Here is yet another love letter to God's people. Read what God is saying to you:
But now says the Lord that created you, O Jacob, and he that formed you, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed you, I have called you by your name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you: when you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon you.
For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Saviour: I gave Egypt for your ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for you.
Since you were precious in my sight, you have been honourable, and I have loved you: therefore will I give men for you, and people for your life.
Fear not: For I am with you: I will bring your seed from the east, and gather you from the west;
I will say to the north, Give up; and to the south, Keep not back: bring my sons from far, and my daughters from the ends of the earth;
Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.
Bring forth the blind people that have eyes, and the deaf that have ears.
Let all the nations be gathered together, and let the people be assembled: who among them can declare this, and show us former things? let them bring forth their witnesses, that they may be justified: or let them hear, and say, It is truth.
You are my withnesses, says the Lord, and my servant whom I have chosen: that you may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me.
I, even I, am the Lord; and beside me there is no savior.
I have declared, and have saved, and I have shown, when there was no strange god among you: therefore you are my witnesses, says the Lord, that I am God.
Yea, before the day was I am he; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand: I will work, and who shall let it?
Isaiah 43:1-13
WHO can say it better than God Himself....
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Take care and God bless
Blog-spot address?! WHAT?!
Then it cam to me, Take care and God bless. I have been signing my name for years preceeded by Take care and God bless and usually followed by a favorite scripture verse of the day.
From signing high school yearbooks in yesteryear, to ending emails with it today, I thought well, I guess it has been a part of me for a long long time so why not, blog-spot address it is.
So there you have it.
I hope what is written here will be an encouragement for you, and that in some small way it glorifiys our Great Creator God.
I shall pass through this world but once. Any good thing therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer it or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again. Etienne de Grellet
Take care and God bless.
Then it cam to me, Take care and God bless. I have been signing my name for years preceeded by Take care and God bless and usually followed by a favorite scripture verse of the day.
From signing high school yearbooks in yesteryear, to ending emails with it today, I thought well, I guess it has been a part of me for a long long time so why not, blog-spot address it is.
So there you have it.
I hope what is written here will be an encouragement for you, and that in some small way it glorifiys our Great Creator God.
I shall pass through this world but once. Any good thing therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer it or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again. Etienne de Grellet
Take care and God bless.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
One Christmas
Purging files the other day, I ran across a four paged double spaced TYPED (on erasable paper, yeah remember those days) narrative essay with "A" written in red pen on the front.
It was dated February 25, 1985....wow!
The comment written on the front by my college professor was, "a good narrative - some language too flowery". Just reading the first page I thought boy, did someone use a thesaurus on this paper?
Anyway, here it is:
Titled - One Christmas
The aroma of roasting ham permeated the tranquil atmosphere, intermingling, as it did with the aura of fresh pine being released by the newly decored greenery standing alone in one corner of the room.
Each limb strived to its potential to touch the ceiling, as the soft colorful lights that adorned them blinked intermittently.
A flickering flame from the crackling logs, furnished a solitary glow that competed against the overwhelming blackness as it sihouetted an oak table in the far corner.
Warmth emanated from the frolicking flames as they branched out in vain for anything within reach.
Shadows in the room were brought to life and danced on the fine china, crystal, and silver that blanketed the dark surface of the table. A soft concerto released a soothing effect as it meandered through the atmosphere.
This stillness was soon interrupted when three small bodies bounced into the room, soon followed by a taller figure burdened with wrapped packages and boxes. Laughter filtered through the room as the packages were ripped open.
The succulent ham soon fell victim to a sharp knife edge. As it was carved, every slice released hot juices which ran down the length of the blade. The table on which it sat, was choking as more provisions were added, one by one, much more than what could be consumed in one sitting.
Hot biscuits laced with melting butter took their place at one end of the table, as they did, one was unintentionally knocked to the floor; later to be tossed thoughtlessly to a waiting garbage can.
Outside, the snow was falling lightly as a gentle breeze tossed the flakes about playfully. The crispness of the air was hardly breathable and it decorated windows by brushing crystals across the surface of glass.
Icicles slowly made their way down from the eaves of rooftops and hung in silent rows, each one trying to out distance the other. A dog barked in the distance, the sound barely audible as it lingered on the frozen air.
A frail figure shuddered silently on a nearby street corner, the light breeze biting fiercly into this small frail frame. The figure stared longingly at the glow radiating from a neighboring house as a pang of hunger shot through his stomach. It went unnoticed as it had before. Such pains were common, and now ignored.
He glanced down into a tiny tin cup held between his frozen hands. He realized he had done a lot better today although a beggar's life was not easy.
After counting the change he had acquired, he carefully emptied it into a jacket pocket. This, he thought, would be enough to buy him some bread in the morning.
He then slipped the small tin cup into another pocket.
He crossed the icy surface of the road, slowly, carefully; selectively placing his cane with every step. The "cane" which he used was an old branch which had fallen from an old pine years ago, but it served it's purpose well.
The figure slowly entered the gates on the opposite side of the street.
What other people called a park, he called home.
He made his way toward his favorite resting place. Although there was no protection from the harsh elements around him, these surroundings provided a sense of security for him and, although he had lived in this place for several years, he couldn't remember a time when it had been so cold.
As he sat down gently, he let his mind wander so as not to focus on the cold surrounding him.
He was thinking about his childhood, what a sense of contentment there was then.
An unexpected drowsiness was taking over his body and he fought against it in vain. Slowly he lowered his head on the icy park bench. Blackness soon clouded his vision, a prisoner of the elements, he lay there motionless.
What seemed like minutes later, two gloved hands were violently shaking this half frozen figure on the park bench.
Slowly the form seemed to regain consciousness, and as it did, looked upward at the giant figure who had obviously saved him from experiencing death. He tried to smile but his face was numb. The frail man slowly sat upright and looked downward at the snow. Many footsteps had passed by his bench while he lay there as was clearly evident in the fresh snow, but no one had stopped before this stranger.
He looked upward at this giant figure again. A thick wool scarf concealed this stranger's face but it was soon removed and wrapped tightly around the old man's. Soon he felt himself being half-carried, half-dragged down the street.
The laughter in the house was cut short as the door flung open and the two figures stood in the doorway. One looked weathered, frail, and as though he hadn't eaten in weeks. The other was easily recognizable as both were greeted warmly.
The latter was soon smothered in hugs and kisses as petite bodies crawled over him like ants on an anthill.
The fire in the fireplace was stoked, the flames coming back to life, licking out in every direction and releasing warmth unselfishly.
