YOUR SOUL IS SAFE

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: PSALM 62:5-8

Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.

YOUR SOUL IS SAFE

The following is a quote from Jan Karon's book, Home to Holly Springs. A man was explaining, to Father Timothy, why he wrote a poem.

"I wrote it while Mama was praying; asking God what he wanted her to do about contacting you. Mama was sitting with her back to the window that looks out to the garden. She had her Bible open on her lap, but she was reciting the words from memory, as she often does. I happened to look up from my book and saw something so remarkable that the breath went out of me like a shot.

I saw my mother's soul."

I do not know that I have ever seen another's soul. I have seen my Grandma read her Bible. I can still see her. Her whole being absorbing each word she read. I can still see those hands. Gently holding her Bible. Did I see her soul?

I have seen fathers walking with their child. Holding their hand. Keeping them safe. Did I see the father's soul?

I have seen mothers sitting beside the bed of a child. Just watching the child sleep. Did I see the mother's soul?

I have seen one person praying for another. Did I see their soul?

Have I ever seen a person and had the "breath go out of me like a shot?"

Know what? It doesn't matter. It does not matter if I see another's soul. It only matters that God sees your soul. "Find rest, O my soul, in God" --

When life throws you curves. When life throws you wonders. When life throws you upheavals. When life throws you a calm day. When any of these happen, God is there. He is your rock, salvation and fortress.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Have you seen another's soul? Have you entrusted your soul to God?

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

LET US PRAY

Rejoice. Rejoice. O Lord in you I rejoice. You are the keeper of my soul. You are my rock. My salvation. My fortress. I trust you at all times. When my life is hectic. When my life is peaceful. When I can see the wonders of your world. When I can only see a small corner of my life. No matter what is going on in my life, I will not be shaken. My soul finds rest in you. Amen

BAPTISM

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: 1 PETER 3:21-22

and this water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also - not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God. It saves you by the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who has gone into heaven and is at God's right hand -- with angels, authorities and powers in submission to him.

BAPTISM

I once wrote that with grandchildren, I would never run out of stories. How true!! I want to tell you about a conversation between our daughter and her five-year-old son.

Terri: "What did you do while you were outside?"

Timothy: "I baptized Jamie so she would go to heaven." (Jamie is a dog.)

Terri: "How did you baptize Jamie?"

Timothy: "I put her in a bucket of water."

Terri: "Did you take her out of the bucket?"

Timothy: "Yes."

And this is how you know Terri is a seasoned mother of four boys. Without missing a beat, this was her reply.

Terri: "Okay, go wash your hands for lunch."

I am sure that with son number one, Terri would have worried that the dog might have drowned. That Matthew might have been bitten trying to put that poor dog under the water. Matthew or the dog might have gotten sick because it really is not warm enough yet to be playing in the water. And she would have washed Matthew's hands to make sure they were really clean, not just dried off. (After all, those hands just came out of water. Timothy believes you should only wash one hand if the other hand is not dirty. Yes, he can wash one hand without getting the other one wet!)

Where is all this going? We learn from the children. Jesus said we are to "receive the kingdom of God like a little child." Timothy knew being baptized was important.

I do not remember my baptism as being a "big deal." It was part of the Confirmation Class I took along with the rest of the kids my age. Just something we did. We were baptized and joined the church.

Baptism should be a big deal and I am not talking about the 'sprinkle, pour or dunked' debate. Or the 'at birth or older' debate. I am talking about true baptism.

Baptism of your soul.

Galatians 3:26-29 -- You are all sons of God, through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

Baptism of your soul is when you know you ARE a son or daughter of God. When you know you ARE clothed with Christ. When you know you ARE one in Christ Jesus. When you know you DO belong to God and ARE heir to all the promises.

That, my sisters and brothers, makes baptism a big deal.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Have you been baptized? Do you remember your baptism? Would you like to be baptized again or renew your baptismal vows? If you have never been baptized, are you ready to take that step? Your minister would be thrilled to help you with any of your questions or decisions.

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

LET US PRAY

Dear Lord and Savior, Baptism - When I close my eyes and think of that word, I see the Spirit descending on Your Son like a dove, as he was baptized. I hear you proclaim, "You are my son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased." That is what I want my baptism to be. I want it to be a time of repentance. A time when my sins are washed clean. I want my baptism to be a time when I welcome the Holy Spirit. A time when I take with open hands all the promises of your word. I want my baptism to be a time when all the angels, authorities and powers hear you say to me, "You are mine, whom I love. With you I am well pleased." In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen

I READ IT IN A BOOK

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: MATTHEW 26:39

Yet not as I will, but as you will.

I READ IT IN A BOOK

I know I have talked about Jan Karon's Mitford Series before, but one of the things I have been doing, while I am confined, is to read these books again. For the third time!! It is like visiting old friends. The Mitford Series is about Father Timothy, an Evangelical minister. At age 60+, Father Timothy meets the love of his life, Cynthia.

This time, I noticed some points I had missed. (The prayers in bold are mine.)

Father Timothy told Cynthia he kept trying to get it right. He had been trying to do this since he was a boy because he had never been able to please his father. So, here he was, a minister. A friend to many. And still trying to get it right. Know what Cynthia told him? She said, "Only God has to get it exactly right."

