A DAY OFF

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Matthew 14:22 - 23

Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. After he dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone.

A DAY OFF

Last week I mentioned that you should take time for yourself. I did that this week. Our grandson Noah had a slight problem with the baby blanket I made him 5 years ago. It has been used to the point of absolute destruction. To be honest, the experiment he did with scissors did not help the blanket, but I think it had just been loved to death. I thought I could fix it, but upon close examination, there was no way to repair it. It says in the Bible that you should not put new wine in an old wine skin. You should not try to sew new material onto old either. It was time for a new blanket. Out came the sewing machine and I thoroughly enjoyed my day. It had been a long time since I had made something. Since I took the time to be off in a room by myself, doing something I love.

Jesus went off to pray -- by himself. We need to learn that. We need to take time for ourselves. It is not a selfish act.

I remember one time, when the children were grade school/junior high age and I had a really rough day. Not with the kids. Just one of those days. Things to do for the children. Things to do for my husband. Things to do for church, for scouts, in the house and for work. Things to do -- FOR EVERYONE EXCEPT ME. I discovered something that day. It seemed there was no me left. I was a mother. I was a wife. I was a committee member. I was a worker. But where was I in all that. I learned two things -- I could easily have walked out the door that day (I would have come back.) and I needed to find myself again. I first needed to be the person God had created. Only then could I be a good wife. A good mother. A good Christian. It may sound selfish, but I learned to take time for myself.

Do you ever feel like that? Do you feel like you have no life other than how other people need you? Your job is important. Your family is important. Your work at church is important. But YOU are important. Take care of yourself. Take time for yourself.

Remember -- Jesus went off to pray.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Again back to last week -- it is a matter of time and how you use it. Do you know how to say no? Are you on too many committees? Are you trying to be a super person --thinking you can do it all? Do you make time for yourself? How can you make time for yourself?

LET US PRAY

Dear Jesus, I have so much in my life. So many blessings, but sometimes it seems I am running here and running there. Show me how to be the child you created. Teach me to go off to pray. Teach me to be the best, whole person I can be. Make me a strong me, because then I can be there for others. ………………… Amen.

STOP THE CLOCK

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Ecclesiastes 3:1 - 8

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.

STOP THE CLOCK

Are the days getting shorter? I know there are 24 hours in each day, but it sure does seem like time is flying by. It is April already! Time can go so fast. Just yesterday --

Just yesterday, we were eating turnips and now it is time to plant the garden again. Bill has the potatoes and onions planted. The rhubarb is up. When the snow quits (Yes it is still snowing in Indiana. In April!) He will plant corn, green beans and tomatoes.

Just yesterday, I did the monthly reports and it is time to do them again.

Just yesterday, I cleaned the house and – okay, so it was not yesterday and we will forget this example.

Just yesterday, Kailyn was born and she is in the sixth grade now. Matthew is in the fourth grade. Joshua is in the first grade. Nathan is in kindergarten and Noah and Timothy are not far behind.

Just yesterday, I graduated from high school – oops, that was 43 years ago.

Just yesterday, I married Bill – oops, that was almost 42 years ago.

Just yesterday, I had a baby – oops, that was 40 years ago.

We mark our lives by the passing of time and events. The garden season. Work to be done. Grandchildren growing up. When we graduate, when we marry, when we have our own children.

Time goes fast, so do not let life pass you by. We must enjoy and take advantage of each day.

Do something today to celebrate. Blow bubbles. Wiggle your toes in the mud. Sing even if you are not in the shower. Watch the sunrise and the sunset. Talk to God.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Do you think time is going too fast? What do you wish you had time to do? How can you change your life to allow more time for the important things -- for family? For friends? For yourself? For God?

LET US PRAY

My Precious God, Slow me down. I rush from this to that and forget to enjoy the day. I want to laugh like a child. I want to enjoy the rain. I want to thank you for flowers and trees. I want to close my eyes, take a deep slow breath and quietly talk to you. Hear my prayer and quiet my fears. Lord, help me have time for ………………………………… Amen

WALKING TO THE GRAVE

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Luke 24:1-8

On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 'The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.' " Then they remembered his words.

EASTER -- A WONDERFUL TIME TO CELEBRATE!!!

We are having Sunrise Service at our church and the Minister asked if I would write a responsive reading. So, I started thinking about Easter and I started thinking about how it must have felt to walk to the grave. That thought sent me to the scriptures. As I was checking in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, I discovered that there were a few differences on just exactly who went to the grave.

Matthew says Mary Magdalene and the other Mary. Mark agrees but adds Salome. Luke (who I think might just be a little bit of a male chauvinist) referred to them as "the women," until he finally named names and added Joanna and others. John comes in with another story altogether. He has Mary Magdalene going to the tomb, finding it empty, calling in the guys, who look around and go home. Mary, waiting because she didn't know what to do, was blessed because Jesus appeared to her.

And then no one could agree on if it was one man or two in the tomb telling the good news. TAKING ALL THAT INTO ACCOUNT --- going to grave -- be it one, two or many -- would not have been an easy journey. I came up with this responsive reading.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Walk with me up the path to the grave. Be beside me as we go to prepare the body. Each step is hard. I know I should hurry, but I am so afraid.

Do not be afraid. Remember everything Jesus told you.

We all listened as Jesus spoke. His voice was always so sure. So calm. To know that I will never hear that voice again breaks my heart.

Do not be afraid. Remember everything Jesus told you.

The grave is closer now. I wonder how we will roll away the stone. We have the spices and perfumes. We will attend to the body, of Jesus, with love and respect. But how will we roll away the stone?

Do not be afraid. Remember everything Jesus told you.

We are almost there. No one is saying a word. We are each lost in our own thoughts. Each wondering what will happen. How can we go on?

Do not be afraid. Remember everything Jesus told you.

There is the grave. I don't understand -- The stone is rolled away. The body of the Lord Jesus is not here. Where is my Lord?

Do not be afraid. Remember everything Jesus told you.

Hurry. Hurry. We must tell the others. How afraid I was until I heard the truth. Why did I not remember? The men in gleaming clothes simply asked -- "Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!" Remember -- "The son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again."

He is risen!! He is risen!! He is risen!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
QUESTION OF THE DAY

How do you feel about Easter? Did you prepare for Easter by understanding the Last Supper? Did you prepare for Easter by realizing the forgiveness made possible by the cross? Did you prepare for the absolute joy of Easter morning? Are you prepared for a risen Lord?

LET US PRAY

Dear Jesus, Thank you that the women found an empty tomb. An empty grave with angels to proclaim that you are risen. Not dead! Alive! I am brought to my knees at the thought that you held a Last Supper, suffered and died on the cross and then arose from the dead. AND YOU DID THIS FOR ME. FOR ME!!! My Jesus -- A RISEN SAVIOR. Let me go from Easter with the Holy Spirit so wrapped around my soul that I am never even one heartbeat away from you. This Easter I thank you for the sacrifice you made for me. Help me always be worthy. .................................................... Amen

Note: Celebrate Easter. It should be a time of smiles. And joyful noise. And wondrous praise. It should be a celebration!!!

THE SHEPHERDS -- LEADING BY EXAMPLE

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Philippians 3:17

Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you.

THE SHEPHERDS -- LEADING BY EXAMPLE

Stop and watch the people around you. They are teaching you how to cope with life. I have learned and am continuing to learn from each person -- young and old -- that I meet.

I have watched as you care for your loved one, who has suffered with physical and mental challenges. You have taken on new responsibilities with love and care and patience. I have watched as you face new limits of your own physical capabilities. You have shown me how to help others and that it is okay to ask for help.

