THE GIFTS OF GOD

One morning I sat in the courtyard, at our church. What a wonderful, peaceful place for prayer, surrounded by flowers, a blue sky and the cross towering over the church. Surrounded by gifts from God! As I sat in the courtyard, I pictured the altar stacked high with packages. Each wrapped perfectly. Tied with colorful bows. All sizes. All shapes. And never ending. No matter how many received a gift, the altar was never bare. The pile of gifts never got smaller. There were always gifts waiting to be taken.

I wondered how God feels when his children come to take a gift. Is he happy that we want his peace? Is he thrilled when we take faith? Hope? Charity?

We can make a long list: Peace. Patience. Grace. Mercy. Salvation. Trust. Courage. Healing. Faithfulness. Self - Control. That list could go on and on. And each of us would put different gifts on the list. Gifts we would like and gifts we have received.

As I sat there, a simple idea began to form for the next time I spoke at church. Everyone needs to know about God's gifts. I wanted to tell that sometimes the gift, when opened, may say yes. But it also may say no. All the "normal" things we call gifts from God popped into my mind, but God had another idea. God wants you to know about all his gifts.

Last Sunday I delivered the message and, over the next three weeks will tell about some of the not-so-obvious gifts.

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: John 4:6-14

Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well.

It was about the sixth hours. When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, "Will you give me a drink?" (His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.)

The Samaritan woman said to him, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink? (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)

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."

Living Water - Oh, my friends, that is only the beginning of the gifts God has for us.

TRIALS: God, may I put that one back. I don't want trials. Life is so complicated now. Why have you given me trials? - May I put this one back? I don't want trials.

As much as we hate trials, they do come and we learn from them. We learn to give care to a loved one, showing tenderness and compassion. We learn to allow others to help us. And we all learn when we stand with our family and friends, helping them through their trials.

Consider it pure joy, my brothers whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. James 1:2

GENTLENESS: Now that is more like it. Gentleness is a great gift.

What a blessing. What a gift when God gives us gentle words which we can use to comfort others. Or a gentle touch when caring for a loved one. What a gift when God's gentleness wraps around us.

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Ephesians 4:2

HIDING PLACE: That is a strange gift. Or is it?

Have you ever just felt like the world was too much? Like you just needed to get away? Away to a place that was safe? Away, alone, just for a bit? Have you ever wanted to get away to a place where you could take a deep breath, close your eyes and forget your troubles?

You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. Psalm 32:7

Hiding place is not a strange gift after all.

Enough for today. Next week will be soon enough to find out about other gifts God has prepared for you.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

How would you feel if you went to the altar, selected a gift, opened it and found trials? Would you think that was a gift you wanted to keep? Would you want to keep gentleness? Have you ever wanted a hiding place?

LET US PRAY (Please use this as a beginning of your prayer. Finish in your own words, words from your heart.)

To the giver of gifts, Thank you for each gift I receive. For those, like trials, that I do not appreciate until long after the trial is over and for those that I willingly accept, like gentleness. Thank you for being there when I need a hiding place. God, please open my heart and my eyes so, unlike the woman at the well, I will see your gifts. Amen

HOW COULD I FORGET THAT?

Mondays, during the summer, I spend with four of our grandsons. Sometimes we play board games. Sometimes we bake. We usually play wii. Sometimes we watch a movie. And sometimes we do a craft.

This last Monday the boys wanted to make garden stones like we did last summer. We did it once so now it is a tradition. A summer ritual.

I bought more quick crete and colored stones. When I checked my supplies, a new mixing bowl, strong spoon and plastic trays were added to the list. Everything we needed was now on hand and ready to be loaded into the car.

To make the process less messy, I even pre-measured the crete for each stone and bagged it separately. I was thinking ahead!

Into the car went the crete, the bowl, the spoon, the trays and all the goodies to decorate with.

The boys were excited when I arrived and out of the car came everything. The crete, the bowl, the spoon and all the goodies to decorate with. Did you notice that the trays did not come out of the car? They were no place to be found.

I looked three times! I just knew I had put them in the car.

Four very sweet grandsons said we could do them next week. IF I DIDN'T FORGET AGAIN.

We are human. We will forget things. God, on the other hand, will never forget us!!

My favorite Psalm is 139 and I read it often.

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: PSALM 139

O Lord, you have searched me, you know me, you perceive my thoughts, you discern my going out and my lying down, you are familiar with all my ways, you know my tongue completely, you are behind and before me and you have laid your hand upon me. parts of 1-6

Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. 7-10

WOW!! We forget little things. We forget big things. Some days we forget God. And sometimes those days stretch into weeks and years. But God never forgets us. He always has us held fast in His right hand.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Have you forgotten anything this week? How did it make you feel? Mad at yourself? Frustrated?

How does it make you feel to know that God never forgets you?

(In case you are wondering about the trays, I found them when I got home. When I picked up the supplies I was not taking with me, I put the trays in the wrong pile. My bad.)

LET US PRAY (Please use this as a beginning of your prayer. Finish in your own words, words from your heart.)

O Lord, Sometimes I make plans and they just don't turn out right because I forgot one small item. Thank you for not forgetting even the smallest detail of the plan you have for me. Sometimes I forget someone's name. Thank you for not forgetting my name. Sometimes I forget where I put something. Thank you for always knowing where I am. That means I am never alone. Amen

45 YEARS, 364 DAYS AND COUNTING

Thinking back to June 3, 1965 I remember not being nervous at all. In my mind I picture a very young, 18 year old girl preparing for a very big day: June 4, 1965: MY WEDDING DAY!

For just a moment, close your eyes, take a deep breath and picture a wedding. Okay. Got it? Did you picture a wedding gown with a long veil? Flowers and candles? A packed church? If you did, you are so wrong!

We were married on a Friday evening, in a small Methodist Church with only our families present. How much time did I take off work for our wedding? Friday and Monday! That is what Bill and I both wanted and I have never regretted not having a big, traditional wedding.

Friday, June 4, 1965 was a busy day. I actually had my hair done! We picked up the flowers. And we - nope that was it. Oh, guess the 4th wasn't that busy. I'm not sure what Bill did to prepare. After the wedding, we were going back to his mother's to have cake and punch, so I imagine he helped her get the house ready and probably picked up the cake.

My dad walked me down the aisle and, as we were getting ready to take that first step, he said, "If you want to change your mind, I'll take you out the door instead." No way!! Down the aisle we went.

Our service was very short. Our minister, Rev. Sam Boyle, read the proper words, pronounced us Mr. and Mrs. and sent us down the aisle.

Just so you can check out the styles and I can stop, look and remember here are pictures.

My parents

Bill's mother, Uncle George and Aunt Nelle

Maid of Honor, my sister Jean, and Best Man, Jim

Yes, this is the complete wedding party.

Today's blog does not have a deep message. There are no questions for you to ponder. I think I just wanted you to share in our anniversary. I want you to know God's blessings can begin on a Friday evening in a small quiet church.

One young girl walking toward one young man,

standing before an altar and

saying, "I do."

I am thankful I walked down the aisle and not out the door. Bill is the very best gift God has ever given me. We began our lives walking side by side and that is how we have traveled the path that began June 4, 1965.

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: GENESIS 2: parts of 20-24

But for Adam no suitable helper was found. Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man. For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.

