This morning I have been wondering when I last laughed out loud. Since I can't readily remember, I figure it is time to look for a laughing moment. To be honest, I am not looking for a little TeeHee or even a short HaHa moment. I want my next laugh to be a belly filled squeeze that makes my eyes leak and maybe get me close to wetting my pants!
In the past I've laughed like that over little bitty things. Sometimes it is something I say that made no sense or came out wrong. Sometimes it is someone else who has let go with just that little bit off kilter trivia that suddenly tickles me deep inside. It is always a surprise! It is those little things that can open up the lid with which I've kept my emotions in check. It is time to pop it off and give my tummy a workout, squeezing all the bottled up worries, confusion and fears out and fill me up with the simple pleasure of laughter.
I have a picture of Jesus laughing. It is an inspiration to me because thinking of Him enjoying a good laugh lets me know there is joy in this crazy mixed up world. Jesus came into the world to do serious business. He wept many times. I'd like to think He also laughed much! What do you think He laughed about?
Did Jesus laugh with the little children? Maybe the disciples disapproved of the children coming to Him because they were too serious minded to see the benefit of laughter. Did Jesus laugh at the wedding feast and maybe even chuckle at His mommas' request for help? Did Jesus laugh at dinner with Zacheus and his tax collector friends? In what does Jesus find delight? Does He laugh with me over the silly things I do? Well, maybe He just laughs. I can be too serious about my little missteps most of the time. :o) I think I'll read one of the Gospels and look for times when Jesus could have laughed.
Jesus, You are a Joyful Spirit. You are the fullness of Joy! Your joy gives me strength! I am too serious sometimes, Lord. I know there are times I must be sober, but these days are overwhelmingly trying and I see light in Your laughter! I want to run to You and be engulfed in your pleasure and Your joy! Thank you for filling me with good things. I pray that I will soon be surprised by Your deep joy that squeezes me to the point of tears! Would You let me share it with someone too? That will double my lasting happiness!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Monday, October 11, 2010
Good News!
Have you heard the Good News? In this world we seldom hear good news, but there is Good News to be heard. We can even join in the experience of it on a daily basis!
Problems surround us. We wrestle with our finances, relationships, and all sort of other issues. The world seems to have turned wrong side up. Many people have embraced evil and call it good, shunning good and calling it evil. Within our own hearts we do, think and say things we do not want to do. God seems so far away! The truth is that there is separation between us and God, but He does not desire for us to be wrapped up in this place so far from His love and care. There is hope.
The solution was given long ago. God, Himself, loved us all so very much that He became a man. He alone could cross the chasm of sin that separated us from Himself. He crossed over in to our world and then died on a cross so that we could cross over into His presence! He did it all out of love for you, and me! Though He paid a price, He asks for no payment from us.
His free gift is held out to all. He wants so much for us to reach out and take it. He gives us free access to Him and all He has for us. What would you do to gain this free gift? Would you believe in its goodness and trust the giver? What would you say if I told you that is all it takes?
Why is it so hard to take a free gift from a good God? Maybe because we don't believe it is really free. But it is! I have to admit that religious people have made long list of what we must do to cross over into the heavenly world God has prepared for us. Once we choose this gift we fear that we must follow a long list of stringent rules that make this world near impossible to enjoy. Foolish notions like this are not from God.
Our free gift from God is unhampered relationship with Him! In that relationship we continue to have freedom to choose His riches of a life lived with joy and free from bondage, or remain stuck in our chains and blinded to the true beauty of life. In relationship with God we have access to the best ways to deal with the problems of this world. We are free to take His advice or live with the consequences.
I pray that this blog might reach one or more that are searching for that cross over place. Is that person you? Are you ready to hear and be a part of the Good News?
Father, You have proven Your love for us! You have done all that needs to be done so that we can live in Your presence, not only after we die, but now as we travel this world. You call us to take the first step to You. It takes faith. We must believe in Your goodness and Your free gift. I pray, Lord, that someone reading this will come to know You, by receiving Your gift of life. I pray that this day will be their beginning. Thank You for the cross. Thank You for Your love. Thank You for Your free gift.
Problems surround us. We wrestle with our finances, relationships, and all sort of other issues. The world seems to have turned wrong side up. Many people have embraced evil and call it good, shunning good and calling it evil. Within our own hearts we do, think and say things we do not want to do. God seems so far away! The truth is that there is separation between us and God, but He does not desire for us to be wrapped up in this place so far from His love and care. There is hope.
