Thankfulness was a virtue my parents stressed in their parenting. They expected my siblings and I to express our gratitude to others. We were taught to say “Thank
you,” at appropriate times, write thank you cards for gifts, and remember to pray our
thanks to God. I remember hearing over and over the story of the ten lepers Jesus healed. The lesson was, that we should be like the one who expressed his thanks, not like the other nine.
The scriptures tell us about a time when ten lepers called out for mercy from
Jesus. They needed healing from the disease, that not only debilitated their bodies, but also took away their families, jobs, reputations, and everything that made them
worthwhile as people. Lepers were sent away from society to die. Their only hope was to be healed by God. When Jesus sent the ten to see the priests, they seemed hurried away before they even looked for the signs of healing. When they did see the evidence of being disease free, I am sure they all were very happy and thankful. We do not know for certain, but it is possible that all ten shouted praise to God. Only one, however, returned to thank Jesus personally.
I wonder if God still gets only one out of ten of His children coming back to
express their gratitude. Do I fall into those statistics in regards to giving a personal thank you for only ten percent of my blessings? Certainly, some blessings go unnoticed by me. Every day He moves on my behalf without my asking. Sometimes I may not see His hand directing the course of events. Even so, it seems to me that it might be wise to thank God for all I don’t see as well as for all the things I do see.
Dear Heavenly Father, You have been so very kind to me. You give me much
more than I ever ask. Your heart is big with generosity. Please forgive me for not
recognizing all Your gifts. Heal my blindness. Open my eyes to see You in my every day.
Thank You for it all.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Follow Me
"Follow me, Grommers!" Abi came searching for me. She wanted me to play with her. Her command was wreathed in a big grin, and as I stood to go with her, she bounced away saying over and over, "Follow me! Follow me, Grommers!"
Abi asks me to trail her everywhere; outside to play, dancing in the living room, or to the car for a ride to the store. She leads, and I tag along after that bouncing delightful imp. It is fun to follow her!
I think Jesus must have called His disciples with a smile. I can imagine Him say, "Follow Me," and then walk away with a spring in his step and an air of excitement for the adventure that lay ahead. No wonder they dropped everything to become His disciples. I don't think anyone would have kept in step with even Jesus, if He asked in solemn and serious tones. We Christians have proved that doesn't work!
Jesus knows the final destination is glorious happiness and joy for His followers. He leads us to a better place. Yes, He knows that the way will be difficult, but the final reward is worth it. That is why He asks us to follow him with joy! Can you see His smile at calling you to join him on the journey? I can!
Will you follow me? I am following Jesus. I am filled with excitement about the journey, because Jesus is with us in Spirit every step of the way. Let's go together! We can smile, laugh and maybe even cry, but always knowing that there are amazing things ahead!
Father, God, You sent Jesus to call us to follow Him back to You! I am excited to see You! You are so Good! Forgive me when I have not been the Christ-Follower that makes the trip back to You a delight for others. Thank You for spreading a path of joy before me when I see You in all things. Let my smile be a light for others to follow. Let them find You through me.
Abi asks me to trail her everywhere; outside to play, dancing in the living room, or to the car for a ride to the store. She leads, and I tag along after that bouncing delightful imp. It is fun to follow her!
I think Jesus must have called His disciples with a smile. I can imagine Him say, "Follow Me," and then walk away with a spring in his step and an air of excitement for the adventure that lay ahead. No wonder they dropped everything to become His disciples. I don't think anyone would have kept in step with even Jesus, if He asked in solemn and serious tones. We Christians have proved that doesn't work!
Jesus knows the final destination is glorious happiness and joy for His followers. He leads us to a better place. Yes, He knows that the way will be difficult, but the final reward is worth it. That is why He asks us to follow him with joy! Can you see His smile at calling you to join him on the journey? I can!
Will you follow me? I am following Jesus. I am filled with excitement about the journey, because Jesus is with us in Spirit every step of the way. Let's go together! We can smile, laugh and maybe even cry, but always knowing that there are amazing things ahead!