Lord, let me trust in you to get it right. Amen

One day, Father Timothy was driving. Just enjoying the day. Thanking God. Then he had a thought -- Suppose for a moment that God began taking from us the many things for which we have failed to give thanks. What would be left?

Lord, let me never forget to be thankful. Thankful for everything from each breath I take to the smallest grain of sand on the beach. Amen.

One day Father Timothy saw how happy Cynthia was and asked, "What are you celebrating?"

Cynthia replied, "Being alive. We breathe, we run around in our underwear, we go to the store, we dig up the tulip bulbs or plan to, we make soup and pay the electric bill, and we never stop to think - we're alive! This is a gift!"

Lord, thank you for the gift of life. Amen

Buck came to the house one day. He stood in the doorway as in a trance, taking in the Christmas tree ablaze with tiny lights and the train running around its base. Suddenly the rector saw the room with new eyes. He had been passing in and out of this room for days, scarcely noticing, enjoying it with his head instead of his heart.

Lord, let me walk through life, seeing each day with new eyes. Let me never just walk through this life you have given me. Amen.

Whenever Father Timothy or Cynthia had to make a decision. Whenever they needed direction. Whenever they needed to turn it all over to God, they prayed the prayer that never fails: Thy will be done.

Thy will be done. Amen

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

What book have you read that inspired you? Do you have books that you read twice? Three times? Why?

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

LET US PRAY

My dear Lord, I do trust you to get it right. I have to because it is for sure that - on my own - I never will. I keep messing up. I try and try, but there is always something I leave undone. Something I don't undersatand. That is why I trust you. Trust you to get it right. I am also thankful. Thankful for my hands, my eyes, my feet. Thankful for the air I breathe and the stars and the moon and the sun. Thankful for trees and books and aardvarks. Thankful for laughter. Thankful for the gift of life. Let me see my life with my heart. With new vision. Let me see the little things. Clean laundry. A glass of water. A sunset. Let me see life in all of its brilliance and wonder. And as I go through my life and face decisions, let me always turn to you and, with faith that you will get it right, say, "Thy will be done." Amen

MOTHERS

TODAYS SCRIPTURES:

For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. Psalm 139:13

but we were gentle among you, like a mother caring for her little children. 1 Thessalonians 2:7

MOTHERS

What do you picture when you hear the word Mother? Depending on your age, the person would be wearing a dress, slacks, jeans or shorts. Her hair would be long. Short. Somewhere in-between. The hair might be gray, blond, brown, red, black or orange. And size? Mothers come in sizes 2, 4, 6, 8 and 30. They are 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 and 100+. Some are still in their teens. No two mothers are alike. Some smile and laugh easily. Some are serious. And, let's be honest, some are good mothers and some are not. Just like so many things in life, we do not get to pick our mother. And sometimes, other women add more to our lives than our own mother does.

THE MOTHERS IN MY LIFE -- AND THEIR HANDS

My Grandmother -- My maternal grandmother lived with us in the winter because we had a furnace and indoor plumbing. Grandma shared a bedroom with my sister and me. I can still see her doing stretches and she could bend over and touch the palms of her hands to the floor. I can see grandma's hands as she stirred mush. She made good mush! I can see her hands crocheting. Mainly, I can see her hands holding the Bible. She held the Bible with great reverence.

My Other Mother Lois -- I work auctions and I called the lady that provided the lunch wagon mom. She listened when I needed to talk and she allowed me to cry. She listened when I told stories of our family. She gave me hugs. She filled a spot in my heart that needed to be filled. Mainly, I see Lois serving hot dogs and pie. Her hands busy. Her hands feeding people. Her hands serving others.

Spiritual Mothers -- Spiritual mothers can be any age. Spiritual mothers are teaching me to pray. I see their hands folded in prayer. Cathie is one of my spiritual mothers. Spiritual mothers are teaching me to study. I see their hands holding a Bible in one hand and a study guide in the other. Gracie is one of my spiritual mothers. Spiritual mothers are teaching me how to serve as Jesus served. I see their hands preparing meals for funeral dinners, making prayer shawls, serving communion and holding a baby while a mother can attend the worship service. Margaret and Anna are two of my spiritual mothers.

My Mother -- I saved mother until last. As I have grown, in years and faith, I love my mother. I cannot say that was always the case. Because of years and having children of my own, I understand mother a little better. Because of faith, I can see the things mother did for me and understand mother loved me, as she knew how. I see mother's hands sewing a special red birthday dress. I see mother's hands making a cup of hot chocolate for me when she knew I would be cold coming home from a football game. I see mother's hands finally holding a Bible. I see mother's hand gently, for the first time in my life, touching my cheek, in a soft caress, just days before that same hand took the hand of Jesus. I see mother's hands, waiting to, once again, gently touch my cheek.

So many women have touched my life. Mother. Grandmother. My other mom. Spiritual mothers. I am eternally grateful for each woman that has helped me learn. Grow. Each has been put in place by a loving God to serve as an example.

QUESTION OF THE DAY

Can you name the women who have influenced your life?

Mother's Day can be very hard when you do not or did not have a good relationship with your mother. If this is the case, try to place in your heart the image of one person that encouraged you. That taught you what love should be.

