I WILL NOT …….

How would you finish that sentence?  There are so many actions that could follow those words.

Today I would like you to think about the trials in life.  We ALL have them.  Sometimes they come one at a time and sometimes we are just overwhelmed. 

Trials – I will not….. 

I will not hide!  So often, when faced with the death of a loved one, an illness, an embarrassment or the world finding out our worst thought, deed or action, our first response is to hide.  To stay within the safety of our home.  To lower our head so no one sees the fear, regret or tears in our eyes. 

We often hide because we are afraid.  How will I survive without my spouse/child/friend?  How will I face this illness?  How do I overcome my embarrassment?  How do I go out now that everyone knows?  How?  You allow God to hold you up.

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.  For I am the LORD, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, do not fear; I will help you. 

Isaiah 41:10 and 13

When trials come, I will not hide.

I will not stay! 

Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you.  Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm.

Proverbs 4:25-26

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me, your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Psalm 23:4

Will trials and hardships come?  Yes!  Will they be hard, terrible and cruel?  Sometimes!  Will we understand them?  No!  What action do we take? 

KEEP MOVING FORWARD.  The Bible tells us there will be hardships.  Trials.  Suffering.  There is no place in the Word of God that says life will be a piece of cake.  What it does say is that we are to look straight ahead.  We are to keep our feet moving on the path.  We are to walk THROUGH. 

When trials come, I will not stay.

I will not forget!

Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.  And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.

Romans 5:3-5

As much as we hate to admit it, we learn from our trials. 

When trials are over, I will not forget. 

I will not forget the calm before the trial.

I will not forget the whirlwind during the trial.

I will not forget the blessings through the trial.

I will not forget the hand of God supporting me the whole time!!!!!!!!!!!!!

= = = = = = = = = = = =

This blog is written because our family has come through a trial.  Or maybe I should say we are on the other side and almost through. 

The other day I went for my annual “see the doctor so you can get meds” checkup.  The doctor asked, “How is your stress level.” 

My answer was, “Do you want to know about the stress or about the blessings from the stress.”

It was then that I realized that I was at the “I will not forget” stage.  I never want to forget the kindness and generosity of so many people.  Friends who stood beside us.  Those that extended extreme understanding and compassion to our son.  Two ministers that were there for us and a Sunday School class that listened and shed tears with me.  I never want to forget because I pray that tomorrow and the next day and the next day, I will be able to treat others with this same compassion and support.

And now?

When trials are over, I will move forward with a new understanding.

Greetings on this Friday afternoon,

Well, I did not write a blog today.  It is just one of those days that got away from me so I will write one the first of the week.

Since you have nothing to read here, I suggest you read Psalm 139.  My favorite Psalm and one that assures me that God knows everything about me and loves me anyway.

Have a fantastic, super, blessed day,
Mary

LAUNDRY AGAIN!

Time to get a song in your head?  Ready?  Beatles – Eleanor Rigby.  Got it?  Change of words…

All the dirty laundry, Where does it all come from?

I swear there is a laundry gremlin living somewhere in this house.  That gremlin must take clean clothes out of the drawers and closets and toss it into the laundry hamper while we are sleeping.  There is no way two people can have this many dirty clothes.  We are clean people.  We wear jeans more than once.  Shirts/blouses/sweatshirts more than one time.  Unlike teenagers, we do not throw clothes on the floor after each time they have touched our body.  When hubby is working in the fields, I understand the hamper will accumulate more than normal, but this is winter.  Bill is not outside getting all sweaty from working in the yard and garden.  And I have not had the cleaning urge, so my work clothes are not piling up either.

And, have you noticed laundry NEVER gets done.  You no sooner finish than someone decides to take a shower and, wham, there is LAUNDRY!!

< < < < <   > > > > >

Then Jesus came to them (the disciples – that is you and me) and said, “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

“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?  When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?  When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’

The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’  Matthew 25:37-40

Go baptize.  Feed the hungry.  Give the thirsty something to drink.  Invite a stranger into your life.  Provide clothes for those that need them.  Take care of the sick.  Visit those in prison.

Have you ever thought how being a Christian is like doing the laundry?  IT NEVER ENDS!  There is always something to do.

I worked on the soup supper.  Fed the hungry.  Check.

What about clothes for the needy?  Clean the closet and donate to Goodwill.  Check.

