Power, Love, and Self-Control

"I am not a product of my circumstances. I am a product of my decisions." -Stephen Covey

Many weeks ago in my personal life, I was blamed for something I did not do. If you have had this happen, you know it can be heart-wrenching. My first emotions were anger and hurt. I wanted to talk to those involved and make it clear that I was not the one that had done this. But, instead, I have been involved with an ongoing conversation with God about how to handle this. If I were to state my case to the persons who accused me, I will then put another dear person in the line of fire. I have sat down and written four separate letters trying to express myself, but each letter has been shredded before mailing. I continue to ask myself, "What is the true purpose of the letter?" Each time I shred the letter, I feel and hear God asking me, "Will confronting the situation help anyone? What is your goal?"  

Confrontation is tough for most of us. For years, confrontation ended in one of two ways for me. I would either cry and walk away because I couldn't handle it, or I would allow myself to get into an angry conversation where I felt terrible about myself afterwards sending me into a depressed state. Walking away was always easiest for me. I could hibernate and try to forget what happened, but let's be honest, that is difficult to do and really doesn't work. Anger never seems to solve anything. It is like a fire starter, and fire has one purpose to take something that was and change it to something different or destroy everything that once existed. Healthy confrontation is led by the goal to find peace. So, I have started asking myself these questions about confrontation before going into it, "What is the true purpose or goal of this? Am I seeking peace?"

Paul writes in 2 Timothy: 7, "For God did not give us the spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power and love, and self-control." NRSV Maybe God's message here is that we can't always be passive, but instead we need to go to Him for the power, love, and self-control to handle our lives in a way that brings Him honor and praise. For now, I am praying for God to give me the wisdom to trudge forward. I want to address the situation in a way that honors God in my thoughts, words, and actions. I will seek the power, love, and self-control He is expecting of me. As I move forward, let me be a product of the decision I make with His help rather than a victim of my circumstances.

Let us pray,

Gracious Father,

Help us seek Your purpose in all that we do. Guide us with wisdom to handle confrontation with dignity and strength. May the only power we seek is the power to be Your witnesses of peace.

Amen

Gentleness and Strength?

"Gentleness is strength under control. It is the ability to stay calm, no matter what happens."~Elizabeth George

Few people would equate gentleness with strength. The two seem to be opposites. Yet, I have to stop and reflect on those that have mastered the gift of gentleness. They exhibit strength coupled with vulnerability. I admire those who have this gift and strive to learn from their actions.

In the preschool classroom, we practice "calm" each day. As teachers, we seek calm when the children get too loud, unruly, or seem to have different ideas of how the day should progress. Together, we find strength in seeking and taking our entire bodies back to a calm reset. Deep breaths and uniting in hope to move forward together in a positive direction is really amazing to see in action. Harsh words and yelling are not needed. We need only to unite in calm through gentleness to accomplish the goal. 

In Philippians 4:5, Paul writes, "Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near." Yes, there it is: the hidden treasure. In our gentleness, the Lord is near! Our strength comes from the Lord, and when we practice gentleness we find His strength within us and guiding us. 

A pastor years ago reminded me that the Bible is the "Living Word" of God. We have all heard this, but do we stop and think what that really means? As we read and study the Living Word, it weaves its strength into our being. It can guide and shape us into more caring individuals. We are alive in Christ, and Christ is alive within us.

As we start each day, what a treasure to remember that we can find strength in gentleness.  Christ will help us find the "calm reset" whenever we stray from the path of gentleness. Christ blesses us to guide others as He guides us. Gentleness and strength are a winning combination to be a light for Christ. He is always near. 

Let us pray,

Heavenly Father, we thank you for guiding us to handle situations with gentleness. We trust that You will provide the strength we need, to be Your lights, in a world where your Living Word needs to be shared.

Amen

Life is a Beautiful Place!

"The longer I live the more beautiful life becomes." ~ Frank Lloyd Wright

When I was in my twenties and thirties, I rarely thought about the end of life. I didn't ever think about what my life would be like if my spouse passed from this world before me. Now, nearing retirement age, these thoughts do surface more than I would like to admit. As time continues to fly by, I sometimes find myself realizing that the decades of great health and carefree thinking may have passed and no longer exist. It's a new reality.

These new decades of living bring about a new love for life. I have come to appreciate the beauty in most everything from waking up to the smell and taste of the creamer flavor in my coffee to the amazing blessing of all the people my life intersects with each day. Learning to appreciate the many grace-filled moments that each day brings, has brought a new beauty to living life. Letting go of the worry about the little things that don't go right and celebrating the beauty of life changes the heart and mind. It seems the more gratitude and understanding the heart holds, the more beautiful life becomes.

Yes, there are days I feel annoyed with my own response or other's reactions, but at the end of the day, I have learned to hand it over to God and start fresh the next day. By turning it over, I let go of anger, resentment, and regrets. God changes these feelings overnight and somehow I can see differently from a new perspective about what evolved. I believe He is always at work molding me into a more caring person. Yesterday, I may have only seen the situation from my humanness, but God is helping me learn to see through His eyes.

Sometimes, we do have to let go of toxic people and situations in our lives. I believe that if you prayerfully ask God for guidance, he will guide you away from those people or things that aim to destroy His influence on your heart and mind. Leading a life filled with contentment and joy is about trusting God in all circumstances, even the tough ones.

So, now when I think about the end of life, I find inner peace. I don't know exactly what awaits in Heaven, but I do know that God has prepared a place for us to dwell with Him. In a recent conversation with my husband, we talked about our thoughts on Heaven. He told me that one thing he has no doubt about is that we will find complete peace. This brings trust and calm to my soul knowing that peace awaits. We both are assured that God will carry us through.

