THAT'S THE DADDY I WANT

(based on Luke 15:11-32)

I do believe this is the most discussed, most preached, most one sided parable there is. Let’s get the given out of the way: Yes, this is a parable about us coming home to God. Coming home after we have taken his blessings, wasted them, hit rock bottom and hoping we will be forgiven.

My problem is I think the older brother is getting a bad reputation he does not deserve. I do not think he is mad about his brother coming home. I do not think he is even mad about the fattened calf. He might have been a bit upset about the ring, but who knows for sure.

Here is the visual. The older brother has been out working all day. He is hot, tired and sweaty. All he wants is a shower, clean clothes, supper and the remote control.

Confused the older brother asks a servant, "What is all the fuss about? Is my father okay? He isn't ill is he? Where is he? Is he in bed?"

The servant, really too busy to stop and talk, says quickly, "Your father is fine. Your brother is home." Then he adds, "We are having a party to celebrate. The fatted calf is almost done."

Now angry, the older brother yells, "Fatted calf? Did he give him a ring too?"

"Father! Father!" he yells as he runs into the house.

Smiling the father said, "Settle down, son. Your brother is home. I saw him …"

"You were watching for him?" the older brother asked in an indignant tone.

"Why yes," the father replied. "I saw him when he was still a long way off and ran to him, threw my arms around him and kissed him. We are now having a party to welcome him home."

The father said, "You have worked hard and everything I have is yours, but your brother is no longer lost. He is home and we have to celebrate."

IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU

“My son you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But…” You see, it is the little word "but" that causes the problem.

It could happen to you. You can be steady and loyal and still not get the fatted calf.

The older brother wanted a father who was so excited to see him he would run to meet him. He wanted a father who loved him enough to throw him a party. He wanted a father who showed love. Not one who said "but." My take is the older brother was upset because he wanted his brother’s father.

Are you more like the older brother than you want to admit?

"I always did the dishes when I was told and I kept my room clean, but he leaves everything a mess. Why doesn't he get in trouble?"

"Just because she stayed out past curfew doesn't mean I will. Why am I punished for her behavior?"

"But that piece of pie was mine. I told you I was going to eat it later. Why did you let him eat it?"

The problem is you expect your parents to be perfect. To be everything you need. To be fair. To love you. To protect you. Here is where a "but" comes in. BUT no parent is perfect. No parent is always fair. No parent can protect you at all times. No parent except one.

Do you know your Creator, your Heavenly Father, your God loves all of his children equally. He loves you unconditionally. He is watching and waiting for you to come home.

That is the Father you want!

And your Heavenly Father has gifts for you so exorbitant they will make a robe, sandals, ring and even a fatted calf seem like pocket change.

BRING ON THE STORM

(based on Luke 8:22-25)

Jesus tells his disciples to go to the other side of the lake and then takes a nap. This makes me picture a large lake, because Jesus was going to have time to take a nap and a large boat, because it would hold thirteen. Plus, remember many of the disciples were fishermen. They were very familiar with boats and water. I picture it this way ---

"Jesus must really be tired if he is going to take a nap," Simon says. (Sorry couldn't resist.)

James added, "Let him sleep. He has been healing and teaching so he needs a break."

Thomas chimed in, "The lake is calm. Jesus' nap will be as soothing as being rocked in a cradle."

"I hope so. Remember I was a tax collector and my legs get a bit wobbly out here," Matthew said with a smile.

The disciples had failed to check the weather channel and a squall came down on the boat. The cradle nap Jesus was enjoying was soon to be interrupted. The disciples woke Jesus.

"Master, Master, we're going to drown!"

Jesus got up and told the wind and raging waters to settle down. All was calm.

"Where is your faith?" Jesus asked his disciples. I am sure Jesus shook his head, got a bottle of water out of the cooler and found a place to sit down.

In fear and amazement they asked one another, "Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him."

When I read this I want to say, "Really? You have listened to Jesus. You have seen him heal. You have eaten with him. Sat around when no one else was there. Prayed with him. Don't you get it?"

IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU

How did they not get it? Why were they surprised when the wind and water obeyed Jesus?

It could happen to you. Do you sometimes not get it? Do you sometimes not understand?

When you have questions and when you don't understand, think about the disciples. They spent time with Jesus while he was in human form. They ate with him and told jokes. They watched him talk to children. They watched him heal the crippled lady. And they still did not comprehend!

Do you ask why? Then feel guilty because you apparently don't have enough faith. If you had enough faith, you wouldn't be asking why. You would simply trust.

When you ask why, think about the disciples. They asked Jesus why all the time. Why aren't you taking out the Romans? Why are you talking to the Gentiles? Why aren't you going straight to Lazarus so you can heal him? Why aren't you making Mary get in the kitchen with Martha so she can help cook our supper? Why are you talking to the Samaritan woman?

Do you ever deny Jesus? Say you don't know this man?

When you deny Jesus, think about Peter. Jesus told Peter, "And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church." Jesus asked Peter, "But what about you? Who do you say I am?" Peter answered, "You are the Christ." And yet Peter denied Jesus three times.

When you have questions and when you don't understand, think about the disciples.

When you ask why, think about the disciples.

When you deny Jesus, think about Peter.

The disciples did not understand, they asked why and Peter denied Jesus, but Jesus loved them.

Just like Jesus loves you.

WHO IS JESUS' MOTHER?

