Views from the Deck

Decks and Lofts

2011-10-26T14:54:00.003-04:00

The software dictionary on my computer says a deck is a platform like structure, typically made of lumber and unroofed, attached to a house or other building. That's a good description of the space on the west side of our house on Loon Pond. The deck affords us wonderful views of the open sky in all weathers and seasons, most especially glorious sunsets that display the handiwork of God.

In spring we like to set up our screen room and turn the deck into an additional living space, an extension of the house. Then it becomes our favorite destination for working, relaxing, or welcoming family and friends. Besides the superb view of beautiful Maine scenery, the deck is an excellent location from which to observe our grandchildren as they revel in the freedom and joy of the beach - that is, if we're not down there with them.

God has been providing a lot of warm and wonderful memories around our Loon Pond deck. We've opened His Word there as a couple and with others. I've studied the Scriptures with ladies from our church body on those sturdy stretches of lumber. I've also pondered the Savior's redeeming work in my life and sought the Spirit's counsel and guidance there. Many of the posts on this blog were woven together in one way or another around this platform.

As lovely and meaningful as the deck has been for me, for us, the time has come to bid it farewell. God has made it plain that His plan for us includes a move to Europe. The idea was a surprise to us, having settled quite well back into life in New England. We retreated to the Scriptures for direction and were led to Isaiah 6:6-8. We sought counsel from trusted brothers and sisters under the precept of Proverbs 15:22. We were convinced by the truths of Romans 8:28-30, especially as it applies to God's watch care over our children and grandchildren.

Yes, it's an exciting step to undertake. We've lived cross-culturally in the past and found the experience invigorating. It's also a blessing to think that God can use us in such a vibrant way. Yet, it's hard to pull up roots. Those that have been sunk with extensions far back into both of our lives are deep and delicate. Nevertheless, when God calls we know that obedience is the only answer for those that love Him. We're in the middle of this transition as I write this post.

We were given a bit more than a month to make preparations, 10 September to 17 October with a previously-planned 10 day vacation in the middle. It was a whirlwind of activity and emotions. We cherish the support we've received from old and new friends alike that has carried us on our way. We understand the consternation of a few and trust they'll take their concerns to the One in charge of our days. We pray for everyone we leave behind to be as thrilled, delighted, and amazed at the hand of God in their own lives as we are in ours.

We've been in Prague, the capitol of the Czech Republic, for about a week. The Lord chose this city for us and we've been making our way day by day. He's provided a temporary space for us to lay our heads in the home of some new friends. He brought us a visa agent who's hard at work moving our paperwork through the Czech process. We've got month-long passes for the public transportation system. We've been in and out of the city every day without getting lost. We were blessed to worship our Risen Savior with a faithful body of believers. It's a good start.

Don't get the wrong idea. We've had our stretching points. There was the toast that tasted a little funny and caused us to refer to the Czech dictionary. We learned that packets of pork lard resemble butter packets quite a bit. We have to carry maps with us at all times to help us find our way. It's getting a little tiresome to feel illiterate when interacting with people. All in all though it does seem that the Lord has laid out our path in line with Proverbs 3:5,6.

Obviously we will be living in a very different, urban setting. We will be gaining a new perspective on every day life and wonder what the view will be like. Well, the truth is, we have a hint about that. The Lord has opened the way for us to rent a lovely fifth floor apartment. It's situated in a quiet area with a small park nearby with fountains, and a short walk to a central point for travel by metro, tram, and bus. We've already been scouting out the neighborhood and discovered many benefits, such as a mini-market, post office, and various shops.

Since our vantage point is changing, it seems like a good time to revise my blog. I've been wanting to give it a fresh look for a while now and I see this as is a blessed opportunity. The goal will be the same; sharing the glimpses I catch of God's work in my life and in the world around me. The posts will probably be very similar; my thoughts as Adonai refines me according to His wisdom. The window dressing will just be a little bit different though; a European city courtyard rather than a rural Maine lake.

I pray that you'll join me at my new blog. It's called Views from the Loft. Maybe you should pop over there right now and find out how a software dictionary defines the word loft.

Frames and Pixels

2011-10-04T08:59:00.005-04:00

It's a bright sunny kind of day. I had a good night's rest and my morning has gone well. We enjoyed time together on the deck, sharing breakfast and time in God's Word. I've got my To Do List in hand and a hymn on my lips.

It's a chilly gray kind of day. I tossed and turned most of the night and got up late. We had to shorten our time over breakfast because we're both facing deadlines. I have an idea what I need to do, but the pressure makes focusing difficult.

These two types of days appear in some form our other in my life on a regular basis. I do my best by the Holy Spirit's infusing power and counsel to release myself to the Father's will. Then again, there's so much to do and I'm sure He wants me to be productive and efficient ... right?

I'm discovering these days that it's a lot easier to follow my natural Martha inclinations when facing my "routine" days. You know, the kinds I've outlined above. I can figure out how to get the most errands done with the least amount of time and effort. I'm good at keeping short- and long-term goals sorted out and moving forward to meet them. I'm able at pay attention to details while keeping the larger picture in focus. That's why it took me so long to get the message that God wanted me to step back from that role.

About a year ago my Father began to speak to me about some responsibilities He wanted me to release. They'd become pretty much a part of my Martha persona so, to be honest, it took some time for me to respond. In the end I chose to suspend my human understanding and follow where He led. It took months for me to realize that He was introducing me to Mary.

Now I have to tell you that I've only had a nodding acquaintance with Mary in my xx years of life. She and I have met over broken bones and/or debilitating illnesses - not the kind of scenarios one wants to repeat. Nevertheless, my Savior and Lord was directing me to not only get to know her but to nourish her character in my life.

It was slow going at first. A combination of personal habits, serious short-sightedness, and outside pressures threatened our infant relationship. What would happen if Martha slowed down? How would I exist if Mary took the lead? Would the world as I know it continue to turn?

Please don't take the dilemma nor those questions lightly. For a chronic (one might almost say compulsive, if they dared use that word around me) list maker and keeper, the paradigm shift was intense - almost impossible, except for Mark 10:27. The joy and freedom of resting at the Master's feet became part of my experience. Hallelujah!

Up 'til then it had been fairly comfortable to maintain my life within the confines of my former mindset. I understood the framework around me and my abilities to maneuver within it. Some days the number of pixels might be a bit low making the way ahead a bit unclear. But Martha was always at the ready to adjust, make a way, fix the picture.

The new phase of growth and development God ordained for me has been wonderful. Mary and I are becoming quite close. She's been showing me that from time to time it's helpful to wait on the LORD as He dusts off, clarifies the frame He's set for our lives. It was really quite recently that I caught a glimpse of His all-encompassing and all-sufficient glory and grace.

You see, we (my Honey and me) are not just facing a mix of sunny and gray days. We're looking at a host of frame-revising days with barely any pixel count at all. We're sexagenarians - and if you know what that means, you're probably peers. :-) God in His infinite wisdom and tender mercies has decided to move us across the ocean. With barely a month's leeway we will be relocating to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic.

It's not really an out-of-the-blue relocation. We've been serving throughout Europe for more than 25 years. Our Master has just decided to lead us to a new base of operations. It's all the related elements that are making our heads spin. I seem to have gone from routine, Martha friendly days to extraordinary, Mary needed ones.

Suddenly my life is filled with circumstances I have no chance of smoothing out and questions I simply cannot answer. What do I take? What do I leave? Where will we live? How will communicate? What will my days look like? Oh, what about all the visa paperwork? If I release Martha into that maelstrom her rushing to and fro will simply swamp the boat.

So this is the future my Father saw and was lovingly making provision for in my life!

My Martha side would never have been able to handle the massive size and wide diversity of such a challenge. Her circuits would have overloaded and spilled out in ugliness on those around me. Instead Mary has come to the forefront to exert her presence. She knows her Sovereign and trusts His omniscient, omnipotent hand. Her peaceful seat at His feet causes my spirit to rest in His faithfulness. What a Savior!

I pray the Lord will cause me to remember the glimpses of Truth He's uncovering for me. Whether routine or earth-shaking my days are wrapped up in Him. Whether there's any hint at all of what's ahead or not I need to look to Him. May each of us intentionally seek His ways and unapologetically walk in them.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out before us. Hebrews 12:1

You and Me

2011-09-10T09:10:00.006-04:00

We live in a world where people are making judgments and evaluations of each other all the time. I'm not sure everybody is even aware of this ongoing interpretation process. It has become a silent activity of every day life and often begins something like this, "What do you do?" From the answer to that question and ensuing exchanges an illusory portrait takes shape of the other person's identity.

I tested this process once several years ago. I introduced myself to a small group of people as a nun who had recently left the convent and taken over the principalship of a Catholic school. The way the other members received the information was reflected in their behavior. They crossed their arms, leaned back in their chairs, and dropped the coarse language they'd been using. It was really quite remarkable.

Just so you don't wonder, after a few minutes I did tell them of my charade and shared my true identity as a fourth grade teacher in a public school. It was a good case in point though for our discussion because the gathering was meant to uncover and address the relationship barriers between administrators and teachers.

Building a manikin of another person through various pieces of information and relationship experiences could be seen as a fairly harmless. Criteria for just such activities abound in the world today. Pick up any newspaper and you'll find a horoscope that will tell you someone's character and future based on their birthdate. Library and bookstore shelves are filled with titles that commit to report on similar topics based on birth order or family history. There are various programs that promote the idea that a person's life experience will determine who they are and how they live.

Alcoholics Anonymous and their related groups are among the best known in this area. Broad brushes are easy to find to paint people into one category or another: bi-lingual, bi-racial, multi-cultural, MK, PK, homeschooler/public schooler/private schooler, only child, single parent, drug addict/recovering addict, victim, homeless, elite, haves/have nots, etc. The list may be endless. The problem is that putting anyone into a pigeon hole automatically curtails or eliminates any other aspect or potential. Let me quickly say that I'm not against considering some of the descriptions included with these 'labels'. The problem comes when the 'label' takes over and the individual disappears.

I've witnessed the results of this dynamic all too often. People respond to others out of the conclusions they've drawn about what that person is thinking or feeling, saying or believing based on the superficial model they've constructed. Cases in point: a man abused by his alcoholic father is expected to become an immature adult, a woman with a poor relationship with her mother expects all older women to treat her poorly. This perspective is just flat wrong, harmful, painful, and can disrupt lives. More importantly, it is ungodly.

When considering how to 'evaluate' people as a basis for relationships we need to look into God's Word. The Father begins right away in Genesis to let us know who we are. We are created in His image (1:26,27) Yet the creature is not equal with the Creator. If we need evidence of this, chapter 3 reports the sad entrance of sin into the world, our hearts and lives. The rest of Scripture is filled with the ill and painful effects of the Fall. However, the testimony of God's grace and mercy abounds.

Psalm 8:5 was penned well after sin entered the world. It declares the position God has granted to Man. You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor. Psalm 139:13 attests the Father's gracious attention to the creation of each individual. For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. Verse 1 of the same psalm informs us that God knows ALL about us, from the inside out. Ephesians 1 declares that God chose to oversee every detail of our lives even before His acts of creation.

It is glorious to contemplate the high and lofty position where God placed Man, at the pinnacle of creation, and to consider that each of us is tended by His loving and powerful hand throughout our lives. We must remember to temper this understanding with the knowledge that sin has infected us and causes all kinds of consequences in our lives and relationships. The Bible has much to say on this topic as well.

Ezekiel 18 could be the most enlightening statement concerning the practice of painting people with the brush of generalizations. The Lord begins by condemning any further use of the proverb quoted in Israel, The fathers eat sour grapes, and the children's teeth are set on edge. He goes on to explain that each person is responsible for their own sin and life before Him. The concept is encapsulated in verse 20, The soul who sins is the one who will die. The chapter concludes with this plea.

"Therefore, O house of Israel, I will judge you, each one according to his ways, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent! Turn away from all your offenses; then sin will not be your downfall. Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit. Why will you die, O house of Israel? For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign Lord. Repent and live!"

We can gather information about a lot of things, but our lives are an individual, personal, between-my-God-and-me issue. We don't need to look to any outside factor for an explanation or excuse to be able to understand somebody. We need to see them the way God does: created in His image, broken by sin, and needing His forgiveness and reconciliation. As we grow in this ability we will more fully grasp the direction given in 2 Corinthians 5:16,17.

So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, He is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

Paul encourages God's people to develop His mindset as we approach and get to know people. The delightful side effect, if you will, of nurturing this view of others is that its Truth also applies to ourselves. As surely as God's directions free other people from the constraints of my faulty evaluation of who they are, they free me from the constraints others would try to place on me. Hallelujah, what a Savior!

If this glimpse has touched you in any way, I encourage you to meditate on all of 2 Corinthians 15. May the love of God guide you in your own walk toward heaven. Amen

Naomi and Me

2011-08-01T07:08:00.004-04:00

The title might sound like a child's picture book. I assure you it is not. On a recent visit to a dear friend's home the Lord brought me an entirely new perspective on the eighth book of the Bible. Ruth has always been a favorite with me, the book and the woman. This time through I took a deeper look at Naomi and I'm still pondering the results.

I was drawn right in as part of me identified with Naomi right away in chapter one. I haven't had to flee a severe famine just to stay alive, but I have faced hunger with a serious inability to get food so I know a bit of that type of desperation and confusion. I've never found myself in Moab with my entire nuclear family dead, but I have lived in foreign lands occasionally on my own so I've had a taste of the feelings of loneliness and fear. Feelings of abandonment can be paralyzing.

I don't want to put my experiences on the same plane as those of Naomi. Yet I do understand and appreciate the circumstances of her life. I can easily see myself making the comment she makes in verses 20 and 21. "Don't call me Naomi, " she told them. "Call me Mara, because the Almighty has made my life very bitter. I went away full, but the Lord has brought me back empty. Why call me Naomi? The Lord has afflicted me; the Almighty has brought misfortune upon me."

My mind began to grapple with the content of that pain-driven statement. Many would say, as I have in the past, that Naomi was filled with bitterness when she asked that she be addressed as Mara which means bitter. She certainly had due cause to make the request, considering that she'd gone out a happy and hopeful wife and mother and was returning a destitute and hopeless widow with the added responsibility of a loyal but alien daughter-in-law.

Naomi's plight reminded me of the devastation Job experienced. I considered the comparison and was drawn to Job's response to his first round of testing in 1:21. "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I will depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised." Job lost his family and everything he owned. He tore his robe and shaved his head, the outward signs of deep mourning, before he made this statement. He sure sounds bitter to me.

Yet people don't describe Job that way. They tend to see him as a model servant of God who was ultimately faithful in the midst of horrific circumstances. Perhaps that's because Job's words are taken in the context of his entire life. From that perspective we see his statement as an affirmation of the truth he holds dear. God is sovereign and no matter what unfolds around me yet will I submit to His will and recognize His right to do with me as He sees fit.

What if we apply the same contextual test to Naomi's bitter statement?

The setting of Naomi's statement is a place to begin. As she was approaching Bethlehem, her 'old home town', the women didn't know who she was. Her physical appearance had changed so dramatically that she was unrecognizable to her former friends and neighbors. It's important to notice that twice in Naomi's explanation of her request for a more accurate name she addresses God as "the Almighty". Even in her grief Naomi confirms the sovereignty of God.

No, Naomi didn't put on a plastic smile and act as if everything was rosy. It's interesting to ponder the reaction to her honest description as compared to Job's. Job didn't sugar coat any of his experiences either and yet he's seen as long-suffering. Naomi, like Job, didn't castigate God for the dreadful events she'd undergone. She affirmed the same truths; God is sovereign and no matter what unfolds around me yet will I submit to His will and recognize His right to do with me as He sees fit.

Naomi does state that she is "afflicted" by God and that He is the One who has brought "misfortune" on her. However, we should try to understand these words as she might have intended them. As a Jewess raised in a worshipping household and married to a godly husband, she would have seen affliction more as it's found in Psalm 119:75, "I know, O Lord, that your laws are righteous, and in faithfulness you have afflicted me." The concept in Proverbs 3:11,12 would probably have been part of her view of God, "My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in."

What follows this critical statement is quite revealing. God does not record any discipline for careless words nor for a bad attitude. Rather, we find an account of godly character being displayed under great pressure. Through chapters 2 and 3 Naomi does her best to carry on in the face of hard times. She applies herself to help Ruth settle into a new culture and to make a home for the two of them. She carefully trains Ruth in the dictates of Jewish customs as she guides her through the kinsman-redeemer process. Naomi could have followed any number of manipulative and heinous pathways. Instead she remained faithful to the One to whom she gave her allegiance.

Perhaps the closing verses of the final chapter toll the loudest death nell to the idea that Naomi was nothing but a bitter old woman. God silenced Job's friends and critics and re-affirmed His confident and loving hand by restoring his family and wealth. In the same way, God surrounded Naomi with His rich and tender blessings. In Ruth 4:16 we find Naomi with a precious grandson on her lap. The name and property of her husband and sons have been retained in the historical record. She is now part of an extended family where she will never face want the rest of her life.

Though she would have been unaware of it, the future of Naomi's line is laid out for us in this treasured account. Her first grandson whom she was blessed to tend is named Obed. Obed's son is Jesse, the father of David. God chose to weave the heartache of Moab into the bloodline of His beloved Son, Jesus Christ the Messiah.

My mind raced to a verse I'd been contemplating lately, Isaiah 30:19. "O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer." God's Word declares that as soon as Naomi cried out in Moab He heard and had an answer in place. She just needed to continue to live in submissive obedience with her heart and mind set on His truth while He worked out the perfect details and timing - for His own glory.

That's just what she did in the face of desperation, confusion, loneliness, fear, feelings of abandonment, etc.

To us Naomi's drama takes only four short chapters. We might be tempted to take the depth of her character much too lightly. Like us, she would have been facing the unknown with only her faith in her hands. We see her life moving from bitter circumstances to joy and peace and bounty as a brief overview. She had to slog through every miserable minute of it. Every woman can probably identify with her at one time in our lives or another.

The fresh glimpse I've been given of Naomi's life causes me to consider her a model of faith in action, right up there with Job. She wasn't afraid to 'tell it like it is', but she refused to try to pull the Almighty down from His rightful position.

I want to follow her in living the truth that no matter the circumstances God expects obedience to His commands and precepts.

I want to learn from her life that He rewards those who display faith, courage, hope, loyalty, confidence, perseverance, trust, diligence, . . . under His leadership.

I want to recognize from this biblical account that rough times are not necessarily the result of sin, but are always the refining work of the Reigning Sovereign.

I want to be dredged in the truth that the Father has heard my cry and has already planned out the perfect solution, but is just unveiling the details in the best way to show forth His glory.

Let us join with the women of Bethlehem who spoke similar words to Naomi, "Praise be to the Lord, who this day has not left us without a kinsman-redeemer, even Jesus the Christ. May His Name be hallowed in all the earth!" Amen

Make Hay While the Rain Falls

2011-07-06T07:15:00.005-04:00

Yes, I do know that my title is a take off from an old adage. I can't help myself, that's just the way the idea sprang into the brain God gave me.

The other saying was first recorded in 1546 by John Heywood in A dialogue conteinyng the nomber in effect of all the prouerbes in the Englishe language.

Whan the sunne shinth make hay. Whiche is to say.

Take time whan time cometh, lest time steale away.

I've done a bit of research and learned that though this cliché sprouted from the fertile ground of farm life, by the second half of the seventeenth century it was applied to life in general. It's a compact way to encourage folks to act while an opportunity exists or to take action while the circumstances are favorable - not to procrastinate, if you will. After all, if a farmer doesn't harvest his hay while the sun is shining today, rain might fall and spoil the crop tomorrow.

It's all well and good to rejoice about what can be accomplished on a sunny day, but what happens when there's a string of rainy days? Does that mean that all work stops until the sun comes out again? Well, with the spring we had up here in Maine this year, there would have been a serious drought in the action department. The Lord's been showing me that rainy days can be the setting for exploring new vistas and making fresh headway.

As a matter of fact, in some personal time with the Lord recently, He gave me a passage that threw a bright light on the concept. Isaiah 30:19-33 is a powerful passage about God's work in the world. I became enthralled by its opening on a particularly down day, O people of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you.

Immediate solutions are my style so the ears of my heart came right to attention. [Hmm, this means that God has already heard me and His answer is on its way.]

Verse 20 opened the eyes of my heart, Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them.

The Word was allowing me to see that the very things that I considered adversity and affliction were/are actually the bread and water He was/is providing to keep me alive spiritually and mature my soul. [Oh yes, Lord, the mature faith described in James 1 is exactly what I seek. Thank you.]

The next two verses spoke to me about getting my life in order - listening to God's directions and destroying any 'idols' that challenge His rightful and loving authority. I took some deep time with Him in this sensitive and critical area. Then I moved on to verse 23 and He met me all over again with refreshment.

He will also send you rain for the seed you sow in the ground, and the food that comes from the land will be rich and plentiful. In that day your cattle will graze in broad meadows. The oxen and donkeys that work the soil will eat fodder and mash, spread out with fork and shovel.

Rain may compromise a farmer's hay harvest, but God says He uses it to sprout the seed His people sow. The Word says that His harvest in a life yielded to Him is rich and plentiful. These are the blessings of the covenant promises and God always keeps His word. Psalm 145:13b.

The broad meadows spoken of here drew me back to the 'green pastures' of Psalm 23 and I was reminded that He is the Shepherd who causes me to 'lie down' and rest in His tender care. Hallelujah!

Now, if you're anything like me you're wondering how anyone can 'make hay' when it's 'raining'. How is it possible to make headway when we feel we're about to buried alive by avalanches of problems? Surely, it's impossible to find or do anything positive in the midst of a situation that screams of chaos, confusion, and pain. WRONG!

I'm here to tell you that God will always make a way for those who seek Him first. Matthew 6:33 When God is one's hiding place, learning abounds and growth is assured. I'm a full-on, God-blessed witness.

Let's be honest, anyone who's walked the pilgrim path for any length of time knows that trials are real AND it's in the midst of the struggles that our roots are forced to reach down deep for divine sustenance. We need to recognize these times and circumstances for what they really are: God's working field to bring the testimony of His Son's righteousness into full bloom in our lives ... for His own glory.

Trial-tested Suggestions for Rainy Days:

1. Admit the hard stuff is hard - to yourself, those closest to you, and especially to God.

2. Force yourself to maintain the Christian duties - be in the Word daily, attend worship, stick with a Bible study group, pray without ceasing, continue to do good.

3. Fight the desire to isolate - minimize contacts to the most supportive, but keep those growing with honesty before the throne of grace.

4. Surround yourself with spiritual support - pin up meaningful Scriptures, listen to music that feeds your soul, arrange refreshing breaks, cry out to Jesus who is our loving and able Older Brother.

5. Keep track of those things that are eating at you - lay them out before God and ask Him to show you the proper way to respond, check to see if you're exhibiting the same traits and do something about it.

6. Ladies, check out the balance of Martha- and Mary-like behavior in your life - ask the Holy Spirit to give you insight and enable you to make the changes He shows you.

7. Share deeply with your spouse - make time to compare notes on what you're learning about God, yourself and each other, maybe even write down the details for future reference.

8. Maintain integrity - be real with compassion, plastic smiles won't fix anything, after all Jesus didn't wave pompoms on the way to the cross.

9. Wait on The One who knows you more intimately and loves you more completely than you will probably ever fully understand - concentrate on who He is and who you are before Him, choose to worship rather than whine.

Sorry there's not 10. I'll add more another one if comes to me. :-D

So, the next time you encounter a 'rainy day' ... or a series of them ... no matter how overwhelming ... remember the Truth is that God sends adversity and affliction to instruct us in the way we should go. I pray He's grant you a glimpse of the opportunities that exist to seek Him first and of the favorable aspects of any situation to pursue the path He is laying out for you. Let's not procrastinate. 2 Peter 3:8-14

It Only Takes One (1)

2011-01-19T13:47:00.008-05:00

I've been keeping my eye on something that's starting to make sense. Maybe you've seen the results as I have, but never considered the overall dynamic.

I'm a people watcher. I find those God chose to make in His own image genuinely interesting and delightful. People are an excellent way to appreciate the diversity of the God-head and the infinite measure of His creativity.

In the olden days colleges trained teachers to observe their students and build socio-grams. These were drawings that looked a bit like a spider web. The name of each child in the group was listed with lines added to show the connections between them. I learned way back then that such observations can foster understanding. The process has continued over the years and I've come to a conclusion.

It only takes one.

It only takes one listening ear to encourage a gossip.

Gossip is an insidious snare. Holding an audience's attention with private tales can be tantalizing. The sad reality is that it doesn't take a large number of receivers. Once a willing listener has been discovered both parties become complicit in the sinful act.

It only takes one hesitant mouth to support sinful behavior.

She knew adultery was sin. That was not a question. It was just that she understood how unhappy her friend was and she didn't want to sound like a traitor. So when she heard the fateful words about a secret rendez-vous she didn't say a word.

It only takes one forgotten promise to leave a need unmet.

The problem was shared on several occasions. A brother spoke up and volunteered to go by and make the repair. He really intended to offer the blessing. However, after months of waiting the door is still broken and winter is making its chilly entry.

I could go on, but I trust you get the idea. As I pondered the significance of the number one (1), Scripture came to mind.

Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned Romans 5:12

But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man, how much more did God's grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many. Romans 5:15

For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ. Romans 5:17

Consequently, just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men. Romans 5:18

For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous. Romans 5:19

It only takes one ...

O Abba Father, please keep me from being the one that wanders away from You.

Teach me to turn from sin that I might not be a hindrance.

1 Corinthians 10:32

Allow me to speak your truth with love in all circumstances.

Ephesians 4:15

Train me to be a woman of The Word and my word.

Colossians 3:16; James 5:12

Dear Adonai, please cause me to be the one You use for your purpose and glory. Amen

Summits and Plateaus

2010-12-07T10:30:00.005-05:00

Okay, so this entry has been percolating for a while. All the better to cover the topic, My Dear.

At the time the idea hit me, I was struggling ... CORRECTION I thought I was struggling. It was like this ...

I'd been on a spiritual high for a while. My daily devotions were fairly regular and particularly meaningful. Bible study meetings were rich and deep. Corporate worship times were feeding my mind and my soul. Fellowship in the body was warm and encouraging. The continuity of God's Word was evident and the relevance of Scripture was powerful. At times I was overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of God's truth and its work in the lives of His people.

Oh, there were still various challenges and hurdles around me, but the goodness of the Lord overshadowed any unpleasantness. My mind and heart were fully focused on The Savior's face and nothing else mattered. It was as if I were dwelling at the worship site atop the Mount of Olives. 2 Samuel 15:30-32 I trust you know what I mean.

Then the day came when that sense of utter contentment slipped. Like a skier who's taken a nasty fall, I checked out my various parts to be sure they were still functioning. My mind continued to affirm the truth of God's loving sovereignty. My heart was still full of gratitude for the saving work of Jesus. My conviction to submit my life to His service was as strong as ever. The circumstances around me hadn't changed significantly. Something was off and, frankly, I was not happy about it.

It took me a few days or maybe a couple of weeks to sort out my symptoms. I reviewed every aspect of my life in the Comforter's presence and the conclusion shook me. I'm almost embarrassed to share it with you. I came to the point where I asked myself what had actually changed in my life. The answer was that I didn't FEEL the same. I was shocked to think that I had been caught in the snare emotions can lay out for us. I would never have believed that I could allow my feelings to take over for truth in coloring my days. I thanked God for drawing me back to Himself and quickly confessed my sin with heartfelt gratefulness for His forgiveness. Psalm 25:15, 1 John 1:9

When I go through experiences like this I catch myself asking, "What lesson should I be learning here?" I know it's a common saying, but I cringe at the words. I don't want the intimate parts of my relationship with my LORD to be boiled down into an academic exercise. Rather, He is tenderly making Himself known to me and I want to take in every aspect of His loving character that He offers to me. [Thank you for letting me address another pet peeve, unhelpful clichés.]

In this portion of my growing relationship with my Abba, I've come to more fully appreciate that the mountaintop experiences are divine gifts. 2 Samuel 22:34 Perhaps they are meant to give us a taste of heaven. Perhaps they are meant to encourage us onward. Perhaps they are basic times of R&R. In any event, each one is an expression of His merciful grace. They are to be recognized and relished. However, I've also come to understand that they have their own particular season according to God's plan. Ecclesiastes 3:1

The problem was that I had grown comfortable and perhaps a bit complacent in the gift of my summit experience. There wasn't a new trauma to address nor a fresh avenue to pursue. The simple truth was that God had merely placed my feet back on the stony path of day-to-day life in a fallen world. He was/is still on His throne. Jesus was/is still whispering in His ear on my behalf. The Spirit was/is still guiding my steps. Hallelujah!