When Paul wrote the letter to the people of Philippi about their future lives with Christ, he included these messages written from Philippians: 3:13-15 "No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us. Let all who are spiritually mature agree on these things. If you disagree on some point, I believe God will make it plain to you."

So keep looking forward and appreciating the beauty in each day. Let's allow God to help us work through the disagreements and obstacles in our lives. He can help us see life from a new perspective. This new outlook that He will provide, is a life of gratitude and understanding that a beautiful life is all about depending on Him for the peace and joy we all strive to find in this earthly and promised eternal life through Christ.

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father,

Open our hearts and minds to see the blessings of life. Guide us through this life so we, too, can be your instruments that promote gratitude and understanding among all people. May we be blessed with the peace of knowing you are with us.

Amen

You Can't Stop Joy!

“Joy is not necessarily the absence of suffering. It is the presence of God.” ~ Sam Storms

When I was a  child, I remember the joy of watching television families celebrate Christmas. I always dreamed of being in one of those families. You know, the “perfect” family. I loved to watch and even feel the joy and closeness the families shared.

In reality, each Christmas, I knew I would have to survive the storm, so the joy of Christmas could arrive. Each year the company my dad worked for would have their Christmas party just two or three days before Christmas. I will just say that my dad always celebrated too much, and when he finally made it home, the storm before Christmas would blow in with a vengeance. My brother, sister, and I would dread the storm, but we always knew it would blow over just before Christmas arrived. Somehow the family always pulled together to imitate the “perfect” family Christmas.

As the years passed, I came to trust that the joy of Christmas could survive through any circumstances. It wasn’t about me finding joy, but rather about realizing that I can’t stop joy from coming to me. It finds me even in the darkness. Mary and Joseph had a quite a long and dark trip to that dingy stable. Yet, even in a stable, enduring difficult circumstances, joy was brought into the world through the gift of our Savior.
     
Life’s circumstances are not always fair, and the storms of life can break our hearts. Even in our darkest moments our Savior will keep sending us messages of joy even if we don’t feel like receiving them. He will always be arriving in our lives in unexpected places and even when we least expect Him.

I don’t believe the “perfect” family really exists. I’ve yet to meet one. I have however been blessed to know so many families that know how to pull it together because joy refuses to let go of us and is just so beautiful! The presence of God will bring comfort and joy not only at Christmas, but all through the year. We neeed only to get to know Him better and be willing recipients of all He wants to share with us. Yes, joy is truly the presence of God.

Let us pray . . .

Dearest Savior,

Thank you for the daily joy you bring to our lives. Give us hearts to recognize your presence and guidance. Help us be your conduits of joy in other's lives as well.

Amen

Who We Are Now . . .

"God knows how much I love you and long for you with the tender compassion of Christ Jesus. I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return."  Philippians 1:8-10 NLT

It happens every five years; the class reunion. The class reunion tends to bring about many different emotions. For the extroverts, it's exciting and fun to see everyone again! They laugh and reminisce about the great times they've shared.  The introverts, debate until the last minute if they will attend and possibly struggle with the fear and possibility of sitting alone in the corner while watching the extroverts enjoy the evening. Yet, the invitations lay on the counter of both the extroverts and introverts, and something deep inside entices and encourages most from each group to want to reply with a heartfelt yes. 

The one thing that both groups have in common is the want to be a part of a community. They want to be integrated into something bigger than themselves. They want to explore the world through the eyes and experiences of those that shared those high school halls together. In reality, I think most would like to sit down and listen to the journeys that have transpired in the years that have passed. Commonality and transparency of who they are now and how they got there would make for great conversations.

Brandon Heath sings a song called, "I'm Not Who I Was."  He is having a debate with God about where he was, the journey along the way, and where he is now. Two excerpts from the song go like this:

"I found us in a photograph
I saw me and I had to laugh
You know I'm not who I was
You were there, you were right above me
And I wondered if you ever loved me
Just for who I was"

"I wish you could see me now
I wish I could show you how
I'm not who I was.."

Maybe the real gift of class reunions is remembering who we were, the journey we've traveled, and the blessings of where we are now. Maybe it's an evening to share a little bit of all three parts of our lives. But at the end of the evening, what might be most important is that we all care about each other for who we are now, and together we are thankful to have shared pieces of the journey.

Our relationship with God may resonate like a class reunion. He knows everything we would like to hide away: the heartaches, the disappointments, the mistakes, the things we wish we'd never done or said, or the struggles within that still await. Yet, He wants every reunion with Him to be special and like a new opportunity to get to know the person we've become. He might have a laugh or a few tears with us about days gone by, or tell us to leave tomorrow's worries in His hands, but what He may be most interested in is who we are now, and not who we once were.

Gracious Father,
Thank you for the blessings of those that have been a part of our lives. Thank you for forgiving all our sins of yesterday, today, and tomorrow as you love us for who we are now in this moment.
Amen

If you would like to listen to Brandon Heath's song, here is the link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1ZgtCRO-KY

Looking Back . . .

Dear friends, use your most holy faith to build yourselves up even stronger. Pray with the help of the Holy Spirit. Keep yourselves safe in God's love, as you wait for the Lord Jesus Christ in his mercy to give you eternal life. Help those who have doubts. ~ Jude 20-22 ERV

The year 2016 is coming to a close and so often many of us journey down the memory lane of what the past year has brought into our daily lives. We look forward with anticipation and wonder of what the year ahead will deliver as we walk into the unknown.