The old man was soon freed of his jacket and escorted toward the massive oak dining table. As he was guided into a chair, he was accompanied by everyone as they took their places around the table.
As the plates were filled, a message of thanks was surrendered. The old man felt a welling of tears in his eyes. This was the best Christmas he had shared in years and he, was sincerely grateful.
The End
For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.
"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you , or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stanger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
The King will reply, ' I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' Matthew 25:35-40
Take care and God bless.
It was dated February 25, 1985....wow!
The comment written on the front by my college professor was, "a good narrative - some language too flowery". Just reading the first page I thought boy, did someone use a thesaurus on this paper?
Anyway, here it is:
Titled - One Christmas
The aroma of roasting ham permeated the tranquil atmosphere, intermingling, as it did with the aura of fresh pine being released by the newly decored greenery standing alone in one corner of the room.
Each limb strived to its potential to touch the ceiling, as the soft colorful lights that adorned them blinked intermittently.
A flickering flame from the crackling logs, furnished a solitary glow that competed against the overwhelming blackness as it sihouetted an oak table in the far corner.
Warmth emanated from the frolicking flames as they branched out in vain for anything within reach.
Shadows in the room were brought to life and danced on the fine china, crystal, and silver that blanketed the dark surface of the table. A soft concerto released a soothing effect as it meandered through the atmosphere.
This stillness was soon interrupted when three small bodies bounced into the room, soon followed by a taller figure burdened with wrapped packages and boxes. Laughter filtered through the room as the packages were ripped open.
The succulent ham soon fell victim to a sharp knife edge. As it was carved, every slice released hot juices which ran down the length of the blade. The table on which it sat, was choking as more provisions were added, one by one, much more than what could be consumed in one sitting.
Hot biscuits laced with melting butter took their place at one end of the table, as they did, one was unintentionally knocked to the floor; later to be tossed thoughtlessly to a waiting garbage can.
Outside, the snow was falling lightly as a gentle breeze tossed the flakes about playfully. The crispness of the air was hardly breathable and it decorated windows by brushing crystals across the surface of glass.
Icicles slowly made their way down from the eaves of rooftops and hung in silent rows, each one trying to out distance the other. A dog barked in the distance, the sound barely audible as it lingered on the frozen air.
A frail figure shuddered silently on a nearby street corner, the light breeze biting fiercly into this small frail frame. The figure stared longingly at the glow radiating from a neighboring house as a pang of hunger shot through his stomach. It went unnoticed as it had before. Such pains were common, and now ignored.
He glanced down into a tiny tin cup held between his frozen hands. He realized he had done a lot better today although a beggar's life was not easy.
After counting the change he had acquired, he carefully emptied it into a jacket pocket. This, he thought, would be enough to buy him some bread in the morning.
He then slipped the small tin cup into another pocket.
He crossed the icy surface of the road, slowly, carefully; selectively placing his cane with every step. The "cane" which he used was an old branch which had fallen from an old pine years ago, but it served it's purpose well.
The figure slowly entered the gates on the opposite side of the street.
What other people called a park, he called home.
He made his way toward his favorite resting place. Although there was no protection from the harsh elements around him, these surroundings provided a sense of security for him and, although he had lived in this place for several years, he couldn't remember a time when it had been so cold.
As he sat down gently, he let his mind wander so as not to focus on the cold surrounding him.
He was thinking about his childhood, what a sense of contentment there was then.
An unexpected drowsiness was taking over his body and he fought against it in vain. Slowly he lowered his head on the icy park bench. Blackness soon clouded his vision, a prisoner of the elements, he lay there motionless.
What seemed like minutes later, two gloved hands were violently shaking this half frozen figure on the park bench.
Slowly the form seemed to regain consciousness, and as it did, looked upward at the giant figure who had obviously saved him from experiencing death. He tried to smile but his face was numb. The frail man slowly sat upright and looked downward at the snow. Many footsteps had passed by his bench while he lay there as was clearly evident in the fresh snow, but no one had stopped before this stranger.
He looked upward at this giant figure again. A thick wool scarf concealed this stranger's face but it was soon removed and wrapped tightly around the old man's. Soon he felt himself being half-carried, half-dragged down the street.
The laughter in the house was cut short as the door flung open and the two figures stood in the doorway. One looked weathered, frail, and as though he hadn't eaten in weeks. The other was easily recognizable as both were greeted warmly.
The latter was soon smothered in hugs and kisses as petite bodies crawled over him like ants on an anthill.
The fire in the fireplace was stoked, the flames coming back to life, licking out in every direction and releasing warmth unselfishly.
The old man was soon freed of his jacket and escorted toward the massive oak dining table. As he was guided into a chair, he was accompanied by everyone as they took their places around the table.
As the plates were filled, a message of thanks was surrendered. The old man felt a welling of tears in his eyes. This was the best Christmas he had shared in years and he, was sincerely grateful.
The End
For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.
"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you , or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stanger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
The King will reply, ' I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.' Matthew 25:35-40
Take care and God bless.
The House that God Built
"Grandpa” as we fondly refer to him, approached me as I was pruning bushes and started, “Did I ever tell you…”
Now this usually led to a story that I had heard many times before but still enjoy listening to, but this time, the story was different.
“We had a good prune crop that year...$18,000..it was enough to pay for the house….didn’t cost a whole lot to build a house back then..but the prune crop paid for it.”
“God is good isn’t He Grandpa,” I replied. “God IS good” he agreed.
I don’t think he realized what an encouragement he was for me, for just the week before I started questioning just HOW we were going to afford to build this house we’ve been planning for four years now.
The house we were currently in, a mobile home, was deteriorating rapidly and I didn't know how many more winters it had left in it.
Our income had been cut in half while our bills were increasing and I had forgotten for a moment just how big our God really is.
Our “prune crop” was eating hay in the barn.
Monday evening as I was driving home from bible study with the girls, I was thinking about the lesson that evening. Pray specifically, then you will KNOW it is God at work.
So I began calculating…. Permit, excavation, foundation, 3rd mortgage(yuk), framing, (lumber),roofing, siding,... WOW... we would need ALOT to just get started.
How in the world could this be possible, but I knew with God all things were possible.
Okay God, THIS, is what we will need I prayed.
It was as though He had been waiting for me just to ask, for by Wednesday afternoon, two of our horses were sold and as a result, our 3rd mortgage was gone.
God is good isn’t He..I thought to myself, yes, God IS good.
Now I do not believe in a God that, as a personal genie grants our every wish, but in a God that desires a personal relationship with His children just as any father would.
