. Turn your sins over to God, confess your sins, and watch God do a new thing. Don't be like me...don't cover up your sin and think you're hiding from God!
Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account. Hebrews 4:13
Monday, November 24, 2014
When its gone....it's gone
This weekend my husband and I headed off to the hill country. We took my father-in-law's vehicle to our property, but it was bittersweet as coincidentally, it was the one year anniversary of his passing. On our way home, we reminisced of sweet times with a man that missed living a century by only fourteen months.
My husband spoke of memories at my father-in-law's house which we are preparing to sell. He spoke of being a young boy and running his train on a make-believe track lined on a throw rug in the den. The fire burned as his parents looked on from their comfortable chairs. That was my husband's childhood home.
The conversation was somber as we spoke of memories and dealing with grief. I seldom see him express emotion and asked about it. He stated that sometimes he would get lost reminiscing of times with his father.
We are renovating my father-in-law's house so the tear down was difficult. We found notes that he had left in closets, drawers, and walls but none were as impacting as the kids measurements and ages located on a wall in the laundry room.
When we began the project I noticed the measurements and saw where in 2003, Matthew's name was added to the wall. We were married in 2003 and he became one of the grand kids that year. It was sad to see and I chose to "move on" to other renovations.
At last, we could not delay it any longer. The time came for that wall to be painted like all the rest. I was not there but my husband said that it was quite difficult to put that coat of paint on the wall and erase memories of his mom writing the measurements in pencil.
My response to him was "it's gone!" It is covered up to be seen no more. I told him it is much like sin. When we call upon God and ask him to forgive us of our sins, "he is faithful to and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness" [1 John 1:9].
We want to hold on to sin much like we wanted to hold on to the markings on that wall. Once the decision was made to let it go, it was gone. Unfortunately, when we let go of sin, we always want to take it back. We would be better off to let it go completely, but I will give you fair warning that when you hand God your sin there will always be someone to remind you of your past, bring up your sin, and taunt you about who you were before Christ.
My advice to you is don't listen to those people. Turn your your sin over to God and "when it's gone...it's gone."
...as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. Psalm 103:12
My husband spoke of memories at my father-in-law's house which we are preparing to sell. He spoke of being a young boy and running his train on a make-believe track lined on a throw rug in the den. The fire burned as his parents looked on from their comfortable chairs. That was my husband's childhood home.
The conversation was somber as we spoke of memories and dealing with grief. I seldom see him express emotion and asked about it. He stated that sometimes he would get lost reminiscing of times with his father.
We are renovating my father-in-law's house so the tear down was difficult. We found notes that he had left in closets, drawers, and walls but none were as impacting as the kids measurements and ages located on a wall in the laundry room.
When we began the project I noticed the measurements and saw where in 2003, Matthew's name was added to the wall. We were married in 2003 and he became one of the grand kids that year. It was sad to see and I chose to "move on" to other renovations.
At last, we could not delay it any longer. The time came for that wall to be painted like all the rest. I was not there but my husband said that it was quite difficult to put that coat of paint on the wall and erase memories of his mom writing the measurements in pencil.
My response to him was "it's gone!" It is covered up to be seen no more. I told him it is much like sin. When we call upon God and ask him to forgive us of our sins, "he is faithful to and just to forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness" [1 John 1:9].
We want to hold on to sin much like we wanted to hold on to the markings on that wall. Once the decision was made to let it go, it was gone. Unfortunately, when we let go of sin, we always want to take it back. We would be better off to let it go completely, but I will give you fair warning that when you hand God your sin there will always be someone to remind you of your past, bring up your sin, and taunt you about who you were before Christ.
My advice to you is don't listen to those people. Turn your your sin over to God and "when it's gone...it's gone."
...as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. Psalm 103:12
Sunday, November 23, 2014
Safety First
This weekend my husband and I joined my dad and sister for some deer hunting. Ready to get that big buck or doe for sweet venison dinners. We came locked and loaded as they say. My sister got her first doe of the season earlier and we were looking forward to it.
This year for my birthday dad got me a sweet Remington 243. He had gotten my sister one two years earlier and I finally got mine. I got it in August and my birthday is in February but it wouldn't be dad if he didn't forget one of our birthdays.
We arrived at the cabin and I immediately decide to go out with my sister. Before we went, my husband went over the loading of the weapon. Dad was not going out but warned me about safety. He said "you have to be careful, you're dealing with a weapon and live rounds, this isn't to be toyed with." instinctively I turned and said (respectfully of course) "Dad, I carried a firearm for thirty years-I have had firearms training at one of the finest training facilities in the country."
I thought "I've been through firearms obstacle courses, shoot-don't shoot courses, tactical training courses- why would dad be so worried about me and safety and not my sister?"
As my sister and I walked to the deer stand this safety first thing lingered. I continued to question dad's pursuing this issue with me. It truly did bother me until I equated to my heavenly Father. God constantly warns us in His Word against the dangers of this world and we still walk right into it.
Many times we head out into the world thinking we are sufficiently armed with the Word of God. Truth be known, I become complacent and there is no worst place than being complacent in my faith. Every now and then I need my Heavenly Father to to remind that an enemy lurks and if I don't review, recall, and reclaim the Word of God, I could suffer.
Eventualy I came to the realization that dad was concerned that he was sending his two daughters to the deer stand by themselves, he could not "protect" them. I thank my dad for the reminder of "safety first," and I thank my Heavenly Father for the reminder that I am safe in Him.
Hold me up that I may be safe and have regard for your statues continually. Psalm 119:117
Everyone who goes on ahead and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God. Whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. .2 John 1:9
This year for my birthday dad got me a sweet Remington 243. He had gotten my sister one two years earlier and I finally got mine. I got it in August and my birthday is in February but it wouldn't be dad if he didn't forget one of our birthdays.
We arrived at the cabin and I immediately decide to go out with my sister. Before we went, my husband went over the loading of the weapon. Dad was not going out but warned me about safety. He said "you have to be careful, you're dealing with a weapon and live rounds, this isn't to be toyed with." instinctively I turned and said (respectfully of course) "Dad, I carried a firearm for thirty years-I have had firearms training at one of the finest training facilities in the country."
I thought "I've been through firearms obstacle courses, shoot-don't shoot courses, tactical training courses- why would dad be so worried about me and safety and not my sister?"
As my sister and I walked to the deer stand this safety first thing lingered. I continued to question dad's pursuing this issue with me. It truly did bother me until I equated to my heavenly Father. God constantly warns us in His Word against the dangers of this world and we still walk right into it.
Many times we head out into the world thinking we are sufficiently armed with the Word of God. Truth be known, I become complacent and there is no worst place than being complacent in my faith. Every now and then I need my Heavenly Father to to remind that an enemy lurks and if I don't review, recall, and reclaim the Word of God, I could suffer.
Eventualy I came to the realization that dad was concerned that he was sending his two daughters to the deer stand by themselves, he could not "protect" them. I thank my dad for the reminder of "safety first," and I thank my Heavenly Father for the reminder that I am safe in Him.
Hold me up that I may be safe and have regard for your statues continually. Psalm 119:117
Everyone who goes on ahead and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God. Whoever abides in the teaching has both the Father and the Son. .2 John 1:9
Saturday, November 22, 2014
Who do you represent?
This week was college week at school. Wednesday was "college shirt day" where teachers could wear shirts that represented the college or university they attended. Yippee! Anything to get to wear jeans to school, but I was in a delimma.
You see, my school is ACU! That's right-Abieline Christian University. The purple and white Wildcats. I dug deep until I found my two shirts and had to decide which to wear. One shirt had the school name witten in white block letters on the front the other had a small logo on the front with a large logo and ACU on the back.
The shirt with the white letters did not have a logo on the back it had 1 Corinthians 13:13 written on it in big letters all across the back. It would be hard to miss the verse. I looked at one and then the other and for a split second I thought "What if the school makes me take it off because it might offend someone?"
I was angry at myself for thninking that and immediately thought of the many things that offend Christ and many don't care. I decided I was going to wear the scripture shirt and represent! When my son was younger, I developed a life "verse" that I shared with him daily before he went to school, or out with friends and it is "remember who you represent."
This was my time to represent and I was allowing the trend of society to dictate what I wore because of a scripture on my back. I took the chance that I might be told "someone is offended" or "that is not within the guidelines" but that was a chance I was willing to take.
I wore my ACU shirt and I wore it proud. Some that understood complimented me on the boldness to wear it. To others, sadly, it might just have been seen as a school motto. I am grateful that God provided a way for me to attend this school and represent.....not the school-Him!
And now these three remain: with, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.
1 Corinthians 13:13
We are therefore ambassadors [representatives] for Christ, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. 2 Corinthians 5:20
You see, my school is ACU! That's right-Abieline Christian University. The purple and white Wildcats. I dug deep until I found my two shirts and had to decide which to wear. One shirt had the school name witten in white block letters on the front the other had a small logo on the front with a large logo and ACU on the back.
The shirt with the white letters did not have a logo on the back it had 1 Corinthians 13:13 written on it in big letters all across the back. It would be hard to miss the verse. I looked at one and then the other and for a split second I thought "What if the school makes me take it off because it might offend someone?"
I was angry at myself for thninking that and immediately thought of the many things that offend Christ and many don't care. I decided I was going to wear the scripture shirt and represent! When my son was younger, I developed a life "verse" that I shared with him daily before he went to school, or out with friends and it is "remember who you represent."
This was my time to represent and I was allowing the trend of society to dictate what I wore because of a scripture on my back. I took the chance that I might be told "someone is offended" or "that is not within the guidelines" but that was a chance I was willing to take.
I wore my ACU shirt and I wore it proud. Some that understood complimented me on the boldness to wear it. To others, sadly, it might just have been seen as a school motto. I am grateful that God provided a way for me to attend this school and represent.....not the school-Him!
And now these three remain: with, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.
1 Corinthians 13:13
We are therefore ambassadors [representatives] for Christ, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. 2 Corinthians 5:20
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
Honor God
This morning, as I do every morning, I left the house while it was still dark. I packed my things, let our dogs out and got in my car. Before I got to the second stop sign I heard the radio announcer introduce a kindergarten class from a local school to say the pledge of allegiance.
I listened as these cute kids said it in their ever sweet voice "I pwwedge alliegiance..." I smiled as they said it in unison. I wondered why people don't start off with that every morning. We say it at school and believe me I make my kids stand up, face the flag and repeat the pledge.
As I continued listening, I heard "...and to the repubwic for which it stands one nation, honor God..." Wait! Did I really hear that? Honor God? It should be "one nation, under God" but because these guys still have their baby voice, it sounded like "honor God" and that could not be more true right now.
How amazing if our country took a stronger stance and honored God in our decisions, actions and life. It begins at the top. As a country we are so busy being "tolerant" that we are compromising many of our core values and beliefs. As is evident even here in our own city, we dilute the Word of God and honoring Him becomes more foreign.
I love my country but it's time to remember that we are "one nation, under God" and as such we must strive to Honor God!
If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
2 Chronicles 7:14
I listened as these cute kids said it in their ever sweet voice "I pwwedge alliegiance..." I smiled as they said it in unison. I wondered why people don't start off with that every morning. We say it at school and believe me I make my kids stand up, face the flag and repeat the pledge.
As I continued listening, I heard "...and to the repubwic for which it stands one nation, honor God..." Wait! Did I really hear that? Honor God? It should be "one nation, under God" but because these guys still have their baby voice, it sounded like "honor God" and that could not be more true right now.
How amazing if our country took a stronger stance and honored God in our decisions, actions and life. It begins at the top. As a country we are so busy being "tolerant" that we are compromising many of our core values and beliefs. As is evident even here in our own city, we dilute the Word of God and honoring Him becomes more foreign.
I love my country but it's time to remember that we are "one nation, under God" and as such we must strive to Honor God!
If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
2 Chronicles 7:14
Sunday, November 16, 2014
Who controls the rollercoaster?
Let me tell you just how much I hate roller coasters. I hate roller coasters with a passion. One of my greatest fears, second to snakes is free falling. I know many of you might say that it's my fear because I like having control and there would be much truth in that. I do not like the idea that someone else gets to control me free falling on rails, wearing only a flimsy strap. I don't like it! It instills a deep, painful fear. As much as I love him, I have never been on a roller coaster with my son. At amusement parks, he always had to go with a friend as I watched from below.
This week, my entire family as a group went on a roller coaster ride. My mother suffers from diabetes. It is a terrible, debilitating disease for her. It has taken the mother we once knew and changed her. Long gone are the days of shopping together, watching a play or movie, or just taking a stroll. The disease is robbing her of her eyesight and has severely limited her waking abilities.
Last Friday she finally advised us of a cut that would not heal. When we arrived at the doctor's office it was as we expected...serious. He was not happy that she waited so long to tell some one yet he treated her and sent her home with antibiotics hoping it would help. Unfortunately, having limited eyesight and not being able to walk, my mom failed to keep with the schedule and was admitted into the hospital two days later. Hold on for the roller coaster ride.
Her admitting doctor, a podiatrist surgeon from the initial visit, was not the ER doctor. The ER doctor was someone we knew nothing about, someone we had never met, someone mom was not really comfortable with, and she became the primary doctor by default.
Mom settled into the hospital and the primary doctor administered intravenous antibiotics telling us she thought it would be fine. That made us all happy. Within three days that changed The primary doctor had made a grim diagnosis and threw our family as a whole into a deep, dark place. We were torn between the doctor's decision and mom's unwillingness to submit. Wanting to honor our mother, we waited the few hours we had before a making and accepting a final decision.
In the meantime, her podiatrist had not made a visit and he was the one that knew my mom best. He was the one that for years has taken care of her, he had dealt with this once before, he had both scolded and loved on my mom for many years yet he had not stopped by once. The primary doctor advised that she had texted him, called him, and emailed him requesting that he stop by for a second opinion but she had received no response. We were desperate.
I knew our church was praying, I knew mom was on many prayer lists but I needed more! We needed more! We needed that doctor to see mom and give us direction. We would succumb to his decision.