A few years ago, I decided not to focus on only the year that had passed, but rather my life as a whole. I think of that young teenager filled with anxiety and depression and the strides she made to be healthy and whole. Little did she know that her life had been given one incredible gift that would lead her to a life she never dreamed of: the gift of faith in God. God had been there loving, teaching, and guiding. This one gift had the capability to show her that a life filled with joy and love was in plain sight, if only she trusted and had faith. 

Did that young teenager and maturing adult make lots of mistakes and cry many tears? Absolutely! Does she still? Yes, but these moments are now coated in God's Grace. This Grace comes along like the icing on the cake. When you give your best to bake a cake and it doesn't turn out the way you planned, somehow God's Grace comes along and reminds you with a little frosting, the mistakes inside the cake aren't really what is important. It's what you learned that will help you make a better cake next time that makes even the most messed up cake worthy of your time and effort. It's about forgiving yourself, too. God believes you can do better and He will help you believe that, too. It's about moving forward.

"Looking back" is a reminder that God has blessed us with a future that we are living each day. That in itself is a gift beyond measure. So, as you look back at 2016, take a voyage farther back in time. Your life, like mine, is being loved, taught, and guided with a God that always believes in us in all circumstances. My goal for 2017, is to please Him through my thoughts and actions. And on those days, when things don't go as planned, I will sit quietly covered in God's Grace knowing a new chance awaits me to diligently strive for a better tomorrow.

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for the daily treasures of life that You provide. As we move into a new year, may we be reminded that You are with us and counting on us in all circumstances. 

Amen

Deep Dark Secrets

"It's not easy letting go of someone you love. It's even harder when you know it's the right thing to do." ~ Unknown Author

I sit in church with my husband each Sunday morning with this deep dark secret. I listen to the sermons on forgiveness and loving everyone, and there I sit filled with guilt and confusion. I can't look the pastor in the eye because I know within me lies this destructive secret. I sink deeper into the pew. Can the pastor see the pain and agony that is enveloping my thoughts? 

The secret is what it is like to have lived an entire lifetime with an abusive family member who is toxic to my mental and physical being. Every time I forgive and try to move forward, I find myself in the same destructive pattern. So, how do I deal with the secret versus the Christian path I am asked to walk each day? The answer is complicated.

Often times, I find myself using this verbiage, "I haven't walked your walk, so I can only imagine how you feel." We all have our own walks, and honestly, I truly believe that relationships and hardships are so perplexing that no one can truly understand the heartache another experiences. However, God has provided us with empathy to try and understand the pain others feel. Empathy allows our emotions to visit places of the heart we may have never been or wish we will never go. It is really a unique emotion when you think about it. How amazing that God wants us to understand what others feel!

A few weeks ago,  I made a decision to sit up straight in church, and look the pastor in the eye. I hope my eyes now say, "Pastor, I have prayed and prayed over this situation. I have given my all, but I have had to hand this over to God because I can no longer handle the pain. I need to be physically and emotionally healthy, and I can no longer allow this person to destroy me. I have to let go. I can  forgive, but I can no longer set up the stage to be hurt again. Please forgive me for being unable to keep trying."

Carrying a secret is a heavy burden. The decision to let go of someone whom you love is never easy. So on those days when the pain is too much to handle, I find myself praying to God for this person who causes so much pain and asking God to help me deal with this painful decision I have had to make. Others may never understand, but God does, and I think that is what really matters. I find comfort in this verse from Matthew 11: 28, "Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest."    

Heavenly Father,

You know our hearts and intentions. Please help us work through the secrets and burdens we carry. Help us to look others in the eye knowing we gave our best with Your guidance.

Amen

What Does the Second Amendment Say to You?

"Now who will harm you if you are eager to do what is good? But even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear, and do not be intimidated, but in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and reverence."~I Peter 3:13-16a

The heartache of the senseless killings by predators using automatic assault weapons continues day after day. Is it safe to go anywhere anymore? Do we need to say good-bye to loved ones before we venture out our back-doors? Do we let fear change our lives? What can we do to change the world we live in? Many questions to ponder with no clear answers.

The second amendment of the constitution states, " "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed." Sounds a little dry and focused on the word militia. What is a militia? It can be defined as a well armed society seeking defense and protection. What happens when the enemy becomes part of the same society needing protection? Tough question!

I will use the disclaimer that my husband is a hunter. Yes, he uses a gun, and no, it does not frighten me to have guns locked in a cabinet in our home. For those that can't understand the mind of a hunter, you might be surprised to find that most hunters have an amazing love for nature. The environment and keeping the ecosystem balanced is an intricate part of keeping nature thriving and the majority of hunters follow strict regulations to help achieve this. If you eat meat of any kind, you might need to stop and think through what happens to animals before they are placed on your dinner plates. It's sad. Many animals are raised in conditions where they can barely move, fed food and antibiotics that help them grow as fast as possible so they can quickly be killed and marketed, and most never know the beauty of nature that God has created. When my brother and I raised a calf when we were kids that became our pet, you can't begin to imagine the heartbreak of seeing that calf go off to market. The deer my husband hunts live off the land eating what God has provided for them to thrive and have a good life. Two different ways to bring food to the table, but all animals are God's creatures.

Yes, we have the right to bare arms for protection, and to use for food on our tables. This brings me back to the 2nd Amendment of the Constitution. I don't believe that our forefathers ever thought about assault rifles that can kill dozens of people in minutes when the 2nd Amendment was written. Yet, somehow, we don't want that 2nd Amendment touched because it somehow takes away some of our power of which we feel entitled. I can tell you whole-heartedly that I am no longer afraid to say to anyone, "We need to do something!" Yes, we need to do what our forefathers did over 200 years ago, and say, "We the people, need to protect the people!" These forefathers weren't afraid to fight for the rights of the people, and we shouldn't be either.

