FROM MY JOURNAL – PART 2

Sometimes I am focused as soon as I enter the church.  Other times not so much.

February 16, 2010

My mind doesn’t want to focus and that makes my ears hard of hearing and my heart scattered instead of whole.  Almost always, as soon as I open my Bible I feel led to a “topic” to pray for.  Then I find scriptures.  And it is as if I am the only in the church.  Today I brought the world into the sanctuary with me.  As I wrote I remembered this is Ash Wednesday week.  Now I know.  All it took was allowing God to take my thoughts.

Jesus, what did it feel like?  Did you want to take a 2 X 4 to the disciples?  Did you worry that there was not enough time left?  Were you scared?  Did you look at your mother, at your friends, at the disciples, at the world differently?  Burning into your mind the face of each?  Yes, I know you are human and Holy, but what was the human feeling?  Did food taste sweeter because you knew that soon you would no longer need to eat or drink?  Did you make a list of everything you wanted to tell the disciples?  Did your prayers change?  Did you feel the presence of your Father surrounding you as you prepared to offer the human body?  Did you feel the pressure on your shoulders as you tried to make sure the disciples were ready?  Oh, so many questions and when we meet face-to-face, there will be no questions.  In an instant, we will understand.

Lord Jesus, as you prepared so let us prepare for Easter.  Let our Spirit focus on the promise of the Resurrection and Eternal Life.  Amen

As I look back at this entry, I realize how often I still do this.  I go to pray but do not focus.  I allow the laundry, the noise, my plans and ?? to disrupt my prayer time. 

March 23, 2010

People look at a church and see one of two things.  Either they see it as a place that is happy, caring and full of love or they see a place that is always struggling, fighting and full of sinners.  Most churches are a combination of both.  The church I was attending was having a time of struggles.

Scriptures on guidance:  Psalm 25:5, Psalm 48:14, Psalm 73:24 and 1 Corinthians 14:12

This is from my prospective and my frustrations:

Lord, today I do not know where to start.  We need your guidance.  This church is at a crossroads.  The congregation has refused to change.  That refusal is killing the Spirit of the church.  The “not in my church” shuts doors, hardens hearts and stops faith.  Thou shalt not:  change the time of the service I want.  Allow praise hymns.  Feel comfortable going to the altar or raising your hands.  Come in jeans.  Look different.

At the meeting tonight I ask for guidance.  Actually, I ask for you to guide my thoughts and my words.

Prayer for our church:  (Note:  I printed the following off and passed it out before the meeting.)

To the God of all heaven and earth, Guide this church in your truth and teach us, as only you can.  You are our savior and our hope abides in you 24/7.  You are our God for ever and ever.  We ask you to be our guide to the end of time.

Guide this meeting.  Let us listen to your counsel.  Let us always be in your glory.  Let each person build up the church.  Let this church be so built on your broad love that it gains and does not die.  Amen.

I hope by now you are realizing prayers cannot be set words.  Our prayers change as we grow in faith, become involved in the life of the church and life throws us a curve ball.  God always loves to hear prayers of praise.  He loves it when we just sit quietly and thrill at the wonder of this world he created.  But he is there when we are having problems.  When the church is having problems.  He is ready, willing and able to guide us through – THROUGH – those problems. 

October 12, 2010

He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like on being taught.

Isaiah 50: part of verse 4

But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for it is light that makes everything visible.  This is why it is said: “Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”  Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise.

Ephesians 5:13-15

WAKE UP!!  LISTEN!!  LIVE WISE!!

Good morning, waking up with God.  Wow.  Now that is something I can picture.  God gently whispering in my ear, “Mary.  Mary, it is time to get up.  It is time to wake up.  Mary, can you hear me?  Are your ears awake?”

Then God would say, “Today I want you to really listen.  And look, because today you have much to learn.  With every step you take today there will be a light shining.  That light will shine so everything – EVERYTHING – will be visible.  Today, Mary, I want you to live, not as a dead spirit just going through your day, but with the light of Christ shining on you.  Mary, today be wise.  Wake up.  Listen.  Learn.  Be wise.  Walk in the light of Christ.”

“Now go have your coffee.”

A silly idea?  NO!  I can also picture God’s greeting to the church. 

I can picture a light – at first soft and gentle – rising from behind the organ pipes.  Then spreading around the outside walls.  Always getting brighter.  The light then coming up the aisle, bathing every pew in light until the light reaches the altar.  At this point, every eye would be focused on the source of the light.  Hearts would be beating faster.  There would be so much energy, in the room, that it would be visible.  The only sound would be the sound of light moving.  Moving until the sanctuary was filled with light.

Then all ears would hear, “WAKE UP CHURCH!  WAKE UP!”

“You sit in the pews as if you were dead.  You have allowed the light of Christ to enter your heads but have built a wall around your heart.  You come to MY church to – to what?  Why are you here?  Are your ears open?  Did you wake up this morning saying, ‘Teach me.’?

I am THE SOVEREIGN LORD and I WILL sustain you, but you have to be awake.  WAKE UP!!”