Have you talked to a stranger lately?  I’m guessing the person behind me in the line at the grocery store does not count here.  Invite the new couple at church for a meal.  Invite a stranger.  Check.

Oh, yes.  I think that will be enough.  I know it is not all of them, but there are other people.  Let them do their share.  The minister can do the baptizing.  I know there are some doing jail ministry.  There are water fountains around town, so why should anyone be thirsty?

Yup, guess I can go rest.  I have checked off my share of the work.

All the hungry, thirsty, strangers, naked, sick, prisoners, needing baptized,

Where do they all come from?

You see, just like the laundry hamper never stays empty, the needs of God’s children never end.

Feed the hungry.  The first person, the next person, the next person….

Clothe the naked.  The first person, the next person, the next person….

Befriend the stranger.  The first person, the next person, the next person….

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.  Make disciples of all.  The first person, the next person, the next person….

Seems to me the Lord just keeps filling the hamper.

“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!’  Matthew 25:21

I have the last load in and feel like I have done a pretty good job.  Then low and behold, someone throws something in the hamper.

Yup, just when us good Christians think we have done enough for the hungry, thirsty, strangers, naked, sick, prisoners and those needing baptized, the Lord smiles and tosses “many things” our way.

Will the laundry ever end?  No.  Will the work God has for us ever end?  NO.

Now go be a good and faithful servant.  

GOD’S WILL – I HAVE NO IDEA

You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God,

you will receive what he has promised.

Hebrews 10:36

Being in the will of God was the meat of the sermon last Sunday.  When you google that phrase you get 20 verses on the Will of God, 22 verses on the Will of God, the best verses on the Will of God and 911,999,997 other results.  Well, that is all fine and dandy – when you have done the will of God – but I have one question:

JUST EXACTLY WHAT IS THE WILL OF GOD FOR MY LIFE?

Jeremiah 29:11 tells me; “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Amazing!!  But do you suppose God could be a bit more specific.  I am not a mind reader.  And I have not found an app to explain the will of God.

Hebrews 13:20-21 adds; Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Oh good, I am to be equipped with everything I need to do HIS will!  But what exactly am I to do that will please God?

Let’s see: (a few of those best verses on God’s will)

• Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.  Psalm 119:105
• Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.  Proverbs 3:5-6
•  He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.  And what does the LORD require of you?  To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.   Micah 6:8
• If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.  James 1:5

These do ease my frustration a bit.  When I trust the Lord completely (I am getting frustrated again because there are days when ‘completely’ just is not there.) and do not think I can handle it on my own or think for one second I can figure it out, there will be a light to show me the way and the way will be a straight path.  A straight path sure would save a lot of time instead of going here, there and yonder on my own.

Okay, I like these:  a light, a path and not on my own.

I bet if my feet are on his straight path I might be able to meet God’s requirements.  Hopefully, God will have patience with me and give me the knowledge I need as I learn to live honestly, to have compassion and to be respectful. 

• your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.  Matthew 6:10
• Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.  Luke 9:23

How do I know what God’s will is for my life? 

I TAKE MYSELF OUT OF THE WHOLE PROCESS!!!

It is God’s kingdom.  It is God’s will that is to be done and God’s way that I am to live not how the world tells me.  And not how I tell myself to live.  And it is daily.  And I am to follow.  And I do not have to know where the path leads.

I will be in “the will of God” when I allow God’s light to lead me.

What path are you on?

What light are you allowing to shine in your life?

Are you leading or are you following?

You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God,

you will receive what he has promised.

Hebrews 10:36

The promises of God are wonderful!  Amazing!  Absolute!  I pray the light on the path God has for you is so bright there is no way you can miss it.  I pray your feet are firmly planted on his path.  I pray you act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with God.  I pray you daily find wisdom in God’s Word and then wisdom moves you to deny yourself, take up the Cross of Jesus and follow!

Have a blessed week.

RING, RING

10:00 AM -- Ring, Ring – “Hello, there is nothing wrong with your credit card but,”  Hang up.

11:02 AM -- Ring, Ring – “Oh excuse me, I had to adjust my head set.  You recently stayed at one of our resorts”  Hang up.

12:30 PM – Ring, Ring – “I would like to offer you an extended warranty”  Hang up.

3:30 PM – Ring, Ring – “You have won $5 million.”  And how did I win this five million?  “Oh, I do not know.  I am just to arrange for you to receive the money.  Now you will need to send us $895”  Hang up.