My days are unfolding once again with balance. There's not a hidden threat to uncover or carrot to chase. I'm on the pilgrim's path, the plateau of the walk of faith. The way is not always smooth, but this view of God's hand is spectacular. The summit might be more breathtaking, but the plateau offers the same security, peace and joy in His hands. His truth is in place. He is the Victor. Each portion of the journey He lays out for us is a gift!

May you be equally blessed by the God of Summits and Plateaus!

Roadblocks and Detours

2010-11-01T13:01:00.002-04:00

It was a lovely day and we were heading out for our annual leaf peeping drive. The fall is an especially beautiful season in the northeast. A powerful rain storm had run through the night before causing us to be especially grateful to find so many trees still robed in the Father's majesty.

It wasn't a total surprise when we came upon a sawhorse on one of the back roads. We knew electricity was still out in various places. Actually, we were thankful that someone had erected a barrier to protect us from the power lines we could see draped across the road ahead. Curt went left instead of right and we sought another route to get where we wanted to go.

In a few minutes we came up to another sawhorse. This barrier was a bit of a surprise because we couldn't see any problems that would have caused its placement. Curt maneuvered the Jeep around the obstruction and we made our way about another mile. Then we saw the reason for the blockage. The river running along side the road had washed out an entire section. We had to turn around and go back the way we'd come.

It took several more attempts before we got back on track for our fall foliage tour. I must report that someone in the car, who shall remain nameless between the two of us, said on more than one occasion, "Let's just give this up and go home." Instead God carried us along and blessed us through the beauty of His creation and the warmth of our relationship in Him. We were and are thankful for His loving hand.

On that day it was our bodies that made the wandering trek. On many days it is our hearts, minds and spirits that run up against obstacles. They may not look like sawhorses, but they perform the same function. They affect the journey. The question for the believer is how to respond to the barrier before us.

Abraham did not considered the possible destruction of his promised future a roadblock preventing him from obeying God's command. He made the preparations necessary to sacrifice his son Isaac as a burnt offering. Genesis 22:8 explains that Abraham saw this sawhorse merely as a distraction. "God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son." Abraham set out to pursue God's call even to the plunging of a knife into Isaac's body when God made the detour clear." Genesis 22:12,13 reports that God stayed Abraham's hand and provided a ram as the offering.

What would have happened if Abraham had retreated at the first sign of a sawhorse? What if he had considered the risks and stayed at home to avoid them? We learn in other portions of Scripture what happens when God's people pay too much attention to the sawhorses they face. Jonah, Mark 14:66-72 In contrast, God's Word commends Abraham for exercising his faith by not shrinking back from the challenge before him. Hebrews 11:17-19

What about the sawhorses in our own lives? Do we see every one as a roadblock that blocks the way ahead? Do we stay at home in the garage or sit on a roadside bench when we should be persevering? Or do we, like Abraham, continue walking by faith?

There are times when a certain choice, relationship or direction simply is not good for us. We pursue them at our own peril. God knows all things and is compassionate toward His people. He provides a way out of sinful temptation. 1 Corinthians 10:13

The key to walking by faith is to be sure it is our lamplight. John 8:12, Ephesians 1:1-14 We are not being asked to take a blind leap off a precipice into bottomless darkness, but a measured step into the glorious light of God's grace. Ephesians 2:8-10 We are being called to rest in and pursue the pathway laid out for us by the Sovereign of the world.

It behooves the godly traveller to get to know their heavenly Travel Agent - to know Him well. We need to commit ourselves to develop our relationship with God - prayer, worship, study, fellowship. In that way we will grow in understanding, confidence, peace and joy at being in His hands. We will be more able to evaluate the sawhorses that appear in our path and follow the Lord as He guides us around them.

I don't like wandering around backroads not knowing where I am. I prefer beautiful scenery to downed wires and washed out roads. I really enjoy the feeling of relief when I get back on a road I know.

I do not want to wander around in life. I want to be as close to my Abba Father as I can be. I want to enjoy His love and faithfulness up close and personal. Therefore I commit myself to my basic Christian duties. I snuggle up in my private devotions. I focus on my study of the Word. I revel in worship. I delight in fellowship with my brothers and sisters. How about you?

Unhappiness and Blame

2010-10-30T09:23:00.003-04:00

I confess. It was a major shock to my system. I like to think that I'm past the infamous 2x4 phase in my spiritual life, but now I'm not so sure.

My morning started off pretty well even though my night's sleep was interrupted a few times. I made my way to my quiet spot and began my devotional time with my heavenly Father. Psalm 17 starts off fairly straight forward. It's a prayer of David and begins with his request that God would hear his plea.

Okay, I'm with you, David. I need God to hear my prayer too. My lips are without deceit as are yours and I know my vindication before the Father comes only through His Messiah. So we're on the same footing.

However, my heart starts to quail a bit at verse 3, "... though you test me, you will find nothing; I have resolved that my mouth will not sin." I perform a conscience check and something is amiss. My eyes travel on to the end of verse 5 "My steps have held to your paths; my feet have not slipped." I can go no further. What is it, Father?

The Spirit confronted me about truth years ago. I rarely slip on that one any more so that's not the issue. By God's grace I've developed a tighter rein on my tongue. James 1:26 I thank Him for causing me to seek forgiveness for a sharp remark I made recently, but that doesn't clear the deck. What's the outstanding issue here, Father? I'm serious about my resolution to keep my mouth from sin and to serve you with a clean heart. Psalm 51

The Spirit reminds me of some pretty ugly remarks I'd made in the last week. More than the words come back to me. I am forced to face the hideous condition of my heart that fed my sinful comments. I immediately throw myself on my spiritual face and cry out for forgiveness. Isaiah 6:5 comes to mind. Thankfully the closing words of 1 John 1 fly into my mind and I am overcome with gratitude and thankfulness, love and praise to God for His faithfulness and justice to grant forgiveness to ME. Amen

The work doesn't end there. There's more to learn so I search deeper. What caused me to make those unpleasant comments, Father?

The truth hits me like a ton of bricks. (Please pardon the cliché.) I was unhappy - quite a shallow feeling. Okay, I was frustrated, disappointed, discouraged and feeling helpless to change the circumstances in which I found myself. I wanted my own way and couldn't figure out how to get it. So I turned to my human nature and blamed someone else. Wrong ... wrong ... wrong! Genesis 3:13 echoes in my mind and I am devastated.

The full weight of what I'd done washes over me. I recognize the danger and can't believe I've moved into it. God is in control of all things ... ALL things. By blaming anyone else for my situation I am implying that they have power in my life. Yes, of course lives are affected by relationships, but God is the one who directs my days. NO BODY can interfere with His plans for me. Jeremiah 29:11 I return again to the sweet relief of 1 John 1:9. My soul rests in the One who knows me better than I know myself and is actively intervening into history to prepare me for eternity in His presence. Hallelujah!

I purpose that next time negative feelings come at me like the kings who joined forces to annihilate Jehoshaphat I will follow his example. I will fight off fear and discouragement by remembering that the battle is God's and not mine. I will submit myself to the God of all creation, stand firm, and look for His deliverance - resting by faith that this is His will for me. 2 Chronicles 20, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Thank you, LORD, that the only person who heard my words was my husband Curt. I'll be sure to share this glimpse of your grace with him and ask his forgiveness as well. Please do cause me to avoid this trap in the future. Though the purification process is uncomfortable, even painful at times, I want to be a clean vessel to serve you and bring glory to Your Name all my days. Amen

2 Timothy 2:20,21, Hebrews 9:14; 10:19-25

Philodendron Harvest

2010-08-11T08:47:00.006-04:00

It's been a busy summer so far and it doesn't look like my schedule will slow down for a while. I guess that's why it happened. I nearly committed phytoslaughter ... as opposed to phytocide. (definitions below)

On top of the usual activities of life, Curt and I have undertaken a major purging project in our home. We've made progress in the garage, basement, attic, office, grandkid room and so on. The process has been enjoyable even though it's been draining. There's also been a lot of coming and going with guests. It is always a delight to share the home the Lord has granted us so I was singing along my way. It wasn't until I was finalizing the preparations for a visit from our three wonderful grandchildren that the crisis confronted me.

The philodendron on the back of our toilet (Please excuse the use of this graphic word. That's just where it sits. I didn't want to tell you, but its location is important to my story/confession.) was in desperate straits. I was shocked to see all of its leaves hanging limply around its pot. It seemed like only the day before I had remarked to myself how much it seemed to be thriving on the sunshine and fresh air streaming in through the overhead skylight. I even noticed that one of its lower leaves was turning brown from being bashed by the toilet (There's that gauche word again, sorry.) seat cover. Obviously time had slipped by and my poor plant was suffering from lack of care. I confess that I couldn't remember the last time I'd given it water.

I felt irresponsible and careless and my insides seemed to wither. I can't stand it when I let something go and then see the sad results right before my eyes. Hey, my internal self felt just like that philodendron looked!

Could I be identifying with a plant? Well, at that moment, yes. Come to think of it, whenever I go through a trying time I probably do feel like that plant to one degree or another. My spirit feels pale with a lack of interest. My limbs go limp with a lack of energy. My mind tells me that nobody cares about me since I'm not being watered. My heart withers in defeat. In my low down state I end up getting bumped and bruised by things that don't normally touch me. I begin to wonder if the desert I'm in is endless. My thirsty philodendron was a pretty good example of what happens when I hit a difficult patch of life.

I praise God that I was not in that position that day. My mind and heart rallied with the truth. I know that difficult times do come and they can be devastating. We live in a fallen world surrounded by a pagan culture and it can be downright desolate at times. However, I/we aren't meant to dwell in that desert. It's draining, painful and lonely. God's plan for His chosen ones is the antithesis of such a dry and lifeless existence. Jeremiah 29:11; John 10:10 Our souls are meant to sing songs of victory in spite of our surroundings, in the face of any circumstances. That's what I wanted to give my philodendron.

I've learned over the years, from drowning unnumbered samples of vegetation, that it's not good to flood withering plants. The proper first step is to give it a small amount of water. I determined to suppress the urge to make up for my life-threatening behavior by unleashing my guilt in the form of buckets of liquid. I knew it needed water, but I used a tiny cup and poured a very small amount across the top of the soil. I didn't see any instant results. I had to rely on what I knew to be true and hold off the desire to have my poor philodendron pop right back to life. For one of a few times I did the right thing. I delivered what was needed at the moment and left the water do its work.

I did not turn my back on my plant all together. For one thing I don't like to give up on anything. I prefer to apply myself fully in every situation and make sure I've offered everything I can. I made sure to pay attention to the tilt of the philodendron's leaves and, using much restraint, continued to provide small amounts of water every couple of days. When they started to perk up without showing any signs of yellowing I was encouraged.

The day finally came when I took the plant down to the kitchen and showered it in the sink. I knew I still needed to be cautious about getting drowning the roots - another lesson learned from past drowning victims. I held the pot to the side and used the sprayer only on the leaves, wiping them with a gentle finger. The incidental spray was the only water the soil received that day. When the leaves began to spring back up, I returned it to its assigned place. Sure enough, the lowest leaf was now lifted above the punishing (ahem) seat cover. I was making progress and I could feel my spirit relax.

The Scriptures are rife with references about God's life-giving water. Psalms 1,22,23; Proverbs 25; Isaiah 49; Zechariah 14; John 4 and 7; Ephesians 5; and 1 Peter 3 are but a few places to search. Perhaps none is as powerful as Revelation 21:6. It is clear that God's children need God's water/truth all the time and most especially when we're facing trials. When we're struggling, feeling parched and on the verge of tears we're more likely to get bumped and bruised by minor issues. When our leaves are withered, hanging limply around the pot, as my philodendron's were, God is waiting to pour living water over us - right where we need it and in just the right amount.

Psalm 126 spoke to my heart on this topic this very morning. Verses 5 and 6 report, Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.

The individual described in these verses appears to be in a rocky place, yet he is neither alone nor empty-handed. He carries the seed of faith. He is in the midst of difficulties, yet he is expressing/sharing his faith, sowing his seed. God's covenant to those whose faith abides in hard times is that they will be filled with overflowing joy as they gather a harvest full of blessings. This is not a maybe kind of statement or some wishful thinking. This is the infallible, unchangeable, inspired, breathed promise of God. He commits to revive, restore, and reward those who faithfully turn to Him. Hallelujah!

I'm pleased to report that my plant is thriving nicely. Its sturdy leaves are dark green signals of the proper care it's been receiving. There's even a new shoot to punctuate fresh growth. My prayer is that each of us will surrender to the Lord and experience that same blossoming under the watering can of His Word. Amen

phytocide n the deliberate and systematic destruction of a particular member of the plant phyla

phytoslaughter n the killing of a plant without intentional or implied malice

Breath and Life

2010-07-05T10:24:00.004-04:00

When God brings verses from various portions of Scripture into focus the impact can be overwhelming. This insightful glimpse caught me a couple of weeks ago.

I was working on a Bible study for a group of friends who meet weekly. The topic was the word "all". It's only a three letter word, but I'd been noticing the power it commanded when I paid attention to its meaning and application. 2 Timothy 3:16,17 came into view, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

I contemplated the first four words, "All Scripture is God-breathed ...". The Bible is the product of the very breath of the sovereign triune God whom John 1:1-3 reports was and is the Maker of all things.

Another verse tickled the fringes of my mind and I went in search of it.

Genesis 2:7 announces, "the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being." God took some molded earth and granted it life through His breath. The very same breath, God's breath, that transformed a lifeless sculpture into a living being is the life-giving source of Scripture. Whether to the dust of the earth or letters on a page God's breath bestows life.

When I open my Bible the very breath of God rises up to my nostrils. His DNA, if He will excuse the anthropomorphic reference, is imprinted on each word, verse, passage, book ... every piece. As I study Scripture I grow in my understanding of who He is for I am spending time in His presence. I am affected not only by the information divulged and the wisdom expressed there, but also by the life-giving breath of the One who maintains the absolute reliability of His Truth.

There is more than hunger and thirst that calls me to the Word. I need God's life-giving breath to keep me alive and transform my life. The opening chapters of Genesis make it plain and the message is carried through the New Testament. "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." Hebrews 4:12

May each of us grow in the grace and the knowledge of Him who is our All in All. Emmanuel

Busy and Too Busy

2010-06-07T09:34:00.002-04:00

Busy-ness is a topic that has been on my heart for a while. Perhaps it's come to a head since I returned last month from four weeks of ministry in Europe, immediately made two trips in New England, and then spent two days at a family funeral in Rhode Island. Yes, my spring schedule has been busy ... jam-packed as a matter of fact.

Actually, as I look around me I notice an awful lot of other people in similar situations. So, here's the question: When does busy become too busy?

Since 2 Timothy 3:16, 17 is true I decided to turn to Scripture in my search for the dividing line between Busy and Too Busy.

Of the seven references I found in the NIV and the one additional one in the KJV, 1 Peter 4:15, all but one use the word "busy" in a negative sense - interesting.

1 Kings 18 reports the events of the clash between Elijah and the 450 prophets of Baal. The prophets had prepared the bull they were given and called out to Baal all morning to ignite their offering. "At noon Elijah began to taunt them, "Shout louder!" he said. "Surely he is a god! Perhaps he is deep in thought, or busy, or traveling. Maybe he is sleeping and must be awakened." (v. 27) Elijah is accusing Baal of being occupied with other things that are keeping him away from this important event. The implication is two-fold: Baal is not powerful enough to take care of everything on his plate, and he is allowing other things to keep him from this critical test of his powers. Being too busy kept Baal from keeping his priorities straight.

A bit further along, in 1 Kings 20, we learn about the consequences of being too busy. God's prophet set a hypothetical situation concerning a servant who was to guard a prisoner before King Ahab. If the prisoner escaped the servant would have to pay with his own life or a large amount of silver that he would never be able to accumulate. "While your servant was busy here and there, the man disappeared." (v. 40) The King replied that the sentence was obvious: since the servant couldn't pay the amount of silver he would have to forfeit his life. The prophet explained to King Ahab that his own life and the lives of his people would be required because he had released a man God had determined should die. Being too busy cost King Ahab his life and the people of Israel much humiliation under Jehu and Jehoahaz.

Isaiah 32:6 also speaks of being busy. "For the fool speaks folly, his mind is busy with evil: He practices ungodliness and spreads error concerning the Lord; the hungry he leaves empty and from the thirsty he withholds water." A life preoccupied with evil leads to godlessness, falsehood, and a lack of compassion. Being too busy in the wrong direction leads to foolishness and folly.

Haggai 1 also addresses the issue of being busy. "You expected much, but see, it turned out to be little. What you brought home, I blew away. Why?" declares the Lord Almighty. "Because of my house, which remains a ruin, while each of you is busy with his own house." (v. 9) God brought drought on HIs people because they were so wrapped up in their own "things" that they did not pay attention to His sanctuary. Being too busy with self-centered activities leads to direct, negative, all-encompassing consequences.

Paul warned the Thessalonians against being idle. 2 Thessalonians 2:6-10 make it clear that idleness is not a desirable trait. Believers are alerted not only to avoid it in their own lives, but to keep away from those who are idle. The specific rule is, "If a man will not work, he shall not eat." It is important for God's people to be busy. Verse 11 adds clarification, "We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies." There are people who appear active, but rather than attending to their own walk of faith they interfere in other people's lives. Being too busy in the lives of others is a sign of the sin of idleness.

This error is further outlined in 1 Timothy 5. "Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about form house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also gossips and busybodies, saying things they ought not to." (v. 13) There are those who forsake the tending of their own homes to meddle in the homes of others. Being too busy trying to run the lives of other people results in the sin of slander.

The KJV reference for being busy is 1 Peter 4:15, "But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's affairs." Busybodies, those described by Paul as seemingly-active idlers who are obsessed with the lives of others, are on the list with murderers, thieves and evildoers. Peter wants God's children to know that they ought to avoid being pre-occupied outside their own purview as much as they avoid these other deadly sins. Being too busy "other focused" leads to reasonable, expected negative consequences.

The final reference to the word busy is found in Titus 2 and is addressed primarily to women. In this epistle Paul explains to Titus how to carry on the building up of Christ's Church. He begins the instructions to women with specific directions about how older women are to live. He continues with what they are to teach to the younger women. "Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God." (v. 4,5)

This passage does not stand alone. It is one reference among several on this topic and a single portion of all of Scripture. Much is said about the role of women, but we will concentrate on this one word here. Older women are called to live in such a way that they will be godly role models, "Then they can train". One of the specific examples they are to set and train is to be "busy at home". This is the only place where the word busy is used in a positive sense. That doesn't mean that being busy is only appropriate for women and in the home. Rather, with all of the other teachings, alerts and warnings in place is it biblically permissible/directed for women to be active in the roles they pursue in their homes.

The truth is that I've never found a home where there isn't plenty to keep a woman busy. However, I've been intimately aware of homes where being idle and/or being too busy has been evident. I say intimately because I've had those seasons in my own life. So ... how do we stay busy without becoming too busy? The Scriptures describe a series of flags that should warn us when we're getting too close to or have crossed that dividing line.

Flag #1
I’m too busy when I my Christian duties get short-circuited. I’m not talking about a little bump here or there. I mean when my personal quiet time with my heavenly Father becomes basically non-existent, or my attendance at church is hit-or-miss, or my regular Bible study falls by the wayside, or my prayer time with my brothers and sisters gets suspended.

Flag #2
I need to seek the Lord about being too busy when the circumstances around me deteriorate. Hebrews 12:1-13

Flag #3
I’m too busy when I catch myself in a habit of sin, especially those sins where God has already granted me victory. Having a bad attitude, participating in gossip, lacking compassion, shaving the truth, forgetting to thank and praise His Name are as red as the flags for murder, theft, evil, etc.

Flag #4
I’m too busy when I become so focused on my little world that I neglect the local body where God has placed me. This shortfall can be in the area of the physical plant or redeemed relationships.

Flag #5
I’m too busy when I’m spending more time and energy worrying about, tending to, and/or talking about other people than I am to my own life - physically, emotionally, spiritually.

Flag #6
I’m too busy when I’m thinking about how to fix a situation in someone else’s life while my house and/or relationships are in disarray.

Flag #7
I’m too busy when I forget that obsessing over outside situations is on the same level as murder and theft.

Flag #8
I’m biblically busy when my mind, heart and spirit are focused on the domain God has laid out for me, seeking to please Him in all I am and do as I set my priorities according to the tasks He has laid out before me. Acts 17: 24-28, Psalm 19:14, Ephesians 2:10

Hallelujah, God is never too busy! He always has His ears tuned to us. He hears our humble cries and responds with love and deliverance. Psalm 34 To God be the glory forever and ever Amen

Bask and BASK

2010-05-01T05:21:00.008-04:00

I was having lunch the other day in a cafe on the banks of the Danube River. Before you let your heart drool, it was my first day off in two weeks of 24 hour a day ministry. To say I needed the break would be an understatement. Thankfully God chooses to speak to my heart whether I'm "on duty" or relaxing.

So ... God provided a couple of hours of respite when I could work on a cross stitch picture as I spooned Hungarian Jokai bean soup. Yes, it was delicious. I noticed a group of young women who stepped into the next cafe. They were obviously native French speakers, but were using English to communicate with their waiter. Each of the women was strikingly attractive and they drew a lot of attention. Their friendly chatter spoke of close bonds.

The women chose a table without an umbrella and the waiter complied. As soon as they were seated they glanced up at the midday sun and commented on its brightness. They immediately began rearranging their clothing so that they could take advantage of the tanning opportunity. Some might say their bare shoulders were a bit risqué. They didn't seem to be aware of what onlookers might think as they prepared to make the most of their setting.

It seemed that their lunch was a celebration of some sort though I wasn't able to figure out its reason. Nevertheless, throughout their two hour meal they continually checked the direction of the sun to be sure they were receiving the full benefit of its rays. From time to time I noted one or another face was turned upward, eyes closed, drinking in the solar warmth. Cooling breezes came and went, but the women continued to bask.

When the word bask crossed my mind I was immediately drawn to Scripture. "How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!" 1 John 3:1
I began to consider how much my heart basks in my heavenly Father's love.

As soon as the seasons change and hints of spring appear, sun worshippers are outside soaking up solar energy. The women in the cafe were a good representation of the various expressions of this worship dynamic. They were all committed to making the most of the outdoor exposure. Some were a bit more quiet and serious in their basking while others were chatty and joyful, but all were revelling in the sunbath. They had clearly made special arrangements to be together yet each woman tended her own tanning experience - an even tone, with no strap marks, please.

As their time together ended, the women each readjusted their clothing. They thanked the waiter for His gracious attention and strolled off down the way. They headed out to re-enter their separate worlds, having enjoyed their time together. There is no doubt in my mind that each of them will repeat the sun worship ritual at every opportunity. How about me?

Do I run to God the moment a worship opportunity appears?
Am I basking in His presence whether in a quiet, serious or chatty, joyful mood and/or situation?
Do I turn my face toward Him and revel in His glory and provision?
Am I committed to gathering together with others to soak up and respond to His divine mercy and love?
Do I turn all sides of my own heart and life over to the refining work of the Spirit - an even tone, with no strap marks, please?
Am I confident in the joy of my salvation no matter what others think and though cool breezes blow?
Do I seek and take advantage of every occasion to rest in the grace of my Savior and Lord?
Am I a true Son-worshipper?
How about you?

"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:2 Amen

Celebrate and Rejoice

2010-04-07T09:58:00.005-04:00

Christ is risen ... He is risen indeed. Hallelujah!

What better way to celebrate the rising of our Savior and Lord from the tomb than to gather as a family in His reigning presence. We were delighted to welcome our oldest daughter and her family for the Resurrection Day weekend. The house was full of sharing, laughter, and lots of spring cleanup activity. Our hearts rejoiced with it all.

For me, the crowning piece is not the special meal, though it is delicious and a precious time of fellowship. It’s not the flowers either whose variety and colors abound, though they are beautiful and brighten our surroundings. Rather, I revel in being together as a family in worship before our Triune God; Creator, Sustainer and Judge of all that was and is and is to be. Amen

I sat in the sanctuary along side the next two generations and my heart was filled with thankfulness for the faithfulness of my heavenly Father. Regardless of my unworthy condition He continues to express His delight in me with intimacy. This extraordinary worship blessing was one among many God seems to be pouring into my life lately. Last month He brought the truth of Genesis 50:20 to life in a way I pray I’ll never forget.

I’d gone to Washington, DC to meet with the legislators from Maine. I was able to visit each of the four offices as well as visit the Senate and House galleries so I considered it a successful day. On my way to the bus that would take me out of the city I fell and broke my foot ... my right foot. Of course I didn’t know at the time it was broken, but I knew it was badly injured. My brothers and sisters ministered to me throughout the evening and shepherded me through as much of my travel home as they were able. Many of them wondered aloud if I would be able to make my spring trip to Europe. I was concerned about my trip to Tennessee the following week.

Curt met me at the airport and took me directly to the ER. That’s when the x-rays confirmed that a bone in my foot had been chipped. I spent the weekend pondering the questions that were raised about my ability to travel as I laid on the couch. [aside: Why does everyone immediately assume an injury means God is telling one to slow down?] I knew that no matter what it would take, I was going to meet the commitments I’d made. I just kept praying that I wouldn’t have to undergo surgery nor be burdened with a plaster cast. I guess I’m just a practical kinda gal.

The orthopedist was surprised I wasn’t in any pain. I was surprised at the amount of black, blue, green, and yellow that covered my foot. We discovered that I could bear weight on it without discomfort so the doc took away my crutches. When I told him I intended to get on a plane in less than 48 hours he considered whether to put me in one of those large supportive boots or a simple aircast. Hallelujah, the aircast won!

You see, Curt broke his right ankle four months earlier. I had a clear understanding about how casts, crutches, canes, and not being able to drive can affect one’s life. I immediately started praising God all over again - for dodging those bullets on top of bringing me back to my Honey’s arms. As Dr. Avery applied the aircast I realized it was easily removable. When he confirmed my realization, I started thanking God that I’d be able to take showers. Hallelujahs rose up all over again!

Since I already ask for assistance when I travel, I felt cleared to make my way to Chattanooga with bells on my toes. Hah, God had more rich blessings waiting for me. A couple of hours before the conference was to begin I approached the entrance doors. Of course they were locked, but at just that moment someone came out. I asked kindly if I might put my things on a chair ahead of time. I think the cane and slippers might have helped, but I know that God was the One who granted me favor.

I made my way toward the stage and choose a seat in the very front row. It’s my habit to arrive quite early and rush in as soon as the doors open. This time God made the way clear for me to choose a seat in my favorite place without any waiting or rushing. When I returned for the opening session, there were my things. I wanted to announce to the world that God is The Perfect Usher. Wait, there’s more.

I realized that it would be best if my foot, broken only a week earlier, would be most comfortable if I were able to elevate it. I asked a passing stage hand if there might be a chair I could use for that purpose. He was quite pleasant about my request and returned quickly with a straight-backed chair. Can you picture that? I was lounging in the front row. Wait, there’s still more.

As the opening sessions were coming to a close I realized that a helpful person might come along and remove what appeared to be a randomly-placed chair. I didn’t want that to happen so I sought the Lord for what to do. I took out a small pad and wrote on it, “Please leave to elevate a broken foot. Thank you and God bless. :-)”

I appeared the next morning for a new day of feasting on the Word of God. As I made my way to the front of the auditorium, I saw the elevating chair still in its place with my little pad sitting on it. God had reserved my seat for me ... and so it was for the whole event. Among more than 2400 women, my Daddy reserved a front row seat for ME. Hallelujah to the Lord!

Yes, Genesis 50:20 came alive for me last month in Chattanooga as did Romans 8:28. Who would believe that a physical threat such as a broken foot could lead to rejoicing? I do and I pray you will too now that you’ve read my report. There were no mishaps on this second March trip. God took me, kept me, and fed me and I rejoice in His Holy Name.

Back at home I continue to be thankful to my gracious Daddy. He arranged for sweet reminders of our grandchildren’s Easter visit. On Sunday evening I found their toothbrushes and “monogrammed” cups resting on the bathroom counter, waiting for me to tuck them in the cupboard. On Monday Curt discovered a chocolate egg hidden in the fireplace matches, unclaimed by little ones and a delight to a grownup. On Tuesday we found a company of army men safely encamped behind the mail basket in the living room. Each discovery flooded our hearts with warm memories and filled the air around us with chuckles.