I, along with my other siblings took our turns sitting in a corner chair watching my mom struggle and we needed more. I needed this doctor to come in...we needed him. I picked up my phone and began to text a dear high school friend who is one of my two strong praying warriors. I merely texted for her to pray that this doctor would come in and see my mom. We needed him, we needed his opinion, we needed answers that only he could provide. We felt like our prayers for direction would be answered through him but in order for that to happen, we needed him to come in.
My friend merely texted back "Praying Now." With that text, I bowed my head and prayed with her in one accord. As I said amen, I lifted my head to look at my mother and out of the corner of my eye, I saw her room door open and an angel walk in. I was stunned! This doctor that we had so fervently prayed for walked in the room literally seconds after the amen.
I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. I was stunned, I was thrilled, I was humbled. This God...the God that I serve, the God that has the power to part the waters, heal the sick, calm the storm, this God had come through in a big way! This doctor may have thought that it was his decision to visit mom but little does he know it was God that moved him to come.
The news gets better. During his visit, he disagreed with the primary doctor and opted to continue IV antibiotics for another forty eight hours. Such amazing news! I can't tell you how it felt to text my siblings and tell them and my father the good news. Within two days, mom was home. I had taken a ride on the roller coaster I so deeply fear. I would have to agree that the issue is control. I don't want someone at the controls dictating speed, motion or anything else. while this roller coaster was a rough ride, we felt safe because we knew the God we serve and trust is in control and He did not fail us, God brought us through.
My mom's road to recovery will be long and difficult as elements of life as she knew it have changed. I am grateful to all the prayer warriors, friends and family that reached out to us during this difficult time. I love my family and know how much this matriarch means-not only to us, but to many of our extended family as well.
And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:15-16
Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them. Matthew 18:19
Thank you Ruth Torres Orasco for your ministry In One Accord and for including me and Lydia Guerra Lewis in praying for our friend.
This week, my entire family as a group went on a roller coaster ride. My mother suffers from diabetes. It is a terrible, debilitating disease for her. It has taken the mother we once knew and changed her. Long gone are the days of shopping together, watching a play or movie, or just taking a stroll. The disease is robbing her of her eyesight and has severely limited her waking abilities.
Last Friday she finally advised us of a cut that would not heal. When we arrived at the doctor's office it was as we expected...serious. He was not happy that she waited so long to tell some one yet he treated her and sent her home with antibiotics hoping it would help. Unfortunately, having limited eyesight and not being able to walk, my mom failed to keep with the schedule and was admitted into the hospital two days later. Hold on for the roller coaster ride.
Her admitting doctor, a podiatrist surgeon from the initial visit, was not the ER doctor. The ER doctor was someone we knew nothing about, someone we had never met, someone mom was not really comfortable with, and she became the primary doctor by default.
Mom settled into the hospital and the primary doctor administered intravenous antibiotics telling us she thought it would be fine. That made us all happy. Within three days that changed The primary doctor had made a grim diagnosis and threw our family as a whole into a deep, dark place. We were torn between the doctor's decision and mom's unwillingness to submit. Wanting to honor our mother, we waited the few hours we had before a making and accepting a final decision.
In the meantime, her podiatrist had not made a visit and he was the one that knew my mom best. He was the one that for years has taken care of her, he had dealt with this once before, he had both scolded and loved on my mom for many years yet he had not stopped by once. The primary doctor advised that she had texted him, called him, and emailed him requesting that he stop by for a second opinion but she had received no response. We were desperate.
I knew our church was praying, I knew mom was on many prayer lists but I needed more! We needed more! We needed that doctor to see mom and give us direction. We would succumb to his decision.
I, along with my other siblings took our turns sitting in a corner chair watching my mom struggle and we needed more. I needed this doctor to come in...we needed him. I picked up my phone and began to text a dear high school friend who is one of my two strong praying warriors. I merely texted for her to pray that this doctor would come in and see my mom. We needed him, we needed his opinion, we needed answers that only he could provide. We felt like our prayers for direction would be answered through him but in order for that to happen, we needed him to come in.
My friend merely texted back "Praying Now." With that text, I bowed my head and prayed with her in one accord. As I said amen, I lifted my head to look at my mother and out of the corner of my eye, I saw her room door open and an angel walk in. I was stunned! This doctor that we had so fervently prayed for walked in the room literally seconds after the amen.
I didn't know whether to laugh or cry. I was stunned, I was thrilled, I was humbled. This God...the God that I serve, the God that has the power to part the waters, heal the sick, calm the storm, this God had come through in a big way! This doctor may have thought that it was his decision to visit mom but little does he know it was God that moved him to come.
The news gets better. During his visit, he disagreed with the primary doctor and opted to continue IV antibiotics for another forty eight hours. Such amazing news! I can't tell you how it felt to text my siblings and tell them and my father the good news. Within two days, mom was home. I had taken a ride on the roller coaster I so deeply fear. I would have to agree that the issue is control. I don't want someone at the controls dictating speed, motion or anything else. while this roller coaster was a rough ride, we felt safe because we knew the God we serve and trust is in control and He did not fail us, God brought us through.
My mom's road to recovery will be long and difficult as elements of life as she knew it have changed. I am grateful to all the prayer warriors, friends and family that reached out to us during this difficult time. I love my family and know how much this matriarch means-not only to us, but to many of our extended family as well.
And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:15-16
Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them. Matthew 18:19
Thank you Ruth Torres Orasco for your ministry In One Accord and for including me and Lydia Guerra Lewis in praying for our friend.
Saturday, November 15, 2014
He knows my name
Early in this school year I was called to serve as a long term substitute at a local school. I was teaching a kindergarten class of approximately twenty five children. I had to learn everyone's name and began by using name tags.
For weeks I called Edward - Hector and Angie -Abigail. You could hear me calling a child four names before I finally got the child's name right. By the end of my tenure of six weeks, I had no problem. I could look at a child and call them by their proper name. That was weeks ago.
Today, I returned to the same school for another assignment. I returned to cover a fourth grade class and dealt with the same issue. As I walked to lunch thinking of a way to remember names [fourth graders are not receptive to name tags], I walked past the kinder class with all those kids. When they looked out the window they yelled "Mrrrrrrrsssssss. Barfield!" I lifted my hand to wave and said "Hi......uh.....mmm...." I couldn't remember their names.
It had only been four weeks I had already forgotten most of their names. Another teacher who had also subbed in that class talked about a child and said "You remember her don't you?" I had to say that I remembered the behavior but not the child's name.
That actually made me think about God. He knows all our names and there are billions of us! There is no time apart, no vacation, no "lost in action" that can keep God from knowing our name! Many people fear that God remembers our behavior but not our name when in reality, the reverse is true. Isn't that amazing? To any in this world thinking that God has forgotten their name. To them I say "Not so!"
In thinking about this new class of fourth graders, and how to remember twenty new names, I thought "What if I used cheat sheet?" I could write the children's names on my hand I look at my hand to recall their names. If you know anything about me, you know that I could make that system work.
What a sweeeeet idea! Then anytime I needed to call them by name, I could do so by looking at the names written on my hand. The only problem is that I would have to write the names on my hand each time I washed them and there is no time for that.
I am human and it seems that the older I get, the more forgetful I become. You can not depend on me to remember 50 [split classes] names. I remember the class helpers, the busybodies, and the instigators. Unfortunately, in some cases, those who sit quietly, do their work and don't bother anybody are the ones that hear the question "I'm sorry, what's your name?"
Does God have a system? Does He have a cheat sheet? I can't answer that but I can say He knows you by name. How do I know that, because He said so. You are the one He died for. You and me!
God doesn't and won't ask "What is your name?" like I do. When those nails were driven into the palms of his hands, your name was written on them. If no one else in the world remembers you by name, take confidence in knowing that God knows your name.
"Can a mother forget her baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!
See, I have engraved you [your name] on the palms of my hands...." Isaiah 49:15
For weeks I called Edward - Hector and Angie -Abigail. You could hear me calling a child four names before I finally got the child's name right. By the end of my tenure of six weeks, I had no problem. I could look at a child and call them by their proper name. That was weeks ago.
Today, I returned to the same school for another assignment. I returned to cover a fourth grade class and dealt with the same issue. As I walked to lunch thinking of a way to remember names [fourth graders are not receptive to name tags], I walked past the kinder class with all those kids. When they looked out the window they yelled "Mrrrrrrrsssssss. Barfield!" I lifted my hand to wave and said "Hi......uh.....mmm...." I couldn't remember their names.
It had only been four weeks I had already forgotten most of their names. Another teacher who had also subbed in that class talked about a child and said "You remember her don't you?" I had to say that I remembered the behavior but not the child's name.
That actually made me think about God. He knows all our names and there are billions of us! There is no time apart, no vacation, no "lost in action" that can keep God from knowing our name! Many people fear that God remembers our behavior but not our name when in reality, the reverse is true. Isn't that amazing? To any in this world thinking that God has forgotten their name. To them I say "Not so!"
In thinking about this new class of fourth graders, and how to remember twenty new names, I thought "What if I used cheat sheet?" I could write the children's names on my hand I look at my hand to recall their names. If you know anything about me, you know that I could make that system work.
What a sweeeeet idea! Then anytime I needed to call them by name, I could do so by looking at the names written on my hand. The only problem is that I would have to write the names on my hand each time I washed them and there is no time for that.
I am human and it seems that the older I get, the more forgetful I become. You can not depend on me to remember 50 [split classes] names. I remember the class helpers, the busybodies, and the instigators. Unfortunately, in some cases, those who sit quietly, do their work and don't bother anybody are the ones that hear the question "I'm sorry, what's your name?"
Does God have a system? Does He have a cheat sheet? I can't answer that but I can say He knows you by name. How do I know that, because He said so. You are the one He died for. You and me!
God doesn't and won't ask "What is your name?" like I do. When those nails were driven into the palms of his hands, your name was written on them. If no one else in the world remembers you by name, take confidence in knowing that God knows your name.
"Can a mother forget her baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you!
See, I have engraved you [your name] on the palms of my hands...." Isaiah 49:15
Friday, November 7, 2014
Is it true?
Yesterday I heard a story about beanie babies. I don't have a collection per say but I do have a few that are special. I have a purple one embroidered with 70 X 7 representing Matthew 18:21-22. I also have a brown bear given to me by a friend, a bear representing my favorite place-San Diego, California and a few others.
I was told by someone that they had heard "those beanie babies are filled with Brown Recluse spider eggs and they will all hatch at the same time [causing many deaths]." The first thing I thought was "that's not true." One reason I thought that was because I have had those babies for years and they are still in tact.
The biggest reason I didn't believe it is because of the element of truth. According to Orkin "Brown Recluse eggs do not lay dormant for 20 years..." Also the creator, Ty Warner used a "poseable lining and plastic pellets rather than conventional stuffing." This story was apparently a joke on a social media website that caused fear, but many believed this story.
I have written several times on truth and I will once again. How do you know if what you hear is the truth? Commit it to prayer and God will reveal it to you. Often we believe a lie because it sounds so real, it sounds so true! Perhaps the one who is telling you that lie is very believable. My advise to you is to seek the truth in Christ.
In the times of Paul the Apostle, people were living in a very pagan society. They were drowning in their sin and they like us, needed a Savior. They did not want to hear the truth of Jesus Christ. Many today choose to have "selective belief" and follow their own desires rather than the truth of the Word of God.
We serve a God who has compassion on his people. We have a God who is slow to anger and full of compassion. [Exodus 34:6] However, we can not continue to test God. We can not exchange the truth of God for a lie simply because it sounds right or sounds believable.
If you have a question about God, his goodness, his plan, eternal life or salvation, let me guide you to the truth! It is found in the Word of God. When you hear something that "just doesn't sound right" don't fall for it....look for the truth. Many people carry heavy burdens because they exchanged the truth for a lie! Believe in the one who laid the path to truth... Jesus Christ.
They exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator- who is forever praised. Romans 1:25
Orkin Pest Control
Ty Warner (c) Beanie Babies, Oakbrook, Il. 1986
I was told by someone that they had heard "those beanie babies are filled with Brown Recluse spider eggs and they will all hatch at the same time [causing many deaths]." The first thing I thought was "that's not true." One reason I thought that was because I have had those babies for years and they are still in tact.
The biggest reason I didn't believe it is because of the element of truth. According to Orkin "Brown Recluse eggs do not lay dormant for 20 years..." Also the creator, Ty Warner used a "poseable lining and plastic pellets rather than conventional stuffing." This story was apparently a joke on a social media website that caused fear, but many believed this story.
I have written several times on truth and I will once again. How do you know if what you hear is the truth? Commit it to prayer and God will reveal it to you. Often we believe a lie because it sounds so real, it sounds so true! Perhaps the one who is telling you that lie is very believable. My advise to you is to seek the truth in Christ.
In the times of Paul the Apostle, people were living in a very pagan society. They were drowning in their sin and they like us, needed a Savior. They did not want to hear the truth of Jesus Christ. Many today choose to have "selective belief" and follow their own desires rather than the truth of the Word of God.
We serve a God who has compassion on his people. We have a God who is slow to anger and full of compassion. [Exodus 34:6] However, we can not continue to test God. We can not exchange the truth of God for a lie simply because it sounds right or sounds believable.
If you have a question about God, his goodness, his plan, eternal life or salvation, let me guide you to the truth! It is found in the Word of God. When you hear something that "just doesn't sound right" don't fall for it....look for the truth. Many people carry heavy burdens because they exchanged the truth for a lie! Believe in the one who laid the path to truth... Jesus Christ.
They exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator- who is forever praised. Romans 1:25
Orkin Pest Control
Ty Warner (c) Beanie Babies, Oakbrook, Il. 1986
Wednesday, November 5, 2014
Teach them
This week I have been taking care of my great niece, it is this experience that makes you realize you are getting old. She is full of energy and at 18 months, certainly can out run me. When she sleeps, she is the image of her mother at that age.
The other day she had a very active day and I could not get her down for a nap. I laid her down and she would pop right back up with that cheesy four tooth grin. I kept saying "Victoria Grace- go nite nite" and you would think I was telling her to go run a marathon.