LET US PRAY

Because each of us has such a different relationship with our mother, I am asking you to say your own prayer today. If your relationship with your mother and other women in your life is good, praise God for blessing you. If your relationship with your mother is not quite so good, ask God to give you insight that you might find common ground or even just one thing for which you can give thanks. That is a place for you to start. Also look at your life and thank God for the other women who have taught you. Encouraged you. If your mother is now with God, have a talk with her.

RAIN, RAIN, GO AWAY

TODAYS SCRIPTURE:

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

RAIN, RAIN, GO AWAY

Rain, Rain, Go away -- Come again another day.

That is the chant of everyone in our area. Fields sit waiting to be planted. Fertilizer is ready to serve its purpose. Anhydrous is getting claustrophobic in the tanks. Farmers are getting extremely anxious. Farm wives are wondering what to do with all the bread and supplies they had ready for those meals-in-the-field.

To say we are having a bit of a wet spring is an understatement. And people are getting on edge. Those farmers want to get in the fields. They want to get the corn and beans planted. They want -- They want to do what they were born to do: Farm.

Sometimes we think our work is the most important thing we do. Our work is who we are. But is it?

Have you heard of My Utmost for His Highest? This book of daily devotionals was prepared from writings of Oswald Chambers. I read this book in 2006, 2007 and 2008. I am working on 2009. I have underlined. I have made notes. Many times, I have put questions marks because I do not understand. When I started this writing, I was not sure where it was going. To be honest, I don't usually know where my writings are going. They just seem to have a mind of their own. But, as I wrote, "But is it?" I remembered something I had read.

December 18: The idea is not that we do work for God, but that we are so loyal to Him that He can do His work through us -- "I reckon on you for extreme service, with no complaining on your part and no explanation on Mine." God wants to use us as He used His own Son.

Sometimes we think our work is the most important thing we do. Our work is who we are. But is it? The answer is yes, if we are allowing God to do His work through us.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Are you allowing God's work to flow through you?

Do you have a prayer you would like to share with others? Or would you like to tell how God is using you? If so, leave a comment.

PRAYER

Hello God, I am ready. Ready to fulfill the purpose you have for my life. The exciting part is that you want to use me. The scary part is that I am not always sure I can do your bidding. Sometimes I am held back by what I want to do. Or what others think I should do. Or -- oh so many things pull me one direction or another. Please show me the way I should be going. Show me the work you have planned for me. The work you have equipped me to do. Lord, I do love you and I am ready to serve. Amen

HELLO

Greetings,

I am back at the computer. AMEN. Do you know how little there is to watch on TV? And when you have taken pain medication, you get really sleepy when you read. And even with that extra padding, my backside is getting tired of being sat on.

Bill has been the best nurse ever and YES I have done exactly what I was told to do. Stitches came out yesterday (the 27th) and the pins come out of my toes May 12. I can walk around more but still have to be very careful not to hit those things sticking out the end of my toes. I am walking in funny shoes that make me walk on my heels and using a walker for balance. I have developed a new level of respect for those that use a walker all the time. There is a knack to using a walker that I have not perfected.

I will post a new blog this Friday, May 1. Can you believe May already?

THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR PRAYERS!!

Celebrate the day, Mary

Good morning!! My mom asked me to post an update since she is recuperating from her surgery. She is doing wonderful and being a good girl and following the Doctor's orders. We are praising God daily that her pain is going away and that she had no complications during the procedure.

Hopefully she will be back to her blogging self soon. Until then, I hope you enjoy re-reading some of her older posts.

Her loving daughter---Terri

Greetings

I am posting this in case I can not get to the computer this Friday, April 17.  I am having my feet operated on today and am not sure when I will be able to wobble to the computer.

Please check back Friday, the 17, and if there is not a new post, check the 24th.  I am sure by then I will be a bit more mobile.

While I am recuperating, please celebrate each day because each day is a gift. ---- Mary

AT ANY GIVEN MOMENT

TODAYS SCRIPTURES:

Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." When he had said this, he breathed his last. Luke 23:46

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." Revelation 21:3-4

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

AT ANY GIVEN MOMENT

I stood by the door watching as they wheeled the gurney into the house across the street. The EMS had been called and now I knew the outcome of that call. In the kitchen, Bill was getting ready to eat his salad as lunch was finishing on the stove. Our son was at work. Our daughter at home. One granddaughter was in New York, with her school's band. Other grandsons were in school. "At any given moment" came to my mind.

"At any given moment" a new life begins and another life ends. "At any given moment" one family learns about instantaneous love and another the first stab of grief.

"At any given moment" friends share a joke and laugh uncontrollably. Or young girls sneak a glance at the good-looking guy walking by. Or boys flex their muscles to show off. Or someone is sitting alone, wishing they were part of a group.

"At any given moment" someone is waking and someone else is going to sleep. One team is winning and one is losing. One person is bowing their head in prayer and another is raising a clinched fist towards heaven.

"At any given moment" - that is the thought that popped into my mind. It was as if, for just a second, I could see this world as God sees it. Every extreme. Every emotion. Every tear. Every smile. Every birth. Every death.

"At any given moment" -- and at every moment. Every beat of the heart. Every breath that is taken. "At every given moment" -- God cares.

"For God so loved the world." "At every given moment." Are you ready for the moment Jesus returns?

QUESTION OF THE DAY 

Are you ready?