These varied glimpses cause me to revel in the goodness of our God as He weaves my life into the masterpiece of His grace. I pray that you too are being wrapped up in His all-sufficient love and mercy.

Wishin' and A-Hopin'

2010-03-09T09:02:00.002-05:00

You don't have to raise your hand or anything, but let me ask how many of you spend a fair amount of time wishin'. Sometimes it's a passing thought, such as, "I wish it weren't raining." Or it might be something with a bit more substance, "I wish I lived somewhere else." It could even be as extreme as, "I wish I were married to someone else."

I have no doubt that there are whole flocks of people who spend hours imagining what would happen if they were chosen to be on one of the reality TV shows. From the makeover segments on various talk shows to programming based on the concept, like What Not to Wear, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Survivor, The Amazing Race, even The Biggest Loser viewers are drawn into the world of wishin'. After all, wouldn't it be nice if some outside entity would come in and improve our looks or fix up our home or provide a vacation, an exciting challenge, a financial windfall? What would be the harm in that?

For that matter, what's wrong with thinking about how someone else's life might be improved in similar ways? Certainly we have other people's good in mind when we conclude, "I wish he would pay attention to his manly duties." Or "I wish she would take better care of that responsibility". Or "I wish they would just listen to my advice."

On a superficial level I suppose a bit of wishin' is fine. It may be what leads people to make positive changes in their lives. Perhaps the person who keeps saying to themselves, "I wish I wasn't always rushing to get out the door." will decide to set their alarm clock earlier and enjoy a more peaceful start to their day. I know I've been there myself many times. On a deeper level though I wonder what happens when/if a habit of wishin' develops.

I started to ponder this topic when my mind latched onto a brief portion of "The Five Silent Years of Corrie ten Boom" by Pamela Rosewell. On page 47 of our 1986 paperback edition, the author quotes a letter Corrie received.

"A missionary friend had brought you [Corrie] by car and you had been having a very heavy program through the previous weeks. So you looked around your room and made some remark about how peaceful it was. Then you looked at the friend who had brought you and you said 'I wish ...' But you did not finish the sentence. Instead you looked up and said, 'Father, You do all things well. Thank you.'"

I was trying to get through the book at the time and it was a few weeks before I had time to go back and locate the passage. It had continued to niggle at the edge of my mind and heart. What was it about wishin' that had caused Corrie ten Boom to stop and pray? It seemed so innocuous. My meditation has been developing into a deep glimpse into my heart.

God is sovereign. As Creator and Sustainer, He is the ultimate authority and ruling power of the world. He oversees every detail, no-thing escapes His notice, that His will might be accomplished and His glory made known. The Word also teaches that God is at work in the lives of His own as He prepares them to spend eternity in His presence. Romans 8:28-30 is only one place where this refining activity is outlined. These truths lead us to the only reasonable conclusion. Since God knows and orchestrates every detail of our lives (the good, the bad AND the ugly) for our sanctification, the circumstances around us MUST be what He has arranged for that purpose.

Okay then, that must mean that the rainy day, the place I live, the person to whom I am married, are all part of God's perfect plan to transform me into the image of His Son. 2 Corinthians 3:18 It may not be easy to come to grips with that truth when the picnic is ruined or the house needs repairs or my husband and I are arguing. Circumstances of any kind do not change Truth. It is unalterable. It is what Francis Schaeffer called True Truth.

Since the circumstances in my own life are set and overseen by God for my best and His glory because I am His, bought with a price, that must also be True for all those whom He has chosen. The situations surrounding my Brothers and Sisters are also being coordinated by God for their sanctification. Our Father is using the details of their lives to cause the man to truly undertake his manly duties, the woman to meet her responsibilities, and all of them to seek His will. Real change happens in the heart and God is the One who affects those changes. Acts 16:14

By God's grace, the rest I have been enjoying as I settle into a richer understanding of His sovereignty in my own life has been spreading into my thoughts about the lives others. I find myself praying with an honestly thankful heart as I consider circumstances and situations in the lives of those I love. The mindset and heart condition of Eli in 1 Samuel 3:18 is a model to emulate. Upon learning that God was about to carry out His promised retribution for the sin in his family for which no sacrifice or offering could atone, Eli said, "He is the Lord; let Him do what is good in His eyes."

Scripture tells us that surrender is part of godly worship. Matthew 4:10 directs all believers to "Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only." I want to be fully yielded to my loving Father. I want my wishin' to be transformed by my hopin'. I want to be lost in the wonder of who God is and all that He has prepared for me both now and in the future. Psalm 42:5; 62:5; 147:11, Isaiah 40:31, Romans 5:4; 12:12, Titus 2:13, Hebrews 6:19,20, 1 John 3:1-3 Hallelujah! Christ, in me, is the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27

How my life is changing:

I find myself checking out the wishin' I do.
Am I subtly whining about God's provisions in His love-inspired shepherding?

I find myself identifying with Paul in wrestling my body into submission. 1 Corinthians 9:27

I find myself coming more quickly and fully into my Daddy's presence, asking Him to make His will my own.
Am I willing to worship God no matter the setting?

I find myself turning my wishin' for other folks into prayers of thanksgiving for God's divine work in their lives.
Do I really know that much that I even have an inkling of what needs to happen?

I find myself enjoying more freedom and a richer prayer life. Praise God!

May these thoughts on Wishin' encourage you to set your heart more fully on A-hopin' for "the glory that will be revealed in us". Romans 8:18
Amen and Emmanuel

Woe! and Hallelujah!

2010-02-09T13:13:00.001-05:00

The Lord has been encouraging me to contemplate the connection between these two positions for more than a week. I had three other possible topics for this post, but my Honey suggested I pursue this one so here we are.

To be fair, Curt made the remark after I shared a succinct statement so it could be that he was just trying to influence the length since he feels my glimpse reports are (shall we say) a bit wordy. I responded right away that a blog post would require further explanation, but I'm going to follow Curt's lead and see how I do.

An unfolding glimpse:
God knew me and my sin-filled heart (Woe!) before the foundation of the world, and He
still chose to write my name in the book of life,
still sent Jesus His sin-free Son to pay the blood ransom for my soul,
still granted me faith by His grace that I would understand the enormity of His love and provision, and
still undertook to sanctify me for the eternal home He has prepared for me in His Holy presence. Hallelujah!

a partial list of related verses:
Ephesians 1:4-8
Revelation 21:27
Ephesians 2:4,5
Romans 3:21,26; 8:29,30

Soldiers and Sheep

2010-02-01T14:27:00.003-05:00

In early December we enjoyed a few wonderful days with our precious grandchildren. We built and demolished a gingerbread house, shopped for "Mom and Dad", went to the Christmas tea party at our local library, and put out our nativity decorations. It was a treat to talk about the incarnation as we set up the manger scene, and to share the continuity of our marriage as we hung a special set of lights for the 41st time. God is gracious!

We're beginning to notice that as the children mature it gets harder to take them home. It's easy to settle back into the slower, quieter tone in our own home, but they bring so much to us. William and James keep Doc busy, and Caroline keeps Marmee entertained. God knows we miss them and is so sweet to tend our hearts. This morning we chuckled when we discovered a heavenly reminder of our time together.

We’re sure it wasn't a sacrilegious statement, but there was an addition to the manger scene - a little green sniper hidden behind a lamb. He was obviously preparing to take out an enemy grenade thrower on the neighboring chair. The army guys brought back the dialogue, sound effects, and giggles of our grandsons' playtime. We thanked God for their visit and the reminder, but evidently we needed more.

The next day I discovered two more soldiers safely camouflaged behind the guest towel in the bathroom. Once again smiles broke out on our faces. We weren’t sure what their mission was, but we granted these faithful military men leave with their buddies. We figured they'd earned it.

We cherish the tender blessings our heavenly Father sends our way. We aren't sure when we'll be granted a glimpse of His mercies so we do our best to keep our eyes open and focused godward. May the Father bless you with glorious glimpses of your own. Amen

Computers and Ladders

2010-01-11T09:15:00.005-05:00

"So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the secret things of God. Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful. I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself." 1 Corinthians 3:1,2

The Lord brought this passage to my attention recently. It's not that I haven't read it before. My eyes have passed over and my brain has decoded the words on many occasions. Their impact, however, escaped me until this reading. I've been chewing on them ever since. It would take the Lord to use the debacle with my computer to shed light on their meaning.

Computers are wonderful machines. Their uses and benefits would be too extensive to list here. BUT when they won't perform properly or stop functioning all together, it can turn life upside down. Take for example the pharmacy whose computers went off-line in mid-December. For nearly an hour, the staff could only process purchases for customers who had enough cash to cover their total. Frustration reigned on both sides of the counter. A similar situation occurred in my house which lasted much longer.

My former computer, whose manufacturer shall remain nameless but falls under the category of PC, stopped connecting to the internet in October. It was easy enough to commandeer Curt's computer from time to time for email, but I wasn't able to spend any significant time online. That meant that I was prevented from affecting the monthly updates to the Lifework Forum website. It was difficult to be kept from this regular responsibility so I set about figuring out a way around the impasse.

No, the manufacturer would not/could not offer an easy solution. The computer would have to be sent back to them for an unknown cost and with no guarantee that my files would be safe.

No, the local repairmen couldn't offer anything better.

No, I couldn't access the necessary software from any other computer.

Okay, so the answer would have to be something dramatic. We came to the decision that we were being providentially directed to purchase a new computer. Hallelujah, my two year dream was about to come true.

No, that did not solve the problem.

No, the software that drove the website was not compatible with the new computer.

No, the publisher was not willing/not able to trade the PC version for a Mac version because the software had been updated.

Ah, ha, the old computer mysteriously connected to the internet. I scurried around to revise the necessary pages thinking I could update the website at least once more in the old way and would buy some time as I looked for a long-term resolution.

No, when I was ready to publish the revisions the computer would no longer connect to the internet. I was tired of seeing that little red X.

No, we still didn't have the money or desire to purchase more expensive, complicated software.

To say that I was frustrated would be an understatement. I felt I'd been diligent in trying to sort out the problem. It had been a matter of prayer and effort for quite a while. I just wanted it to be over so that I could carry on with my life. Then came the day when I started to make progress. The Lord made it plain that it was time to let the old computer, software, procedures, expectations, etc. go. The energy I was spending in that direction needed to be released to move in the direction He was laying out for His purposes. That little glimpse began to blossom.

Yes, the "old" is gone.

Yes, God is still in this thing with me and there is a solution.

Yes, I have a new, fancy computer and lots to learn.

Yes, there's a whole cast of characters at the Apple store who can help me - for FREE.

Yes, there's a glimmer of hope for this old lady to become conversant in yet another program.

Yes, I began to make valuable strides.

Yes, hallelujah, the Lifework Forum website is once again up and running. (http://www.LifeworkForum.org)

As I sat back and reveled in the relief of meeting my goal, various thoughts began to connect. It was when I laid my dilapidated PC to rest and turned my attention toward moving forward that I made progress. 1 Corinthians 3 came back into my mind. Perhaps part of the process Paul was outlining, "I do not even judge myself, has to do with dwelling on my sin. Scripture is clear about the need to confess and repent so he can't be espousing the idea that God's people are to avoid any kind of self-evaluation before the heavenly throne. Rather, I suspect we are to make our relationships right with God and then move on in His mercy and grace. Otherwise we can become trapped and/or paralyzed.

That's when I pictured myself in the middle of a very long ladder as when I was cleaning out the gutters last fall. At one point I stopped climbing and I felt how wobbly the ladder was. I looked down and saw how high I was and how hard that asphalt was below me. I considered how easy it would be to fall and began to imagine how painful the broken bones would be. I've been in many places and situations that produced the same results.

Of course, practical wisdom says that when climbing a ladder one needs to keep their eyes directed toward the top, focused on the sought-for goal. Once again Paul comes to mind. Divine wisdom applies that same concept to the process of sanctification.

"Brothers, I do to consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13,14

Thank you, Father, for your Word and the ministrations of your Holy Spirit. Amen

Standards and Siblings

2009-12-09T08:58:00.003-05:00

God has been speaking to me about something. I've been pondering the issue and seeking guidance in the Scriptures. Last night a note in my Bible from 20 years ago caught my attention and focused my thoughts.

I've been noticing that I feel unsettled when brothers and sisters in Christ share with me that they've told others not to worry about not meeting a commitment because "Sandra will understand". I'm glad that people don't see me as a demanding, judgmental and unforgiving person, but somehow it's uncomfortable to think that my opinion is being used as a standard for anybody in terms of their Christian life. Let me see if I can clarify.

I believe that God tells His people what He expects from us. The Bible is full of specific directions and general principles to guide our behavior. For example, those who love God are to follow the dictates of the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) in how we live, not only on the outside but also on the inside (Matthew 5:28). We are expected to worship God and Him only and details are given about what true worship looks like and what it requires. (Genesis 22:1-5, 24:26,27,47,48; Hebrews 12:28,29; John 4:24) There is a whole list of duties for the Christian from tending our personal relationship with God through body life and into the sharing of the Gospel.

Obedience to God's mandates is not a matter of what feels comfortable, or seems to be the best idea, or follows a majority vote. Our loving Father has clearly communicated His directions to His chosen offspring. The Lord Jesus explains, "If you love me, you will obey what I command." (John 14:15) That means spending consistent time in prayer, meditating on and memorizing His Word, plumbing the depths of the Scriptures through study, and being part of a corporate body that worships regularly. Among other characteristics, we are to be truth tellers and word keepers. (Acts 5:1-11; James 5:12) These are some of the basics of what might be called Christian duties. It's up to those who are truly members of God's family to bring our lives in line with His standards by His design and guidance. (Philippians 2:13)

God compares His people to a human body with various, interrelated parts that are valuable and necessary one to another. (1 Corinthians 12:12-31) We are meant to be in community where we encourage and challenge each other with hearts full of praise and gratitude for all that our heavenly Father has done for us. (Romans 12:15,16; Colossians 3:15,16) We are to look to the interests of others as we avoid judgementalism, being cautious to tend to the places where our lives do not meet His measure. (Philippians 2:4; Matthew 7:1-5)

These points of understanding are some of those I incorporate as I run the race set before me. (Hebrews 12:1,2) They are why when someone explains the reason they didn't meet a certain responsibility I do my best to offer a gracious response. My Daddy knows how far short I fall of His standards and accepts me as I am, not because I in myself am desirable, but because I am encased with the righteousness of His Beloved Son. He is full of forgiveness and grants me grace out of the richness of His mercy. (Exodus 33:19, Romans 9:15, Ephesians 2:4) How can I offer less to my siblings?

I trust that God knows what the circumstances were and the obedient response that was required. He knows each heart and what it needs - perfectly. It's not up to me to judge the soundness of the reason nor the condition of my sibling's heart. I admit that it's a bit more difficult at some times than others. There was the day I was told that Sunday morning was the only time someone's refrigerator could receive its necessary weekly cleaning. Then there are the moments when the thought floats through my mind that a sibling seems quite able to schedule all manner of activities but is somehow incapable of attending a Bible study or prayer meeting or accomplishing a task they arranged. I do better on some days than others and rejoice that God's Word is living and active, accomplishing His purpose - enlightening my mind and disciplining my heart. (Hebrews 4:12, Exodus 55:11)

The crux of my dilemma is that I am beginning to feel that some of my siblings may be misreading/mistaking my gracious response as a release from their Christian duty. My compassionate remark cannot be the final step in the process we all need to undertake as we pursue holiness. (1 Peter 1:15,16) I need to check my own heart and life. Do I allow the understanding of others when I display my weaknesses to be my measure of approval or acceptance? How do I receive the empathy offered by a sister who may have struggled in a similar way or her encouragement to persevere under God's principles? Do I adjust my personal expectations to match those of others? Or do I bring the whole collection of circumstances, behaviors and attitudes to my loving Father in prayer and through His Word? Do I aim primarily at His standards and priorities for righteousness in my inner life and outward behavior? (Matthew 6:33)

Paul makes it clear whose standard we are to meet. Just because Sister Suzy says she's not upset when I say I haven't been able to attend a meeting or meet a commitment I made doesn't make it okay. God knows what the situation was. He knows how tired I really was and whether or not I used that as an excuse because my heart wasn't really open to worship or pray or study, or if I simply changed my mind about doing what I said I would do. It doesn't really matter what anybody else thinks.

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices holy and pleasing to God-this is your spiritual act of worship." (Romans 12:1) God is the only name listed. God is the One we are to please. Yes, we need to be gracious to our siblings. We are to urge and inspire each other in developing godly attitudes and actions. (Hebrews 10:24) We must not become standard-setters for each other. Our Savior and King is the authority to whom we must yield.

While we enjoy the horizontal relationship with which our Father has blessed us, let's be careful not to let it become a poor, sinful and dangerous substitute for our intimate relationship with Him - not on any level, for any reason, at any time. A dear sister expresses it this way, "We are to play to an audience of One."

Thank you, Lord, for granting the opportunity to communicate this glimpse into the spiritual life you nurture in us. Please cause each of us you've called to yourself to glorify you and enjoy you forever. Amen

PING and Providence

2009-11-09T08:39:00.004-05:00

Curt and I recently spent three weeks in China. It seems only appropriate that my first post after returning would be based on "The Story About PING", a classic children's book by Marjorie Flack and Kurt Wiese. In case you don't know the tale, Ping is a "beautiful young duck" whose home was "a boat with two wise eyes on the Yangtze River". We didn't visit the Yangtze, but we did enjoy our time in Kunming and Beijing.

If you haven't read the book, don't despair, it may actually be easier for you to grasp what I'm trying to share. If you know the story well, I pray that you'll be right beside me as I unpack my thought process.

Our trips are filled with lots of motion and interaction. Planes, buses, taxis, cars, and our feet keep us active. The friends we meet and make keep us hearing about and sharing the goodness of the Lord in all circumstances. Nevertheless, the Spirit provides many, often subtle, opportunities to get to know the Father more intimately and grow in grace.

When things don't go according to plan, assuming there was any possibility to have any semblance of a plan, there is always a choice to make - trust God or freak out. It was at one such juncture on the faraway streets of China that I began to ponder my options. The situation was scary and there simply wasn't anything I could do about it. I wanted to trust my loving Father. After all, He's God, Maker of heaven and earth, the One who made me and called me, who sent His Son to shed His blood for my soul and then gave me to my Redeemer to shepherd through this life with the guidance of His appointed Counselor, the Holy Spirit of God. What better place to put my trust!

The truth is that I find it a lot easier to sense my confidence and trust in God when I'm having an intellectual discussion than in the midst of overwhelming trials. I chalk that up to my human frailties and life in a fallen world. Even as the crisis was unfolding I caught my inner self reminding me that God knows the end from the beginning. Not only that, but His sovereign hand controls all of the steps in between. And God coordinates each and every detail along the way for the benefit of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.

"Okay then," I decided, "I can trust You, my Father, in this harrowing experience because You know exactly what's going to happen and it will be for my good. I have no idea what it will entail and, just so you know, my feelings are telling me to bail out right now."

Believe it or not, that's when PING came to mind.

You see, I had read the story to a group of children the day before. If you've read it, you will be where I was - knowing how the tale would end though the children did not. I knew what Ping's life was like on the Yangtze River with "his mother and his father and two sisters and three brothers and eleven aunts and seven uncles and forty-two cousins." I knew how Ping's days would unfold, what he would do and eat, and how he would feel about the Master's behavior at the end of the day. I even knew how Ping would react on that fateful day.

Those of you who don't know PING are sitting beside the children in my story hour. You're also sitting with me as I felt the panic rise as the helplessness of my situation washed over me in my crisis. What's Ping/am I going to do? What's going to happen to Ping/me? How's it all going to turn out - for Ping and me?

I began to contemplate how I might have had Ping's story unfold had I been the author. I'm not sure I would have had Ping choose to do what he did. I could have written the story to save Ping from the results of his decision. Ping would have had a much happier day, if he chose differently. Then it dawned on me that Ping might not learn the valuable lesson, if he didn't have to face the circumstances he did.

Hmmmm, maybe my adjusted version wouldn't address Ping's maturity level too cleanly. Perhaps he'd be right back where he was on page one. I conceded that there might be some wisdom in the authors' addressing Ping's growth and development in the first instance. My version might have appeared more gentle, but I might not be serving Ping's best. It was interesting to contemplate such possibilities having the inside knowledge.

My crisis continued to unfold. I asked the Lord for His intervention and, impatiently, some insight into how the terror was supposed to be good for me.

Suddenly, I saw the comparison between the author of a book and the Author of life. I knew what was going to happen to Ping only because I'd already read the book. God knows what's going to happen in my life because He's the Author of it. God knows what my life is like on Loon Pond with my Honey. He knows how my days will unfold, what I will do and eat, and how I will feel about what comes across my path. He even knows how I will react in the face of every situation.

I am not able to read ahead in the book of my life. I am as unfamiliar with the upcoming pages as those of you who haven't read the book are unfamiliar with what happens to Ping. Whenever I read PING aloud I find a sweet, secret sort of confidence that may echo with those of you who know the story. As the children walk through the ups and downs of Ping's adventure they may wonder what will happen. They may feel the same tension that Ping experiences. Until the last page they don't know how it will turn out, but I do.

I know the end of Ping's story so I don't go through any of my listeners' wonderings or feelings. I walk with the first-time hearers appreciating their responses and hoping to communicate the calm assurance that it will be a "happily ever after" ending. When I close the cover and look up we rejoice together that Ping is safe at home. I catch a glimpse of what my walk with my Father might be like from His vantage point. God knows what's coming. He is not subject to the doubt and emotional stirrings we experience. He is communicating His calm assurance about the just and joyous rewards of heaven. "No eye has seen, nor ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him." Isaiah 64:4; Corinthians 2:9

I am able to rest in the everlasting arms of my Father as I remember His perfect, sovereign providence. "'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.'" Jeremiah 29:11 "And we know that all things work together for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28 Amen

Rock and Sand

2009-10-06T10:47:00.002-04:00

Have you ever had an occasion when it seemed that brand new words somehow appeared in the text of your Bible? It happened to me recently and I've been contemplating the incident ever since.

As I was preparing to lead a study my research took me to the end of Luke chapter 6. That's where the parable of the wise and foolish builders is recorded. I passed my eyes casually over the words asking the Spirit to make the connection for me to the topic of the study. When I read verse 48, "He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock."(NIV) My antennae went up and my mind was suddenly in red alert mode.

Where in the world did those words, "dug down deep and laid the foundation" come from? I honestly couldn't remember ever having read them before. I rushed to the concordance and found that the same parable is also recorded in Matthew 7. Sure enough, those specific words do not appear there. Verse 24 ends with, "like a wise man who built his house on the rock". I realized that the Matthew passage must be the only one I'd previously read.

These kinds of discoveries are one of the ways the Lord reaches into my occasionally relaxed attitude about His Word and grabs my attention. I began to ponder the additional detail provided in Luke and asking the Spirit to guide my thinking. The insights I was given have stuck with me and I've already shared them with a number of friends.

You see, the picture I had from the Matthew passage was of two men who built similar houses - one set on a rock and the other set on a sandy beach. Old Yankees like me understand that important difference because we've weathered Nor'easters and hurricanes along the New England coast. Anything set on sand will surely be washed away, while things set on a rock are much more secure.

I have to admit though that there were times when my image of two identical houses caused me some discomfort. You see, I have witnessed times when structures have been washed right off of rocky islands. But God's Word is God's Word and He said the house on the rock stood firm under the onslaught of a storm. That was good enough for me.

What joy and delight to have the Luke version of the parable clarify the situation. The man who built his house on the rock "dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock". (Luke 6:48) He wasn't going to take any chances on having the precious structure he labored over washed away by any outside threat. He put his back into the task and excavated until he found rock solid enough to secure the foundation and support the entire house. He wanted his home to be secure for the long haul so he began by applying himself to the task of setting it on solid footing.

The parable took on a whole new perspective. It's possible that the wise and foolish man's houses did look identical to a passerby during beautiful weather - perhaps even surrounded by lovely landscaping. It would be when the "torrent struck" (v. 48, 49) that the difference would become obvious. The wiseman's house with the firm foundation set on rock would not even be shaken. The foolish man's house with an insufficient foundation would "collapse and its destruction [be] complete." (v. 49) The importance and value of the support below the surface would be clear to even the casual observer. One building much as it was before the storm, the other in shambles.

The spiritual comparison is easy to make. The person who humbly approaches God for wisdom builds their life on the solid foundation of a relationship with Him through Christ's atoning sacrifice, the truth of His Word, and a loving desire to be a doer of that word and not a hearer only. (James 1:22) Such a life will be sustained and unshaken when the storms strike. No amount of wind, rain, hail, trials, struggles, loss, deprivation, opposition, persecution, etc. will move such a life. "God's solid foundation stands firm." 2 Timothy 2:19

The person who stands alone builds their life on the foolishness of their own thinking. Such a life cannot withstand the storms that threaten it. Wind, rain, and all the pressures of this fallen world will cause such a life to collapse and be totally destroyed. "He who trusts in himself is a fool." (Proverbs 28:26a)

Hallelujah that God indwells His people by the power of the Holy Spirit. He leads and guides us according to the Father's wisdom. "For in Him we live and move and have our being." (Acts 17:28) Christ Himself calls out to His Father for our protection. "I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours. ... My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one." (John 17:9,15)

Praise God that He always keeps His promises. (Numbers 23:19) He is the refuge for the righteous and we are secure in Him. (Hebrews 6:13-20)

Then it dawned on me - no wonder sanctification is hard, often dirty work. The process is represented in this parable by digging down until we find rock that is solid enough for a foundation on which to secure the building called my life. Plumbing the incredible depths of the unshakable truths of Scripture and seeking an intimate relationship with God Himself take time and effort. There's a lot of dirt and filth to dig through both in my heart and the world around me. We shouldn't be surprised by the effort or the muck.

Thank you, Lord, for this glimpse at the awesome work of salvation that provides the solid rock for my sanctification. Please continue to work out your good purpose in my life and cause me to stand firm amidst any and all dangers and evil that you alone might be glorified and your Name hallowed in all the earth. Amen

Suitcases and Horizons

2009-09-07T09:38:00.004-04:00

The traveling I do is often misunderstood. Some folks think that just because I get on an airplane and go to some faraway place that I must be on vacation. Others realize that I am in the service of our Risen Savior as He blesses me with outreach opportunities for sharing the gospel. Though ministry to those the Father sets before me is the stated purpose, the trips I make have another eternal impact.

Case in point:
Last week I realized that it was only seven more days until I needed to be ready to go to the airport. I pulled out my suitcases and piled the items I was preparing to take with me into them. Curt thoughtfully weighed the two I would be checking and the larger carry-on. They were within the allowable limits so I relaxed with a sigh and went on with other tasks.

This particular journey will include three destinations. Each stop will entail a variety of activities. There will be a mixture of group gatherings, family meetings, and individual consultations. As you can imagine, besides the packing, there are a lot of other preparations that need to be made for the trip. In the midst of all of that, there are also the task before me at home. It's important to take care of the responsibilities I will leave behind. Needless to say I was busy.

A few days ago the Lord gave me the impetus to move along in the packing process. This step usually doesn't happen until much closer to my departure date, but my main goal for this trip is to "remain in the vine" so I responded. John 15:4 I dutifully organized the materials and placed them into the available space. As the suitcases I intended to check filled up I moved things into the larger carry-on. When I was done I realized there was no room left for clothes. 8-0 I decided to continue "resting" which took me to the other activities of my day.

The next day I began the process of laying out clothes. I concentrated on choosing the bare minimum - underwear, one skirt, two sleeveless and two short-sleeve blouses, a spare pair of slacks. I switched from my handy little cosmetic carrier to a zip-lock baggie for my toiletry items. Hurrah, I was able to tucked everything into hollow corners. Then it was time to do the final weight check.

At first I thought everything was fine though the larger carry-on was way too heavy. I figured I'd just have to get help to put it into the overhead compartment ... and disguise how much effort I'd have to use to drag it around with me. ;-) Then Curt discovered that the airlines have changed the weight limits for baggage. Oh no!! My mind started to race. "What am I going to do with the six pounds I need to take out of that one bag." "There simply is no more space and I can't add another carry-on, what now?" "I only have three more days until I fly out." "I can't leave any of this stuff behind."

The Spirit delivered the warning, "Remember, Sandra, your number one goal for this trip is to 'rest in the vine'." Thank you, Jesus.