Finally I got her down and her eyes got heavy. I laid down next to her and closed my eyes. I began humming some songs. I hummed Rock-a-By-Baby; Amazing Grace, and several other songs. Having run out of options, I started humming Itsy Bitsy Spider.
As I sang, I opened my eyes to see if she was sleeping. Her eyes were closed and she was relaxed but I noticed that as I hummed that song, her little hands were making the motions. The sound of Itsy-Bitsy-Spider drove her to do what she knew, the motions to the song!
If an 18 month old reverts to what she has been taught, why don't we? Someone took the time to teach this child that song and the motions.
Long ago, I taught my son to learn scripture, to love Christ and to cling to Him in times of success and tragedy- basically, trust Him always. I learned that from parents who invested in me and taught me to love and serve Christ.
Proverbs 22:6 says "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn for it."
Children are never too young to be taught and adults will never be to old. So if no one taught you the Word of God, I invite you to open it up and learn what God has to say them teach others.
These commandments I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home, and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Deuteronomy 6:6-7
The other day she had a very active day and I could not get her down for a nap. I laid her down and she would pop right back up with that cheesy four tooth grin. I kept saying "Victoria Grace- go nite nite" and you would think I was telling her to go run a marathon.
Finally I got her down and her eyes got heavy. I laid down next to her and closed my eyes. I began humming some songs. I hummed Rock-a-By-Baby; Amazing Grace, and several other songs. Having run out of options, I started humming Itsy Bitsy Spider.
As I sang, I opened my eyes to see if she was sleeping. Her eyes were closed and she was relaxed but I noticed that as I hummed that song, her little hands were making the motions. The sound of Itsy-Bitsy-Spider drove her to do what she knew, the motions to the song!
If an 18 month old reverts to what she has been taught, why don't we? Someone took the time to teach this child that song and the motions.
Long ago, I taught my son to learn scripture, to love Christ and to cling to Him in times of success and tragedy- basically, trust Him always. I learned that from parents who invested in me and taught me to love and serve Christ.
Proverbs 22:6 says "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn for it."
Children are never too young to be taught and adults will never be to old. So if no one taught you the Word of God, I invite you to open it up and learn what God has to say them teach others.
These commandments I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home, and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Deuteronomy 6:6-7
Thursday, October 30, 2014
Father won't you forgive them
Yesterday as we worked around the house, my husband was oblivious to the song playing on the radio but I hung on every word. You see, I am a huge advocate of forgiveness although it is not an easy task to forgive someone who has wronged you.
Ann Lamont wrote "Not forgiving is like drinking rat poison and expecting the rat to die." When I speak or teach on forgiveness, I often say "Not forgiving someone is like you drinking poison expecting the other person to die."
The song on the radio was Losing by Tenth Avenue North. The lyrics, that were tugging at me were:
Father won't you forgive them? They don't know what they are doing...
Oh, Father give me grace to forgive them, cause I feel like the one losing.
Yup! I am called to forgive. The human mind does not often comprehend that. The human mind comprehends "get even!" That is what our very soul wants....payback! To not get that makes me "feel like the one losing."
The God that we serve calls us to forgive. Yes- you may have been the one offended, yes-you may be the one that lost in the deal, yes-it may have cost a friendship but yes-you are called to forgive. I bore the burden of not forgiving for many years. The other person went on living life with no thought to what they had done or how that had affected me for a lifetime.
Living a Christian life requires us to be obedient. Forgiveness is a part of that life. Even Christ as he hung on the cross looked down at his offenders and cried out "Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing...[Luke 23:34]
As Christians, we know what is required of us. I get it! I know that sometimes the hurt and pain are overwhelming. I do not make light of this issue. For some, forgiveness is necessary when they borrow a dress and it's never returned and it costs you the friendship; however, for others, the issue of forgiveness lies in a theft of a precious heirloom or inheritance, a situation where there was a crime involved, or maybe an abuse of power.
Those are big issues. I have been offended but if I give it thought, I have also been the offender. Consider where you would be if Christ had not died to forgive you of your sins or mine.
That's why the song was so impacting. I was crying out "I feel like the one losing." Yet wasn't it our Savior that lost his life to save me? In light of that situation, what a small price for me to pay....forgiving.
So today, if there is a situation you need to address through forgiving....don't hesitate. I understand that it may be painful, I understand that much time may have passed since the offense, and I understand that it may be difficult...but I also understand that we serve a forgiving, loving God and with him, nothing is impossible.
He took on our sins and He forgave us. He gave His life for us, to free us from our sins. Won't you free yourself by forgiving others? When we forgive, we don't forgive to free others, we forgive to free ourselves from that burden. You are not losing...in forgiveness, you win!
Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13
Struggle CD, Tenth Avenue North-Losing (c) 2012
Ann Lamont wrote "Not forgiving is like drinking rat poison and expecting the rat to die." When I speak or teach on forgiveness, I often say "Not forgiving someone is like you drinking poison expecting the other person to die."
The song on the radio was Losing by Tenth Avenue North. The lyrics, that were tugging at me were:
Father won't you forgive them? They don't know what they are doing...
Oh, Father give me grace to forgive them, cause I feel like the one losing.
Yup! I am called to forgive. The human mind does not often comprehend that. The human mind comprehends "get even!" That is what our very soul wants....payback! To not get that makes me "feel like the one losing."
The God that we serve calls us to forgive. Yes- you may have been the one offended, yes-you may be the one that lost in the deal, yes-it may have cost a friendship but yes-you are called to forgive. I bore the burden of not forgiving for many years. The other person went on living life with no thought to what they had done or how that had affected me for a lifetime.
Living a Christian life requires us to be obedient. Forgiveness is a part of that life. Even Christ as he hung on the cross looked down at his offenders and cried out "Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing...[Luke 23:34]
As Christians, we know what is required of us. I get it! I know that sometimes the hurt and pain are overwhelming. I do not make light of this issue. For some, forgiveness is necessary when they borrow a dress and it's never returned and it costs you the friendship; however, for others, the issue of forgiveness lies in a theft of a precious heirloom or inheritance, a situation where there was a crime involved, or maybe an abuse of power.
Those are big issues. I have been offended but if I give it thought, I have also been the offender. Consider where you would be if Christ had not died to forgive you of your sins or mine.
That's why the song was so impacting. I was crying out "I feel like the one losing." Yet wasn't it our Savior that lost his life to save me? In light of that situation, what a small price for me to pay....forgiving.
So today, if there is a situation you need to address through forgiving....don't hesitate. I understand that it may be painful, I understand that much time may have passed since the offense, and I understand that it may be difficult...but I also understand that we serve a forgiving, loving God and with him, nothing is impossible.
He took on our sins and He forgave us. He gave His life for us, to free us from our sins. Won't you free yourself by forgiving others? When we forgive, we don't forgive to free others, we forgive to free ourselves from that burden. You are not losing...in forgiveness, you win!
Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13
Struggle CD, Tenth Avenue North-Losing (c) 2012
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Covered
On the last day of our cruise, I broke a nail. I didn't fret, I simply put a band aid on it, certain that I could repair it the next day. True to my belief, I went to the nail shop to get it repaired. While I was there, the girl informed me that it was time to "re-do" all of my nails.
You see, these are my real nails. I simply have a coat of acrylic over them to strengthen them. The acrylic has gotten old and I needed to strip the old and apply a new layer. This is done about once a year but it had been about three years for me. I simply kept going in to reapply and fix the old acrylic.
I gave in and said "just do it." I soaked my nails for about 30 minutes and before I knew it, all the acrylic was off and I had my original nails. I must say that after they were stripped, they looked rough. Sure, they were still long, but some were jagged at the ends, some were thin and one even had a hole in it.
I thought "Wow, if people could only see the real nail, they would never believe the finished product." As she proceeded with the process and applied the acrylic, it was transparent enough that although strong, I could still see the flaws. The more she did, the better they looked. Then the final step, the fingernail polish. I selected a pretty fall color that covered all the flaws and made for a beautiful set of nails.
As I sat there and allowed her to file, shape, and polish my nails I thought of how sin is much the same. We allow sin in our life and it is ugly. Sometimes we just hide the ugly and don't bother to change it. Sin changes our look, our thoughts and our actions. We can try to cover it up but we still see it. It isn't until we allow God to take control and cover our sin with the blood that He shed that we can no longer see it in us.
When we finally come to Christ, when we finally say "Okay, just do it" when we finally give in to be stripped of our sin and allow God to shape us and clean us up and cover our sin with His blood, only then will we see the final product of forgiveness and renewing.
God gave His only Son so that we might be set free and cleansed from our sin. Isn't it time for you to give in and bring your sins to Him so that they can be covered?
As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our sins from us. Psalms 103:11
If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sin, he is faithful and just to forgive our sin and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
You see, these are my real nails. I simply have a coat of acrylic over them to strengthen them. The acrylic has gotten old and I needed to strip the old and apply a new layer. This is done about once a year but it had been about three years for me. I simply kept going in to reapply and fix the old acrylic.
I gave in and said "just do it." I soaked my nails for about 30 minutes and before I knew it, all the acrylic was off and I had my original nails. I must say that after they were stripped, they looked rough. Sure, they were still long, but some were jagged at the ends, some were thin and one even had a hole in it.
I thought "Wow, if people could only see the real nail, they would never believe the finished product." As she proceeded with the process and applied the acrylic, it was transparent enough that although strong, I could still see the flaws. The more she did, the better they looked. Then the final step, the fingernail polish. I selected a pretty fall color that covered all the flaws and made for a beautiful set of nails.
As I sat there and allowed her to file, shape, and polish my nails I thought of how sin is much the same. We allow sin in our life and it is ugly. Sometimes we just hide the ugly and don't bother to change it. Sin changes our look, our thoughts and our actions. We can try to cover it up but we still see it. It isn't until we allow God to take control and cover our sin with the blood that He shed that we can no longer see it in us.
When we finally come to Christ, when we finally say "Okay, just do it" when we finally give in to be stripped of our sin and allow God to shape us and clean us up and cover our sin with His blood, only then will we see the final product of forgiveness and renewing.
God gave His only Son so that we might be set free and cleansed from our sin. Isn't it time for you to give in and bring your sins to Him so that they can be covered?
As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our sins from us. Psalms 103:11
If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sin, he is faithful and just to forgive our sin and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9
Monday, October 27, 2014
Daily Conversations
I have a beautiful sister-in-law that had an amazing relationship with her grandmother. They were inseparable. She told me that everyday on her way to work, she would call her and they would talk all the way to the office. She loved her conversations with her.
Grandma is no longer with us. My sister-in-law says she misses her very much. She said that her first day back to work without her grandmother was the worst. She had to make the trip without that phone conversation she was so accustomed to having with her.
They were very close and spent much time together. I remember her telling me once that they had gone to the movies together. The movies at 80! They had a very special relationship and spent much time together.
I stop and think of my relationship with God and wonder if I have a conversation with Him everyday. I wonder if I told Him how grateful I am that still have both my parents or did I just complain about having to take mom to another doctor's appointment.
Did I talk to God and thank Him for our kids and their safety or did I just complain about how much tuition is and how we never get to see them? Did I thank God for the comfort of retirement or complain about everything I have to do forgetting that if I was working, I would not have the time to get it all done.
Did I thank God for loyal friends or complain about the ones that "did me wrong" and hope that they get "what's due them?" What are my conversations with God like and do I miss them when I get in a hurry to start my day and move on without them?
God's Word speaks about guarding your heart [Proverbs 4:23]. Sometimes we forget where our heart should be focused. We get caught up in the circumstances of our life and allow them to overwhelm and often, overtake us.
I want to have a relationship with Christ that allows me to crave conversations with him. I don't want to get so caught up with "life" that I miss those. I want to talk to Him daily so that I remember that I am the one that is suppose to make the difference....the one that is suppose to be the light in this dark world.
Lately, I have had an assignment that has kept me so busy that I have found myself waking up in a hurry to get on with the day, sometimes foregoing that conversation with Him. I get going and before you know it I am on the road. Oh sure, I listen to that morning sermon on 105.7 but I'm listening....not talking to God.
I find that when I am in conversation with God, He truly speaks. This morning's conversation took me to Jeremiah 17. It reminded me that when I don't focus on God, when I focus on circumstances, my heart will give in. But when my heart and my head are focused on God, He will take care of the rest.
So I will continue to be in conversation with my God. I will continue to believe His Word and difficult as it may be, I will continue to obey. Have you had your conversation with God today?
The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve. Jeremiah 17:9-10
Grandma is no longer with us. My sister-in-law says she misses her very much. She said that her first day back to work without her grandmother was the worst. She had to make the trip without that phone conversation she was so accustomed to having with her.
They were very close and spent much time together. I remember her telling me once that they had gone to the movies together. The movies at 80! They had a very special relationship and spent much time together.
I stop and think of my relationship with God and wonder if I have a conversation with Him everyday. I wonder if I told Him how grateful I am that still have both my parents or did I just complain about having to take mom to another doctor's appointment.
Did I talk to God and thank Him for our kids and their safety or did I just complain about how much tuition is and how we never get to see them? Did I thank God for the comfort of retirement or complain about everything I have to do forgetting that if I was working, I would not have the time to get it all done.
Did I thank God for loyal friends or complain about the ones that "did me wrong" and hope that they get "what's due them?" What are my conversations with God like and do I miss them when I get in a hurry to start my day and move on without them?
God's Word speaks about guarding your heart [Proverbs 4:23]. Sometimes we forget where our heart should be focused. We get caught up in the circumstances of our life and allow them to overwhelm and often, overtake us.
I want to have a relationship with Christ that allows me to crave conversations with him. I don't want to get so caught up with "life" that I miss those. I want to talk to Him daily so that I remember that I am the one that is suppose to make the difference....the one that is suppose to be the light in this dark world.
Lately, I have had an assignment that has kept me so busy that I have found myself waking up in a hurry to get on with the day, sometimes foregoing that conversation with Him. I get going and before you know it I am on the road. Oh sure, I listen to that morning sermon on 105.7 but I'm listening....not talking to God.