“Let the light into your life, into MY church.  Let the light make everything visible.  Let the light of Christ shine on you and make you wise.  Why did you come to MY church this morning?  To live as if you were already dead?  OR To live in the light of Christ.  Will you carry MY light in your heart?  OR  Will you just let the light fade away?”

And in a time we cannot measure, God’s light would be gone.

How would you react?  How would the church react? 

Lord, send your light into our hearts.  Lord, make your light visible to others through us.  AMEN

As I read these, I realized the last one holds the answer to the first two.  When I allow other things to disrupt my prayers and when we allow things to disrupt God’s church, we need to

WAKE UP!!  LISTEN!!  LIVE WISE!!

What prayers will I find for Part 3?  Come back next week to find out.

FROM MY JOURNALS – PART 1

I came across my prayer journals, from July 2009 to January 2013, and I realized two things.  I have to get back to writing in a journal.  My concentration is so much better when I write.  And second my prayers were all over the place depending on my mood and life. 

Seven prayer warriors each took a day to pray for our church, the congregation, the world or whatever was on our heart.  My day was Tuesday, so almost every Tuesday morning I sat in the sanctuary and wrote.  There is something very special about being alone in the sanctuary.  Sometimes the church was very quiet because I got there early or it was very noisy with pre-school, staff and members.

As I review the journals, I would like to share some of the entries. 

July 21, 2009

Scriptures on a strong foundation:  Ephesians 2:19-22, 2 Timothy 2:19 and 1 Peter 5:10

Sometimes a prayer begins out of nowhere.  Sometimes a prayer comes out of tragedy.  The previous Saturday had been hard for our church and our community.  A young lady was to be married that Saturday.  Her fiancé died Friday night.  The decorations were removed and joy turned into grief.  On that Saturday, two sisters were having fun.  Until their four wheelers collided.  Fun turned into fear.  A church and a community prayed.  As I wrote about this, I realized how important a strong foundation is when tragedy knocks us to the floor.

Thank you for the foundation of this church.  Sometimes we feel there is no foundation, that we are adrift.  Then a ‘Saturday’ happens and we see and feel the solid footing we have – a Unity of Spirit. 

Now let us build on this foundation.  Let our cornerstone be Jesus.  Let our walls be Your Word.  Let our strength be the Cross.  Let the Holy Spirit be strong in all.

Take all that is in my heart and know my prayers are honest and sincere.  Amen

July 28, 2009

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”  When he had placed his hands on them, he went on from there.

Matthew 19:14-15

The disciples did not understand the importance of children.  Ahh, but Jesus did!

Lord, what a responsibility you have entrusted us with – YOUR CHILDREN.  You have blessed each child.  I can see you putting your hands on them.  A soft, loving look in your eyes.  A gentle, peace giving touch.  And I can see the children looking into your face and knowing!  Knowing – that is what I pray for our children.  Knowing!  Knowing you are ALWAYS there.  Knowing your peace, love, comfort.  Knowing your strength.  Your wisdom.  Your story.  Let them learn from the way you lived.  Let them learn your ways.  Let them grow in faith as they grow in body.  Let them hold your hand securely in theirs as they move into becoming adults.  Amen

September 15, 2009

Scriptures on Forgiveness:  Nehemiah 9:17, Psalm 103:1-4 and Ephesians 1:7

Be kind and compassionate to one another forgiving each other

just as in Christ God forgave you.

Ephesians 4: 32

Forgiveness is a rough one.  It is something we want, something we need.  And it is something we should give.  Forgiven – what a beautiful word.  What a gift.  What peace it brings.  How hard it can be to accept because with the accepting comes the realization of what it cost God – His Son – and what it cost Jesus – His Blood.

I offered a prayer for the church:  God let all in this church feel the wonderful clean feeling that comes from asking for and receiving forgiveness.  Then I offered a personal prayer.

My dear Lord, What emotions this brings.  Why would you do this for me?  I am no one special.  I am a sinner.  And yet you have taken me – me – you have taken me from the pit and forgiven ALL my sins.  Every one gone.  When you look at me, you see me clean.  Your beloved daughter.  And upon my head you have placed a crown.  And you placed it there with your love and compassion.  And someday, when this life ends, I will have an eternal body, healed with all disease left behind.  Praise the Lord, O my soul.  I will not forget your benefits.  Amen

November 17, 2009

(Abraham) …..obeyed me.     Genesis 22:18

Even the winds and the waves obey him (Jesus).     Matthew 8:27

…..his (Jesus’) reverent submission.     Hebrews 5:7

Obedience – what a hard word.  Obey – what a short word.  Reverent submission – what beautiful words!!  I prayed about obedience but then thought about Reverent Obedience.

Reverent Obedience – What a difference there would be between obedience and reverent obedience.

The body would be relaxed.  No tension in the shoulders.  Hands quiet, not clasped in a fist.  The head would either be humbly bowed or looking towards the heavens in anticipation.  Reverent obedience would include ears that could hear whispered instructions and eyes that are able to see clearly.  The heart would be beating in time with the Master’s.  Reverent obedience would require feet eager to follow and a mind focused on serving.