My very gracious God, Thank you for my Bill. Amen

TIME TO BUILD AN ARK

As I look at cloudy skies and a forecast for more rain, I thought about Noah. Today I am repeating a blog from April 4, 2008.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: GENESIS 6:22

Noah did everything just as God commanded him.

TIME TO BUILD AN ARK

In this part of Indiana, we are having our share of rain. We now have water standing on water. And it is raining again. I wonder if it is time to build another ark.

All of this rain got me to thinking about Noah – Now things were not going too great on earth. Wickedness. Evil. All sorts of bad stuff. So God was ready to wipe out everything.

Genesis 6:7-8 says, “So the Lord said, ‘I will wipe out mankind, whom I have created, from the face of the earth – men and animals, and creatures that move along the ground, and birds of the air – for I am grieved that I have made them.’ But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.”

“Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.” What about in the eyes of others? Can you hear it? I imagine it went something like this --

Mrs. Noah probably said, “You’re going to build what?”

And I am sure he heard from his neighbors. “Noah, what are you doing? If you keep this up, the property values will go down.”

Noah’s son Ham was in for some teasing also. “Ham, your daddy doesn’t have both oars in the water.” And Ham would have come back with, under his breath of course, “Maybe not now, but you wait and see who floats and who doesn’t.”

Then there was the trip to the local hardware. When Noah told the owner what he wanted, the owner would have wondered if he heard the order correctly – “You want how much cypress wood? You need how much pitch? I will have to order that in." Rubbing his hands together and, with a wicked grin, he most likely asked, "Will you be paying now or later?”

Think of the strength of character Noah needed to stand up to the looks. To the questions. To the laughing. And yet verse 22 tells us, “Noah did everything just as God commanded him.”

Noah had courage. He listened to God and had the courage to do just what God commanded. We can learn from Noah. We can have courage.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

In a Bible Study, the author pointed out that when Noah shut the door, he would have been leaving family, friends and neighbors to drown. They would have been pounding on the boat. They would have been calling to Noah. Think of the courage it took to "do as God commanded."

Has God ever asked you to do something that made you choose His will over family, friends or neighbors? Have you ever taken a stand and then been laughed at or criticized? Have you ever taken a stand and then wished you had not, because the pressure was so great? Have you ever just walked away and then felt ashamed that you were not strong enough? (Remember, God will never ask us to do more than we are capable of doing. And He will give us the strength we need. We just have to trust Him.)

Please use this as a beginning of your prayer. Finish in your own words, words from your heart.

LET US PRAY

Dear Glorious God, I am so thankful that you found Noah worthy. And that he listened to your commands. Let me learn from Noah. Let me first listen and find my strength in you. Then let me do everything you command. I do thank you for being patient with me when I am weak. When I do not listen. I ask for courage when I feel you leading me. …… Amen

OFF TO THE OTHER SHORE

TODAYS SCRIPTURES: MARK

3:9 Because of the crowd he told his disciples to have a small boat ready for him to keep the people from crowding him.

4:36 Leaving the crowd behind

5:21 When Jesus had again crossed over by boat to the other side of the lake a large crowd gathered around him while he was by the lake.

6:32 So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.

6:46 After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray

OFF TO THE OTHER SHORE

These scriptures came to mind and I wondered why Jesus kept taking off for the other shore. The other side of the lake. Why would he want to leave the crowd behind? Didn't he want the people around him? Then I pictured the people getting closer and closer. All wanting to hear exactly what he was saying. Some wanting to touch him so they would be healed. Can you picture him, at the edge of the water, with the crowd pushing and pushing? They would take a step forward and Jesus would take a step back. Then into the boat he would go. Off to the other side. Off to another shore.

The only problem with that is the people on the other side of the lake were waiting for him. What was he to do?

That is when the light bulb went off and I realized that often I feel that way. Crowded and pushed. Too much work. Too many other things I want to do. Too many books waiting to be read. Too much dust waiting to be scattered to another landing spot and laundry to do. Too many people needing my time and energy.

Have you ever felt that way? Pushed? Crowded? Surrounded? Where to go? Where to go?

Well, get in the boat with Jesus. He is right there waiting to give you a ride to the other side. Yes, the bills are there too. And the job. And all the people and things that demand your time and energy. But you will be ready to face them because you have rested your body and mainly your Spirit as you rode in the boat with Jesus. Just that short ride gives you the strength to go on!

While I was pondering this, I also thought about Jesus, those crowds and his solitary time.

"Jesus," I would ask, "did you ever get bruised or scratched as people crowded and pushed just to touch you? You were human, did you ever get scared when they crowded you to the edge of the water?"

"Jesus," I would ask, "how did you feel when you went away to a solitary place? Did your body sigh with relief and relaxation? And what did you and your Father talk about?"

I think Jesus might have said something like this: "Hi Father. This has been some day. I need rest so thank you for the shade of this tree and the breeze. Did you see the crowd? I pray they heard with their hearts. I pray they believe tomorrow. What? Yes the disciples are coming along. They're out on the boat and I'll go there shortly. I think I'll just walk out. Yes. That will give them a shock, but I like to shake them up. So how far do you suppose Peter will walk? He will do okay until he takes his eyes off of me. Then down he'll go. How long will it take them to learn? Really? That long. Better go. I don't know what I would do if I couldn't get away for our talks. Later. I mean, Amen."

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Do you ever feel pushed? Crowded? Surrounded? Where do you go when you feel like this?

LET US PRAY (Please use this as a beginning of your prayer. Finish in your own words, words from your heart.)

O Lord, you do not intend for me to always feel pushed. Crowded. Surrounded by pressure. Send a boat so I can spend time with you and receive comfort and renewal for my body and soul. Amen

PRAYER - A NEED? A PRIVILEGE? A DUTY?

TODAYS SCRIPTURES:

Seth also had a son, and he named him Enosh. At that time men began to call on the name of the Lord. Genesis 4:26

But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed. Luke 5:16

PRAYER - A NEED? A PRIVILEGE? A DUTY?

The other day I heard an interesting message on prayer and it got me to thinking: Is prayer a need? Is prayer a privilege? Is prayer a duty?

Do we need to pray? The Bible says God knows what is in our hearts and he knows what we require before we even tell him. So, why pray if it is not essential for God to understand our would likes and our must haves? The question, "Do we need to pray?" is answered by no and yes.

Does God need us to pray so he will know what we require? No. Do we need to pray? Yes! We need to know that God is quite clear on what we would like and what we must have! Just kidding! We need to pray so the Spirit himself will intercede when we just do not have the words or the energy to express our true needs. And God, who searches our hearts, knows the mind of the Spirit and they work together in the harmony of God's will. (Based on Romans 8:26-27) Prayer is a need!

Is prayer a privilege? This question can also be answered yes and no. If you consider a privilege something that only a few of the elite are entitled to, then the answer is no. But if you consider a privilege something that is a benefit, an opportunity, an honor or a pleasure, then the answer is yes! What other faith is so great as to have their gods near them the way the Lord our God is near us whenever we pray to him? (Based on Deuteronomy 4:7) Prayer is a privilege!

Is prayer a duty? This question has only one answer: YES! Prayer is something we have to do. It is a responsibility. An obligation. Why?

Prayer is a duty because Jesus prayed and we, who with uncovered faces reflect the Lord's glory, are constantly being changed into his likeness. (Based on 2 Corinthians 3:18) It is our duty to live in such a way as we reflect the likeness of Jesus. Jesus prayed. We must pray. Prayer is a duty!