The solution was given long ago. God, Himself, loved us all so very much that He became a man. He alone could cross the chasm of sin that separated us from Himself. He crossed over in to our world and then died on a cross so that we could cross over into His presence! He did it all out of love for you, and me! Though He paid a price, He asks for no payment from us.
His free gift is held out to all. He wants so much for us to reach out and take it. He gives us free access to Him and all He has for us. What would you do to gain this free gift? Would you believe in its goodness and trust the giver? What would you say if I told you that is all it takes?
Why is it so hard to take a free gift from a good God? Maybe because we don't believe it is really free. But it is! I have to admit that religious people have made long list of what we must do to cross over into the heavenly world God has prepared for us. Once we choose this gift we fear that we must follow a long list of stringent rules that make this world near impossible to enjoy. Foolish notions like this are not from God.
Our free gift from God is unhampered relationship with Him! In that relationship we continue to have freedom to choose His riches of a life lived with joy and free from bondage, or remain stuck in our chains and blinded to the true beauty of life. In relationship with God we have access to the best ways to deal with the problems of this world. We are free to take His advice or live with the consequences.
I pray that this blog might reach one or more that are searching for that cross over place. Is that person you? Are you ready to hear and be a part of the Good News?
Father, You have proven Your love for us! You have done all that needs to be done so that we can live in Your presence, not only after we die, but now as we travel this world. You call us to take the first step to You. It takes faith. We must believe in Your goodness and Your free gift. I pray, Lord, that someone reading this will come to know You, by receiving Your gift of life. I pray that this day will be their beginning. Thank You for the cross. Thank You for Your love. Thank You for Your free gift.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Abundant Life
What is abundant life? According to the Websters New World Dictionary, abundant means very plentiful; more than sufficient; ample. It also means well-supplied; rich. So, again I ask what is abundant life?
Is there more than one choice: the choice of life or death? God says we can have abundant life and so there must be more than just living. Life is a precious gift. Jesus offers us the gift of a choice to live abundantly or deficient. The abundance comes from relationship with Him. If we choose not to have relationship with Him, we live a less than sufficient life.
There are times when I walk through a valley of emotions. I struggle with life issues and stumble over thoughts that push me down. In those times, I must make an extra effort to open my life to Jesus. Patrick and I go through those tough places too. When we do, it is our choice to reach out to one another and to take time to be together in relationship. Jesus is my Bridegroom for eternity. His promise to me has always been more than just an ordinary life. Tough times can bring depth and fullness just as much as the mountain top experiences.
Jesus, Lover of my soul, You alone supply abundantly the life I long for! You give me riches even in the valleys. I am so sorry that I grumble and complain about those long hard days and nights! Please forgive me. Thank You for making all things work out for my good!
Is there more than one choice: the choice of life or death? God says we can have abundant life and so there must be more than just living. Life is a precious gift. Jesus offers us the gift of a choice to live abundantly or deficient. The abundance comes from relationship with Him. If we choose not to have relationship with Him, we live a less than sufficient life.
There are times when I walk through a valley of emotions. I struggle with life issues and stumble over thoughts that push me down. In those times, I must make an extra effort to open my life to Jesus. Patrick and I go through those tough places too. When we do, it is our choice to reach out to one another and to take time to be together in relationship. Jesus is my Bridegroom for eternity. His promise to me has always been more than just an ordinary life. Tough times can bring depth and fullness just as much as the mountain top experiences.
Jesus, Lover of my soul, You alone supply abundantly the life I long for! You give me riches even in the valleys. I am so sorry that I grumble and complain about those long hard days and nights! Please forgive me. Thank You for making all things work out for my good!
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Perfected Government
Political ads are filling the tv screen, mail box and even our phone lines. Many are not aimed at the issues, nor at the candidates' own ideas about the issues. They are mud balls slung at the opponent to make sure the voters see them as a better choice. I imagine they believe that the one with the least mud will win.
Politics isn't much different than playground spats. Children who want to feel important tend to tattle, gossip and make known anything to bring down the classmate they imagine has more popularity or brains. Sadly we have not learned much since our playground days.
Voters watching the melee must decide who would be best to lead and guide our country. Do we really want to get what we see? How do we stop this cycle and demand a more sane campaign? Will we find a way to change for the better? Probably not. We will continue to do what works and what works is the truth or lies being used as a punch at the other side. Don't get me wrong, I want to know the truth before I vote and sometimes the opponent needs to make the truth known, because the other guy certainly won't tell you his past mistakes, not willingly anyway.