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My prayer for each of you is that you have a faith strong enough to get you through each day. A faith that allows you to turn to the cross for forgiveness. A faith that shouts "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit." And that you shout this every day!!! Because when we commit our lives, our spirit to God, we are ready for any given moment that comes our way.

Please use this as a beginning of your prayer. Finish in your own words, words from your heart. Think about this and then tell Jesus how you feel. What you believe.

LET US PRAY

Lord Jesus, I do believe you are the Son of God. I believe you gave your life willingly for my sins. When I confess my sins, I believe they are forgiven. I believe … Amen

"MOTHER, DO YOU KNOW HOW TO READ A MAP?"

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: EXODUS 23:20

"See, I am sending an angel ahead of you to guard you along the way and to bring you to the place I have prepared."

"MOTHER, DO YOU KNOW HOW TO READ A MAP?"

I am not sure what to write. So much has happened in the last couple of weeks. Do I tell you about the amazing flowers in Hawaii? Do I tell you about a VERY long flight? Do I tell you that Terri thinks I tried to kill her? Do I tell you that I am glad to be home? Do I --

Oh, you want to know about me trying to kill Terri? It is not true!!!!!! She is just saying that, but I will tell you my side. She can leave a message with her side, if she chooses.

We were on Maui and decided to go for a drive. With Terri driving, we turned left out of the hotel. The map showed a nice wide road. And it was. A nice four lane. Then a nice two lane. The ocean - all blue, with waves and sun - on one side and rolling hills on the other. A very good road. I looked at the map and saw that this road went all the way around the west side of the island and ended up on the north side. I did see there was one stretch that was marked as steep and narrow, but that was a long way off. On the north side of the island and we were safe on the southwest side. Nothing to fear.

There was one slight problem with my logic. I am used to reading a map (And yes, Terri, I do know how to read a map, even if you doubt my skills.), but I am used to reading a map for big areas, like the whole state of Indiana. Or Alaska. Or Montana. I am used to an inch representing 50 miles. Or even 100 miles. I sorta miscalculated. I failed to realize I was looking at a large map for a small island. And there were no towns or mileposts to mark our progress. Just more ocean. That is my story and I am sticking to it!

Back to our drive -- We were just going along. On that nice, not very wide, but paved road. Enjoying the ocean. Enjoying the sun. Enjoying - oh, what did that sign say. Narrow. Winding. Well, duh. The road we were on was winding and narrow. About then Terri went white. Too late.

This was not narrow and winding. It was one lane. Very winding. Very steep. AND NOWHERE TO TURN AROUND. NO WAY TO STOP. Then we realized there was traffic coming at us. At least we were on the inside. We were not going to fall off.

Okay, I will end the story. Terri really was frightened. She had never been on a road like this. We knew we had to get off somehow. That is when we saw a pull off. Relief - at least for a moment.

Then we found our guardian angel. A man was waiting in a car while his wife took pictures. I got out and asked if they were headed back down. He said yes. I then explained and asked if we could follow him. He said yes. We said, "Thank you Lord."

We did follow him down. As our guardian angel passed each car, he asked if they would allow the car behind him to go through also. Each driver nodded to us as we passed by. As Terri saw our guardian angel's car get by other cars without falling off the edge, she realized she could get through too. Yes, when we safely arrived at the bottom, we thanked our guardian angel!

Sorta like life. Sometimes we start out on a road that is fine. Fun. Pretty. Safe. Then before we realize it, just one miscalculation lands us on a very narrow, very unsafe road. All it takes is one word. One thought. One action. And we have nowhere to go. Nowhere to turn around. We just keep our hands on the steering wheel, afraid to let go. Afraid to go on. Afraid to go back. Afraid until we find our guardian angel.

QUESTION OF THE DAY

When have you been afraid?

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

LET US PRAY

Thank you Lord. Thank you for sending guardian angels. I do try so hard to stay out of trouble. To stay safe. How grateful I am to know that I can always turn to you. That no matter where I am you are right there with me. When I am afraid, you can calm my fears. When I feel I cannot go on, you are reaching out your hand to help me with the next step. When I am afraid to go back, I know you will be turning back with me. To help me no longer be afraid. Amen

PLEASE CONTINUE YOUR PRAYER. Tell Jesus what makes you afraid. Tell Him your concerns. Trust Him with every care, concern and worry you have.

Isaiah 41:10 -- 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.

Greetings,

We are all home safe, sound and very tired. Funny, but gaining 6 hours going to Hawaii did not seem to change my energy level. I can not say the same for giving those 6 hours back when we returned.

Hawaii is a beautiful state and I can now say I have been in all 50 states. WHAT A WONDERFUL COUNTRY WE LIVE IN. We are certainly blessed. Mountains. Desserts. Oceans. Rivers. Trees of every kind. Flowers. Oh, this could be a very long list.

I am sorry that I did not post a blog yesterday, but yesterday just got away from me before I realized it was Friday. A new blog will be posted Friday, April 3. Check back then.

Have a great day. Enjoy life and look around as spring is beginning to wake up the flowers, grass and trees.

PACKING

Just a note: I will not be posting a blog March 20, 2009. That is unless I happen to find a computer handy. Celebrate each day, Mary

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: MARK 6:7-9

Calling the Twelve to him, he sent them out two by two and gave them authority over evil spirits. These were his instructions: "Take nothing for the journey except a staff -- no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. Wear sandals but not an extra tunic."