Father, God, You sent Jesus to call us to follow Him back to You! I am excited to see You! You are so Good! Forgive me when I have not been the Christ-Follower that makes the trip back to You a delight for others. Thank You for spreading a path of joy before me when I see You in all things. Let my smile be a light for others to follow. Let them find You through me.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Election Thoughts
I am convinced that our beloved country is running far away from its Christian roots. Yesterday's election was difficult. The polls prove that we are sharply divided in what direction we should take. The presidential winner proves that our country is aiming for a freedom without boundaries.
It is apparent to me that the men who are representing my country and my state have a different world view than I do. They believe the world should be a place where God might be tolerated (only if He is not the God of Christians), but He is not to direct us in any way. My world view is that God, our Creator, is much wiser and more capable than man to set up guidelines for our lives. It is through Him that good prevails. His Word is the foundation on which we should stand.
So what is a Christian to do? I believe that since our home is in heaven, and we are here for just a short time, we must do the work God has asked us to do. We must occupy, stand our ground, be good stewards and do our part to further the Kingdom of God through the Good News of Jesus Christ. Above all of that, we must love one another.
Today is another day in living my life in line with God's word, even when the rest of our country or world goes the other way.
Father God, You have annointed and appointed our President as either our leader to bring us closer to You, or to lead us further into judgement for our turning away from You. It is Your will that presides. We have been complacent in our standing firm for our country's foundation in Your word. Forgive us. Thank You for allowing us to live here in America! Thank You for our rights, privileges, and opportunities to influence through our vote. I pray that our voices will be heard even in our loss. I ask You to make a way for us to work together towards You.
It is apparent to me that the men who are representing my country and my state have a different world view than I do. They believe the world should be a place where God might be tolerated (only if He is not the God of Christians), but He is not to direct us in any way. My world view is that God, our Creator, is much wiser and more capable than man to set up guidelines for our lives. It is through Him that good prevails. His Word is the foundation on which we should stand.
So what is a Christian to do? I believe that since our home is in heaven, and we are here for just a short time, we must do the work God has asked us to do. We must occupy, stand our ground, be good stewards and do our part to further the Kingdom of God through the Good News of Jesus Christ. Above all of that, we must love one another.
Today is another day in living my life in line with God's word, even when the rest of our country or world goes the other way.
Father God, You have annointed and appointed our President as either our leader to bring us closer to You, or to lead us further into judgement for our turning away from You. It is Your will that presides. We have been complacent in our standing firm for our country's foundation in Your word. Forgive us. Thank You for allowing us to live here in America! Thank You for our rights, privileges, and opportunities to influence through our vote. I pray that our voices will be heard even in our loss. I ask You to make a way for us to work together towards You.
Friday, November 2, 2012
A Sign of Thanks
O give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; For His loving kindness is everlasting.
1 Chronicles 16:34
“We cannot bless God without Him first blessing us.” Unknown (maybe Spurgeon)
My Grandlady, Abi, sends her Mom off to work each day with three kisses blown from her tiny fingertips. In the evening, she leaves with three kisses blown towards me. It is a precious moment of showing love and a special connection we have with her.
When I worship my Savior, one of my favorite signs is the one for “Thank You.” It is a simple movement, like blowing someone a kiss. My voice speaks the words or my mind thinks the thought of the goodness and wonder of our Lord. My fingertips touch my lips and then reach out to the heavens. In this simple movement my gratitude is deepened.My prayer of thanksgiving is sent to the Father on the wings of a kiss.
Interpreting praise and worship songs through sign language and movement gives me a greater sense of being in the presence of God and communicating with Him in a personal way. Someone once told me that it was like dancing before the Lord. It is a
joyful expression of what is in my heart as I sing words extolling His praise.