I find that when I am in conversation with God, He truly speaks. This morning's conversation took me to Jeremiah 17. It reminded me that when I don't focus on God, when I focus on circumstances, my heart will give in. But when my heart and my head are focused on God, He will take care of the rest.
So I will continue to be in conversation with my God. I will continue to believe His Word and difficult as it may be, I will continue to obey. Have you had your conversation with God today?
The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it? I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve. Jeremiah 17:9-10
Sunday, October 26, 2014
What is required?
We are back. My husband and I took a much needed vacation but we are now back from a seven day cruise to the Caribbean. What a great time to just get away and relax. Unfortunately, we came back to some disturbing news.
It made me think of all my friends that are currently passing through some very difficult trials. One can not help but thank God for his omnipotence. Yes, omnipotence! While one might say "Omnipotence would be me being able to avoid the trial." Trials are our "refining!"
Trials are God's way of saying "You are totally reliant on me to bring you through this." A few years ago when I suffered my own trial, I hated hearing "Before a trial comes to you, it has to go through God's hands." I figured that meant that God was okay with me suffering as deeply as I suffered but what it really meant was that He is big enough to hold you through that trial and meet you on the other side of it.
I woke up this morning and thanked God for His power and His wisdom and His faith in us to believe that we would do what He would require of us and not what our flesh wants to do, despite the wrong in the situation. You see, people will fail you that's just a given. We are not perfect human beings and fleshly desires like selfishness, greed and pride may often overtake us. As I moved on this morning to do my devotion, God led me to another portion of His word that gave me comfort. I discovered that when God has spoken, nothing else needs to be said.
I am grateful for the reminder of what is required of me!
Do not trust a neighbor; put no confidence in a friend. Even with her who lies in your embrace be careful of her words. For a son dishonors his father, a daughter rises up against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law---a man's enemies are the members of his own household. But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.
Micah 7:5-7
And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8
It made me think of all my friends that are currently passing through some very difficult trials. One can not help but thank God for his omnipotence. Yes, omnipotence! While one might say "Omnipotence would be me being able to avoid the trial." Trials are our "refining!"
Trials are God's way of saying "You are totally reliant on me to bring you through this." A few years ago when I suffered my own trial, I hated hearing "Before a trial comes to you, it has to go through God's hands." I figured that meant that God was okay with me suffering as deeply as I suffered but what it really meant was that He is big enough to hold you through that trial and meet you on the other side of it.
I woke up this morning and thanked God for His power and His wisdom and His faith in us to believe that we would do what He would require of us and not what our flesh wants to do, despite the wrong in the situation. You see, people will fail you that's just a given. We are not perfect human beings and fleshly desires like selfishness, greed and pride may often overtake us. As I moved on this morning to do my devotion, God led me to another portion of His word that gave me comfort. I discovered that when God has spoken, nothing else needs to be said.
I am grateful for the reminder of what is required of me!
Do not trust a neighbor; put no confidence in a friend. Even with her who lies in your embrace be careful of her words. For a son dishonors his father, a daughter rises up against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law---a man's enemies are the members of his own household. But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.
Micah 7:5-7
And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
I miss you!
Some days I wake up and just long to see my son. I long to wrap my arms around him and just hear him breathe. He is in his second year at Sam Houston State University and all grown up
Sometimes I will drive by a place that will just trigger a memory. Yesterday it was Sonic. I drove through to get some mango tea and in my head I could hear the high school junior say "Mom, I'm gonna meet the guys at Sonic."
Words can not describe the longing to turn back time, I just want to say "Hey son, let's go have lunch at Manuel's." I reminisced of all the homecoming corsages I had to order, all the mums, all the pictures, and all the instructions for everything to be perfect.
I desperately miss hearing about his day or this situation or that situation. I miss shopping for the perfect colored t shirt or the perfect shoe...all things that took time and could not be rushed. The problem is he is not so close anymore. He is no longer in his bedroom, he no longer comes home to often. He is deep in his studies and has his own schedule and agenda.
I desperately miss hearing about his day or this situation or that situation. I miss shopping for the perfect colored t shirt or the perfect shoe...all things that took time and could not be rushed. The problem is he is not so close anymore. He is no longer in his bedroom, he no longer comes home to often. He is deep in his studies and has his own schedule and agenda.
How I wish I could change that, how I wish I could see that toothless little boy and that young man dependent on mom to drive him places and cheer him through. I can not describe the emptiness and the need to just share a long conversation -just he and I. "Let's drive to Kemah or go to a movie" are the kind of days I miss. I long to be in his presence and hear about the direction he is taking or how God is working in his life. It makes me sad that as life goes on, we move out, move forward, and eventually, move away.
As I buried myself in thought of how much I miss him, my heart became more and more heavy. In that thought, I thought of my father. I thought of how much my father must miss me when I "go away," how much does my father miss me when I am no longer in his presence, or in conversation with him. Some of His children have long moved on, how he must long to hear from us.
I speak of my heavenly Father. I think of how I long to have quality time with my son and think of how God must long to hear from me. Oh He hears from me, but I mean really hearing from me. Quiet, still, committing time to Him alone.
As I succumb to the feeling of loneliness, I run to my Father. I tell him how it is a bad day and how much I miss my son and how despite the cycle of life, I long to be with him today. It is then that my Father reminds me that He gave up his son and He did not even consider not doing it. He gave up His son so that I could have eternal life, a gift offered and passed on to my son.
Do I miss my son....absolutely! Do I know he is in good hands.....yes! Do I trust my Father....enough to let go!
As I blink back a tear, my phone dings and the text merely says "Math test was so hard!" I smile as I encourage him to be tough and trust God. I am so, so, so.....beyond words, so grateful that I found Christ when I did and that He was my guide. He will not mislead you in raising children.
Corrie Ten Boom once said to Charles Swindoll relative to his children "Hold everything in your hands lightly....otherwise it hurts when God pries your hands open."
My hands have been pried....my heart misses my son but my mind knows that God is in control and I am glad that He is also his Father.
Although I miss my son, I must remain diligent in Christ because I do not want to miss my Father.
I thank God that He was willing to give his son so that we might all have an opportunity at eternal life. Have you accepted that gift?
I speak of my heavenly Father. I think of how I long to have quality time with my son and think of how God must long to hear from me. Oh He hears from me, but I mean really hearing from me. Quiet, still, committing time to Him alone.
As I succumb to the feeling of loneliness, I run to my Father. I tell him how it is a bad day and how much I miss my son and how despite the cycle of life, I long to be with him today. It is then that my Father reminds me that He gave up his son and He did not even consider not doing it. He gave up His son so that I could have eternal life, a gift offered and passed on to my son.
Do I miss my son....absolutely! Do I know he is in good hands.....yes! Do I trust my Father....enough to let go!
As I blink back a tear, my phone dings and the text merely says "Math test was so hard!" I smile as I encourage him to be tough and trust God. I am so, so, so.....beyond words, so grateful that I found Christ when I did and that He was my guide. He will not mislead you in raising children.
Corrie Ten Boom once said to Charles Swindoll relative to his children "Hold everything in your hands lightly....otherwise it hurts when God pries your hands open."
My hands have been pried....my heart misses my son but my mind knows that God is in control and I am glad that He is also his Father.
Although I miss my son, I must remain diligent in Christ because I do not want to miss my Father.
I thank God that He was willing to give his son so that we might all have an opportunity at eternal life. Have you accepted that gift?
There is surely a future hope for you and your hope will not be cut off. Listen my son and be wise, and keep your heart on the right path. Proverbs 23: 19-20
Sunday, October 12, 2014
Dual Lesson
This week was a terrible, horrible, dog gone long week. On top of that, I had a Bible Study Lesson to teach today [Sunday]. Although I reviewed the lesson throughout the week, I felt like I was rushing through it.
I was subbing for a kindergarten teacher at a local school and they were a handful. It was all I could do to get those papers graded, lessons taught and get them on the bus for the last time Friday. After Friday I would have relief as my assignment would be over.
On Saturday morning I woke up early and said to God "Okay God, do your work. I only have today to prepare this lesson." I also thought that if he could possibly make it happen before 4:30PM that afternoon it would be great because my husband and I worship on Saturdays at 5:00PM due to his work schedule.
Then I got to work. I prayed, read my bible and put on some worship music. I then let the Holy Spirit lead as God just provided the words straight from His Holy Word. When it was complete, I was satisfied that those were not wasted hours.
I proceeded to clean up and wait for my husband and then we headed to church. I felt good about the lesson I would be presenting in the morning.
This morning, as I awoke again early, I reviewed the lesson and the excitement was building. I was excited about what God was going to do in class. I went to the worship service which was again awesome and headed to class.
When I arrived, I saw a familiar face-also a sub who was preparing for a power-point presentation. "Oh, are you teaching this morning?" I asked. He replied "Yes, the teacher asked me to teach today." Funny, she had asked me to teach also. I told him "I wish I would have known, I had a hectic week and the lesson was difficult to prepare in the little time I had." He responded in the same manner as he continued to search for a working laptop.
Immediately, I said "Well, you go ahead and teach-I'll sit in on the class." What confusion. I went to the back of the class and took the seat in the row furthest back and in the furthest corner closest to the door.
I can't say that I wasn't disappointed, I was but I sat through the lesson silently praying that God would use him all the while feeling like I had a good lesson to teach also.
Within minutes, my attitude took a turn. I thought "I just wish I had known! I wouldn't have spent all that time preparing!" Then it hit me...."all that time preparing?" I had limited God to one day! Not that He can't do it but I limited God! I put him on my schedule.
As I prayed that attitude away, I discovered that I did not have one regret. I went back to those hours of preparation and remembered my amazing time with God. I remembered the heart touching, soul piercing, spirit filled time I spent with Him. As I prepared, I worshiped like I had not had time to worship in a long time! I felt like I had truly been in His presence and you can not regret anything about that!
Yes, I worked hard, I prepared this lesson and it was indeed a dual lesson. Not because two people had prepared the same lesson and only one could teach but because this girl prepared the lesson and learned the lesson all in the same day!
God's plan was for me to meet with Him. I limited Him to speak to me and He used every moment to speak His truth through worship and His word and that in itself is quite the lesson for me. The sub taught a good lesson as I knew he would but I am every grateful that God taught me my own lesson long before I got to class.
What lesson are you missing?
God is not unjust, He will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. We do not want you to become lazy , but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. Hebrews 6: 10-12
I was subbing for a kindergarten teacher at a local school and they were a handful. It was all I could do to get those papers graded, lessons taught and get them on the bus for the last time Friday. After Friday I would have relief as my assignment would be over.
On Saturday morning I woke up early and said to God "Okay God, do your work. I only have today to prepare this lesson." I also thought that if he could possibly make it happen before 4:30PM that afternoon it would be great because my husband and I worship on Saturdays at 5:00PM due to his work schedule.
Then I got to work. I prayed, read my bible and put on some worship music. I then let the Holy Spirit lead as God just provided the words straight from His Holy Word. When it was complete, I was satisfied that those were not wasted hours.
I proceeded to clean up and wait for my husband and then we headed to church. I felt good about the lesson I would be presenting in the morning.
This morning, as I awoke again early, I reviewed the lesson and the excitement was building. I was excited about what God was going to do in class. I went to the worship service which was again awesome and headed to class.
When I arrived, I saw a familiar face-also a sub who was preparing for a power-point presentation. "Oh, are you teaching this morning?" I asked. He replied "Yes, the teacher asked me to teach today." Funny, she had asked me to teach also. I told him "I wish I would have known, I had a hectic week and the lesson was difficult to prepare in the little time I had." He responded in the same manner as he continued to search for a working laptop.
Immediately, I said "Well, you go ahead and teach-I'll sit in on the class." What confusion. I went to the back of the class and took the seat in the row furthest back and in the furthest corner closest to the door.
I can't say that I wasn't disappointed, I was but I sat through the lesson silently praying that God would use him all the while feeling like I had a good lesson to teach also.
Within minutes, my attitude took a turn. I thought "I just wish I had known! I wouldn't have spent all that time preparing!" Then it hit me...."all that time preparing?" I had limited God to one day! Not that He can't do it but I limited God! I put him on my schedule.
As I prayed that attitude away, I discovered that I did not have one regret. I went back to those hours of preparation and remembered my amazing time with God. I remembered the heart touching, soul piercing, spirit filled time I spent with Him. As I prepared, I worshiped like I had not had time to worship in a long time! I felt like I had truly been in His presence and you can not regret anything about that!
Yes, I worked hard, I prepared this lesson and it was indeed a dual lesson. Not because two people had prepared the same lesson and only one could teach but because this girl prepared the lesson and learned the lesson all in the same day!
God's plan was for me to meet with Him. I limited Him to speak to me and He used every moment to speak His truth through worship and His word and that in itself is quite the lesson for me. The sub taught a good lesson as I knew he would but I am every grateful that God taught me my own lesson long before I got to class.
What lesson are you missing?
God is not unjust, He will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. We do not want you to become lazy , but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. Hebrews 6: 10-12
Saturday, October 4, 2014
Do you know?
The other day I woke up and went to my Bible. I usually do my daily devotion right after waking up, between my morning coffee and my shower. Of course that means I have to wake up a little earlier.
As I sat to read, I looked at the scripture, Philippians 4: 10-20. "Oh Good" I thought, "I need to read about having the strength to 'do all things.'" I opened my Bible and began to read. I read and read and realized that somehow I had missed Philippians 4:13 I can do all things, through Christ who gives me strength.
Where was that verse? Like so many others, I learned that verse years ago. It also happens to be one of my son's favorite verses so where was it? I went to the beginning of the chapter and yes, I was in chapter 4. I looked at the verse and yes, I was at verse 13 but the scripture did not match the verse.
I looked again just to double check and I was on 4:13. Knowing this was not right, I looked at the book of the bible I was in and you guessed it...I was in Ephesians not Philippians.
This taught me a lesson. I have always said, in fact I had just stressed to my bible study class the importance of truly knowing scripture. When you know scripture and you commit it to memory, then you know when someone quotes or writes it wrong!
The lesson for me was that I knew I wasn't readying Philippians 4:13 and I sought after an answer.