I have watched as children have died, leaving an empty place in the family portrait and a hole in the heart of the parents which can never be filled. As parents, you did not turn your back on God and His Church, but turned to God to help you understand. I have seen you stand strong, even when you felt weak inside. Through you, I have learned to trust God and know He has prepared a place for all of His children.

I have watched as life-long partnerships have ended and one is left. I have seen strength come out of grief, as the day-to-day demands filled the empty hours. I have seen individuals begin a new life alone. I have seen new unions take place, creating new families. Your example shows me how to face our uncertain future.

If you have less of life’s experiences, do not feel left out. I am learning from you as well. I am watching your generation raise our future. I am seeing families who want Christ as an active part of their lives. I am learning new songs from our youth and young adults. Songs that express our beliefs to a new beat. At the same time, our youth are singing songs that are the building blocks of our faith. Songs that bring our history and ancestry into their lives.

Then all of this is tied together by the others who touch our church – The person who keeps our house of worship clean and makes it so we can walk in the door for class, for dinners, for prayer. The Sunday School teachers who so unselfishly prepare all of those lessons. Those involved in the music that makes our service peaceful, exciting, or reverent. Music can make us tap our toes, bring a tear to our eye, or touch our heart. The church secretary/treasurer who keeps our dates straight, our bills paid and who listens as we tell about our hopes, our dreams and our failures. The ministers who help us understand the word of God and how to make it apply to each second of our lives. You are there when we have doubts, when we have fears and when we have joys.

Yes, each of you is an example of how life should be lived. You are one of my shepherds.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Yes, this is a longer than most of the day’s readings, but it raises a very big question. Where do you find the shepherds in your life? Are those you use as role models/examples leading you in the right direction?

LET US PRAY

Dear Shepherd, You are the supreme role model. You have lessons written for us to follow. We can read the Bible, but sometimes the Bible is hard to understand. Thank you for earthly examples of how we should live. Thank you for ………………………………… Amen

Although the last post is dated March 6, 2007, I hope you realized there were two new devotionals. I did not know drafts would publish under the draft date, instead of the day they were posted. Live and learn.

A FRIEND GOES HOME

TODAY'S SCRIPTURES:

To you, O Lord, I left up my soul; in you I trust, O my God. Psalm 25:1

Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his: we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Psalm 100:3

The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. Psalm 23:1

He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young. Isaiah 40:11

"I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me. John 10:14

"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. You know the way to the place where I am going." John 14:1-4

A FRIEND GOES HOME

February 16, 2007, I asked you to pray for our friends Jim and Barbara. Barbara had ALS and was in need of prayers. Barbara has gone home to be with the Father and is now free of the body that was confining her to a bed and making it hard to breathe. Barbara was a gift to everyone she knew and left each of us a better person.

Barbara was such an inspiration to all who knew her. During the time ALS took her body away from her, it did not stop her from continually being concerned about others. When a friend told Barbara that they were sorry to hear she had ALS, she said, "Better me than someone else." And she meant it! To the end, she was seeing that notes of encouragement were sent to many, many people. To the end, she knew that God had a purpose for her life. To the end, Barbara had a spirit that was a wonder to behold. Barbara was a child of God and His light was reflected in her life. She trusted the shepherd.

Barbara was sure of two things -- God had a plan for her and that she wanted to live that plan. Believe me, a new Saint is watching over all of us!!!!!

My sister, Margaret, sent me a message -- "Your friend has changed your life and, so in her passing, she is not really gone, but continues in the things she has shown you. The things you now show others."

Celebrate each day, because we never know what tomorrow will hand us. I just hope that I can handle what comes my way one-tenth as graciously as Barbara did.

Thank you for reading about my friend.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Do you know someone like Barbara? Someone who puts others first. Someone who has such faith and trust in God's purpose for their life that they can handle the valleys.

When someone dies, where will you turn to help you understand death and grief? A minister can help you understand and show you were to find scriptures that can give comfort. A friend? A book? Max Lucado wrote a book, Safe in the Shepherd's Arms. This book offers hope and encouragement from Psalm 23. Although this book was printed in 2002, most bookstores can order it. Just the title gives comfort. What peace to know we ARE safe in the Shepherd's arms.

LET US PRAY

Dear Shepherd, We are comforted to know that a loved one is home with you. To know their body, mind and soul are whole again. No more pain. No longer confined in a body that is not working properly. For myself, I ask for understanding when a loved one dies and I thank you for the words of hope, compassion and promise of eternal life that I find in Your Holy Word. As I pray, I remember loved ones that have left wonderful memories in my heart. I remember ……………………………….. Amen.

A JOB TO DO

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Romans 12:4-8

Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.

A JOB TO DO

I always know when spring is just around the corner. How? Mr. Mole makes his presence known in our yard. He does not even wait until the grass is green. I told my husband, Bill, “We need to do something about Mr. Mole.” As he went out the door, he said something like, “We? Where does she get this we stuff?”

You see, I do not have a “honey-do” list. I have a “we-list,” but the “we-list” means I see what needs to be done and then tell Bill. Works for me. The “we-list” ranks right up there with my theory on the checkbook. Bill’s name is on there first and that means he has to put the money in. My name is second and means I take the money out. (Just kidding here.) We do work together. We have never had your job/my job. For 41 years, we have worked as one. That is how our church should be.

We should work together, each finding our strength and using that gift to make the church stronger. Some can sing. Some can teach. Some can talk and some can listen. Some can get rid of moles. There are opportunities in the church for each of us. What gift do you share with your church family?

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Do you make a list of “things” that need to be done around the house? What is your favorite job at home? What is your least favorite? Do you make a list of “things” you could do at church? What is your favorite church job? Do you know where your talent can be best used?

LET US PRAY

Our Heavenly Creator, You created each of us to be individuals. You made me a unique person. Help me to see me as you see me, with the capability of working for you. Let me see my strengths and guide me as I use the talents you have given me. Guide me to ………………………………… Amen

WHY TAKE A VACATION?

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Genesis 1:31

God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning -- the sixth day.

WHY TAKE A VACATION?

Travel does many things. It relaxes the body and soul. It allows you to see how other people live and puts before you new landscapes.

Interstate driving gets you there quickly and large cities have an energy that makes them exciting, but taking the side roads lets you experience the area and enjoy the view. You see towns with empty stores and old men sitting on benches wondering why things have changed so fast. You observe quiet, restful places to stay settled alongside the flashing neon signs of a tourist trap. You see prime farmland growing houses.

As you go down the road, you are constantly reminded of the bounty you receive from the land. As you approach small towns, you are reminded where our strength comes from, because the first things you usually see are the church steeples.

When you travel the back roads, you witness the character of our country. You can travel through old towns very alive and old towns being allowed to die. You can see beautiful old churches. You can watch parents preparing for the future, as they wait at bus stops with their children. And communities honoring the past, with statues to fallen heroes, in immaculate cemeteries.

You can visit new places and revisit some favorite places. You can eat in interesting restaurants and stay in a cabin by a river. You can see elk and buffalo. And mountain goats and eagles. And drive on paths where you have to stop until the cattle and sheep decide to give you the right of way.

No matter where you go, it is good to get away from your daily routine, to see what is around the bend of a different road. But, no matter where you go or what you see, there is nothing to compare to the sight of the door to your own home.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

God has given us wonders to see. Those wonders can be far away or right at your back door. If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go? Would you take someone with you? What would you want to see when you got there?

LET US PRAY

Dear Creator of the world, How can I ever thank you for all the wonderful sights you gave me? The mountains and the plains. The oceans and the rivers. Please give me a spirit of adventure so I want to see new sights and enjoy new places. I know those places do not have to be far away. Sometimes I just need to see what is outside my door. Thank you for the chance to see ………………………………… Amen

YOUR INSIDES

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: 1 Samuel 2:2

“There is no one holy like the Lord; there is no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God.