If we want honest politicians don't we want them to be honest about their strengths and their failures? That is risky politics isn't it? I think I would be inclined to trust a person running for office who was forthright in who he is and what he will bring to the governmental process. I would also know where he/she would need to be made accountable. As for now, who do I believe, those who have the most muddied campaign or those who have thrown the most mud?
Perfection only lies in God. If we seek to find a perfect match for our side of the issues we will surely fall into the mud with them. Maybe the best way to look at the ballot is to look first at our own truth. What are our strengths and weaknesses? If we can be truthful in ourselves maybe we can see the truth that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. We will not find perfection in the polling booth. Our hope is in God. He is our perfect governor! If we are governed by Him and His laws we will find freedom!
We MUST VOTE. The important point is that we must vote with honor and integrity knowing that we too are sinners and our leaders are fallen too.
God Almighty You are the perfect Governor, Senator, President, Mayor, etc. You have given me the freedom to choose You as my Lord. You are the only one I can trust to lead with perfection. I am blinded in my choices and so I ask You to reveal what I need to see. I ask You to be in my voting booth and direct my vote in truth and wisdom. Thank You for letting me live in this wonderful country that was founded on the freedom You have given every person. Help me to be Your light.
Politics isn't much different than playground spats. Children who want to feel important tend to tattle, gossip and make known anything to bring down the classmate they imagine has more popularity or brains. Sadly we have not learned much since our playground days.
Voters watching the melee must decide who would be best to lead and guide our country. Do we really want to get what we see? How do we stop this cycle and demand a more sane campaign? Will we find a way to change for the better? Probably not. We will continue to do what works and what works is the truth or lies being used as a punch at the other side. Don't get me wrong, I want to know the truth before I vote and sometimes the opponent needs to make the truth known, because the other guy certainly won't tell you his past mistakes, not willingly anyway.
If we want honest politicians don't we want them to be honest about their strengths and their failures? That is risky politics isn't it? I think I would be inclined to trust a person running for office who was forthright in who he is and what he will bring to the governmental process. I would also know where he/she would need to be made accountable. As for now, who do I believe, those who have the most muddied campaign or those who have thrown the most mud?
Perfection only lies in God. If we seek to find a perfect match for our side of the issues we will surely fall into the mud with them. Maybe the best way to look at the ballot is to look first at our own truth. What are our strengths and weaknesses? If we can be truthful in ourselves maybe we can see the truth that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. We will not find perfection in the polling booth. Our hope is in God. He is our perfect governor! If we are governed by Him and His laws we will find freedom!
We MUST VOTE. The important point is that we must vote with honor and integrity knowing that we too are sinners and our leaders are fallen too.
God Almighty You are the perfect Governor, Senator, President, Mayor, etc. You have given me the freedom to choose You as my Lord. You are the only one I can trust to lead with perfection. I am blinded in my choices and so I ask You to reveal what I need to see. I ask You to be in my voting booth and direct my vote in truth and wisdom. Thank You for letting me live in this wonderful country that was founded on the freedom You have given every person. Help me to be Your light.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Search Me, O God
Looking within my heart is tough. It is most difficult after I've been accused by the devil or someone I care about. It is tough to hear my failing from God, also, but He brings love and forgiveness along with His correction.
I've been searching through my relationships, my actions and my thoughts to see if there is any thing within me that goes against what I know to be true. I haven't liked everything I have seen. It makes me sad and I know repentance is the cure.
Some of the questions I have asked myself are:
* Am I being transparent and totally honest with myself, my husband, family, and friends?
* Am I being kind and loving in the honest communication I am involved in?
* Am I doing what I know I should ? Am I obedient to God in what He has revealed in His word and in His urgings throughout my day?
* Are my thoughts centered on the truth and what is good and pure? Am I choosing to forgive others and put them higher than myself?
There are more questions, but you get the idea. Tough questions. Sometimes the truth hurts. Sometimes I must confront myself more than I'd like to confront others!
My truth rests in God. He sheds light in the dark places of my heart. He reveals my failings only because He loves me. He is with me in the revelation, in the decision, in the repentance, and in the healing and restoration. Unlike those who would point accusing fingers, He opens His arms to welcome me into His embrace.