God gave us all wisdom and intelligence to be loving children. When we see problems, we need to have courage to speak up when something needs addressed. Not using my voice allows me the comfort to hide from the problem, but I do have the "hope" inside of me that we together can become a more loving society. I cannot fear what others think of me as I decide to work toward the greater good and safety of the society my children and grandchildren will inhabit even after I am gone. So, we are all faced with the questions, "What does the 2nd Amendment say to me? What am I going to do about it?"

Heavenly Father,

Give us courage to stand up to help the innocent in our society. Grant us wisdom to know the difference between entitlement and what needs to be done for the greater good. And when others disagree with us, help us to focus on You and Your wisdom.

Amen

"Sort the Piles and Keep Moving Forward"

Let your eyes look directly forward,
    and your gaze be straight before you.
Keep straight the path of your feet,
    and all your ways will be sure.  Proverbs 4:25-26

Laundry really never ends. Even if the baskets are empty, the clothes on one's back will soon need washed. The first step in doing the laundry is the "sorting." It seems easy when you've done it for decades until you try to explain to someone else how to "sort" the laundry. It isn't as simple as putting all the same colors together. Most know that you can't put a red evening dress with a red towel because the materials are different. The red dress will be ruined as the towel fades streaks of a different red onto the dress. Yes, it takes a little knowledge and judgment to "sort" through the "piles" that have accumulated throughout the week.

Recently, I sat down with a friend to discuss a big decision on an employment possibility she might be making. If it were just the question that needed answered, it seemed to be an easy yes or no response. But, it was about so much more. This decision would affect an entire "pile" of different parts of her life. After much discussion, we listed all the ways this decision could change her life. Now, came the difficult part: making the decision. It's not always easy to "sort" it all out, but at some point she has to make a decision and move forward.

Sometimes answers aren't really right nor wrong. It's more about having faith and trust after one looks honestly at how the decision can affect their life, and then through prayer, asks God for direction. One has to keep moving forward. You can't look back and wonder if you had made the other decision how all the "piles" in your life might have come out differently. Just like the red evening dress and red towel, the decision to put like colors together seemed like a logical one, but you didn't expect the streaks to do such a number on the dress. The red dress may need replaced, but you never know what is waiting to take its place.

When you're faced with a big decision that affects the many "piles" in your life, remember God is there to listen. He is a forward thinking God. He is there to help you "sort" through all the decisions that are neither right nor wrong. So, the next time you're "sorting" your laundry; remember, use your knowledge and judgment and know that whatever happens you've got to keep moving forward as verse 26 in Proverbs 4 reminds us, "and all your ways will be sure."

Let us pray . . .

Heavenly Father,

Each day, we are faced with so many decisions to sort through in our lives. Remind us to turn to you and keep moving forward with your guidance.

Amen

"Decisions are the hardest thing to make,
especially when it's a choice between,
where you should be, 
and where you want to be." ~ Author Unknown

Choose Hope

"The Lord will display his glory,
    the splendor of our God.
With this news, strengthen those who have tired hands,
    and encourage those who have weak knees.
Say to those with fearful hearts,
     Be strong, and do not fear,
for your God is coming to destroy your enemies.
    He is coming to save you.”  Isaiah 35:2b-4

A desolate desert, no sign of vegetation, and no water for as far as the eye can see would send most of us into a panic and instill a fear within us that death awaits. In the book of Ezekiel and Isaiah 34 we read about God's disappointment in the behavior of his people and the wrath that awaits, but yet a gift of renewed hope is provided in Isaiah 35 for a future where rivers flow and vegetation even grows on mountains. God isn't going to give up on any of His people. His mercy is abundant. Life will be a beautiful place for future generations. The two images are on the opposite ends of the spectrum. One seems hopeless, and the other brings hope. 

Each day we read about the tragedies, heartache, and evil that enters into our society. At times, it might seem much easier to just give up and feel there is nothing that can be done to change the world that we live in. But then something triggers something deep inside of us. (I believe it is the Holy Spirit at work.) Our Pastor's sermon today was so beautifully presented; with tears in her eyes, she talked about the Syrian children that are washing ashore as they flee from the evil and conflict of their home country. The parents of these children want a more desirable life for their children. They are willing to risk it all for the possibility of hope for a better life. Maybe now that the images of dead children washing ashore are surfacing, we the people of the world will open our eyes and ears that the Syrian people need help and hope.

I think every day we choose either to have hope or to be hopeless. It starts early in the morning when we rise. We can decide to dwell on all that is wrong in our lives in the coming day, or have a plan of hope that we can make a difference through our lives. These heartfelt verses from Isaiah remind us that hope is abundant. With God's help we can let go of fear and be strong because God is coming to destroy our enemies. Sometimes the enemy lies within us. The enemy that tells us we aren't good enough, aren't smart enough, aren't capable of making a difference, etc. But, God tells us this isn't true. We have His strength behind us to accomplish small things and together we can achieve great things. His work has to be done through us. We are His lights in this world. Lights of HOPE!

In an obscure way, hope is a lot like a disease. You can spread it around, and others will catch it. The more you care about making a difference, others will too. How does hope survive in a world where it seems hopelessness could easily become the next super bug? It survives and regenerates every time we share an act of kindness in the life of someone else. Journal how you spread hope through kindness in your own environments. You might be surprised how the smallest gifts of hope and kindness multiply in ways you have never dreamed. Don't be afraid for God is with you. That's His promise to each of us.