YOUR INSIDES ---

Just as our nights can be jumbled full of feelings, emotions, worry and confusion, so can our days.

Do you ever feel like you might explode?
It is nothing you do or anyone does to you
It is just there, inside you, and you must wait for it to pass

Do you sometimes feel so alone?
It can happen even if there are many people around
It is just an empty feeling deep inside where no one can reach

Do you feel such deep love?
It is a close feeling, as if you are one with so many people
Love is one of the best feelings of all

Do you ever feel so at peace with yourself?
It is a satisfaction with who you are and what you do
It is a comfortable time to enjoy

Do you ever feel like you are sitting still?
It is a time of wanting to do different things
It is the spirit that keeps you learning

Do you ever feel like there is something out there waiting for you?
It is knowing you have an important job yet to do
It is as if the things you are leaning now are preparing you for your future

Do you ever feel God’s arms around you?
It is as if the whole world is alive and bright
It is a time you strive for, knowing your faith is there at all times

Do you ever feel --- well who knows?
Feeling is the way you learn, by trials and errors, highs and lows
Life -- an ongoing change of feelings and emotions

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

How do your insides feel today? Do you know that you are never truly alone? Do you know that no matter how you feel, you have a rock to lean on?

LET US PRAY

Dear God, I turn to you, my Rock. I know that not all of my days will be easy. I know that some days I will feel alone. I know that some days I will feel scared. I know that you are my Rock when ………………………………… Amen

BE A CHILD

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Mark 10:13-16

People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them.

BE A CHILD

Watch a child and you will see how to live.

Toy or box? How many times have you seen a little child take a toy, usually an expensive toy mom and dad are excited about, out of the box? Do they play with the toy or the box? Yup, the box. It is only when we get older that we see dollar signs.

Rose or dandelion? Children at play will leave roses alone. Not because of the thorns, but because of dandelions. Children’s eyes light up when they see those yellow flowers. They see hair decorations, they see yellow under chins and they see seeds blowing in the wind. It is only when we get older that we discover the weed.

Shoes or bare feet? Oh, the freedom of bare feet. Wiggling toes in the grass. Splashing in a puddle. Picking up rocks with toes. It is only when we get older that we discover stones hurt and mud has to be washed off.

It is only when we get older that we change how we look at the world.

Children want to play ball. Adults want to organize a team.

Children love heroes. The good guy always wears a white hat. Adults do not care what color of hat their hero wears, as long as they know how to handle a ball, or act, or sing, or ……..

Children, with a child's honest curiosity, will ask a person why they are in a wheelchair and then accept it. Adults will turn their head. They do not know how to ask those hard questions.

Children know how to blow bubbles, look at clouds, laugh, sing off key, take naps, ..........

Adults know how to …….. What do we know how to do? What can we learn from children?

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Do you remember what it was like to lay on your back and look at the clouds? What did you see there? What is your best childhood memory?

LET US PRAY

We come to you as your children, Dear Lord, We want a simple faith. We want to celebrate with the joy of a child. We want to smile when we pray. We want to appreciate, not question, the wonders of your world. We want to lift our eyes to heaven and say ………………………………… Amen

Prayer request: I have a friend, Barbara, who has Lou Gehrig's Disease. Barbara and her husband really, really need our prayers. Please say a prayer for them. Thank you, Mary

COMPUTER KEYS

TODAY’S SCRIPTURES

1 Corinthians 10:12-13 -- So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall. No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.

Psalm 119:9-10 -- 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.

COMPUTER KEYS

When I used my first computer, I used it much like a fancy typewriter. I honestly – and this is no exaggeration – tried to find that “any key” the computer book told me to hit. There was a Ctrl Key, an Alt Key and all those F1, F2, etc keys. No “any key” to be found on that keyboard. Talk about feeling silly when I finally figured that one out. Then I learned about entering formulas, and formatting, and copy and paste. Then email. The internet. Wow, this was getting fun. I learned and my abilities grew. I am still learning and believe me; I do not want to go back to a typewriter.

We can apply the same principles to our lives. We can go on using our lives like a fancy typewriter and never move forward or we can learn. We can study. We can listen. We can change. We can grow.

Then there is that “delete key” on the computer. One very handy key! There are so many wonderful things about being online. There are also many not-so-wonderful. There are emails I just delete, delete, and delete. Then there are the ones that look okay until I open them. That is when I use the delete key quickly.

Again, just like life. We encounter “stuff” everyday we delete very quickly from our lives. We know to turn our backs and walk away. Sometimes, though, the outside looks good and it is not until we get past the pretty packaging that we realize things are not as they seem. We need to use the delete key quickly before we fall for the deception.

Make your life the best it can be. Learn. Grow. And most important of all, delete the “stuff” out of life that can get between you and God.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Where do you need to use the delete key in your life? God provides support when we are tempted. He does not expect us to fight alone. Where can you turn for help?

LET US PRAY

Almighty God, I am so thankful that you are strong. I need your strength to surround me when I am tempted. I need to have you carry me when I cannot stand and to guide me away from temptation when I am weak. Give me eyes that see temptation and the ability to turn away. Let my feet carry me in the opposite direction. Make me strong as I battle against the temptation to ………………………………… Amen

QUIET TIME -- MAYBE

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Matthew 18:19-20

“Again, I tell you that if two of your on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.”

QUIET TIME -- MAYBE

In Indiana, February is a dreary month. The sky is usually overcast. The snow is melted (although this year we still have snow) and you can see the winter’s accumulation of trash along the roadside. The ground is muddy and the sun hides behind those clouds. There is one really good thing about February – IT DOESN’T LAST VERY LONG!!! Bill always says there is a reason February has only 28/29 days. That is long enough. I always hope when February leaves, it takes the flu and winter colds with it. But even during February, there are committee meetings.

Sometimes I get to church early for a meeting and I go to the sanctuary for a few quiet moments. Well, not quiet during the day. You can hear the pre-school children, you can hear people walking down the hall, you can hear the furnace, you can hear the traffic and you can hear the chatter in the church office.

At night, it is a little bit quieter, but not much. Sometimes cleaning is being done and you can hear the sweeper. You can hear other committee members coming in. And choir practice. And the furnace is running. And there is traffic noise.

Would I want to hear just quiet? No children’s voices. No choir. No furnace. No fellow church members. No traffic. No custodian. No church secretary. “NO WAY!” These noises mean our church is alive and busy. The traffic noise makes me realize we are a part of the world. I do not want to shut the world out. I want to invite the world in.

Next time you are in the church, listen to the sounds your church makes. Be a part of the noise.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

What noise do you make in your church? Is it a good noise?

LET US PRAY

Dear God, Your church is a busy place. It is a place where children come to learn. It is a place where adults praise you with song and glorify you with worship. Your church is a place where I can come to pray. Your church is a place where I can join other believers. Thank you for your church. When I am in church let me ………………………………… Amen

STANDING ON THE SIDELINES

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Matthew 25:21

“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’

STANDING ON THE SIDELINES

A section of our Sunday School quarterly was on the Book of Revelation. Talk about confusing. Confusing until David and Joyce shared a story with us about a Methodist work trip they had just finished.

David told about their time spent working at a school - a school for kids in trouble. He told how the youth wanted to see their motor homes and were amazed at the size (or lack of size) of those homes on wheels and, of course, all wanted to see the bathrooms. Then the kids were treated to those irresistible graham crackers topped with marshmallows and chocolate. But not all of the kids.

Each day they work for the privileges they will receive the next. That evening, some had to stand on the sidelines to pay for their behavior of the day before. How hard to watch others having fun and realize that you blew it.