As Jesus said,” If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” Matthew 21:22
We broke ground on our home in the fall of 2006 and have prayed through each trial as it has surfaced. Even the securing the financing to build was a miracle from God.
My prayer for you is that you too will know that despite the trial before you, our God is bigger than anything you face. It has now been a year and we have not yet made the move into the new house. As a lesson in patience we are still living literally in the shadow of our new home. So this story is "To be continued..."
Take care and God bless.
Now this usually led to a story that I had heard many times before but still enjoy listening to, but this time, the story was different.
“We had a good prune crop that year...$18,000..it was enough to pay for the house….didn’t cost a whole lot to build a house back then..but the prune crop paid for it.”
“God is good isn’t He Grandpa,” I replied. “God IS good” he agreed.
I don’t think he realized what an encouragement he was for me, for just the week before I started questioning just HOW we were going to afford to build this house we’ve been planning for four years now.
The house we were currently in, a mobile home, was deteriorating rapidly and I didn't know how many more winters it had left in it.
Our income had been cut in half while our bills were increasing and I had forgotten for a moment just how big our God really is.
Our “prune crop” was eating hay in the barn.
Monday evening as I was driving home from bible study with the girls, I was thinking about the lesson that evening. Pray specifically, then you will KNOW it is God at work.
So I began calculating…. Permit, excavation, foundation, 3rd mortgage(yuk), framing, (lumber),roofing, siding,... WOW... we would need ALOT to just get started.
How in the world could this be possible, but I knew with God all things were possible.
Okay God, THIS, is what we will need I prayed.
It was as though He had been waiting for me just to ask, for by Wednesday afternoon, two of our horses were sold and as a result, our 3rd mortgage was gone.
God is good isn’t He..I thought to myself, yes, God IS good.
Now I do not believe in a God that, as a personal genie grants our every wish, but in a God that desires a personal relationship with His children just as any father would.
As Jesus said,” If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” Matthew 21:22
We broke ground on our home in the fall of 2006 and have prayed through each trial as it has surfaced. Even the securing the financing to build was a miracle from God.
My prayer for you is that you too will know that despite the trial before you, our God is bigger than anything you face. It has now been a year and we have not yet made the move into the new house. As a lesson in patience we are still living literally in the shadow of our new home. So this story is "To be continued..."
Take care and God bless.
Speechless
As I get older, I find myself at times struggling to find the right word or phrase to fit a description...sometimes right in the middle of a conversation the correct word will escape me. Warning...it started with not being able to put a name to a familiar face and has gotten progressively worse!
As I was singing the words to the hymn "Wonderous, Marvelous" in church, I guess my focus was clearly not worship, because I began to think about how inadequate those words were to describe an indescribable God.
Are there ANY words in the English language that could clearly define Him? I mean, I use "marvelous" to describe a breathtaking sunset, or a star filled night, and "wonderous" to describe a sea of flowers in bloom, or the birth of a healthy baby, but these are the same simple words that I am using to describe The GOD that created such moments...it just does not seem fitting.
Are there really even any words fit to describe God? Any word that I could use to describe Him and His attributes are limited by my understanding of Him. And how can I truly understand One that is out of the human realm...GOD!
In Paul's letter to the Ephesians he pens a prayer that the Ephesians may comprehend the measure of the love of Christ. Love. Just ONE attribute of our God, and Paul is praying that they can understand it.
I guess that is why I love reading about what God says about Himself. In Job 38 and 39 God draws a perspective for Job and it begins in 38:4 when He asks "Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand. 38:1 describes the Lord as answering Job out of the storm. I can only imagine how vulnerable, fearful, and humble Job felt at this moment knowing first hand how small he was and how BIG his God was.
Personally I forget how really BIG my God is from time to time, how truly BIG my God is. When faced with what I would determine a "crisis" in my life, I forget that my God, my BIG God can change circumstances if He so chooses.
Paul continues in his letter to the Ephesians 3:20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,...Immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine....God is MORE than ANYTHING we can imagine...MORE, because how can a human mind comprehend that which is of GOD.
Recently at our weekly bible study, a son from one couple asked our group about why he should read the bible. I immediately felt empathy for this young man, as I remembered when I too, went through the struggle of the authenticity of the bible, a very common stumbling block for anyone wanting to know the truth about God, and one that only the Holy Spirit can break through.
Just as indescribable as God is...are the things of God. How can a mere man explain the things of God?
Although penned by men, the bible was written by God, every word, every punctuation. By God, about God. Which makes many parts of it incomprehendable to man. How is it that we are to understand the things of God?
In 1Corinthians 2 Paul explains that nothing of God, can be understood by man except through the Spirit of God. Paul continues to write in 1Corinthians 2:14 - The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned.
As I continue to reflect upon the nature of God, I know that there is no source, except for the Bible where He can reveal Himself more clearly and truthfully.
The author of the majority of the New Testament from an earthly standpoint had more to lose than gain when his life changed 180 degrees. Paul, formerly Saul, was intent on destroying the followers of Jesus, and was responsible for many persecutions until he had a dramatic life changing moment. To this day we, as a result of his conversion, have benefited from his books in the Bible. As for questioning the Bible's authenticity, that is a journey that without the Spirit of God, will lead to a "dead end".
My prayer for you is that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:17b-19 and that you will be able to grasp WHO God is and grow in love with Him every day.
Ephesians 3:20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Chirst Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
1Corinthians 2:7-11 No, we speak of God's secret wisdom, a wisdom that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it, for it they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him" - but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man's spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.
Take Care and God bless
As I was singing the words to the hymn "Wonderous, Marvelous" in church, I guess my focus was clearly not worship, because I began to think about how inadequate those words were to describe an indescribable God.
Are there ANY words in the English language that could clearly define Him? I mean, I use "marvelous" to describe a breathtaking sunset, or a star filled night, and "wonderous" to describe a sea of flowers in bloom, or the birth of a healthy baby, but these are the same simple words that I am using to describe The GOD that created such moments...it just does not seem fitting.
Are there really even any words fit to describe God? Any word that I could use to describe Him and His attributes are limited by my understanding of Him. And how can I truly understand One that is out of the human realm...GOD!
In Paul's letter to the Ephesians he pens a prayer that the Ephesians may comprehend the measure of the love of Christ. Love. Just ONE attribute of our God, and Paul is praying that they can understand it.
I guess that is why I love reading about what God says about Himself. In Job 38 and 39 God draws a perspective for Job and it begins in 38:4 when He asks "Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand. 38:1 describes the Lord as answering Job out of the storm. I can only imagine how vulnerable, fearful, and humble Job felt at this moment knowing first hand how small he was and how BIG his God was.
