I am a dreamer. My dreams are vivid and complicated. I love my dreams even if they are intense, or scary. God visits my dreams in subtle ways. The visions I see in my dreams bring to mind scriptures and that is how God speaks to me in my dreams. I seldom lose my dreams. The pictures usually remain sharp in my mind, but there are those few times when they are like vapor, dissolving in air before I can grasp their fullness. Losing my dream makes me feel frustrated. It is those lost dreams I hope I can revisit when I lay down again. They rarely come back though, and knowing that makes me sad. My heart misses the dream and longs for the message I sense was lost.
I am also a day dreamer. My mind wanders off with hope and faith by my side. I love my day dreams also. They do not always stick around for long, but they are always something to enjoy, hope for, and even talk over with my Heavenly Father. When day dreams fade I feel a deeper sense of loss. Maybe it is because my hope is greater that these dreams could be real. Whatever the reason, the fading of dreams will always draw me closer to my Father who has placed the desires and dreams in my heart.
Father, You are the author of my dreams. You are my hope. I love the hymn that says "Be Thou my vision....." I pray that today. I need You to be my vision, my hope, and my dreams.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Standing Watch Continued
Yesterday I told you about my friend who is taking his last steps here on earth and slowly drawing near to his eternal reward. I spoke yesterday about us standing watch while he travels his journey. I also mentioned that God understands because He stood watch as His Son, Jesus, took the journey. Today I am contemplating another aspect: Was there anyone else who stood watch for Jesus?
The answer is "Yes." There were many who stood watch while Jesus died. Scripture tells us there were people all around, but not all stood watch. Most of the people around the cross were there to mock or do their duty, making certain He died, that the order of execution was complete. Some were just passing by. There was also John, near Jesus' Mother, and other women who had followed Him and ministered to Him. Those were there to stand watch.
I've been asking myself what it means to stand watch. What is the purpose if we cannot change the course of matters? Is it for the dying or is it for the living who are being left behind? For me I think I must stand watch for both.
I stand watch in prayer for the one making the journey. He, like we all, need to know we have been loved. He needs to know he will be remembered. We all want that. We all want our lives to matter to others. Standing watch says, "Yes, you do matter to me!"
I stand in watch for those who are closest to the sojourner. Their loneliness is greatest as they watch their loved ones depart. They need the warmth of friends to stand nearby and to offer comfort. They also need to know their loved one was loved and will be remembered by others.
It takes courage, faith, hope, and great love to stand watch.
Father, Again I come to tell You that You are more than enough for us at times like these. You are our strength and hope. We can never fill all that our loved ones need at this time. Thank You for caring, understanding, and loving us through it all. Be with Will as he lets go of this world and all he loves in it. Be with Carol as she lets go of Will and all she loves about having him here with her! We trust You in all things.
The answer is "Yes." There were many who stood watch while Jesus died. Scripture tells us there were people all around, but not all stood watch. Most of the people around the cross were there to mock or do their duty, making certain He died, that the order of execution was complete. Some were just passing by. There was also John, near Jesus' Mother, and other women who had followed Him and ministered to Him. Those were there to stand watch.
I've been asking myself what it means to stand watch. What is the purpose if we cannot change the course of matters? Is it for the dying or is it for the living who are being left behind? For me I think I must stand watch for both.
I stand watch in prayer for the one making the journey. He, like we all, need to know we have been loved. He needs to know he will be remembered. We all want that. We all want our lives to matter to others. Standing watch says, "Yes, you do matter to me!"
I stand in watch for those who are closest to the sojourner. Their loneliness is greatest as they watch their loved ones depart. They need the warmth of friends to stand nearby and to offer comfort. They also need to know their loved one was loved and will be remembered by others.
It takes courage, faith, hope, and great love to stand watch.
Father, Again I come to tell You that You are more than enough for us at times like these. You are our strength and hope. We can never fill all that our loved ones need at this time. Thank You for caring, understanding, and loving us through it all. Be with Will as he lets go of this world and all he loves in it. Be with Carol as she lets go of Will and all she loves about having him here with her! We trust You in all things.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Standing Watch
A friend of mine is taking his last steps in this life and approaching the doorway of eternal life with Jesus Christ. His wife, family and friends are not able to help him take these last steps. We can only stand and watch.