(based on Matthew 12:46-50)

Have you ever had a reunion with your house overflowing? The kids table is empty and the adults have finally moved into the living room where the chairs are softer. Some people are sitting on the floor. Some are standing because there is no place to sit. Then everyone's favorite uncle starts telling stories. All eyes turn to him and outside noise disappears as the voice pulls them into the story. Even those in other rooms become quiet so they can hear.

Now take your memory and place it in a home during Jesus' time and Jesus is the one speaking. The people are listening, when someone interrupts Jesus and tells him his mother and brothers were waiting outside. Seems they wanted to tell him something.

Now here is where my imagination takes over. I picture Mary outside waving her hand, trying to get Jesus attention. I am pretty sure she wanted to tell him it was time to eat and rest. Her little boy had a busy day, what with casting out demons and dealing with those Pharisees, and she was looking out for him. We all know how mothers can be.

Then it happened. Mary heard HER SON say, "Who is my mother? Who is my brother?" Pointing to his disciples, he continued, "Behold my mother and my brothers."

Now my imagination really kicks in because those words would upset any mother.

Mary did a quick spin and turned to her best friend. "Behold my mother and my brothers. Did you hear that? I gave birth to him. I fed him. I cleaned up after him. I am the one who was worried when he was missing because he felt the need to be about "His Father's Business." And I'm standing out here instead of being in a comfortable chair where I can hear and see my son and he makes a statement like that instead of saying, 'Hi mommy.' Well, I never!"

IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU

Take a step back Mary! How Mary reacted is not recorded but it could have been this way. Mary was 100% human and humans often take offense when none is intended.

It could happen to you. Especially when you have worked really hard and come home tired. Or have had a bad day. Or feel unloved.

Feelings are fragile. Tempers can flair. Pride moves front and center. Ears close. Minds are made up. The rest of the conversation goes without comprehension.

As a parent, your children often say things to hurt you. Even though they don't mean it, their words and actions cut you to the very core. Words or actions which leave you wondering if they have the smallest inkling of what you do for them. You want to shout, "Do you have clean clothes? Did you eat the supper I fixed? Do you really think I want to read Goodnight Moon every night before you go to sleep?"

You want to quietly ask, "Do you love me at all?"

At home, at work, at places where you volunteer and even at church, you can be offended by hearing half of a sentence as you pass the coffee machine. You take offense when your efforts are not recognized with an atta-boy. Your walls go up when someone you love, says one thing but you hear another.

Jesus was not offending his mother. Jesus was letting us all know we are his family. He wants us to sit in the easy chair or on the floor or even lean against the wall and spend time with him.

Mary was Jesus' mother and I am sure she understood. Do you understand or are you quick to be offended?

COME ON DOWN

(based on Luke 13:10-13)

My goodness. The black words in this section have caused a whole movie in my brain! The set is a synagogue and the time is a Sabbath morning. The extras are milling about and the director is giving last minute directions. Everyone is ready. This is Take 1.

Jesus is the center of attention. He is speaking. He is teaching. The men are crowded around and wearing their best robes. The ruler of the synagogue is watching every move Jesus makes. He is listening to every word. He is wondering what the people see in this guy.

On the outer edge of the men, where they belong, are the women. Do you see them leaning forward trying to hear? Holding onto each word. Standing on tippy toes trying to get a glimpse.

Then Jesus stops speaking. Out of all these people, Jesus sees the one woman no one else sees. She is there. Clear in the back. Not standing tall. Not seeing Jesus because she is so crippled. So bent over. For eighteen years she has only seen the floor.

All eyes are on Jesus but he has his eyes on a crippled woman. Can you hear Jesus calling her to him? In front of everybody! How do you think she felt walking through the people? Did they clear a way for her? Were they mumbling about how bent over she was? Did they wonder what was going to happen? Then Jesus -

Then Jesus set her free from her infirmity and put his hand on her. Can you hear the tenderness in his voice? Can you imagine the feel of his touch? Can you picture the woman slowly straightening her back? Standing tall! Standing upright! Can you see the tears on her cheeks as she looks into the eyes of Jesus? Can you hear her praise God?

Can you hear her telling everyone, "My life is different today than it was yesterday!"?

IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU

A crippled woman, unseen by those around her, but seen by Jesus. Healed and standing tall, this woman could now see where she was going.

It could happen to you. You can be healed.

Can you picture the joy of the crippled woman upon being healed? Think of your everyday activities and how hard it would be to do them bent over. But how often do you stay bent over because you refuse to forgive, hold a grudge or hang onto a sin?

What joy would come into your life if you didn’t have to carry those burdens?

How much better would your life be if you allowed Jesus to set your free?

Talk to Jesus about setting you free. Life is much better when you are standing straight and can see where you are going.

Your tomorrow can be greatly different than your today.

Go ask the crippled woman. She will gladly share her story.

WHERE DID HE GO NOW?

(based on Mark 1:36-37)

My imagination wouldn't let go of the disciples looking for Jesus. It is way too funny of a vision rolling around in my mind because I see the disciples scurrying around like mice.

Remember Jesus got up very early. While it was still dark he went off to pray. The disciples were worn out from the previous day's activity, had hit the snooze button on their alarm clocks and were blissfully grabbing ten more minutes of slumber. First one and then the other stood up, stretched and mumbled, "Good morning."

No one was completely awake and conversation was at a minimum until Simon had his first sip of coffee. It was then he realized Jesus was missing.

"Where is Jesus?" Simon asked. "Is he still asleep?"