O Ancient of Days, You alone have the right to judge. You judge rightly! You are merciful, loving and faithful in Your judgements.You are truth! I fail so often along the way to the eternal home You have provided. I need Your presence to lead me into truth and to make me more like Your Son Jesus. Thank You for being God! Thank You for the power to overcome by the blood of The Lamb and the word of my testimony. I trust You! "Search me O God, and know my heart; Test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." (Psalm 139:23-24)
I've been searching through my relationships, my actions and my thoughts to see if there is any thing within me that goes against what I know to be true. I haven't liked everything I have seen. It makes me sad and I know repentance is the cure.
Some of the questions I have asked myself are:
* Am I being transparent and totally honest with myself, my husband, family, and friends?
* Am I being kind and loving in the honest communication I am involved in?
* Am I doing what I know I should ? Am I obedient to God in what He has revealed in His word and in His urgings throughout my day?
* Are my thoughts centered on the truth and what is good and pure? Am I choosing to forgive others and put them higher than myself?
There are more questions, but you get the idea. Tough questions. Sometimes the truth hurts. Sometimes I must confront myself more than I'd like to confront others!
My truth rests in God. He sheds light in the dark places of my heart. He reveals my failings only because He loves me. He is with me in the revelation, in the decision, in the repentance, and in the healing and restoration. Unlike those who would point accusing fingers, He opens His arms to welcome me into His embrace.
O Ancient of Days, You alone have the right to judge. You judge rightly! You are merciful, loving and faithful in Your judgements.You are truth! I fail so often along the way to the eternal home You have provided. I need Your presence to lead me into truth and to make me more like Your Son Jesus. Thank You for being God! Thank You for the power to overcome by the blood of The Lamb and the word of my testimony. I trust You! "Search me O God, and know my heart; Test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." (Psalm 139:23-24)
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Life Long Battle
One week ago today, my daughter, Briget, was in labor to give birth to her first child, my fifth grandchild. Abigail Grace was born after a grueling labor and a c-section delivery. I watched the battle from the early stages. I entered the arena several times always leaving with more determination to pray and support this new Mommy and Daddy and their child as they fought for life.
God offers us a choice of life or death and He entreats us to choose life! He is the giver of life and desperately wants us to embrace its fullness. However, we do have an enemy who would deceive and discourage us from accepting the life given by God. It becomes a life-long battle to hold on to life and life abundant!
Not all battles are won with a perfect plan that is perfectly executed. Abigail needed intervention in order to enter this world with the least of complications. There have also been other battles that raged over the last week. Our sons' wife, Laura, battled an infection and won with the help of antibiotics. A miracle brought our pastors' daughter safe , though bruised, from a severe car accident. We know that more war needs to be waged in the upcoming months when my husband returns to the operating room to fix the knee that was supposed to be fixed last year. In all of our battles we must remember that God said the battle was His. The victory is ours, even if we may not see the present skirmish resolved as we desire.
Yesterdays' battles offer faith and courage for today. Each day has its own troubles. We can face this days' trials knowing that God is faithful. He will get us through, make something good come to us despite the wounds, and deliver the ultimate victory if we remain truly His.
This day we celebrate a new life joining our family tree. We take time to thank God that the one who steals, kills and destroys was bound. He may have taken some little pleasures but he will never steal life everlasting that Jesus gives. Abigail is healthy. Briget is mending, Jimmy is relieved! God is mighty and faithful and always good!
Almighty Father, You are the strength we need. You are our strong tower. We run to You and are safe! You have brought us through a storm because You are our protector and Savior! Thank You for Your love and watchful eye. We trust You to care for Your children in all ways. I pray we trust You for life and life abundant even through our wounds.
God offers us a choice of life or death and He entreats us to choose life! He is the giver of life and desperately wants us to embrace its fullness. However, we do have an enemy who would deceive and discourage us from accepting the life given by God. It becomes a life-long battle to hold on to life and life abundant!
Not all battles are won with a perfect plan that is perfectly executed. Abigail needed intervention in order to enter this world with the least of complications. There have also been other battles that raged over the last week. Our sons' wife, Laura, battled an infection and won with the help of antibiotics. A miracle brought our pastors' daughter safe , though bruised, from a severe car accident. We know that more war needs to be waged in the upcoming months when my husband returns to the operating room to fix the knee that was supposed to be fixed last year. In all of our battles we must remember that God said the battle was His. The victory is ours, even if we may not see the present skirmish resolved as we desire.