It is comforting to know that God our Father understands the suffering of those who watch. He stood watch over His Son as He died on the cross. Because of this, prayer is the true comfort in these times. Talking it over with the Father brings comfort and hope.
Heavenly Father, You know this journey well. You have walked beside many who have trusted You. You are the comfort and hope we all need. Thank You for prayer, the way of connecting to You and all You can offer. Help my friend live his last moments here in peace. Help my friends who stand watching close to see Your hand upon their loved one. Let us all never forget Your Son who gives us hope to be together again. We trust You!
It is comforting to know that God our Father understands the suffering of those who watch. He stood watch over His Son as He died on the cross. Because of this, prayer is the true comfort in these times. Talking it over with the Father brings comfort and hope.
Heavenly Father, You know this journey well. You have walked beside many who have trusted You. You are the comfort and hope we all need. Thank You for prayer, the way of connecting to You and all You can offer. Help my friend live his last moments here in peace. Help my friends who stand watching close to see Your hand upon their loved one. Let us all never forget Your Son who gives us hope to be together again. We trust You!
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Substitute
A few years ago I was a substitute at a local high school. It was a tough job. Substitutes are handicapped. They do not know all the rules and the students take advantage whenever they are able. Subs are not seen as knowledgeable by some of the other teachers. Taking the place of someone else is uncomfortable.
Today I revisited that old job in a different setting. I substituted for a friend. She is beginning a new ministry and had set up a meeting. She had a very good reason for needing me to stand in for her today and I was glad to help, but it was a bit scary to be put into her place. Even though I have good knowledge of what she intends for her ministry, I do not have the deep passion that is in her heart. I think the attendees knew.
The meeting was not a disaster, however, and God showed up making the time a treasure. As always, God makes His substitute the right choice for the time. The ram caught in the bushes for Abraham's sacrifice, as well as Jesus, Gods' choice for us on the cross, were perfect substitutes. No, I didn't feel as if I was a sacrificial offering. I simply know that my time spent in my friends' shoes was right and ordained by God. Gods' entrance into any situation is a miracle substitution. There is no disappointment in Gods' choices.
The question I ask today is: Have you allowed God to choose a substitute for you? Is Jesus your stand in at the cross? Or have you substituted some other person or thing to take care of your need for salvation?
Father, You gave Yourself to the world in exchange for a way of salvation for those who would receive. Thank You for being the substitute for my sin. Thank You for being the best choice. Let me never forget Your sacrifice.
Today I revisited that old job in a different setting. I substituted for a friend. She is beginning a new ministry and had set up a meeting. She had a very good reason for needing me to stand in for her today and I was glad to help, but it was a bit scary to be put into her place. Even though I have good knowledge of what she intends for her ministry, I do not have the deep passion that is in her heart. I think the attendees knew.
The meeting was not a disaster, however, and God showed up making the time a treasure. As always, God makes His substitute the right choice for the time. The ram caught in the bushes for Abraham's sacrifice, as well as Jesus, Gods' choice for us on the cross, were perfect substitutes. No, I didn't feel as if I was a sacrificial offering. I simply know that my time spent in my friends' shoes was right and ordained by God. Gods' entrance into any situation is a miracle substitution. There is no disappointment in Gods' choices.
The question I ask today is: Have you allowed God to choose a substitute for you? Is Jesus your stand in at the cross? Or have you substituted some other person or thing to take care of your need for salvation?
Father, You gave Yourself to the world in exchange for a way of salvation for those who would receive. Thank You for being the substitute for my sin. Thank You for being the best choice. Let me never forget Your sacrifice.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Lists
I have a long list of things needing to get done. As I cross off one it seems that two or three more show up! I like my lists. I like knowing what I need to do and what I've finished. They are a visual reminder that I am moving toward my goals.
Lists are not always complete. There are always surprises that come into my day that were not on any paper, or even in my thoughts! Sometimes those little surprises are from God, but they can also be from the enemy who would keep me from the tasks God has already given me. It is also true that some things I have put on my list are not things I should be spending my time doing. They may not be wrong, but they keep me from my purpose.