One disciple ran to where Jesus had slept. "No! He is not here," shouted the disciple.

The disciples were not worried. Surely Jesus was outside looking at the morning star. "No," another disciple yelled, "he is not out here."

My imagination sees the disciples going from room to room looking for Jesus. I bet they even checked the rooms more than once. No Jesus.

Finally, the voice of reason was heard, "Do you suppose he went off to pray?"

The disciples had to figure out which direction Jesus went. This finding Jesus was much harder than the Finding Waldo books. Waldo stayed still on a page but Jesus - well, the disciples were never exactly sure where Jesus would go next.

Get ready. Here it comes. They found him and said, “Everybody’s looking for you.”

I bet Jesus turned his head, looked at his disciples and chuckled, while thinking, "Those silly disciples. Next time I will leave a note."

IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU

Oh my goodness! The disciples lost Jesus. How dare they?

It could happen to you. Have you ever lost Jesus?

The disciples knew exactly where Jesus was when they went to sleep. The disciples could not find Jesus when they woke up. My imagination makes this a funny scene because when something is lost we look everywhere to find it. We even look in places again to make sure we didn't miss it the first time we looked. This is not funny though.

Have you ever lost Jesus? One minute he is there. Right beside you. Close enough to touch. You are so sure he is with you. You can feel his peace. His presence.

And then you cannot. Jesus is lost. You do not feel his peace. You do not feel his presence.

"Where are you Jesus?" you cry out. "I need you. I need you now."

You look for Jesus. "Where did I leave him? What happened between yesterday and today? What happened to my sense of security? I study. I read the Bible. I believe. Jesus, where are you?"

Alone, even if you are in a crowd or surrounded by family and friends, is how you feel. There is emptiness inside you. But why?

When this happens and it happens to every believer at some time in their faith walk, you have to take a deep breath and examine how you feel, what you have been doing and what you have been thinking. Are you on so many committees at church you don't have time for Jesus? Do you have health issues which consume your whole focus? Have you been so busy feeding the faith of others you have failed to feed yourself?

Stop. Take a deep breathe. Turn around. Jesus is right there and I bet Jesus arms are open and he is saying, "I will never leave you."

SOLITARY PLACE

(based on Mark 1:35-37)

These verses cause such a feeling of peace. Come along with my imagination.

It is early morning. Very early and still dark. Do you see Jesus?

Look close at the door. There he is. He is coming out. But where is he going? Why this early? Everyone is still asleep and for sure the coffee shops are not open. What could be so important to get up before the rooster crowed? Why is Jesus not taking one of the disciples with him?

Picture Jesus slowly walking to the edge of town. Calmly putting one foot in front of the other. Slowly but with determination. Jesus is a man on a mission.

Why is he stopping there? What is he doing? Oh!

Ever so gently, Jesus lifts his eyes toward heaven. Then he bows his head.

Jesus prays.

There is no record of what Jesus said. It only says he went off to a solitary place where he prayed. What is important is he prayed.

Can you picture him? His shoulders relaxed. His hands clasped and resting softly in his lap. Taking time to talk with God his Father. Sometimes looking up and smiling. Sometimes the smile being replaced with a look of concern.

Do you hear him praying for -- praying for all of God's sons and daughters?

Off by himself until Simon and his companions find him and exclaim, "Everyone is looking for you!"

I can picture them trying to find Jesus, but the search will have to be another story.

This vision is of Jesus when he went off to a solitary place and prayed.

IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU

Jesus went off and prayed.

It could happen to you. Do you go off and pray?

This text is not the only reference to Jesus praying. He prayed in a solitary place, on a mountainside, in a garden and on a cross. Jesus prayed to his Father and he prayed for Simon. Jesus taught us the Lord's Prayer. Jesus prayed for himself, the disciples and believers.

Jesus took prayer seriously. Do you?

"You don't understand. I am really busy and the day quickly slips away."

"I don't know what to say. I don't have the right words."

"Do I have to fold my hands? Do I have to raise them? "

My goodness, you are trying to make something really simple very complicated. How about we go over the basics?

There is no right and wrong position. You can pray in bed before you wake up or you can kneel beside your bed. You can pray sitting down or standing up. You can pray in church, in your home, in your car and outdoors. God does not care where you pray.

Your hands are free to be hands. They may lie in your lap. They may wave in the air. They can be lifted high or they can be under your head as you go to sleep. God does not care about the position of your hands.

Now let's tackle the words to use. News Flash: God only wants to hear you talk to him. He wants to hear you marvel at this world he has created for you to enjoy. He wants to hear your questions. He wants to take your concerns and your worries. God sincerely wants to hear, "Can we talk?" God doesn't care what words you use.

Jesus prayed. Do you?

SILENT

(based on Luke 1:5-25 and 1:57-80)

"Man I sure have a new compassion for those who cannot speak. Nine months without being able to talk seemed like an eternity. Especially when I had such a great story to tell," Zechariah thought as he held his newborn son.

Zechariah, a priest, and his wife Elizabeth were upright in the sight of God. They followed those commandments and regulations. They were content but their family was only two. They had no children. No children until -- Let Zechariah tell you about it.

"I remember it as if it was yesterday. I was burning the incense when an angel appeared. Having an angel pop in on you is a bit out of the ordinary. My mind went from what I might have done wrong to fearing what he would say."

"Then the angel said not to be afraid and my prayer had been heard. Well, I pray a lot so I wasn't sure exactly which prayer he was referring to until he said my wife's name and she would have a baby. A baby?"