Tomorrow and every day, when we wake up, let's all choose to thread hope through our day. Let's count on God's promises that we have the strength to overcome the fears and enemies that tell us we can't make a difference. 

Let us pray,

Gracious Heavenly Father,

Our hearts ache for those that face such evil and enemies in their lives. Help us to not only help fight these enemies, but also the enemies within us. Give us the aptitude to believe that with Your help, we will be a conduit of hope to others.

Amen

Investing Our Riches

"Those who love money will never have enough. How meaningless to think that wealth brings true happiness! The more you have, the more people come to help you spend it. So what good is wealth—except perhaps to watch it slip through your fingers!  People who work hard sleep well, whether they eat little or much. But the rich seldom get a good night’s sleep.  There is another serious problem I have seen under the sun. Hoarding riches harms the saver. Money is put into risky investments that turn sour, and everything is lost." ~ Ecclesiastes 5:10-14a

Life can change in an instant! We have all heard this phrase and many of us have lived through life altering events. This past week, a story has made headlines that is living proof that one can never take for granted that the riches one accumulates can be stored and never taken away.

A dentist from the United States went on a safari hunt in Zimbabwe. The riches he had accumulated through his practice took him to the other side of the world with a reported hefty price tag of over $50,000 to hunt big game. He hired the best hunting tour guides to help him obtain permits and find what he hoped would be the kill of a lifetime. I won't share my opinion on the rights or wrongs of this hunt, but rather how one decision this dentist made can change everything.

During the hunt, in one second, one pull of the trigger, the dentist's life has been forever changed. The gun was pointed at a lion that the villagers held dear and loved. This dentist who had accumulated wealth and prestige, now finds himself loathed by the community he served and by people around the world. He has now become internationally disliked and perhaps a very lonely man. Even those that may support him may feel the pressure to stay as far away from him as possible so as to not show any association with him.

The Bible heeds warning about the destruction of storing riches. Solomon, who most believe wrote the book of Ecclesiastes, may provide some great advice for us all. He wrote, "There is another serious problem I have seen under the sun. Hoarding riches harms the saver. Money is put into risky investments that turn sour, and everything is lost."

Life's lessons can be tough ones. It's what one gains from the experiences that defines our character and faith in God. We can all fall into the trap of thinking that more money will be the answer to all our problems and provide so much for us, but in reality, we have to vigilantly understand that God watches closely how we use the gifts He provides for us. If we have a special talent, do we share it? If we have financial means that allow us to give more, do we? If we have extra time, do we use the time wisely? If we have the ability to pay it forward, have we jumped at the chance to do so? If we have the choice to condemn or grant grace and propagate peace, what do we choose in our relationships with others?

Maybe it isn't so much about having too much of anything, but maybe it is more about how we use what we are blessed to have in this life. Perhaps accumulated wealth of any kind that is used only for self indulgence isn't what God has in mind when he asks us to give our lives away for His sake. In Deuteronomy 30:20, Moses, may have said it best, "You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life. And if you love and obey the Lord, you will live long in the land the Lord swore to give your ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.” I think this verse sums it up very well.

So, regardless of how you feel about the dentist that shot the lion, remember that anyone's life can change with very little notice. If we live each day with Moses' advice, perhaps even when those devastating moments occur, we will know that we are never alone because we have invested our entire lives in a God that loves us unconditionally. If we keep our hearts in the right place with our Father, our riches will overflow into the right places as well.

Let us pray,

Gracious Father,

The world we live in puts an emphasis on obtaining riches and self-indulgence. Help us to understand that in You, we truly find the riches of life and how to share them to Your glory.

Amen

Remodel - Renew - Transform - Love!

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God - what is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:2 NRSV

If you've ever done remodeling in your home, you may have come to realize that the one main project you began with often leads to many other little projects. It's difficult to do one project without affecting another. Soon, one small project can transform a room into a new and inviting space that one couldn't envision when it first began.

Transforming our hearts may often have the same effect. For example when a person falls in love with a person they don't stop to think about all the things that are going to change in their own life because of that love. When I met my husband, I never dreamed that I would come to learn about so many different things. Not growing up in a sports-minded family, I didn't realize that one could literally find sports so appealing. I have learned the "basics" about football, basketball, baseball, hockey, and my favorites, tennis and golf. I didn't even know sports language when we met. I can't begin to list the multitude of wonderful things that loving my husband has taught me about this wonderful place called life.

As I grew in my relationship with Christ, I also didn't realize how my life was going to change. Even with my introvert personality and way of being, I "want" to grow closer to Christ. I care deeply about so many people and issues that I once never even thought about. I want to be an advocate for those who are less fortunate by helping in some way that God will equip me to provide for them. I want to be diligent in daily prayer knowing God hears every prayer. I feel called to be on God's fan list knowing what a great example He has set before me. Yes, I want to learn about and grow more in love with God each and every day. 

Renewing our minds is directly related to having open minds. It is difficult to renew a closed mind. A closed mind builds walls of arrogance and self righteousness. An open mind invites God in to transform us one day at a time to learn about His wisdom and carry out His teachings in our daily lives. Humbleness, empathy, and understanding are found in an open mind. So, keep an open mind in life because you never know what God has planned for you. Like a home remodeling project, you may start out with one main project, but God may have amazing smaller projects for you to fulfill. God can already see what we aren't even capable of envisioning!

Let us pray . . .

Heavenly Father,

As we live out our daily lives here on Earth, help transform our minds to carry out the projects you have set before us. Lead us where we need to go and equip us with the tools we need to make a difference, one life at a time.