I turned my mind to the Word of God and the promises it contains. "Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6, Hebrews 13:5 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5,6 "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

I settled back into the Truth. I was able to release the concern and tension and put the solution into God's omnipotent hands. After all, there were plenty of other tasks to occupy my time and attention. I shared the need through an email to a group of colleagues asking for their prayer and put down the topic completely. It was a blessed opportunity to let God be God. Amen

Through a series of events that I will keep to myself for the privacy of those involved, God put a check into my hands for the amount needed to check a third suitcase - less than 24 hours after the request for prayer was posted. Hallelujah! I need to stick with my limited wardrobe and the zip-lock baggie, but nothing has to be left behind. Oh, the Lord is good! His mercies are not only new every morning. They are sweet!

Yes, this is an incredible victory for the benefit of those God has called me/us to serve. The curriculum and materials I will deliver will be a serious encouragement to their growth in grace as they build families under Christ. I praise His Holy Name for these blessings. There is another level to the dynamic that is becoming more and more obvious as the years unfold. God uses scenarios like this on each trip to encourage, reinforce and refine for my faith. Only He would know about the connection I would make with horizons.

I was praising God for the various details of His intervention - the funds for the additional suitcase, the hearts He moved to make it happen, the speedy timing, etc. Of course the peace that I'd been given was high on the list. I began to ponder God's faithfulness in allowing me to meet the #1 goal of this particular journey in the face of possible catastrophe. Hmmm, how did He work in me to accomplish such a breakthrough?

I was reminded of a particular skill taught me by my father, a retired member of the US Coast Guard. When you're out on the water and you're looking for something such as a buoy or landmark, the best way to find it is to scan the horizon. I've had plenty of opportunity to verify his words as I was raised on the ocean. My experience confirms the truth of His statement. If my eyes fixate on a specific spot, I am unable to locate anything. If I move them back and forth across the horizon, I am much more likely to pick up the marker I seek.

Curt has confirmed the same training and results from his time at sea with the US Navy. When he went to serve his night duty watch, he was expected to arrive early so that his eyes would get accustomed to the dark. Then he was to constantly scan the horizon to pick up any objects that might appear. In this way, he was more likely to be successful. That was the normal responsibility of anyone on watch, day or night.

The situation with the suitcases could have followed the old pattern of anxiety, confusion, frustration, and so on. Instead God intervened and short-circuited all of that unhealthy, unproductive angst. He led me to continue in the other tasks before me as I waited on Him for the solution. Philippians 2:13 I was to "remain in the vine" as I went about my routine. My reward came when His provision popped up on the horizon.

This latest episode in my divine education is a blessed one. I praise God that His answer was so specific and speedy. It is not always so, but He knows my needs and desires and always responds perfectly. This glimpse is especially poignant. I can assure you that in the future I will be much more likely to apply my head and hands to the task before me as my eyes scan the horizon for my Daddy's intervention.

What victory there is in yielding to the Father's will. What joy there is in trusting the "ever-present help in trouble". Psalm 46:1

Heavy and Light

2009-08-06T09:59:00.008-04:00

It was a small ladies Bible study around the table on our deck. God was blessing us with lovely weather and good conversation. I was unprepared for the full-blown glimpse I was about to receive.

The topic of the day was humility and we were going through a string of verses that held a variety of points. I admit that I hadn't paid much attention to that word in my previous readings of Matthew 11:28-30. "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

We began to talk about the passage and one of the ladies made a comment that went something like this. "I know what a yoke is and they are heavy things. I don't see how a yoke could ever be called light. Actually, this verse doesn't make any sense to me at all." I began making my way through what I thought was a reasoned explanation by pointing out that the One who spoke the words was Jesus the Christ.

It was easy enough to talk about Jesus' call for those who are "weary and burdened" to come to Him for rest. That covers pretty much all of us living in this fallen world. I was able to mention some of the specific struggles that were tiring burdens for some of us. I paused before taking on the next sentence though. It's an interesting combination of directions and results.

Jesus seems to be telling those who are already dragging a heavy load to add the weight of a heavy farm implement. The key is that it is His yoke that he calls us to take on our shoulders. To make the point, I took out a pen and drew a simple yoke with two neckbands. Jesus isn't directing His people to pick up a dead weight and add it to the burdens we are already carrying. He's calling us to put ourselves under a yoke to spread out the burden.

I've learned a lot about yokes lately. Directions for making a yoke include measuring the animal. Time needs to be spent carving, sanding, and finishing the wood for a proper fit. It's not a complicated piece of equipment, but it is highly efficient for harnessing power. A pair of oxen under yoke are able to pull more than double the weight a single ox can handle on his own.

Sharing the load is only one benefit of a yoke. One of the ways to train a young or inexperienced ox is to yoke it with an older, experienced animal. The yoke itself becomes an educational method as the pair shoulder the weight-bearing task. The one needing the training is directly connected to the appropriate tutor making it difficult to miss the important lessons.

Jesus' call is not to take up just any yoke. It's His yoke that He wants us to put on. The goal is not merely to offload some of the weight of the struggles we face by sharing them with someone else. Jesus offers Himself as a yoke-mate. He is the One who will shoulder the weight; the weight of the yoke itself as well as the struggles. He wants us to be right next to Him that we might learn His ways.

I looked to the next phrase to continue my way through the passage - "for I am gentle and humble in heart". Right here in this particular analogy Jesus shares these two particular attributes. As with the idea of a heavy yoke being light, gentle and humble don't seem to be attributes to esteem when looking to accomplish a formidable task. What could gentleness and humility have to do with it?

I silently and earnestly asked the Spirit for help and picked up my pencil. To buy some time, I drew a simple yoke to illustrate what we were discussing and wrote J-e-s-u-s in the left neckband. Then it hit me. Jesus is describing His own heart condition when He is under His yoke. Our Older Brother is setting the example for coming under His tutelage as we make our way through this life.

I've often thought about being yoked with Jesus as His helping me manage burdens. I've even imagined Him pulling me along to keep my path nice and straight. But truly seeing the word humble for the first time in the analogy was a major glimpse. I shared the insight with the ladies in the study, but it was much more than that.

The study was over and the ladies were gone. I looked at my drawing and began to consider my own stiff-necked heart. I know I'm one of God's chosen and I look forward with biblical hope to eternity with Him. I also know that the trials of this life are too heavy for me. I want/need to be under Jesus' direct tutelage every moment. I thought about what it would take to come under His yoke.

To be humble is to be "not proud or arrogant; modest ... having a feeling of insignificance, inferiority, subservience ... courteously respectful." Interestingly, Webster's Unabridged Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language, Gramercy Books 1989, also gives the following examples. "I am humble in the presence of the starry firmament. I am your humble disciple in all things of the spirit."

Oh yes, I'm aware of my humble position before the holy, triune God. He has taught me well that it is in Him that I live and move and have my being. Acts 17:27 I can do nothing on my own to please Him. He is the One who works in me to will and to act according to His good purpose. Philippians 2:13 It is Jesus who presents me before the throne of grace. Hebrews 7:25 It is the Spirit who testifies on my behalf. Romans 8

Acknowledging these truths and many others, in my mind's eye I lower my head and come along side Jesus under His yoke. The neckband slips on easily and is a perfect fit. My soul is indeed at rest. The burdens of this life are lighter as my Savior and Lord shoulders them with and for me. He has much to teach me and I long to learn. Jesus is calling all of His children to bow their heads and take up His yoke. How about you?

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."

Thanks and Glory

2009-07-20T17:18:00.000-04:00

When I was a kid I was taught that a thank you note was an important piece of social etiquette. I'm not sure why that lesson stuck so securely to my life, but it did. When I became a mother I wanted to prepare my children for the grown up world and thank you notes became part of their lives too. In that process God showed me that expressing thanks was more about developing thankful hearts than meeting an unwritten moral code.

I've noticed that this small social grace has, for the most part, fallen out of fashion. Thankfully that never happens to God's Word. The Scriptures abound with the call for God's people to be thankful - actively, expressively thankful. Lately I've been pondering 2 Corinthians 4:15 and it has opened up a wider horizon on the topic of thanks-giving.

All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.

First, I had to look back to find out to what "all this" refers. The previous verses outline the assurance believers have of being raised to new life in and with Jesus. *1* These indescribable gifts are given "for your benefit." Since this book was written to the church of God in Corinth, I understand that the benefits are for followers of Jesus. *2*

"So that" implies there is a specific purpose for the aforementioned gifts to be given. I learn that God's grace is "reaching more and more people" as He calls His chosen ones to Himself with the desired consequence being the "overflow" of "thanksgiving." What more reasonable and expected result could there be from a heart redeemed from the wrath of a holy God, reconciled with the Creator, and secured for an eternity of praise, worship and service to the King of Glory? *3*

For me, the end of this verse is the most powerful piece, "to the glory of God". I have long sought to fulfill the ultimate goal of a grateful, fallen child's heart as described by the Westminster Shorter Catechism - The chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy him forever." I am thunderstruck by the possibility . . . probability . . . the reality that hearts overflowing with thankfulness for the gift of grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-10) actually bring glory to God! *4*

When one recognizes and comes to realize more fully the immeasurable parameters and value of the gift, thankfulness is the only possible response. As one ponders our own undeserving nature and imperfect performance, thankfulness erupts that God bases His covenant on His own character and not ours. As one considers the blessings of His daily presence and promised inheritance, thankfulness automatically overwhelms and flows forth from our being.

The very gifts that God Himself grants stimulate the heart condition of thankfulness that He craves and calls for from His chosen people. We can't help but tell others how loving are the ways of our Father, how compassionate is the ministry of The Son, how intimate is the counsel of the Spirit. Simply by telling others of God's amazing grace to me we are/I am enabled and empowered to reach the goal by The One who set it in place. Hallelujah!! *5*

I wonder what it would look like if God's people were to send a thank you note toward heaven every time they recognized one of His blessings. Would the halls be littered with envelopes? Would the gates wear out with mail deliveries? Would the air be filled with messages winging heavenward? Would our pockets be empty from the cost of postage?

Here's my tentative but confident beginning contribution to that scenario:

*1* Thank you, God, for your gift of salvation through Christ and the glorious eternal life in Your presence that awaits those who believe.
*2* Thank you, Father, for your personal gift of faith and the future you have in store for me.
*3* Thank you, Jesus, for your substitutionary and atoning sacrifice that grants the abundant life both now and for ever more.
*4* Thank you, Holy Spirit, for this fresh, illuminating glimpse.
*5* Thank you, perfect Triune God, for waking me up this morning in my right mind and setting me on my way. May you alone be honored and glorified. Amen

Economics and Neighbors

2009-06-10T22:19:00.002-04:00

Economics is a major topic of conversation these days and for good reason. I confess that I try to avoid the raging dialogue and have been fairly successful in my efforts. This week God gave me a glimpse of His divine economics and it took my breath away.

I was in a serious conversation with a woman who was sharing her struggles with relationships. As I listened it seemed to me that her desire to please God by caring for others might be a bit out of balance. In an effort to make her love visible to those around her she was extending herself to the point of exhaustion. She was overspending in the area of finances, time, energy and peace.

This woman is a committed follower of the Lord Jesus Christ and rests in his righteousness alone. He has bound our lives up together and created a Titus 2 relationship. In that context I felt led to speak to her about the bigger picture I was discerning. I prayed and ventured forth.

We spoke deeply and candidly and God blessed the conversation. I prayed that he would give me a portion of Scripture to make the concept clear. The words of Jesus in the second half of Matthew 19:19 came to mind, "Love your neighbor as yourself".

I quoted the verse to the woman and she came right back saying, “If I was going to love my neighbor or anybody else the way I love myself, it would be pretty bad.” I was stunned - first because her response was so quick and certain, then because I recognized the truth of her remark, and finally because I wasn’t sure what to say next. I called out to the One who had given me the verse and asked for help. That’s when I learned about God’s “reverse economics”.

You see, Matthew 19:19 communicates more than what appears in the initial reading. Yes, Jesus calls his people to love others the way we love ourselves. Love for others is meant to be predicated upon, built on, the foundation of our love for our own selves. Now before we go too far with this self love idea we need to consider the words of Philippians 2:4, "Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."

Both of these verses set up a balance between two parties, an equivalency. In order for us to love our neighbor, we must first love ourselves. The expectation that God’s people will look out for the interests of others comes from the expectation that they are already looking out for their own interests. The precepts of these verses can be considered in reverse order. God speaks to the importance of taking care of ourselves while speaking against selfishness.

Those who have trouble recognizing that they have needs and/or that they should seek the Lord to meet them, and even those who find it difficult to accept that they have value as his creation are often unable to approach these verses as others do. Rather, they need to consider how well they treat those around them and begin to apply the same standards to themselves. The person who empties their pockets to buy endless non-essentials for others, but goes without basic necessities themselves is not following the biblical mandate. They are also doing harm to those around them.

Those who are constantly having their whims met and are rarely expected to contribute and/or demonstrate mature godly behavior are being given a false sense of the world. They are certainly not learning the truth of who God is nor his standards and expectations. When the inordinate support falls away as it ultimately will, the immature and irresponsible are open to collapse. Only the balanced biblical love relationship brings growth in grace – not selfish but definitely not selfless either.

God’s Word is rich and full. We can read it from Genesis to Revelation and back again and be refreshed every time. I pray that our Father, His Beloved Son, and the Holy Spirit bless you through the precious gift of Scripture.

Jigsaw Puzzles and Busy Days

2009-05-04T12:16:00.001-04:00

I have a jigsaw puzzle sitting on a portable table in my living room. Winter is the season when I enjoy putting puzzles together, but this one is waiting to be finished before I rebox it and return the table to the attic. My eyes wander to the unfinished task from time to time, but I haven’t been able to sit down and apply myself to it. I tell myself it’s because I’ve got too much else to do. Then I wonder if that’s really the case.

The truth is that there’s always plenty to do around our house. Even though there are only two of us somehow things still need to be cleaned and put back in order. It’s surprising how much time and effort it takes to coordinate the lives of two adults. Then there are the relationships and responsibilities that gather outside our door. They too seem to multiply as time passes. There isn’t really any time of year when my plate is empty.

Okay, I’ll confess. The parts that are left for this puzzle are the blue sky, the foliage on the trees, and a patch of grass. You get the idea - all of the areas that require serious concentration because there are few distinguishing details. When I get to this point in any puzzle it always takes a lot more time for each piece to be put in place. I guess it could be said that this stage is not as interesting or satisfying as the earlier ones.

Yes, I have a set way that I attack jigsaw puzzles. I begin by turning over the pieces, setting aside those with straight edges to put the outside edge together first. Then I choose an interesting object to put together, locating it approximately where it should be in the overall design. I’m a visual person so this stage is quite enjoyable as I make progress quickly and the picture takes shape.

The next stage is also enjoyable. I feel a surge of accomplishment each time I’m able to connect the various objects to each other and eventually fill in whole sections. It’s interesting how much time I’m able to “find” to work on a puzzle when I’m in this stage of the process. I’m not sure, but I think the laundry does itself on those days. ;-)

I shun large jigsaws with general patterns because I’m afraid they’ll be too difficult. I find the 1000 piece size puzzle with an interesting picture the most entertaining. I love getting the pieces to fit together right where they belong to recreate the image on the box. Nevertheless, I’ve noticed that I tend to reach the phase I’m currently in with almost every jigsaw puzzle project. It causes me to ponder.

I’ve decided that I’m glad that God is not the kind of puzzle person I am.

Thank you, Father, that you began this creation project at just the right time and in the perfect process. I rejoice that You know the edges from the middle, the top from the bottom, and the exact measurements to fit on the “table”. There’s no need for You to sort or set pieces aside because they’re all under your loving care. I am delighted, dear Abba Father, that my life is as dear to you as the entire masterpiece.

Thank you, God, that you never find the jumbled up pieces of any situation too difficult, no matter how large or small. Thank you that you are always interested in every detail, using each one to advance you plan. Thank you that you are never too busy to put the pieces of my life in order, applying joy, consequences, and contentment perfectly. My heart is filled with gratitude that You are not put off by intricate designs or patches of scenery.

I am thankful, my Lord and King, that you are able to work on more than one area of my life and indeed throughout the entire world at any given moment. I praise you that as you fit the pieces of your plan together you are molding each one for its own benefit as well as to complement and benefit every other piece as it contributes to the whole. May your Name be hallowed before the seen and the unseen world.

Abba Father, I rejoice that you are The One who created the world so you never need to wonder what it will/should look like. No referring to the cover of the box for You. Each piece, each day, each item will be in its place so that your masterpiece is complete on the day You have ordained. Oh what sweet rest there is in your sovereign arms. Hallelujah Amen

Word and Deed

2009-04-03T10:13:00.002-04:00

My devotions this morning included a portion of Scripture that caused me to ponder the character of God and His presence in this fallen world. The last few months have given me a variety of reminders about the fallen aspects that have led me through deep shadows. Today I come before His throne with gratefulness and praises for sustaining me through His Word.

Isaiah 55:8-11 is a message directly from God. He begins by reminding us that His thoughts and ways are as high above ours as the heavens are above the earth. Our Heavenly Father goes on by comparing His divine faithfulness to the certainty of the water cycle - raining, watering, evaporating. He emphasizes the nourishing part of the watering phase by outlining the budding, flourishing, and harvesting it produces. In verse 11 God points out that, "so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it."

As surely as rain flows over the earth causing it to flourish, God's word flows over the earth causing His desires to be accomplished. As surely as rainwater returns to the skies having nourished the soil and thereby fed mankind, God's word returns to Him having achieved the purposes for which He sent it. As surely as rain brings moisture to dry ground and causes it to blossom, God's word brings life to troubled hearts and causes them to blossom.

How does God's word go out?
Genesis 1:3a And God said, 'Let there be light.'
In the beginning, God spoke.

Hebrews 1:1,2 In the past God spoke to our forefathers through the prophets . . . , but in the last days he has spoken to us by His Son.
John 1:1,2 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning.
Through the prophets in Old Testament times and by His Son in the New Testament, God spoke.

2 Peter 1:21 For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.
2 Timothy 3:16a All Scripture is God-breathed.
Through the men who spoke and recorded His words, God continues to speak.

What do God's words do?
Genesis 1:2a Now the earth was formless and empty, darkness over the surface of the deep.
Genesis 1:3-30 God said . . . And it was so.
God's words replace emptiness and darkness with order and beauty, life and work, love and blessings.

John 1:3,4 Through him [God's Son, the Word] all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of men.
John 10:10b I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.
Romans 5:19 For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.
Ephesians 4:12 For it was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
God's Word replaces emptiness and darkness with order and beauty, life and work, love and blessings in both the physical and spiritual realms.

2 Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.
God's words continue to replace emptiness and darkness with order and beauty, life and work, love and blessings. Hallelujah!!

How do God's words return?
Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.
Genesis 1:31-2:1 God saw all that he had made, and it was very good. Thus the heavens and the earth were completed in all their vast array.
In creation, God's words accomplished what He desired and achieved the purpose for which He sent them.

Matthew 1:21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.
Matthew 9:13b For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.
Luke 19:10 The Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.
Ephesians 4:8, Psalm 68:18 When he ascended on high, he led captives in his train and gave gifts to men.
Romans 8:34 Christ Jesus, who died - more than that, who was raised to life - is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.
Romans 5:11 Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
John 14:2 In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you.
God's Word accomplished what He desired and achieved the purpose for which His Father sent Him. The Son reigns in heaven, actively sustaining, protecting, and preparing His people to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.

Isaiah 55:11 It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.
Romans 5:1- Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us.
The Scriptures are filled with verses and passages that proclaim God's promises. They are too numerous to list here. I encourage you to seek the ones that will meet your own set of needs.
In His Holy Word, God is accomplishing that which He desires and achieves the purpose for which He sent them.

This glimpse into the character and presence of God has ignited my heart with flames of fresh life and light, peace and confidence, joy and hope. In my gratefulness I lift up all the glory, honor, praise and adoration I can imagine as a sanctified offering before His righteous throne. No matter what the circumstances I choose to wait humbly and expectantly for the blossoming that is sure to come under His hand. Amen

2009-02-10T10:43:00.003-05:00

Walking Past Roaring Lions

January was a blur for me. Was it for you? As a matter of fact, I’m using all of the discipline our Father has built into me to put this piece together. I’m looking to Him now to direct my thoughts and fingers.

The last few months have been especially trying. We’ve all had seasons such as this so I’ll trust you understand and avoid going into the details. Suffice it to say that God is making His presence known as surely as a candle seems to burn more brightly in the darkest of rooms. On Saturday He blessed me with His glorious truth in an intriguing way.

Curt and I travel north 2.5 hours once a month to encourage a group of brothers and sisters who are seeking the Lord to plant and develop a body of true worshippers. One of the ways we pass the long car ride is for me to read aloud to Curt. We are currently working our way through The Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan, a 1981 paperback version by Signet Classics, the Canadian publishing house of Penguin, Inc. The story is an allegory of our walk through justification and into the sanctification process. It’s quite insightful and includes numerous biblical references.

The passage I was reading this weekend takes place while “Christian” is making his way along the “narrow path.” Bunyan explains Christian’s visit to the cross; “his burden loosed from off his shoulders, and fell from off his back, and began to tumble, and so continued to do, till it came to the mouth of the sepulchre where it fell in and I saw it no more.” (p. 41) In other words, Christian came to faith in Jesus and was freed from his burden of sin. While this was a moving section, it was the closing paragraphs of the day’s reading that caused me to ponder.

Christian was making his way up a mountainous portion of the path when two other travelers came running down heading in the opposite direction. Their names were Timorous and Mistrust. Timorous explained that they too had been heading to the City of Zion, but that the further they went the more danger they met which finally caused them to turn back. Mistrust reported that the final barrier had been “a couple of lions in the way” which caused them to worry day and night about being ripped to shreds. They continued their retreat down the hill, but Christian pondered.

Christian understood that to go back home to the City of Destruction was to face certain death while to press on was to fear death all along the way with the safety of the Celestial City at its end. He decided to continue his journey and it wasn’t long before he was approaching a palace, a wonderful place for a much needed rest. However, Christian noticed there were two lions in the way. Though the lions were chained, Christian was unable to see their restraints and saw only death on the path ahead. He stopped in fear and began to think that he might do better following behind Timorous and Mistrust.

The Porter of the palace whose name was Watchful noticed Christian’s pause. He called out to him, “Is thy strength so small? Fear not the lions, for they are chained, and are placed there for trial of faith where it is, and for discovery of those that have none. Keep in the midst of the path, and no hurt shall come unto thee.” (p. 48) Christian heeded the directions and proceeded in spite of his trembling fear. The lions did indeed roar, but they caused him no harm. His safe passage caused him to clap his hands as he arrived at the gate where he asked what the palace was and for permission to stay the night. Porter Watchful answered, “This house was built by the Lord of the hill, and he built it for the relief and security of pilgrims.” (p. 48,49)

The path laid out for the believer is narrow, arduous, and long. The dangers are real and frightening. Praise, glory, and honor be to God that our lot is secure. Genesis 3:15, 1 Peter 5:8, Ephesians 1:4, Philippians 1:6, Romans 8:31

Lord, thank you for this allegorical glimpse at the spiritual life in this world. Please empower me to put off the arguments of Timorous and Mistrust. Cause me, like Bunyan’s Pilgrim, to push on toward the Celestial City. May I be used as Bunyan’s Porter Watchful to encourage others in their journey on the narrow path that your Name would be glorified and our joy be made complete both now and forever. Amen

A Crucible

2008-12-03T10:57:00.003-05:00

I trust you read the title of this post correctly. I do not want to appear to be in competition with a play written by Arthur Miller. Miller's play depicts the events of 1692 that led to the Salem witch trials. He wrote his piece in the 1950s in response to McCarthyism, the US government's blacklisting of accused communists. In 1996 a film version starring Winona Ryder was awarded four stars. So I guess "The Crucible" is a pretty famous literary work. (Find an article on McCarthyism, "Blacklisted by History" at www.lifeworkforum.org/writingresources/articles.)

Today I'm writing about a crucible. The Lord brought the word into my mind while I was on a recent visit with friends. I thought I knew it's meaning, but went to a dictionary for verification. Our friends have a collection of dictionaries and I found the following comparison intriguing.

The American Dictionary of the American Language from 1828 defines a crucible as:

a chimical [sic]vessel or melting pot, made of earth, and so tempered and baked, as to endure extreme heat without melting. It is used for melting ores, metals. etc.
a hollow place at the bottom of a chimmical [sic] furnace.

That means that the word "crucible" existed and was used as early as the beginning of the 19th century to mean a container that was prepared in a way that allowed it to withstand extreme heat with no ill effects. Such a container was used in the process of refining ores and metals which required extremely high temperatures. Obviously any vessel not properly prepared would itself be destroyed in the process. Crucible could also mean the hollowed out spot at the bottom of the furnace where the purified materials would come to rest.

Webster's New World College dictionary, 4th edition, 2000 defines a crucible as:

a container made of a substance that can resist great heat, for melting, fusing or calcining ores, metals, etc.
the hollow at the bottom of an ore furnace, where the molten metal collects
a severe test or trial

The 2000 definition adds further details to the 1828 understanding and shows that word usage changes over time. Evidently a crucible isn't a vessel merely prepared in a special way. The substance of which the crucible is made is also special. In order to retain its integrity under the extreme conditions in which it is used, a crucible must be both made of an exceptional material and processed in a particular way.

A crucible is still the word used to describe the resting area for the refined materials at the bottom of the furnace, but is has another usage as well. Crucible can mean a severe test or trial, a struggle of immense proportion. I find myself relating to this seldom used word. There have been numerous points in my life where I have felt as if I've been living in a furnace. I've jokingly thought a few times that Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego from the book of Daniel had nothing on me. :-) But what is a furnace supposed to do anyway?

The main purpose of a furnace is to produce heat. I'm thankful for the one that warms our home by the lake when the wood stove is cold. Furnaces are used for many things beyond heating houses. One purpose in the industrial world is annealing. My own Webster's Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language, 1989 tells me that to anneal means to:

heat (glass, earthenware, metals, etc.) to remove or prevent internal stress.
to free from internal stress by heating and gradually cooling
to toughen or temper: to anneal the mind.

Now I'm beginning to identify with a crucible as I consider my walk through this fallen world.

I certainly am basic ore, formed of raw materials and in need of refining. If I forget the impurities in my every day life, I am certainly reminded when the going gets tough. Facing a demanding task or a short deadline, adrenalin begins to flow and I can easily turn to sin. Anger, criticism, nasty attitudes, etc. spill out when I lose sight of Jesus and rest in myself. Being judged or misunderstood by others can open the door to all kinds of temptation. The furnace is on high, I can hardly breathe, and I all I want is to escape.

Praise God that He does not leave me in that place alone. The furnace is part of His plan to purify me from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 As I move through the heating and cooling process His Spirit uses it to temper my soul. Every time I go through the ups and downs of life, the Holy Spirit toughens my spirit. The heat phases teach me that I can stand in the face of adversity. The cooling off phases give me deeper understanding of the power of restoration and reconciliation. As a matter of fact, just recently I noticed that I am able to rest in the Lord more fully when faced with familiar struggles. May His Name be forever praised. Amen

How thankful I am that "we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet was without sin." Hebrews 4:15 Jesus understands every challenge and temptation I face. He was able to meet every situation with the exact response that was needed.

When things get sticky, there are lots of ways to respond. I have tried a lot of them. I can curl up in a helpless ball. I can dissolve into hopeless tears. I can throw a temper tantrum. I can turn my frustration and anger on others. I can apply the threatening-to-undo-me energy to a physical project. I can stop and pray. I turn on a worshipful CD. I can open my Bible and dwell in my Daddy's Truth. I can call a mature friend and seek godly counsel. It's hard to believe, but Jesus faced this same span of choices when He walked this earth. (Okay, maybe not the CD player or the telephone.) Yet He never made any of the wrong choices.

Of course, the key is that Jesus was fully divine at the same time He was fully human. His knowledge and understanding were perfect. He knew who was talking to Him in the desert when He responded with Scripture. Luke 4:1-13 He knew the heart of the woman at the well when He spoke of her sin and the living water available to her. John 4:1-26 He saw behind the white wash facade of the Pharisees when He confronted them about their hypocrisy. Matthew 23:13-29 He understood the blasphemy of the money changers when He drove them out of the temple. Mark 11:15-17 He was prepared for Peter's betrayal and repentance when He spoke to him with tenderness. Matthew 26:31-34 His human side must have been incredibly disrupted, but Jesus responded perfectly in every one of these situations.