PACKING

I can tell you one thing about the trip Jesus sent the Disciples on -- They were not flying to Hawaii. Take nothing. No money. No bag. Wow have times changed!

Packing for our trip --- I better update you: Bill and I have been to 49 states. Every state except Hawaii. I am going to go to Hawaii. You will notice I did not say Bill and I are going to Hawaii. Bill says he might go when he can drive there. Knowing that was not going to happen anytime in my lifetime, our daughter, Terri, offered to go with me. Isn't she just the sweetest daughter? So Sunday, Bill is dropping Terri and me in Indianapolis and he is then heading to Arizona to visit a friend. He did say he would slow down long enough for us to hop out and grab our suitcases.

Terri and I fly out the next morning and will return the 27th. Flying makes packing a bit of a challenge. You see, ever since we went to Alaska and I found out how easy it was just to pack everything in a big blue tub, we only use a suitcase for the things we need to take into the motel each evening.

I had forgotten how limiting suitcases are. Do you realize how much space extra shoes take up? And those undies that were stuffed in plastic bags and stacked in that blue tub seem to use every corner. The swimsuit had to be packed instead placed in a beach bag and thrown in the back. And -- Well, maybe you have flown lately and are an old hand at packing light. I have been used to years of "sure go ahead and take that, there is room."

What, God? "Take nothing for the journey except a staff -- no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. Wear sandals but not an extra tunic."

Wow, how did they do that? My bags are packed. I am ready. I am excited. I am so thankful for this opportunity. If God sent me, would I be able to walk out the door, wearing one set of clothes and trust God to provide for all of my needs?

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Do you like to travel? Do you go visit family? Friends? Travel for work? How do you pack? Could you go as Jesus sent the Disciples?

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

LET US PRAY

Dear Jesus, Sometimes it seems I am so like the Disciples. Learning. Trusting. Spreading your word. Then I read about going out with nothing. No money. No bread. No extra clothes. Then I wonder if I have enough faith. Lord, help me trust. Trust that you will provide my every need. Lord, help me trust you to…………….. Amen

LET THE LIGHT SHINE

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: 2 CORINTHIANS 4:6

For God, who said, : Let light shine out of darkness," made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ."

LET THE LIGHT SHINE

Let the light shine! That is the new motto in our neighborhood.

We had an ice storm last December. Trees down everywhere. Many people were without power for days. It was a great big mess.

Our neighborhood has a constant reminder of that time. No, not limbs still stacked everywhere. The town finally came and got those. No, not even the fact that you can see where many trees were cut down. We have a unique situation.

When the storm hit and the trees fell, one tree decided to do some extra damage. Not having a house to fall on, that tree knocked over one of the streetlights. AND IT IS STILL LAYING THERE! ! !

Every evening, the streetlights come on and guess what -- so does the street light lying on the ground. It shines all night. Then in the morning, when the rest of the lights turn off, it does the same. Every night on. Every morning off. All the time lying on the ground.

It looked pretty at first. Shining through the ice. It even made a soft warm glow when the snow covered it. Now? It just looks strange.

There it lies. Damaged. Fallen. Bent. BUT STILL SHINING! ! ! Still lighting our street.

Do you see a message from God here? No matter what happens. Someone may knock us down. We may be damaged. We may fall. We may be bent. BUT WE STILL NEED TO SHINE! We need for the light of God to shine in our lives, so others can see where our strength comes from.

Have a great day. A great week. A great life. And no matter what comes your way, SHINE.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Has anything knocked you off your feet lately? Are you feeling down, not broken but maybe just bent? Are you having trouble letting your light shine?

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

LET US PRAY

Dear Lord, I am like the light pole. Sometimes my light burns bright, as I stand firm in your word. Sometimes my light is sparkly as if reflected by ice. Sometimes it is just a warm glow. Sometimes I just feel like it does not matter if my light shines or not. Sometimes I just want to lie down and turn off the switch. Let me always remember that it is YOUR light that shines through me. That YOUR light is in my heart. - This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine. This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine. Let it shine. Let it shine. Let it shine.… Amen

SILENCE TO AWESOME

TODAYS SCRIPTURES:

Silence:

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:21

"Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." Psalm 46:10

Awesome:

For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality and accepts no bribes. Deuteronomy 10:17

How awesome is the Lord Most High, the great King over all the earth! Psalm 47:2

I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying. And they were calling to one another: 'Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory." Isaiah 6:1-3

SILENCE TO AWESOME

Silence - Silence is a wonderful thing, because when we are silent we can listen. We can hear God telling us, "This is the way, walk in it." And when we are still, we can know God.

Then you have to consider our five year old grandson's birthday party. Timothy turned 5. He will be known as Timmy for the rest of this writing because he is - for sure - more Timmy than a dignified Timothy.

Timmy and his brothers recently received puppies. (Link: My Hectic Life with 4 Boys) Their father (notice I said father) thought this would be a good birthday gift for Timmy. I asked Timmy if he wanted things for the puppy and he thought that would be a good idea for birthday gifts. So shopping I did go.