Goodness reaches down to me through the touch of my Heavenly Father. My sign of thanks reaches toward heaven and the nail scarred hand of my Savior. Thanksgiving has connected my heart to God.
Father God, You are high and lifted up! You are the King and deserving of my heart-filled gratitude spoken in praise. I send my thanks for Your goodness born on the wings of a kiss and fingertips reaching out to You alone.
By Carolynn J. Scully @2012
1 Chronicles 16:34
“We cannot bless God without Him first blessing us.” Unknown (maybe Spurgeon)
My Grandlady, Abi, sends her Mom off to work each day with three kisses blown from her tiny fingertips. In the evening, she leaves with three kisses blown towards me. It is a precious moment of showing love and a special connection we have with her.
When I worship my Savior, one of my favorite signs is the one for “Thank You.” It is a simple movement, like blowing someone a kiss. My voice speaks the words or my mind thinks the thought of the goodness and wonder of our Lord. My fingertips touch my lips and then reach out to the heavens. In this simple movement my gratitude is deepened.My prayer of thanksgiving is sent to the Father on the wings of a kiss.
Interpreting praise and worship songs through sign language and movement gives me a greater sense of being in the presence of God and communicating with Him in a personal way. Someone once told me that it was like dancing before the Lord. It is a
joyful expression of what is in my heart as I sing words extolling His praise.
Goodness reaches down to me through the touch of my Heavenly Father. My sign of thanks reaches toward heaven and the nail scarred hand of my Savior. Thanksgiving has connected my heart to God.
Father God, You are high and lifted up! You are the King and deserving of my heart-filled gratitude spoken in praise. I send my thanks for Your goodness born on the wings of a kiss and fingertips reaching out to You alone.
By Carolynn J. Scully @2012
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Looking Past the Politics
I have been watching political ads, debates, and news reports for months. I think my blood pressure rises with each barb thrown. If possible I avoid the bias of the ads and news reports. In the debates I want to believe that under the words being said there is subtace and a guide for the direction our beloved country is heading. I am not certain that I have found it.
I know the name of the person I will mark on my ballot, but I cannot say I really know the man and how he will govern. I can only decide from his past actions and consistent words. I would hope all voters will do the same
My greatest stress with election politics, however, comes not from the candidates but from Facebook and email friends who villify every detail of the opponent of their chosen hero. The anger, name calling, and finger pointing is creating a divide that will be difficult to cross when we need to come together.
It is my opinion that we the people cannot save our country from destruction by casting a vote. We must look to a higher power, the One to whom the Founding Fathers turned when building the foundation of our government. The person who wins the election is not to be our king. He is a servant appointed by God through the will of the people to lead us into judgement or freedom from bondage.
In light of my convictions about our country and this election, I have decided to look first at my self. Am I turned towards God and His will for my life? Am I an obedient servant of the Most High God and His truth revealed in scripture? Will I stand firm for God's way of living over my selfish desires? Will I vote for God's annointed and appointed one whoever that might be? Will I accept the results with gratitude? I cannot predict the future, but I know the One who holds it in His hands. My vote will be made with a prayer on my lips and my Father God as my focus.
Father Eternal, You are Wise, All-knowing, and All-powerful. You alone hold the keys to our future as a people founded on Your truth. Forgive us for turning our backs on You and believing that we are in control of our destiny. Thank You for the foundations on which our much loved country was founded. Thank you for men and women who are willing to serve as leaders, defenders and visionaries for "We the people." I bow my knee to You and ask that Your will be done.
I know the name of the person I will mark on my ballot, but I cannot say I really know the man and how he will govern. I can only decide from his past actions and consistent words. I would hope all voters will do the same
My greatest stress with election politics, however, comes not from the candidates but from Facebook and email friends who villify every detail of the opponent of their chosen hero. The anger, name calling, and finger pointing is creating a divide that will be difficult to cross when we need to come together.