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY:

Do you have trouble praying? Trouble finding the right words? Use your own words or find scripture passages that you really like and make them personal. Use I, me and my. But remember, no matter how you say it, God loves to hear you pray. Today, with no help from me, say your own prayer. God is listening!!! He will hear you!!!

CHANGE OF IDENTITY

As I look back, I realize my identity has changed over the years. I have gone from a young thing to a getting-closer-to-65. My identity has gone from daughter, to wife, to mother, to grandma. I have been a resident of Indiana, a resident of Michigan and back to a resident of Indiana. I have been a student, a car hop and an accountant's secretary. I am still my husband's right hand in our office and I am an auction cashier.

My identity is getting ready to change. As I write this, I am still an auction cashier. That, after 32+ years, will change May 21 when I work my last auction. This was not an easy decision to make. I have met some extremely wonderful people and, yes, a few that tested my patience and caused my temper to flare. I have enjoyed the challenge of the auction and, yes, suffered frustration when we would occasionally not balance. I have traveled to work auctions all over Indiana and into Michigan and Ohio. There are people I will miss. I will miss those that I have worked beside for all of these years, but it is time.

Just so you do not think cashiering is a piece of cake, I want you to know that I will not miss working out of very breezy barns and freezing my backside and I will not miss 90 degree summer days when there is no breeze and the sweat is dripping down the back of my neck. I will not miss driving in fog, snow, rain or sleet. I will not miss needing to have a nature break and there being a line at the port-a-pot. I will not miss the port-a-pot!!!!!!!

The bottom line is that by late afternoon, on May 21, my life will change. Again!

But our lives change from moment to moment. No two days are the same and not one of us is exactly like we were yesterday. We change with the activities in our own lives and we change as we interact with family, friends and strangers. We change as the world changes. Everyone's identity changes. Oh, wait!

TODAYS SCRIPTURES

Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations. The Lord is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made. Psalm 145:13

I the Lord do not change. Malachi 3:6

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8

"I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty." Revelation 1:8

"I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End." Revelation 22:13

CHANGE OF IDENTITY

My identity will continue to change. Your identity will change. The only thing we can be sure of is that God - the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit - never changes. God is the Beginning and God will be the End. God is the Alpha and the Omega.

LET US PRAY (I have put in things that touch each of us at one time or another, but use this only as a guide. Use the changes in your life to make it personal.)

What do I do Lord? I think I have it all figured out. Life seems to be going good and then everything changes. There are disagreements within my family and friends just seem to disappear when I need them. Things pop up at work I hadn't expected and then I am flustered and on edge. Supper doesn't get done on time and the washer springs a leak. Is there ever a normal day? Why do things continually change? How do I survive in an ever changing life?

How do I survive? I turn to You. Thank you for not changing. Thank you for being the same God from morning to morning. Thank you for being with me in all of my yesterdays. Thank you for being with me today and I know you will be in my tomorrow. When everything around me changes, I know I can turn to you. When everything around me changes, I know you will always be faithful. Amen

MY IDENTITY

When we are making a quick trip to the store or for coffee, I do not always take my driver's license: proof of my identity. If we were to be in an accident, I would think, "This is a small town. Someone will know me." But, when we go out of town, I always take my ID with me. And, if someone is riding with me, I insist they have theirs.

In case of an emergency, what I carry, in my purse, would tell people a lot about me. They could quickly learn my name, address and age. They might question my weight which hasn't been up-pounded for a few weight gains and my hair color changes each time Clairol messes with their formula for dark blonde. Digging further, my home phone number is on my cell phone. My health and auto insurance cards are behind my license. I usually carry only one credit card, but my fabric purchase card is almost full so they will know I like to sew.

If they did a bit deeper, they will know I am old school and still carry enough cash to buy a cup of coffee without using a charge card. It will be quickly revealed that I chew gum and use Tylenol. And that my calendar has some really busy days and some where I can relax. From my key chain, they will learn I shop at CVS, Hallmark and Alco and that my library card number begins with a 2.

I usually carry my camera because I love to take pictures, but they won't find many pictures. There is one of Bill and me taken a few years ago at church and a few school pictures of the grandkids.

One thing I hope they find is a picture I have carried since grade school. Why do I want them to find this picture?

Because if I am ever rushed to the emergency room, I want them to be shouting, "She is a Christian. We found Jesus in her purse."

TODAYS SCRIPTURES:

As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he was the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased." Matthew 3:16-17

As you can see, the picture is a bit worn.

"But what about you?" Jesus asked. "Who do you say I am?" Peter answered, "You are the Christ." Mark 8:29

The Gideons gave these out, I think, when I was in the fourth grade.

QUESTION OF THE DAY

What would your purse or wallet say about you?

LET US PRAY: Today, say your own prayer. Talk to Jesus. Tell him about yourself. Yes, he knows everything about you, but He does so enjoy listening to you. Then answer the question: Who do you say I am? Have a heart to heart about how you would answer that question. Then ask Him to protect you and be always with you as you continue learning about yourself and about becoming an even stronger Christian.

WHAT DO YOU HEAR?

This past week I spoke for Chapel, at a local retirement community. I asked them to hear the scriptures. Not just read them, but to imagine the surroundings and how it would have sounded. Today I ask you to do the same thing and I am asking you to look up the scriptures. Yes, this is a bit longer than usual, but remember, you are reading the reason for the Christmas story.

Please read the scriptures for each section.

Luke 22:7 --- The Last Supper: When I think about the sounds of the day of the Last Supper, I picture Peter and John walking down a very busy street. Noisy with chatter. Merchants selling wares needed for Passover. What do you think they talked about while they prepared the room? Can you hear how quiet the room would have become when the preparations were over?

Can you hear Jesus and the disciples coming up the stairs? Do you hear the door open?

Can you hear the water being poured into the basin? Can you hear Peter telling Jesus not to wash his feet? Can you imagine the quiet as Jesus continues to go from disciple to disciple? Can you hear the cup being passed? Can you hear the bread being broken?

Jesus made many startling and troubling remarks that night. Can you hear the whispers, as the disciples tried to figure out what Jesus was talking about.

Can you hear the door shut as Judas leaves? Can you hear the quiet return as Jesus and the disciples left? What sounds do you hear in the Upper Room?

Luke 22:39-46 --- In the Garden: "Father" - What do you hear in his voice when he prays? Pain? Hope? Pleading? Obedience! What sound would an angel make? What sound would an angel make bringing the love of the Father to strengthen the Son? Do you hear his sweat fall to the ground? Do you hear someone snoring in the distance? Do you hear the footsteps getting louder and louder? Do you hear the confusion in the voice of the disciples? Do you hear the disappointment for a lost soul, as Jesus tells Judas to carry out his task?

Matthew 27:63-67 --- The Trial, the Courtyard and the Crucifixion: Sometimes we visualize what we have seen in movies and we hear what the director feels is important. What would you hear at the trial? What would you hear in the courtyard? Would you hear the disciples asking themselves what they could do? Can you hear the anguish in the voice of the women? Can you hear the crowd? Can you hear the crown being made? The whip cutting through the air? Can you hear - Oh, these are sounds we do not want to hear. I do not want to hear the cross being drug down the street. I do not want to hear the hammer hit the nail. I do not want to hear -- Oh, this is where I would rather just read the words and not hear or see.