Hallelujah, this same Jesus, the Son of God, has placed His Holy Spirit into the heart of every believer and this Spirit is ready, willing and able to guide us in the way we should go. John 14:16,26 As I shared with a dear friend recently, "It's not the jumbled up reactions we have that are the problem. It's the human experience in this fallen world. We need not be surprised that we feel stretched by what happens around us. It's what happens next that's the issue" 1 Peter 4:12

The impurities that appear when the furnace heats up in my life are ugly. I am made of special materials, was chosen by God before the world came to be, and my life is already laid out for me. Psalm 139, Ephesians 1:4, Jeremiah 29:11 God's Word tells me that every high and low temperature is arranged for my benefit. Romans 8:28 They are all part of the annealing process of this crucible walk. The way I/we choose to respond to them is the key.

Do we turn our hearts toward our heavenly Father? Do we look to our older Brother? Do we rely on the Holy Spirit? Do we express our love for God by choosing obedience? John 14:15 Every time we do these things, we show forth God's glory. We are conquerors in His Name and we are refined for His purposes.

Another awesome glimpse of God in my life is revealed. I walk the crucible's path through the furnace of fiery tests and trials. The heat produced by God's loving power and applied through His sovereign providence causes my sin to rise to the surface. Christ speaks to His Father on my behalf and His Holy Spirit steps in at the perfect moment to cool the temperatures to keep me from breaking. He draws me unto Himself in repentance, faith and love. I rest in the purifying nature of the sanctification process of this life. It is the peace and joy of my salvation. I will arrive on heaven's shores without any scorching, singe-free, not even smelling of smoke. Daniel 3:27 Hallelujah!

O, thank You, my God, for creating me and preparing me to be victorious in this life as I glorify Your Name and enjoy You forever. Amen

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

New World Order

2008-11-06T07:34:00.004-05:00

I suppose that most blog updates will deal with the US presidential election for some time to come, whether they originate inside our outside our borders. If that's what you're looking for here, you might want to go elsewhere.

The glimpse the Lord has shown me recently is on a much larger scale. There's an insidious illness creeping across the globe. The commonality of symptoms and coordination of efforts combine to expose the unity of purpose. The threat shouldn't surprise those of us who know Scripture. The book of Revelation talks about the nations of the world being drawn together under one world government.

I trust that all Americans are well aware of the attacks being perpetrated on the family. State after state is moving, some rushing, to recognize homosexual relationships as some sort of sanctioned union. (Congratulations Arizona for holding the line.) Parental authority is questioned by social mores as well as in our institutions and courts. I could go on, but in the interest of space and time will stop there.

These same destructive inroads are present and developing in other countries. The family has been under severe attack in Germany by homosexual activists for some time. The police have begun placing children in mental institutions when parents refuse to subject them to the sexually explicit, lock step public school system. It would be naive to think that these activities are independent "infection" sites or just a general, natural downward spiral. Rather, they are evidence of the infiltrating nature of the life-threatening illness.

"German Federal Minister of Justice Brigitte Zypries campaigned recently in California to urge voters to follow the lead of Germany and the rest of Europe in promoting 'same sex marriage' by defeating Proposition 8." This initiative was a response to the California Supreme Court's decision to strike down a 2000 vote by a majority of Californians to define marriage as being between a man and a woman. (Congratulations California on its passage.) You can read the full article concerning this connection at http://www.c-fam.org/publications/id.862/pub_detail.asp.

I would suggest that the original bacteria is sin - rebellion against God, the Maker, Sustainer, and Sovereign of heaven and earth. Sin caused Lucifer to be cast out of heaven and entered the human race in Eden. Sin is represented and championed by Satan, God's enemy. John 10:10 tells us that his goal is to "steal and kill and destroy". There's a monolithic feel to the world-wide conflagration because it has one source and one purpose.

The attack on marriage and family is obvious. Let's remember a related target. Leviticus 18 and 20 may provide the most graphic depiction. These two chapters are where the worship of false gods is horrifically pictured by parents sacrificing their children to the fires of Molech. Satan's goal is to have all mankind defy God in our hearts and minds and actions. The destruction of marriage and family puts the next generation at serious risk.

Paul describes the process this way in 1 Peter 5:8b, "Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour." He also explains our response to the perpetual attack in surrounding verses. "Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." (6,7) "Be self-controlled and alert." (8a) "Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of suffering." (9)

We need not be overwhelmed or depressed. Christ has already gained the victory. Our rescue has been accomplished. We need not panic or run helter-skelter. The task at hand is the same today as it is every day, "When I shut up the heavens so that there is no rain, or command locusts to devour the land or send a plague among my people. If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:13,14

Whether we feel overcome by the sin in our own hearts or homes, in our church or community, in our country or the nations of the world, God's promises are sure. We must each come to Him with a repentant heart, seeking the cleansing work of the Holy Spirit, and trusting in the saving work of Christ's blood. When we do, 1 John 1:9 assures us that, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins, and purify us from all unrighteousness.

It's time for God's people to pursue the consecration of our lives in the moment by moment experience of it. The process is not a heavy burden but a reviving discipline and joyous adventure. We discover the expected comfort promised to those blessed ones in Matthew 5:4 who mourn their sin. We look forward to the peace and rejoicing of eternity in heaven. God is good!

I pray that this glimpse will cause you, as it has me, to commit yourself more fully to personal holiness while we rest in the sovereign providence of our heavenly Father.

Lug Nuts and Eternity

2008-10-04T13:39:00.003-04:00

I've had a run in with lug nuts lately. It wasn't pretty and I'd rather not repeat it any time soon - or ever for that matter. The glimpse it gave me of eternity is something I'm still pondering.

It was a lovely afternoon when Curt and I headed for the grocery store. We'd been out doing errands and that was the last one on our list. It felt good to be looking at wrapping everything up and then going home to enjoy the evening. The sudden arrival of an ominous "clunk, clunk, clunk" from the front of the Jeep didn't bode well for that happy ending.

We pulled over to the side of the road and did our best to determine the source of the troublesome noise. It was coming from the right front quarter, but we couldn't identify the exact location. When we were both back in the vehicle Curt said, "Well, I guess we're headed to the garage instead of the grocery store." And off we went.

We traveled along at a slow speed, doing our best to keep from making matters worse. As Curt approached a corner and applied the brakes, the sound stopped all together. He said, "Well, that's good news. It's probably got something to do with the brakes." I asked why that was good news. "Because at least we know the wheel won't fall off," he replied.

We made it about another four or five miles before the "BOOM" happened. The Jeep shook as if it had been hit by a bomb. The antenna whipped across and down, slamming into the windshield. I looked over at Curt and his arms were out straight as he hung onto the steering wheel with every ounce of strength. His foot was out straight too applying the brakes with all his might. It felt as if we'd driven right into a wall.

Yes, it was scary inside the cab, but that wasn't all. As the car skidded down the road out of control, two mailboxes were fast approaching on the right. I figured that the worst that would happen there was that we would take them out at ground level. It was the telephone pole that loomed just a little farther down the shoulder that caused my heart to pump. All I could do was hold on.

We came to rest just past the mailboxes and about six feet before the pole. Without a doubt, God had just canceled a possible appointment with Him in eternity. I put my hand on Curt's arm and asked if he was okay. He let me know he was shaken up, but that he wasn't hurt at all. We jumped out to survey the scene.

The right front wheel had sheared off the axle and was laying a hundred feet or so behind us on the road along with some other fragments. Curt went to retrieve them. I looked at the right front quarter panel that resembled an old-fashioned can of sardines that had been opened upward by its little metal key. No wonder the antenna had whipped across the windshield.

We got on our cellphones right away. I called AAA for a tow and Curt called to alert the garage that we were on the way. As we hung up a car pulled over in front of us and a young man flew out of the passenger seat and headed toward us. He wanted to know if we were okay, really all right. When he knew we were fine he told us he was a mechanic and offered to help us if he could. I sensed right away that he was God's ministering angel.

When he looked at the wheel though he realized there wasn't anything he could do. He pointed out that two of the lug nuts had sheered right off. He let us know that something unusual must have happened for that to take place. His mother got out of the driver's seat and came back to check on us as well. She pointed out that we were on a very dangerous stretch of road and encouraged us to put our flashers on. Evidently there had been a number of serious accidents right in that area. I wasn't sure how they'd take it, but I let them know they were sent by God to care for us. We thanked them profusely for their help and waved good-bye as we waited for help.

There are no words to fully explain the despair that enveloped us both as we stood there by our damaged vehicle. My mind simply wouldn't compute. I turned to God for the why? how? what? answers, but nothing came. I could tell that Curt was also struggling with the whole situation. We are not new to disaster and pain, but this seemed to come out of nowhere and was over the top. Confusion reigned.

It was clear that I would get no answers for a while, if ever. I decided right then and there to commit myself and the whole situation to God. I made my statements out loud.

Father, I sure don't get it. Why would such a thing happen? You know how we've been under the gun lately. How could something like this come on top of all of that? It makes no sense to me. What are you trying to show us?

I even shared my thoughts with Curt, "You know, I don't get it, but I KNOW for sure that God has us right here by the side of the road in this mess. He's the one who arranges every detail of our lives and even though this isn't pretty, it's His doing."

Okay, God, I don't understand. I don't like it. I don't want to be here, but I yield to your plan for this day. I know you have good planned for my life and I'll trust that this somehow fits into that good. I give up. I'm Yours. Do as You see fit, Father.

I was reminded of 1 Samuel 3:18 which I had read earlier that week. "He is the Lord; let Him do what is good in His eyes."

It was dismal but the Lord started to show me some of the silver lining of the crash. There was a small store nearby where I could use the bathroom. Curt was able to get a drink when he was thirsty. God sent another couple of people to stop and check on us. It helped to be reminded that He hadn't forgotten us there by the side of the road. It became obvious pretty quickly as cars went whizzing by that we really did need the flashers. God made sure we had the information we needed.

After almost an hour the mechanic's mom came back by. She said she'd told her son that if we were still here she would stop and offer to take us wherever we needed to go. Just then the tow truck pulled up so I said it would be nice if she'd take me to the garage to avoid being crowded into the tow truck cab. She pulled into the driveway of the abandoned house where we were to pick me up. Hah, the tow truck blocked her in so we had to sit and talk. I learned that she was a sister in Christ and her dad was a deacon at the church just down the road. God is good!

While the Jeep was loaded up we exchanged names and rejoiced in the Lord. I told her then and there that as far as I was concerned she was Angel Bonnie. :-) We got back to the garage a little before Curt and the tow truck. I thanked Angel Bonnie heavily and prayed over her as I hugged her good-bye. When I let her go she asked me how we were going to get home. I said I didn't know. She suggested she wait at the curb while I checked with Curt. Still being in a daze, I agreed with more thanks.

The paperwork only took five minutes and we were in Angel Bonnie's car riding home. We continued to revel together in the goodness of the Lord. When we got to the house she didn't want to come in and have a cup of tea. She wouldn't take anything we offered. Angel Bonnie just wanted to care for us and then get home to care for her dad. More evidence of her angellic occupation. So Curt prayed over her and she went on her way.

We went into the house a bit deflated. We had the whole weekend ahead of us with only one vehicle, not such a burden, really. The rub was that we were scheduled to pick up some friends at the airport in Boston on Monday. It just felt like another nail in the coffin of discouragement. I'm sad to report that the joy over the many blessings of the Lord in the midst of such ugly circumstances only managed to keep our noses just above the waves. :-(

We made the trip to Logan Airport in my vehicle and enjoyed a lovely evening with our friends. The next day we asked if they would like to visit our church building. The dad was quite interested so we set off. While he and I were upstairs in the sanctuary Curt received a call from the garage. The owner said he found the problem with the wheel quite intriguing. He asked Curt if he left the Jeep unattended for long periods of time. He let him know that it does sit in the church parking lot for hours several times a week. The garage owner said that was interesting because it was his professional opinion that the sheared bolts were not the result of normal wear and tear nor loosening of the nuts. Rather, two of the lug nuts had been removed. It was an act of sabotage. Or as someone else described it a bit dramatically, attempted murder.

When I went downstairs with our friend Curt related that conversation to us. I couldn't believe my ears. Suddenly there was a witness from God's Word to my soul and it all made sense. John 15:20 says, "No servant is greater than his master. If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also." This incident was not the first time Curt and I have faced such obvious persecution. Years ago a church where we were serving was firebombed because "Lucifer doesn't like what's being preached in there."

I started to jump and dance. If I'd had pompoms I'd have given a cheer. I'm guessing our friend thought I was a bit strange. It was complete confirmation that what we were offering to God in our lives must be on the right track. The enemy doesn't waste his time frustrating those who are already under his control. Oh Hallelujah to the Lord!

Philippians 4:4 came to mind - the call to rejoice in all circumstances. Matthew 5:10 and following reminded me of the blessings that are assured for those who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness and that the response needed to be rejoicing and gladness.

We stopped right there in the hallway and prayed. We praised God for showing His faithfulness, for offering His tender mercies, for revealing His protection in the face of evil. Glory to His Name. It was a fitting conclusion to the mess by the side of the road and celebration of who God is and how He cares for His people. Thank you, Jesus.

Since that day I continue to ponder what God would have me see in those lug nuts. Yes, He took care of us in spite of what was done against us. As Joseph reported, though someone means something for evil, God means it for good. Not only did the revelation lift up my faith higher than I can imagine, but it broke the chains of depression and discouragement that had been making me miserable. God's word is true. Hallelujah to the Risen King!

I'm sure you can imagine that Curt's considering putting locking lug nuts on the wheels of his newly repaired Jeep. It's a sensible course of action. Well, now I'm commited to making sure that nobody can tamper with the lug nuts of my spiritual life either. I sure don't want the wheel to fall off of my life and send me into the ditch of depression again.

It will take a major disruption to keep me from Sunday morning corporate worship. The times I've got set aside to spend with my Savior and Lord personally are less likely to fall by the wayside even on a busy day. I want to turn to the Lord quickly in every circumstance. I lay my will at His feet and sit to abide in His presence. Lord empower me by Your Holy Spirit to live a life fully yielded and pleasing to You. Amen

Curt and I avoided the trip to eternity that day on the road. The Lord has clearly given us more time to be refined for our eternity with Him. Father, please accomplish your plan for our lives.

Here's my question for you:
Are your spiritual lug nuts as secure as they need to be?

Lessons at the Wood Pile

2008-09-01T20:51:00.001-04:00

I pray that you read the title correctly. It is a wood pile, not a wood shed. :-)

Those of us who live in places that enjoy a cold winter season know that wood can be your best friend. When temperatures drop and fuel costs rise, wood loaded into the firebox of a wood stove can make life toasty. The Farmer's Almanac says that we're supposed to have a cold, snowy winter this year. That means that wood will become an even closer friend in the coming months.

We've had three cords of wood delivered and about a half of a cord given to us. Most of it was dumped on a portion of our driveway and the rest in a spot across the street. The next order of business was to get it all properly stacked and covered before the snow flies. That takes a lot of time and physical labor. Today was the day.

Labor Day brought the opportunity with its holiday pace and cool breezes. So Curt and I worked side by side to accomplish the task. Along the way the Lord offered glimpses of His amazing providence. First, it was a wonderful opportunity to practice the working relationship the Lord has been building in us over the last 40 years. Lately I've been noticing how He's refining that gift and it was a joy to behold.

First, it was my responsibility to ask Curt how he wanted to pursue the project. It was an excellent analogy for our marriage. Since he's the head, his plan is the one I need to follow. He showed me the process he wanted to undertake and we began. It felt good to be part of an activity that was moving us forward in accomplishing a goal.

I picked up logs and did my best to figure out how they fit into the growing pile. There were big ones that set firmly and little ones that nestled into alcoves they created. It reminded me of 2 Corinthians 12 where Paul explains how God gives spiritual gifts. They're meant to fit together in his body the same way the various parts of our physical body fit together.

Curt decided it would be helpful if I built the towers that hold up the ends of the piles. He gave me the more squared-off logs to use. My favorite part of that assignment was that he trusted me to do it. Then he told me I did a good job as I finished each one. It was a glorious time of positive interaction. What a treat!

As we moved through the task it became clear to me that Curt was the better stacker. He had a way of choosing logs and fitting them together efficiently that I simply didn't. My forte seemed to be in creating open pathways for doing the job and clearing up the edges behind him. From time to time I would toss logs closer to Curt leaving the scraps at a distance. He made faster progress and I felt useful - a win, win combination.

There were a couple of times when I wasn't sure about what he was doing. It didn't seem to make sense. I chose to be quiet and wait to see how it turned out. I'm happy to say that in each case his idea turned out to be a clever one. Was I really that surprised? :-)

The project took a couple of hours or so. We became an increasingly effetive team as we communicated our feelings, desires, and goals. The wood got stacked, the driveway got cleared, and the winter fuel got stored. We stepped back to admire the finished product and I realized that the neat stacks of wood were only part of it. An afternoon spent expending our energy together and being able to see the results was almost overwhelming. I had the sense that God has orchestrated the day for just such a purpose.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

Lifeguard Chairs and Grapevines

2008-07-02T07:44:00.006-04:00

It's July and we're finally getting something like summer weather up here. The new picture on this page gives a hint of the glorious sunsets we expect to see across our beach in the coming weeks. I guess it's a good time to share one of my analogies. An analogy, according to my Merriam-Webster pocket dictionary, is "a likeness in one or more ways between things otherwise unlike." This analogy compares a lifeguard chair and the vine of John 15.

I'd been going through a stretching time and felt as if I could barely keep my head above water. I'm not sure if the process came in gradual stages or was an abrupt awakening, but one day I found myself resting and peaceful. The Holy Spirit had lifted my eyes above the waves and I was able to focus on the amazing grace and awesome promises of God. I felt a bit like Peter in Matthew 14 as he stepped out of the boat to meet His Lord that stormy night.

I knew that the waves of discord and distraction were still there, but I was able to look beyond them to the steady horizon that spoke of the faithfulness of my Father. His peace and power carried me above the confusion and agony. It wasn't as if the problems and struggles didn't exist. It was just that they didn't matter, had no sway over me, as I pondered the character of God and rested in His presence. I didn't want to ever sink below those waves again.

I figured that I'd be able to avoid following the rest of Peter's example where fear caused him to start to sink among the waves. I decided that I simply wouldn't let the wind scare me. My strategy to keep my heavenward focus was to climb up into a virtual lifeguard chair. That was the feeling I had and I thought it was pretty clever. After all, I'd be able to sit back and relax in a place that would automatically elevate my eyes above the waves. I could come right up out of the hot sand that wants to burn my feet, away from the difficulties of every day life. Now that would be grand!

I held onto that image for a while. I would concentrate on looking up to God whenever I caught sight of the waves or felt my feet beginning to feel warm. When I sensed the beginning of that internal pressure that leads to panic I would remind myself of how secure and peaceful I felt sitting in my lifeguard chair. The Holy Spirit took me back to the basic truths of the faith: God is love, 1 John 4:16; He chose me to be His own, Ephesians 1:11; He is all-powerful, Job 26:22; the struggle is spiritual not physical, Ephesians 6:12; and others. I would climb back up and rest in the lifeguard chair. Oh, it felt so good.

Then more time passed and life moved forward. As is wont to happen, the various forces of the fallen world, my weaknesses, the annoyer, and his minions played havoc all around me. The wind blew to ignite the embers of fear and I forgot my secure perch. After another round of treading water and gasping for breath, God reached out with His love-filled hand to tip my chin toward His face. He drew me to Himself by the power of His Holy Spirit and spoke softly.

Yes, Sandra, the lifeguard chair is one of my gifts to you. You need to be there not only for yourself but to minister my life-saving truths to others in deep water. Philippians 1:23,24 The problem is that you can't get there simply by calling up an image or conjuring up a feeling - not even with remembered Scripture. You need to seek me with your whole heart. You need to yield everything to me; every wish, every plan, every imagination, every affection . . . every thing. When you do I will be found by you, and I will bring you back from captivity. Jeremiah 29:13

I am still imperfect and I still live in a fallen world where God's and my enemy prowls as a roaring lion. I don't expect the waves or the wind to become smooth or painless. I don't expect to understand nor enjoy every detail of the refining process as it unfolds. What I do expect is for my Omnipotent Sovereign to expand this heavenly glimpse into my life according to His perfect providence. I expect my Loving Father to keep His promise from Romans 8:30 to prepare me fully for eternity with Him. I foresee relaxing more often in His lifeguard chair as I remain more fully in the True Vine.

May God grant each of you the glimpse you need to have in your own walk with Him.

Jigsaw Puzzles and God's Providence

2008-06-03T21:45:00.002-04:00

Hurrah, it’s June and the temperatures are finally beginning to rise. We’re still experiencing the wind that blows in the spring until the earth and air both warm up to summertime levels. Who cares? At least the snow is gone.

I’m in the midst of a busy phase. God has arranged a travel schedule that reminds me of the old days and there are a number of special events as well, such as Caroline’s ballet recital. (She was the best ballerina in the whole show.) J With so much going on, God’s lessons concerning His Providence have been coming in handy. Every time I stop to consider the way the Lord has blessed me through His sovereignty, I receive an image of a jigsaw puzzle.

I’m an avid puzzler though I don’t always have time to enjoy this hobby. There’s something that draws me to the activity of matching the “innies” and “outies” of each piece according to color, shape and size. Whenever I make a fit I do a minor victory dance in my head. As I see the overall picture developing fresh bursts of enthusiasm flow through me to fill in another area. In the end I tend to leave my finished puzzles on the table for a few days as I marvel at the finished task. It’s a joyful form of recreation for me.

In a way, I think we could consider God to be the Master Puzzler. His hand is in the process of putting together the pieces of His Masterwork. He knows the picture that’s on the box, so to speak, and is coordinating every detail to assure its completion. Romans 8:28-30 He developed His plan for the process before there was time or space and gave a hint of it to Adam and Eve. Genesis 3:15 He went about fitting the pieces together throughout the Old Testament and across the 400 years of intertestamental silence. He revealed more of His plan through the coming of His Son in the New Testament. 2 Timothy 1:8-10 There is no doubt that God will see the process through to the end. Philippians 1:6

Thinking of God’s providence in this way gives peace and comfort. There’s no need to worry about what’s going to happen next. God has a detailed plan and He is fitting the pieces of it together. Each shape will connect perfectly with the ones around it to form the proper image. The position of each piece benefits those adjacent to it and enhances the process and outcome at the same time. Jeremiah 29:11 We can rest in our relationship with God through Christ, knowing that His sovereignty operates in concert with His great love for us. John 15

What glory and honor, wonder and praise to be part of our Father’s heavenly Masterpiece. Amen

Not Enough Hours in the Day

2008-05-05T07:26:00.002-04:00

I got back from two busy weeks in Hungary and Bosnia. I had just over two weeks to complete the follow-up to that trip as well as the preparations for ten days in Norway. I wasn't sure how I could get it all done. I started that old refrain, "There just aren't enough hours in the day." I caught myself repeating those words before my heavenly Father and felt the Holy Spirit's tempering presence. What was I really saying?

Are the 24 hours God built into creation and therefore my existence insufficient?
No, Father, I know better than that. Nothing you give is insufficient.

Isaiah 58:11 says, "The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame."

Philippians 4:19 tells me "And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." If I needed more than 24 hours, Father God would give them to me.

Since 24 hours is what God gives each day, I must conclude that they are sufficient. I'm drawn on in my quest for understanding.

I notice that my days are pretty hectic a lot of the time. They don't seem to reflect the kinds of days that Jesus lived nor the kind that I read about throughout Scripture as a holy life. God gave His Son roughly 33 years on this earth and only about three of them were spent in direct ministry. I don't get the sense that Jesus was falling asleep each night worrying about what He didn't get done that day and trying to figure out how to fit more into the next one. Yet Jesus' final words report that He'd accomplished everything His Father sent Him to do. "It is finished." John 19:30 So what's wrong with my picture?

How do I get into this frenetic pace?
Father, since the 24 hours You give me each day are sufficient for what you've sent me to do, I must be confused about what you expect.

Now I have to tell you that's a shocking consideration. I spend a fair amount of time and energy figuring out what to put on my To Do List that will be pleasing to my Father. I have no doubt that the things I undertake are worthy of my attention in that light. I mean, after all, I've honed this skill over almost 40 years of being in His Son. :-)

Micah 6:8 instructs, "He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."

Ephesians 2:10 informs, "For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

John 15:1-8 explains the vine and the branches connection we are to have with God through Christ. The fruit of "good works" is the natural outgrowth of "remaining" in Him.

There are lots and lots and lots of meaningful and wonderful activities to undertake and services to perform in our Savior's Name. All of my days could be filled from morning to night and beyond with good-looking and productive ministry. If it's not the amount of time, maybe what I need to do is look at whether or not they are what my Father has given me to do.

Not by accident, the Holy Spirit arranged for me to be led to Luke 10:38-42 this week. It's not the first time He's highlighted this passage for me and I sense it will not be the last. I recognized that I was being challenged in my Martha life, "worried and upset about many things." I appreciated the reminder that Mary, who "sat at the Lord's feet listening to what He said" was the one who had "chosen what is better." BUT His Sweet Spirit revealed to me, in the midst of this very personal quest, that Mary's choice, sitting at the feet of her Savior and listening to what her Master said is the "only one thing that is needed."

The only one thing I need to do as far as my Father is concerned is to sit at the feet of His Son, the One who secured the access I have to Him, and listen to what He says. Sit and Listen, that's it. I have to confess that it's overwhelming for a dyed-in-the-wool Martha to take in that profound Truth. ONLY ONE THING IS NEEDED, TO SIT AND LISTEN TO JESUS.

I want to let you know that the process of this awareness has been slowly creeping over me. The last few months God has been blessing me in the times of daily reading and meditating and praying He's been giving me. It has called for the self-discipline He's granted me through His Spirit as explained in 2 Timothy 1:7, but it's really been the result of His grace. This latest glimpse is life-changing, but in many ways is a piece of the growth I praise Him for nurturing in me. By His grace I am becoming aware of the truth of Acts 17:28, "For in him [God] we live and move and have our being."

Of course, I know there's a long way for this old Martha to go before she feels comfortable in a Mary-type role. There have been a lot of years spent in that list-making mode. Actually, I trust my Father to use the gifts He's given me in those areas for His purposes as He moves me along His rehabilitation program. We do need to "act justly" and be about those "good works" He's got for me to do. He's already made some pretty amazing progress and I give testimony to it as the evidence of the Creator's infinite love for this undeserving creature. More and more I come to understand that each minute, each hour, each day is under His sovereign hand and as we sit and listen we will be able to see His completed providence in each of those frames.

Today I am praising our God for the intellectual, spiritual, personal, and experiential Truth of 2 Corinthians 12:9 "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."

Oh Father, please allow me to continue on with Paul, "Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong."

May God show His all-sufficient grace to you in the busy-ness of your life. Amen

As Vital as Oxygen

2008-03-31T10:40:00.001-04:00

Curt and I just got back from a trip that called for a short domestic plane ride. The flight attendant went through the directions before take-off. I’ve heard them dozens of times, but the following portion started me thinking.

"When the oxygen masks come down, put your own mask on before attempting to assist those around you."

It dawned on me that the same dynamic exists in our spiritual lives. We need to make sure that we have a secure flow of “oxygen” ourselves before attempting to assist those around us with their “oxygen” supply.

We all have other people in our lives that we want to nurture in the faith. Parents want to make sure their children know God and respond to Him with love and obedience. Friends want to encourage those they care about to answer the Savior’s call and live for Him with integrity. Sharing the gospel and stirring each other up in accordance with Ephesians 2:10 is a driving force for the Christian. However, to do so effectively we must first make sure our own faith is firmly in place.

It’s not possible to offer the Truth of God’s Word to anyone else, if we are not submitting ourselves to its healing, growing message on a regular basis. We cannot suggest that someone else get to know the Lord Jesus with heartfelt enthusiasm, if our own relationship with Him is not thriving. It’s counter-productive to try to direct Christian behavior in or model it for our children, if we are not before the Lord ourselves for guidance in right living and self-discipline. We cannot exhort a fellow believer properly, if we are not confronting sin in our own lives.

You know, this parable could get to be annoying. After all, I leave tomorrow on an international trip. In the next two weeks I’ll probably hear these same directions several times as I make connecting flights between cities. Usually I don’t pay too much attention to the flight attendants because I’ve heard them so many times. This little scenario has caught me though and I suspect I’ll be more attuned to the information they’re trying to impart to me. I’ll keep my head up.