It is my opinion that we the people cannot save our country from destruction by casting a vote. We must look to a higher power, the One to whom the Founding Fathers turned when building the foundation of our government. The person who wins the election is not to be our king. He is a servant appointed by God through the will of the people to lead us into judgement or freedom from bondage.
In light of my convictions about our country and this election, I have decided to look first at my self. Am I turned towards God and His will for my life? Am I an obedient servant of the Most High God and His truth revealed in scripture? Will I stand firm for God's way of living over my selfish desires? Will I vote for God's annointed and appointed one whoever that might be? Will I accept the results with gratitude? I cannot predict the future, but I know the One who holds it in His hands. My vote will be made with a prayer on my lips and my Father God as my focus.
Father Eternal, You are Wise, All-knowing, and All-powerful. You alone hold the keys to our future as a people founded on Your truth. Forgive us for turning our backs on You and believing that we are in control of our destiny. Thank You for the foundations on which our much loved country was founded. Thank you for men and women who are willing to serve as leaders, defenders and visionaries for "We the people." I bow my knee to You and ask that Your will be done.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Kneeling on the Inside
Sunday I had the privilege of praying with a Mom whose thyroid cancer has returned. She asked me and my daughter, who is her friend, to join in prayer as the elders of the church prayed and anointed her. After her explanation of what she faced, I got on my knees to pray.
My age may make people think it would be hard to kneel in prayer, but it really is not a difficulty for me. It is harder for me to get up from that position. In fact sitting, kneeling or lying on the floor only becomes a problem when it is time to lift myself up to a stand. Pulling myself up after the prayer for my daughter's friend, I noticed the difference and began to ponder. I sought to dig deeper.
One of the thoughts that came to me was how different I feel when I lower myself to the floor now that I am older, than what I have felt in the past. I have not enjoyed lowering myself. It is true that I have had a prideful spirit many times and humbling myself in any way was a struggle for me. But things have changed. Age has brought experience and maybe just a little understanding of who I am and who I am not! It is okay now for the joke to me on me or about me at times. I even tell on myself sometimes!
I came to ponder the idea that my inner kneeling and humbling myself is making it much easier for me to physically get down, and harder for me to lift myself up. Maybe it has little to do with creaking joints or slower awkward movements. Just maybe it has everything to do with knowing that I am dust and I will return to dust. I am but a breath and will be gone as quickly as I come. I only have worth when I huimble myself before my Heavenly Father, bowing to Him and letting HIM lift me up.
Someday, every knee will bow and every tongue will confees that Jesus Christ is Lord (from Phil. 2:10-11)
God, my Father, You are my King and to You I bow. I, too often, rise up with pride and arrogance toward You and the people You have created. Forgive me for not being truthful in who I am. Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, to lift me up out of the darkness of my sin. It is when I accept His help then I am able to sit humbly at Your feet, bow before You, and relinquish all my pride. I continue to ask You to reveal Yourself to me and teach me truth. In all things You are Good, You are worthy!
My age may make people think it would be hard to kneel in prayer, but it really is not a difficulty for me. It is harder for me to get up from that position. In fact sitting, kneeling or lying on the floor only becomes a problem when it is time to lift myself up to a stand. Pulling myself up after the prayer for my daughter's friend, I noticed the difference and began to ponder. I sought to dig deeper.
One of the thoughts that came to me was how different I feel when I lower myself to the floor now that I am older, than what I have felt in the past. I have not enjoyed lowering myself. It is true that I have had a prideful spirit many times and humbling myself in any way was a struggle for me. But things have changed. Age has brought experience and maybe just a little understanding of who I am and who I am not! It is okay now for the joke to me on me or about me at times. I even tell on myself sometimes!
I came to ponder the idea that my inner kneeling and humbling myself is making it much easier for me to physically get down, and harder for me to lift myself up. Maybe it has little to do with creaking joints or slower awkward movements. Just maybe it has everything to do with knowing that I am dust and I will return to dust. I am but a breath and will be gone as quickly as I come. I only have worth when I huimble myself before my Heavenly Father, bowing to Him and letting HIM lift me up.