Then it hit me – That is what Revelation is all about. It is a picture of tomorrow. We are working now for our reward tomorrow. We do not want to be on the sidelines. We do not want to see others receive rewards that we could be sharing. We do not know when Revelation’s “tomorrow” will come, but, come it will. One question – When your day of Revelation comes, where will you be? Standing on the sidelines, realizing that you blew it, or celebrating your reward.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

It is a good thing we cannot see into the future, but if we could -- if we could see when our last day would be -- and that last day was -- right this very instant -- where would you be? Enjoying your reward or standing on the sidelines?

LET US PRAY

Dear Heavenly Father, I do not know your plan for me. I do not know when you will ask for an accounting of my talents, my actions. I will try to live each day for you. When I hear “Well done, good and faithful servant!”, I hope it is because I have lived my life in such a way as to earn my reward. I will ………………………………… Amen

ONE SIDE OF A CONVERSATION

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Mark 1:35 and Matthew 6:5-8

Very early, in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. -- Mark 1:35

“And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. -- Matthew 6:5-8

ONE SIDE OF A CONVERSATION

When you are in a room and someone else answers the phone, you only hear one side of the conversation. If the person answering the phone says, “Yes.” “No.” “Okay.” you have no idea what is going on.

If the conversation goes like this – “No I haven’t started supper yet.” “Pizza sounds good.” “Meet you in 20 minutes.” – you know you are having pizza for supper.

My husband answered the phone one evening and this is what I heard –

“Hi Noah.” (Our grandson, Noah, was two-year-old at the time.)

“You fell in the pond.”

“You went clear under.”

“Daddy pulled you out.”

“Let me talk to your mommy.”

Believe me; I knew exactly what had happened and quickly said an “Amen” that Noah was okay.

This made me ponder what someone would think if they heard me praying. Would they know that I believe and thank God for this world and all the wonders put here for us? Would they know that I trust God with my fears? Would they know that I pray for others, not just my own needs? Would they know that I could also quietly listen to God? Would they know that I have regular conversations with God, not just pleas for help when I get in over my head? Would they hear me worship ? Would they ………..This list could go on and on and on.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

How do you pray? Do you send up quick “Thank you prayers?” Do you say long, long prayers? Do you fall asleep as you pray at bedtime? How does your prayer life need to improve?

LET US PRAY

Are you listening Lord? Sometimes I wonder how you hear so many praying at once. To my ears, it would be a jumble of noise. But you know every hair on my head and every thought I have. You know my needs before I do. Let my prayers be prayers of worship and praise. Let my prayers be conversations with you. Let my prayers ………………………………… Amen

BUT I AM SLEEPY

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE -- Matthew 11:28-30

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, and I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

BUT I AM SLEEPY

Ever have one of those nights when you just cannot get to sleep?

Sometimes, not often, just as you are ready to slip into that void called slumber, your mind takes a strange turn. It goes from today, to yesterday, to tomorrow, until they melt into one. You think, "Am I, was I, or am I to be?" It is that time when sleep will not come and dreams wait.

There is no reality and you are alone, even when there is someone beside you. The rest of the world sleeps -- only you are awake. The quiet is very loud and ideas come and go so quickly they are hard to hold onto. Beautiful poems are written in an instant and just as quickly forgotten. Problems are solved, but the solutions seem to melt as new questions form. The challenges of tomorrow invade the peaceful memory of a sunset.

As breathing is controlled and dreams are invited in, the moment is used to question yesterday and to fear tomorrow.

You are glad you do not do battle with sleep often. Is it your inner soul dealing with reality or just those peanut butter crackers you ate before going to bed?

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Everyone hates it when sleep does not come quickly. That is when our mind goes nuts. What do you do when that happens to you? Do you get up and watch TV? Do you just wait for sleep to come? Do you pray?

LET US PRAY

Dear giver of rest, You have taken my burdens. You have taken my cares. Please still my heart and mind when I am anxious or worried or cannot sleep. Give me rest when ………………………………… Amen

I’M BEING GOOD -- FOR A CHANGE

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Titus 3:1-8

Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.

At one time, we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another. But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life. This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone.

I’M BEING GOOD -- FOR A CHANGE

Now my grandson, Joshua, just makes me smile. He has a way of looking at you with his head tilted down, eyes looking up and his mouth in a sheepish grin that makes him seem innocent of all charges. Usually this is not the case. Being the second in a family of four boys, he causes his share of trouble. But there was that one time, when I was taking care of the boys so their parents could have a few days away, that he really was good.

I had to get after Matthew and Matthew said, “Boy, she is tough!”

Noah got in trouble and wanted me to count to seven instead of the usual three.

For Timothy I needed a recording saying, “No. No. Get Down. Get back in here.”

Joshua just behaved. He helped get Timothy down the steps. He helped set the table for supper. He took his bath. He got dressed for school -- the first time I asked. He put his Game Boy down when I told him he had played with it enough. He went to bed on time. He didn’t start any fights with his brothers. For three days, he was good!

Now to be honest, this probably was a record. But here again, a lesson on life.

Some days it is easy to be good. Sometimes even a whole week. A month is a stretch. And forget about a whole year. No matter how hard we try, we slip up. We do things we know are wrong. We say things we know we shouldn’t. We ignore those different from us. We open our doors and hearts to only certain people.

The great thing is that we are not alone in our struggle to be good. God is beside us.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

How long can you be good? What do you need to change to make being good last for more than a day or a week? How can you help other people be good? Is being good, good enough?

LET US PRAY

Dear God, I do try to be good, but I know that is not good enough. Each day I need to be renewed by the Holy Spirit. I need to reflect your grace and your mercy. With your help, I can learn to have patience, with others and myself. With your help, I can be more understanding. With your help, guided by the Holy Spirit, I can………………………………… Amen

THINGS WE SHOULD ALWAYS REMEMBER

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

Praise the Lord. I will extol the Lord with all my heart in the council of the upright and in the assembly. Great are the works of the Lord; they are pondered by all who delight in them. Glorious and majestic are his deeds, and his righteousness endures forever. He has caused his wonders to be remembered; the Lord is gracious and compassionate. He provides food for those who fear him; he remembers his covenant forever. He has shown his people the power of his works, giving them the lands of other nations. They works of his hand are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy. They are steadfast for ever and ever, done in faithfulness and uprightness. He provided redemption for his people; he ordained his covenant forever -- holy and awesome is his name. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.

Psalm 111

THINGS WE SHOULD ALWAYS REMEMBER

To start with --
** the way it feels to squish mud between your toes and how it feels to lie in the grass and watch clouds become dogs or cats or elephants or ice cream cones,
** how a child's hand feels in yours when they are trusting you to get them to the other side of the street,
** the carefree joy of feeling the wind in your hair when you are driving along on a beautiful summer day,
** the inner calm that comes from walking the beach and watching the waves come and go as the tide carries your troubles away and brings back a peaceful spirit,
** the taste of cheesecake,
** the look in the eyes of a dog when you begin to play their favorite fetch game,
** and the sizzling, popping and cracking sounds the wood in a fireplace makes.

Of course, no list would be complete without --
> swinging,
> talking to children,
> hearing stories about our parents,
> unwrapping a package,
> and the words "please" and "thank you.”

Also, not to be forgotten are --
= sitting quietly in church,
= hearing a favorite hymn,
= receiving forgiveness,
= feeling the joy of the Lord,
= and knowing that God is always beside you.

QUESTION OF THE DAY

What do you want to remember?

LET US PRAY

Dear God, You have given me so many joys. Let me never forget them. Let me always remember how a gentle breeze feels as it brushes my cheek. Let me never get to old to celebrate the wonders around me. These little things awaken my senses and remind me of the joy of living. Thank you God, for ………………………………… Amen

THE GIFT OF TIME

Can you believe it? 2006 is almost over. A new year is about to begin. I have found out one thing -- time goes faster the older you get! But time is a fleeting moment. A fleeting moment that can change your life in an instant.