Luke 23:46 --- The Cross: Words are bad enough, but the sounds. The vision of this is too hard. But it takes all of our senses to make this real. We must hear. We must feel. The sounds at the cross are the hardest to hear. Can you hear Jesus being called names? Being made fun of? Do you hear the weeping? Do you hear Jesus as he calls out to his father? Do you hear Jesus as he -- As he says, Father, forgive them --

Matthew 28:1-2, 5-6, 18 --- The Empty Tomb and the Ascension: Can you hear the sounds of footsteps as the women walked to the tomb? Do you suppose they talked? Or were they quiet? Can you hear them go (intake of breathe) as they saw the open tomb? What did the voice of the angel sound like? Gentle? Full of promise? I think it sounded like - hope! Can you hear the difference in their footsteps as they leave? Coming their steps would be sad. Heavy. Sorrowful. Now their steps were light! Joyful!

Hearing the sounds of the courtyard and the cross were so hard, but hearing the sounds of the empty tomb is like hearing the most beautiful -- The most beautiful sound. Sweet to the ears. Comfort for the soul. A melody that can only be played on an angel's harp.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Can you imagine being there when Jesus spoke for the last time? Read the Gospels and imagine.

And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age. How would that have sounded?

Jesus ascended! Listen!

Can you hear the joyful sound in heaven?

LET US PRAY (Please use this as a beginning of your prayer. Finish in your own words, words from your heart.)

Dear Heavenly Father, As I read and study Your word, let those words touch my whole being. Let me use my ears to hear the activity and emotions that surround Your word. And, in that hearing, let my understanding be greatly increased.

Amen

THROUGH THE VALLEY

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: PSALM 23:4

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me; they rod and thy staff they comfort me.

THROUGH THE VALLEY

The other day I was reading a book and the character pointed out that they were walking through the valley of the shadow of death. That darn ole 2 X 4 hit me and I realized it said through. It didn't say: I stay in the valley. It said: THROUGH. Why had I never thought of this before? I have read this Psalm many times and just never focused on this one word.

I have a friend who is walking a valley right now. And it is a valley of death. But it is not a physical death. It is the death of a marriage and the death of a dream. I called her and told her, "YOU ARE GOING THROUGH. YOU ARE NOT GOING TO STAY!"

This next week we begin to celebrate Easter. The problem is that before we can celebrate Easter, we must go through the valley of shadow of death. We must go through the valley of the Cross. But go through. Go through, just like Jesus did.

Jesus did not stay in the valley. Jesus did not stay in the tomb. Jesus went through death. Jesus went through the tomb. Jesus went through the valley to go to the Father.

QUESTION OF THE DAY

Are you in a valley right now?

LET US PRAY (Please use this as a beginning of your prayer. Finish in your own words, words from your heart.)

Dear Father, Thank you that I am only meant to go through valleys and not meant to stay in them. Because you are with me, I do not have to be afraid or alone. Your rod of authority and staff of support reassure me that I will safely travel through all of the valleys in my life. Amen

AND JESUS SAID

I gave our Sunday School class an assignment. Giving an assignment made me feel like a "real" teacher. The assignment was to write a personal statement of faith that expresses what you believe to be the twelve most important things about Jesus Christ. Or list what you believe to be the ten most important statements Jesus made.

I searched the scriptures and having a Bible with the words of Jesus in red really helped. I quit trying to get a list of 10. I cut my list down to 12 but refuse to delete any more!

Here are my 12 and why I chose them.

A question I need to be able to answer:

But what about you? Who do you say I am?   Luke 9:20

A question of my faith:

Do you believe that I am able to do this?   Matthew 9:28

Who I am to worship and serve:

It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.'   Luke 4:8

When I am tired:

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, for 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.   Matthew 11:28-30

When I feel like I cannot do life:

My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will.   Matthew 26:39

How I am to love:

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hand on these two commandments.   Matthew 22:37-40

Who I am to help:

The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.   Matthew 25:40

A warning:

I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.   Luke 12:4-5

Be alert:

No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come.   Mark 13:32-33

What I am to do and Jesus' assurance:

All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.   Matthew 28:18-20

Where I will go:

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

How I get there:

I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.   John 14:6

QUESTION OF THE DAY

What are favorite scriptures?

LET US PRAY

Today, think about your favorite scriptures and use them as your prayer.

APRIL FOOL'S DAY

GUESS THE APRIL FOOL'S IS ON ME. FOR SOME REASON MY BLOG DID NOT POST. THANKS TO A FRIEND WHO MISSED IT.

Now who would come up with a day called April Fool's Day? And why?

Who and why? No one really knows but in 1582, in France, people were a bit confused. Or so it seems to me. They celebrated the New Year from March 25 to April 1. Then Charles IX introduced a new calendar that began with January. Not having the internet or text messaging, it took the news a bit of time to travel and some people did not take the news in stride. They did not want to change. They wanted to keep the old calendar.

What were the people called who refused to change? These backward folk were labeled "fools" and they were teased for continuing to celebrate the beginning of the year on April 1. A new tradition was born.

April Fool's Day is just one of those nonsensical days. A day where kids try to trick their parents with the same jokes that their parents used. (Hey, your shoe is untied.) Times on clocks are changed to confuse people. Sugar is put in place of salt and money is glued to the sidewalk. And kids around the world - kids of all ages - smile when they yell, "Got ya. April Fools!"

TODAYS SCRIPTURES:

(Jesus speaking) "But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash." Matthew 7:26-27

Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. Ephesians 5:17

APRIL FOOL'S DAY

This day came into being because, as people heard of the new calendar, they did not want to change. People have heard about God at different times. Some heard early in their lives and some did not hear until they were up in years. Some believed immediately. Some did not. Some have not. Some will not believe because they do not want to change.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

When did you first hear about God? Did you believe right away? Did you have trouble because you did not want to change? (The changing part is an ongoing process. God keeps pointing out big and little areas of my life that need changed. Also, just when I think I have learned one lesson, God hits me between the eyes with a 2 X 4 and teaches me something else. I told someone that I wished he would use something softer.)

LET US PRAY (Please use this as a beginning of your prayer. Finish in your own words, words from your heart.)

Do you laugh at us on April Fool's Day? Teasing each other. Pulling pranks. Lord, do you think your children are a bit silly? Or do you enjoy seeing us having fun? Do you enjoy watching young children trying to put one over on their parents?

I know better, but so often I do deserve to be called a fool. Forgive me, Lord, when I try to put one over on you. Forgive me when I resist changing my life.

I do not want to be fools and live a foolish life. I want my faith built on solid rock - on Your solid rock. And I want to understand your will. Amen

RANDOM FINDS

You just never know where you are going to find words of wisdom. From a television program, I have learned that "You can't do everything, but you can do more than nothing." In other words, "Mary, you may not be able to fix the world, but how about helping one child at a time?" That thought got me started as a volunteer for CASA.

Every year I buy myself a Mary Engelbreit calendar. She has the brightest artwork and thought provoking quotes. One of my favorites is a quote from Marcel Proust: "The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes." I seem to remember hearing that somewhere else.

Psalm 119:18 -- Open my eyes that I may see

Psalm 121:1 -- I lift up my eyes to the hills - where does my help come from?

Luke 24:31 -- Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him

Ephesians 1:18-19 -- I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and his incomparably great power for us who believe.

Who would think a calendar page would send me to the scriptures?

Dear Lord, Open my eyes. Open the eyes of all who read this so they may see the world around them with new eyes. So all will recognize you and seek the riches you have for us. Amen.

