Sunday, August 10, 2014

Clutter

Have you ever let a little housework slide only to be overwhelmed by clutter? I let some mail, catalogs, magazines, and books pile up in the den and our bedroom. I dealt with some of it today by placing items in a basket and immediately loading the basket and dog in the car so we could drop it off at a paper recycling bin. I survived without perusing the catalogs. So what...I did not copy recipes out of magazines. Great feeling as I dumped political candidates' postcards and letters into the bin. Books have been placed on shelves and in cabinets. Order is being restored.

Sin can be a bit like clutter, it usually creeps into our lives a little bit at a time with disastrous results.

In my daily Bible reading the past few days have been from the 1st 10 chapters of Jeremiah. I am participating in Anne Graham Lotz's Bible Study - Expecting to See Jesus. This week's study is from 2 Chronicles 34 about King Josiah. Both deal with sin.

Many churches do not talk about sin these days for many reasons none of which are Biblical. Sin like clutter can seem manageable until it overwhelms us. We must deal with it immediately and not let it reside in us.

Let the words of Jesus wash over you afresh today:

John 8:34-36 ESV

Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."

Saturday, August 9, 2014

Quiet

Southeast Texas' summer has been mild so far this year. The high temperatures have not climbed to 100, we've had some rain, could use more, but we are not in a severe drought. Thank You Lord!

By mid-August, I usually run out of energy and lose interest in being outdoors for any reason. This year, the summer doldrums arrived about a week early. Is there a way to participate in a 5K next Sat. without leaving my house?

I used to love the lazy days of summer, watching clouds, riding bikes, trips to the library, swimming at the YWCA, a day in Galveston. Ballet classes were during the day in summer, so there were plenty of evenings playing kickball, baseball, and hide n seek. When did I lose my love for summer?

Most of the housework is done, I've stacked a book, gardening magazines, and my Bible study workbook on the end table and plan to remain in the den for the rest of the afternoon enjoying the quiet while I read and study. No music, no TV, just the soft whir the ceiling fan and an a few birds singing.

The last several weeks the nightly news has been filled with stories of corruption, our government, economic woes, disease, chaos, and violence. If we do not take time to relax and rest, we will become weary, and will be of no use in the Kingdom. I hope these words bless you and refresh you:

Luke 12:22-34


And he said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest? Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you.

“Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.


Sunday, August 3, 2014

No One Knows

Jesus said,“But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only. For as were the days of Noah, so will be the coming of the Son of Man."

The Bible points to the signs of our Lord's return. I think sometimes we earnestly watch and other times we begin to doze and possibly fall asleep.

If you knew beyond a shadow of a doubt His return was scheduled for day after tomorrow would it influence:

How you spent your time?

How you shopped?

What you watched on TV, at the movies?

What you said in conversations?

If and how long your prayed?

Would you try to reconcile with estranged friends and family members?

If you cracked open your Bible?

If you turned from sinful behavior?

If you told people God loves them?

Friday, June 13, 2014

Thessalonians

Last October a friend wanted to return a Bible I gave her years ago to use in a Bible Study. She didn't have the version the study suggested. I went over to see her and pick up the Bible, I knew it was the last time I would see her here, it was nice to say goodbye, tell her one last time I loved her and treasured our friendship, and pray for her. She died a few hours later.

I finally worked up my nerve and looked at the pages she had bookmarked in the Bible. One was Psalm 121 which we memorized as part of the 1st Bible study we did together in my home.

I lift up my eyes to the mountains—
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord,
the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip—
he who watches over you will not slumber;
indeed, he who watches over Israel
will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord watches over you—
the Lord is your shade at your right hand;
the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;
the Lord will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.

She also marked many passages in the Gospels and I Corinthians, as well as placing sticky notes in I and II Thessalonians. The past week, I've been knee deep in I Thessalonians. (I am still in chapter 1.) Bittersweet in one way because I would prefer to have her next to me as we explore Scripture but edifying knowing what she read at the end of her race.