11:10 PM -- Ring, Ring – (Notice 11:10 PM – being past our bedtime we were sound asleep) “We know where you are.  We are coming over.”  Go right ahead.  See you.  They hung up on me.  I went back to sleep.

Do any of these sound familiar?  We have received the first three so many times I am beginning to wonder if I should invite them over for dinner.  Or at least learn about their family.  Maybe get a call back number.  The calls, about winning millions, only come occasionally now.  They might be a bit upset because I have not sent the transfer fee and I keep hanging up on them.  Maybe I should be friendlier.  Ask them about the weather.  Check on their children.

The call at 11:10 PM was the normal “kids have phone, kids will make crank calls” and they were a bit confused when I did not get upset.  Don’t ya hate when a crank caller hangs up on you.  How rude!!!

BUT what would happen if I received this call:

Anytime – Ring, Ring – “Mary.”  Yes.  “Mary, this is Jesus.  I happen to be in the neighborhood and would like to stop by.  Is that okay?”  Of course!  (Hey, I am not going to tell Jesus it is not a good time.)  “Be there in a bit.”  I will be here.  Hang up.  (Oh, drat.  I should have let Jesus hang up first.  What if he had something else to say?  What if he needed directions?  Silly me, HE knows where I live.) 

In a bit?  Here?  In our home?  Dust?  Is there dust?  What books are out?  Where is the Bible?  Should I delete those movies and programs I have on the DVR just in case HE turns on the TV? 

Hubby?  He is out for a walk.  I better call him.  He will not want to miss this visitor. 

Food?  Will He want something to eat?  Does He eat?  Bacon?  Oh, Jewish background.  No.  Peter’s dream makes pork on the approved list.  But maybe something lighter.  I have grapes.  Grapes, a little cheese,…..

Wear?  Do I need to change clothes?  This is stressful.  Why did I tell HIM it was a good time to come over?

OH NO!!  HE is here and all I have done is stand here and go in circles.  

Take a breath.  Open the door. 

Those eyes.  That smile.

“May I come in?” 

YES!  YES!  COME IN. 

                 —    —    —    —    –    –    –    –

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 few things are needed – or indeed only one.  Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”               Luke 10:38-42

If Jesus knocked at your door, would you be a Martha or a Mary?

you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed – or indeed only one.  Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.”

If Jesus knocks at your door:

Take a breath.  Open the door. 

Look into HIS eyes. 

Notice HIS smile.

Hear HIM ask, “May I come in?” 

Sincerely reply, “YES!  YES!  COME IN.”

AND AGAIN GOD WEPT

I almost dread hearing the news.  What has happened to our world?  Our country?

This blog has been my writing outlet for a long time now.  Most posts have been positive.  Hopefully offering anyone that stopped by a glimpse into life and how God can be seen in our day to day lives.  Hope with each sunrise and peace with each sunset.  With glimpses of God in the laughter of a child, or the touch of a friend, or the sweet kiss of a loved one.  With the confirmation of forgiveness and mercy and grace.  But today…..

Today, once again Satan invaded our lives with another shooting.  How sad is the word “another.”  These killings have become a part of our existence.  They are now a part of our day to day life.  Yes, murder has been around since Cain and Abel, but when did it become so common that we say, “Oh no.  Another shooting.”

When did hate become so acceptable?  When did the lives of others become worthless?  When did we quit being shocked?

Today I…today I have more questions than answers.

BUT, and it is a big BUT, I have not lost my hope, trust or faith in God. 

From The Message Proverbs 3:5-7:

Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don’t try to figure out everything on your own.

Listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go;

he’s the one who will keep you on track.

Don’t assume that you know it all.  Run to God!  Run from evil!

I do not have to know the answers.  I do not have to figure it out on my own.  I only have to run to God. 

When you have a day that is hard.

When you turn on the news and your heart breaks.

When you have more questions than answers.

Hold on to your hope, trust and faith and run to God.

God.

“Yes, Mary.”

That part about don’t assume you know it all?

“Yes.”

Can I take that part out?  I have some people convinced I know it all.

“No, Mary.  You have to leave that in.  By the way, you are not fooling anyone.”

OK.  You can quit smiling.  But, God, just so you know, every shooting, bombing and killing breaks my heart.

“I know.  Each one breaks mine too.”