Today, so many people settle for what a pastor, a leader, television, author or a friend say about the Word of God. There is only one true source and that is the Word of God itself!
The Sadducees came to Jesus one day with their own theory about marriage at the resurrection. Jesus had to set them straight and the issue was "they did not know the scriptures or the power of God."
Do you know the scriptures enough to recognize one that is not accurate or manipulated a little? Learn the Word of God, commit it to the heart and be prepared to recognize it when it is wrong.
Jesus replied, "You are in error because you do not know the scriptures or the power of God."
Matthew 22:29
As I sat to read, I looked at the scripture, Philippians 4: 10-20. "Oh Good" I thought, "I need to read about having the strength to 'do all things.'" I opened my Bible and began to read. I read and read and realized that somehow I had missed Philippians 4:13 I can do all things, through Christ who gives me strength.
Where was that verse? Like so many others, I learned that verse years ago. It also happens to be one of my son's favorite verses so where was it? I went to the beginning of the chapter and yes, I was in chapter 4. I looked at the verse and yes, I was at verse 13 but the scripture did not match the verse.
I looked again just to double check and I was on 4:13. Knowing this was not right, I looked at the book of the bible I was in and you guessed it...I was in Ephesians not Philippians.
This taught me a lesson. I have always said, in fact I had just stressed to my bible study class the importance of truly knowing scripture. When you know scripture and you commit it to memory, then you know when someone quotes or writes it wrong!
The lesson for me was that I knew I wasn't readying Philippians 4:13 and I sought after an answer.
Today, so many people settle for what a pastor, a leader, television, author or a friend say about the Word of God. There is only one true source and that is the Word of God itself!
The Sadducees came to Jesus one day with their own theory about marriage at the resurrection. Jesus had to set them straight and the issue was "they did not know the scriptures or the power of God."
Do you know the scriptures enough to recognize one that is not accurate or manipulated a little? Learn the Word of God, commit it to the heart and be prepared to recognize it when it is wrong.
Jesus replied, "You are in error because you do not know the scriptures or the power of God."
Matthew 22:29
Saturday, September 13, 2014
The Bible
Yesterday I got a phone call from my husband. He said "Guess what I found?" Of course there was no telling what it was since I can't keep up with anything! He said "I found Matthew's Bible," but I had no memory that it was lost. Matthew is our youngest and years ago, he lost his bible at our church. I recalled Matthew saying several years ago, that he had lost it. He must have been around 9 years old at the time (he is 19 now). I remembered that we went to the lost and found, security, and the information booth of our church but we did not find it. We resigned to the idea that it was lost and purchased another one.
When I came home and saw the bible I was so touched. In his writing, my son had written some things that are dear to his heart. The bible however looked a bit different from mine. It had come into the hands of a chaplain who stated that he had used it to perform weddings, funerals and counsel individuals but it was no worse for the wear.
My bible, the same exact type has been on a shelf for years and I have had three others since then. My bible is bound by clear tape and binder clips. I use it on occasion but only for reference. I fear the pages are so fragile they might rip.
Inside that bible, I have picture stickers of my son in grade school. I can see his growth through the years. I have multiple notes and writings, post it notes and stories, important dates, sermons and prayers. I wore that bible out and I was glad to see through my son's bible what mine once looked like.
I love my bible(s) and have a very difficult time when I have to purchase a new one. I truly believe that it is because I know my bible. I could tell you what side of the page a portion of scripture was on, what part of the bible you could find it in, what paragraph it was in, where a chapter started and so much more.
Unfortunately, every time I purchase a new bible, I have to learn that all over again. The way you learn it is by daily spending time in it. Everyday brings new revelation and every revelation brings you closer to God.
So if you've lost your bible, or you've lost your way...get a new bible because it's never too late to get into the Word of God.
How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I may not sin against you. Psalms 119:9-11
One day (about ten years ago) this chaplain saw a box with bibles that were going to be given away. He asked if he could have the maroon one and they said yes. He used that bible to minister to individuals in the criminal justice system. He saw the bible had the name Matthew Eller in it but had no idea who this person was. He stated that one day while on Facebook, he saw that name on one of my posts. He ran into my husband yesterday and gave him the bible saying "Give that to Dee, she'll know who this guy is." to which my husband responded "He's our youngest son."
When I came home and saw the bible I was so touched. In his writing, my son had written some things that are dear to his heart. The bible however looked a bit different from mine. It had come into the hands of a chaplain who stated that he had used it to perform weddings, funerals and counsel individuals but it was no worse for the wear.
My bible, the same exact type has been on a shelf for years and I have had three others since then. My bible is bound by clear tape and binder clips. I use it on occasion but only for reference. I fear the pages are so fragile they might rip.
Inside that bible, I have picture stickers of my son in grade school. I can see his growth through the years. I have multiple notes and writings, post it notes and stories, important dates, sermons and prayers. I wore that bible out and I was glad to see through my son's bible what mine once looked like.
I love my bible(s) and have a very difficult time when I have to purchase a new one. I truly believe that it is because I know my bible. I could tell you what side of the page a portion of scripture was on, what part of the bible you could find it in, what paragraph it was in, where a chapter started and so much more.
Unfortunately, every time I purchase a new bible, I have to learn that all over again. The way you learn it is by daily spending time in it. Everyday brings new revelation and every revelation brings you closer to God.
So if you've lost your bible, or you've lost your way...get a new bible because it's never too late to get into the Word of God.
How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I may not sin against you. Psalms 119:9-11
One day (about ten years ago) this chaplain saw a box with bibles that were going to be given away. He asked if he could have the maroon one and they said yes. He used that bible to minister to individuals in the criminal justice system. He saw the bible had the name Matthew Eller in it but had no idea who this person was. He stated that one day while on Facebook, he saw that name on one of my posts. He ran into my husband yesterday and gave him the bible saying "Give that to Dee, she'll know who this guy is." to which my husband responded "He's our youngest son."
Sunday, September 7, 2014
All Bark, No Bite
It's that time again....running! It's time to start running in order to participate in events this fall. After six months of "taking it easy" to recoup from an injury, I am finally up and at 'em. I have one of the best places to run. My community not only offers greenbelts but it also offers greenbelts with many trees and shade.
This morning as I was running the first thing I saw was a rabbit. I thought it was so neat to see this sweet creature just sitting there munching on something and not run away. I continued to run and take it all in.
I started thinking of the previous year when I was running long distances. In order to complete a long distance, I ran through our community and then ventured into a wooded area-not a path...woods! I knew however, that if I made it through those woods I would end up on a street that would lead me straight to my father-in-laws house.
Oh yeah I had several things going against me. Woods with uneven ground, a road with a serious incline, and distance. I didn't care....I love a good challenge. I proceeded to run and at the end of the run, at the very end, after I had conquered my self inflicted obstacles, I turned onto my father-in-laws street. "I did it!" I remember thinking that just before I saw a huge, scraggly dog coming right toward me!
I could barely hear him for my ear buds and listening to music but I sure could see him. I stopped in my tracks and tried to shoo him away. I guess he finally got tired of me as he eventually walked away. In walking away, I could see that the dog was old and probably couldn't hurt a fly but at that moment, I wouldn't believe it.
I was minding my own business when this dog came up on me. I was reminded of 1 Peter 5:8 which says "Be self controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."
The enemy is brutal and while that scripture is true, I'm telling you not to cower down! The next verse says "resist the devil." If you feel you are up against the wall because of a threatening lion, I have good news....you can survive that lion!
So many times we focus on the danger or perceived danger that we allow that to overcome us. We allow their roar to frighten us to the point of paralyzing fear. How would you approach that lion if you knew he had no teeth or broken teeth?
Whether you are suffering a financial lion, bad relationship lion, bad health lion, an unexpected life situation or any other lion, rest easy and know that the word of God can tame any lion!
Remember this....whatever you are facing, whatever comes up against you in the form of the lion, remember that like the dog that came up against me, he was all bark and no bite. That lion has no teeth!
Consider now: Who, being innocent, has ever perished? Where were the upright ever destroyed? As I have observed, those who plow evil and those who sow trouble reap it. At the breath of God they are destroyed; at the blast of his anger they perish. The lions may roar and growl, yet the teeth of the great lions are broken. The lion perishes for lack of prey. Job 4:7-11
This morning as I was running the first thing I saw was a rabbit. I thought it was so neat to see this sweet creature just sitting there munching on something and not run away. I continued to run and take it all in.
I started thinking of the previous year when I was running long distances. In order to complete a long distance, I ran through our community and then ventured into a wooded area-not a path...woods! I knew however, that if I made it through those woods I would end up on a street that would lead me straight to my father-in-laws house.
Oh yeah I had several things going against me. Woods with uneven ground, a road with a serious incline, and distance. I didn't care....I love a good challenge. I proceeded to run and at the end of the run, at the very end, after I had conquered my self inflicted obstacles, I turned onto my father-in-laws street. "I did it!" I remember thinking that just before I saw a huge, scraggly dog coming right toward me!
I could barely hear him for my ear buds and listening to music but I sure could see him. I stopped in my tracks and tried to shoo him away. I guess he finally got tired of me as he eventually walked away. In walking away, I could see that the dog was old and probably couldn't hurt a fly but at that moment, I wouldn't believe it.
I was minding my own business when this dog came up on me. I was reminded of 1 Peter 5:8 which says "Be self controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."
The enemy is brutal and while that scripture is true, I'm telling you not to cower down! The next verse says "resist the devil." If you feel you are up against the wall because of a threatening lion, I have good news....you can survive that lion!
So many times we focus on the danger or perceived danger that we allow that to overcome us. We allow their roar to frighten us to the point of paralyzing fear. How would you approach that lion if you knew he had no teeth or broken teeth?
Whether you are suffering a financial lion, bad relationship lion, bad health lion, an unexpected life situation or any other lion, rest easy and know that the word of God can tame any lion!
Remember this....whatever you are facing, whatever comes up against you in the form of the lion, remember that like the dog that came up against me, he was all bark and no bite. That lion has no teeth!
Consider now: Who, being innocent, has ever perished? Where were the upright ever destroyed? As I have observed, those who plow evil and those who sow trouble reap it. At the breath of God they are destroyed; at the blast of his anger they perish. The lions may roar and growl, yet the teeth of the great lions are broken. The lion perishes for lack of prey. Job 4:7-11
Tuesday, September 2, 2014
Strap it On
Whew! What a week. I have been taking care of my fourteen month old great niece while my niece is out of town on business. I had forgotten what it was like to be responsible for a baby/child.
One of the days just wore me out! [More than the rest]. I went to my sister's house to pick her up early in the morning. I had to get her car seat, strap it in, strap her in, then head out. I got home, removed the shoulder strap and belts when I got a call to go meet the contractor a few miles away at the other house.
You guessed it. I had to put her back in, strap the shoulders, strap the waist and head out. I got there and had to remove the straps, carry her in and answer a question which lasted all of about three minutes. He needed something I had to go get so again....straps. I arrived at the store and unstrap, Made my purchase and again, strap her in. About this time I had enough.
I thought for one second "I'm not doing this again!" I'm just strapping the top. It was way too time consuming for the many stops I had to make and all were for very short stays and I still had a few more stops.
That's when it hit me. What if I got frustrated or tired of "putting on the full armor of God?" What if took short cuts and said that I didn't need the helmet of salvation or the breastplate of righteousness or worse what if I left the sword of the spirit. That's my weapon against the enemy!
Just like every buckle is important for my small niece in her car seat, every cover of my armor is important to my spiritual life. I learned a lesson with that car seat. I will strap on every buckle and I will put on every piece of armor....everyday I will strap it on!
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes...Stand firm then with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place and with your feet fitted with readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:10-11 and 14-17
One of the days just wore me out! [More than the rest]. I went to my sister's house to pick her up early in the morning. I had to get her car seat, strap it in, strap her in, then head out. I got home, removed the shoulder strap and belts when I got a call to go meet the contractor a few miles away at the other house.
You guessed it. I had to put her back in, strap the shoulders, strap the waist and head out. I got there and had to remove the straps, carry her in and answer a question which lasted all of about three minutes. He needed something I had to go get so again....straps. I arrived at the store and unstrap, Made my purchase and again, strap her in. About this time I had enough.
I thought for one second "I'm not doing this again!" I'm just strapping the top. It was way too time consuming for the many stops I had to make and all were for very short stays and I still had a few more stops.
That's when it hit me. What if I got frustrated or tired of "putting on the full armor of God?" What if took short cuts and said that I didn't need the helmet of salvation or the breastplate of righteousness or worse what if I left the sword of the spirit. That's my weapon against the enemy!
Just like every buckle is important for my small niece in her car seat, every cover of my armor is important to my spiritual life. I learned a lesson with that car seat. I will strap on every buckle and I will put on every piece of armor....everyday I will strap it on!
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes...Stand firm then with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place and with your feet fitted with readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:10-11 and 14-17
Friday, August 22, 2014
Don't Ruin What my Father Gave Me
Many years ago, my father gave me a beautiful green suede suit. It was a short jacket with zipper in the front and a sweet little skirt. I love it. To tell you the truth, it must have been 25 years ago. I still wear the jacket often in the winter.
Last winter, a friend asked if she could borrow it. I was very apprehensive not because it was an expensive suit but because my worth of the suit was attached to the giver...my father. It meant more to me than any amount of money but after all, I had the suit for many years. Against my better judgment, I relented and let her borrow the suit.
I would see her at church and she was wearing the jacket, I would see her at dinner and she was wearing the suit on a date, I would see her at the mall and eventually, when she would see me and turn the other way. I wanted to say "Hey friend, that's my suit."
One day I was at the top row of the movie theatre when I saw her walk in again wearing the jacket. I was heartbroken when I saw her spill a red slush drink on it. My heart sank. I wanted to yell out to her "Don't ruin my jacket-my father gave that to me!"
She is my friend and I love her but I love my father more. I finally got the nerve to call and ask for my suit. I did it in a nice way and she explained that it was at the dry cleaners and she would get it to me within a few days. That weekend, she posted a picture wearing my suit.