A box of dog treats. A dog toy. A Dr. Seuss book with dog in the title. Coloring books about dogs. And because Timmy is a five year old, a Spiderman gift just for fun. Off we went with his gifts and the ice cream. Grandpa has become the designated supplier of ice cream for birthday parties.

Currently, Timmy's favorite word is awesome. He looked in the sack and saw five wrapped gifts. "Awesome." He unwrapped the dog biscuits. "Awesome." He unwrapped the dog toy. "Awesome." He unwrapped the Dr. Seuss book. "Awesome." He unwrapped the coloring books. "Awesome." He unwrapped the Spiderman toy. "Awesome."

Now I want you to go back and read that last paragraph aloud. When you come to the word Awesome, I want you to jump up and down and say it in a voice that could shatter windows and set every dog in the neighborhood howling.

Silence and "Awesome." Quite a contrast, but isn't that what our lives should be? We are constantly being told to be still. To wait in silence. To listen. BUT have we lost the "Awesome" part? When was the last time you saw something and said, "Awesome." ?

If you saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filling your church, would you shout Awesome?

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

When needed, can you quietly wait for God to direct you? Can you sit in silence? BUT -- When do you say "Awesome."? When do you get more and more excited? When are you thrilled at a box of dog biscuits?

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

LET US PRAY

To an Awesome God, To the Awesome God that created this world, Who created me, Lord, when I wait, silently to hear your voice, let me have patience. Give me patience to know you are God and that you will show me the way to walk. As I walk your path, turn my eyes to the east and west and let me say, "Awesome." As I walk, turn my eyes to the north and south and again see your wonders. "Awesome." Lord, lift my eyes up to the heavens and let me shout, in a voice full of excitement and wonder, "AWESOME." To you, the Holy, Holy, Holy Lord Almighty, I bow my head and gratefully say, "Awesome."… Amen

FEBRUARY IS ALMOST OVER

TODAYS SCRIPTURES:

Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe. Psalm 61:1-3

When the lord brought back the captives to Zion, we were like men who dreamed. Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, "The lord has done great things for them." The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy. Psalm 126:1-3

FEBRUARY IS ALMOST OVER

I don't know about the state you live in, but February in Indiana is just yucky. Yes, the sun does come out - occasionally. And yes, the snow looks pretty. But February is like being in the middle of nowhere. It isn't winter and it isn't spring. When the snow melts, it is muddy. And you see all the trash people have thrown out. The sky is usually a drab gray and the air is damp. It is still dark when you wake up.

Bill says there is a reason there are only 28 days in February. We couldn't stand it if there were 30 or 31. Of course, every four years they have to make it worse and add a day. They couldn't put that extra day in a good month like September when we would appreciate another nice fall day.

Do you get the idea that I don't enjoy February? My mother never did either. She would start to get that shut-in, give-me-some-sunshine feeling. That is when she would come stay with us for two or three weeks. I think like so many people, mother had seasonal depression. The weather just plain got to her.

Mom would come and we would get out the card table so she could work jigsaw puzzles. She and I would play Rummy Cube, in the evenings. She would request mashed potatoes for every meal and spoil the kids.

When she visited, one thing mother enjoyed was being able to laugh. She said when you lived by yourself you just do not laugh aloud. One night we left her with the kids and they watched a movie. When we came home we could hear them laughing before we opened the door. They were laughing so hard they had tears running down their cheeks.

Was the movie that funny? I don't know. All I know is that the house was filled with a wonderful, joyous sound. I know that mother got to laugh out loud.

In Psalm 61, the people were down. Their hearts were growing faint. In Psalm 126, joy was restored. Mouths were filled with laughter.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Are you ever depressed? Does the weather get to you? What does make your heart grow faint? Where do you turn to find your way back? Do you look for someone "higher than I?"

I want you to know that I am not taking depression lightly. IF you suffer from depression, do not try to hide it or think you can handle it on your own. Please consider counseling and medication.

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

LET US PRAY

My Dear Lord, Sometimes I wake up and it is still dark outside. I just want to stay in bed and pull the cover over my head. Sometimes I just feel off. I am not sure what is wrong. It is a sadness. Sometimes a lonely feeling. When times like this come and my heart is faint, let me look up. Up to one higher than I. And let me look up until that time passes. And I know it will pass. Just like the month of February, my drab, gray time will turn to spring. And my heart will be filled with laughter. … Amen

WATCH WHERE YOU GO

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: Mark 13:32-33, 37

(Jesus speaking) "No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come. …… What I say to you, I say to everyone: 'Watch!' "

WATCH WHERE YOU GO

When you walk, do you look at your feet? Do you watch each step? Or do you look ahead?

Sunday, February 1st, I played hooky from church and instead celebrated Sunday by taking a grandson shopping. When our daughter's boys reach seven, we go birthday shopping. Noah turned seven in December and we finally found a day that worked for both of us.

Much to his disappointment, the first stop, in Target, was to buy clothes. Then we found the toy aisle and Noah picked out a toy. He also spent his it-is-yours-to-spend-how-you-want ten dollars. Hey, I think clothes, a toy and ten bucks was a good deal.

Noah has been to Wal-Mart and thought that is a big store. He had never been to a MALL. As we walked through the mall, Noah noticed all the stores but was more interested in stepping ever so carefully that his feet were always in the middle of the tiles. He did not want to step on a crack. This was fun and he thought the only thing we were going to do now was get something to eat. So he kept his eyes on the floor. Not looking ahead. (That was my job.) Not looking at anything except those tiles. Not looking up until --

"Oh Grandma, look at that. Do I get to ride?"