Amen

The Blue Bag

Answer me quickly, O Lord; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me,
    or I shall be like those who go down to the Pit.
Let me hear of your steadfast love in the morning, 
    for in you I put my trust.
Teach me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul. 
     Psalm 143:7-8 NRSV

     Packed away in the closet the blue bag sits undisturbed. It isn't locked or zippered shut, but yet it seems impossible to open. The closet door opens and shuts, and a little part of me wants to peek inside, but the agonizing fact remains that for some reason I cannot bring myself to touch or open that blue bag. 

     The blue bag is filled with printed accomplishments, awards, and notes of gratitude and thanks. Yet, why does it seem so untouchable? After all, I have worked hard to obtain all the contents in the blue bag that once found a home in my office. Each says I gave my best and was recognized for my efforts.

     Maybe it's not what is inside the blue bag that is causing distress, but in reality it is the fact that the blue bag no longer goes on its daily journey back and forth to work. It has sat motionless for months. The blue bag had no idea that its last days were going to end so abruptly. I think in reality, the blue bag knew that the day was coming when I was going to say good-bye. It knew my principles couldn't allow me to continue the journey I was on. The heartache of no longer having a job that one loved and worked so hard to succeed at, is hard to explain until you have walked the walk.

     Sometimes, regardless of how much energy and dedication we put into something, we can find ourselves devastated in an instant. The shock and surprise can destroy the confidence and emotional stability. After all, how does one tell others that deep inside they feel like they have been defeated? Why did this happen? How does one move on?

     Today, I am reminded by the Psalmist that in the midst of my feelings of despair, that if I put my full trust in the Lord, that indeed, I will be led and taught to navigate a new direction in my life. I find comfort in knowing my soul can be lifted by a loving God.

     And most importantly for me to remember is that inside that blue bag is a reflection of the person I am. A person who strives to do their best in all circumstances. For those that care and call me friend and family, I have to trust that they look inside my heart and realize that I gave my best. The dormant blue bag gathering dust in the closet is a symbol that life is filled with difficult stages and in order to move on, one has to have faith in a God that is bigger than one's self.

     Maybe it's time to empty the blue bag and refill it with new accomplishments as I pray for a new direction. It will take courage and determination. I trust that God will lift my soul before it falls to the pit. 

Gracious Father,

     At times, our lives take twists and turns that confuse us. Thank You for the reminder that You can lead and teach us when a new direction is needed.Our trust is in You. Grant us the courage and determination to move forward in all circumstances. Help us learn from the journey and become stronger in faith as we turn to You.

Amen

Cave of Fear

But my eyes are turned toward you, O God, my Lord; in you I seek refuge; do not leave me defenseless. Keep me from the trap that they have laid for me, and from the snares of evildoers. Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I alone escape.  Psalm 141:8-10 NRSV

Maybe you have or haven't visited the Cave of Fear in your life, but unfortunately caves have an open door policy and you never know when you might be tempted to visit. The invitation to come in is intriguing and leaves even the most logical thinkers believing there could be no harm in going in and staying for a short visit. 

The Cave of Fear offers so many accommodations. You can crawl in and find safety from the outside world. Your basic needs to protect you from the elements are met, and you need only venture outside when hunger pushes you to leave the safety of the Cave of Fear.  In the darkness, you find comfort in knowing there are no mirrors to reflect the fearful person you have become. You begin to believe that you now belong to the Cave of Fear. As you think and dwell in darkness, your thoughts become even darker.

The sunlight streams through the entrance of the cave, but as the days go by, the sunlight is painful to the eyes and you find yourself gravitating deeper into the cavern rather than being drawn to the light. Eventually, there is only a glimmer of light in the distance. At some point, you must make a decision to go toward the light or let the darkness overcome all rationality that one once knew and collapse into a world where only you exist.

How does one find their way out of the Cave of Fear? The open door policy has not changed, and the exit has no door. It will take more courage to leave the cave than it did entering. It will take faith that a better world exists outside the dark and damp walls of this primitive way of life that you have made your home. Most importantly, to depart, one must leave a part of their own darkness behind to make room for the light. The darkest worries, failures, and sins of one's life must be left behind to bask in the warmth and glory of the light.

In Psalm 141, David found himself hiding in a cave from all the evil that was engulfing his life. He knew he had plunged into darkness and needed help. Mentally trapped in the cave, he cried to the Lord, "But my eyes are turned toward you, O God, my Lord; in you I seek refuge; do not leave me defenseless. Keep me from the trap that they have laid for me, and from the snares of evildoers. Let the wicked fall into their own nets, while I alone escape." God led David out of the dark cave and gave him strength and courage to face the worries, failures, and sins that existed in him and those in his life.

If ever you find yourself contemplating a visit to the Cave of Fear, never lose sight of the Light regardless of how faint or distant it may seem. The voice inside you need only cry out for help to our Heavenly Father, and He will help lead you toward the light where He will bless your life with love, community, purpose, forgiveness, and grace. You can leave the darkness of your life behind because existence in His Light will lead you far, far, away from the dark, damp, musty walls of the Cave of Fear. 

Let us pray . . .

Heavenly Father,

Help us each day to be attracted to the glory and gift of living in Your Light. Grant our hearts confidence that regardless of the dark situations that come our way, we are guided by Your Light and help us to not retreat to the Cave of Fear.

Amen

Seeing the Positive in Marriage through Perspective

"For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope. May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." ~ Romans 15:4-6 NRSV

In just over a week, my husband and I will celebrate our 37th wedding anniversary. I have been blessed to be married to a man that keeps Jesus at the center of his heart, because that love is reflected daily into my husband's love for me and our family. He truly loves me unconditionally. The years have passed by too quickly, and the memories could fill an encyclopedia set. I thought I would pass on some random thoughts about how over the years I have taken some daily situations in our marriage that I once saw as negative, and have grown to realize that there is a positive in most everything if one searches for it and truly trusts in the love of their spouse. 