Again, I called and asked for my suit and she made another excuse. I really felt bad because by now it was Spring and I really couldn't say "I want to wear it." I persisted until one day I just "showed up." I went to her home and told her I wanted my suit. She went to her closet and brought my suit out. The jacket zipper was broken. She explained that she tried to pull the zipped jacket from a hanger and when she "yanked it off" the zipper broke. She said "I'm sorry but that happens."
I took my suit and went home. I saw my father that week and explained to him what had happened. I told him that he had given me that suit and for twenty five years I had taken care of it, wrapped it, kept it in a special place and the one time I "loaned it out" it was stained, broken and ruined.
My father hugged me and said "It's not ruined-I gave it to you and I can fix it." I gave it to my father who took it to the lady who alters his suits and she put a brand new zipper on it, cleaned it and gave it back. He did things like only a father can do!
When you were born, God our Father gave you a heart. It is a heart to worship and honor Him. We may find ourselves taking the heart our Father gave us and we giving it away thinking that person will fill our needs.
Many will toy with your heart, laugh at your heart, wear out your heart and eventually break your heart. But God Almighty, Our Father who gave you that heart will take it and mend it. He will hold you until that heart is completely healed....if you only believe.
I love my father and again, the value in the suit was in him giving it to me. Do not release what your Father gave you to someone who does not know or value the worth and if you already have-it's never too late to take it back!
Don't let someone ruin what your Father gave you!
Guard your heart for it is the wellspring of life. Proverbs 4:23
The devil is a liar. John 8:44
Last winter, a friend asked if she could borrow it. I was very apprehensive not because it was an expensive suit but because my worth of the suit was attached to the giver...my father. It meant more to me than any amount of money but after all, I had the suit for many years. Against my better judgment, I relented and let her borrow the suit.
I would see her at church and she was wearing the jacket, I would see her at dinner and she was wearing the suit on a date, I would see her at the mall and eventually, when she would see me and turn the other way. I wanted to say "Hey friend, that's my suit."
One day I was at the top row of the movie theatre when I saw her walk in again wearing the jacket. I was heartbroken when I saw her spill a red slush drink on it. My heart sank. I wanted to yell out to her "Don't ruin my jacket-my father gave that to me!"
She is my friend and I love her but I love my father more. I finally got the nerve to call and ask for my suit. I did it in a nice way and she explained that it was at the dry cleaners and she would get it to me within a few days. That weekend, she posted a picture wearing my suit.
Again, I called and asked for my suit and she made another excuse. I really felt bad because by now it was Spring and I really couldn't say "I want to wear it." I persisted until one day I just "showed up." I went to her home and told her I wanted my suit. She went to her closet and brought my suit out. The jacket zipper was broken. She explained that she tried to pull the zipped jacket from a hanger and when she "yanked it off" the zipper broke. She said "I'm sorry but that happens."
I took my suit and went home. I saw my father that week and explained to him what had happened. I told him that he had given me that suit and for twenty five years I had taken care of it, wrapped it, kept it in a special place and the one time I "loaned it out" it was stained, broken and ruined.
My father hugged me and said "It's not ruined-I gave it to you and I can fix it." I gave it to my father who took it to the lady who alters his suits and she put a brand new zipper on it, cleaned it and gave it back. He did things like only a father can do!
When you were born, God our Father gave you a heart. It is a heart to worship and honor Him. We may find ourselves taking the heart our Father gave us and we giving it away thinking that person will fill our needs.
Many will toy with your heart, laugh at your heart, wear out your heart and eventually break your heart. But God Almighty, Our Father who gave you that heart will take it and mend it. He will hold you until that heart is completely healed....if you only believe.
I love my father and again, the value in the suit was in him giving it to me. Do not release what your Father gave you to someone who does not know or value the worth and if you already have-it's never too late to take it back!
Don't let someone ruin what your Father gave you!
Guard your heart for it is the wellspring of life. Proverbs 4:23
The devil is a liar. John 8:44
Keep your head in the game
The other day my husband and I were leaving our hotel room when we got stopped by a red light. There was a car in front of us and we were talking to each other-not really paying attention to the light.
The car in front of us proceeded to go and my husband followed until I said "whoa-that light is still red!" The guy in front of us randomly ran the red light. My husband was deceived because the driver stopped first, then ran the red light.
What amazed me was that my husband was so involved in our conversation that he didn't pay attention-he just went.
How many times do we go around in life not paying attention? As a result, we fall into the same mistakes that others make. Unfortunately, mistakes like that can be costly. It is important to pay attention in our godly walk.
We can not follow the lead of those who are reckless. We can not proceed without using caution.
We must pay attention to things in life that attempt to throw us off course.
The enemy will throw anything at us in order to get us off track. If another car had been coming and my husband would have continued through the light, we could have had an accident and it would have been our fault!
There are those that will try to disprove our God, make us question God's word and make every effort to make us fail despite what God has promised us! That is not new- it happened in Genesis 3 when the serpent convinced Eve to follow his direction. We know the end result- we are all paying for it.
So when you are walking or driving around, not paying attention- beware not to follow those who would lead you down the wrong path.
Keep your head in the game and your eyes focused on God!
Do not be misled, bad company corrupts good character. 1 Corinthians 5:33
The car in front of us proceeded to go and my husband followed until I said "whoa-that light is still red!" The guy in front of us randomly ran the red light. My husband was deceived because the driver stopped first, then ran the red light.
What amazed me was that my husband was so involved in our conversation that he didn't pay attention-he just went.
How many times do we go around in life not paying attention? As a result, we fall into the same mistakes that others make. Unfortunately, mistakes like that can be costly. It is important to pay attention in our godly walk.
We can not follow the lead of those who are reckless. We can not proceed without using caution.
We must pay attention to things in life that attempt to throw us off course.
The enemy will throw anything at us in order to get us off track. If another car had been coming and my husband would have continued through the light, we could have had an accident and it would have been our fault!
There are those that will try to disprove our God, make us question God's word and make every effort to make us fail despite what God has promised us! That is not new- it happened in Genesis 3 when the serpent convinced Eve to follow his direction. We know the end result- we are all paying for it.
So when you are walking or driving around, not paying attention- beware not to follow those who would lead you down the wrong path.
Keep your head in the game and your eyes focused on God!
Do not be misled, bad company corrupts good character. 1 Corinthians 5:33
Monday, August 18, 2014
Jubilee
Yesterday I was invited to a "jubilee" at my parents church. It was a celebration acknowledging the goodness of God's healing hand. The interim pastor had been healed from cancer fourteen years ago. The bigger story was that he came to Christ at that time.
It was a time of praise and worship like I've never seen. It began at 2:00 in the afternoon and it was a packed house. There were amazing stories of transformation because of God's amazing hand! What a sweet time!
There was one girl in particular that just gripped my heart. I'll call her Becky. She had a story of addictions that kept me on the edge of my seat. She currently works with others who have addictions offering them the love of God and hope.
She told a story of having a non participating father in her life. Her mom worked at local cantinas (bars) and was out all night. The young girl was often home alone. A neighborhood woman took her in and her mom agreed because "at least she wasn't home alone." The woman smoked and let Becky smoke also-Becky was eight at the time. By the time she was 13, Becky was drinking Vodka straight and by the time she was 16, she had used multiple drugs and was hooked on crack and pregnant.
Becky spoke of leading a life of prostitution and lawlessness. She lived a self serving life and nothing mattered but satisfying her urge for the drug. I was memorized listening to her story. She spoke of spending time in prison for robbery-an act she engaged in, in order to sustain her habit.
Her son was being "raised" by her mom. Finding herself with no place to live, she went to live with her sister. Her sister insisted that she go to a Christian based recovery center and Becky agreed. After 3 weeks she left. Her issue was "too much Jesus" Could this be real? Could this Jesus be real? The night she left, she realized that she had walked out on Jesus and asked for His forgiveness and came to Christ that night. Her life has not been the same since.
As I sat there, I was thinking "I am just the opposite!" I have never done drugs, I have never been a prostitute (except for role playing), I was never pregnant out of wedlock and I enforced the law! So what did Becky and I have in common? Why was her story so gripping?
Her story was so gripping because I too once said "this is too much Jesus." although I never experienced many of her life experiences, I did go a few rounds with rebellion. I turned my back just enough to resist God but not completely. I didn't want to give God control of my life but I didn't want to completely let go of Him either? I knew I couldn't have it both ways. I had to make a choice. I chose to give my heart to Jesus.
Today there is no such thing as "too much Jesus" for me. In fact, there is never enough of serving, living, and giving to Jesus. He is my all and I pray that I honor Him daily.
I am so grateful that God never held my rebellion against me. Despite my hardened heart, when I came to Christ and told him I wanted him to change me, he took my heart of stone and made me a new person with a heart for Him. Becky is a good example of God's amazing grace....and so am I. Every salvation anniversary should be celebrated with a jubilee.
I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in your will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. Ezekiel 36:25-26
It was a time of praise and worship like I've never seen. It began at 2:00 in the afternoon and it was a packed house. There were amazing stories of transformation because of God's amazing hand! What a sweet time!
There was one girl in particular that just gripped my heart. I'll call her Becky. She had a story of addictions that kept me on the edge of my seat. She currently works with others who have addictions offering them the love of God and hope.
She told a story of having a non participating father in her life. Her mom worked at local cantinas (bars) and was out all night. The young girl was often home alone. A neighborhood woman took her in and her mom agreed because "at least she wasn't home alone." The woman smoked and let Becky smoke also-Becky was eight at the time. By the time she was 13, Becky was drinking Vodka straight and by the time she was 16, she had used multiple drugs and was hooked on crack and pregnant.
Becky spoke of leading a life of prostitution and lawlessness. She lived a self serving life and nothing mattered but satisfying her urge for the drug. I was memorized listening to her story. She spoke of spending time in prison for robbery-an act she engaged in, in order to sustain her habit.
Her son was being "raised" by her mom. Finding herself with no place to live, she went to live with her sister. Her sister insisted that she go to a Christian based recovery center and Becky agreed. After 3 weeks she left. Her issue was "too much Jesus" Could this be real? Could this Jesus be real? The night she left, she realized that she had walked out on Jesus and asked for His forgiveness and came to Christ that night. Her life has not been the same since.
As I sat there, I was thinking "I am just the opposite!" I have never done drugs, I have never been a prostitute (except for role playing), I was never pregnant out of wedlock and I enforced the law! So what did Becky and I have in common? Why was her story so gripping?
Her story was so gripping because I too once said "this is too much Jesus." although I never experienced many of her life experiences, I did go a few rounds with rebellion. I turned my back just enough to resist God but not completely. I didn't want to give God control of my life but I didn't want to completely let go of Him either? I knew I couldn't have it both ways. I had to make a choice. I chose to give my heart to Jesus.
Today there is no such thing as "too much Jesus" for me. In fact, there is never enough of serving, living, and giving to Jesus. He is my all and I pray that I honor Him daily.
I am so grateful that God never held my rebellion against me. Despite my hardened heart, when I came to Christ and told him I wanted him to change me, he took my heart of stone and made me a new person with a heart for Him. Becky is a good example of God's amazing grace....and so am I. Every salvation anniversary should be celebrated with a jubilee.
I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in your will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. Ezekiel 36:25-26
Saturday, August 16, 2014
Follow the Leader
While in the Hill Country this week, I had to return to Houston for a ladies event at church. I drove home alone and then returned to the Hill Country alone early the next morning.
Not gonna lie to you I don't particularly like the roads when they become "hilly." I have a tremendous fear of free falling, mainly because I don't have control. I don't believe you would catch me sky diving or even on a roller coaster.
Back in the day of Astroworld, it was everything I could do to manage the bambo shoot. That slight "free fall" dip where everyone raises their arms would kill me.
On the road, every time I made it to a hill my heart beat a little faster at the thought of what might be on the other side of the hill once I got there. What if there was a stalled car or a deer or anything else? Do you know what that would do to then or me at 80 miles per hour?
I was grateful when I finally reached my destination. That was my third trip alone as I went alone on Saturday, returned alone on Tuesday and then drove back alone on Wednesday. By the time we returned to Houston on Thursday, my husband was there also and we came home together...in separate cars.
Before we got on the road he asked "Do you want to lead or follow?" Duh.....I want to follow! I did not want to lead out and be responsible for the person behind me-him.
I can not tell you how comforting it was to have my husband lead. While that is actually as God intended, that is never easy for me. I remember him coming to me and telling me that his days off had changed and we would have to move to Saturday night worship services. Of course I responded willingly.....not!
I gave him other options like "what if we went to Saturday Bible Study together and I went alone on Sundays.". I know that God intends us to love and respect our husbands but "leading" is my thing! I'm an older sister, I was in policing, I teach bible study...all leadership positions.
The fact is I want to lead-the truth is God gave me a leader and he's called "husband."
I pray that I will be willing to listen to God's Word and follow the leader he has given me in life. I want him to lead me on the road and I pray that I will submit to him leading me in life just as God has instructed. Follow the leader!
Wives submit yourselves to your own husband's as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church his body of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to God so also wives should submit to their husband's in everything. Ephesians 5:22-24
Wives in the same way submit to your own husbands so that if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives. 1 Peter 3:1
Not gonna lie to you I don't particularly like the roads when they become "hilly." I have a tremendous fear of free falling, mainly because I don't have control. I don't believe you would catch me sky diving or even on a roller coaster.
Back in the day of Astroworld, it was everything I could do to manage the bambo shoot. That slight "free fall" dip where everyone raises their arms would kill me.
On the road, every time I made it to a hill my heart beat a little faster at the thought of what might be on the other side of the hill once I got there. What if there was a stalled car or a deer or anything else? Do you know what that would do to then or me at 80 miles per hour?
I was grateful when I finally reached my destination. That was my third trip alone as I went alone on Saturday, returned alone on Tuesday and then drove back alone on Wednesday. By the time we returned to Houston on Thursday, my husband was there also and we came home together...in separate cars.
Before we got on the road he asked "Do you want to lead or follow?" Duh.....I want to follow! I did not want to lead out and be responsible for the person behind me-him.