You see, Glenbrook Mall has a two-story carrousel and Noah looked up just at the right moment. I am glad I had not told him about it, because the look on his face was one of wonder. Yes, he rode. And on the top story. All smiles as it went around and around. A perfect way to end our shopping day.

I wonder how often we keep our heads down. Looking at each tiny step we take. So concerned about 'stepping on a crack' that we miss the wonder waiting for us.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Have you ridden a merry-go-round lately? Have you almost missed something wonderful because you failed to look ahead? Or failed to look up?

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

LET US PRAY

What do you have in store for me Lord? What wonders await me? Will I go around and around with joy? Smiling? Or will I miss out because I cannot take my eyes off the ground? Will I forget to watch? Let my steps be sure and straight so my eyes can always be on you. Let me lift my head so I may see the wonder of your creation. And let me bow my head as I offer my humble prayers. Dear Lord, let me always watch, because, when the time comes for Your return, I want to be ready. Amen

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PS -- Susan Ring has posted the painting I described in my January 16 blog. Go to www.susanringart.com. Then click on gallery page and then oils. Coming home from Culver is the first picture on the left. Enjoy

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RANDOM THOUGHTS

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: PSALM 143:8 (One of my favorites!)

Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go for to you I lift up my soul.

RANDOM THOUGHTS

Today's blog is random thoughts. They are in no particular order and written for no specific reason. Just random thoughts that have entered my tiny brain this week.

I shouldn't admit this (and hope you don't think less of me), but I do watch the show Saving Grace. It would be X rated because Grace is not ashamed of her bare backside and Grace does not follow the Ten Commandments. The show is about an angel trying to save Grace. The other night we caught a rerun of the first show. In that show, when the angel and Grace were talking, she asked the normal questions. Why this? Why that? The angel said, "If you had all the answers, you would not need faith."

Unending -- That is how I would describe laundry. Our daughter, who has four boys, five if you count her husband, would love to have my unending laundry. Hers is more like an un-scalable mountain. The trouble is that the laundry is never done. No sooner do you set the empty hamper in its proper location, than someone will decide to take a shower. Or toss a shirt in for no reason other than they have worn it for the last four days. Unending laundry. Oh, thank you God that we have clothes to wear. That we have a washer and drier. Thank you God for unending laundry. Another sign of a blessed life.

Leftovers can be fun. When trying to decide what to fix for dinner, I remembered the leftover turkey from Thanksgiving. So I used the turkey and made a big pan of turkey and dressing!!! Boy did it taste good. I asked our son if he would like some for his supper. He said no. Guess what -- Once mentioned, the turkey and dressing kept sounding better and better. Yes, I received a call saying, "Can I take back my no?" Leftovers taste good and these leftovers brought back pictures of a Thanksgiving table and family. (A note to Terri: I froze some for you. Will bring it over next Friday when I come to spend the night with the boys.)

I am going to try to insert a picture. Other than pictures of our children and grandchildren, this is the best picture I have received in an email. Just look at the picture. Allow yourself to feel. Look at the smile on Jesus' face. Look at the calm on the face of the girl. May the picture give you comfort this week.

It did not take long to find this picture. I just googled Jesus hugging girl. Here is the link.

http://www.zinch.com/TalentShow/ViewDetails.aspx?FileId=362192&CatId=27649&SubCatId=27653

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Do you need all the answers before you have faith? Have you ever considered laundry a blessing? Have you ever said no and then changed your mind? Can you imagine what it would feel like to have Jesus hug you?

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

LET US PRAY

Jesus, I have come to talk to you. I am thankful that you are never too busy for me. That you strengthen my faith when I have questions. I ask that you open my eyes so I see my chores - laundry, washing the car, fixing the garage door, all those jobs - as blessings. Give me wisdom to know when I need to change my mind and the courage to do it. And Jesus, I do picture myself in your arms. I can imagine what it must feel like to be safely held. Surrounded by your love. And feeling the joy of your smile. … Amen

JUST A THOUGHT

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: PSALM 32:1-2, 10

Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit.

Many are the woes of the wicked, but the Lord's unfailing love surrounds the man who trusts in him.

JUST A THOUGHT

By now, I hope you have seen the movie Fireproof. This was in the theaters last fall and released for sale January 27. If I wrote about this before, sorry. Fireproof is a movie about a troubled marriage. A marriage where the husband and the wife have to learn to love. To respect. To believe. To trust. If you have not seen this movie, WATCH IT. (How is that for being bossy?)

This is a film for anyone that is thinking of getting married. Anyone who is having trouble in their marriage. Anyone who has a happy marriage. Actually, the lessons this movie offers are good for each of us. Who doesn't need to learn more about respect? Trust? Love?

A song from this movie is Slow Fade. It is by Casting Crowns and is a lesson for life. Slow Fade tells how our downfall never comes quickly. It starts slowly. A look. A word. A touch. Each a simple, single act. Nothing to fear there. Just as the first drink is harmless. The first lie is small. The first -- Well, the first time is usually innocent.