Disclaimer before reading: We have very traditional roles in our marriage that has worked well for us for 37 years, so please take that into consideration. 

1. I often thought my husband rarely notices when I got my haircut and try to look by best. Then I started thinking about the fact, that he loves me with the hairdo I wake up with every morning and never notices. Grateful!
2. After cleaning the house all day, he comes home and doesn't seem to notice. Oh, but then he doesn't notice the days when he comes home and the house is in disorder. Thankful!
3. The miracle that occurs with his laundry where everything he wears appears back in his drawers and closet clean and smelling great seems to go unnoticed. However, he never has a discouraging word to say if something he needs is still in the laundry basket. Relieved!
4. A clean car may go unnoticed, and yet while on a shopping expedition the car may come home with a scratch or two, and he places no blame on my part and probably wouldn't notice unless I pointed it out to him. Indebted!
5. On those days when it seems the world is crashing down around me, he is there to hold me and reassure me that tomorrow will be a better day. He brings hope! Love!
6. In those moments when I am crabby and hard to love, he loves me anyway. Patience!
7. When I am sick, feeling helpless, and unable to function, he steps in and cares tenderly for me taking care of everything. Provider!
8. If I begin to not see clearly, he gently nudges me back to reality. Encouraging!
9. At times, I think my husband should read my mind and be able to do what I am thinking he should do, I find that if only I ask for help he doesn't hesitate to do what needs to be done. Realized he is not a psychic! Accommodating!
10. Last, but not least, on those days I feel unlovable, he makes me feel special and loved! Committed!

The list could go on and on. It is often the perspective we choose that brings such pain to our relationships. Mine is still in God's training class, but I am trusting what was written so long ago in the Bible to be my guide. As the verse from Romans above says, "For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, so that by steadfastness and by the encouragement of the scriptures we might have hope. May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." 

I have hope that God continues to mold me into a better wife with a loving perspective to share with my husband each day. I am beyond blessed, and that is my perspective of my relationship with my husband. 

Let us pray . . .

Loving Father,

Thank you for the gift of marriage. Remind us each day that a spouse is one of your greatest gifts. May we glorify you in our relationships with one voice in how we care for one another.

Amen

Knit One Purl One . . . The "Perfect" Plan

"I have one life and one chance to make it count for something . . . I'm free to choose what that something is, and the something I've chosen is my faith. Now, my faith goes beyond theology and religion and requires  considerable work and effort. My faith demands -- this is not optional -- my faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can with whatever I have to try to make a difference." 
~ Jimmy Carter

Just over a week ago, I pulled out my knitting needles excited about the prospects of weaving this hobby back into my life. The needles had set dormant for many years without even a hint of a stitch coming together. The first stop in getting started was picking out the yarn, and the motivational seed was planted; I was ready to get those needles twisting. With Christmas less than three months away, my mind was already planning all the gifts I could knit. I had the materials, the plan was in place, and I was willing and able to accomplish the goal. It all seemed like a simple plan to carry out.

Each day I knitted for two to three hours in the evening. Watching the beauty of the variegated yarn come together row after row brought a sense of accomplishment and joy within me. But, then, it happened. It came like a thief in the night. This new-founded joy was aggravating the joints in my fingers and right elbow. The pain had become difficult to manage, and now I sit wondering how long I can go on before either the pain subsides or the pain becomes  more intense disabling me from knitting a single stitch. How could this be happening? After all, I did everything right, or so I thought. I had my plans in place. I could already see the family gathered at Christmas with everyone opening their gifts, made with love especially for each of them. It seemed like the perfect plan!

Last night, as I laid in bed praying for those in need, I found myself whining to God about the pain in my joints and how this could ruin everything I had planned. But, as I pondered the disappointment,  I thought about the quote above from Jimmy Carter. You see sometimes we want so much to do everything we can, but in reality we have these stumbling blocks of illness, grief, sadness, sins, anxiety, etc. that inhibit us from doing everything we wish we could to please God and please others. It was as if God was sending a message right back to me during my prayers. I felt reminded from God that He isn't expecting perfection from any of us, but only the very best we can give each day. And, even on those days when we fail to give our best, we are covered in His grace and forgiveness. Now, that is a plan that seems much more workable.

In Romans 5:3 we read, "We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance." I have always had a little problem with the word, "rejoice" in that Bible verse. After all, most of us don't have a party to celebrate what doesn't go the way we planned in life. But, maybe, we can all rejoice knowing that in developing endurance and resilience when things don't go as planned, we are growing closer to God. We are learning to lean on Him at all times and in all seasons of our lives. That is definitely something to "rejoice" about.

So, as you go about your planning, remember that even when the threads of our lives become unraveled, as long as we do what we can when we can, God celebrates with us too. Meanwhile, I will knit what I can, when I can, and rest assured that regardless of how the plan turns out, I gave my best. And, that is truly what counts. 

Heavenly Father,

As we make plans in our lives, please guide us with your wisdom and grace. Let us rejoice in knowing that you delight in our existence and cover us with grace and forgiveness at all times.

Amen

The Problem With Those Little Vanilla Wafers

“And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things. These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need." Luke 12:29-31 NLT

Have you ever tried to eat just one or two vanilla wafers? I personally find it troubling. I honestly try, but the joy in eating these tiny cookies is something I continue to crave. The clear cookie jar sits on the counter almost daring me to eat just two more or five more! Once that first cookie enters my system, I find myself sneaking my hand right back into the jar. I tell myself this will be the last one, but then it happens; I can't resist just a few more. 