She highlighted this verse, may it bless you as it did me:

I Thes. 2:19-20 For what is our hope, our joy, of the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes? Is it not you? Indeed, you are our glory and joy.




Tuesday, June 10, 2014

Warrior

My cousin Bill is in the midst of treatment for cancer. He filled us in about his chemo today, he was in the chair from 11a to 5:15p, it was a long day.

He spends the time in the Word preparing lessons and talks to the nurses about faith and adversity. Bill is a warrior, his considerable experience in the military as well as his Christian walk have prepared him for battle.

He shared a story today about a dream/vision he had which brought me to tears. I so HATE to cry, but tears over what God does in someone's life or tears shed with friends as they cry are different. Somehow they are OK. Though it is hard to see the screen as I type and where are the Kleenexes when you need them?

Whatever you are going through now, remember God is with you. His Word tells us:

We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies.

I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world will not see me anymore, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live.

But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

And at last one day: He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.

If you feel far from the Lord, remember He is one prayer away, His arms are open, He is waiting for you. He loves you so much He gave His only Son Jesus to redeem you.



Thursday, May 29, 2014

Queen Bee

Back in August 2013, I convened a group of classmates to discuss our 35 year High School Reunion. My thought was to start planning and let someone else be the head of the committee. It did not quite work out that way. In retrospect, I should not have brought a calendar, notebook, or writing implement of any kind to the meeting! (Apparently everyone else knew this.) Somehow after the initial meeting I was appointed Queen Bee of the reunion. I've always been a worker bee and am fine with that because I have the tendency to take over and plan everything without asking for anyone's input.

As Queen Bee, I've become a people pleaser which I find stressful and tiring. Now I am like an out of control hall monitor chasing people down for their RSVP's and money. I've moved from e-mails to phone calls, next I'll be waiting at the end of the procrastinators' driveways as they attempt to leave for work one morning.

I am also downloading music from the mid to late 1970's to play at said reunion and find myself humming Stairway to Heaven and YMCA. Next I will want to munch on a sour apple Now n Later or see if I have toe socks in a box of mementos.

I am very much looking forward to seeing everyone as well as returning to my non people pleasing self after the reunion.

Hopefully my friends from days long gone will see Christ reflected in me and know though I rarely see many of them; I love them. And remember the Statute of Limitations has expired on any transgressions I committed during my years at school with them.

After a long winter, I hope this summer is a time of joy for everyone and filled with plenty of God moments.

For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

Monday, May 12, 2014

Happy Monday

Happy Monday...

Sometimes we receive news 1st thing on a Monday morning which takes the wind out of our sails. (And for a moment I thought I hate Monday!) Thankfully after a moment of "I hate Mondays.", my thoughts reverted to those of a daughter of the King - Today is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it. (If I received the same news on a Tuesday, would I say I hate Tuesdays? I don't think so.)

Everyday is a gift and I want to remember that and not become blasé about life and my time on Earth.

God is bigger than any mountain we face. His joy is my strength as I stand beside a loved one in battle. His mercy never ends.

Please join me in praising His holy Name!

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Transition

This time of year our yard is in transition. Many of the winter blooms (Pansies & Violas) are on their last leg, the Snapdragons, Delphinium, and Larkspur are not far behind them. The summer perennials and annuals are blooming, Verbena and Salvia are vibrant in their violet and red hues. Butterflies abound. I've seen one Hummingbird who may be summering here (I hope so.) or he may be resting before he heads north for the summer.

The transition is bittersweet because I love the winter flowers and I know HOT and HUMID days are drawing closer and closer. Life is filled with transitions, some are great some are so so, and some are downright terrible. However no matter how much life changes, God is always the same. He love endures forever, His Son promised He will be with us always. His Word tells us:

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies.

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.

For great is his steadfast love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever. Praise the Lord!