Personally I forget how really BIG my God is from time to time, how truly BIG my God is. When faced with what I would determine a "crisis" in my life, I forget that my God, my BIG God can change circumstances if He so chooses.
Paul continues in his letter to the Ephesians 3:20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us,...Immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine....God is MORE than ANYTHING we can imagine...MORE, because how can a human mind comprehend that which is of GOD.
Recently at our weekly bible study, a son from one couple asked our group about why he should read the bible. I immediately felt empathy for this young man, as I remembered when I too, went through the struggle of the authenticity of the bible, a very common stumbling block for anyone wanting to know the truth about God, and one that only the Holy Spirit can break through.
Just as indescribable as God is...are the things of God. How can a mere man explain the things of God?
Although penned by men, the bible was written by God, every word, every punctuation. By God, about God. Which makes many parts of it incomprehendable to man. How is it that we are to understand the things of God?
In 1Corinthians 2 Paul explains that nothing of God, can be understood by man except through the Spirit of God. Paul continues to write in 1Corinthians 2:14 - The man without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned.
As I continue to reflect upon the nature of God, I know that there is no source, except for the Bible where He can reveal Himself more clearly and truthfully.
The author of the majority of the New Testament from an earthly standpoint had more to lose than gain when his life changed 180 degrees. Paul, formerly Saul, was intent on destroying the followers of Jesus, and was responsible for many persecutions until he had a dramatic life changing moment. To this day we, as a result of his conversion, have benefited from his books in the Bible. As for questioning the Bible's authenticity, that is a journey that without the Spirit of God, will lead to a "dead end".
My prayer for you is that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Ephesians 3:17b-19 and that you will be able to grasp WHO God is and grow in love with Him every day.
Ephesians 3:20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Chirst Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
1Corinthians 2:7-11 No, we speak of God's secret wisdom, a wisdom that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it, for it they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him" - but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the man's spirit within him? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.
Take Care and God bless
Perception/Love
"Mom! Come QUICK!!"
As a mom, this phrase, especially when expressed with excited urgency, always seems to ignite a feeling of "Okay Lord, let's go face this together..."
Today was no exception.
I grabbed my coat and raced up the hill to the barn where my daughter was excitedly pointing. "Over there!..Look over there!"
I turned in the direction she was pointing and not more than 60 feet away stood the most magnificent creature I had seen in a long time.
I stood, not wanting to take my eyes from him because I knew in a moment, with all of the commotion his presence was causing, that he would take flight.
His large pointed ears sat perfectly on his beautiful silver gray head and from where I stood, I could just make out the copper highlights lacing his strong front legs.
I have never had the opportunity to see a coyote in his element for so long and so close. He was beautifully filled out and more closely resembled his cousin the wolf than the scrawny and scrappy animal I had envisoned a coyote to be.
He playfully danced as drops of water fell onto him from the tree branch above, by his behavior, I assumed he couldn't be very old. Why on earth would he be here for so long, allowing us to take in his gorgeous presence?
He playfully pawed at the ground in front of him. His simple action caused my skin to crawl and I felt anger boil inside of me.
In a quick moment my perception of this beautiful animal changed and I now saw him as an eager predator of easy prey. Was that Tigger at his feet?
Our cats have always been dog savy, having two of their own they knew how to handle them, however a coyote certainly had other intentions that they probably weren't aware of.
"Chase! Bring your gun!
I had to get this animal away from my helpless cat.
Just then he turned and raced away through the underbrush. I ran up to where he had stood and immediately felt foolish for my assumption. This playful pup had been toying with a piece of styrofoam!
Maybe my cats ARE smarter than I give them credit for....
Perceptions, assumptions, prejudices, judgements, when used with wisdom are life saving tools however, I find that most times they are misused to negatively influence my behavior toward others.
In John 15:12-13 Jesus says: My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
Not only does He command us to love those that are easy to love, but he commands us also in Matthew 5:44 to love our enemies: But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
God in His infinite wisdom knows me throughout, I am His creation. He knows that my simple act of obedience in praying for my enemies allows Him to work through me, changing my perceptions and negative thoughts. It requires no action on the part of my enemy, but a complete 180 in me. God knows what this is like because He lives it every day.
God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8
God in His perfection cannot be in the presence of sin and yet His love is so deep for us the sin filled, He created a way that we can exist with Him for all eternity. He loves us even though we're not and can never be, perfect like Him!
It amazes me how one small remark, action, glance, can affect another.
I once heard someone say to their child, "You would make an effort to pet a puppy on the street, how much more important is a human." Those words of wisdom have stayed with me to this day. How much more important is the person I pass on the street? How much effort does it take on my part to make eye contact, smile, and say hello?
My most memorable personal experience of this was, believe it or not, in my teen years. I had just had a devastating break up with the man that would, unbeknownst to me, eventually become my husband of 20+ years. I was walking through the Salt Lake City Airport, my countenance very low, my head to the ground, when I heard "hello" from a passing stranger. What?! I looked up into a smiling face. I heard it again from another as I walked, and again as I made my way to my gate.
The affect these strangers had on me was unforgettable, I was at a low point in my life and here complete strangers took the time to acknowlege me. "Love letters from God" is what I've labeled them. The dark times when God's love shines through. God's personal signature of His love on my life.
So why let my perceptions, assumptions, prejudices, judgements of other people get in God's way? Who am I to allow this? Instead I need to look at people through God's eyes. I need to Love with God's heart, and use every opportunity to acknowlege God's creation with His love.
I guess this of course also applies when I'm driving... :)
My prayer for you is that you too will experience the joy of loving God's precious creature made in His own image. That by setting perceptions and predjudices aside, you will see humankind through God's eyes, with God's love.
Take care and God bless.
As a mom, this phrase, especially when expressed with excited urgency, always seems to ignite a feeling of "Okay Lord, let's go face this together..."
Today was no exception.
I grabbed my coat and raced up the hill to the barn where my daughter was excitedly pointing. "Over there!..Look over there!"
I turned in the direction she was pointing and not more than 60 feet away stood the most magnificent creature I had seen in a long time.
I stood, not wanting to take my eyes from him because I knew in a moment, with all of the commotion his presence was causing, that he would take flight.
His large pointed ears sat perfectly on his beautiful silver gray head and from where I stood, I could just make out the copper highlights lacing his strong front legs.
I have never had the opportunity to see a coyote in his element for so long and so close. He was beautifully filled out and more closely resembled his cousin the wolf than the scrawny and scrappy animal I had envisoned a coyote to be.