ANOTHER YEAR GONE --

It seems the last week in December is spent looking back.  Every news show, newspaper, magazine, website and Facebook post has something to do with the Top 10 Events in the world, the country, the state and our lives.  There is the annual list of banished words, new words, dangerous toys, most popular baby names and, of course, the Darwin Awards.

After looking back, it is then suggested everyone should make New Year’s resolutions based on how we would like our lives to improve the next year.  I have never understood this because most resolutions will not make it through January 1, nor all the way to March 15 or June 2.  And no way will they survive to September 22.  Take me for example.  No matter what I resolve to do, the diet does not last because those rolls at Nordmann’s call my name each morning and our daughter makes the best cheesecake, watching NCIS wins out over exercise and patience is still not a virtue.  All that looking back and soul searching to better my life all for zip.  Nada.  Nothing. 

Yes, ANOTHER YEAR IS GONE!!!  I hate to put this song into your head for the next week or two but my advice to the year going out:  Let It Go. 

There is something so much better.  What you ask?

THE YEAR COMING IN, OF COURSE!!!

The Prophet, Jeremiah, had to give the kingdom of Judah a bit of bad news. Their kingdom was about to be destroyed.  He also informed them that the future was bright and full of mercy, restoration, renewal and a new covenant.  Think of the old year/new year with these words from Jeremiah.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.   Jeremiah 29:11

PLANS!!  God has a plan.  Not a review of the last year, but a plan for the coming year.  A plan for your life. 

Philippians was written by the apostle Paul and contains no Old Testament quotations.  That means Philippians is a “looking forward” book.

Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it.  But one thing I do:  Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 3:13-14

FORGETTING WHAT IS BEHIND AND GOING AHEAD!!  I like that idea.  Moving toward the goal instead of tied to yesterday.  A goal for your life.

What will 2017 contain?  We have no idea!!  What we do know is that there is a plan and a goal.  Now take what you learned in 2016.  Quit looking back.  Allow God’s plan for your life to become a reality and keep moving closer to your goal.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

PROMISE OF ---

Entitled PROMISE OF, our Advent Calendar offered a blessing each day. 

The promise of Jesus is His presence and friendship.  He is a light in our dark times and always our savior. 

The promise of Jesus is truth and faithfulness.  He meets our needs and opens the door to possibilities beyond our wildest imagination.  The promise of Jesus is our adoption into His perfect love.

We were given the Promise of the Holy Spirit and, when we listen to the Spirit, we receive wisdom and wise counsel.

Are you ready for the Good News?  Really ready?  You better sit down because this is just going to blow the socks right off your feet.

When you – me – everyone accepts the Promises of Jesus, they receive ---

The opportunity to be FILLED

The blessing of a NEW LIFE

The cleansing of being FORGIVEN

The thrill of JOY

The wonder of GLORY

A sense of HOPE

A place to REST

The gift of GRACE

The assurance of VICTORY

A life of PURPOSE

The sense of PEACE

The promise of ETERNAL LIFE

I do not know about you, but I want it all!!!  I want every promise!  Every blessing! 

Christmas morning I want to hear Jesus say, “Mary, my gifts are too great to fit under any tree.  My gifts for you cannot be put in a box, wrapped and tied with a bow.  My gifts cannot be ordered online.  My gifts require no charge card.”

Christmas morning I want to hear Jesus say, “Mary, my child, it is all yours.  Every promise, I give you.  Every blessing, I give you.”

Christmas morning I want to hear Jesus tenderly say, “Merry Christmas, my child.  I love you.”

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.  And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord

Luke 2:11

What do you want for Christmas?

Do you want it all?

You can have it all!

God, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, has so much to give – GIVE – you.  If you have not accepted Jesus as your Savior, He is waiting for you.  Just waiting for you to open your heart and allow the Spirit to come in.

Merry Christmas

God’s Gift

I want you to picture – yes, use your imagination – three gifts.

The first gift is small, about the size of a deck of cards.  What could be inside?  Maybe a piece of valuable jewelry.  Or maybe a gift card with a very large balance.  Or it could be nothing.  But it sure is a pretty package.

The second gift is a bit larger, about the size of a shoe box.  You would think that the bigger the package, the better the gift.  The wrapping is pretty and the bow just tops it off.  Do you wonder what could be inside?

The third gift is a tall skinny gift bag.   Does the shape give it away?  Not everything would fit in this gift bag.  A bag designed to hold – Let’s see what it holds.

