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.