He playfully danced as drops of water fell onto him from the tree branch above, by his behavior, I assumed he couldn't be very old. Why on earth would he be here for so long, allowing us to take in his gorgeous presence?
He playfully pawed at the ground in front of him. His simple action caused my skin to crawl and I felt anger boil inside of me.
In a quick moment my perception of this beautiful animal changed and I now saw him as an eager predator of easy prey. Was that Tigger at his feet?
Our cats have always been dog savy, having two of their own they knew how to handle them, however a coyote certainly had other intentions that they probably weren't aware of.
"Chase! Bring your gun!
I had to get this animal away from my helpless cat.
Just then he turned and raced away through the underbrush. I ran up to where he had stood and immediately felt foolish for my assumption. This playful pup had been toying with a piece of styrofoam!
Maybe my cats ARE smarter than I give them credit for....
Perceptions, assumptions, prejudices, judgements, when used with wisdom are life saving tools however, I find that most times they are misused to negatively influence my behavior toward others.
In John 15:12-13 Jesus says: My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
Not only does He command us to love those that are easy to love, but he commands us also in Matthew 5:44 to love our enemies: But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,
God in His infinite wisdom knows me throughout, I am His creation. He knows that my simple act of obedience in praying for my enemies allows Him to work through me, changing my perceptions and negative thoughts. It requires no action on the part of my enemy, but a complete 180 in me. God knows what this is like because He lives it every day.
God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8
God in His perfection cannot be in the presence of sin and yet His love is so deep for us the sin filled, He created a way that we can exist with Him for all eternity. He loves us even though we're not and can never be, perfect like Him!
It amazes me how one small remark, action, glance, can affect another.
I once heard someone say to their child, "You would make an effort to pet a puppy on the street, how much more important is a human." Those words of wisdom have stayed with me to this day. How much more important is the person I pass on the street? How much effort does it take on my part to make eye contact, smile, and say hello?
My most memorable personal experience of this was, believe it or not, in my teen years. I had just had a devastating break up with the man that would, unbeknownst to me, eventually become my husband of 20+ years. I was walking through the Salt Lake City Airport, my countenance very low, my head to the ground, when I heard "hello" from a passing stranger. What?! I looked up into a smiling face. I heard it again from another as I walked, and again as I made my way to my gate.
The affect these strangers had on me was unforgettable, I was at a low point in my life and here complete strangers took the time to acknowlege me. "Love letters from God" is what I've labeled them. The dark times when God's love shines through. God's personal signature of His love on my life.
So why let my perceptions, assumptions, prejudices, judgements of other people get in God's way? Who am I to allow this? Instead I need to look at people through God's eyes. I need to Love with God's heart, and use every opportunity to acknowlege God's creation with His love.
I guess this of course also applies when I'm driving... :)
My prayer for you is that you too will experience the joy of loving God's precious creature made in His own image. That by setting perceptions and predjudices aside, you will see humankind through God's eyes, with God's love.
Take care and God bless.
WHAT on EARTH am I here For
I couldn't hug her long enough.
As she passed through security I couldn't help thinking that two months would be an incredibly long time before I saw my oldest daughter, a young 19 years old, again.
The holidays were going to be empty without her. The hardest part for me was, she wasn't just going to another part of the States, she was going to another part of the WORLD, by HERSELF. It is always easy to SAY that I have faith, but I guess I seldom put myself in the position where it will be tested. My faith now, was and still is, being tested.
Our dearest friends had moved back to South Africa three years prior, leaving us with the familiar empty feeling I was now experiencing. My daughter, like the rest of us, had the desire to visit them from the moment they left, but it was only now that one of us was actually doing it.
I was now faced with the realization that it was NOT because of me that she has seen 19 years come and go, it was because Someone far greater, Someone with a much greater love for her, Someone with a purpose for her life, and that Someone was going to see that the purpose was fulfilled. My responsibility now was to trust Him and encourage her to follow where He was leading, as hard as it was for this selfish mother to do.
I have several favorite scripture passages, in fact, when one comes to mind I always think " oh, that one is my favorite", but one of my MOST favorite is found in Psalms, written by King David, a man after God's own heart. It is a beautiful description of the great love that God has for His people. A complete foreknowledge of each individual being created to be who they are by the work of loving hands.
It is as follows: O Lord, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely , O lord, You hem me in- behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.
Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.
If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfuly made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. When I awake, I am still with you. Psalm 139:1-18
Our God is a God of plan and purpose. There is not one of us that does not have a part in his perfect plan. He has created each of us with talents and gifts that only when we use these for His glory are we fulfilled. Sometimes we are asked to sacrifice according to His purpose. When thinking about it though, there is no greater sacrifice than what has already occured. Jesus Christ gave up His own life so that all humanity, I and everyone that I love that acknowledges Him, will live with Him for all eternity. Everything that has happened, has because He has allowed it, NOTHING takes place without His command.
It is easy to go day to day in routine without thinking much about purpose. It is when hit with a tragedy, a disruption in routine, a crossroads, when forced to think WHO am I?
A common cop-out for lack of a better term, okay excuse, used is "what can I do to make a difference anyway?".
This misconception I commonly think of as a thread of deception from the enemy and totally belittles the importance God places on each individual life.
There was a movie a few years back in which the premise was the entire human race would be wiped out by one virus, one by one as we interacted with one another, with the thought that we are all connected.
For example, if I were to say something to everyone I knew and each of those people said the same thing to everyone they knew, etc., soon the entire world would have the message.
This idea really is not far from the truth. My actions or inactions DO have an effect on others. I DO make a difference.
Psalm 138:8 The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O Lord, endures forever-do not abandon the works of your hands.
The Lord hs created each of us with a plan and a purpose and through our actions we are blessed, but we are not asked to do this alone. He is there to guide and direct us. Another untruth commonly used is "God is too busy", now I do not EVEN know who generated this misconception but again it is an effective tool of the enemy.
Seriously, how can a God who created the universe and desires a relationship with his creation not have time for His beloved?
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all you heart. Jeremiah 29:11-13
I think of all of this while my daughter is half a world away, out of my reach but still in His hands and I think of what a comfort it is that it is He that is protecting her and not me.
As we continue to devote time to Him in prayer and praise, my prayer for you is that if you find yourself in a place where your faith is tested that you trust God completely, trust that He knows you completely, knows your thoughts, fears, anxieties, dreams, and is there with you through everything.
Take care and God bless.
As she passed through security I couldn't help thinking that two months would be an incredibly long time before I saw my oldest daughter, a young 19 years old, again.