Do you like to read? I do and one of my favorite authors is Dean Koontz. I just finished his book From the Corner of His Eye. Normally you would not think about finding any inspirational quotes or ideas from a Dean Koontz book, but two just jumped right off the pages of this book.

Agnes says, "Hope is the food of faith, the staff of life. Don't you think? When we don't allow ourselves to hope, we don't allow ourselves to have purpose. Without purpose, without meaning, life is dark. We've no light within, and we're just living to die."

Wow. Scriptures, here I come.

Psalm 42:5 -- Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.

Psalm 62:5 -- Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him.

Proverbs 23:18 -- There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.

Romans 15:13 -- May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Hebrews 6:19-20 -- We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain, where Jesus, who went before us, has entered on our behalf. He has become a high priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.

Dear Lord, With open eyes, we find hope when we are downcast and disturbed. We find this hope, this rest, in you alone. O, Lord, fill us with joy. With peace. With trust. With open eyes and the power of the Holy Spirit, we are firm and secure because Jesus is our anchor. Amen.

Also from this Dean Koontz book, an artist, Celestina, had just ended her first gallery showing. "By ones and twos, the festive crowd eventually deconstructed, but, for Celestina, an excitement lingered in the usual gallery hush that rebuilt in their wake."

I have a vivid imagination and can picture this. You try: Picture a room in your home. Now fill that room with people. Think about the room being noisy. Busy. A high level of energy that builds each time someone enters the room. During that time, the room takes on a new life as people move here and there. Now think about the evening winding down. First one person leaves and then another. Half are gone. Now only a few remain. Finally you close the door behind the last person and turn back into the room.

Did you hear the room sigh as it returned to normal? But then you look at a napkin dropped on the floor and remember the joke your best friend told. You straighten the pillows and feel concern for the neighbor whose mother is ill. Yes, everyone is gone, but each left something of themselves behind. "The usual hush rebuilt in their wake" but the room was not the same.

Bet you are wondering where this will send me. How about looking into a room with me.

Mark 14:13 -- Jesus sent two of his disciples

Mark 14:16 -- The disciples left, went into the city and found things just as Jesus had told them. So they prepared the Passover.

The disciples left and prepared a room for the Passover. This wasn't anything new. This was Jewish tradition so they prepared the room. A normal room. A normal Passover meal.

Now open your eyes and look at that room. The room is ready and soon Jesus is in the room with his disciples. Many things took place in that room that night. Many traditions were carried out. Startling and troubling conversations were had. Many things were said that the disciples did not understand. Then the evening ended. First Judas left. Then the others. The room was empty. The room could return to normal.

Do you see the water and towel? Do you see the lamb that had been eaten? Do you see the bread that had been broken? The cup? "The usual hush rebuilt in their wake" but the room was not the same.

My dear Lord, With open eyes and renewed hope, we look at the Upper Room. We look and we are not the same. Amen

BILLBOARDS, ADS AND FINDING THE WAY

I do not know who is in charge of advertising agencies, but they need a new CEO.

We do appreciate the information provided on billboards because we can quickly find the nearest gas station, restaurant or hotel, but get real. At 65 mph, small print just does not make the grade and only my husband can remember a phone number that flies by at warp speed. Give me a name and an exit number! Leave the small print and detailed information to ads.

And ads, put in those details. When we travel, we see so many flyers with the name of the store or attraction and a street address, but no town. Well, duh! Don't you think that is a bit important? And you might know where Main and Market streets intersect, but I am trying to find my way from the interstate. Some help here please!

I am not even going to start offering my opinion on television ads.

Oh, no. Another of those whacks between the eyes. "Mary, when others see you, they see me. What does your billboard say? What does your life advertise? Will loved ones or strangers find their way to me by what you advertise?"

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: 2 CORINTHIANS 3:18

And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Have you ever thought of yourself as a billboard or an advertisement? Well, you are and the question is, "What are you advertising?" What do people see as they drive by you? What do people see when they stop to take a closer look?

LET US PRAY

Today ask God, in your own words, words from your heart, to use you in such a way that everyone wants what you have. Let his light so shine through you that all want to hear the message you have to deliver.

WHERE ARE MY EMAILS?

I really enjoy IncrediMail. They have fun backgrounds for my emails. Neat animations. I like IncrediMail because -- Well, right now I do not like IncrediMail!

I know I am not a "geek" and I get frustrated with my lack of computer skills, but I have upgraded their product many times, with absolutely no problems. Until this week.

Up pops, IncrediMail 2! Upgrade now. New and improved! This has been popping up for awhile, but it always said, "But you might want to wait if you don't have the latest program." So I waited. This week, there was no, "But wait.", so I kept hitting next, next until it said, "You now have IncrediMail 2." I was so excited -- Excited until I realized it had not brought my emails forward. And my contacts were missing.

IncrediMail and I are exchanging emails. They said, "Do this." I tried. Only imported emails from October 26, 2010, a few folders I thought I had deleted and an old contact list. I sent their email back and informed them it did not work. As I write this, I am waiting on their okay now try this suggestion.

I have learned a few things: New and improved is not always better. Folders with old emails I thought I had deleted were still hiding in my computer. (Guess delete does not really mean delete and disk cleanup missed a few corners the last time it cleaned.) I should have printed my contact list.

Updating this program is a bit like our Christian life. How many Bibles do you own? Do you buy one each time you see a "new and easier to understand" version? Do you delete things from your life just to find out they are still there, waiting for a weak moment when they can again be in your life? And do you keep a list of contacts you can call on? People who will pray for you? Listen to you? Support you? Do you have a backup of that list in case your system crashes?

Did you just hear God laugh? "Mary, are you a Bible "geek"? Are you making full use of the one you have or are you only using a few kilobytes instead of the gigabytes available? Have you cleaned out your deleted-from-my-life folder lately? Do you know that your first "contact" should be me?"

(Have a great week. I will be on vacation so will not post again until March 18.)

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: EPHESIANS 4:22-24

You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Have you ever upgraded something on your computer only to have that upgrade cause you hours of trying to get it fixed? Have you upgraded your life?

LET US PRAY (Please use this as a beginning of your prayer. Finish in your own words, words from your heart.)

What a strange world we live in. Instant access to information. To people. And we think this is so great. Well, duh, we have always had instant access to you. Lord, we take better care of our computers than we do of our own lives. We update, upgrade and use all the new and improved programs. But sometimes we try to put new upgrades in old programs and it just doesn't work.

Lord, I have been taught about my old corrupt self. I am learning new attitudes. And I have been given a new self. A new self created to be like you, in true righteousness and holiness. Thank you and please keep me on automatic updates. I do not want to miss a thing you have to offer. Amen

CHILDREN'S CHILDREN

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: Proverbs 17:8

Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children.

CHILDREN'S CHILDREN

Children are a blessing! Well, most of the time. We were blessed with a son and a daughter. And they have blessed us with "children's children" or more commonly known as grandchildren.

It is hard to believe but our oldest is 16 and our youngest turns 7 on February 19. Today I would like to tell you about Timothy (aka Timmy).

Timmy is the youngest of four boys. Yes, four! To picture this boy, please think about blonde hair, eyes that just snap and a smile that - A smile that melts your heart as you ask, "Okay, what have you done now?"