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?

And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Matthew 6:25 - 34

THE GIFT OF TIME

We have received so many gifts in our lives and one of the most valuable is time. Do we really appreciate the time we have? Do we really have time?

During the week in June 2000, time and priorities came into focus.

Many years ago, we had a young man who spent numerous hours, at our home with our son. During the week, this young man lost his father. In an instant, his father's heart had stopped. In an instant, there was a new generation leading the family.

During the week, our small town felt the impact of a tornado. There were blessings -- the tornado went enough north that it missed the town, the retirement homes and a mobile home park. Only slight physical injuries were received. You could follow the tornado because barns were destroyed, houses were damaged and trees were thrown in every direction. In an instant, lives were changed.

During the week, a young man and his wife were headed home after helping clean-up the tornado damage. They did not make it across the railroad track. This young man, paralyzed from an accident a few years back, would now have to recover and face the loss of a loved one. In an instant, a life was lost and a life was again tragically altered.

How many times do we take tomorrow for granted? How much time do we waste worrying what will happen tomorrow? How many times do we forget that an instant can decide whether we will see our loved ones again, watch our children grow or enjoy the wonder of grandchildren. Or walk in the woods. Or hear our favorite song. Or eat peanut butter fudge. Or laugh. Or cry. Or pray.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Yes, you have to be prepared for tomorrow and the day after tomorrow, but do you put tomorrow before today? How do you spend your time? Do you worry so much that you do not see the blessings that are here, NOW? Do you need to begin the New Year calling a family member or friend that you have not gotten along with lately? Do you need to spend more time with family and less watching TV or less computer time? (Of course that does not apply to the time you spend checking out my blog.) How do you spend your time?

LET US PRAY

Oh God, Time is a precious commodity. Teach me to use it wisely. Teach me to appreciate the time I have to pray. To laugh. To rest. You have given me time to ………………………………… Amen

Merry Christmas ! ! ! I hope your Christmas day will be a time to remember the best Christmas gift ever -- The gift of the Christ Child. This Christmas let us all unite in a prayer for peace. -- Mary

A CHRISTMAS PRAYER --

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”

Luke 2:8-15

A CHRISTMAS PRAYER

Dear Heavenly Father, It’s Christmas morning and I awoke early. I have always loved getting up early this one day of the year. As a child I would lie in bed, as the rest of the house slept, wanting to shout, “It’s Christmas! Wake up!” I must confess that I was too excited to sleep because of the gifts under the tree. I was wondering what I would find. Would the gift be what I had asked for?
I became a wife and then a mother. I still could not sleep on Christmas morning. I would get up and wait for our son, Bill, and our daughter, Terri, to wake up. Sometimes I would wake them, because I could not stand the quiet anymore. “It’s Christmas! Wake up!” I must admit that, as a mother, I was too excited to sleep because I wanted to see the reaction of the children. Did they receive the gift they dreamed of?
As a wife, mother and grandmother, I still like getting up early on Christmas Day. Not quite as early as years past, but I am still too excited to sleep in. But now I know what was really calling me all these years. “It is Christmas! Wake up!”
Oh Lord, is that the way you feel? Do you get excited every Christmas? Do you look at your children and anticipate their waking up? Do you wait for them to begin the day? This special day. Proclaiming from heaven, “It’s Christmas! Wake up!” Do you look at the faces of your children as they celebrate the gift you sent?
Merry Christmas God. Thank you for the gift of Jesus. The gift I use everyday of my life. The gift that makes me get up early Christmas morning and shout, “It’s Christmas! Wake up!” Amen

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Do you enjoy Christmas? Do you celebrate the real meaning or just open gifts and eat? Do memories of past Christmas days enrich your Christmas celebration or do those memories bring tears? (I hope they enrich your life, but if they bring tears, know that God sent the gift that dries those tears away.)

LET US PRAY

Dear God, Do wake me up. Do not let me sleep and miss Christmas. Do wake me up. Do not let me sleep and miss what you have to offer. I cannot imagine what the shepherds thought when they heard the heavenly host making such a noise. I bet they were scared. Sometimes I am scared, but the more awake I become to your word, the fears fall away. Do wake me up. Do not let me sleep and miss ………………………………… Amen

THE GIFT

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.”

“Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his flocks and herds?”

Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

John 4:10 - 14

THE GIFT

The Gift appeared under the Christmas tree as if by magic.
As I picked up the package, I could tell it was special.
I did not shake it, I was afraid whatever was inside would break.
The paper made my fingers tingle, it seemed to glow.
This small gift had been wrapped with much care.

As I untied the bow, I stopped.
Anticipation and excitement filled the air.
The clock ticked, but time seemed to stand still.
I began to wonder if this gift really was for me.
Could there be a mistake?

I opened the box and then I understood.
Coming from the gift was a feeling of strength --
a gentle, quiet strength - and a feeling of peace.
The Gift was for me, but not for me to keep to myself.
This was a gift to share, a gift with no limit of time or space.

Inside the box was a simple paper, a birth announcement.
"Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy,
which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David,
a Savior, which is Christ the Lord."

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

What is the best gift you have ever received from your family or from a friend? What is the best gift you have ever received from God?

LET US PRAY

Dear Heavenly Father, We have received so many gifts from you, from the beginning of time you have given us all we need. This gift though is special. To give us your Son. A gift of a baby. A gift to save our lives. Thank you for this gift and ………………………… Amen

THE FIRST CHRISTMAS LETTER

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

(Mary’s Song) And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me -- holy is his name.
His mercy extends to those who fear him from generation to generation.
He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble.
He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, even as he said to our fathers.

Luke 1:46-55

THE FIRST CHRISTMAS LETTER

Greetings to all of our family and friends,

This has been some year and I wanted to fill you in. As you know, I became engaged to a fine man, Joseph. The community had been informed about our plans and we were very happy. Then the strangest thing happened.

I was visited by an angel! I know that is hard to believe. I am just a small town girl and was shocked when Gabriel came with a message from God. I was told that I had been picked to carry God’s Son. The angel even told me what to name the baby – Jesus. I was confused at first and could not begin to imagine all the consequences of this announcement. The Holy Spirit came upon me and I conceived.

Joseph was also confused when I told him I was with child. After all, I was a virgin. Why should he believe me? I think he seriously considered walking away, but then an angel told him I was telling the truth. Joseph believed. Joseph understood. Joseph is a good man.

I went to visit my cousin Elizabeth and when I walked in the door, the child she was carrying jumped in her womb. Elizabeth then called me “blessed among women.” Oh what a time we had. Elizabeth was so excited about being with child. Why who would have thought such a thing was possible at her age? Truly a gift from God. She explained that Zachariah could not speak until after the birth. The child she carried was also a son and when the baby was born, Zachariah spoke and said his son would be called John.

Of course, Caesar called for the census and we had to go to Bethlehem. I know this was a hard time on all who had to travel, but being heavy with child made the trip even harder. I was beginning to think we would have to stop along the way until the baby came, but we did make it to Bethlehem. The town was so full there were no rooms. Joseph finally found an innkeeper who would let us have shelter in the stable. Now how could there be no rooms, when I was to give birth to such a special child?

We had just settled into the stable, when I delivered a beautiful baby boy. Then the most unusual things began to happen. The shepherds came. They said angels had told them about the birth of a baby. A special baby. The Christ Child. They fell on their knees and said this was a blessed baby. The Savior they had been waiting for. The one who would love even the lowliest. When Jesus was eight days old, we took him to the temple and a man named Simeon took Jesus in his arms, praised God, and said his eyes had seen God’s salvation. And Anna, a prophetess, gave thanks to God and spoke about my child to all who would hear.