The holidays were going to be empty without her. The hardest part for me was, she wasn't just going to another part of the States, she was going to another part of the WORLD, by HERSELF. It is always easy to SAY that I have faith, but I guess I seldom put myself in the position where it will be tested. My faith now, was and still is, being tested.
Our dearest friends had moved back to South Africa three years prior, leaving us with the familiar empty feeling I was now experiencing. My daughter, like the rest of us, had the desire to visit them from the moment they left, but it was only now that one of us was actually doing it.
I was now faced with the realization that it was NOT because of me that she has seen 19 years come and go, it was because Someone far greater, Someone with a much greater love for her, Someone with a purpose for her life, and that Someone was going to see that the purpose was fulfilled. My responsibility now was to trust Him and encourage her to follow where He was leading, as hard as it was for this selfish mother to do.
I have several favorite scripture passages, in fact, when one comes to mind I always think " oh, that one is my favorite", but one of my MOST favorite is found in Psalms, written by King David, a man after God's own heart. It is a beautiful description of the great love that God has for His people. A complete foreknowledge of each individual being created to be who they are by the work of loving hands.
It is as follows: O Lord, you have searched me and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely , O lord, You hem me in- behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.
Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.
If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.
For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfuly made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. When I awake, I am still with you. Psalm 139:1-18
Our God is a God of plan and purpose. There is not one of us that does not have a part in his perfect plan. He has created each of us with talents and gifts that only when we use these for His glory are we fulfilled. Sometimes we are asked to sacrifice according to His purpose. When thinking about it though, there is no greater sacrifice than what has already occured. Jesus Christ gave up His own life so that all humanity, I and everyone that I love that acknowledges Him, will live with Him for all eternity. Everything that has happened, has because He has allowed it, NOTHING takes place without His command.
It is easy to go day to day in routine without thinking much about purpose. It is when hit with a tragedy, a disruption in routine, a crossroads, when forced to think WHO am I?
A common cop-out for lack of a better term, okay excuse, used is "what can I do to make a difference anyway?".
This misconception I commonly think of as a thread of deception from the enemy and totally belittles the importance God places on each individual life.
There was a movie a few years back in which the premise was the entire human race would be wiped out by one virus, one by one as we interacted with one another, with the thought that we are all connected.
For example, if I were to say something to everyone I knew and each of those people said the same thing to everyone they knew, etc., soon the entire world would have the message.
This idea really is not far from the truth. My actions or inactions DO have an effect on others. I DO make a difference.
Psalm 138:8 The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O Lord, endures forever-do not abandon the works of your hands.
The Lord hs created each of us with a plan and a purpose and through our actions we are blessed, but we are not asked to do this alone. He is there to guide and direct us. Another untruth commonly used is "God is too busy", now I do not EVEN know who generated this misconception but again it is an effective tool of the enemy.
Seriously, how can a God who created the universe and desires a relationship with his creation not have time for His beloved?
For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all you heart. Jeremiah 29:11-13
I think of all of this while my daughter is half a world away, out of my reach but still in His hands and I think of what a comfort it is that it is He that is protecting her and not me.
As we continue to devote time to Him in prayer and praise, my prayer for you is that if you find yourself in a place where your faith is tested that you trust God completely, trust that He knows you completely, knows your thoughts, fears, anxieties, dreams, and is there with you through everything.
Take care and God bless.
For Such a Time as This
When looking to purchase our property, we wanted to get a better idea of the "lay of the land". Would it be adequate for pasture?
It was completely invaded by blackberry and other wild undergrowth, so to get a better idea we would have to hike it.
So on a 90+ degree August afternoon with three young children in tow, we started on our way down the hill, crawling over fallen trees and pushing through underbrush(poor realtor).
OW! OW! OW!
My city children were unaccustomed to the assult of nettle and one by one , retreated up the hill to the coolness of the car, followed closely by their mother. It would not be until years later that I would learn that the remedy for the painful stinging nettle was just within arms reach in the form of the beautiful Sword Fern.
"Just rub the spores on the rash" I was informed by an 8 year old "day camper".
I thought, now isn't that the way our good Lord works...the answer to our problems is most likely just within arms reach.
I was sitting in a church service one Sunday years ago, listening to the pastor talking about favorite quotes that are actually NOT in the bible.
"Cleanliness is next to godliness" is NOT in the bible!
Keeping house with active children "company clean" is not generally the term that would correctly define the condition of my house most of the time, so I was thrilled to know it didn't effect my "godliness".
This thought however, was contrary to what I've since learned about our God of purpose and order. Just wading through the Old Testament, story upon story describes perfect examples of our Lord of purpose and order.
From the order of the creation of the universe, His explicit detailed instruction to Noah in the building of the ark, His detailed instruction to Moses in the building of the temple.
Everything and EVERYONE by His grand design has purpose and order.
So if I wanted to imitate the character of my Lord, I would have to learn how to become more orderly, a continuing work in progress, and purpose...isn't THAT the age old question...WHAT IS MY PURPOSE?
As a Mom, I know my main purpose and ministry is that of praying for and raising my children into godly men and women that honor and serve God.
I am eternally grateful for my own mother who introduced me to Jesus at a young age and since, has spent countless hours in prayer over me, and I believe wholeheartedly in Jacki Onassis' wise words, "If you bungle raising your children, I don't think whatever else you do well matters very much."
I think of the godly mothers that raised the powerful men of the bible; Mary the mother of Jesus, Sarah the mother of Isaac, the Levite mother of Moses, Bathsheba the mother of King Solomon, Hannah the mother of Samuel, Elizabeth the mother of John the Baptist, to name just a few.
Then there is Esther.
Although not a mother at the writing of her book in the bible, I love the encouragement this book of the bible brings.
Here is a true love story of God for his people. The book of Esther is a description of a series of events that lead to the protection of God's people, this book illustrates perfectly the choreography that indeed, the Lord has placed us all in the times and areas we are in for a purpose, as described in Acts 17:24-27
"The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though his is not far from each one of us.
In this book, Esther receives encouragement from her uncle Mordecai in 4:14 "Do not think that because you are in the king's house you alone of all the Jews will escape. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?"
Esther, through the encouragement of her uncle, risked her own life to approach the king on behalf of her people.Mordecai's words ring true.
God's plans can never be thwarted by human decision. Not only was Esther blessed, but an entire nation through her.
As we learn more about the character of our Lord and try to imitate Him, my prayer for you is that you courageously live out the PURPOSE the Lord has planned for you wherever the Lord has placed you, and know that there most likely is a sword fern within reach but sometimes only He knows where it is, and if you are a mother, a special prayer for you, in your most important position, raising another life that honors God.
Take care and God bless.