"Then I made a mistake. I pointed out to an angel - the angel Gabriel - God's messenger - that Elizabeth and I were a bit old to be having a baby. Gabriel seemed a bit upset with me questioning his good news and informed me I would be silent until after the baby was born. I wish I could pull those words back into my mouth."

Can you picture Zechariah going home and not being able to explain they needed to get busy and prepare a nursery? Can you see the struggle he went through knowing his son would go before the Lord? Can you picture the wonder in his eyes because the angel mentioned Elijah in the same breath as he mentioned his son? But he was silent.

After nine months, Zechariah finally gets to speak, "And you, my child, ……"

IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU

Zechariah learned he would become a father and he was to name the child John. He was told the baby would be a joy and a delight and many would rejoice because of his birth. Zechariah had such great news but was silent.

It could happen to you. Do you have good news but remain silent?

There is danger in remaining silent. (You are thinking, "I am not a speaker. I cannot get up in front of people and talk. Speaking is not my talent." Keep reading because this is not about speaking to a group.) When you remain silent, you may cause your family and friends to question your faith. If your faith is not important enough to talk about, it must not be a big part of your life.

Luke could have written a very short, "John was born and prepared the way for Jesus." Instead Luke wrote many verses about Zechariah, Elizabeth and John. Luke wanted his friends, family and all generations to know about John the Baptist. Can you see Luke smiling as he sent this wonderful news to his friends. Can you imagine the joy his friends felt when they read the news Luke had for them? Luke did not remain silent. His message was important.

Zechariah had to be silent for nine months. Nine long months. Months when he could not tell about the glory of God and what was about to happen.

Do you have good news to tell but remain silent? Is your faith important enough to share? Important enough you cannot keep it to yourself?

YOU WANT WHAT?

(based on 1 Kings 3:4-15 and 2 Chronicles 1:7-12)

Solomon was a really great man but I wonder if his mind was as sharp as everyone thought. Or maybe it was something he ate at the great gathering of the whole assembly. Either way, I am sure he did not understand the choice God gave him.

Tired after speaking to all Israel - commanders, judges, leaders and heads of families - and going to the high place at Gibeon, Solomon fell asleep. Solomon slept and he had a dream. A whooper of a dream.

"Solomon," said God. "I have a quick question for you. What would you like? Anything. Name it and you got it."

I do not know about you but there are many ways to answer a question such as this. Health. Wealth. A brand new car. Getting my pesky neighbor to move. But no -

Solomon answers, "Oh, wisdom and knowledge will be enough."

"Really? Okay, if wisdom and knowledge are your heart's desire," God replied. "Solomon, you knew how to answer because you have struck the jackpot. Wisdom and knowledge will guide you as you govern my people but you will also receive wealth, riches and honor like none before or none after. And, if you walk in my way, you will live a long time."

Solomon woke up, made some wise decisions and did not lack for chariots, horses, gold or silver.

Solomon was right in the head and he had not eaten any bad food. Solomon was already wise enough to know how to answer God's question.

Wisdom and knowledge is exactly what Solomon needed.

IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU

A simple question: What do you want? A simple answer: What I need.

It could happen to you. Need to change the wording for this one. This does happen to you.

God is always asking you, "What do you want?" Then he waits for your answer.

When you answer are you wise like Solomon? Is your answer what you want? Or is your answer what you need? There is a big difference.

"What do you want?" God asks you.

With a smile and desire, you reply, "I want to be rich so I can buy a new car, fancy clothes and the best of the best. I want to be healthy so I can dance and run and shop. I want you to get rid of one pesky neighbor who is always bothering me."

Or do you answer another way.

"What do you want?" God asks you.

In a quiet voice you reply, "I want enough to live and help others. I want you to be there as my body hurts, my eyes blur and sounds disappear. I want you to walk with me as I visit my neighbor."

Do you remember what happened to Solomon when God heard his answer? Solomon received what he needed and so much more.

God will do the same for you. God will bless you. Maybe not with a new car or a new neighbor, but with a new outlook on what you need. He will also bless you with forgiveness and eternal life.

"What do you want?" God asks you.

How will you answer?

AT THE KING'S TABLE

(Based on 2 Samuel 9:12)

David was quite a character. He danced in the streets. He ran from God. He turned to God. There was the episode with Bathsheba which never should have happened but God sure did love him, warts and all. One thing I really like about David is that he was a good friend. Imagine --

"I so miss Jonathan," David sighed. "The news of his death almost did me in. How did everything go so wrong? It was not supposed to be this way. We should have laughed longer. We should have grown old together."

"Servant," David called. "I want to honor Jonathan. Is there any of his family left? Can you help me?"

Finally it was discovered Jonathan's son was alive. "He is lame in both feet," the servant told David.

Bless David's heart, he never missed a beat. He didn't write this "cripple" off as having no worth. David did the most unexpected thing. He had Mephibosheth brought to him and told him, "Oh how I loved your father! Come. Don't be afraid. I am giving you back the land your grandpa Saul owned. It is yours!"

David continued, "Are you hungry? What a silly question. Of course you are. Wait till you see the feast we have prepared for you."

"What?" David asked with a quizzical look. "Your feet? What do your feet have to do with anything? You are Jonathan's son! And never. Never, I say, call yourself a dead dog again!"

David remembered his friend. Jonathan's son, a cripple, lame in both feet, sat at a king's table and ate.

IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU

Known as a cripple - lame in both feet - and considered a dead dog by society, a young man has his inheritance restored, joined his father's friend at the table and ate "as one of the king's sons."

It could happen to you. You could be asked to eat at the table of the King.

Can you imagine what this must have felt like for Jonathan's son? In David's time a cripple was worthless. Someone of no value. Today, we have given cripple a nice name -- disability. Disability doesn't sound as harsh. And dead dog? Would you call yourself a dead dog? Close your eyes and imagine a worthless, dead dog, cripple coming into the presence of a king.

Did you close your eyes? What did it look like to you?

Can you picture yourself going to eat with the King?

You approach the table on feet that have walked on a path of sin and with hands that did not give bread to the hungry or water to the thirsty. You hang back because you have eyes that refused to see injustice and a tongue which did not defend the weak. You cringe as your ears hear your name because you know your ears did not hear the cries of the needy. You hang your head because you know you reserved your love for only a few. Each step is harder to take because you are carrying the weight of guilt.

I know that was not easy to read. Please do not stop reading though, because a cripple approached the table of David but David saw the son of a friend. Now picture this --

As you arrive at the table, the King sees you - clean and whole. The King sees you forgiven. The King invites you to the table because the King sees a friend of His Son.

Sit down! Enjoy! This King, because of His Son, has a special place at the table for you.

WHO SAID MY NAME?

(Based on 1 Samuel 3:1-19)

Can you see her? Over there. Alone. Tears streaming down her cheeks. Head bowed. Moving her lips with no sound coming out. She barely can stand. She is completely defeated. She is barren. Her prayers are for a child.

Hannah pleaded, "O, Lord. If only I could become pregnant. All I ask for is a child. A child to hold and love. A child to nurse. A boy, Lord. A boy I would give to you."

Finally realizing Hannah is sincere Eli, the priest, told her to go in peace and may the God of Israel grant your prayer.

Fast forward. Samuel was born and Hannah took her son to Eli. (Hannah had been true to her word and, after Eli, she was blessed with three sons and two daughters.)

Samuel grew and Eli trained him well. Then one night, as Eli slept and Samuel was ready to nod off, Samuel heard a voice, "Samuel." I imagine Samuel jumped right up, throwing the covers to the floor and ran straight to Eli saying, "Here I am."

Eli, waking from a bad dream about his rotten sons, was a bit confused and quickly explained to Samuel, "I didn't call you. Go back to bed."

This happened three times! Maybe I shouldn't imagine exactly what Eli said the third time. Oh yes I should. As Eli sat up the third time, the light bulb finally went off.

Eli understood now and said, "Why Samuel it must have been the Lord saying your name. Go back to bed and, when you hear the Lord calling you, tell him you are listening."

Now my imagination kicks in again. Picture Samuel laying there. Waiting. I doubt if he went back to sleep this time. He waited for the Lord to stand beside his bed and talk to him.

This time Samuel knew exactly who called him when he answered, "Here I am."

IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU

Samuel was called four times, but it was not until Eli told him it was the Lord and after he had heard the Lord's voice that he knew who said his name.

It could happen to you. You could be called by the Lord and not know it.

What if you heard your name called in the middle of the night? You're asleep and you hear your name. First you would wonder what is wrong. Is someone sick? Who called me? My spouse? My children? And if you live alone, it would be even scarier. Were you dreaming? Do you go back to sleep?

"But I heard my name," you think as your eyes stay open.

Samuel heard his name. Then the Lord stood beside his bed. And called his name again.

How do you hear the Lord speak? Do you hear him with your ears or with your mind or with your Spirit? If you have never heard the Lord's voice, how will you know it? How will you recognize it?

I firmly believe if the Good Lord wants you to hear him call your name, you will hear it with your ears! He has the ability to be audible. But I believe the Lord speaks to you in so many other ways. And when he speaks - when he calls your name - when he gives you a chance to say, "Here I am." - he may be speaking through a sermon, a friend or through an enemy. He may speak to you through a book. He always speaks to you through his Holy Word, the Bible.

Did you notice the circles in Samuel's story? His mother called to the Lord and then the Lord called to Samuel. Eli heard the mother's prayer and then told Samuel to hear the Lord.

Samuel heard because he had been taught and prepared to hear.

Are you prepared to hear? Will you recognize the Lord's voice? Are you ready to say, "Here I am."?

TIME TO BUILD AN ARK

(based on Genesis 6:5-22)

Now things were not going too great on earth. Wickedness. Evil. All sorts of bad stuff. The picture in my mind went from peaceful, lush and vibrant to dark, smelly and a very happy snake. God was not happy. I think God talked to Gabriel.

"Gabriel what happened? I planned this for good and look at what my children have become," God said with deep sadness.

With a strong voice, God declared, "I WILL GET RID OF IT ALL! EVERY PERSON. EVERY ANIMAL. EVERY BIRD. I HAVE HAD IT."

Then God saw Noah. God saw hope for mankind.

Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord but probably not in the eyes of others?

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

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

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

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

Noah heard all this as he worked and worked and worked. Noah heard the screams as the water rose.

IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU

Noah was an ordinary man getting through the day. Working, taking care of his family and trying to do the right thing. Then God asked him to do something way out of his comfort zone.

It could happen to you. You might be tempted to shout, "Lord, you want me to do what?"