I find that I like lists for my Christian walk too. I want a list of dos and don'ts. I want to check up on what is right and wrong. Though I may like the Christian to-do list, I know that a relationship cannot be put on a list. If I put my marriage relationship on a list it might look like this:
1. Give Patrick a kiss upon waking up.
2. Make Patrick breakfast before he goes off to work.(He wouldn't eat it though)
3. Wash his clothes
4. Make his dinner
5. Smile when he comes in the door.
6. Give him time to unwind before sharing my day.
7. Snuggle with him on the couch watching the sports channel.
8. Kiss him goodnight.
Yes, it could be a lot longer and more detailed and include much more. I DON'T follow a list with my husband. I would become like a Stepford wife, or a robot wife. Relationships cannot be put into lists. The same is for my relationship with God.
In relationship we may share our lists of likes and dislikes, but then it is love that draws us to make life lovely for the one we love by surprising them with their list being fulfilled. God does that for me! He often surprises me with something wonderful that is on my "I like that" list. Butterflies, sunsets brilliant with color, stars and moon light nights, new babies, friends and the love of a godly man. God loves me by giving even more than that which is on my list. He gave His Son! He knows me. He speaks to me. He disciplines me. No list can contain His love. I want to have love that cannot be contained on a list. How about you?
Lord God, Lover of my soul, You are beyond everything I could ever ask or dream! You gave us Your list of don'ts only to show us that we need You in our lives. You give us Yourself, and in that relationship You make the list disappear. I now only have love , not a list to look at. Thank You for loving me beyond the beyond! I give my love to You too!
Lists are not always complete. There are always surprises that come into my day that were not on any paper, or even in my thoughts! Sometimes those little surprises are from God, but they can also be from the enemy who would keep me from the tasks God has already given me. It is also true that some things I have put on my list are not things I should be spending my time doing. They may not be wrong, but they keep me from my purpose.
I find that I like lists for my Christian walk too. I want a list of dos and don'ts. I want to check up on what is right and wrong. Though I may like the Christian to-do list, I know that a relationship cannot be put on a list. If I put my marriage relationship on a list it might look like this:
1. Give Patrick a kiss upon waking up.
2. Make Patrick breakfast before he goes off to work.(He wouldn't eat it though)
3. Wash his clothes
4. Make his dinner
5. Smile when he comes in the door.
6. Give him time to unwind before sharing my day.
7. Snuggle with him on the couch watching the sports channel.
8. Kiss him goodnight.
Yes, it could be a lot longer and more detailed and include much more. I DON'T follow a list with my husband. I would become like a Stepford wife, or a robot wife. Relationships cannot be put into lists. The same is for my relationship with God.
In relationship we may share our lists of likes and dislikes, but then it is love that draws us to make life lovely for the one we love by surprising them with their list being fulfilled. God does that for me! He often surprises me with something wonderful that is on my "I like that" list. Butterflies, sunsets brilliant with color, stars and moon light nights, new babies, friends and the love of a godly man. God loves me by giving even more than that which is on my list. He gave His Son! He knows me. He speaks to me. He disciplines me. No list can contain His love. I want to have love that cannot be contained on a list. How about you?
Lord God, Lover of my soul, You are beyond everything I could ever ask or dream! You gave us Your list of don'ts only to show us that we need You in our lives. You give us Yourself, and in that relationship You make the list disappear. I now only have love , not a list to look at. Thank You for loving me beyond the beyond! I give my love to You too!
House Hunting
Today we began house hunting. It was fun, a little exciting, and yes, even a bit scary. Out of three houses, we liked one the best. I could see myself living there, and almost immediately, I began making plans as to where I could put my stuff. You may think I am ready to move....but wait. There are other things that must fall into place before we sign a contract. It is those things that are a bit nerve jostling and uncertain.
My Christian walk is somewhat like house hunting. I am looking for "...the city whose founder and builder is God." Hebs. 11:10. It is fun and exciting to catch glimpses of my heavenly home in scripture or sometimes even in the exquisite beauty of nature. It is also a bit overwhelming. I long to be there, and yet, I am not ready to be there. I have much to do before I enter my heavenly home and begin to explore the city of God.