When it was time for Timmy to start kindergarten, the words heard over and over were, "And you have to keep your clothes on." This is a boy who never wears shoes and thinks having on anything more than a pair of shorts is being way overdressed.

One day I heard his older brother thanking him for getting his army man for him. Where had he gotten it? From out on the roof! Our daughter came in and heard the tale end of the conversation and asked, "Timothy, were you out on the roof?" He looked her square in the eyes and said, "No."

He then gave me a quick glance out of the corner of his eye. I never said a word. He left the room and Terri said, "He was out on the roof wasn't he?" She knows her boys.

Timmy is great at stirring up his older brothers and trying to convince me that it is not his turn to clear the table. Timmy is the only person I know who can be quietly sitting on the school bus and then hit himself in the eye with a school book while trying to kill a bug. Timmy -

Timmy is the first one to come running through the house saying, "Grandma is here. Grandma is here."

Timmy is the last one asleep when we have a movie night. And Timmy gives great hugs.

Timmy is my favorite youngest grandson.

Yes, children's children are a crown to the aged. You will have to ask our son and daughter if parents are the pride of their children

QUESTION OF THE DAY

Do you have a "Timmy" in your family? Someone with eyes that just snap and a smile that melts your heart as you ask, "Okay, what have you done now?" in your family?

LET US PRAY

Today, please think about the children you know. Your children. Children in your family. Children of friends. Children of those you work with. Children at your church. Children in your neighborhood. Children who are healthy and can run and jump and go out on roofs. Children who are not healthy. Think about these children, lift them up in prayer and ask God to surround them with His love.

THE BIBLE IS FULL OF LIES

I have heard for years that the Bible is a lie. Well, I have decided they are right. The Bible is full of lies and it doesn't take long for the lies to begin.

Genesis 3:4: "You will not surely die," the serpent said to the woman. See! There are lies in the Bible. In the very first Book, the serpent lied to the woman to get her to do what he wanted.

And those brothers lied about Joseph. Genesis 37:12-36 tells how the brothers sold Joseph and then let Jacob think his favorite son was dead. Talk about lies! And all because they were jealous.

There are also lies in the New Testament. One of Jesus' disciples lied. Not once, but three times! "I don't know what you're talking about," he said. "I don't know the man." And then a third time, Peter swore, "I don't know the man!" Well, of course Peter knew Jesus. Peter lied!!!

Oh, there are more lies. Leaders and kings lied about the power of their gods so the people would follow them. A father lied and tricked a man into marrying his oldest daughter. A woman lied about switching her dead baby for a live baby.

Men lied.

Women lied.

But, mainly, the devil lied. That is Satan's biggest weapon. Lies he tells and lies he puts into the hearts of others. Satan knows how to use each of our fears. Doubts. Desires. And misguided emotions of pride, envy, jealousy and greed. Satan uses us to get his work done.

Matthew 4:8: Again, the devil took Jesus to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. "All this I will give you," he said, "if you will bow down and worship me." Now, if that is not a big, bold faced lie, I have never heard one.

But, Jesus knew it was a lie and he knew what to do. Jesus said to him, "Away from me, Satan. For it is written; 'Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.' "

QUESTION OF THE DAY

Do you know what to do when that ole, sneaky, snaky, mouth-full-of-lies devil comes toward you?

LET US PRAY (Please use this as a beginning of your prayer. Finish in your own words, words from your heart.)

Lord, I do know what it feels like to have the devil put lies into my heart. Those lies make me question who I am. They make me question my worth. They make me question my faith. Today I ask for wisdom and strength. I need the wisdom of Your Word because it is through Your Word that I will recognize the lies of Satan. I need strength. Strength to say, "Away from me, Satan. I worship the Lord my God and serve Him only." Amen

GET READY!

I don't know about where you live, but much of the United States has been a bit under the weather. And I am not referring to the flu bug that hit me last week. No, I am referring to that white stuff that has decorated our back yard, covered our highways and caused every school to close. I knew it was really, really, REALLY serious when they announced that Tuesday night Bingo had been cancelled. We can do without meetings. We can do without the basketball game, but when Bingo is cancelled you know it is bad!

The storm of a lifetime was predicted. We could get two feet of snow. Freezing rain. High wind. Oh, my! And people listened. People got ready for the storm. People prepared!

I will admit, early Monday morning Bill went to the store and got milk, flashlight batteries and a couple other things. Late Monday afternoon, he went to town and said the parking lot, at our one and only grocery store, was filled. People were also topping off their tanks, in case the power went out. Yes, people were preparing.

Superintendants watched the front move in and called off schools. Highway crews were put on full alert. Factories closed early so employees could get home safely. Yes, people were preparing.

People prepared. People watched the weather maps. People were concerned that if the storm hit too hard the Super Bowl might not take place. We were all getting ready for a storm that might happen.

Did the storm come? Yes and it hit some areas harder than others. People were stranded on highways. Power was out. Country roads were drifted shut. Neighbors helped clean out each others driveways. Yes, the storm did come and we might be lucky enough to be hit again.

TODAYS SCRIPTURES

Therefore, prepare your minds for action, be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. Peter 1:13

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. John 14:2-3

You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. Luke 12:40

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Did you have to prepare for a storm this last week? Was it a weather storm or a personal storm?

Do you prepare for spiritual storms? Do you prepare so you will ready when the Son of Man comes again? There is a room with your name on it. Have your prepared yourself to enter your room?

LET US PRAY

Snow! Your earth received a good share of snow during the last few weeks. Lord, watch over those who are cold because they cannot afford heat or because power lines are down. Comfort and protect all who do not have walls to keep out the storms. Give people wisdom to be careful when they have to go out and protection to all those who brave the elements to provide for our safety. Lord, it seems we spend a major portion of our lives preparing for one storm or another. We go from this crisis to that crisis. We buy bread to feed our bodies and put off until tomorrow the bread we need for our souls.

(Finish in your own words, words from your heart. Talk to God about preparing your soul.)

Lord, keep my room ready. Amen

JIGSAW PUZZLES

Do you like to work jigsaw puzzles? I sure do. My mother did too, so that must be where I get it. I think it has to do with putting things in order. The thrill of looking for a piece and finding it because just one tiny speck of blue is on it. Or comparing the piece to the picture until you find where it should go. And no, I do not put the border together first. I used to do that, but my card table just isn't big enough. The border is saved for last.

My current puzzle is 1,000 pieces and I have worked on it for almost two weeks. Honestly, I thought this would go together quickly. Wrong! Hopefully, I will get it finished tonight.

Here is the puzzle I am working on.

What do you see when you look at this picture? Do you see different colors? Different shapes? Places where pieces are missing? Do you wonder what it will look like when it is finished?

When I look at puzzles, I see my life. The pieces all fit together and the missing pieces are right there waiting to be put into place. Waiting for me to learn new lessons. Waiting for me to --- Well, waiting for me to do it God's way. As I take steps in the right direction, another piece of my life is put into place. I like to think about God putting my life together.

There is one thing God does different. God puts the border together first. The border of my life puzzle is His love.

QUESTION OF THE DAY

Have you ever felt like parts of you were missing?

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: Genesis 1:1

In the beginning God created

LET US PRAY (Please use this as a beginning of your prayer. Finish in your own words, words from your heart.)

Lord, You created my life and I am a puzzle only you can put together. Keep putting those pieces in place until I am whole. Amen

SAVE MY BROTHER

I was going to write on winning 2.5 million dollars and how it was only going to cost me $895 postage and handling to receive that money from Jamaica. Bill and I have laughed about this all day.