Has God ever asked you to do something causing you to choose his will over family, friends or neighbors? Sometimes those closest to you do not understand or support decisions to quit smoking or drinking. Sometimes they do not understand your wanting to go to church on Sunday morning.

Have you ever taken a stand and then been laughed at or criticized? Have you ever wished you had not said something, because the pressure to change your belief is so great? Today's society wants us to be politically correct, but is society keeping you from standing up for your faith and values?

Think of the strength of character Noah needed to stand up to the looks. To the questions. To the laughing. Where did he find the courage?

Noah had courage because he trusted God. Do you trust God enough to say yes when he asks you to get out of your comfort zone?

Would you build an ark in your back yard?

EVE VERSUS THE SNAKE

(based upon Genesis 3:1-6)

God is showing Adam and Eve around the garden. He is pointing out flowers and trees. God loved this time with his companions. They were strolling along, until they come to one tree.

"So much I have created for you," God says. "Enjoy it all. Except for this one tree. Think you can walk right on by this tree because to eat from this tree will cause you to die? "

I can picture Adam and Eve shaking their heads and thinking, "It is a no brainer. With all there is to eat, of course we can stay away from one little tree."

Can you imagine the garden? Colorful. Lush. Peaceful. Adam and Eve enjoying the end of the day. Relaxed. Loved by God. Adam and Eve asleep.

Where is the snake? I think that ole snake had followed them, hiding behind trees and under bushes, but listening, plotting and waiting. He was being patient. He taxed his brain to full capacity figuring out how he would work his evil. Still hiding the snake was sizing up Eve.

Adam greeted Eve, "Good morning. What are your plans for today? Shall we name a few plants? And I saw a funny looking animal. Silly thing - big, gray, long nose. For some reason I thought elephant might be a good name."

Eve replied, "Elephant? Why not? This naming is getting a bit difficult. I never imagined God was so creative. Do you think we are even half done?"

"I think I will walk to the waterfalls. Do you want to come along?" Eve asked.

"No," Adam said as he studied a new bug. "We'll have some fruit and nuts when you get back. If you see something that strikes your fancy, pick it, would you?"

And the snake smiled.

IT COULD HAPPEN TO YOU

Eve never saw it coming and never had a chance. Eve had no defenses to combat that ole evil, sneaky snake.

It could happen to you. It is hard to keep our defenses up 24/7.

Okay, so the apple on the tree looked good and the ole snake told a good story, but why did Eve fall for it? Why did she not do as God told her? How hard could it have been to resist the fruit of this one tree? It isn’t like she and Adam didn’t have anything to eat. And she should have known better. After all ---

Come to think of it, there was no “after all.” No one before Eve had ever been tempted. She really did not understand the consequences of one little bite, of one little piece of fruit. Eve didn't grow up with parents teaching her right from wrong. Eve didn't have experts on television telling her how to say no and be strong. Eve didn't have an extended family, a church family or even a good female friend to turn to.

Don't you hate those "Eve" choices in your life? Those choices which seem innocent. Those choices where someone is telling you, "Go ahead. Who will ever know?"

You are warned not to use a curling iron in the shower. You are warned to buckle up before you drive. Why don't your choices come with a warning label? After all ---

Come to think of it, there is an "after all" for you. A very big one. It is called the Bible.

What choices do you face? Are you ever like Eve and listen to ole sneaky snake instead of the Word of God? Are the big decisions in life easy, but the little "one bite of the apple won't hurt" decisions hard? What choices do you face?

Unlike Eve, you have a defense system. And remember, that ole snake has no legs to stand on.

BACK JANUARY 10, 2014

If you read my blog and wonder where I have been -- nowhere.  I love writing the blog and would do it even if no one read it, but occasionally even something you love to do can become work instead of fun.  That is where I am right now. 

Sooooo – I have given myself permission to take a blog vacation instead of feeling guilty because I haven’t written anything.

I hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving and pray you have a blessed Christmas.

Mary

COMMUNION

As I held the bread, it hit me. Stronger than usual. Jesus ate bread. He was in a human form - a human body and he got hungry. He got thirsty. He needed to sleep. He felt pain.

Jesus knew what rejection felt like. He knew what it felt like to have family and friends not believe him. He knew what it was like to have leaders in the church disavow him.

Jesus knew what it was like to be tired. He knew there were times he just wanted to be alone. Jesus knew what it was like to have people always wanting something from him.

Jesus knew what it was like to need to talk to God. He knew what it was like to pray and to feel forsaken by God. By His Father!

Jesus knew what it was like to smile and celebrate. Jesus knew what it was like to see someone stand tall, be healed and to believe. Jesus knew how it felt to have a child sit on his lap and how it felt for a leper's hands to touch his. Jesus knew how it felt to teach others to carry on.

Jesus knew how it felt to be praised with shouts of Hosanna and how it felt to be sent to the cross with shouts of Give us Barabbas.

As I held the cup, it hit me. Stronger than usual. The Blood of Jesus - a direct line to God. Blood that was shed for my very smallest sin. Blood that takes my sins and permanently attaches them to this side of the cross.

Blood that washes me so clean that I can travel through the cross and continue my life in the presence of my ALMIGHT GOD.

SCRIPTURE: ISAIAH 1:18

Come now, let us settle the matter, says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.

AND NOW

How do you feel during communion? What do you think about? Have you ever had to train someone to take over your job and wonder if they would do it right? Jesus knows how you feel. He had to teach/train the disciples to carry on his job. Have you ever had family or friends not accept who you are or what you believe in? Jesus knows how you feel. The people in his home town told him to leave.