Oh look!  It is a cup with packages of hot chocolate, tea and spiced cider mix.  Not quite what you expect to find in a bag designed to hold a wine bottle.

Too often we look at the wrapping – the outside – and make a judgment on what is inside.

“That must be a thug.  Or a gang member.  Or, heaven forbid, a motorcycle rider.  Look at those tattoos.  Why would anyone do that to their body?  Have they no self-respect?  My goodness, I do not want to have anything to do with that person.”

Unwrap the package.  Look inside.  That person with all sorts of strange ink might just be a youth minister.  Or a lawyer.  Or a doctor.  Or might be your next best friend.

“Really!  Look at that frown.  Did their mother never tell them their face would freeze that way?  They are always so grumpy.  My goodness, I do not want to have anything to do with that person.”

Unwrap the package.  Look inside.  Maybe life is hard for them.  Are they struggling with being a single parent?  Or maybe they are coping with an older, stubborn, unreasonable parent?  Maybe their spouse is in the military.  Or they do not have enough money to buy groceries.  Maybe their car broke down.  Maybe they need a smile.  Or someone to realize they are having a bad day.  Maybe they just need someone – only one person – to see past the frown and see the joy waiting to come out.

“A baby was born.  Just a baby.  Nothing special.  Babies are born every day.  Every second.  Around the world.  Babies are everywhere!  “

“So what is the big deal about one baby, born in a barn (or stable or cave), all those years ago?  He was a baby!  Have you seen all the pictures?  He looked like a baby.  Nothing special there.  He had all his toes and fingers.  Now either the artists ran out of time to paint a complete outfit or Mary had not been able to shop before she traveled to Bethlehem because that baby was not fully covered.  Yes, just a baby in a swaddling cloth with no fancy bows or ribbons.  Not exactly a gift to get excited about.”

Unwrap the package.  Look inside. 

But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.  Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba, Father.” So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child: and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.                  Galatians 4:4-7

What?  This normal looking baby is God’s Son?  A redeemer?  His Spirit is in our hearts?  No longer a slave?  God’s child?  God’s heir?

YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!!!

Well now, doesn’t that just take the cake?  This normal looking baby, with all his toes and fingers, born in a town long, long ago is so much more than he seemed. 

I am glad I unwrapped this gift and looked inside.

Thank you God for this most precious, valuable gift.

WRAPPING GIFTS

Today the wrapping begins!  I will set up a table.  Get the paper out of the closet.  Make sure I have plenty of tape and wrap each package.

It is not as much fun as when we had little ones.  I miss buying dolls.  And bears.  And trucks.  And toy dishes.  Shopping for adults lacks wonder.  Lacks surprise.  Cash or a gift card in an envelope just does not say Merry Christmas.  And a token under-the-tree gift or the usual “we get every year” does not bring excitement to the unwrapping process.

Or maybe I am in a rut.  Maybe I need to do away with my traditional under-the-tree gift for the adults.  (Calendars – hey, not giving away any surprises.  They know they will get a calendar.)  Maybe I need to say to the younger generation, “No cash this year.  No gift cards.”  Maybe I need to go shopping.  Maybe I need to make the gifts personal again.  Maybe I need to…….

“Mary, you are doing it again.”

“What am I doing again, God?”

“Sit down child.  This might take a bit of your time.”

“Mary, when your children and grandchildren were babies, they asked for toys.  And you gave them toys.  As they grew up, you wrapped their desires and placed them under the tree.  Now that they are adults or on the road to adulthood, their desires have changed.  Be it cash, a gift card or that annual calendar, you are fulfilling their desires.”

“But, I can see them using a “gift.”  Money is, well, money is just money.  It is every day.  Nothing special.”

“Let me try again.  Jesus was a baby.  A baby is just a baby.  An everyday happening.  Nothing special.  Except, this baby, this one baby, was the perfect gift.  I gave my children the gift they needed.”

“So, I am to give what they need not what makes me feel good?”

“Well done.  Now go put some love in each package and you will have a very Merry Christmas.”

~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~

Christmas can be very stressful.  We all have an image we try to live up to.  It can be how Christmas was when we were children.  It can be a scene from a movie.  It can be how the neighbors celebrate. 

Do not try to recreate your memories or make your home like a movie set or outdo the neighbors.  This year, give gifts purchased or made with love.  Bless other’s lives with your generosity.  Relax instead of trying to make each year bigger and better.  This year enjoy!!