Joseph and I have been fine. Jesus is almost one year old now and it has been a daily wonder to see him grow and learn.

Well, that is my news. What has your year been like?

Mary, Mother of Jesus

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Now how do you top that? If you had received this letter, would you have believed it? What would you put in a letter if you were writing to Mary?

LET US PRAY

Dear Jesus, I am so thankful that you were born. To know that God loved me enough to send His Son to save me makes me want to leap with joy. What a glorious day that was when you were born. Angels proclaiming the news. Never allow the Christmas spirit to leave my heart. Christmas means ………………………………… Amen

GOD SENT A MIRACLE

I could say so many things about December. I look at December as the end of something old and the approach of something new. Yes, it does close one year and makes us prepare for the next, BUT December reminds us that one chapter in our history closed and another began. With the birth of one small baby, our lives changed. A baby sent for all – Jews and Gentiles, men and women. A baby that changed forever our relationship with God. A baby – visual proof of God’s love for us. A baby was born and one chapter closed (The Old Testament) and another began (The New Testament). God sent us a gift. It is up to us how we use it.

May you welcome God’s gift into every minute of your life.

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is the one I meant when I said, ‘A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’ I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel.”

Then John gave this testimony: “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. I would not have known him, except that the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is he who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ I have seen and I testify that this is the Son of God.”

John 1:29-34

GOD SENT A MIRACLE

God said to the angel, “You are right.
These humans of mine aren’t very bright.
I gave them a world full of all they would need
and ten simple rules you think they could heed.

Now look at the mess they’ve made down there.
To straighten it out will take more than a prayer.
They’re asking for a miracle, so I’ll send them one.
A miracle indeed ---- I’ll send them my son!

They’ll want a soldier or, most likely, a king,
but I’ll send them a baby, a wee little thing.”
“What can a baby do?” the angel did ask.
“Can a baby live up to such a great task?”

“He’ll listen and learn as he grows up with man.
That, my dear angel, is part of the plan.
Yes!” God said. “I’ll send them my son.
Through faith in Him, freedom can be won.”

God was right on that first Christmas morn,
The world had a chance when that baby was born.
So don’t be a human, who’s not very bright,
Believe in Jesus and do what is right.

QUESTION OF THE DAY

Yes, the world was perfect. Perfect until God created humans. We have messed it up, but then Jesus came for each of us. Do you know that God sent His Son to take away your sins?

LET US PRAY

Oh, thank you God, We would be lost without the redemption of Your Son. We have made a mess of things down here. It seems no matter how hard we try, things still go wrong. But it is not we, it is me. I try and try, but still mess things up. I do thank you for the gift of Jesus. The Lamb of God. My way to you. Without this gift, I would be lost. Without this gift I would be ………………………………… Amen

SLOW DOWN -- SEE THE WONDERS

When I saw the calendar page for November 23, the saying made me think. ---- “Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, is the true measure of our thanksgiving. -- W.T. Purkiser ---- I hope that today, you remember the blessing you have received and that you use those blessings wisely.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.
Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever.
Give thanks to the Lord of lords: His love endures forever.
to him who alone does great wonders, His love endures forever.
who by his understand made the heavens, His love endures forever.
who spread out the earth upon the waters, His love endures forever.
who made the great lights -- His love endures forever.
the sun to govern the day, His love endures forever.
the moon and stars to govern the night; His love endures forever.
Psalm 136:1-9

SLOW DOWN -- SEE THE WONDERS

Oh, how time flies, except for the drive home from Rochester one night. On that drive, the time was just perfect. Grandson Nathan, who was four at the time, rode with me to attend a pre-school graduation. We heard the songs and saw Joshua, a five-year-old grandson, move his tassel. At least he could find his. Some had flipped their tassel from side to side so often that it had ended up on the back of the cap. We continued the celebration with cake. Then we headed home – on the back roads.

The ride over had been fun. We talked about rivers and about corn being planted. We talked about how to behave at the church. Yes, the ride over was fun, but the ride home was one wonder after another.

Around one corner, we saw a large lake and talked about water lilies. Then we saw wild geese and their babies. Since no one was behind us, we stopped and watched. What fun to see new life. All fluffy and going in all directions with mom trying to keep up. If that was not enough excitement for one drive, we saw some horses and their colts. Again, we stopped and watched. One colt came over to the fence to check us out. Maybe we were the ones being watched. The talk here involved how the colts were fed and how each was marked differently. We moved on, but again had to stop. This time to watch the deer. They just stood at the side of the road for us to admire. The conversation here? None. I had put the window down so Nathan could see better and he informed me that we needed to be quiet so as not to scare them. Finally, we had to move on. The wonders had not ended though. The sky was on fire. The sun was setting and Nathan kept looking over his shoulder saying, “Look now grandma.”

On this journey, I learned this four year old is never quiet. This is not a new revelation and he has a three-year-old cousin that is the same way. But confined in the car, I listened to him better. What did I hear? I heard the joy of seeing something new. I heard the excitement of watching a colt. I heard the quiet of nature. I learned that time does not have to fly by.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

It is Thanksgiving. What are you thankful for? If you are reading this in the evening, did you find any wonders today? Was the sky on fire as the sun rose or set? Did you see a very bright star? Or a new colt? If you are reading this in the morning, where will you look for wonders to appear? Keep your eyes and mind open.

LET US PRAY

Dear God, I do know you have put many amazing wonders in this world for me to find. I want to see them. I want to feel the sun on my face and feel the breeze cool me. I want to wiggle my toes in the mud and watch a butterfly. Today I saw ………………………………… Amen

DO YOU REALLY MEAN IT?

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

Now a man came up to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?”

“Why do you ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments.”

“Which ones?” the man inquired.

Jesus replied, “Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother, and ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’ ”

“All these I have kept,” the young man said. “What do I still lack?”

Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”

When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.

Matthew 19:16-22

DO YOU REALLY MEAN IT?

One night our granddaughter, Kailyn, and our grandson, Matthew, were staying overnight. They had fun all afternoon, as only cousins can. They enjoyed crazy pancakes for supper, took their baths and were ready for bed. Off to bed they went. Hugs, kisses and lights out. As Bill and I sat in our easy chairs, we could hear them laughing. I would have been very disappointed if they had been quiet and gone right to sleep, but I was not prepared for them to come downstairs.

Matthew was in the lead and asked - with a straight face - "Did you mean for us to stay in bed?" "Yes," I answered. "Should we go back to bed?" "Yes," I answered again. Off they went, back to bed.

How often do we treat God this way? God gives us an answer and then we ask, "Do you really mean --
-- for me to treat all the people nice? Even the ones I disagree with?"
-- for me to give a tithe for your work?"
-- for me to sit in the pew next to the teenager with orange hair?"

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

How often do you pray and than ask God to come up with an answer you like better? When have you tried to negotiate with God?

LET US PRAY

Dear God, Am I like the rich man? Do I pray for answers and then walk away. Why am I so afraid to trust your wisdom? Why do I continue to think I know best? Show me the way. Today, Lord, let me listen to you. Let me trust you as you guide me to ………………………………… Amen

BE A RAINBOW

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

And God said, “This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life.
Genesis 9:12 - 15

BE A RAINBOW

We have worked for years, managing the farmland owned by Starr Commonwealth, a Children’s Charity in Michigan and Ohio. What started as a job became a passion. We admire and support what they do for troubled youth and the lives they have touched for 90 years. Each year they have a Founders Day that features a guest speaker. We were fortunate to hear Maya Angelou. Dr. Angelou is a fantastic speaker with a voice that draws you into the soul of what she is saying.