Do you ever feel like there is never enough of you to go around? Jesus knows how you feel. Someone always wanted Jesus to turn water into wine, heal the leper, get rid of demons or bring back the dead.

Do you ever just want to go off alone? Jesus did. He went to the garden. Do you ever feel like God has forgotten you? Jesus felt forsaken by His Father!

You get hungry. Jesus got hungry. You like to laugh. Jesus liked to laugh.

You feel unworthy because you are a sinner? Well, welcome to the club!! We all are sinners and we all are unworthy. But that is on this side of the cross. On the other side of the cross we are washed as white as snow.

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

Bread and wine, the body and the blood of Christ. Thank you Jesus for coming in a human body so that I know you understand how I feel. You ate, you laughed, you loved. Then you died on the cross for me so my sins could be washed whiter than snow. Then you arose and are sitting on the right hand of God telling Him all about me. Thank you. Amen

HOLIDAYS AND CELEBRATIONS

Halloween is almost over. Many communities postponed trick or treating because of the weather which means those little ones will be knocking on doors tonight.

Don't ya love this cartoon? Out with the pumpkin and get ready for the turkey.

This time of year seems hectic because one shelf has candy left from Halloween and across the aisle the Santa hats are already out. Each year the turkey and Thanksgiving receive less and less shelf space. A few napkins, a stack of paper tablecloths and a fall candle for the table are sitting in boxes, in the middle of the aisle, so they can quickly be stashed away on November 29. So much for Thanksgiving.

When did celebrating Thanksgiving shrink? Yes, we still get together and expect a huge meal of turkey, dressing, green beans, mashed potatoes and gravy and all that topped off with pumpkin pie, but then it quickly falls apart. That big meal, which took hours to prepare, has to be consumed between the parades and the ball games. Of course, the family no longer sits around, letting their turkey digest and telling stories on this crazy aunt or that unique cousin, because the stores are open.

What does Thanksgiving mean today? It means CHRISTMAS SHOPPING BEGINS!

SCRIPTURES

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. Psalm 100:4

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God, acceptably with reverence and awe, for our "God is a consuming fire." Hebrews 12:28

AND NOW

The pumpkin is right. The turkey is next. Thanksgiving is next. As you plan holidays and celebrations, don't forget Thanksgiving. Why not start a list now. Each day list something you are thankful for. Come Thanksgiving you will realize just how blessed you are and you will be excited to celebrate.

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

My God, with reverence and awe, I say, "Thank you." Amen

RANDOM THOUGHTS

This has been a strange week. Somehow Friday arrived before I was ready for it and did not get a blog written so will go with random thoughts.

I am reading a novel about a man who finds a carpetbag that is empty except when someone needs something. Then there it is, in the bottom of the bag. ?? What would you need and find when you reached in the bag?

When reading, I love to come across a sentence that just stops me. "Her silence roared in his ears." ?? When is silence in your life loud?

What to have for lunch? So thankful we have choices.

Just how much dust needs to accumulate before you feel guilty enough to clean?

We lie down, close our eyes, think whatever thoughts enter our brain and then it is morning. Why don't we realize when we go to sleep?

How does a hawk balance on the very thin branch, at the very top of the tree?

Why does tomorrow never come, but we never leave yesterday behind?

Why isn't the Bible in alphabetical order? It would make it much easier to find Jude.

Why does the price of gas go down right after you fill your car?

How did Friday get here so quickly?

AND NOW

What are your random thoughts? Kinda fun to let your mind wonder. So, today, no scripture and no prayer. Do your own random thoughts. Junk the bad ones. Hold onto the good ones. Thank God for the blessed ones.

PERCENTAGES AND BUT WAIT

"25% off for one day only," the email said. There was some fine print about not good on sale items, stamps, alcohol and prescriptions.

"This is the best skillet ever," the really loud man said on the infomercial. "It is only $9.98 plus shipping, BUT WAIT, for the next 24 hours we will send you two." The fine print was that you pay shipping and handling for the second skillet and the shipping and handling turns out to be more than the skillet.

"Come in on Columbus Day Weekend and get two suits for the price of one," the commercial offered. "This is a BOGO sale." The problem is that last weekend they were offering buy one and get two.

"Give a gift subscription for $5," the magazine letter offers. "And renew yours for $19.98."

Such good deals how do we pass them up? We are bombarded by coupons that entice us to buy products we do not need. We receive two skillets and neither one keeps the cheese from sticking to the skillet. Buy one suit and get two free? They must change the price tags every time they have a sale. And really? Maybe I should gift a magazine to myself!

25% off! But Wait! BOGO! Gift subscription! When do I know I am getting the best deal?

SCRIPTURES

(Jesus speaking) "If you love me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever -- the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you." John 14:15-17

(Jesus speaking) "But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes he will guide you into all truth." John 16:13

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Galatians 5:22

AND NOW

I know I am getting the best when I accept the deals God has for me.

Have you accepted the extravagant deals God has for you? Love? Joy? Peace? Patience? Kindness? Goodness? Faithfulness? Gentleness? Self-control? Or do you want them all? Go ahead and be greedy. But don't stop there! Tell God, "I want it all! On top of these I want forgiveness, eternal life, salvation and Your grace."