Then I went on online. I am not laughing now. I have tears in my eyes and a humble heart, because I heard about a 13 year old boy, Jordan Rice, who said, "Save my brother."

Jordan Rice lived in Australia and, as you know, Australia has flooded. Many lives have been saved. Many lives have been lost.

During disasters and emergencies, the true nature of a person emerges. When the rescuers could only save one, Jordan told them to save his brother. And they did.

TODAYS SCRIPTURES:

Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Romans 12:10

Whoever loves his brother lives in the light, and there is nothing in him to make him stumble. 1 John 2:10

This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. 1 John 3:16

SAVE MY BROTHER -- Jordan, rest in peace.

LET US PRAY (Please use this as a beginning of your prayer. Finish in your own words, words from your heart.)

Our dear Lord, we come to you with tears over lost and disrupted lives. Lives that have been touched and changed because of floods. Snowstorms. Violence. We lift up each person that is searching for a loved one. Cleaning up the mud and the snow. We lift up each person that has empty arms because a loved one has died. We lift up the injured. Lord, give comfort.

As our tears flow, we also feel humbled by those, like Jordan, who have said, "Save my brother." Lord, surround each rescue worker. Each person that is helping their neighbor. Or helping a stranger. Be with doctors and nurses as they give care to the injured. Be with ministers as they give comfort. Be with those providing food. Or clothes. And those that sit and listen or hold a hand so one of your children will not feel alone. Lord, give comfort. Amen

THERE ARE RULES. THERE ARE LOSERS. THERE ARE BAD GRADES.

Why have I waited so long to read the book The Last Lecture, by Randy Pausch? I am only halfway through and can hardly wait to finish. I will then watch the video of his last lecture.

Mr. Pausch tells about being on a football team and the coach really getting after him.

Coach Graham used to ride me hard. I remember one practice in particular. "You're doing it all wrong, Pausch. Go back! Do it again!" I tried to do what he wanted. It wasn't enough. "You owe me, Pausch! You're doing push-ups after practice."

When I was finally dismissed, one of the assistant coaches came over to reassure me. "Coach Graham rode you pretty hard, didn't he?" he said. "That's a good thing," the assistant told me. "When you're screwing up and nobody says anything to you anymore, that means they've given up on you."

"They've given up on you" -- That made me think about how we treat our kids today. What are we teaching them? Do we give up on them or do we teach them? Do we care enough to discipline them?

I read a newspaper article about parents suing a school because their son got kicked off the basketball team. He didn't want to cut his hair. The rule: Hair cut above the eyes, over the ears and off the neck. Makes sense to me. You would want your players to be able to see where they are going. The parents said their child should be able to have his hair cut anyway he wanted. If the parents win, what does this child learn? He learns rules are not important. I have news for all people: There are rules in life. The choice is yours -- Follow the rules and play on the basketball team or wear your hair long.

There is no last place anymore. Every team gets a trophy. We wouldn't want anyone to feel bad. Give me a break! There are losers. One team wins and one team loses, not one team wins and the other team almost wins.

And teachers, get out those red pens. There are mistakes!!! 2 + 2 = 4. 2 + 2 = 3 needs a red mark beside it, not a discreet pencil giving them half a credit for trying. We are creating a generation of students who do not know how to take criticism.

Have we given up on our children? When we allow them to not follow the rules or suffer the consequences, when we do not teach them how to lose and when we do not correct them, it is because we have given up on them.

Oh drat. God has rules he expects us to follow. God says some people will lose out and not enter the kingdom of heaven. God does discipline us when we do wrong.

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: HEBREWS 12:5, 6 and 11

And you have forgotten that word of encouragement that addresses you as sons: "My son, do not make light of the Lord's discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you, because the Lord disciplines those he loves and he punishes everyone he accepts as a son." (Notes on this text: Suffering and persecution should be seen as corrective and instructive training for our spiritual development as his children.)

No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

This is a new year. Is there anyone you have given up on? Anyone you have just said, "Why bother? They just don't get it and will not listen?" Is there anyone you need to give another chance?

LET US PRAY (Please use this as a beginning of your prayer. Finish in your own words, words from your heart.)

How do I pray for discipline? I don't like getting told I have done something wrong. I don't want to lose! And all those rules! How about if I just do as I want? How about if I --- O, Lord, discipline me. Teach me your rules so I may learn to live the abundant life you have planned for me. O, Lord, discipline me. Teach me to handle defeat so I can learn humility. O, Lord, discipline me. Do not quietly point out my sins. Be bold so I do not miss your directions. O, Lord, discipline me. It is then that I know you love me and that you have not given up on me.           Amen

IT SOUNDED GOOD

May 2011 be filled with the peace, joy and hope that only God can give and the love you deserve from those around you. HAPPY NEW YEARS!! Mary

IT SOUNDED GOOD

"Now that sounds good. And looks easy to make." I thought as I looked at the back of a box of macaroni and cheese. I saved the recipe for someday when I needed something quick to fix.

Wednesday was that day. All the ingredients were in the pantry so I started mixing.

1 box macaroni and cheese, cooked as directed and 2 cans no bean chili stirred together and put into baking dish, topped with 1 box cornbread mix, prepared as directed. Put in oven and bake. Easy! Looked good when I took it out of the oven.

Then we took a bite. My poor husband had this look in his eyes that said, "How do I tell her this is not fit to eat?"

I took pity on him and said it first, "This is awful."

I don't know what happened but this recipe just did not work for us. Although we grew up being told to clean our plates because some child was starving in China, we quickly tossed the whole thing.

2010 ends at midnight and we have a new year in front of us.

Look back at 2010 and at midnight toss all the things that just did not work. The things in your life that have a negative hold on you. The resentments you just refuse to let go of. At midnight, let go!

Look forward to 2011 and at 12:01, take hold of -- take hold of nothing. At 12:01, open your hands, both hands, palm up and say, "God, I am ready for all the wonders and blessings you have waiting for me during this new year."

TODAYS SCRIPTURE AND PRAYER:

Please end this year reading your favorite scripture and offering a prayer from your heart, in your own words.

(Don't have a favorite scripture? Try Psalm 86:11-13, Isaiah 58:11, Matthew 11:28-30 or 1 John 3:1.)

PREPARING FOR CHIRSTMAS - PART 4

"Calm down. Calm down." God said in a quiet voice. "Everything is right on schedule and everyone is ready."

Joseph looked at his wife and said, "Mary, I am sorry the journey has been so long and this is not exactly where I thought you would give birth, but it is quiet here. The inn would have been so noisy. Look at that sky. Do the stars seem brighter? Is it me or does the air seem charged with energy? The darkness even has a different look. I must be very tired. And worried. Are you sure you are comfortable? How are the pains?"

"O, my sweet Joseph. I would not want to be anywhere else tonight. I feel as if I am surrounded with love. The pains are strong, but that means this baby will soon be born. Poor thing, bounced around inside of me as we traveled." Mary answered.

"Is there anything I can get you? A drink? Did you notice how the animals have settled down? It is as if they know what is going to happen." Joseph said as he comforted Mary.

Mary looked into Joseph's eyes, "I am so thankful you had that dream and listened to the angel. Joseph, I would never lie to you but I know you had doubts. These months have been hard but we have been so blessed to be chosen to raise God's son. Do you like the name Jesus? I do not understand how this baby will save people from their sins. Do you?"