Thursday, April 24, 2014

Shock and Awe

My dog Shorty (named by his previous owner) loves to chase birds and catch various rodents. (NOTE: Most rodents are caught when the man is not home and most are alive when they are presented to me on the couch or on our bed.) I refer to Shorty's method as Shock & Awe because he bursts through the doggy door with every ounce of his being and pounces his way through the yard after his object of prey. Every being in the backyard knows he is on the way, there is nothing stealthy or subtle about him. His energy has amazed me since the man brought Shorty home from the rescue center almost 2 years ago.

I regret I do not have his energy, though I would pursue something other than birds or rodents. My energy has been lagging for some time now due to a couple of small medical issues as well as my Vitamin D level - a whopping 7 instead of at least 30. The doctor was not amused when I mentioned 7 was the number of completion - the number of God. So I am taking prescription Vitamin D for several weeks as well as other vitamins and minerals. I keep thinking one day, I will wake up and burst into the kitchen, pour a cup of coffee, hit the pavement running, well no - I don't really think that because I am not a morning person, but I do look with hope for the day I will feel well again. Meanwhile I wait gratefully because I am not seriously ill and I know:

God loves me.
His Word is true.
He will never leave me or forsake me.

I find the following verses from Psalm 103 a comfort:

Bless the Lord, O my soul,and all that is within me,bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits,
who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.



Friday, February 21, 2014

Olympics

Ever notice how every 4 years people are expert judges in figure skating, bob sledding, half pipe etc, speed skating, etc etc? Though I claim no expertise at Curling (even my own hair at times), I seem to have opinions on many other events myself; which led me to contemplating am I judging others though it is no concern of mine because I am not God. I've almost cut off a long time friend because each and every phone call is a one way conversation of her opinion on everyone and her opinions are never kind. I do not want to participate in conversations like that nor do I want to hear critical words concerning everyone in her life (also knowing she talks about me to others).

Being judgmental can be an easy habit to develop just like gossip and other horrible things. I've asked the Lord to show me my judgmental thoughts and words because I want to repent and be forgiven. I want to love others even if they do not love me and live out God's Word. I hope you do too.

Jesus said, “Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; 3 give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.”



Sunday, February 16, 2014

Waiting Room

A few days ago a friend collapsed while walking down the street and was unable to break the fall, as a result her face smashed into the concrete at full force. We were at the ER in 5 minutes. X-rays, a CT scan, and stitches were done and we were out of the hospital in 2 hours. Life Flite was cancelled because there were no fractures or brain injury. Thank You Lord!

All hospitals do not look alike, but they all sound alike and smell the same. People's faces in the ER look the same as well. Tears as a code blue is called over the PA system, parents trying to absorb news about their injured child. As I set there, I prayed for my friend and for the people in the ER waiting area as well as in the ER cubicles.

I was so thankful my friend was able to go home after we picked up prescriptions. I deliver fruit and almond smoothies each day and will continue to do her errands for the next few days until she can drive again.

I think there is much opportunity for prayer ministry in hospital waiting rooms. You don't have to talk to people or counsel them. You simply follow the leading of the Holy Spirit and pray for people and their family/friends who are being treated.

Seek the Lord, this may be something He calls you to do.









Monday, February 3, 2014

For the Birds

Today is a cold, dreary day by southeast Texas standards, we made it to our forecast high of 43. It is grey, misty, and and very humid. (A really bad hair day!) As I prayed this morning, I asked the Lord to help me remember is He with me all day and that I sense His presence during work, at lunch, at home, etc.

I walked out of my office and looked out the window on the side of my front door. There were 20-30 Goldfinch, several House Finch, a couple Pine Siskin, Blue Jays, and Cardinals feeding sunflower hearts and thistle seeds. It was a beautiful sight! As I thought of the Scripture: Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? Through the birds and Scripture, He reminded me He is with me.

About to exercise - I hope to remember He is with me as I exercise instead of crying out to Him for healing after I complete the exercise session!