MY BIRTHDAY

My birthday was almost a month ago but I want you to know I just plain – LOVE BIRTHDAYS!!

Growing up, I got to pick what we had for supper.  There was a cake especially for ME.  I received birthday gifts.  (And gifts were special because gifts were ONLY given on your birthday and Christmas.)  My daddy, a truck driver, tried to be home on our birthdays. 

Our two children never knew what to expect on their birthday.  I bought the cheapest birthday paper tablecloths I could find.  Then I would cut them up and plaster them all over the house.  Sometime I hid their gifts and they had to find them.  There was always cake and ice cream. 

What about hubby?  Well, Bill is a bit more subdued than I am so his special day usually consisted of his favorite meal, a pie and a gift that I knew would absolutely annoy him.  One year he told me not to buy him anything.  Well, that was not going to happen so I bought him two things.  And those two dresses fit me to a T.

Yes, I love birthdays!  A day to feel special.  A day to celebrate who I am.  Just a day ---

“Now, Mary, stop and think about what you just said,” the voice from on High suggested.

“Well, God,” I answered.  “I said I get a day to celebrate who I am.”

“Think again.  A day?  Just a day?”

As I pondered.  As I scrunched my face.  As I looked up.

“Want a hint?

I nodded.

“Look up Psalm 71.”

“Finished?  Now tell me where it says you are to only celebrate one day?”

“May I try again?” I asked in a quiet voice.

“Yes, child.  Try again.”

Yes, I love birthdays!  Every year I get a day to celebrate my birth.  Every day I get to celebrate who I am.

From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother’s womb.  I will ever praise you.  I have become a sign to many; you are my strong refuge.  My mouth is filled with your praise, declaring your splendor all day long.         Psalm 71:6-7

THE MISSING PIECE

My mother, bless her heart, gave me a few things I do not appreciate such as Restless Leg Syndrome and arthritis.  She also gave me a couple of things I do appreciate.  I inherited a love to travel and working jigsaw puzzles.

Half of one closet is stacked with puzzles.  They range from very old ones mother had to new ones I just could not resist.  There are ones that have 300 pieces.  500 pieces.  1,000 pieces.  Some are square.  Some rectangle.  Some round.  Some are shaped and finding the border pieces is a challenge.  Hubby never understands how I can work them.  To him they look like a mess, with no way of ever coming together into a picture.

Oh, but to me they are many pieces waiting to be assembled into one.  I look for a dot of red that finishes the dress on the little girl.  Or a bit of purple to finish the sunset.  Or that elusive piece that should be a breeze to find that somehow is not on the table.  And then the sigh of relief when the piece is spotted on the floor. 

One of my favorites.

Yup, I love to do puzzles.  UNLESS ----- Unless there is a piece missing.  To get all finished and find you are one piece short is just so frustrating!!!  To know the puzzle is not complete…..

My life is like a puzzle.  But I know I cannot put the pieces of my life puzzle together.  That job requires the Master Puzzle Builder.  That job requires God.

God finds the piece with the dot of red that fits right there in the corner.  God finds the piece with the soft purple color needed to surround my life with a sunset.  God wants my life puzzle to be complete.  And that is the reason my puzzle has a border made of His Love.  His Forgiveness.  His Mercy.  His Strength.  His Grace.  His Wisdom.  His Peace.  His Glory. 

God is the glue that holds my life puzzle together. 

And that is what I am most thankful for.

THANKSGIVING VS GIVING THANKS

Bet you are thinking, “There is no difference.”  But let’s be honest.  When we hear the word “Thanksgiving”, the Norman Rockwell painting comes to mind.  We see a family sitting around a table, a very large, perfectly cooked turkey, dressing (stuffing), smiles and the mother still wearing her apron. 

When we hear the word “Thanksgiving”, we think about having the day off work (except for the people in the kitchen working for hours to prepare a meal that will be consumed in ten minutes), taking a nap after eating that turkey, football games, a dog show, and the long drive home with tired children.  Somewhere in there, we might actually go around and have everyone tell something they are thankful for.  That is if we can get it in during half time or a commercial.

Thanksgiving:  The forth Thursday in November.

vs

Giving:  To make a present of

Thanks:  Expression of gratitude

When I read the meaning of the words giving and thanks, I wondered if I have been doing it wrong all these years.  Over the years I have made it about me.

• I am so thankful for indoor plumbing.
• I am so thankful for family.
• I am thankful for sunrises and sunsets.
• I am – I am – I am.  It was all about me. 