It was completely invaded by blackberry and other wild undergrowth, so to get a better idea we would have to hike it.
So on a 90+ degree August afternoon with three young children in tow, we started on our way down the hill, crawling over fallen trees and pushing through underbrush(poor realtor).
OW! OW! OW!
My city children were unaccustomed to the assult of nettle and one by one , retreated up the hill to the coolness of the car, followed closely by their mother. It would not be until years later that I would learn that the remedy for the painful stinging nettle was just within arms reach in the form of the beautiful Sword Fern.
"Just rub the spores on the rash" I was informed by an 8 year old "day camper".
I thought, now isn't that the way our good Lord works...the answer to our problems is most likely just within arms reach.
I was sitting in a church service one Sunday years ago, listening to the pastor talking about favorite quotes that are actually NOT in the bible.
"Cleanliness is next to godliness" is NOT in the bible!
Keeping house with active children "company clean" is not generally the term that would correctly define the condition of my house most of the time, so I was thrilled to know it didn't effect my "godliness".
This thought however, was contrary to what I've since learned about our God of purpose and order. Just wading through the Old Testament, story upon story describes perfect examples of our Lord of purpose and order.
From the order of the creation of the universe, His explicit detailed instruction to Noah in the building of the ark, His detailed instruction to Moses in the building of the temple.
Everything and EVERYONE by His grand design has purpose and order.
So if I wanted to imitate the character of my Lord, I would have to learn how to become more orderly, a continuing work in progress, and purpose...isn't THAT the age old question...WHAT IS MY PURPOSE?
As a Mom, I know my main purpose and ministry is that of praying for and raising my children into godly men and women that honor and serve God.
I am eternally grateful for my own mother who introduced me to Jesus at a young age and since, has spent countless hours in prayer over me, and I believe wholeheartedly in Jacki Onassis' wise words, "If you bungle raising your children, I don't think whatever else you do well matters very much."
I think of the godly mothers that raised the powerful men of the bible; Mary the mother of Jesus, Sarah the mother of Isaac, the Levite mother of Moses, Bathsheba the mother of King Solomon, Hannah the mother of Samuel, Elizabeth the mother of John the Baptist, to name just a few.
Then there is Esther.
Although not a mother at the writing of her book in the bible, I love the encouragement this book of the bible brings.
Here is a true love story of God for his people. The book of Esther is a description of a series of events that lead to the protection of God's people, this book illustrates perfectly the choreography that indeed, the Lord has placed us all in the times and areas we are in for a purpose, as described in Acts 17:24-27
"The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though his is not far from each one of us.
In this book, Esther receives encouragement from her uncle Mordecai in 4:14 "Do not think that because you are in the king's house you alone of all the Jews will escape. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?"
Esther, through the encouragement of her uncle, risked her own life to approach the king on behalf of her people.Mordecai's words ring true.
God's plans can never be thwarted by human decision. Not only was Esther blessed, but an entire nation through her.
As we learn more about the character of our Lord and try to imitate Him, my prayer for you is that you courageously live out the PURPOSE the Lord has planned for you wherever the Lord has placed you, and know that there most likely is a sword fern within reach but sometimes only He knows where it is, and if you are a mother, a special prayer for you, in your most important position, raising another life that honors God.
Take care and God bless.
Life on the Farm
Well life on a farm is kinda laid back ain't much an old country boy that he can't hack, it's early to rise... early in the sack, THANK GOD I'm a country boy!..one of my favorite songs when I was a kid and I'm not sure of the true lyrics but that is how it sounded when I sang it.
"It's got a good beat" as they would say on Bandstand (now I'm really dating myself)
Well life on a farm is kinda laid back...I think of that song now and wonder if John Denver ever actually LIVED on a farm.
Years have passed since we have made this "dream" farm our home and although I cannot remember a time where there was not a minute in the day that was not work filled, I would not trade it for another place in the world.
A couple years ago, my son and I were walking from a friends house in silence, I was taking in the beautiful scenery before me when my thoughts were interrupted with "Mom, I don't ever want to move." Although I had the same thoughts, that simple sentence sparked a wonderful discussion about contentment and obedience.
We talked about how contentment is a gift from God, how important obedience is, and if we were ever told by God to move, we would have to obey.
Knowing the importance of glorifying God wherever we are, if we were suppose to go someplace else to do it, then that is what we would do. Also knowing that when He tells us to move on, it is because better things lie ahead. And our obedience, like our disobedience, not only affects us, but can have lasting affects on people we know and don't know.
For years, it has been my heart desire to share what the Lord has been teaching me, not only with my own children but to whomever(I never really paid attention at this part in school so I don't know if the correct form is whoever or whomever so there it is).
I believe that life lessons are much too valuable to die with us but the wisdom learned from them needs to be passed on.
While we enjoy this season of our lives on "The Farm" my prayer for you is that you too are enjoying the blessing of contentment wherever you are (if not, pray for contentment, or clarity as the Lord may have placed in you another desire), are obedient to Him, and are glorifying Him wherever you are.
But godliness with contentment is great gain. 1Timothy 6:6
Numbers 11:1-9(the ungratefulness of the children of Israel for God's provision)
10th commandment- do not covet, wanting what is not yours is not being grateful for what the Lord has blessed you with.
Take care and God bless
"It's got a good beat" as they would say on Bandstand (now I'm really dating myself)
Well life on a farm is kinda laid back...I think of that song now and wonder if John Denver ever actually LIVED on a farm.
Years have passed since we have made this "dream" farm our home and although I cannot remember a time where there was not a minute in the day that was not work filled, I would not trade it for another place in the world.
A couple years ago, my son and I were walking from a friends house in silence, I was taking in the beautiful scenery before me when my thoughts were interrupted with "Mom, I don't ever want to move." Although I had the same thoughts, that simple sentence sparked a wonderful discussion about contentment and obedience.
We talked about how contentment is a gift from God, how important obedience is, and if we were ever told by God to move, we would have to obey.
Knowing the importance of glorifying God wherever we are, if we were suppose to go someplace else to do it, then that is what we would do. Also knowing that when He tells us to move on, it is because better things lie ahead. And our obedience, like our disobedience, not only affects us, but can have lasting affects on people we know and don't know.
For years, it has been my heart desire to share what the Lord has been teaching me, not only with my own children but to whomever(I never really paid attention at this part in school so I don't know if the correct form is whoever or whomever so there it is).
I believe that life lessons are much too valuable to die with us but the wisdom learned from them needs to be passed on.