Father, I know that before I can open the riches of your Love for someone else to see and enjoy, I need to experience it myself. Please make sure my “oxygen mask” is securely in place. Teach me to breathe in Truth through your Word. Give me a hunger and thirst for righteousness that I cannot ignore. Enable me by the power of your Holy Spirit to grow in your Grace that your Name would be glorified. Allow me to revel in this intimate relationship with you for all eternity. Amen

Tending the Fire

2008-03-06T10:26:00.002-05:00

It was a cold morning, not unusual for February in Maine. When I went downstairs it was 50° and I knew I needed to pump up the fire. I opened the door of the wood stove and saw only ashes. Well, that made sense since we’d gone to bed more than eight hours before. I wanted to coax the flames to life so I could enjoy their comfortable warmth.

I was hoping there were sufficient embers to promote the process, but I wasn’t sure. I crumpled up three or four pieces of newspaper and set them in the fire box. Then I laid a few smaller pieces of wood on top of them. It didn’t take too long for some wispy tendrils of smoke to begin to make their way out of my carefully laid “fire bait”. I watched and waited for several more minutes, but the newspapers didn’t seem to want to flare up.

Out of frustration I finally took a lit match and touched it to the edges of the paper I was using as a starter. Sure enough the newspaper caught and I sat on the floor smiling into the hint of light in the black interior of the wood stove. There wasn’t a lot of heat being thrown my way, but the dancing reds and oranges and yellows cheered my heart. I was pleased with the progress I was making.

It didn’t take long for the quick flare up to die down and eventually become a barely smoldering mess. There was even a lump of unburned newspaper stubbornly sitting in the ashes staring at me. The tiny, shimmering sparks on its blackened surface seemed to mock my efforts. I could feel the determination to see this job to a roaring end rise up in my heart.

I couldn’t let frustration lead me to defeat. No way was I going to wake Curt up to ask for help. I reminded myself that I was a mature woman with lots of experience with camp fires. Besides, I couldn’t allow myself to be overcome by such a simple chore. I knew that I just needed to bear down and put my whole self into it. I got down to business.

I moved away the rubble of my first attempt and hunted for the glowing embers that had made themselves known earlier. I used a poker to gather together these reminders of the previous night’s fire. I carefully laid some fresh balls of newspaper around them to increase the possibility of ignition – not too tight and not too loose. Next I erected a teepee shape of kindling, slightly sturdier than the paper, over them.

This time as the newspaper began to show signs of life I added the encouragement of a match. The result was a concentration of flames that licked upward into the next level of fuel. My heart began to believe that I was going to be able to get this thing going after all. I decided I was a pretty good, old Girl Scout. I figured it wouldn’t be long before I’d be warming myself before my very own glowing stove.

When the kindling was ablaze I tenderly placed a couple of pieces of the next size wood into the wood box. I was careful not to smother the flames as I worked. I did my best to arrange the logs so that their “most likely to ignite” side was available to the heat. I didn’t want to go too quickly, but I knew if I waited too long before adding more fuel that wouldn’t be good either. I was sure that all the information I’d stored up about fires would do the trick.

However, all of my best efforts and attention proved insufficient. Even with such a hopeful beginning the fire began to burn lower and lower. I finally gave in to the need for further assistance. I considered using the bellows as a last resort. You see, it ought to be enough to leave the door of the wood stove open to allow oxygen to pass over the fire, out the flue, and up the chimney. A reasonably capable person ought to be able to accomplish this task without the use of an outside accelerant. Reaching for the bellows felt like surrender.

I took stock of the scene in front of me and chose a spot that was already alive and intensely red. I placed the nozzle where the fire-feeding oxygen would prompt the embers to flourish. There was some loose bark just above a particularly promising hot spot. I wanted to apply my efforts where they had a high potential for success. I started squeezing the handles of the bellows together.

I knew that if I worked in a frenzy a quick flame would probably appear. However, I had already experienced the results of that strategy. I set about a steady pace of compressions. I noticed that besides offering a steady flow of oxygen, the regular tempo also made it easier to support the weight of the tool. It started to feel a bit as if I were blowing my own breath directly into the fire. I relaxed into the task at hand.

I noticed that resting on my knees and concentrating solely on the goal set before me was a peaceful feeling. The persistent rhythm of my hands on the bellows provided a routine into which it was easy to settle. Though I was actually in the middle of a project, I didn’t feel particularly stressed or anxious. As a matter of fact, my efforts in and of themselves were already warming my body against the cold around me.

It took sensible and consistently-applied effort, but the fire did spring to life. Flames flowed up from the base and engulfed ever-increasing size logs. As I fed the fire I grew entranced by its leaping and the combinations of color it displayed. Something that started out as a frustrating duty became a joyful occupation. After an hour of careful and constant tending I was able to tell Curt with integrity that the fire was indeed going for the day.

I need to confess though that once the fire was fully established, it was an effort to pull myself away to the responsibilities of the day. I finally headed upstairs to my computer, moving into the coldest room of the house. It would have been far easier to remain in front of the blaze, but there was work to do. I knew I needed to continue to feed the fire to keep the cold at bay. I was determined not to let such a wonderful source of comfort die and to bask in its warmth each time I go to tend it.

I’ve decided that this fire-starting business is as much art as science and requires as much faith as knowledge. I’m thankful for these times of looking more deeply into the events of every day life with the hand of the Holy Spirit on my shoulder.

Hm, did God show me the Downeast version of the parable of the seeds? Luke 8:1-15

Or was He giving me a picture of His work in the Church? Psalm 127

Or was He speaking to me about tending the flame in my own spiritual life? Matthew 6:33

Whatever the answer, God has given me a glimpse and the blessed opportunity to ponder it before Him.

Emmanuel

A Sure Foundation

2008-02-05T14:22:00.000-05:00

Another week is here and the time to post has arrived. As I was pondering what to share with you I was reminded of another glimpse the Lord gave me. I caught it when I was skiing downhill at about 25 mph.

The day was beautiful - sunny skies, moderate temperatures, minimal crowds, and great grooming. No, I'm not talking about anyone's personal hygiene habits. I mean the snow. When you're talking about winter resorts, grooming means the care that's put into providing the best possible surface on which to ski. Grooming includes making snow, moving snow, etc. It takes a lot of time, energy and effort. As a matter of fact, dedicated staff will spend the whole night preparing trails and runs.

Well, this day the grooming was great. I was especially pleased because the week before it had been quite icy. I had called it quits after an hour and a half and waited inside for Curt. Whenever I'm on trails with patches of ice I get really cautious. I call it skiing in survival mode and I don't really enjoy it much at all. I'm pleased to report that the opposite was true this week.

I was tentative at first, trying to figure out how well my skis would respond. After the first two runs I knew that the surface would support me. I started skiing with confidence and enjoying afresh the Lord's creation. It was on one such glorious trip down the mountain that I explained what was happening to Curt. "I just realized that the condition of the snow makes a huge difference in the way I ski. Last week the surface kept shifting under me and I had to give up because I was overwhelmed by the fear of falling. This week the surface is secure and I'm discovering that I can carry much more speed and handle it without any trouble at all." He gave me the I-get-it smile.

We headed down the next stretch of trail and my thoughts turned toward God. It's like that in life, too. I need to be able to trust my foundation. If it's shifting and insecure, I become anxious and hesitant. I do not want to venture forth and do so at my own peril. When my foundation is solid and secure, I am confident and capable. I am able to step into new responsibilities, and learn and grow from them. What makes for a firm foundation?

Nothing is more stable and secure than God Himself. 2 Timothy 2:19a says, "God's solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: 'The Lord knows those who are his.' " Ephesians 2:20b tells us that Christ Jesus Himself is the "chief cornerstone" of that firm foundation. Hebrews 13:8 confirms that, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." With this sure, stable, solid, secure foundation there's no place for fear and anxiety. Victory and freedom are built on it. Another day of skiing on the outside, another day of rejoicing on the inside. Psalm 2 fills my soul. My life is abundant with faith and trust in Him.

Emmanuel

Through a Glass Darkly

2008-01-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

It's early morning, but I can tell already that this day will be a strange one for January in Maine. The temperature has risen to almost 40 degrees. The air is so calm that the bough outside my window is absolutely still. There's a delicate beauty in the droplets gently suspended from the pine needles, reminders of last night's rain. A heavy mist allows only the slightest peek at the beach before enveloping the rest of the lake and opposite shore. I feel snuggled into a world of secure serenity.

My life looks a lot like the view outside. The activity level generates a lot of warmth, shall we say, as I shuffle from one responsibility to another. There's a certain sense of calm in the daily routine I've developed - from one thing to the next and the next. God does intervene with reminders of His loving grace that bring beauty and sustain me as I go. He grants me glimpses of what's ahead as He shrouds the rest with His glory. I am secure in the sovereignty of my loving Father.

Before you get the wrong impression, my life isn't all warm and fuzzy. There are real deadlines to meet and regular people to love. There's dust and dirt to clean along with pain and grief to bear. There's limited time and energy to spend as well as faulty impressions and understandings to sort. While daily life goes on, I am struggling with some of the deepest, most basic issues one could ever imagine. In the midst of the turmoil God is enfolding me in His arms of compassion and truth. The result is the peace described in John 14:27.

Words fall far too short of being able to articulate the current battle being waged around me. The annoyer clearly wants my blood. The war cries and clashing swords are severe enough to deafen. This week some old, unredeemed tapes began to play themselves in my head. I felt the onslaught and reeled under its impact. My breath was taken from me as I looked right into the eyes of my oppressor. I began to slump to the ground and called to my Savior for rescue. Within minutes, through the passage in my daily Scripture reading, God sent the shining light of His truth into the fray. Who would have thought that a few verses in Numbers, that "boring" Old Testament book, would speak volumes into a 2008 life? Who would believe that a hard-fought habit to seek God daily through His Word would render peace that passes understanding? Who would believe that the Creator of the universe would reach out and touch little old me? The Victor came in and set my feet back upon the rock near Him. Exodus 33:21 Hallelujah!

I wish there were a way to describe the procedure by which to obtain such great comfort from our loving God. I guess if I could explain it in 10 easy steps, I'd be a millionaire with more than a cottage garret work space. The truth is that Scripture, from beginning to end, outlines the way to peace with God. It's not merely a New Testament conversion experience, though being born again is an introductory step. Rather, it's a relationship-building process undergirded and empowered by the fullness of His written revelation. From first word to last, the Bible shows us who God is and opens the way to get to know Him as Father, Sovereign, and Lord.

This week I learned that the more time I spend reading, pondering, and responding the closer God and I become. The troubles of this life are swallowed up in His intimate presence. It is a glimpse I won't soon forget. I'm inspired to see what's ahead in His unfolding glory. The mist covering the lake brings 1 Corinthians 13:12 to mind. "Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known." Oh how I yearn for that great day when I shall see my Father's face and be completely immersed in who He is. Amen

Heaven, a Taste of

2008-01-19T19:36:00.000-05:00

I didn't post last week because our family was away for our annual retreat. Three generations gather to spend five days skiing and enjoying each other's company. Our main purpose is to praise and thank God for making us a family. The Lord was particularly close and loving this year. I'm not sure I can explain the power that was around me, but let me try.

It was Wednesday when Curt and I went to the top. We had two days of skiing under our belts to warm us up and whet our appetites. We got off the lift and headed toward the southwest. We paused to take in the view. the morning sun was glowing behind a light cloud cover creating an ethereal feeling. The sunrise rose color was diffused across the whole horizon. Even the layers of mist rising from the rows of valleys had a pink sheen. It was spectacular.

We drank in all we could and headed down the frozen mountain face. I quickly fell into my skiing rhythm. It's something the Lord built into me many years ago and it never ceases to amaze me when it returns. Left, right, up, down, balance, turn, accelerate. The wind flew by and suddenly there was only me and God.

I began praising Him for giving me the run. I thanked Him for the excellent snow surface and the sun that made the contours visible. I thanked Him for the ability to point my skis downhill and stay upright. Oooh, it felt so good. Then I noticed that I didn't have any pain anywhere. My body was flowing over the snow more like I was 20 than 60. I thanked God for His amazing grace.

All of this and much more praise flowed from my heart as I cut my path down the trail. I realized that nothing I had done or ever could do would qualify me for this kind of gift from the God of all creation. The exhilaration was almost overwhelming. Then it dawned on me that the blessing was much more than physical. The usual cares and concerns of my life hadn't been plaguing me. It was as if they ceased to exist.

Tears started to flow behind my goggles - from the joy not the cold. The love that God was pouring down on me was more than I could process. I knew it was real and specifically for me. When God gives a gift, He gives it full-blown and complete. Hallelujah, I thought, I'm in heaven.

There is no pain in heaven, no troubles or trials, no suffering or difficulties of any kind. It must feel just like this, communing with God with no distractions. The last section of the run was just as smooth as the first, continuing the conviction that I was enjoying the inner courts of my Father's house. At the bottom, I paused to get into the lift line and my right knee began to grumble at me." Hm, maybe it was just a taste after all. :-)

*Read the earlier postings about the Parable of the Knee to grasp this observation.

Follow the Leader

2008-01-03T12:40:00.000-05:00

It was snowing outside and I was cozy by the wood stove doing a jigsaw puzzle. Curt decided it would be a good idea to try out our snowshoes on the lake. "After all," he said. "We haven't had the right conditions to use them for two years." Hmmmm.

Curt got the equipment out of the basement and made sure it was in order. He brought down his ski jacket and found hiking boots that would work for both of us. The man was serious! Then he seemed to get settled back into watching the football game on TV so I carried on with my puzzle.

A little bit later I finished and pushed the table back. I was ready to go now, but Curt felt it was too late in the afternoon. The sun was going down and the snow was falling fast. I felt bad that I had been so absorbed in what I was doing. I apologized and Curt was gracious. I didn't want his hopes for the afternoon to be spoiled so I suggested that it might be wise to only go out for a short trip anyway since it was our first snowshoe experience. Thankfully Curt agreed.

We threw on our gear and headed out the front door. The snow was indeed falling fast. It was close to white out conditions. We tromped down the edge of the road and through the open lot next door. It was a bit of an effort to get out on the lake, but it wasn't hard to adjust to walking in snowshoes. It was actually pretty easy and comfortable going. It wasn't long before I was thanking the Lord for planning the day for me. I had to admit that if it weren't for Curt I wouldn't be out enjoying God's creation.

When we got further onto the lake it was like entering Narnia. The shoreline melted away in the falling flakes and the silence surrounded us. It was as if time had stopped and all the pressures and problems of the world with it. The release and euphoria were palpable. Believe it or not, we turned into young children playing in the snow for the first time. We laughed and joked as we made our way out to the middle of the lake. It was so strange to be standing where we float in summer. The scene was absolutely amazing. It felt totally otherworldly and we kept our eyes open for Mr. Tumnus. :-)

I went along thinking about the feeling of the cushiony snow beneath my feet. I considered striking out for destinations unknown, maybe to another continent. I experimented with different strides and styles. Who knows, maybe I could perfect a revolutionary snowshoe technique. I reveled in the blanket of frozen precipitation that collected on my collar, wondering how deep it might get. I was enveloped in my own personal space, shielded from anything that might disturb my peace and thanking God for the sweet taste of life He was granting me.

After a bit Curt suggested we head for the home of a friend on the other side of the lake. I thought that was a great idea so we headed off. As I made my way along I noticed that he was veering off to my right. I checked my bearings and thought I was looking at the house he'd mentioned straight ahead. Our paths were diverging so I called out. Curt said he was just going along and, after checking the shoreline, redirected his steps toward the goal he'd set. It was good to feel useful. We trudged along side-by-side enjoying each other's company and resting in the solitude of the Lord.

Before we got too far into the cove, Curt suggested we head off to our left and circle back toward our side of the lake. He was concerned that we not overdo it on our first effort. I was comforted by his consideration as we made our way to the point at Turtle Cove. There were some snow mobile tracks along that stretch that disrupted the smooth surface. They caused our feet to track at funny angles, but they didn't slow our progress too much. Even the intervention of other people couldn't blot out the beauty the Lord was showing us.

We stopped for a brief rest and calm view of the far side of the lake. There was just enough light to create a mixture of shapes and shadows amidst the curtain of snow. For a minute I thought that if we'd stood still we might become statues like those given new life by Aslan. But Curt saved the day by starting off to blaze the trail that would take us back home.

We continued on in companionable quiet as I began to notice some tiredness creeping in on me. My knee didn't ache, but I remembered that I shouldn't over do it. The amazement at our surroundings was still a blessing, but making my way in it was becoming more of an effort. I was glad we were heading for the warmth of our hearth.

I thought about a variety of things I'd tried as we made our way around the lake. It was fun to cut my own swath full of the excitement of the trek and revel in the unobstructed view. It was invigorating to walk along beside Curt feeling that we were in this adventure together and sharing the various aspects of the journey. The togetherness made the whole experience deeper and richer for me. Now that my energy was flagging though I fell in behind Curt, relieved that he was there to lead the way.

I told myself that it made sense for Curt to be in the front anyway since he was the stronger one. God built his body taller and gave him longer legs that let him make better headway. Not only that, but Curt is more able to withstand the unpleasant parts of outdoor experiences. The wind and wet don't seem to affect him as much. He somehow managed to stay warm even though he was wearing a straw cowboy hat. I was really thankful that God had made Curt just the way he is.

I came to enjoy following along behind him more and more. When I was behind Curt the wind wasn't so forceful against my body. The snow didn't hit me directly in the face. Curt's footprints gave me a clear path to pursue. As a matter of fact, I noticed that it was easier to walk in the compacted snow than it was to step into and out of the freshly fallen stuff. I realized that I had a pretty good situation. I lifted my head and called out with abandon, "It sure is fun following you." Curt stopped short and turned around with one of those knowing looks on his face.

Gulp, what did I just say? :-0

The truth of my words flowed over me. I could have cried at the significance of my casual but penetrating remark. I chose to laugh instead. "Oh, Honey, I can't believe I said that, but it's really true. I wish I remembered it more often. Please repeat those exact words to me whenever I need to be reminded."

And I pray he does.

Back in Harness

2008-01-03T11:30:00.000-05:00

Okay, so it's been over a month. It was a busy time, but I won't blame Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's. It wasn't that the Lord didn't make His presence known. It was just that I didn't carve out the time to put together a new post. Well, here I am now and the Lord has tied me to this chair until I share this amazing view, literally from our deck.

We've gotten a lot of snow recently up here in Maine. The lake is covered with it and the snow-laden trees provide a perfect frame for the picture. I've stepped into my boots more than once to take a photo in the hopes of preserving the sense of awe at the display of God's majesty. Since what we see in this fallen world is only a reflection of His being, can you imagine the glory of the Lord?

Pause and truly reflect.

I want to see God in my life. I yearn for evidence of His glorious presence and redeeming work. In Exodus 33 a fellow servant of our King expressed a similar desire. Moses asked God to show him His glory. God responds in verse 20 and says, "No one may see me and live."

It is then recorded that God set Moses in a cleft in the rock and covered him with His hand for the passing of His glory. God granted Moses' request and protected him from the full, fatal view. This worthy follower was able/allowed to see God's back, but not His face.

I am thankful, Father, that you show appropriate amounts of your glory to me too. As I get back in harness according to the precepts of Ephesians 2:10, I ask You to prompt me to open my eyes more fully to Your glorious presence. Amen

Emmanuel

For Ladies Only Glimpse

2007-11-19T13:45:00.000-05:00

Now look, I don't know how many of you got smirks on your face wondering about my title. By the time you get done reading this post I'll bet they will turn into full-fledged, knowing smiles and/or giggles. How can I be confident to make such a claim? Well, that's what's happened every time I've shared it with ladies around here, i.e. Bible Study, Moms Retreat. Read on and enjoy.

I was struggling one day with an appointment that I figured was going to be pretty difficult. I wanted to be sure that I approached it in ways that would glorify my Father. Lately I've been seeking the Lord to build His Word into me in such a way that it will be the first thing I consider in any situation. He's been very gracious in answering that request even for a mature adult such as myself. [You can read that, "an old bird like me," if you like.] So in preparation I was led to the passage that begins at Colossians 3:12.

I was sharing the excellent advice offered in these verses with a friend. She encouraged me to consider reading through the passage even as I got dressed the morning of my appointment. She suggested that I actually put on the attributes mentioned as I was putting on my clothes. The idea was intriguing to me. It reminded me of the Ephesians 6 passage that directs God's people to stand firm and put on the armor of God. So the next morning I opened my Bible to Colossians 3 and laid it out on the bed along with all my clothes.

12a Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, . . .
I stopped to soak in those basic truths. Before the directions to get dressed, God begins by telling me who I am. He chose me to be His own, not because of the way I look or for anything I've done, not even because I love and trust Him as I seek to follow His precepts. He chose me before the foundation of the world because HE loves ME. As a matter of fact, I only love Him because He first loved me. 1 John 4:19 Not only am I chosen, but God calls me holy and reminds me that I am dearly loved. These truths are based on who He is and what He has done. Hallelujah, it has nothing to do with me. I've been chosen and made holy by Jesus Christ who is the same yesterday, and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8 I am this chosen, holy, dearly-loved person that is being addressed and directed in a special way. I need to pay attention.

12b clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Okay, God is telling me to put on compassion. Once again I'm reminded of the belt, breastplate, helmet, etc. from Ephesians. The verse does say to clothe myself so which of these articles of clothing would best represent compassion? To put on compassion means to choose to take in the other person's position, to think about what they might be thinking or how they might be feeling. It would mean that I would need to really consider the inner, private part of the other person's life. My most private parts are covered up by my underpants so I'm going to put them on as a symbol of the compassion I'm asking the Lord to give me. I prayed as I slipped on my underpants that the Lord would help me see and understand the other person's position from His viewpoint. Oh yes, Lord I'm beginning to see the wisdom of this process.

Next God tells me to put on kindness. What article of clothing would illustrate kindness? To put on kindness means to choose to have a positive, outgoing attitude of service. It would mean that I would need to be uplifting and perky, not down in the mouth and negative. The article of clothing that I find most uplifting is my bra so I'm going to put that on as a symbol of the kindness I'm asking the Lord to give me. I giggled a little and then prayed as I put on my bra that God would fill me with the kindness He offers me when I sit in His presence. Thank you, Father, for the leading of your Holy Spirit that includes a good dose of humor.

Clothe myself with humility is the next direction. What article of clothing could that possibly be? To put on humility means to choose to set aside all of my own accomplishments as well as any self-elevating thoughts that might cause me to think more highly of myself than I ought. It would mean that I would need to be meek and lowly, with no sense of pride. The Lord has been doing a serious work in me on humility and I praise Him for all His progress. Humility is a hard thing to put on when you've lived a lot of years and learned a lot of things, but it's also hard to take off once the Lord has shown you yourself. The article of clothing that I find the hardest to put on and not so easy to take off is my panty hose so I'm going to put them on as a symbol of the humility I'm asking God to give me. I prayed as I struggled to pull on my panty hose that the Lord would apply as much effort as was needed to keep my humility in place and not let it bag or sag or even run. Thank you, Father, for the practical way you direct my prayer life.

The Lord says I should clothe myself with gentleness next. What article of clothing could that possibly be? To put on gentleness means to choose to be mild, moderate, non-confrontational as I go through my days. It would mean that I would need to be responsive to and flow with the needs of the people around me. The article of clothing that I find most gentle and flowy is my slip so I'm going to put that on as a symbol of the gentleness I'm asking God to give me. I prayed as I adjusted my slip that God would allow me to apply the gentleness He uses when He calls me to account in a sensitive area. Thank you, Lord, for showing me how you bless me out of your infinite storehouses.

Patience is another piece the Lord wants me to put on. What article of clothing could that possibly be? To put on patience means to choose to persevere in the face of opposition, for the long haul. It would mean that I would need to be committed to walk the path the Lord lays out for me, no matter what, until He says I'm done. The article of clothing that I find stays with me on long, hard paths is my shoes so I'm going to put them on as a symbol of the patience I'm asking God to give me. I prayed as I stepped into my pumps that God would fill me with the patience He has been showing me in this new phase of growth. Thank you, God, for continuing to keep me close to your heart.

13 Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
The Lord wants me to put on forgiveness. What article of clothing could that possibly be? To put on forgiveness means to choose to release another person from the debt they owe for sinning against me. It would mean that I would need to give up any "right" to compensation or opportunity for retaliation. This is a big one. True forgiveness cuts or softens the affects of sin and shortcomings, the ugly parts of my life. The article of clothing that I find softens my shortcomings and ugly parts is my dress so I'm going to put it on as a symbol of the forgiveness I'm asking God to give me. I prayed as I pulled my dress over my head and smoothed it into place that the Lord would remind me of His great forgiveness to me and empower me to heed His call to grant the same forgiveness to others. Thank you, Lord, for the way you smooth out my bumps and bulges by your grace.

14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
The final item the Lord encourages His chosen, holy and dearly-loved people to cloth themselves with is love. What article of clothing could that possibly be? To put on love means to choose to view other people the way God sees them and brings all of the attributes together in unity. It would mean that I would need to emphasize love as the overarching tone of my life. The article of clothing that I find joins everything together is the sweater that coordinates my outfit so I'm going to put it on as a symbol of the love I'm asking God to give me. I prayed as I put on my sweater that the Lord would warm me with His love that I might share it with others and thereby warm their souls. Thank you, God, for the love you lavish on me.

It might have sounded far-fetched at the outset, but God has taught me some rich lessons through this passage. He went with me to my appointment and granted all my requests by His grace. Not only that, but I can now list all of the attributes in this passage in order just by going through the articles of clothing. :-) I continue to look to Him to keep me dressed appropriately, as befits a chosen, holy and dearly-loved daughter. He is faithful!

So don't believe the folks who say that old dogs can't learn new tricks. God is The Trainer, Redeemer, Reconciler, Renewer, Rebuilder. He takes broken lives and worn out old believers like me and breathes new life into them. He teaches us more about Himself and how to remain in His presence, day after day, in spite of any distractions the world or the annoyer can throw at us. Hallelujah, praise God for who He is. Glorify His Name and enjoy Him now and forever! Amen

Sandra Glimpse

2007-11-13T12:54:00.000-05:00

You know, I'm becoming more and more convinced that God can and does speak to us just about everywhere and/or in the midst of anything. It might be hard to imagine that our heavenly Father gave me a glimpse of Himself through the Subject line of my email program, but it's true.

For a long time I've used SANDRA in all caps as the Subject line of my email opener with a dash and the topic afterward. I did that because I like to know who's sending emails to me so I can decide if I want to open them or not. (Sorry folks.) I figured if other people saw SANDRA in all caps they'd know it had to be me and not just anybody with that name - and bring excitement about reading my message. It seems to have worked for the last several years, well, ever since I learned how to use email.

Lately I've been getting the sense that SANDRA may be a little strong for some people to take. (Was that sentence a Freudian slip?) ;-) For some reason the Holy Spirit has been drawing my attention to SANDRA in my Subject line. In the past, I have had people make snide remarks about it, but this is something different. (Isn't it amazing the things people can find to complain about?) I'm sure you know how impossible it is to ignore the Holy Spirit when He piques your interest in something. So I began to consider whether or not I wanted to make a change, and what I might want to change it to. After a bit of thought I decided I would switch to all lower case letters because that speaks to me of a gentle and gracious spirit. The Lord's been giving me some real growth toward my goal in those areas and it felt like it might be a good way to reflect that change by using sandra in my Subject line.

Today I started typing sandra at the top of my emails. I was feeling pretty good about the step I'd taken. After all, our local church recently changed its name to reflect the new life the Lord is bringing to His body here. When we were discussing the concept we talked about the various times in Scripture that God changed names to reflect new life or purpose. It makes a powerful statement and that's what I wanted to do. Well, after a few emails, the Lord spoke to me. No, not audibly, ;-) but clearly - in my spirit one might say.

"This is a good idea. You're right, sandra is much less bombastic, but those small letters make you appear a little insignificant."

I responded, "Oh, yes, Lord. That's all right. Before you I am insignificant. I want people to see You and not me."

I got a response I was not ready for. "Sandra, you are significant."

I have to confess that I couldn't accept it at first. Then I began to remember all the lessons the Lord has made real to me through Scripture, especially Isaiah 43. It was as if God were telling me, "I made you. You are mine. I love you. You are finite before Me, your infinite holy God and Father, but you are precious to Me. I chose you to be mine before I made any part of the world. I have kept you and will continue to watch over you all the days of your life until I bring you home to live with me for all eternity. I want you to understand that in a very real sense I show Myself through you. As my Daughter and fellow heir with my Son Jesus, you are my ambassador, a living letter to those I bring to you."