Craving something in life can be good as well as bad. A few months ago, I started reading more about the minimalist lifestyle, and I haven't looked back. I am coming to learn that some of my cravings in life are unhealthy and take away from the joy in life. The minimalist lifestyle is basically focusing on what in life brings you joy and basically getting rid of the things that only cause more work and cost (physically, mentally, emotionally, and materialistically) to one's life. My husband and I have always somewhat lived the minimalist lifestyle in many different ways in our 36 plus years of marriage. We try to make choices based on need rather than want. It isn't easy, but we do our best.  

Both of our adult children are in the process of moving and selling their homes. The one comment that comes up often is, "I didn't realize how much stuff has been accumulated."  Listening to these comments led me to a deep cleaning, and I was shocked to find how many things that are rarely if ever used have been piling up in my own home. A few trips to Goodwill brought great joy to me. Saying good-bye to things that take up space, need to be cleaned or cared for, and have no purpose in my life was much easier than I thought. I found great joy in having so much more room in drawers, closets, and cupboards!

As I looked at some of the treasures in the boxes, I realized that at one time I had probably purchased the item as a want rather than a need. Purchasing the item had brought me temporary joy, but in turn had brought a type of clutter into my life that took away from a greater joy. The greater joy of not being ruled by things.

I then took a look at my faith walk and the wants and needs I display when it comes to my relationship with God. I've decided a minimalist faith style is also an objective for me as well. You see, I often come to God with a lot of wants thinking they are needs. I yearn to be more focused in prayer and service of the needs of others and for myself as well. When I center my relationship around need, it becomes enriched because God knows what I need in all circumstances. He also knows what I want, but he can easily distinguish between the two. One helps me thrive while the other at times may add complicated dimensions to my life that include taking some of the joy of a more simplistic way of being away from me.

So, I have to admit that I will probably always love those little vanilla wafers because they do bring me joy. But, these are also a reminder that learning to eat just a few rather than half a box is a big difference. Eating half a box begins a new problem of weight gain and then weight gain causes other health problems all because I didn't know when to stop with just what I needed. I am in control of the decision, but I occasionally need a reminder. And what a blessing that Luke reminds us in verses 29-31 that God always knows just what we need.

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for providing for our daily needs. Help us to understand that sometimes the wants just get in the way of the joy of life, and most of all our relationship with you.

Amen

Hope Even When You Are Weak . . . . . . .

Jesus told them, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” Then he returned to the disciples and found them asleep. He said to Peter, “Couldn’t you watch with me even one hour? Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak!” Then Jesus left them a second time and prayed, “My Father! If this cup cannot be taken away unless I drink it, your will be done.” When he returned to them again, he found them sleeping, for they couldn’t keep their eyes open. So he went to pray a third time, saying the same things again. Then he came to the disciples and said, “Go ahead and sleep. Have your rest. But look—the time has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Matthew 26:38-47 NLT

Over a decade ago, my husband found himself facing the challenging reality that he would need to seek different employment after 28 years with the same business. It was heart-wrenching for him because he loved the work and the people he served in the community. Often one thinks the decision itself is the most difficult obstacle, but what followed was a test of keeping faith that God would provide hope even in some of the darkest hours that lie embedded in the days and months to come.

For over two years, the resumes went out, the interviews took place, and the hope that maybe "this will be the day" continued on. We devoted ourselves to praying for God's will to be done to help our situation. Those two years were two of the most difficult ones we ever faced as serious health issues arose and financial obstacles lined up one by one. We continued to pray even as our hopes and bodies were becoming weaker in believing that anything was going to change in our lives. We lived on a fraction of the income we had once enjoyed, but somehow survived even with two children in college. It didn't seem possible or logical that we were making ends meet, but somehow we were. Our life long commitment to not live on credit was a blessing.

My husband needed me to believe in him and to keep moving forward with hope. I was his personal secretary writing cover letters and tweaking that resume for each perspective employer. Toward the end of the two years, I will have to be honest in saying, my prayers were beginning to denote disappointment and perhaps even a touch of anger at God. After all, was God listening. We needed help of some kind. Was He sleeping on the job?

I read an ad one day about a job for my husband and briefly told him about it. He asked if I would send a cover letter and resume. I  told him that I would, but honestly, I didn't. I felt it was a waste of time and energy. I had lost hope in the situation. Fortunately, my husband still had hope. The next week he asked if I had sent it, and I replied that I hadn't done that, but I would. I'm sure you can guess how this all turned out. This was the job with the phone call that led us out of those two dark years and into a better future. 

As Jesus faced a torturous death, He knew that Peter would need to stay strong in spirit because the body is weak and gives in to sin. Jesus knew he could not escape the truth that would lie ahead. He was taking on all our sins in a way that we as humans cannot comprehend. Fortunately for all of us, Jesus knows our human weaknesses. It is because of this that we have hope in all circumstances. Even when we may feel He is sleeping on the job, we know in our hearts that He knows the excruciating pain of suffering and won't leave us to suffer alone. 

So, never give up on hope. Hang on to it even in the darkest days. But, in the moments when the body is weak, remember the Spirit is strong inside of us and will continue to give us the strength we need to move on to what lies ahead. The Spirit is filled with hope for you and for me.

Dearest Jesus,

The dark days we face are not a mystery to You. You suffered a torturous death that ended with eternal life at the right hand of the Father. Remind us that the Spirit within us will never leave us. If our bodies lose hope, we trust that the Spirit will hope for us.

Amen