While we enjoy this season of our lives on "The Farm" my prayer for you is that you too are enjoying the blessing of contentment wherever you are (if not, pray for contentment, or clarity as the Lord may have placed in you another desire), are obedient to Him, and are glorifying Him wherever you are.
But godliness with contentment is great gain. 1Timothy 6:6
Numbers 11:1-9(the ungratefulness of the children of Israel for God's provision)
10th commandment- do not covet, wanting what is not yours is not being grateful for what the Lord has blessed you with.
Take care and God bless
It's Alright to Cry
"It's alright to cry, crying takes the sad out of you..."
This song, on the bright pink Marlo and Friends, Free to be You and Me album, was a fun one to sing to. In fact my sisters and I used to mock it as we sang, wiping pretend tears from our eyes with our fists.
As a child, I adopted the social belief that crying was a form of weakness and this belief has carried on into my adulthood. I allow myself to become embarrassed if my eyes well up either out of grief, joy, or another emotion.
Infants and small children use crying as a way to communicate their needs or frustrations without the use of words. Our natural response is to satiate the crying by meeting the need. Now that my children are older they cry for different reasons, however my response is still the same, to satiate the crying, which I have come to realize is purely selfish. For the truth is, seeing my children in an other than happy mood, is excruciating.
It is very painful for me to see anyone unhappy, and even more difficult for me when someone is grieving.
The bible teaches a different perspective on crying. In Ecclesiastes 7:3 King Solomon, the son of King David, noteably the wisest man in the world, says: Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenence the heart is made better.
When reading this piece of scripture, the words ring true, how cleansing a good cry feels! So maybe laughter is NOT the best medicine after all! The emotional release accompanied by the overflow of tears produces a rush of relief and well being!
In studying God's word, I know my belief that crying as weakness is flawed. Jesus, being God in the flesh, is the most powerful human to walk the earth. His pure ability to choose not to sin illustrates great strength, and yet in John 11:35 we see only two words in that place in scripture and yet they speak volumes. "Jesus wept."
Our Lord Jesus, with power over all creation, power over life and over death, wept with his dear friend as she mourned the loss of her brother. Jesus, knowing all things, knew that He would bring Lazarus back to life, yet he did not try to comfort his friend by telling her this. Instead, Jesus allowed Mary to mourn her loss and He wept with her.
Again in John 11:38 Jesus therefore again groaning in himself cometh to the grave.
Jesus, with a deep love for His people, felt their emotion and it moved him greatly, just as it still does today.
I think about how many times I try to comfort someone by telling them that everything will be "okay". Keeping my self distanced from the pain of emotion. Unlike Jesus, who by illustrating Romans 12:15 "Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.", today grieves when we grieve and rejoices when we rejoice.
In Luke 19:41 Jesus weeps over Jerusalem a people he dearly loved.In all gospel accounts, it is written that Jesus prayed in sorrow to God His Father the night before He was to be executed, but Luke 22:44 is the most descriptive. "And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground."
Jesus showed great emotion, knowing what He was about to face, a death unimaginable to us today.
Instead now of the feeling of embarrassment when my family sees tears streaking my face after a touching movie, I will praise God that He has created in me a sensitive heart that allows me to feel such emotion.
I praise Him too for His wise words He offers to us in His Holy Word the Bible. Because of His teaching through example, I know now that maybe the best way to comfort, is to allow myself to feel the pain of another, to offer a shoulder and to just cry too.
My prayer for you is that you too can be "Free to be You and Me..", free to laugh but especially feel the freeing release of a good cry.
I pray for a sensitive heart for you and that you can fully express the joys and sorrow in your life through the honesty of your emotions.
Take care and God bless.
This song, on the bright pink Marlo and Friends, Free to be You and Me album, was a fun one to sing to. In fact my sisters and I used to mock it as we sang, wiping pretend tears from our eyes with our fists.
As a child, I adopted the social belief that crying was a form of weakness and this belief has carried on into my adulthood. I allow myself to become embarrassed if my eyes well up either out of grief, joy, or another emotion.
Infants and small children use crying as a way to communicate their needs or frustrations without the use of words. Our natural response is to satiate the crying by meeting the need. Now that my children are older they cry for different reasons, however my response is still the same, to satiate the crying, which I have come to realize is purely selfish. For the truth is, seeing my children in an other than happy mood, is excruciating.
It is very painful for me to see anyone unhappy, and even more difficult for me when someone is grieving.
The bible teaches a different perspective on crying. In Ecclesiastes 7:3 King Solomon, the son of King David, noteably the wisest man in the world, says: Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenence the heart is made better.
When reading this piece of scripture, the words ring true, how cleansing a good cry feels! So maybe laughter is NOT the best medicine after all! The emotional release accompanied by the overflow of tears produces a rush of relief and well being!
In studying God's word, I know my belief that crying as weakness is flawed. Jesus, being God in the flesh, is the most powerful human to walk the earth. His pure ability to choose not to sin illustrates great strength, and yet in John 11:35 we see only two words in that place in scripture and yet they speak volumes. "Jesus wept."
Our Lord Jesus, with power over all creation, power over life and over death, wept with his dear friend as she mourned the loss of her brother. Jesus, knowing all things, knew that He would bring Lazarus back to life, yet he did not try to comfort his friend by telling her this. Instead, Jesus allowed Mary to mourn her loss and He wept with her.
Again in John 11:38 Jesus therefore again groaning in himself cometh to the grave.
Jesus, with a deep love for His people, felt their emotion and it moved him greatly, just as it still does today.
I think about how many times I try to comfort someone by telling them that everything will be "okay". Keeping my self distanced from the pain of emotion. Unlike Jesus, who by illustrating Romans 12:15 "Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.", today grieves when we grieve and rejoices when we rejoice.
In Luke 19:41 Jesus weeps over Jerusalem a people he dearly loved.In all gospel accounts, it is written that Jesus prayed in sorrow to God His Father the night before He was to be executed, but Luke 22:44 is the most descriptive. "And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground."
Jesus showed great emotion, knowing what He was about to face, a death unimaginable to us today.
Instead now of the feeling of embarrassment when my family sees tears streaking my face after a touching movie, I will praise God that He has created in me a sensitive heart that allows me to feel such emotion.
I praise Him too for His wise words He offers to us in His Holy Word the Bible. Because of His teaching through example, I know now that maybe the best way to comfort, is to allow myself to feel the pain of another, to offer a shoulder and to just cry too.
My prayer for you is that you too can be "Free to be You and Me..", free to laugh but especially feel the freeing release of a good cry.
I pray for a sensitive heart for you and that you can fully express the joys and sorrow in your life through the honesty of your emotions.
Take care and God bless.
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