I was bowled over! I know that God cannot lie and His Word is true. I drank in what He was showing me with humility and as confirmation. You see, over these last months God has been revealing Himself to me in very personal ways. I've been a believer for almost 40 years. I know and have seen God's loving watchcare over me. The truth is though that it's always easier to pray for others and then praise God for His detailed answers to them. I'm definitely not a Paul- or Esther-size saint and it's not always easy to shed burdens from the past. This was a glimpse that took my breath away.

When my emotions calmed down and the tears stopped falling, I looked at the sandra that was typed out in front of me. It did look a little plain and insignificant.

"Okay, God. What should I do to let people know who I am?"

I looked at the poor little sandra and thought of the SANDRA and decided neither one fit. I added a capital S at the beginning and took another look. Yup, that looked pretty good. The S is the first thing people will see, just as I want it to be in my life. The first thing I want people to see about me is the image of God. It's the most important thing about me and the best they will ever know. God is sovereign and I want my capital S to illustrate that truth. (I'm sorry for all you other people who have names that begin with different letters.) ;-) The rest of the letters of my name can remain lower case. God has made a lot of progress in my life, but there is still a lot of work to do. Besides, a capital at the front of a word means that it is a proper noun, the name of a particular person, place or thing. I'm not just particular - some might say peculiar - I'm unique. It isn't always easy being me, but it's who God made me to be and He's teaching me by His grace to accept, enjoy and even revel in that truth. Hallelujah!

It's not a great event in the history of the world. Most people will never even notice the change. The fact that I've decided to go back to the common spelling of my name on the Subject line of my emails won't make a mosquito blink. Nevertheless, it is undertaken with a deeper understanding of who God is and who I am before Him. The capital S at the front of my name is no longer just a convention of grammar. Every time I type it I will be making a statement before God and man, the seen and the unseen world, of all that I've just expressed. Who would have thought God would grant such a powerful glimpse through the Subject line of an email?

Keep your eyes open! You never know where God will show Himself. Love, Sandra :-)

Parable of the Knee, Glimpse #8

2007-10-31T08:36:00.000-04:00

The appointment for my second opinion was an exciting event. Curt came with me to make sure I said everything I needed to say and understood everything I was told. Dr. Ouelette listened while I explained the original injury and the following months. I did my best to relay the details of what had taken place with the first orthopedist without denigrating his opinion. It wasn't easy.

Then Dr. O took over with his examination. He poked and prodded both of my legs in a variety of positions. In the final evaluation he took hold of my hands and had me do a deep knee bend on my right leg. While all my weight was on my involved knee he moved left to right in an arc in front of me. I was fully expecting to collapse in pain, but nothing happened. I was amazed!

Then we sat down to talk and Dr. O let me know right away that there wasn’t anything wrong with my meniscus. He pointed out that the original diagnosis was a “bruised meniscus” and stated that he didn’t even know what that was. He’d never heard of it. As Dr. O went through the ideas he had, he suggested we take another set of x-rays so he could check out the bone. The earlier set was not available to us. The office staff was kind and efficient as they undertook this last minute process.

After Dr. O studied the x-rays he pointed out a small dark spot on the top of the lower leg bone, on the inside edge. It corresponded exactly with the area where I kept having topical discomfort. He said that it showed a cyst in that area and suggested that I had bruised the cyst when I fell. Then, as time went on, it would go through phases of healing and re-injury. Hah, who’d ever heard of a cyst on a bone before? I sure hadn’t. However, the diagnosis fit with everything I’d been experiencing. It all made sense and I was elated.

Of course, now I needed to know what, if anything, could be done about it. My first thought was to just go in and take it out surgically. But Dr. O was much more conservative. He talked about the cyst having been there for a long time without pain. He suggested that I continue with the exercises since I was making progress. He felt that giving the area another three months to return to an asymptomatic state was reasonable given the normal healing time for a bone cyst. To tell the truth, he also talked about the whole situation being part of the development of arthritis. I can’t imagine how he could have been off about that one part. I'm sure I'm not old enough to have any arthritic symptoms. ;-)

As Curt and I walked out of the office I couldn’t help but think about the major difference a perspective can make. I’d thought I was a hopeless cripple, but now I had a specific situation to overcome. As a sinner I can view myself as a hopeless cripple, but it is a saint (sinner saved by grace) I have a situation I can overcome. When I sin I can come to God and ask forgiveness. 1 John 1:9 proclaims the truth that “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

There was another aspect of this appointment that brought me full-circle. An “expert” told me what was wrong with my knee, but I was the one experiencing the problem. When his explanation didn’t fit the situation and things were not improving, I’d gone further to find a resolution. If I’d settled for the first doctor’s opinion, I would have suffered much longer on many levels. Instead, with the new information I have a clearer understanding. I see a brighter future as I am more able to address the problem. I am thankful!

This brings me back to the early stages of this parable. Numbers of people were happy to tell me that the problem with my knee was God telling me I needed to slow down, but I was the one experiencing the problem. Their explanation didn’t fit the situation and certainly wouldn’t have improved what was happening. I had to go further to find a resolution. If I’d settled for their opinion, I would have missed so much on so many levels. Instead, with fresh awareness of the loving touch of my Heavenly Father I have a clearer understanding of His personal interest in my life. I see an amazing future as I am more able to address not only my involved knee, but the plethora of issues that I face, with the many truths He has been revealing to me. I am monumentally thankful to God for teaching me to love and trust him, to follow Him and watch Him work.

What a loving Father we have:

Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him! Matthew 7:9-11

May you also learn to love and trust, follow and watch with all your heart.

Interruption Glimpse

2007-10-21T14:46:00.000-04:00

I've been content lately - not just happy on the surface, content deep down. I suppose there could be any number of reasons for it. After all, the hole in the roof got patched which means the damage to our bedroom ceiling won't get any worse. :-) Then again, maybe that's not the reason because now we have to get a new roof and replace the bedroom ceiling. :-( No matter what positive things happen in my life, there always seem to be a certain amount of negative things to balance them out. Life in this fallen world is like that. This time the Lord showed me the source of my contentment and that's made it all the sweeter and longer-lasting. Hallelujah!

I've been a Christian for a long time, almost 40 years. I've had my share of ups and downs in the spiritual department as well as the various other departments of my life. This "up phase" is centered fully on the Gospel of Jesus Christ - not simply the miracle of His virgin birth; nor the powerful testimony of His life; nor the truth of His substitutionary death, redeeming shed blood, and bodily resurrection; not even His current position as advocate to the Father and future role as judge of the world. These and countless other facts pour from the word of God to flood my brain and sustain my soul. I sit in the presence of my Heavenly Father seeking to know Him better through His reflection in His Son.

John 14:6 tells me that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. The verses that follow help me to understand that by getting to know God the Son, I am also getting to know God the Father. In verse 10 Jesus asks, "Don't you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me?" He goes on to explain that the words He says are not just his own and that the Father is living in Him and doing His work. Hm. Remember Acts 17:28 tells us that we too "live and move and have our being [in God]." The very next verse reminds us that we are "God's offspring" and confirms the truth of Ephesians 3:6 where we are called heirs with Christ. My mind is racing.

Further on in John 14, at verse 11, Jesus repeats, "I am in the Father and the Father is in me." Two distinct persons yet "in" each other. I can neither fully comprehend nor appreciate the impact of the unity and diversity of the Godhead. Nevertheless, from time to time I am given a glimpse such as this that engages every aspect of my senses. Roof? What roof? I've written a few words, but I cannot begin to articulate the amazing awarenesses that are passing through my brain. I'm so wrapped up in the awesomeness of God that rooves, leaky or otherwise, are not even on my radar screen. Unpaid bills, hurtful comments, heavy responsibilities, unfinished projects, . . . no longer weigh on me. They simply fade into the background as I marvel at the infinite God who loves me.

The next step for me will be to try to figure out how to incorporate these truths into my daily life - to make them part of who I am and share them with others. At the moment, this is only a vague hope built on trust in my Father that He reveals these things to me for a purpose. I'm sure you can see how this process will be another episode of losing myself in His presence. :-) When He allows me to make more sense of them I will share with you here. In the meantime I can't help but feel that these glimpses are tiny tastes of heaven where we will live in God's presence, content for all eternity.

The real purpose of this glimpse though is a conversation I had with a dear friend last week. We were sharing about these times of deep contentment when we are swallowed up in who God is. She was having trouble dealing with some struggles and was wishing that she could live every moment in the serenity of the contentment described above. I encouraged her to remember that we live in a fallen world. I did my best to remind her that Jesus Himself struggled when He lived among us. John 11:35 was the one example I could offer at the time. This verse is known as the shortest verse in the Bible, "Jesus wept." I said that Jesus was obviously saddened and upset at the death of Lazarus. Then our conversation got interrupted and we had to say good-bye. My heart wouldn't settle on the topic. I have since done a brief study that I will share with her here. Please feel free to look over my/her shoulder.

My first stop is John 11:35, but I can never read just one verse. Reading through the context I notice that verse 33 says that Jesus was "deeply moved in spirit and troubled." Jesus is faced with the very real consequences of living in a world affected by Genesis 3 sin - death and separation. The Bible says that Jesus was troubled and wept.

In John 13 Jesus is with His disciples at the Passover meal in Jerusalem. He has washed His disciples' feet and encouraged them to do the same for one another. Then Jesus explained that one of the twelve would betray Him. Verse 21 tells us, "Jesus was troubled in spirit."

The word "troubled" isn't used in either the Mark or Luke account of Christ clearing the money changers out of the temple in Jerusalem. Nevertheless, I think it's fair to say that Jesus wasn't peacefully content at that moment. Jesus was affected by and reacting to the sin displayed in the outer courts.

Mark 14:33 tells us that Jesus was "deeply distressed and troubled" as he entered Gethsemane for prayer. Jesus told His disciples, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death." As a matter of fact, Jesus was so upset that in verse 36 He called out, "Abba [Daddy], Father, everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me."

Finally, though the word "troubled" isn't used, can there be any doubt about the agony Jesus felt in Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34 when He called out to His Father from the cross, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"

Thank you, Father, again for the truth and power, grace and peace we find in your Word.

God promises us over and over again that He will never leave us nor forsake us. We never have to face the trials and struggles, hurdles and heartaches of this fallen world alone.

Hebrews 4:15 is full of reassurance for those of us who find ourselves confronted by the difficulties of this life. "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are - yet was without sin." Jesus was fully God and fully man. Jesus recognized the sin in our fallen world and He was affected by it just as we are - spiritually, emotionally, psychologically, physically. God tells us that Jesus was deeply moved, distressed and troubled at times. Jesus hurt and wept and cried out to His Father. Hallelujah, Jesus understands what we face!

Yet, Jesus was without sin. That means that realizing, feeling and admitting the impact of the sinfulness around us is not sin. Jesus is our perfect, sinless example so expressing our emotions is not sin. Jesus also did something about it whenever He could, in appropriate ways. The difference is that no matter what was happening, no matter how Jesus felt, no matter what His senses were telling Him, no matter what the cost, Jesus continued to love, trust and submit to the will of God His and our Father. The words recorded in Mark 14:36 as the closing words of Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane are "Yet not what I will, but what you will." Jesus' final act on the cross is expressed in Luke 23:46, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit."

Listen, my Friend. Jesus walked this sinful earth and overcame every temptation. Jesus was perfectly faithful and now sits at God's right hand as our advocate. We are not perfect, but Jesus has made a way for us. Every moment cannot be spent in full contentment in this life. We can look forward to heaven for that joy. In the meantime, let us drink in the encouragement of Hebrews 4:16 and "approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace" so that no matter what the trials are, no matter how they affect us, no matter what our senses tell us, God will enable us to continue to love and trust Him as we submit to His will in obedience and bring glory to His Name. Amen Roof? What roof?

Parable of the Knee, Glimpse #7

2007-10-16T15:31:00.000-04:00

The first PT (Physical Therapy) appointment was interesting, to say the least. "Jeff" wanted to know how I'd injured my leg and what difficulties I was experiencing. He did an overall evaluation of my knee, including looking at the MRI films. Then we started the exercises.

To say that it was tough is an understatement. It didn't take me long to figure out that the hardest part of starting PT wasn't doing leg lifts or riding a stationery bicycle. The highest hurdle was relaxing the inhibitors in my brain to allow my bad leg to move.

Oops, Jeff says I'm not supposed to say my "bad" leg. I'm supposed to say my "involved" leg. :-)

Actually, when I arrived for this first PT appointment my upper back was so tight that I was having trouble moving at all. I mentioned it to Jeff and asked if he might be able to give me some pointers about my back at the end of the session. He was non-commital and concentrated on my involved leg :-) for the entire session. Nevertheless, I discovered that as I relaxed my brain and thereby my leg, it didn't take me long to realize that my entire body was relaxing. Evidently as I focused on building up the muscles around my involved knee, the nervous energy or whatever it was that was affecting my back was being drained away. At least whatever was causing the pain in my back was no longer being fed. By the time our hour was over I felt as if I'd been given a whole new body. The tiny seed of hope was beginning to sprout!

Of course nothing in this life worth having comes easily. It was no surprise that Jeff told me I needed to do the various types of exercises throughout the week at home. He told me I needed to be consistent - twice a day, ten times each, leg lifts with ankle weights, the "Jane Fonda" move, leaning back against a ball, etc. It was a lot. I received the instructions with joy and contemplated meeting the goal Jeff set for me with relish. I was absolutely certain that if I just followed his directions I'd be back on my feet in no time.

As a matter of fact after only two days I felt progress. I was able to walk straight and strong and the pain in my back had not returned. I guess my whole body had been reacting to the crooked way I was walking. I was no longer walking in fear and despair. The results were enough to keep my dedication strong. My first return PT visit was an uplifting event. I felt that things were moving along and Jeff complimented me for my faithfulness to the exercise regimen. I hadn't missed a single time. I figured a day would come when I would slide, but for now the rewards came fast and the compliments flowed freely so I kept up the routine.

At various times as I went through my workout, I would laugh at myself and speak to the Lord. Okay, Father, having an injured knee can't really be a slowing down technique. All we've done is add a twice-a-day exercise schedule to my life. I guess the discipline you built into me over the past year with serious weekly deadlines wasn't enough. I thought we made plenty of progress through that writing assignment, but this slow student must need more discipline. Please release me when I've got enough. ;-)

After a few weeks though I hit a wall. No, not a literal, physical wall. I just got to a point where I felt I couldn't go on. I was still being plagued by topical sensitivity and the painful discomfort continued sporadically. There was no rhyme or reason to when it would incapacitate me. Even though I'd been faithful to follow all of Jeff's directions, I wasn't seeing the kind of results I'd expected. During one of my PT sessions I poured out my discouragement to Jeff and could barely hold back the tears. As we moved around the various equipment he did his best to encourage me. The floor exercises were coming along, but I was still using only four pound weights. The time on the stationery bike felt good, but I'd had to give up using the exercise ball. I confessed that my commitment to the exercises was waning, caused mostly by the lack of ongoing improvement.

It was during this interchange that I realized that I'd placed all of my hope for recovery in the program Jeff had laid out for me. I'd figured that if I was perfectly faithful to his directions I would see steady, consistent improvement. That simply wasn't happening. The lack of obvious improvement was deflating my commitment. Faced with the realities of my situation, I had to admit that I'd built my trust on the wrong foundation. It was possible that I could follow Jeff's exercise regimen the rest of my life and never see sufficient improvement. It was a dramatic wake-up call for me.

As Jeff and I reconsidered the situation with my involved leg, neither of us were satisfied with what was happening. He gently suggested that it might be a good idea if I got a second opinion on what was going on with my knee. What we'd been doing, while it had provided some improvement, wasn't accomplishing what we'd hoped. There were still too many symptoms remaining to settle for the knowledge we had up to this point. It was definitely time to seek further assistance. I said yes to getting a second opinion and before I left the building Jeff had arranged an orthopedic appointment for three weeks hence.

Suddenly a whole new world of possibilities opened up to me. Maybe this new doctor would find something specific that he could repair quickly. After all, I'm an American. Don't I have a right to a speedy resolution to any problem? All the shows on TV tie everything up nice and neatly in 60 minutes, unless it's a TV movie and then it might take a little longer. Seriously, a new level of hope did spring up in the light of this new direction. I was looking once again for the light at the end of the tunnel, the sun coming up over the horizon.

The PT program provided by the therapist, although it brought some relief, was an inadequate foundation for my entire prognosis. The Lord had used the PT to show me that I needed more discipline in my life. Thank you, Lord. Now it was time to find out what else He had for me. I began to wonder in how many other situations I had trusted solely in the human dynamic and set aside the spiritual reality. Thank you, Lord, for showing me that I need to build my trust on the proper foundation. I turned to the Lord in my new awareness and asked Him to help me trust Him in every aspect of my life. I asked Him to help me trust Him first and foremost and not just in the spiritual realm.

More importantly, I had again reached the end of myself. I was doing everything I could think of to bring about or at least assist in my own healing, but to no avail. I called out with Jehoshaphat in 2 Chroncles 20:12, "We do not know what to do, but our eyes are upon you." Thank you, Lord, for showing me that You are the one I need to watch for and follow. The Lord came in and showed me His power and might - but that's for the next installment of this parable.

Interruption Glimpse

2007-10-10T19:29:00.001-04:00

It's a little late to be writing an in-depth piece like the one I feel rising up inside me. I'm sitting before the Lord in awe and praise for all He's been doing in my life. I know I'm not capable of articulating it all yet because I don't have a clear picture myself, but I have to take a stab at it while it's still fresh.

It's been a bear of a week. In a way that's expected since I'm preparing for a special event this coming weekend. I'm the point person for our Ladies Retreat, the major event in our annual calendar. The Lord has been laying out some really wonderful things. It's clear that He has a lot He wants to bring to us during this gathering. So, it's no surprise that the annoyer is causing trouble. The truth is that many of my attitudes and actions have not been "particularly pretty." (Those in the know will read that "downright sinful".) The amazing part is that God reached down and enveloped me in His tender hands even though I am so ugly. In spite of the corruption in my life, my Father saw the righteousness of His Holy Son and acted gently toward me out of His perfect love.

At last night's Ladies Bible Study we talked about the beauty of our God - how the unity of the Godhead and the diversity of the Trinity are reflected in His body as He builds it in the midst of this fallen world. We were looking at the 1 Corinthians 12 passage about the oneness of the body and the diversity of its parts. It was marvelous to reflect on the perfect example of interdependence that we see in the persons of our Triune God. The discussion was about Biblical friendships, but as we looked into Scripture on that topic we came to a fuller understanding of the awesomeness of our great Creator. Hallelujah!

I now understand that part of my problem this week was that I couldn't see where I was going. For some reason I wasn't able to develop images for the week or the retreat at the end. This is a major handicap for a visual learner like myself. I didn't realize what was going on at the time. I merely felt as if I were inside a paper bag. Of course, my reaction was to try to fight my way out - Silly Girl!

It was as if I were sitting on the deck on an early fall morning when the mist is still on the lake. The air is so full of moisture that I'm not able to see the scenery on the opposite shore. I've come to accept and even enjoy the early morning mists on Loon Pond, but having my vision veiled as it was earlier this week with so much that had to get done brought me to near panic. I ran in circles bringing myself and my dear, patient husband to near collapse. Thankfully God rescued me. He brought me to the end of myself and to the beginning of Himself.

What I needed to do was to wait for His intervention to move me forward. I needed to consider what the Lord had for me in the time of uncertainty. I needed to take my eyes off myself and put them back on Him. When the time was right He gave me the images I needed to step up the pace and finish the retreat preparations. Today was a calm day filled with enjoyable tying up of projects that I wouldn't have thought possible given the timetable.

Thank you, Father! I haven't messed up this badly in a while. Thank you for your forgiveness so rich and free. Please remind me to come to you right away the next time I sense the veil.

Once again the Lord has given me a glimpse into His goal for my life - to glorify Him and enjoy Him forever - and how to reach it. As I rest/remain in His presence as described in John 15, the trials of this life fade away into the background. As I contemplate His true character, the cares of this world are swallowed up in praise. As I seek His face, the desire to walk in obedience becomes overwhelming and the directions are clear.

Acts 17:27,28a explains, "God did this [carried out His sovereign plan] so that men [Sandra] would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. For in him we live and move and have our being."

Parable of the Knee, Glimpse #6

2007-10-08T10:09:00.000-04:00

Okay, so I missed a week. I was out of town for most of last week and missed my regular blog writing time. That’s okay, this entry is an important one so let’s get back to the saga.

I did my best to adjust to the new view of my life I’d been given by Dr. M. I would walk when I could and hobble when I couldn’t. I put any thoughts of future physical activities on hold, choosing to cope with the present instead. I wasn’t too good at it at first, but acceptance slowly came along. There are things to delight in, even when you don’t like the overall picture.

For example, I’d always wanted to drive one of those electric carts around the warehouse store where we shop. Now I had the perfect excuse to unplug one, sit on the seat and take off. It was a lot of fun driving up and down the aisles, testing my steering ability around corners and the top speed on straightaways. I had so much fun that I didn't even notice if other people were staring at me or not. I don’t think Curt enjoyed the experience quite as much as I did though. Maybe that’s because he had to jump out of the way a few times. :-)

I chose to use my cane regularly in order to speed along my adjustment to my new, more limited lifestyle. I wasn’t ready to use the electric chair at church, but I knew that could be coming soon. While not fully embracing what looked to me like a boring future, I felt I’d come a long way toward living with my permanent disability. At least that’s what I thought until I met Dr. Christine Sullivan, the new GP I found when I was searching for an orthopedist.

I made an appointment to meet Dr. Sullivan and discuss my coming under her care. She was gracious and professional which put me at ease and gave me confidence. She was pleasantly surprised that the only medication that I took regularly was a multi-vitamin. I was pleasantly surprised that she only worked three days a week in order to leave time for her family. My knee injury was the only dissonant point in our interview. Imagine my surprise, when after listening carefully to the details, she asked if I might be interested in receiving some physical therapy. The orthopedic specialist had never even hinted at the idea which had contributed to my feelings of hopelessness.

I’m sure my eyes lit up. Those of you who know me are aware that everything I’m feeling shows on my face. Here was a medical professional suggesting that my condition could be improved. Wow! The possibility shot through my nervous system like a jolt from a taser gun. Nobody was handing me a magic pill or waving a wand over my leg, but just the idea that maybe the picture wasn’t as dark as Dr. M had made it sound was enough to kindle a spark of hope. Of course, my response was a resounding, “Yes.”

I fairly skipped out of the examining room as I made my way to the departure area, if it’s possible to do that with a cane and a hurting knee. Okay, so maybe it was more my imagination than reality. At least my heart was lightly skipping as I made my first PT appointment for the following week. I headed home with a whole new set of thoughts and prayers. Maybe God wasn’t finished with me yet. Maybe the rotten meniscus wasn’t the end of my life as I knew it. Maybe there was a way that my life of service to my King could be redeemed, at least some of it.

My ride home was the total opposite of my ride to the medical center. The future that I’d refused to contemplate came rushing back into my mind. Sure there would be hard times. Everybody knows physical therapy can be really demanding. But for the first time in weeks I had been given a tiny inkling of a suggestion that my life wasn’t completely shut down. With a tiny touch of hope the whole world had opened up for me. Hm, how did that match my spiritual life?

God gently reminded me of the lessons He’d taught me earlier about hope. First, I’ve come to recognize that when I get to the end of my rope a feeling of hopelessness washes over me. “What’s the point?” is often the phrase that comes to mind. When that happens, the Holy Spirit gently reminds me that I am never without hope because Christ, the source of hope, lives in me. Colossians 1:27 I’ve come to understand that when the Holy Spirit "taps on my shoulder", I need to pay close attention. His intervention is enough to turn my thoughts 180 degrees in the right direction.

I was reminded that the rotten meniscus couldn’t regenerate itself, but that my rotten soul had already been regenerated by Christ Himself. Ephesians 1:7,8
No matter what my physical condition might be now or in the future, God has clothed me with the righteousness of His Son and has prepared tasks for me to accomplish. Ephesians 2:10
Regardless of circumstances or feelings or diagnoses, God has a hold of me and will not let me go. Romans 8:38
The hope that God has given and is developing in my life does not disappoint. Romans 5:1-8
The truth is that God has a plan for my life with expectations I cannot fathom, but I choose to embrace with all my heart. Jeremiah 29:11 and Romans 8:28-30

I pray that you will take the time to read and consider the above Scriptures as you open your heart to the message the Holy Spirit has for you.

May the Hope of all creation bless you as you rest in Him.

Parable of the Knee, Glimpse #5

2007-09-23T17:42:00.000-04:00

The best and most exciting part of this point of the saga is that the diagnosis came within one week from finally getting an appointment. God had moved in miraculous ways through the medical community to bring me to this position. I was elated. Curt came with me as we went to hear the verdict about this annoying health problem. I'd put it off for a long time. Then when I knew I needed help it took some time for me to find the way. Now I was on the verge of getting the information I needed to take the steps to get my knee back to the way it was before the injury.

Dr. M came into the room and greeted us. He took the MRI films and put them on the light box. We were not surprised by the usual hemming and hawing we heard as he considered the images in detail. The good news came first, "Well, you have good strong bones. Just a little bit of wear that's normal for your age." (I wasn't exactly sure what that meant.) Still no surprises there. He looked a bit longer then flopped down onto his stool with a sigh. He blurted out the bad news, "This is the worst possible scenario." I was shocked as I stammered, "What do you mean?"

"See these little dark patches here? They show that your meniscus, the little pad on the inside of your knee that sits between the lower and upper leg bones, is completely deteriorated at the center." Again I stammered, "Isn't there anything we can do about it?" "No, if it were torn or something I could operate and repair it. I can't do anything with this. The center of the meniscus has no blood vessels. It can't heal itself and I can't fix it." The absolute finality in his voice was obvious, but I'm no quitter.

"There must be something we can do," I pleaded.

"No, not really. There isn't anything anybody can do," Dr. M reiterated.

It appeared that my life as I knew it was ending. I wasn't about to just walk out the door and settle for this "worst possible scenario" without a fight. "Would it help if I exercise?" I needed to know if there was anything I might be able to contribute that would improve my situation. Dr. M wasn't about to be baited into any type of real hope. He made a tentative offering, "Well, I suppose you could strengthen the surrounding area somewhat. Just take a sock and put a couple of soup cans in it. Hang it over your ankle and use it like lifting weights."

I really wanted some details, "Do you have any kind of information I could read or directions I could follow?" He took a couple of minutes to shuffle through folders on the counter. He handed me a sheet with drawings on it with a face full of hopelessness. It seemed that he was already preparing to meet his next patient. I still wasn't grasping the full impact of what he'd told me.

"What does this mean about my future?" I needed to know what the medical establishment was giving me for a lifestyle. He was happy to share his prognosis, "Oh, you'll be able to get around and when it finally tears or shatters you can come back and I'll repair it for you." My life as I'd known it passed before my eyes. It felt the way people who've had near-death experiences express it. I followed Curt out past the receptionist and to the car. I'm not sure I even said good-bye to anybody. I think I held my breath for about a mile down the road. I was having trouble processing what just took place.

First, I tried to get a hold of the dramatic turn of events and my reaction to it. I'd gone into the appointment figuring surgery of some type would be recommended. I would not be happy about the pain and recovery time, but it would be worth it to correct the problem. That hadn't happened at all. I'd been released from the need to set aside a hospital date, change my schedule for the recuperation period and actually go through the pain and discomfort. That was a good thing, right? So why was I so disturbed? What a fickle people we humans are.

My next round of thoughts followed this path: Okay, my meniscus is rotten at the core and there isn't anything I can do about it. It can't heal itself because it doesn't have the potential to do so. This one little part of me has massive influence on my entire life.

I was left with no hope for my future, either short or long term. I began crossing things off my list: enjoying days off with my husband, skiing with my grandchildren, walking with a friend, working in my yard, sightseeing, etc., etc., etc. It began to feel as if I had no real life left and there wasn't anything I could do about it. Hopelessness overwhelmed me. I thank God that He never leaves me in that place!

I turned my situation over in my mind. Fresh insights began to flow into me. Many of the aspects of the diagnosis took on fresh meaning. The meniscus was rotten at the core, just as my soul had been dead in sin. My meniscus was not able to restore itself, just as I was not able to heal myself from my sinful position before a holy God. There wasn't anything I could do to even contribute to my healing, just as my redemption from sin was solely up to God. Dr. M couldn't do anything to help me, just as Mankind couldn't do anything to heal my relationship with my Father. The problem I had with one little part of my body was affecting my entire life, just as the one "little" problem of sin had kept me from the abundant life. Though the Lord didn't give me relief immediately, He began to use the loss and discouragement to teach me.