Yesterdays' battles offer faith and courage for today. Each day has its own troubles. We can face this days' trials knowing that God is faithful. He will get us through, make something good come to us despite the wounds, and deliver the ultimate victory if we remain truly His.
This day we celebrate a new life joining our family tree. We take time to thank God that the one who steals, kills and destroys was bound. He may have taken some little pleasures but he will never steal life everlasting that Jesus gives. Abigail is healthy. Briget is mending, Jimmy is relieved! God is mighty and faithful and always good!
Almighty Father, You are the strength we need. You are our strong tower. We run to You and are safe! You have brought us through a storm because You are our protector and Savior! Thank You for Your love and watchful eye. We trust You to care for Your children in all ways. I pray we trust You for life and life abundant even through our wounds.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Birthday Girl
Today is my #2 Gradlady's 9th birthday! Brooke is very excited for today, as any 9 year old would be. I have to admit that I am a bit happy and sad for her today.
I am happy that today she gets some little special treats. I am sad that all her big dreams for her birthday won't happen because of lack of money. I wish I could do more for her birthday, but the important thing is to make sure she knows how much she is loved!
The family is coming together to celebrate in ways that are unique and special to Brooke. A special dinner and treats go alongside the little gifts that say we love her. Even God is getting into the fun surprises!
Today as she walked to school with her friends. Two school buses passed by them. One was decorated with balloons and a sign saying "Happy Birthday." Grown ups can argue that it wasn't meant for her, but the child in me recognizes God's hand in giving her that special delight! God knew that a decorated bus would delight and make a fun memory for any child. That it came on her special day and as she walked to school was more than coincidence! God prepared a treat that would delight Brookes' heart! God loves her so much!
Brooke is a strong little girl. Determination, persistence, wit and insight are some of her character in which I take pleasure. Little girls learn quickly how to use their words to draw others in or push them away and Brooke is no exception. She loves the color pink. She loves gymnastics and winning! She will push herself even if others give her a way out. Brooke brings a new perspective to our family discussions, mostly with a humorous bent!
Brooke makes me smile and laugh at the harsh and dismal world. I am so glad she is my Grandlady#2!
Father, You have created a magnificent creature when You created Brooke! Her birth was a miracle. You have placed in her unique and amazing gifts and talents that are so fun to watch. You have generously given her to our family and we are ever so grateful! Having her live in our home for the last 8 years has not always been easy. Forgive me for overlooking the gift You gave. Thank You for teaching me through Brooke. Thank You for making her shine in my life, and showing me more of You! Bless her abundantly! I pray she will live a long and healthy life, know You completely as her Lord and Savior and walk with You all her days!
I am happy that today she gets some little special treats. I am sad that all her big dreams for her birthday won't happen because of lack of money. I wish I could do more for her birthday, but the important thing is to make sure she knows how much she is loved!
The family is coming together to celebrate in ways that are unique and special to Brooke. A special dinner and treats go alongside the little gifts that say we love her. Even God is getting into the fun surprises!
Today as she walked to school with her friends. Two school buses passed by them. One was decorated with balloons and a sign saying "Happy Birthday." Grown ups can argue that it wasn't meant for her, but the child in me recognizes God's hand in giving her that special delight! God knew that a decorated bus would delight and make a fun memory for any child. That it came on her special day and as she walked to school was more than coincidence! God prepared a treat that would delight Brookes' heart! God loves her so much!
Brooke is a strong little girl. Determination, persistence, wit and insight are some of her character in which I take pleasure. Little girls learn quickly how to use their words to draw others in or push them away and Brooke is no exception. She loves the color pink. She loves gymnastics and winning! She will push herself even if others give her a way out. Brooke brings a new perspective to our family discussions, mostly with a humorous bent!
Brooke makes me smile and laugh at the harsh and dismal world. I am so glad she is my Grandlady#2!
Father, You have created a magnificent creature when You created Brooke! Her birth was a miracle. You have placed in her unique and amazing gifts and talents that are so fun to watch. You have generously given her to our family and we are ever so grateful! Having her live in our home for the last 8 years has not always been easy. Forgive me for overlooking the gift You gave. Thank You for teaching me through Brooke. Thank You for making her shine in my life, and showing me more of You! Bless her abundantly! I pray she will live a long and healthy life, know You completely as her Lord and Savior and walk with You all her days!
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