When we did a study of David, we saw David have a thought. Not a good thought about Bathsheba. Now, that thought wasn't all innocent, but it could have stopped there. BUT David did a slow fade. He went from thought to the next step. And the next. And the next.

The movie Fireproof portrays a couple working on a troubled marriage. Each wanting to be forgiven for things that went from slow fade to big problems. David turned to God to be forgiven for his actions that went from slow fade to big problems. As I watched a video of Slow Fade, I realized how easy it is to get on the wrong path. All it takes is the next word. The next drink.

The Good News here -- Through God you have the courage to NOT take the next step. God has His hand ready to take yours and lead you back to the right path.

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Are you ready to allow God to lead you on the right path? Do you recognize areas of "slow fade" in your life?

PRAYER

Each person is strong and weak in different parts of their life. My prayer would be different from yours. This week ask God to give you strength when you need courage.

Have a blessed week!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Shack

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: Revelation 1:8

"I am…

THE SHACK

I love to read. I am not big on history. Or books where "girl sees boy and hates him instantly." You know immediately that they will fall in love and all will be right with the world. Sometimes I read books that jump off the library shelf and sometimes books that are recommended. Let me tell you about one of those recommended books.

My friend, Sharon, asked me, "Have you read The Shack?" I answered her, "No. I have not heard about it."

I happened to be in Joy Christian Bookstore and there it was. The Shack. I bought it, laid it aside and now wish I had read it immediately. WOW! (www.theshackbook.com)

Is this an easy book to read? Yes and no. The novel is about (from the back cover): "Mackenzie Allen Philip's youngest daughter, Missy, has been abducted during a family vacation and evidence that she may have been brutally murdered is found in an abandoned shack deep in the Oregon wilderness. Four years later, in the midst of his Great Sadness, Mack receives a suspicious note, apparently from God, inviting him back to that shack for a weekend. ----- In a world where religion seems to grow increasingly irrelevant The Shack wrestles with the timeless question: Where is God in a world so filled with unspeakable pain? The answers Mack gets will astound you and perhaps transform you as much as it did him. You'll want everyone you know to read this book!"

Eugene Peterson -- "This book has the potential to do for our generation what John Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress did for his. It's that good!"

Michael W. Smith, recording artist -- "The Shack is the most absorbing work of fiction I've read in many years. My wife and I laughed, cried and repented of our own lack of faith along the way. The Shack will leave you craving for the presence of God."

Everyone has different types of books and specific authors they like to read. BUT -- If you are willing to allow a work of fiction to increase your faith, please read The Shack. I read this book quickly. I wanted to find out how it ended. I now plan to read this book slowly. Taking time to absorb every word.

Did you think I used a short scripture today? Or that maybe it didn’t all print? Actually, "I am" is all I intended to use. A quote from The Shack: God speaking: "I am a verb. I am that I am. I will be who I will be. I am a verb! I am alive, dynamic, ever active, and moving. I am a being verb."

God is a verb! God is alive. God is dynamic. God is ever active. God is alive, dynamic and ever active in our lives. TODAY.

QUESTION OF THE DAY

What books have you read that helped you? Please use the comments to let us know.

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

LET US PRAY

To the great I AM, I AM. Not I was or I will be, but I AM. O Lord, that makes me want to shout with joy. I AM. That means You ARE here for me now. You ARE helping me understand when times are tough. You ARE hearing my prayers. You ARE caring. Right now. Right where I am. Right here. As I say this prayer, You ARE active in my life. To the great I am, … Amen

THE ROAD

TODAYS SCRIPTURE: Psalm 89:15

Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O Lord.

THE ROAD

I had hoped to put a link to a painting so you could see it, but of all the paintings Susan Ring (www.susanringart.com) has posted, Going Home From Culver is not one of them. You are going to have to use your imagination. I would tell you to close your eyes, but then it would be hard to read, so keep those peepers open.

Picture yourself standing on a small country road. One with no center stripe and no white lines along the side to guide you. Then notice the grass growing to the edge of the road. Like a border. Now add trees. Trees that cover the road like a canopy. Can you picture this? Add a small bush with blue flowers to your right. And ahead of you -- that is what is so great about the spot where you are standing.

Ahead of you, the road is unending. The sun is shining because the tree canopy ends. It is as if you are going out of a dark tunnel and heading into a warm inviting light. Now, close your eyes for a minute and see if you can place yourself in this picture.

Could you feel it? When I look at this picture, it is as if I am looking at hope. At peace. At comfort. When I look at this picture, I know that Jesus will be sitting, just up the road a bit, waiting for me. I can picture him, relaxing, as if he had all the time in the world. Waiting just for me. Waiting, with a drink of water and a piece of bread. Waiting to take my hand and say, "I knew you would be coming down this road. May I walk with you? I have so much to share with you."

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Have you ever been on a road like this? Where you felt an instant feeling of calm? Peace? As if, you were not alone. As if wonders waited, you if you just stayed on this particular road.

Please finish this prayer in your own words --

LET US PRAY

My Dear Jesus, I know you are waiting for me. Patiently waiting for me while I work through all of my questions. My doubts. My fears. Sometimes I do feel like I am in a tunnel. When I am in that place, let me always keep my eyes open so I can see the light. The peace. The hope. The comfort you offer. Jesus, right now I want to tell you about ........ Amen