Reverent obedience is freely, willingly and totally saying yes to the Master.  To the Alpha and Omega.  To the Creator.  To the One True God.

Although the first prayer on a strong foundation came from grief and fear, the others on children, forgiveness and obedience are common to all Christians.  Have you prayed for the children?  Thanked God for forgiveness?  Been reluctantly obedient or have you been reverently obedient?

FEBRUARY

February – yuck!  This has to be the least favorite of the months.  As I write this, the sun is shining and it is unusual February weather.  Although some do not agree, I miss the snow and cold.  It gave me a reason to stay inside, read a book and watch the snow blow.  When the sun shines, everyone thinks they need to be doing something.  Except for Mardi Gras, February has no celebrations.  And when you live in Indiana, Mardi Gras is only something on the evening news. 

A celebration is what February needs.  Something bigger than watching a groundhog or buying a card.  Something with a wow factor.  We need a CELEBRATION!

Oh, silly me.  SUNDAY!!  February has four Sundays so has four celebrations.  The problem is we forget to celebrate on Sunday. 

Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.

Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.

Know that the LORD is God.

It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.

For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.

PSALM 100

Shout – Joy – Gladness – Thanks giving - Praise

THIS IS WHAT GOING TO CHURCH SHOULD LOOK LIKE

THIS IS WHAT GOING TO CHURCH SHOULD FEEL LIKE.

Sunday is almost here.  Are you ready?

Sunday morning wake up.

Have that cup of coffee.

Get dressed.

Put on your joy.

Throw open the doors to the church.

And CELEBRATE!

PS.  But I am still glad February is almost over.

CONVERSATION

Now picture this:  I am sitting at my desk.  With my iPad on the desk.  Using the computer, I am “finger talking” with a Facebook friend in England.  Then the iPad sounds off.  It is our son.  So I “finger talk” with him also. 

Now how cool is that?  Son is only 20 miles away but England is over the pond and I am having a conversation with both of them at the same time.  Doesn’t that just beat all?

Conversation: 1. an informal talk involving two people or a small group of people,  2. oral exchange of sentiments, observations, opinions, or ideas,  3. an exchange similar to conversation

Now anyone that knows me will attest to my ability to have a conversation.  I strike up conversations with strangers while standing in a line, riding in an elevator or eating in a restaurant.  Longer conversations take place over a cup of coffee.  Really long exchanges of ideas can last for hours at our discussion group.  My hubby will tell you I am very proficient in having conversations with him where he never utters a word.

“Mary.”

“Yes, God.”

“So you talk to strangers, friends and your husband?”

“Yes, God.”

“What about me, Mary?  When was the last time you spoke to me?”

“What?  I talked to you this morning as I was getting out of bed.”

“Yes, but that did not last long because you … well you were in a hurry to get to the little room.”

“I know.  I drank coffee last night… Hey, you are the one who created me and you know how coffee…...”

“Mary, you are missing the point.  You said you talked to strangers.  You have longer conversations over coffee and, if I remember right, that one discussion group lasted for three and a half hours.  I can also have compassion for Bill because many of our conversations are very one sided.  My question is this:  have you ever talked to me for three and a half hours?”

“No.  But..Well..Honestly?  You expect me to talk to you for that long?  And besides, I was not the only one talking at the discussion group!”

“Mary, you are not supposed to be the only one talking when we are having a conversation either.”

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Oh, drat.  Hate it when God does that, but He does have a very good point.  It seems I have time to have real live conversations, “finger talk” conversations and back and forth conversations on Facebook.  Why is it so hard to set time to talk with God?

After all, as busy as Jesus was he sure found time.  He went to the mountainside (Luke 6:12), he went alone (Matthew 14:23), he took Peter, John and James with him (Luke 9:28-29) and he prayed that if it was God’s will that the cup be taken from him (Luke 22:40-42).

Jesus ask God to give his disciples the Spirit of truth (John 14:16-17) and he prayed them right into God’s hands.  Then Jesus prayed for all who will believe in him through the messages they hear (John 17:6-9). 

My favorite image is from Mark 1:35-38.  Jesus’ alarm clock must not have a snooze button, because he even got up very early, while it was still dark, quietly slipped out of the house so as not to wake the disciples and found a place where he could be alone. 

Old Testament to New Testament, Genesis 1:1 through Revelation 22:21, there is just a whole lot of praying going on.  Men.  Women.  Jews.  Gentiles.  Children.  Old.  Young. Jesus.  Disciples.  You would think God would enjoy some peace and quiet.  But no!  There are 108 verses on prayer, plus those on praise, shout, proclaim and witness.  Although there are a number of instructions on what we are not to do with our voice, it seems God rather enjoys hearing from us.

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“God?”

“Yes, Mary.”

“I have been thinking about our earlier discussion and wondered if you have a minute.”

“My child, I always have time.  My clock not only lacks a snooze button, it does not even have hands on it.”

“Well, I have this idea but I want to kick it around a bit.  Make sure it has your stamp of approval.  Yes, I know, that means I will have to wait and listen, not just talk.  And by the way, the sunrise this morning…………………….”

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