I can not tell you how comforting it was to have my husband lead. While that is actually as God intended, that is never easy for me. I remember him coming to me and telling me that his days off had changed and we would have to move to Saturday night worship services. Of course I responded willingly.....not!
I gave him other options like "what if we went to Saturday Bible Study together and I went alone on Sundays.". I know that God intends us to love and respect our husbands but "leading" is my thing! I'm an older sister, I was in policing, I teach bible study...all leadership positions.
The fact is I want to lead-the truth is God gave me a leader and he's called "husband."
I pray that I will be willing to listen to God's Word and follow the leader he has given me in life. I want him to lead me on the road and I pray that I will submit to him leading me in life just as God has instructed. Follow the leader!
Wives submit yourselves to your own husband's as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church his body of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to God so also wives should submit to their husband's in everything. Ephesians 5:22-24
Wives in the same way submit to your own husbands so that if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives. 1 Peter 3:1
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Value and Worth
Today as I traveled back from the Hill Country I stopped at the ever famous "must stop" place called Buc-ee's. I was solo so I didn't have the dog's to walk or any company to talk to. My husband had stayed behind and manage the work at the property.
I put gas in my truck and then proceeded to go inside and take a little break. As I walked outside, I was carrying a small bag containing a sandwich, another bag with two scones for my sister and yet another small white bag with a blueberry muffin just because it looked good.
I was walking in the parking lot when I saw a dirty, dull looking dime laying there. I shifted my 32 ounce drink to my hand holding the bags and I squatted down to pick up the dime. At first I had difficulty because of my long nails but I was determined not to leave that dime. Alas, I had it and I moved on.
A few steps later, I saw something shining bright in the sunlight and I took a closer look only to discover it was a penny. "Nope" I said, "I'm not picking it up...it's just a penny."
Busted!!! Okay, you know this brought the "analytical" personality out in me to determine the answer to one question...why?
Why did I chose the dime? Why did I choose dull over shiny or dirty over clean? I'll tell you why...value! That dime was a tenth of a dollar the penny had a longer way to go to meet a dollar.
I pocketed that dime and headed straight to my truck. I got in the truck and it hit me. You picked up that dime because of it's value but you left that penny. At that moment it became important to me to deliver the message that we are all of the same value to God.
God does not see a difference between any of His children. We are all equal in His eyes. I put more value on that dime but God did not say "I'm dying for the saint" or "I'm dying for the rich" or "I'm dying for the pure."
In fact, God died for us while we were still sinners. [Romans 5:8] He died for the rich, He died for the poor, He died for the saint, He died for the sinner!
I pray forgiveness for the times I may walk past someone not giving them the time of day because their home is a sidewalk. While I do have a home, both me and that individual are children of the Most High God and the only value He considers is that we are all His children. Despite what we may think we're worth, our value is so much more in the eyes of God.
My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes comes in, If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, "Here is a good seat for you" but say to the poor man, "You stand there or sit on the floor by my feet," have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? James 2:1-4
I put gas in my truck and then proceeded to go inside and take a little break. As I walked outside, I was carrying a small bag containing a sandwich, another bag with two scones for my sister and yet another small white bag with a blueberry muffin just because it looked good.
I was walking in the parking lot when I saw a dirty, dull looking dime laying there. I shifted my 32 ounce drink to my hand holding the bags and I squatted down to pick up the dime. At first I had difficulty because of my long nails but I was determined not to leave that dime. Alas, I had it and I moved on.
A few steps later, I saw something shining bright in the sunlight and I took a closer look only to discover it was a penny. "Nope" I said, "I'm not picking it up...it's just a penny."
Busted!!! Okay, you know this brought the "analytical" personality out in me to determine the answer to one question...why?
Why did I chose the dime? Why did I choose dull over shiny or dirty over clean? I'll tell you why...value! That dime was a tenth of a dollar the penny had a longer way to go to meet a dollar.
I pocketed that dime and headed straight to my truck. I got in the truck and it hit me. You picked up that dime because of it's value but you left that penny. At that moment it became important to me to deliver the message that we are all of the same value to God.
God does not see a difference between any of His children. We are all equal in His eyes. I put more value on that dime but God did not say "I'm dying for the saint" or "I'm dying for the rich" or "I'm dying for the pure."
In fact, God died for us while we were still sinners. [Romans 5:8] He died for the rich, He died for the poor, He died for the saint, He died for the sinner!
I pray forgiveness for the times I may walk past someone not giving them the time of day because their home is a sidewalk. While I do have a home, both me and that individual are children of the Most High God and the only value He considers is that we are all His children. Despite what we may think we're worth, our value is so much more in the eyes of God.
My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes comes in, If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, "Here is a good seat for you" but say to the poor man, "You stand there or sit on the floor by my feet," have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? James 2:1-4
Sunday, August 10, 2014
Don't Go Unprotected
If you know anything about me you should know that I absolutely detest getting wet in a rain shower. I hate rain drops falling on my arms, feet, (especially while wearing open toe shoes) and worst of all...my hair!
You will be hard pressed to find me without an umbrella when it rains. I have some tiny compact umbrellas that I can fit in my purse but I also have the gigantic golf umbrellas.
In May, we went to my nephew's college graduation and it happened to rain that evening. I took one of our golf umbrellas that was special to me. It was a green and black "Panther" umbrella. I say Panther because my son attended Kinwood Park High School a couple of years ago and they were the Panthers. Their colors were green and black hence the color of the umbrella.
When we arrived at the venue, they told us we had to leave our umbrella at the door. They already had a protest on their hands and not wanting to contribute to a losing battle, we surrendered our umbrella.
We stayed through the ceremony and when it came time to leave, we went to retrieve our umbrella except that they were not in the foyer where they had taken them from us. ALL the umbrellas had been moved outside and were lying in a pile on the sidewalk. We had to search through hundreds of umbrellas in order to find ours.
If you're thinking that was an easy task because they were size or color coordinated you're wrong. In fact since it was sprinkling, many who left were just taking umbrellas. How do I know this? I heard comments like "I'm taking this one-just grab one and get one for momma too."
Sad as it may seem, someone had taken our protection from the rain at the door and now many "someone's" we're taking them again. In fact, none of my family members found their umbrellas and were forced to walk in the rain back to their cars, unprotected.
I became curious about the word umbrella and found that "umbrella or parasol is a canopy designed to protect against the rain or sunlight."
When we accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, he becomes our covering, our protection from the enemy. We carry Him with us but we don't have to surrender when the enemy threatens us. The enemy can't stand it and will do whatever it takes to make us give up that cover. Unfortunatly, too many times we believe the threat and surrender voluntarily.
Don't believe the lies of the enemy and don't give your protection. Jesus not only protects us from the enemy, He also covers our sin. Don't go unprotected!
Only do not rebel against the Lord and do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will devour them. Their protection is gone, but the Lord is with us. Do not be afraid of them
Numbers 14:9
You will call and I will answer you; you will long for the creature your hands have made. Surely then you will count my steps but not keep track of my sin. My offenses will be sealed up in a bag; you will cover over my sin. Job 14:15-17
You will be hard pressed to find me without an umbrella when it rains. I have some tiny compact umbrellas that I can fit in my purse but I also have the gigantic golf umbrellas.
In May, we went to my nephew's college graduation and it happened to rain that evening. I took one of our golf umbrellas that was special to me. It was a green and black "Panther" umbrella. I say Panther because my son attended Kinwood Park High School a couple of years ago and they were the Panthers. Their colors were green and black hence the color of the umbrella.
When we arrived at the venue, they told us we had to leave our umbrella at the door. They already had a protest on their hands and not wanting to contribute to a losing battle, we surrendered our umbrella.
We stayed through the ceremony and when it came time to leave, we went to retrieve our umbrella except that they were not in the foyer where they had taken them from us. ALL the umbrellas had been moved outside and were lying in a pile on the sidewalk. We had to search through hundreds of umbrellas in order to find ours.
If you're thinking that was an easy task because they were size or color coordinated you're wrong. In fact since it was sprinkling, many who left were just taking umbrellas. How do I know this? I heard comments like "I'm taking this one-just grab one and get one for momma too."
Sad as it may seem, someone had taken our protection from the rain at the door and now many "someone's" we're taking them again. In fact, none of my family members found their umbrellas and were forced to walk in the rain back to their cars, unprotected.
I became curious about the word umbrella and found that "umbrella or parasol is a canopy designed to protect against the rain or sunlight."
When we accept Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, he becomes our covering, our protection from the enemy. We carry Him with us but we don't have to surrender when the enemy threatens us. The enemy can't stand it and will do whatever it takes to make us give up that cover. Unfortunatly, too many times we believe the threat and surrender voluntarily.
Don't believe the lies of the enemy and don't give your protection. Jesus not only protects us from the enemy, He also covers our sin. Don't go unprotected!
Only do not rebel against the Lord and do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will devour them. Their protection is gone, but the Lord is with us. Do not be afraid of them
Numbers 14:9
You will call and I will answer you; you will long for the creature your hands have made. Surely then you will count my steps but not keep track of my sin. My offenses will be sealed up in a bag; you will cover over my sin. Job 14:15-17
Friday, August 8, 2014
Under Cover
Hello, here I am again. Such a busy summer and already I'm worn out. I have however had something on my mind. A couple of years ago I was asked to teach a session of a ladies bible study. The subject? Modesty. Fashion is a big thing for me relative to matching my accessories, shoes, etc. but I was not sure I could do this. After all, when you take something like this on, everyone watches you!
I began the session by displaying my police uniform and making this statement. "When I wear this uniform, I wear it with pride. I wear it remembering who and what I represent. Who do you represent?" If we represent a woman of God, our manner of dress must reflect that.
Look, I did not feel worthy to lead this class as I myself like to push the hemlines. The way I gauge it is this "Would my manner of dress distract another from coming to Christ? Would I be the one responsible for that? Lastly, am I honoring God?"
I use to love watching Dancing with the Stars on Monday nights but frankly, I had to stop. Let me rephrase...I chose to stop watching it. When a local news program has a "Skimpiest Outfit Report" the day after, that's a bit much. So having a young man and a husband in the house, I said no more!
This past season however, I heard that Candace Cameron-Bure was a contestant. I wondered how this Christian woman would manage that. That question was quickly answered when she publicly made it know to the producers that she chose not to wear an outfit that would not honor God or her husband. THAT ladies, is how it's done. We can not fear being bold. So what if they said "Sorry, that won't work." So what? Nothing lost. But our convictions remain intact.
I get it....I am a woman. We all want to know we are accepted and loved and there are two thoughts here. First, we might do it because we are young. Second, we might do it because we are older. As a young woman, we can wear tight, low cut and short clothes and get attention. Later in life, perhaps our kids are gone, we're single again or we need to "feel accepted" consequently, we resort to the tight, low cut, and short.
As an officer, you have an expectation of me. If I answered your call and I walked up with my uniform shirt unzipped to mid chest, you might not only question my commitment to my job but also to the organization I represent.
As Christian women, we represent the one true God and He does not see young woman, older woman....He sees godly woman. Does your dress reflect a commitment, love, dedication for Christ? Candace Cameron-Bure said "God has changed me in ways words can't describe. He has transformed the way I think and live my life." That's what it's all about....transforming.
You may think that this is ridiculous and God would never reject us for immodesty. The issue is our heart. If our heart is with Christ, the rest should follow. So perhaps you're asking "What is the rule of thumb?" Well, Dr. Tony Evans of Oakcliff Church in Dallas put it like this:
To high,
To low,
To tight,
Gotta go!
You don't have to get a whole new wardrobe, I have several lightweight scarves that I carry in my car in the event I may need one. I have found myself draping it over my shoulders or on my knees. Either way, it serves as a cover.
If you yourself know your pushing the limit, get that stuff under cover! I promise others will be able to see your heart-you don't have to show them.
Therefore I urge you brothers, in view of God's mercy to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God-this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of the mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is -his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:1-2
Note: Again, I believe God chose me to lead this class as I myself have struggled with this issue. I pray I honor him daily in my manner of dress. While this is a tough subject, if it goes unaddressed, God will hold me responsible for not acting so I write this in love my sisters.
I began the session by displaying my police uniform and making this statement. "When I wear this uniform, I wear it with pride. I wear it remembering who and what I represent. Who do you represent?" If we represent a woman of God, our manner of dress must reflect that.
Look, I did not feel worthy to lead this class as I myself like to push the hemlines. The way I gauge it is this "Would my manner of dress distract another from coming to Christ? Would I be the one responsible for that? Lastly, am I honoring God?"
I use to love watching Dancing with the Stars on Monday nights but frankly, I had to stop. Let me rephrase...I chose to stop watching it. When a local news program has a "Skimpiest Outfit Report" the day after, that's a bit much. So having a young man and a husband in the house, I said no more!
This past season however, I heard that Candace Cameron-Bure was a contestant. I wondered how this Christian woman would manage that. That question was quickly answered when she publicly made it know to the producers that she chose not to wear an outfit that would not honor God or her husband. THAT ladies, is how it's done. We can not fear being bold. So what if they said "Sorry, that won't work." So what? Nothing lost. But our convictions remain intact.
I get it....I am a woman. We all want to know we are accepted and loved and there are two thoughts here. First, we might do it because we are young. Second, we might do it because we are older. As a young woman, we can wear tight, low cut and short clothes and get attention. Later in life, perhaps our kids are gone, we're single again or we need to "feel accepted" consequently, we resort to the tight, low cut, and short.
As an officer, you have an expectation of me. If I answered your call and I walked up with my uniform shirt unzipped to mid chest, you might not only question my commitment to my job but also to the organization I represent.
As Christian women, we represent the one true God and He does not see young woman, older woman....He sees godly woman. Does your dress reflect a commitment, love, dedication for Christ? Candace Cameron-Bure said "God has changed me in ways words can't describe. He has transformed the way I think and live my life." That's what it's all about....transforming.
You may think that this is ridiculous and God would never reject us for immodesty. The issue is our heart. If our heart is with Christ, the rest should follow. So perhaps you're asking "What is the rule of thumb?" Well, Dr. Tony Evans of Oakcliff Church in Dallas put it like this:
To high,
To low,
To tight,
Gotta go!