A smile did not come over my face, but I was thankful to come before my Savior and Lord - to thank Him for His healing blood that cleansed me from all unrighteousness, to sit in His presence in this newly recognized "laboratory" where He wanted to teach me about Himself and His love for me, and so much more. The circumstances did not evaporate, but the knowledge that I was and am the chosen child of the loving, triune God was more than enough to keep me. And oh, the glorious things the Master has and is showing me in this ongoing parable.

The report doesn't end here. I admit that I spent a fair amount of time in the Pit of Despair. Being a regular human being who lives in a fallen world there were plenty of reminders of what I'd lost and how dear it was to me. My own powerlessness would sweep over me from time to time as well. There were days when the spiritual battle was biting and bitter. I can't tell you that I've been the bravest or most skilled member of God's army through it all. I can tell you that there are many twists and turns yet to share with you. I can also tell you that God has never waivered. His faithfulness has carried me along day-by-day, step-by-step, and moment-by-moment. Maybe I should have titled this the Love Story of the Knee. :-)

Okay, I'll give you a hint about the upcoming Glimpses. Curt and I have bought passes for the upcoming ski season. I've also purchased a lovely lady's cane. I trust those two pieces will keep you coming back to discover more of what the Lord is revealing to me through this Parable of the Knee. No, slowing down was definitely not the lesson God had for me. It is so much richer!

Interruption Glimpse

2007-09-19T07:24:00.000-04:00

I'm doing my best to be faithful to the Parable of the Knee saga. It was and is an amazing journey learning about the Lord in this particular health issue. The problem is that God is not limited to only one area of my life, nor is He limited in time or space. That means that while I'm trying to relate the glimpses He's giving me of who He is and how He works in the lives of His people from my knee experience, God continues to open other areas of my life and offer me glimpses into His loving presence and wonderful ways.

I've been thinking about using the term Interruption Glimpse for these little asides that appear to be cropping up. In one way I don't like it because it implies a disruption of the normal flow of things. That has a negative aspect to it that I'd like to avoid. On the other hand, when God shows Himself in a powerful way it certainly is an interruption to the daily routine. When the angel came to tell Mary that she was going to have a baby, it could easily have been seen as an interruption in her day. My paperback dictionary says that "to interrupt" means "to break in upon an action."

Well, I want God to break in upon the actions I witness in this fallen world. I praise and thank Him for the times He shows Himself in such a way that it stands out in mighty contrast to the confusion and insanity that goes on around me. Every tiny peek He brings to my attention catches me up and reminds me that He is there and this is not all there is. Hallelujah!

Oh, how I long for the day when I will be able to set my eyes on the Lord to such a degree that the things of this life would become the interruptions. I want to be so close to my Father that it is His perspective that I see as I make my way through my days.

Back to the Glimpse:
Last night at Ladies Bible study we were treated to a visual representation of the call God places on our lives and a glimpse of the way He uses us. It wasn't a complicated process yet I'm not sure any of us who were there were able to grasp the full extent of what He showed us.

First the main business of the meeting was completed; offering the welcome, making some announcements, passing out the books, and reviewing the guidelines. Then a brief outline of the truths found in Matthew 5:14-16 was given. When the speaker turned out the lights, the ladies began to wonder, but when the candle in the center of the table was blown out they were on high alert. What was going on?

The speaker pointed out that the late-September night that invaded the room was a good example of the darkness of the world in which those outside of Christ must live. Without God there is no true light. As everyone's eyes adjusted to the dark it was noted that there was a bit of light shining in one corner. The speaker had carefully set a light source in an adjoining room with a small window in its door. The source of the light was out of sight though so none of the ladies could figure out any of the details about it - where it was exactly, what type of light it was, what it looked like, etc. The ladies were thankful that the room wasn't pitch black, but they were encouraged to stay in their seats because the light was insufficient to allow them to move around safely. This scenario was a good example of a question that is often asked, "How do people without the Lord make their way in this world?"

The speaker then went over and opened the door to the adjoining room. The light was more obvious at this point and the ladies were able to make some observations. They decided that the source couldn't have a shade on it because its rays were quite glaring. They could tell it was set in the corner because they still couldn't see it directly. But they were still unable to figure out the rest of the details about where it was exactly, what type of light it was, what it looked like, etc. The ladies were able to relax a bit with the increased light. They could make out the general layout of the room and the people in it. However, it was still too dark to move around easily or even clearly see each other's faces. It was certainly too dark to be able to read or do any detail work. This setting was a good example of so many people's lives who stumble around in the darkness. They have some sense of what's out there, but cannot make their way because they can't make out the details.

Finally, the speaker took a mirror and held it in such a way that the rays from the light source were directed at the ladies gathered at the table. Though it took their eyes a minute to adjust to so much light in the darkness, they were finally able to describe its source. The small wrought iron electric lamp was sitting on a child-size blue chair. It had a regular shaped bulb but no lampshade. They could not see the lamp directly, but were able to discern these truths because of the reflection provided by the mirror. The mirror also provided sufficient light for the ladies to clearly see each other's faces. Those who were in the direct line of the reflection could easily have gotten up and moved safely toward the speaker who held the mirror. Oh, what a wonderful example of the way God reveals Himself to us and the power and confidence we have to share Him with others.

The Scriptures are filled with references to God being the source of light, among them 1 John 1:5. As Creator, God spoke and the heavenly lights came into being, Genesis 1:3. Psalm 27:1 tells us, "The Lord is my light and my salvation - whom shall I fear?" Jesus, His one and only Son, declares in John 8:12, "I am the Light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

God made Man in His image, therefore we are able to reflect His image of light. As long as we remain in our sin that imageness is tarnished and the reflection is fatally flawed. When we come to God in humility, asking forgiveness, He applies the blood of His Son to clear our debt. God clothes us in the breastplate of the righteousness of Christ, a reflecting surface . Just as the mirror in the demonstration was able to bring details of the source of light to the ladies in the adjoining room, so those clothed in Christ's righteouenss are able to bring details of who God is and how He cares for His people to those living in darkness. As we bask in His presence we are more able to reflect the true Light of life.

Let me quickly add a couple of observations here about the mirror in this demonstration.

The mirror on its own was just a piece of glass with fancy backing. It had to be in the presence of the light source to be useful.
The mirror had no value by itself. Its basic use and purpose was to simply re-direct the light energy from its source.
The mirror couldn't position itself to be effective. The speaker had to set the mirror at the proper angle to send the reflecting rays into the dark room.
Although the lamp was sufficient to light up the whole room, the mirror was not able to reflect enough light to illuminate the entire room where the ladies were gathered. The mirror provided information about the lamp, but the ladies needed the lamp itself to be able to function fully.

The mirror has a lot to say. We don't need to be doing a lot of "gymnastics" to show people who God is. We don't need to be theological giants to tell people what God has done. All we need to do is sit in God's presence and bask in His light. Then, as we go through our days we will walk in the light of our Lord. Isaiah 2:5 The Holy Spirit will set us in position and we will reflect the Light of the world to those sitting in darkness. Amen

I'm sure as you ponder the various aspects of this demonstration the Holy Spirit will show you a number of other truths represented here. Feel free to share them with me for my edification and/or the edification of others.

Parable of the Knee, Glimpse #4

2007-09-16T19:54:00.000-04:00

It’s been an amazing week with God. He’s pouring out so much from His Word that I feel as if a fire hose has been directed at me. The analogy breaks down a bit though because the stream isn’t hard-hitting or damaging. It’s just full on, powerful and totally drenching. I simply can’t take in all that He’s showing me.

As a matter of fact, the problem is becoming so severe that I’m beginning to think that I may need to post more than once a week. Maybe I need to continue on with the Parable once a week and post one of my new lessons once a week. At least then I might have a hope of keeping up and keeping things straight.

Right now I want to take the next step in the process of addressing the weakness and pain in my knee. Having decided that the list of negative consequences was long enough to warrant serious attention, I turned my focus to seeking medical care. I’ll try to make this phase much shorter, sweeter and easier for you than it was for me.

I had decided a couple of years earlier that I needed to find a new primary care physician, but Maine being Maine I spent several days over several months to no avail. That meant that I had to start with the Nurse Practitioner whom I had been seeing. After a brief chat she assured me that the problem was not related to the bone. She informed me that since it had to do with soft tissue she would like me to see an orthopedist. Since the orthopedist would need to read any MRI films she let me know that it wouldn’t do any good to schedule such tests at this point. She then left the room to get me the contact information for a couple of orthopedists she recommended.

Curt was with me during the “examination” and we commented about her wizardry with diagnoses since she hadn’t even touched my knee but could rule out any bone problems – not to mention that she had immediately nixed the need for any x-rays. And all within about 15 minutes. Even though we were in awe of her expertise [a little sarcasm there], being the cynics we are, we affected a measured response. I graciously received the referral information, but assured her that I would contact the physicians directly and didn’t need the assistance of her office. We wanted to move our medical care to another hospital’s area of service anyway. So took this as a final stepping off place.

The next day I spent over two hours on the phone with our insurance carrier trying to find a physician, either a primary care or an orthopedist. May God bless the office person who carefully went through name after name to find someone within the proper geographic area who was covered by our plan. I ended up with two names to pursue that led me to make appointments with both an orthopedist and a primary care physician. The orthopedist appointment happened much sooner than the primary care, but that was fine with me.

Dr. M chatted with me about the original injury. He seemed a bit surprised that the Nurse Practitioner hadn’t ordered x-rays yet was able to diagnose that the problem didn’t have anything to do with the bones. [Curt and I shared a knowing look.] He examined my knee quite extensively and then, not to our surprise, ordered some x-rays. Evidently they do have a purpose in the world of medical diagnosis. Since there is an x-ray tech on site, the pictures were taken and we waited for the results.

Dr. M came back in and pushed the x-rays under the clip on the lighted board. He inspected them closely and said that the only problem appeared to be a bit of “wearing” on the inside surfaces of the __________ - you know, the knee bones. J I guess that was in order for someone “of my age.” Since bone problems were definitely ruled out, Dr. M let us know that it was most definitely a soft tissue problem and probably something to do with the meniscus. That’s the padding between the _______ upper leg bone and the _______ lower leg bone. He directed me to have an MRI done to confirm his suspicions.

Frankly, I began to wonder if I was going to have to wait another couple of months to get one of those special procedures scheduled. I know how much the MRI machines are in demand. Thankfully, the new hospital is quite efficient and my knee would be able to be photographed three days later. I am so thankful that God has given me a flexible schedule!

The staff at the hospital was wonderful. I was able to bring my own CD to listen to during the procedure. I chose Carry Away by Shane & Shane and it truly did carry me away. The noisy clunking and buzzing was over before I knew it. If anything, it reminded me of a dryer with a dozen pairs of sneakers bouncing around in it. It wasn’t too bad, but I was glad when it was finished. Now that I’d done my part, I was looking forward to Dr. M's report. From the first orthopedist appointment until the final diagnosis was only going to be one week. I was pleased!

As I report on this phase of the process through which God was bringing me, I can see the repetition of so many situations in my life, maybe even life itself. I’m faced with a nagging problem and I choose to disregard it and continue on with what’s in front of me. I make adjustments and think everything is fine while the underlying problem continues to have its far-reaching affect. This process carries on until I can no longer ignore the buried issue. Then everything else stops while I finally address it.

I’m sure you’re right beside me in realizing that if I’d just taken the knee seriously at the beginning I would have avoided a lot of things. I would have saved myself a lot of distress, inconvenience, pain, etc. I’ll go a step further and admit that everybody around me would have been spared a bunch of disruption as well. [Sorry, guys!] Who knows what other effects I’m unaware of that would not have occurred if I hadn’t tried so hard to sidestep the obvious. [pun intended]

Suddenly I’m reminded of my life before Christ. No, I’m not that old. I was born in the A.D. calendar not B.C. :-) I mean the time before I came to recognize and receive the gift of eternal life Christ offered me through His sinless life, crucifixion, death and resurrection. There was a nagging problem in my life that kept me off-balance and in pain. I was in distress and I knew it. I wasn’t able to function properly and it was obvious to me. Yet, I chose to disregard it and continue on with what was in front of me. I made adjustments and acted as if everything was fine while the underlying problem continued to have its far-reaching affect. This process carried on until I could no longer ignore the buried issue.

On that great day in 1972 I put a halt to the hiding, the avoiding, the ignoring. I called out to God to end my weakness and pain. The sin in my life was overwhelming before this Holy God. I confessed it and felt the sweet relief of the truth found in 1 John 1:9, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” Looking back over the time leading up to my conversion, I’ve come to realize that just as with the process of seeking medical care for my knee, God was leading me all along the way.

God allowed and even caused the weakness and pain and its affects on my life. He used everything at His disposal to draw me unto Himself. Just as He took me slowly, purposefully through the justification process, He is leading me through the various, less-than-perfect situations in my life. He does what He needs to in order to get my attention and He takes me where I need to go, to be. The glory of it all is that no matter how painful or endless or hopeless it all looks, God is right beside me working it all out for my benefit. Romans 8:28 Oh, I am so thankful!

So what was the final diagnosis, you're wondering. Well, I’m not ready to divulge that information. There are still a number of chapters to go in this parable and I don’t want to rush ahead. Please do check in again to find out what Dr. M had to say about my MRI. Until then, may God bless you with your own glimpses of who He is and how much He loves you.

Interruption Glimpse

2007-09-09T17:10:00.000-04:00

I know I'm in the process of sharing my Parable of the Knee, but God gave me a glimpse of who He is this week that I can't keep to myself. That's why this is called an Interruption Glimpse.

A friend gave birth to a baby girl and I called to congratulate her. In the process of sharing her experience she mentioned that the Lord had drawn her to read Psalm 18 during the delivery. When the phases came when she wasn't able to read it herself, she had her husband read the God-breathed message to her. With a recommendation like that, as soon as I hung up the phone I pulled out my Bible and turned to this precious portion of Scripture.

The first thing I noticed is that this psalm is a song that David sang when the Lord delivered him from the hand of his enemies and specifically from the hand of Saul. I like to get an idea of the setting and/or background of what I'm going to read so that was helpful. I read my way down through the verses alternately overwhelmed by the greatness of God and my own unworthiness.
I've had a fairly standard walk as a Christian with plenty of struggles and opportunities to rely on God. Verses 16 and 17 spoke clearly to the way the Lord rescues His people from deep waters, powerful enemies, and strong foes. I affirmed the Lord's provision of support in the face of confrontation as outlined in verse 18. The imagery was flowing along as expected until I came to verse 19, He brought me out into a spacious place; he rescued me because he delighted in me.

The word delighted jumped me out and stopped me cold. The word was familiar to me because a dear friend has been sharing her efforts at delighting in the Lord in the midst of life in a fallen world. It's not a word that I use a lot, but my friend and I have been considering Psalm 37:4, Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. This familiar verse directs the believer to delight in the Lord BUT Psalm 18 says that God is the one who does the delighting. It was a shocking surprise!

The basic concept made sense to me with what we know about God. God is the Creator and we are the creatures He made in His image. Scripture teaches that God is the definition of love. 1 John 4:16 We, as His workmanship, are able to love because He first loved us. 1 John 4:19 The more we understand, rest in, and enjoy the love God has for us, the more we are able to share that love with those around us. It's not something that we need to stir up or work at or develop on our own.

I was reminded of the John 15 passage where Christ is described as the vine and His followers as the branches. The word remain is mentioned 10 times in the analogy. We are taught that branches that remain bear fruit. It doesn't say anything about stirring up, working at or developing anything. The branches need to remain which means "to continue to be as specified; to remain at peace." It's not a matter of effort, it's a matter of resting as is.

As I thought through verse 19 I realized that God's Word was telling me that the reason He rescued me is that He delights in me. What a light and pleasant way to consider God's thoughts and motivation toward me. Webster's Encyclopedic Unabridged Dictionary says that delight as a noun means a high degree of pleasure or enjoyment; joy; or rapture. As a verb delight means to give great pleasure, satisfaction or enjoyment; to please highly. The great God of the universe rescued me because He takes pleasure in me. God is satisfied with me. I bring God joy!

Once again God has opened up a whole new world to me. This time with one word. It is too much to take in! Tears flow unchecked.

I emailed my friend who is focusing on delighting in the Lord about what God was showing me. We talked about it on the phone. We're both trying to grasp all the Lord has for us in this glimpse.

The comparison with love is easy to make. God is Creator and we are His creatures made in His image. God delights in us. Therefore, we are able to delight. The more I soak up, understand, and revel in the truth that God Himself delights in Sandra, the more I will be able to delight in Him as He directs me in Psalm 37:4. Wow, it really is all about God.

I'm still sitting in the Lord's presence understanding, soaking up and reveling in this awesome truth. Why don't you consider the words of Psalm 18 yourself. My prayer is that you will be blessed with a similar awareness of how He delights in you. Amen Emmanuel

Parable of the Knee, Glimpse #3

2007-09-03T13:56:00.000-04:00

Today is a beautiful day. The sun is shining and the temperature is just right. There's only one water skier on the lake so it's a pleasant afternoon. There's even a breeze. Who could ask for anything more?

It wasn't such a pleasant picture last May when I was looking ahead to a busy summer. We'd just gotten back from our conference in Bosnia which I'd thought was our last big responsibility. All of a sudden I started to realize that I had two events in June, a conference in Louisiana in July, and a set of seminars in August - on top of my regular activities. That might not sound like a lot, but I'd been thinking that I was going to have a break over the summer months.

Once the shock settled in, I realized that if I was going to be able to meet the responsibilities laid out for me I was going to have to be healthy. The members of the team we took with us to Sarajevo had practically carried me through that outreach. I needed to be honest with myself and get my knee problem corrected. The inconsistency of my physical performance was taking its toll on my life and the lives of those around me. I had to get the situation resolved.

Making the decision to see a doctor about an ongoing problem may not sound like a big deal to many people. For folks like me, it's a hard thing. Not only did I need to admit I had a problem that I needed help to solve, but I had to make time in my busy schedule for a doctor's appointment. Right there, the Lord spoke to me about my ideas of what's important and how precious this temple is that He's given me to house His Holy Spirit.

As I determined to go forward with addressing my knee problem, it dawned on me that Messiah was speaking to me again about my spiritual life. Yes, as mentioned in Glimpse #2, I need to be solidly centered on, completely consumed by God. Hallelujah! God draws me unto Himself and shows Himself to me for His own glory. What a treasure to learn that our relationship is not all one-sided!

God calls me to communicate with Him - not just my concerns for others, but the highest joys and deepest desires of my heart. My Father wants me to learn from and share myself with Him at every level. I thought about the inconsistent attention I'd been giving my knee and realized that my daily devotional time had been pretty inconsistent as well. This precious time alone with my Lord early in the morning is probably the closest time in our relationship. I'd allowed my hectic spring schedule to interfere and it looked like my no-to-quiet summer was threatening to do the same. I determined right then and there that I'd get back into my devotional routine.

My thoughts ran on ahead. 'Well, those times might be inconsistent, but at least I spend regular time studying in the Word.' Whoops, that was true in the spring, but our Bible study usually doesn't meet over the summer. Here was another area of inconsistency that was facing me. :-(
Maybe I'm not doing as well as I think sometimes.

One area I know I am consistent with is gathering together with other believers for worship. As a matter of fact, I am part of two groups that pray together before Sunday morning service. Phew, at least I'm not totally inconsistent. :-)

Sometimes I hear Christians talking about "God's part" and "my part" of doing things. I'm not really sure where or how one draws that kind of line. I just know that God loves me with a perfect love, even though He knows everything about me. He loved me from before the foundations of the world and will love me for all eternity. As a matter of fact, God is the very definition of love. 1 John 4:16 My ability to love at all is because He first loved me. 1 John 4:19

The first object of my God-given ability to love is God Himself. I love Him and offer my entire life to Him as a fitting sacrifice. Romans 12:1 His call on my life is to express my love for Him by obeying His commands. John 14:15 Maybe that's "my part." God also asks me to show my love for him by living in love and pouring it out on those around me. 1 John 4

Going through those basic standards for followers of Jesus reminds me how inconsistent I really am in my spiritual life. I had to face it with my knee, that I simply can't keep up with what's before me if I'm not healthy. I want to face it in my spiritual life as well, I simply can't keep up with what's before me if I'm not healthy.

Thank you, Lord, for the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the view from your perspective. My heart is the thing that's most important to you. I need and want to guard it consistently. Thank you, Father, that even this is your work. Zechariah 4:6

Parable of the Knee, Glimpse #2

2007-08-29T08:44:00.000-04:00

Well, I had a week off and now I'm a couple of days late this week. What does that say about my reliability? It says that I'm not perfect. Isn't that a wonderful thing to recognize. Being less than perfect means that I'm not capable of satisfying God's requirement for the blood of a perfect lamb to be shed for the forgiveness of sin. Hebrews 9:22 There's no sense forcing myself through hoops in an attempt to accomplish that task because I'm simply not able to meet the standard. What a relief!

And yet the price must be paid for my sin before I can come into the presence of the One True and Holy God. Thank you, Father, for having that problem solved way before I ever saw the need. Christ, God's only Son, gave Himself as the sacrificial Lamb whose perfect blood atones for the sin of the world. The Messiah's willingness to yield to the Father's plan of reconciliation on a day and time in history resulted in redemption for my soul. What a glorious truth to embrace!

This week's Glimpse is about what God is showing me as I look back on the eight - 8 - VIII - count them XXXXXXXX - months I limped and struggled along before seeking medical attention for my injured knee. Yes, my mobility was seriously impaired and there was a fair amount of pain involved, but my condition was up and down. I kept going because I thought (read that word 'hoped') the knee was getting better. After all, the body heals itself if you give it a rest, right? Okay, so limping but carrying on a busy schedule isn't exactly resting, but at least I was moving more slowly. It was pretty bad the week of our family retreat, but it didn't hurt at all when I was skiing. :-)

As I look back I realize that even though I was going about my normal routine, my performance wasn't up to par. Frankly, I was off-balance everywhere I went and in every aspect of my life. I couldn't move with confidence because I was never sure if the knee would give out or if the pain would become too severe to continue. I couldn't trust the knee, my mobility, so I was never sure that I might not collapse. Yes, it took an emotional toll as well.

The comparison with my spiritual life is obvious. When I'm off-balance, not centered on God and His plan for my day, I can't move with confidence. When I rely on myself alone, I can't be sure if my own abilities will give out or the burden and stress will become too severe to continue. I can't trust my imperfect strengths, my abilities, so I can never be sure that I might not collapse. Yes, it took an emotional toll as well.

I did go about serving the Lord in this off-balanced way, but inconsistency and insecurity opened the door wide for, shall we say, unpleasant surprises. I know that my patience with myself suffered, so I have to assume that my treatment of others wasn't so good either. Looking back I am thankful that I know that God works all things together for good for those who love Him. Romans 8:28 I just wish I didn't contribute quite so many low performance days to the mix. As I look out over the lake and consider the changes I want to make, I've come to some conclusions:

I'm neither comfortable nor content living off-balance, especially spiritually.
I need/want my life to be built on who God is.
The more I learn about God from God, the more secure I am in God.
Though things happen that I may be unaware of or unprepared for, when I rest in God I walk into and through them with confidence. John 15
My heavenly Father's arms are wide and inviting, loving and all-sufficient.

Thank you, God, that though I am imperfect You appointed the Perfect Lamb to make the way for me to be with You today and for all eternity. John 3:16
Amen. Emmanuel

Parable of the Knee, Glimpse #1

2007-08-11T15:16:00.000-04:00

It's been a busy and trying week, but here I am writing the post for my blog. That means I'm three for three so far. Hallelujah!

This time of reflecting is a grand opportunity to remember who God is and who I am before Him. I'm actually very thankful for the assignment. Sitting on the deck looking out, I'm tempted to think of myself as having matured past the stage of being a 2X4 Christian. You know, the kind of believer that God needs to hit with a 2X4 stick of wood to get their attention. I'm being convinced through this knee experience that I've only progressed to the 2X2 level. :-)

Don't get me wrong, I know that trials are one way that God uses to get our attention. That's why I took inventory before Him early in this saga and He seemed to be telling me to carry on. You see, one of the first things folks started saying when they noticed my limp was, "God must be telling you to slow down." The funny thing was that, although I know I need to watch my tendency toward activity, God didn't seem to be communicating that message to me. Rather, what He seemed to be telling me at the outset was that there were specific lessons for me to learn, but that quitting and sitting at home was not the way to learn them.

I'm thankful for the folks who care about me and ask how I'm doing. My favorite friends are those who ask what they can do to lighten my load or help me get something done and off my plate. The truth is that although I do have things that only I can accomplish, there are lots of ways other people could support me with my To Do List. I'm only too happy to offer suggestions when asked, however, what I've noticed is that those who offer "spiritual" advice often speak more quickly than those who offer practical assistance.

While pondering this interesting dynamic, a few thoughts come to mind.

God knows me perfectly, inside and out. Psalm 139
God has a wonderful plan for my life. Jeremiah 29:11
God's love for me is perfect and He will lead me rightly. I need to trust God with my whole heart, even more than myself. Proverbs 3:5,6
God doesn't just have an idea of what I need. God knows for sure and He wants me to have it.
God will take me wherever I need to go to get my needs met, according to His riches in glory. That's where I want to be so I need to be listening closely to His counsel.

Along this line, I had an amazing conversation with a friend's mother today. She said she and her husband had been praying about their daughter being baptized. She's a believer and they felt it was the next logical step, but they didn't want to pressure her into such an important step. They know that it's a personal decision and want her to make it for the right reasons. So they turned to the best possible strategy. They prayed! James 5:16b

The mom told me that she wanted to bring it up several times over the last couple of weeks, but she sensed the Holy Spirit telling her to be quiet. Hah, the Lord worked in my friend's heart and she spoke to the pastor herself. With prayers and not a single word, the Holy Spirit met the desire or her parents' hearts and moved this young lady in paths of obedience. My friend will be baptized tomorrow!

I've come to some conclusions for Glimpse #1:

If you have someone you're concerned about for any reason, pray for them and tell them how you feel.

Offer whatever you have at your disposal to help them meet the challenges they face.

If they give you suggestions about how you can help, undertake them with energy and enthusiasm.

If they decline your offer of assistance, let them know you'll be there if they change their mind.

Continue to pray, trusting God to care for them and lead them by the power of His Holy Spirit.

Amen. Emmanuel

Parable of the Knee, Introduction

2007-08-07T07:53:00.000-04:00

God is an awesome God. He displays His infinite attributes all around us. We enjoy tastes of His majesty and creativity through the sunsets He delivers across our lake. Each one is an opportunity to rest, rejoice, and be overwhelmed by our Father God. These magnificent images never cease to draw me in this direction, yet God is also found in the more mundane details of life.

Jesus the Christ used the common things of this world to teach great truths about His and our Father. His parables are some of the most well-remembered and oft-repeated portions of the New Testament. When the Holy Spirit adds heavenly wisdom to simple objects, powerful lessons and divine insights pour forth. It is this type of in-depth view of God through the world around me that I want to pursue. I don't want to miss a single expression of my Father's love for me.

God is faithful and shows Himself to me in the big and little things of life. Sometimes He teaches me things in the oddest ways. Who would ever believe that a knee could speak volumes to a seeking soul? I would have scoffed at anyone who made such a statement as recently as six months ago. Now I know better. You see, last October while on vacation I twisted my knee while walking on a cobblestone street.

It wasn't such a bad sprain as sprains go. I could still get around and if nobody was looking let the grimaces show. By the time we got home I was able to move without any one being any the wiser - at least at first. Slowly I started to lose ground. The pain increased as did periods when I had to stay off my feet all together. By January I was in serious discomfort most of the time. Little did I know even then all that God would teach me through the intricate part of the body called the knee.

Over time I began to realize that the Holy Spirit was using the condition with my knee to draw my attention away from the activity around me - important as most of it was. As weeks and months have been unfolding, so have the lessons and insights He's been showing me. It's amazing what is often hiding just below the surface of what we see around us. Thankfully I've been making notes along the way.

My plan is to share my lessons with you at the rate of one a week, deo volente. I trust that those of you who are interested in my educational journey will ask the Lord to keep me faithful to that commitment. I look forward to spending some time with you opening up the awesomeness of God together. May He bless you richly!

Beginnings . . .

2007-07-31T22:44:00.000-04:00

are not always easy. They may be exciting, but they are usually a lot of work and are often scary. That's why it took so long for this beginning to happen.

After being nagged for several months, I am beginning this blog with the hope that I will be able to maintain it with some dignity. I hope you enjoy my entries. Let me know what you think.