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

Such offers Lord and Your deals do not expire. They do not come with a condition to buy one and get one free. Lord, I want them all! I want to know Your love and be joyful. I want to accept Your peace and be patient. I want to share Your kindness, goodness and faithfulness with others. I want to use Your gentleness to give me self-control. I want the salvation and forgiveness bought by Your Son and I want eternal life received through Your grace. Lord, I want it all and I want it now. Thank you and Amen

WOULD ANYONE NOTICE?

How would you finish the sentence: Would anyone notice _____________ ? The possibilities are endless. Would anyone notice---

• my hair is now gray?
• I studied hard for this exam?
• I wasn't in church last Sunday?
• supper took a lot of work to prepare?
• I worked extra hours so we could go on vacation?
• if this blog was not written?

Those are all normal things we wonder. We all want the validation that what we do, how we look and how we act are noticed. Not necessarily in a "prideful" way. We just need to know that someone cares about our lives.

I volunteer for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) and the children I represent might have entirely different ways to finish the sentence. Would anyone notice --

• the bruises on my back?
• I am hungry because I did not eat breakfast?
• my parents cannot take care of me?
• me at all?

Being a CASA volunteer is not easy and it is not fun. We work for the best interest of the child and encourage parents as they work to learn parenting skills. We celebrate when children and parents are reunited. Smiles and hugs overflow when a family once again becomes whole and strong. We shed tears when a child learns they will not be going home and we pray a new family will form through adoption.

Would anyone notice if I was not a CASA volunteer? Yes, the children I am appointed to represent would notice, because without a CASA or, in some areas, a Guardian Ad Litem the child has no voice. The child has no one to stand up for them. The child has many people looking out for them - government agencies and service providers - but the CASA looks at the whole picture and speaks for the child.

Would anyone notice if there are more children than there are CASA volunteers?

The answer is YES. Sadly, there are children waiting in almost every county in the United States for a CASA volunteer. These children have government agencies and service providers looking out for them BUT they do not have someone who will represent them and say, "Judge, it is in the best interest of the child that…"

SCRIPTURE: MATTHEW 9:37-38

Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”

AND NOW

Workers are needed!

LET US

Lord of the harvest, send workers into the lives of these children. Amen

GOD'S PROMISES

The Shelter of God's Promises, by Sheila Walsh and Tracey Lawrence, is the small group study I am in. This study is about finding shelter. Shelter in the promises of God.

SCRIPTURE: 2 CORINTHIANS 1:20

For no matter how many promises God has made, they are "Yes" in Christ. And so through him the "Amen" is spoken by us to the glory of God.

SHELTER -- PROMISES

If there is anyone who can say they have never had a storm in their life or needed to find shelter, I want to meet them. God has promised us many, many things, but He never promised life would be easy. Life a piece of cake? I don't think so.

But where do we seek shelter? So many times, we run here and there. We try to fix it on our own. We go to friends. We go to family. Sadly, often we only go to God when all our efforts have failed.

Week one, of The Shelter of God's Promises, said that when the threat of the storm comes, we should remember these survival tips: my comments in ( )

1. Trust in the Promise, Jesus. (To do this we need to know Jesus. Start getting to know him now so when the storm comes you have trust in Him.)

2. Keep your gaze on Him. (Don't look down. Look up. Make God bigger than the problem. He is you know. Bigger than the problem.)

3. Praise Him for the profit that will come from enduring hardship. (The key here is enduring hardship. That means you make it through. You are not stuck there forever. There will be an end.)

4. Find reason to be grateful in the midst of loss and pain. (Yes, this sounds hard, but start small. Thank you that I woke up this morning. Thank you for the noise of the TV. Thank you for furniture to dust. Thank you for that cup of coffee.)

There was a quote: "I would not have made it this far without the promises of God." The exercise was: Fill in the blank based on your experiences: "I would not have made it this far without _____"

My answer: I would not have made it this far without God being patient with me, because when I am in the storm I have trouble holding onto or even seeing the promises. God's patience gives me the time I need to find my way.

AND NOW

Where do you go when a storm takes over your life?

SOMEDAY

Vacations! Good for the body and soul. Thank you Lord for a hubby that drives me on flat land, curvy roads and mountain tops.

My kind of road: Crooked, no other cars and surrounded by God's handiwork.

Yes, I am back, the desk is cleared off, attended a CASA Convention and ready to get into the daily grind. A daily grind that includes reading.

The Book of Someday jumped off the library shelf and shouted, "Read me." Only a few pages in, the main character is not a loved child and writes in a book about Someday.

Someday I will have a birthday party with people and singing.

Someday I will be pretty and not have long, heavy hair that aches my head.

Someday when I'm a mommy I'll never run away because I'm selfish and bad. I'll stay and I'll say I love you. I'll say it all the time, and give hugs. And I won't hit, especially not with a wooden hairbrush because of the hurt not ever stopping, even after the bruises go.

Someday I'll go to town in a golden gown and have my fortune told.

I have no idea where this book will go but I cannot wait to see how Someday turns out.

SCRIPTURE: PSALM 62:8

Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.

AND NOW

Life is not always easy. Much harder for some than others. Sometimes the hardships can easily be seen, as with certain illness. Sometimes the hardships are hidden, visible only on the inside and to God.

The character uses Someday as a way to cope. How do you cope?

PRAYER: I cannot write the prayer for today. It would have to be way too general. Today, talk to God. Tell him about your hardships. Pour your heart out. ALL OF IT! God can take it. Then allow God to be your refuge. Allow God to be your Someday.