Someday, every knee will bow and every tongue will confees that Jesus Christ is Lord (from Phil. 2:10-11)
God, my Father, You are my King and to You I bow. I, too often, rise up with pride and arrogance toward You and the people You have created. Forgive me for not being truthful in who I am. Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus, to lift me up out of the darkness of my sin. It is when I accept His help then I am able to sit humbly at Your feet, bow before You, and relinquish all my pride. I continue to ask You to reveal Yourself to me and teach me truth. In all things You are Good, You are worthy!
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Sin
A few weeks ago I was invited to join an online forum for spiritual writers. Because of who invited me I accepted the offer.
My first encounter with the group was a discussion, or I could say argument, about the homosexual issue. One side was defending all people to have the right to do as they pleased, and the other side spoke against the practice of same sex unions as sin. The statement that made me take note was that sin is what we ourselves decide to call sin.
I have tried my best to stay out of conversations such as these unless God nudges me or pushes hard for me to speak up for Him. At these times I want desperately to remember that God loves all sinners enough to go the full distance to bring them back into right relationship with Him.I want to lovingly speak the truth from God's word. I do not want to twist it, nor do I want to use it as a weapon for my own purposes. It is not an easy prospect.
My first thought was that sin is not determined by men (or women). It is against God first and affects people. Joseph, in Genesis 39:9, when Potiphar's wife approached him inappropriately, countered her by saying about his master, "He is not greater in this house than I am, nor has he kept back anything from me except yourself, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?" (ESV) It would seem the betrayal would be against Potiphar, but Joseph recognized that sin is against God.
We all know, deep down, what is right and what is wrong according to God. We often try to choose our own way, our own law to go by, but to do so is defiance against the Creator and Judge over us.
Sin. It is not ours to decide. Our legalization of any choices in which we want to engage, can never be okay as long as God says differently. From my understanding His word remains firm on sin. That is why He sent a Savior. We need Him!
Savior and Judge of all sin, You are Holy. You are Pure. You are Immutable. Forgive us our many sins, including those which we try to hide behind our legalizations. Thank You for making a way for us to be set free from the oppression of sin. Open our hearts to Your ways. Reveal the truth to us. Protect us from the deceiver and our own deceptive hearts. Free us!
My first encounter with the group was a discussion, or I could say argument, about the homosexual issue. One side was defending all people to have the right to do as they pleased, and the other side spoke against the practice of same sex unions as sin. The statement that made me take note was that sin is what we ourselves decide to call sin.
I have tried my best to stay out of conversations such as these unless God nudges me or pushes hard for me to speak up for Him. At these times I want desperately to remember that God loves all sinners enough to go the full distance to bring them back into right relationship with Him.I want to lovingly speak the truth from God's word. I do not want to twist it, nor do I want to use it as a weapon for my own purposes. It is not an easy prospect.
My first thought was that sin is not determined by men (or women). It is against God first and affects people. Joseph, in Genesis 39:9, when Potiphar's wife approached him inappropriately, countered her by saying about his master, "He is not greater in this house than I am, nor has he kept back anything from me except yourself, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?" (ESV) It would seem the betrayal would be against Potiphar, but Joseph recognized that sin is against God.
We all know, deep down, what is right and what is wrong according to God. We often try to choose our own way, our own law to go by, but to do so is defiance against the Creator and Judge over us.
Sin. It is not ours to decide. Our legalization of any choices in which we want to engage, can never be okay as long as God says differently. From my understanding His word remains firm on sin. That is why He sent a Savior. We need Him!
Savior and Judge of all sin, You are Holy. You are Pure. You are Immutable. Forgive us our many sins, including those which we try to hide behind our legalizations. Thank You for making a way for us to be set free from the oppression of sin. Open our hearts to Your ways. Reveal the truth to us. Protect us from the deceiver and our own deceptive hearts. Free us!
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