Dr. Angelou sang, recited poetry, but mostly encouraged us to be “rainbows.” She explained that the stars and sun and moon are great, but it’s the rainbow that breaks through the clouds. We then heard about the rainbows in her life: Her grandmother took her in when her parents divorced, an uncle taught her to learn and a teacher gave her direction. We heard why she quit speaking, for five years, and how her grandmother, again encouraged her. Rainbows are the rays of hope that come after the clouds. She then challenged us to become rainbows. Rainbows to all who have clouds in their lives.

This all got me to thinking. You can be a rainbow in someone’s life. You can also be an anchor, a harbor, a breeze, a challenge and a path.

Are you an anchor? Sometimes you are the one thing a friend or loved one can hold onto. Are you a harbor? When clouds come and someone is adrift in doubt, or in fear, or in loneliness, you can be their safe harbor.

Are you a breeze? Sometimes you just say one word, or one prayer, or even one smile, a quick, almost un-noticed gesture, like a breeze felt on a cheek, but that word, or prayer or smile is just what is needed.

Are you a challenge? Just a word, deed or insight might challenge someone to be better than they think they can be.

Are you a path? You may be the path that shows someone the way home, the way back to their family and friends or the way to God.

Be a rainbow. Be an anchor. Be a harbor. Be a breeze. Be a challenge. Be a path.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Who has been a rainbow, an anchor, a harbor, a breeze, a challenge or a path to you? Who have you helped by being their rainbow or anchor or harbor or breeze or challenge or path?

LET US PRAY

Hello God, You have sent so many people into my life. Just the right person was there to help when I was making decisions. Others gave me encouragement and challenged me to grow in my faith. Show me how to be a rainbow, an anchor, a harbor, a breeze, a challenge and a path to others. Let me always appreciate those that help me and open my eyes and heart to those I can help. Today I thank you for ………………………………… Amen

OOPS -- NOT TOO SMART

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“No one lights a lamp and puts it in a place where it will be hidden, or under a bowl. Instead he puts it on its stand, so that those who come in may see the light. Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eyes are good, your whole body also is full of light. But when they are bad, your body also is full of darkness. See to it, then, that the light within you is not darkness. Therefore, if your whole body is full of light and no part of it dark, it will be completely lighted, as when the light of a lamp shines on you.”

Luke 11:33-36

OOPS -- NOT TOO SMART

It was time to redecorate. Our old farmhouse needed a makeover. During the makeover, we had a near disaster. They were going to sand the woodwork so I wrapped boxes in trash bags. I put covers over everything. I even covered everything in the family room where they were not going to sand. I laid the lamps on the couch and covered the couch with a tarp. I covered the chair. The TV. The tables. It was all protected. They sanded and by the end of the day, there was a layer of dust everywhere. It was then time to clean up.

Bill and I started in the family room. I was cleaning the TV and Bill was getting ready to clean a filter. Then a light came on and Bill said, “Look, the lamp came on under the tarp.” I looked and went back to dusting. I had forgotten to unplug the lamp and had forgotten the lamp would come on automatically.

Now, wouldn’t you think that two, reasonably intelligent adults would think – lamp, couch, tarp, not good? No – we looked and went right on working. The next thing Bill said was, “The couch is on fire.”

The fire was quickly put out and we said a thank you prayer. But it made me realize how one small, seemingly unimportant action could have cost me so much. A lamp left on, a home could have been lost. I am not going to cover up any more lamps without unplugging them first. I want to protect our home.

When I thought about the scripture for this, I had to laugh. The Bible tells us not to cover the light.

A covered lamp was dangerous, but how much more dangerous is it to cover the light of Jesus in our lives? One word spoken in anger can leave a scar that never heals, but just a smile or the touch of a hand can give comfort. One negative comment can stop a dream, but listening, helping and guiding can motivate a person to reach their mountaintop.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

What about you? What one small, seemingly unimportant action are you going to change? What in your life, do you want to protect?

LET US PRAY

Dear Lord, Please surround and protect my family and home. Let my actions be wise and not foolish. Let me use words of praise and encouragement. Let my hands be soft as they touch others. Let me realize each word I say and each deed I do reflects you. Let your light shine through me so that ………………………………… Amen

THANK YOU

TODAY'S SCRIPTURE

Then Moses said to the Israelites, “See, the Lord has chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and he has filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts -- to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood and to engage in all kinds of artistic craftsmanship. And he has given both him and Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, the ability to teach others. He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as craftsmen, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and weavers -- all of them master craftsmen and designers.

Exodus 35:30 - 35

THANK YOU

We casually thank family and friends or someone at work. But have you ever made a thank you list for the "others,” the ones we just let slip by? Those who are filled with the Spirit and have skills, abilities and knowledge to do special tasks that make our lives better, these people need our thanks as well.

Thank you -- to the mail carrier and paper carrier. They deliver on days when they would rather stay home where it is dry, warm, or cool. Out they come to bring us greetings, papers and bills. Well, maybe they could leave the bills somewhere else.

Thank you -- to the dentist. Now that is a hard one because most people hate to go to the dentist. Can you imagine spending your whole day looking into mouths? But, we sure are glad the dentist went to school to learn how to fill teeth and stop pain? Besides, wouldn't our smiles look different without teeth?

Thank you -- to the people who pick up our trash. Now there are people who know how to make the world a better place. Think about it. Picture your little corner of the world with no trash pickup.

Thank you -- to the person who had the imagination and knowledge to create cameras and film. What would our visual world be like without pictures of those we hold dear? Or pictures of the Rocky Mountains? Or of a sunset? Or of a bird taking flight? The mind’s eye can only remember so long and now we can see family we never met.

Thank you -- for ministers. We pray for our families. Our friends. Our church congregation. Even strangers. Do we remember our ministers? They guide us. They pray with us. They welcome us into the world and they help those left behind understand death. Add your minister to your prayer list.

QUESTION OF THE DAY

Look around. For whom are you thankful?

LET US PRAY

Thank you Lord, Thank you that we do not all have the same skills and abilities. Thank you for the people who help me every day because of their job. Those that make my world neater by helping keep the environment clean. Those who have studied to help take care of my body. Those that come to my door every day with mail. And those that guide my spirit. And thank you for those that ………………………………… Amen

IT IS NOT ALL GOOD

Greetings,

This past week, in Sunday School, we talked about Intercessory Prayer. Yes, we can pray directly to God. He hears us, but sometimes we need people to pray for us. We discussed how the Israelites had Samuel pray for them. They gave up their idols and turned back to God. They needed someone to pray on their behalf. The idols came between the Israelites and God and even today, we have “things” that can come between God and us.

I have added two messages. They need to be together. They are not easy to read. The subject is child abuse.

These articles lead back to Intercessory Prayer -- After you read these and after you have thought about this, say a prayer. Pray for our children. Pray that they be kept safe. Pray for parents and the other adults. Pray that they put children above their anger. Above their job. Pray that each adult realizes that a child is a gift. A very special gift. A gift to be nurtured and loved and kept safe. Pray that we can turn to God when we question why this would happen. Pray that we turn TO God and that we do not allow the actions of others to turn us away from God.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy -- think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me -- put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

Philippians 4:6-9

IT IS NOT ALL GOOD --

I used to read the newspaper from front page to back. I could tell you what was going on around the world and around our town. I read the advice columns and I read the funnies. I read the obituaries and the births. I looked to see who won the ball game. I even watched the evening news - local and national.

Then one day it all changed. I do not believe in being an ostrich, burying my head in the sand, but I can only take so much. How can we hurt our children?

Adults fight over boundaries. They fight over politics. They fight over religion. They settle their disagreements with laws, with words and with guns. BUT how can we hurt our children?