You don't have to get a whole new wardrobe, I have several lightweight scarves that I carry in my car in the event I may need one. I have found myself draping it over my shoulders or on my knees. Either way, it serves as a cover.
If you yourself know your pushing the limit, get that stuff under cover! I promise others will be able to see your heart-you don't have to show them.
Therefore I urge you brothers, in view of God's mercy to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God-this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of the mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is -his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:1-2
Note: Again, I believe God chose me to lead this class as I myself have struggled with this issue. I pray I honor him daily in my manner of dress. While this is a tough subject, if it goes unaddressed, God will hold me responsible for not acting so I write this in love my sisters.
Thursday, July 31, 2014
What does your heart say?
I am a very sentimental person. I love nostalgia and vintage. I hold on to the precious and believe me, there is a fine line between that and hoarding. I find it interesting to see what people hold on to, what defines them.
I also love buying those things. I find it interesting that long ago, people had plates [saucers] with matching cups on them where ladies served coffee and cookies on the same plate. I have many of those-I love them.
But to tell you the truth, this is not about what I have in my cabinet, its about what I found in my kitchen cabinet. I went to get a large plastic cup to pour myself a good helping of iced tea and when I opened my lower cabinet I found a Dickie's Bar B Q cup...and another and another.
There were about ten yellow Dickie's cups in that cabinet! The first thing I thought was "Well, there's no lying now! Everyone will know we eat Dickie's Bar B Q and that we eat it often!"
The deal is that my husband introduced me to it a few months ago and I loooove their pulled pork sandwich with pickles. It is delish and on occasion we share it. Of course with our meal we have to have ice tea so that means two cups.
What amazed me about my discovery was that I have always heard "Your checkbook will tell what your true love is." My cabinet told what made our belly's happy.
I wondered what God could tell about me when he looked into my heart. Would he find bitterness, anger, envy, or would he find contentment, commitment and a desire to serve him. People can not see into our hearts anymore than they can see through a closed cabinet. However, when that door is opened we can see what is really inside.
So when you go along life's daily grind remember that whatever you are putting in your heart will eventually define you. Open that door to your heart and discover what it would say if others could see inside.
Don't judge me for loving pulled pork and I promise....whatever is in your heart, if it is something you need to turn over to God, he will not judge you.
I still love Dickie's and I'll continue to drink their tea but I pray that God will reveal to me what my heart says to others and I pray that it will honor him.
The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.
Luke 6:45
I also love buying those things. I find it interesting that long ago, people had plates [saucers] with matching cups on them where ladies served coffee and cookies on the same plate. I have many of those-I love them.
But to tell you the truth, this is not about what I have in my cabinet, its about what I found in my kitchen cabinet. I went to get a large plastic cup to pour myself a good helping of iced tea and when I opened my lower cabinet I found a Dickie's Bar B Q cup...and another and another.
There were about ten yellow Dickie's cups in that cabinet! The first thing I thought was "Well, there's no lying now! Everyone will know we eat Dickie's Bar B Q and that we eat it often!"
The deal is that my husband introduced me to it a few months ago and I loooove their pulled pork sandwich with pickles. It is delish and on occasion we share it. Of course with our meal we have to have ice tea so that means two cups.
What amazed me about my discovery was that I have always heard "Your checkbook will tell what your true love is." My cabinet told what made our belly's happy.
I wondered what God could tell about me when he looked into my heart. Would he find bitterness, anger, envy, or would he find contentment, commitment and a desire to serve him. People can not see into our hearts anymore than they can see through a closed cabinet. However, when that door is opened we can see what is really inside.
So when you go along life's daily grind remember that whatever you are putting in your heart will eventually define you. Open that door to your heart and discover what it would say if others could see inside.
Don't judge me for loving pulled pork and I promise....whatever is in your heart, if it is something you need to turn over to God, he will not judge you.
I still love Dickie's and I'll continue to drink their tea but I pray that God will reveal to me what my heart says to others and I pray that it will honor him.
The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.
Luke 6:45
Sunday, July 27, 2014
Let go
Since my father-in-law's passing in November, we have sorted through many, many things. We have located things from eras past and relished the memories of yesterday. We are not quite through all of it but have moved a lot of it out and to other hands.
One of the things I held on to was a sewing container that looks much like a modern day ottoman with storage. It has a lid that pops off and it was filled with afghans, threads, needles and such items. I emptied it and set it aside not wanting to send it off or give it up just yet.
This fall, our youngest will be living in an apartment just off campus and I thought he might want it. Not as a sewing container but as a place to store books and rest his feet. I held on to it and it was just sitting in an empty living room at my father-in-law's place.
The time came to clear the room so we moved it to our house. I placed it near our stairs still thinking our son would want it. When he came home he said he could not use it and would not be taking it. So...I kept it...for me! I wouldn't have to let go of it after all.
Then I heard a friend was in the same situation with college apartments so I "took inventory" and decided that I didn't really need the piece. I was going to give it to her. I picked it up and then said "NO" I want to keep it. Why? It was never mine, I had no attachment to it, it didn't even belong to my father or mother-in-law. I just liked it but something kept telling me to "let go!''
When I took it to my friend's house I simply and easily gave it to her. No attachment, no drama, no anxiety. It was now hers to do with as she wished. It was hers to decorate or change any way she wanted. I had let go.
Many times I am that way with my life. It is not and never has been but yet I want to hold on to it. I don't want to give it up. I don't want to let go because I know if I let go and give it back to God, He might change it, He might use it in a way different from my own plans.
It is not often easy to let go and let God take control but like that piece, I must remember that my life was never mine. It is God's and He created me to glorify Him.
So if you're still fighting for control over your life...let go!
Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.
Matthew 10:39
One of the things I held on to was a sewing container that looks much like a modern day ottoman with storage. It has a lid that pops off and it was filled with afghans, threads, needles and such items. I emptied it and set it aside not wanting to send it off or give it up just yet.
This fall, our youngest will be living in an apartment just off campus and I thought he might want it. Not as a sewing container but as a place to store books and rest his feet. I held on to it and it was just sitting in an empty living room at my father-in-law's place.
The time came to clear the room so we moved it to our house. I placed it near our stairs still thinking our son would want it. When he came home he said he could not use it and would not be taking it. So...I kept it...for me! I wouldn't have to let go of it after all.
Then I heard a friend was in the same situation with college apartments so I "took inventory" and decided that I didn't really need the piece. I was going to give it to her. I picked it up and then said "NO" I want to keep it. Why? It was never mine, I had no attachment to it, it didn't even belong to my father or mother-in-law. I just liked it but something kept telling me to "let go!''
When I took it to my friend's house I simply and easily gave it to her. No attachment, no drama, no anxiety. It was now hers to do with as she wished. It was hers to decorate or change any way she wanted. I had let go.
Many times I am that way with my life. It is not and never has been but yet I want to hold on to it. I don't want to give it up. I don't want to let go because I know if I let go and give it back to God, He might change it, He might use it in a way different from my own plans.
It is not often easy to let go and let God take control but like that piece, I must remember that my life was never mine. It is God's and He created me to glorify Him.
So if you're still fighting for control over your life...let go!
Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.
Matthew 10:39
Friday, July 18, 2014
Justice vs Mercy
How many times? How many times have you asked "God when are you going to see their sin and punish them?" I am so quick to want God to handle situations with discipline....for someone else, not me. You see, I can always justify my actions.
I recall a few years ago when New Orleans was struck with Hurricane Katrina. There was much loss of life and property and at that time, public servants in our city were called to additional shifts and heightened security. All the while, their mayor was in the limelight making arrogant, accusatory remarks. According to him, no one was helping, no one was doing enough, no one cared.
The issue was the arrogance and the stirring of situations. God gave him a voice as an individual in authority and he misused it. I know it struck my heart every time he told the people that no one wanted to help them or no one was making an effort to rescue them. In situations like natural disasters, you want to encourage and help people but he consistently brought negative attention to himself and his city.
I recall thinking "Stop it! Our city has opened its doors to help don't tell the people that no one cares!" I was very discouraged with his attitude and lack of leadership. The days, months and years passed and a new mayor was elected, the city was restored, and many rebuilt their homes.
Yet the thought of the damage done by reckless words loomed in my mind. Until two weeks ago.
Two weeks ago, I saw where the former mayor was indicted in federal court receiving 10 years for fraud and bribery. This individual who used his voice to criticize and belittle every leader in this country was himself living a double life, a life of luxury received illegally.
It is sad to believe that we could think that our sin would not be found out. It is even sadder to be the innocent victims of these lies.
You may still be sitting there wondering "when" God will take action against those who have harmed you. To you I say "God is not slow in keeping his promise!" While justice prevailed in this case, God is still a merciful God and this is one of his children. All of us are. As I examine myself and hope for justice for those who have hurt me, I pray that He extends mercy to me in my own actions.
The Lord is a God who avenges. O God who avenges, shine forth. Rise up Judge of the earth; pay back to the proud what they deserve. How long Lord, will the wicked, how long will the wicked be jubilant? They pour out arrogant words; all the evil doers are full of boasting. Psalm 94:1-4
I invite you to read the entire chapter of Psalm 94
I recall a few years ago when New Orleans was struck with Hurricane Katrina. There was much loss of life and property and at that time, public servants in our city were called to additional shifts and heightened security. All the while, their mayor was in the limelight making arrogant, accusatory remarks. According to him, no one was helping, no one was doing enough, no one cared.
The issue was the arrogance and the stirring of situations. God gave him a voice as an individual in authority and he misused it. I know it struck my heart every time he told the people that no one wanted to help them or no one was making an effort to rescue them. In situations like natural disasters, you want to encourage and help people but he consistently brought negative attention to himself and his city.
I recall thinking "Stop it! Our city has opened its doors to help don't tell the people that no one cares!" I was very discouraged with his attitude and lack of leadership. The days, months and years passed and a new mayor was elected, the city was restored, and many rebuilt their homes.
Yet the thought of the damage done by reckless words loomed in my mind. Until two weeks ago.
Two weeks ago, I saw where the former mayor was indicted in federal court receiving 10 years for fraud and bribery. This individual who used his voice to criticize and belittle every leader in this country was himself living a double life, a life of luxury received illegally.
It is sad to believe that we could think that our sin would not be found out. It is even sadder to be the innocent victims of these lies.
You may still be sitting there wondering "when" God will take action against those who have harmed you. To you I say "God is not slow in keeping his promise!" While justice prevailed in this case, God is still a merciful God and this is one of his children. All of us are. As I examine myself and hope for justice for those who have hurt me, I pray that He extends mercy to me in my own actions.
The Lord is a God who avenges. O God who avenges, shine forth. Rise up Judge of the earth; pay back to the proud what they deserve. How long Lord, will the wicked, how long will the wicked be jubilant? They pour out arrogant words; all the evil doers are full of boasting. Psalm 94:1-4
I invite you to read the entire chapter of Psalm 94
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Beep, Beep, Beep
Yesterday as I was driving I was listening to a sermon. It was a great sermon that had me on the edge of my driver's seat. I was listening intently as it appeared it was speaking directly to me. Then as I crossed a green light I heard it...three solid beeps. Beep, beep, beep it interrupted my sermon but more than that, it caused a concern in my spirit.
You see, these three beeps are normally followed by "This is a test of the emergency broadcast system" those words are not the ones that brought concern. The words to come were the impacting ones "In the event of a real emergency..." You see, before we could get to those words, the beeps incited a feeling of concern that was real. I thought of Iraq, Afghanistan, and our borders in one split second.
With things like they are in other countries, and with our kids being called to those countries to defend, I feared a threatening announcement. It was something that was instilled in me. For those of you that remember the 1960's game show Dream House, I recall watching that show and the beeps coming across. Our television screen displayed a bulls eye looking diagram and we heard the same message. It meant nothing to me except that it was interrupting my show!
Today, we would do good to heed to those three beeps and the interruption it creates. Interruption does not mean stop working. In fact in the interruption of those beeps got me going! We might need to work harder. Get deeper into the Word of God, go to our knees in prayer, share God's Word with others, develop our own worship routines and be diligent in the course.
We live in a time of three beeps...the emergency is praying for our country, praying for lost souls, serving our God and remembering what we believe and what we stand for.
Yes, the three beeps interrupted my sermon but I was immediately returned to it and I did not miss the message. The purpose of those three beeps at that moment was to bring me to the reality of much needed prayer for our country.
What area of your life could benefit from beep, beep, beep?
Jesus said to them: "Watch out that no one deceives you. Many will come in my name claiming 'I am he' and will deceive many. When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines. These are the beginning of birth pains. You must be on your guard. Mark 13: 5-9
You see, these three beeps are normally followed by "This is a test of the emergency broadcast system" those words are not the ones that brought concern. The words to come were the impacting ones "In the event of a real emergency..." You see, before we could get to those words, the beeps incited a feeling of concern that was real. I thought of Iraq, Afghanistan, and our borders in one split second.
With things like they are in other countries, and with our kids being called to those countries to defend, I feared a threatening announcement. It was something that was instilled in me. For those of you that remember the 1960's game show Dream House, I recall watching that show and the beeps coming across. Our television screen displayed a bulls eye looking diagram and we heard the same message. It meant nothing to me except that it was interrupting my show!
Today, we would do good to heed to those three beeps and the interruption it creates. Interruption does not mean stop working. In fact in the interruption of those beeps got me going! We might need to work harder. Get deeper into the Word of God, go to our knees in prayer, share God's Word with others, develop our own worship routines and be diligent in the course.
We live in a time of three beeps...the emergency is praying for our country, praying for lost souls, serving our God and remembering what we believe and what we stand for.
Yes, the three beeps interrupted my sermon but I was immediately returned to it and I did not miss the message. The purpose of those three beeps at that moment was to bring me to the reality of much needed prayer for our country.
What area of your life could benefit from beep, beep, beep?
Jesus said to them: "Watch out that no one deceives you. Many will come in my name claiming 'I am he' and will deceive many. When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places, and famines. These are the beginning of birth pains. You must be on your guard. Mark 13: 5-9
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