For now, I'll settle for the wonderful adventure of house hunting here on earth. I know God's presence is with me. He will guide and lead me to the place where I can call home for just a little while. (P.S. I am following the lead of my Pastor John in saying that home for me is wherever my husband Patrick is and where God has lead us.)
Father, You are where I want to be. You are the presence in whom I long to dwell. My home here on earth pales to Your Glory. Thank You for giving Patrick and I the chance to explore new places. Thank You for leading us on a new adventure! Help us to hear Your voice and to be wise. Teach us to wait on You so that You will be glorified in the provision You give us! We trust You!
My Christian walk is somewhat like house hunting. I am looking for "...the city whose founder and builder is God." Hebs. 11:10. It is fun and exciting to catch glimpses of my heavenly home in scripture or sometimes even in the exquisite beauty of nature. It is also a bit overwhelming. I long to be there, and yet, I am not ready to be there. I have much to do before I enter my heavenly home and begin to explore the city of God.
For now, I'll settle for the wonderful adventure of house hunting here on earth. I know God's presence is with me. He will guide and lead me to the place where I can call home for just a little while. (P.S. I am following the lead of my Pastor John in saying that home for me is wherever my husband Patrick is and where God has lead us.)
Father, You are where I want to be. You are the presence in whom I long to dwell. My home here on earth pales to Your Glory. Thank You for giving Patrick and I the chance to explore new places. Thank You for leading us on a new adventure! Help us to hear Your voice and to be wise. Teach us to wait on You so that You will be glorified in the provision You give us! We trust You!
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Exercise
Ouch! Starting back into an exercise routine is hard and the muscles aches don't help much for keeping on track. I am learning that exercise is not just a body workout. My brain gets a workout too!
Getting started means I have to get my brain to say "Yes" to the workout. In order for that to happen it needs to jump over the hurdles of comfort, sweat, and those pesky aches. In the middle of the workout my thoughts may be telling me to give up. Most often they have an argument among themselves and the video personal trainer. Like a bouncing ball I jump through the list of hang in there cheers, prayers for it to go by quickly, and I hate the sweat in my eyes growls. After the cool down and stretch I again call on my mental faculties to remind me that this is good for me and I can do it all again tomorrow.
The workouts are changing my thinking and my body. I wonder if spiritual exercises do the same. The spiritual exercises of prayer, fellowship and scripture study (among others) change my thinking and can change my spirit. My body exercise may not turn me into a super model, but God has promised that I will grow more like His Son, Jesus, if I exercise my spirit. I guess my brain needs the most change since it needs to be exercised along with my body and my spirit!
Holy Spirit, You are alive and living in me! You have made me Your temple. I have not always cared for it as I should. Forgive me. Thank You for making a way for my mind to be renewed. Thank You for the promise that I can have the mind of Christ. Help me to exercise my thoughts to be like your thoughts. Give me strength of purpose and keep me moving so that I can do Your will.
Getting started means I have to get my brain to say "Yes" to the workout. In order for that to happen it needs to jump over the hurdles of comfort, sweat, and those pesky aches. In the middle of the workout my thoughts may be telling me to give up. Most often they have an argument among themselves and the video personal trainer. Like a bouncing ball I jump through the list of hang in there cheers, prayers for it to go by quickly, and I hate the sweat in my eyes growls. After the cool down and stretch I again call on my mental faculties to remind me that this is good for me and I can do it all again tomorrow.
The workouts are changing my thinking and my body. I wonder if spiritual exercises do the same. The spiritual exercises of prayer, fellowship and scripture study (among others) change my thinking and can change my spirit. My body exercise may not turn me into a super model, but God has promised that I will grow more like His Son, Jesus, if I exercise my spirit. I guess my brain needs the most change since it needs to be exercised along with my body and my spirit!
Holy Spirit, You are alive and living in me! You have made me Your temple. I have not always cared for it as I should. Forgive me. Thank You for making a way for my mind to be renewed. Thank You for the promise that I can have the mind of Christ. Help me to exercise my thoughts to be like your thoughts. Give me strength of purpose and keep me moving so that I can do Your will.
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