But now?

TO MAKE A PRESENT OF OUR EXPRESSION OF GRATITUDE

Psalm 100

Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.

Can you hear me Lord?  Is my voice rising to your heavenly realm?

Worship the LORD with gladness;

come before him with joyful songs.

Know that the LORD is God.

My soul is smiling.  Can you see it reflected in my eyes?  Lord, God, I come before you with a song so full of joy it cannot be contained.

It is he who made us, and we are his;

we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

You made me.  I am yours.  Shepherd, I rest in your pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving

and his courts with praise;

give thanks to him and praise his name.

My thanksgiving is so strong no gate can keep me out and your courts will echo my praises.

I will raise my hands as I give you thanks and praise your name.

For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;

his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Lord, as my grandmother prayed, so shall I pray.  Your faithfulness surrounded her and that faithfulness will surround my children and their children and their children.

AMEN.  AND AMEN.

Happy Giving Thanks Day!!!

A BATTLE

It seems appropriate that on a day to remember those that fought for our freedoms I write on another battle.

The battle for a soul. 

The son said to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you.  I am no longer worthy to be called your son.”

But the father said to his servants, “Quick!  Bring the best robe and put it on him.  Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet.  Bring the fattened calf and kill it.  Let’s have a feast and celebrate.  For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.”  So they began to celebrate.

^“My son,” the father said, “you are always with me, and everything I have is yours.  But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.”

Luke 15:21-24, 31-32

I have always had trouble with this parable.  I could only see it through the eyes of the “I have always been here” brother.  This week I have been taught to see this through the eyes of the father.  I have held a broken son.

This week has not been the best week of my life, but I am realizing it is not the worst.  And actually might just be in the top ten best weeks.  Through the tears.  The hurt.  Through the love. While watching a son, broken by an addiction, move from a hidden life to the hope that chains can be broken, I know why the father ran to meet his son.  I know why he celebrated. 

What I would like to know is why the Bible left out what came after the celebration.  You see, I celebrate because my – our – son can go from lost to found.  Can go from darkness to light.  But it will take work.  I am sure the father in the parable did not agree with nor condone the younger son’s actions.  But I am also sure that the father, with love, made sure his son received the help he needed to find a new and right direction.

Our family does not agree with nor condone the choices our son has made.  But our family will stand together as he begins the journey to become the man God created him to be.

Right now, he will suffer because of the choices he has made and he will do battle with his demons.  Right now, we will do battle for his soul.

Yes, our son is a prodigal. 

Oh, wait.  So am I. 

The Lord told Saul (later renamed Paul):  I am sending you to them to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.

Acts 26:17-18

We are all prodigals.  And we all have hope.  We can all turn from darkness to light.  We can all move from the power of Satan to God.  We can all receive forgiveness.  We all have a place!

And we all have a Father waiting with open arms to welcome us home and celebrate!

FROM THE PAGES OF A NOVEL

I love to read and often the words will draw a picture in my mind or on my heart.  Poor Bill!  When that happens, I say, “Listen to this.”  And then proceed to read to him.  It does not matter if he even listens.  I just want to hear the words and it feels silly to read out loud if no one is listening.

"The Wedding Chapel" by Rachel Hauck, gave me some things to think about.  Jack is one of the main characters and he has had a rough life.  He does not know what to do with emotions.  Or love.  Or letting go.

"parents?  That’s the crux of it right there.  Are you ready to give up being angry?  Because anytime you want to become a Gillingham, Jack, we’ll go down to the courthouse and make it all legal.”  

“I’m thirty years old, Sam.”

“I don’t care if you’re a hundred.  I’m telling you, I want you as my son.  Wouldn’t it be nice to know you are a son right before you become a father?”

Jack glanced at Sam, who nodded, then turned for the house.  “Take your time.”

He might have been gone, but his confession hung around the garage, drilling through Jack and tapping his tears.  “I want you as my son.”

“I want you as my son.”  Now that stopped Jack in his tracks because he did not know what to do with those words.  With those feelings.  How could anyone want him as a son?  He was not worthy.

Felling unworthy, Jack was in for another ride on the emotion roller coaster.  He was no good.  His life had been no good.  And then Jack heard:

"When you walked in, I knew you were the answer to our prayer.”