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

BUD/S

Last week I saw several young men currently in BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEALS) running down a beach in CA. I don't know how many weeks into the 6 month course they are, but I know they work incredibly hard in an attempt to become a Navy SEAL. They train hard mentally and physically. As I watched them, I wanted to applaud them as well as cry.

Sometimes I wonder where my spiritual life would be if I approached time in the Word and prayer with an attitude of going to war against evil. It is an aspect I don't think about too often on any given day. In Ephesians 6 we read about our armor:

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to claim the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.

I believe 2014 will be a year of growth in Christ if I take an attitude as one training for war or an athlete training for a marathon. It is a long race not a sprint and I want to hear well done Annette when I cross the finish line.


Friday, January 10, 2014

The Knife that Defied Scientific Principles

The other night a friend and I met for a quick dinner at a local restaurant. As we talked after our meal, a young man of 16 or 17 years old came over and asked if he could clear our dishes. We said yes. He put Mella's dishes on his tray, was about to pick up my plate when Mella's knife catapulted off her plate, did a few somersaults in the air, landed on my wrist, bounced down to my thigh, then up to the table and landed with a clatter. A couple spinach leaves landed on me as well. Mella & I started laughing. The waiter was appalled and very apologetic. We laughed more, he apologized more. After seeing the knife in action, I could believe there was one shooter in Dallas up in the book repository. The waiter said he would ask the manager to comp the meal. I told him not to worry, it was an accident, no harm done. He thanked me for being nice and not cursing at him. I asked if people would curse at him for such a tiny thing. He said, "Yes, and in fact people way older THAN you have cursed at me for little things that are out of my control such as size of olives, etc." Way Older...LOL There are some people who would take offense at that. I decided not to ask how old he thought I was in case he guessed 67 or older.

I don't know if he noticed Mella praying over our meal, but I am certainly glad I responded in a Christian way. Our actions speak louder than our words on many occasions. Remember sisters:

Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Friday, January 3, 2014

Stone

And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.

In the Bible the word stone appears 324 times in the English Standard Version. Stones on the ground, various minerals are described as stones, they are building materials, things to be thrown, and hearts.

As a Christian, I consistently search my heart. Is there (or are there) an area in which it is stony instead of surrendered to God? Do I have a hardened heart towards a person or situation? The honest answer is yes. I have shut down regarding a person I've known too many years to count. If I describe the cause of the shut down, I fear I will sin further by describing it because I might add a few adjectives, a few adverbs, and far too many nouns to cause the person to look bad and I might come out smelling like a rose.

One of the things on my heart this year is to freely love this person again and to pray with fervor for the person's prayer needs. The friendship might not be what it once was in my opinion, but with the grace of God it can be a healthy friendship again.

So ladies, check out your heart...if it is somewhat stony, ask for a heart of flesh, He will give it to you.

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

In the Quiet

I am sipping coffee and typing away on my laptop this quiet New Year’s morn. The power went out about 2 hours ago. (The blessing is 2 fold: the coffee was ready and it is not our main season in Southeast Texas which is HOT.)

Read the Bible by flashlight, the dog is under the covers, and the quiet is only disturbed by an occasional train’s engineer blowing his horn loud enough and long enough for people 50 miles away to hear.

When I was young, I never valued quietness or solitude, now I relish both.

In 2014, I hope to spend more time in the Word and in prayer. 2013 was dismal in some ways, I was sick with pneumonia for over a month, then sick again from May through Sept. with a respiratory virus. Both took a lot out of me. I lost friends/family members to disease. There were horrific tragedies in our country and around the world. However, 2013 was also filled with joy and blessings too numerous to count.

I hope no matter what circumstances are thrown our way in 2014, we can say it is well with our soul; we know God is Who He says He is and His love is everlasting and His Word is true. I want us to remember His ways are higher than our ways and we are limited by our finite minds. We must not only believe in Him but believe Him.
Here is to 2014 – a year in which we grow in Christ Jesus, we serve Him with humble hearts and we remain focused on Him.
Happy New Year!