I read in the paper of two fathers who went mushroom hunting and left their children in the car. It was a very hot day and those children died.

I read in the paper of the mother who watched as her child was beaten. She was more afraid, of being without a man in her life, than of protecting her baby.

I read in the paper of a surgeon who was to drop her baby off at daycare. But she got to thinking about the operations she had that day. She thought about her patients. She forgot about her baby in the back seat. She forgot until it was too late.

I heard on the news of a child being dropped out of a window. Of a child locked in a closet. Of children not fed. Of children being molested. Of children being beaten. Of children watching as their mother is beaten. Of children being shot in schools. Of a four-week-old baby being used as a club in a fight between a mother and father.

I heard of children who were an inconvenience to their parents. It was too much trouble to play with them, to read to them or to listen to them. So they put them in front of a television. They set no limits to the child's access to video games and the internet. They allowed them to listen to songs with cruel lyrics. They did all of this just because it was easier than giving them one thing -- their time. Would they say they loved their children? Yes. They just did not want to give up going to the gym, going to the parties, watching the ball game and all of the other things more important than their children.

I am sure some of the people who hurt children are sorry afterwards, but afterwards is too late.

I quit reading the paper from front to back. I quit listening to all of the news. I can only cope with so much.

There are so many agencies to help our youth, but that is only a start. We must make our children a priority. We must stop allowing them to be beaten. We must stop allowing them to go hungry. We must stop allowing them to be locked in dark closets. We must love our children enough to protect them.

I can pray that the heart of the people who abuse our children will be touched and changed. I can pray for the children. I can pray they have an angel beside them.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Yes, I know this was not an easy piece to read today. How do we stop the cycle of abuse? How do we get all parents to give their children love and time? How can this problem be solved? I know we can vote for people who make children a priority. What else can we do? What can you do in your church? In your community? Could you be a foster parent? Could you help counsel? Could you be a child advocate in the court system?

Do you feel overwhelmed with the care of your children? Where can you get help? The national number for Child Abuse Hotline is 1-800-422-4453.

How do you find peace? (Read today’s scripture again AND read the next message.)

LET US PRAY

Dear God, It is hard when I hear of children being abused. Beaten. Not loved. Ignored. It is hard because I feel helpless. Today, Lord, send special angels to protect your little children. Show me where I can help. Show me how I can make a difference. I ask that you send special help to ………………………………… Amen
Please continue reading


THE CHILDREN SHALL TEACH US

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them.

Isaiah 11:6

At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.
Luke 10:21

THE CHILDREN SHALL TEACH US

I wrote, “It’s Not All Good” many months before the following Mary’s Moment. This moment needs to be added here. This happened the summer before our grandson, Matthew, was in the first grade. The children shall teach us!

The other day Bill and I took Matthew to see the old tractors and engines at the Winamac Power Show. It was fun and although Matthew soon tired of the old tractors, he did enjoy the thrashing exhibit and seeing the steam engines. Matthew listened as we told him how corn was shelled before we had combines and how boards were cut with the blades powered by the steam engines. He listened and he learned. Yes, we had a good time, but then anytime with grandchildren is valuable time.

We then had lunch and, as we sat there, Matthew asked if we had heard about the man who killed his children. We told him we had and did not understand how any father could kill his own children. That is what we said, but we were thinking about what should happen to that man. I admit they were not good thoughts.

Matthew sat there and then he taught us a lesson. He looked up and very quietly said, “He needs to ask for God’s forgiveness.”

Jesus said the children would lead us. Jesus was right again.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

How do we understand when this happens? How do we forgive?

LET US PRAY

Dear Heavenly Father, I again ask that you protect your little children. I also ask that you give me understanding. And a forgiving heart. I ask that you give comfort to families where children are victims of violence and abuse. Help them cope and face tomorrow. Help me, Lord, as I try to understand. Help me………………………………… Amen

MARY DOESN’T KNOW HER PLACE

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”
Luke 10:38-42

MARY DOESN’T KNOW HER PLACE

I have always wondered why my parents named me Mary. There is no Mary on my genealogy chart or any old family friend named Mary. When I was young, I mistakenly told someone I did not like my name and, with eyebrows raised and a superior attitude, they said, “How could anyone not like the name of Jesus’ mother?” Being properly chastised, I never told anyone that again.

One Sunday, I finally figured it out. The pastor talked about Mary sitting at Jesus’ feet instead of being in the kitchen where she belonged. Others wondered at Mary not knowing her place. Now I know why I was named Mary. I have never known my place either.

I can do the dishes and I can go to the barn to help with the birth of a calf. (Women of my mother’s era were not allowed in the barn during birthing. Figure that one out.) I can work on the computer and I can express my opinion at the local coffee shop. I can read stories to the grandchildren and I can stand up to attitudes that want women back in the kitchen. BUT these are all physical places. We should all be more like Mary, because she was not concerned about her physical place. Mary found her place at the feet of Jesus.

Guess Mary is not such a bad name after all.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Do you know where you belong? If not, what can you do to get headed in the right direction? Are you afraid to do something new because you have to move out of your comfort zone?

LET US PRAY

Dear Lord, Let me always sit at your feet. I know I have work to do, but do not let me ever be so busy that I forget to take time to listen and learn. Let me find my place. Sometimes I wander and go from here to there. Sometimes I let other people tell me where I belong. Give me strength to ………………………………… Amen

AT THE TOP OF THE FAMILY TREE

TODAY’S SCRIPTURES

A record of the genealogy of Jesus Christ the son of David, the son of Abraham.
Matthew 1:1

Thus there were fourteen generations in all from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the exile to Babylon, and fourteen from the exile to the Christ.
Matthew 1:17

Now Jesus himself was about thirty years old when he began his ministry. He was the son, so it was thought, of Joseph,
Luke 3:23

. . . . . . the son of Enosh, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the son of God.
Luke 3:38


AT THE TOP OF THE FAMILY TREE

This year seems to be moving along at a tremendous pace. I do not know what the remainder of 2006 will hold. I remember that 2004 also went fast and was filled with some wonderful blessings. We added a grandson and marveled as we traveled to new places on God’s earth. We worked hard and had a little time for rest. We celebrated birthdays and anniversaries. We said goodbye to family and friends. Saying goodbye is sometimes hard and sometimes a blessing.

Aunt Grace and I had a great visit in June, that year. She had just turned 90 and told me stories I had never heard. People think I talk a lot. For two hours, I could not get a word in edgewise. (I am not exaggerating.) What a time we had. We laughed. And, after I left, I cried because I knew we would never have a time like that again. Laughter and tears. What a day.

In December 2004, I said goodbye to Grace, the last aunt on my mother’s side. The best thing I learned at Aunt Grace’s funeral was that she had accepted God. That made me smile. Then reality set in. My cousin, sister and I looked at each other. The “cousins” were now the top branch on my mother’s family tree. That is daunting. No one to look up to. No one to turn to. No one – Oh yes, just as when I was a lower branch I still have someone. God!

To the laughter and tears of life, add faith and it does not matter which branch of the tree you are. You are always an important branch on God’s tree and, with God as the root, your branch will always be strong.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Who looks to you for help and guidance? Who do you turn to? God? Your church? Your friends?

LET US PRAY

Dear Creator, You created the family tree. Each branch is filled with your children. Some have turned to you and, regretfully, some have turned away. Let me not fail as I fit into the lineage of a God fearing people. I know I can always turn to you and your word for guidance. I will listen with an open mind and a loving spirit to you and your words. If others turn to me, give me the wisdom I need to help them. Do not let me judge others when they seek guidance, but let me help. When I need help, I know I can turn to .………………………………… Amen