An answer to prayer.  Such a claim caused Jack to torque inside, messed with his right to be angry, to play the victim.  Because if the God of all looked after him, even used him to bless someone"

Now Jack was in trouble.  The walls he had built were starting to crumble.  The anger was starting to melt.  Jack questioned how he could be the answer to anyone’s prayer.  How could God use him?  If God was going to use him, what was he to do with the past?

"you have everything you need to heal from such a deep hurt, but you choose to keep walking around wounded.

As I read this book, I could see a broken man.  Broken by his father.  Dragging his hurt and bitterness into adulthood.  And he did not know what to do with kindness and love.  He did not understand how he could be the answer to a prayer.  He did not know how to heal.

Did Jack finally get it?  Of course!  It is a novel and readers want a happy ending.  But is a novel like real life?  Sometimes, no.  Sometimes, yes. 

This time?  The struggle part is very much like real life.  Is very much like our faith.

God wants us.  He tells us, over and over and over, that He loves us and wants us as His child.  But we struggle to understand that.  How can God love someone this broken and bitter and hurt?  And like Jack, we struggle with God telling us, “I want you.”

God uses us.  Now that really messes with our minds.  We wonder how God can use and believe in us when all we do is stay mad about what happened yesterday.  Or last week.  Or 30, 40 or 50 years ago.  Use me?  Me?  As a blessing to someone else.  We ask, “God, can you use me with all my problems and questions and …..?”  And, if you listen, you will hear God softly whisper, “Yes, child.  You!  I will use you.”

God heals us.  Healing is offered.  Healing is waiting to slip right into your heart.  Into your soul.  Into your mind.  The character in a book – just words on a page – changes in a few short paragraphs. Accepting healing in real life is not so easy.  Well, it is easy but we make it difficult.  God makes it easy.  Here is healing.  Take it.  Free!  We make it hard.  We do not want to give up being the victim.  We do not want to give up being angry.  Or hurt.  That would mean we would have to change.  And it is easier to choose to keep walking around wounded.

God wants you!     God will use you!     God can heal you!

How do you want your story to end?  

SINGING BACKUP

Now, anyone who has ever sat beside me in church knows I cannot sing.  And just think about my poor hubby who has no choice but to sit beside me.  (Although I do notice he stands at arm’s length when holding his side of the hymnal.) 

My one sister asked me, “Why do we sound alike when we talk but you cannot sing?”  My own children (bless their hearts) once told me, “Yes, mom, the minister said sing out, but he did not mean you.”  Family can be brutally honest. 

Although that is the reputation I have locally, it is another story in the larger world of music.  What most people do not know is that I have sung backup with many famous artists.  No.  Really, I have but I will not give you my entire resume.  Neil Diamond and the Statler Brothers allowed me to join in on more than one occasion.  I am waiting to hear back from Matthew West and Garth Brooks.  Hopefully, they will also be repeat performances.  And tomorrow night I am singing backup for Casting Crowns!

Are you wondering how those closest to me cannot appreciate my hidden musical talent?  It is not that they cannot appreciate me.  It is the fact that the musical greats I have backed up ---- Well, they cannot hear me.  I am sure Garth Brooks was not aware of my joining in when I was in the first row of the lower section of a big venue.  And, although he was standing in the aisle right beside my chair, Matthew West must have heard about my musical un-ability because he did not offer me the mic while he sang “Hello My Name Is.”

I know who these people are but they do not know me. The “knowing” must be on both ends to have a real relationship.

I do not sing back-up for Jesus from the front row of the lower balcony.  I sing back-up for Jesus from my heart.  From my soul.  I want His ears to hear the joy with which I sing.

I want to have a real relationship with Jesus.  I do not want him to only know me because I sat in a row or section at a service or bought a ticket.  I want him to know because He has heard my voice when I prayed and I have felt His companionship in my soul.

I want a real relationship with Jesus.  I want to know him through His words.  I want to see Him in the glory of a sunrise and hear Him in the laughter of a baby.  And I want Him to know me through my tears and my joys.

I want a real relationship with Jesus, the Shepherd.  I want to know the Shepherd’s voice so I can follow Him.  I want the Shepherd to know me so I will not be lost.

He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.

…his sheep follow him because they know his voice.

I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me

– just as the Father knows me and I know the Father –

and I lay down my life for the sheep.

John 10: parts of verses 3-4 and verses 14-15

I do not just want to “know” Jesus.  I want a real relationship with Jesus!!!!!!!