"No, but we do not have to understand." Joseph softly replied. "Rest. You look tired. Did you know I have been working on a cradle? I thought I saw you peek in the carpentry shop one day when I was working on it. Sleep, if you can. I will be right here."

Mary smiled, "Yes, I saw the cradle. You were sneaking off to the shop and I wanted to see what you were working on. Oh. That was a strong pain. Do you have everything ready? Cloths to wrap him in? I think I will close my eyes for just a moment. I feel I will need all my strength very soon."

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: LUKE 2:4 - 7

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

THINK ABOUT THE BIRTH

A very young girl. Her first baby. No hospital. No nurse. No doctor. No epidural. This was a Holy Child, but this child was born in human form by human birth. There would have been pain. Do you suppose they were afraid? How would Joseph have felt? How would Mary have felt?

How would God have felt watching his plan unfold? Waiting for his Son to be born.

Are you ready for Christmas? Are you ready to accept the Christ Child born to the Virgin Mary?

Tomorrow is Christmas. The day we celebrate the birth of Jesus. Are you ready for Christmas?

PREPARING FOR CHRISTMAS - PART 3

"Got a minute?" Gabriel asked God. "I was just wondering how it went with Joseph. Mary is ready to return home and I have been so busy making sure everything on my list is done, I haven't had time to hear an update."

God smiled, "Went just as I planned. I knew Joseph was a righteous man and when the angel came to him in his dream, Joseph understood that he was to take Mary as his wife. He is taking Mary home now. There will be no physical union until she has given birth but this will give them time to really get to know each other. Besides, these next few months are going to be busy."

"Tell me about it," Gabriel sighed. "The genealogy is verified and written down so there can be no question that the baby is of the house and line of David. Caesar Augustus has started work on the decree for a census. I don't think he realizes the confusion this will cause or that the census is all part of your plan. I know hotels and motels are ideas for the future, but they sure would come in handy during this census. So many people traveling. A mail in form would be a lot easier."

"Now Gabriel," God said with a bit of sarcasm in his voice, "you know all things in their time and what would the people of Bethlehem think if a seven story, 300 room hotel just appeared on the edge of town? Besides my Son needs to be born in a humble surrounding. And the angel has the lines memorized. The company of heavenly hosts would be so disappointed if they couldn't wake up the shepherds with the glory of the Lord shining all around them. Don't want to disappoint the heavenly hosts."

God continued, "I do so worry about Joseph and Mary. This time has not been easy for them and so many people just do not understand. Mary has been very strong but the trip to Bethlehem will be long and hard. Yes, the time is getting closer."

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: MATTHEW 1:18 - 25

This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.

But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel -- which means, "God with us."

When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.

THINK ABOUT JOSEPH

Joseph was in a binding relationship with Mary, whom he called his wife, which could only be broken by divorce. What must Joseph have thought when he found out Mary was with child? Did he believe her? Why would he divorce her if he believed her? Sounds like he had doubts. Do you think he might have gone and talked to someone? Asked for advice? Did he talk to Mary's parents? Or did he just ponder on this, alone and confused? Feeling betrayed. Then he had a dream.

Can you put yourself in Joseph's place? Can you feel his confusion? Can you imagine waking up from the dream? Would you have the courage to do as the angel had asked? Would you wonder if you could be a father to a son conceived from the Holy Spirit? Would you feel inadequate? Would you feel honored?

PREPARING FOR CHRISTMAS - PART 2

"Well, Gabriel," asked God, "what did you think of Mary?"

Gabriel answered, "What a wonderful young lady. She was a bit confused about exactly how she would become pregnant, but willingly accepted her role. She has gone to visit Elizabeth."

Looking down from heaven, God told Gabriel, "Yes, she arrived safely. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby in her womb leaped."

Gabriel chuckled, "Elizabeth thought she would never have children. She receives a surprise visit from Mary and the baby leaps with joy. To top that off, Elizabeth is filled with the Holy Spirit. Elizabeth has had an exciting day. What did she say to Mary?"

"Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear!" God replied. "Elizabeth called Mary 'blessed.' The baby Elizabeth delivers will be very special in the life of Jesus.

"So what is next?" Gabriel wondered.

"Mary is going to stay with Elizabeth a few months and then go home. Joseph has been informed that Mary is with child and, being a righteous man, does not want to expose her to public disgrace. He thinks he will quietly divorce her. I have a better idea." God replied.

"Oh, listen, Mary is singing."

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: LUKE 1:46 - 55

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.

THINK ABOUT ELIZABETH

What was Elizabeth's role in the Christmas story? She opened her home to an unwed mother-to-be. She was the first to call Mary and her child blessed. Did she hear the song Mary sang? Elizabeth gave birth to John the Baptist.

According to Luke 1:7, Elizabeth was well along in years. That means her body was past its prime for giving birth. And think about being well along in years and then having to potty train a child. Raise a teenager. Then a young man. And all the while making sure he never took wine or other fermented drink. Talk about being odd man out at every wedding and party. Do you think being a mother at her age made Elizabeth's job harder?

In a Christmas play, the role of Elizabeth would be that of a supporting actress. Do you think she ever felt like she was playing second fiddle? A bit below Mary? Her son not as great as Jesus? Do you think she was ever jealous?

Think about Elizabeth. God did not look at Elizabeth and consider her too old. God gave Elizabeth a very important supporting role in the birth of His Son. What role has God given you?

PREPARING FOR CHRISTMAS - PART 1

The birth of Jesus was no surprise. The Old Testament had foretold the birth, but what would it have been like as the time neared? Heaven must have gone to "High Alert." Everyone on standby. All checking their duties. Do you think the angels were disappointed when they were not picked for the "important" assignments?

Do you suppose there was a check list?

   Elizabeth pregnant - check

   Zechariah will name the baby boy John - check

   Mother for my Son selected - check

   Gabriel have the message to Mary memorized - check

   Star ready to shine - check

   Wise Men reading the scriptures - check

What activity! What excitement! What was God feeling? What would the conversation have been like, as God prepared Gabriel?

   "Are you sure this is the only way?" asked Gabriel.

   "Yes," answered God. "Mary will be a wonderful mother for my Son. She is such a servant and will be called blessed by all generations."

   "She is so young. So humble. You are right. She will be a good mother." said Gabriel.

   "Do you see how strong she is?" asked God. "What you are going to ask her to do will take strength. An inner strength she does not realize she has. But it is there and will let her stand tall when people talk and do not understand."

   "Besides," God said softly, "raising Jesus will not always be easy. Jesus will give Mary and Joseph great joy, but they will also experience great sorrow."

   God continued, "Gabriel, it is time. I am sending you to Nazareth. Please deliver my message to Mary. The people have been walking in darkness a very long time. Soon a child will be born. My people will be saved."

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: LUKE 1:26-38

In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you."

Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end."

"How will this be," Mary asked the angel, "since I am a virgin?"

The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God."

"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." Then the angel left her.

THINK ABOUT MARY --

Just for a minute, put yourself in Mary's shoes. Would you wonder if you had fallen asleep and this was all a dream? How would you explain this? Would anyone believe you? Would you believe until you saw Elizabeth was actually pregnant?

Just for a minute, put yourself in Mary's shoes. Would you be frightened? Would you be proud? Would you say, "I am the Lord's servant. May it be to me as you have said." Or would you consider saying, "No way. Find someone else."