Monday, September 30, 2013

Persevering With Hope

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character, and character, hope. Romans 5:3-4

    I don’t know if I will ever get to the point of being able to glory in my suffering. How about you? When a time of suffering has passed, we may be able to look back and see we have gained wisdom, knowledge, and an ability to identify with someone else’s pain. The best thing to come out of suffering is the intimacy we share with God, finding a way to turn to Him and learning to trust Him.

     Sometimes the perseverance part is the toughest part of suffering. Being patient when we don’t see results, or an answer or hope. We do the work, pray the prayer, do everything we think we should, and see absolutely nothing change.

     A friend of mine since kindergarten died almost exactly two years ago from a heart attack he suffered while he slept. He was a brilliant scientist for a pharmaceutical company in San Francisco. He devoted decades of his life to formulas that he knew may or may not ever work. Right after his death, the company signed a contract with Bristol Meyers, to develop possible cures for some major diseases.

     He never saw the results, but the seeds of his labor and his bio-chemist’s brain live on. God sees through His infinite eyes. We see in finite time frames. The year or month or days we spend waiting with perseverance are but a grain of sand to Him. He understands us, but He is God! His ways are nowhere near ours.

“For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."  Isaiah 55: 8-9

     Let Him take that persevering prayer and hold it until the timing is just right. Let Him use your suffering to bring about something good. Let Him use the small seeds you have planted to grow precious fruit in the years to come. Those hidden hopes in our hearts are honored by our God. Believe in His ways. Trust in Him. Allow our Savior, Jesus, to persevere right along with you. He has been there. He was tempted in every way. He suffered more than any of us combined. He knows. He understands. His ways and His thoughts are higher than our earthly understanding. Let your patient perseverance bring hope.

Dear Jesus,
We suffer. We persevere. We do what we need to do, a step at a time. You know how to use all of it for good. Our perseverance grows character and finally brings about hope. Our hope is in Your loving and capable hands.

Amen

Friday, September 27, 2013

A Word for the Weekend

Focus your attention on the words from the great love chapter in the Bible.  They are words to take in and live out. I hope you can spend this weekend with those you love.

If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy. It does not boast. It is not proud. It does not dishonor others. It is not self-seeking. It is not easily angered. It keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil, but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease, where there are tongues, they will be stilled, where there is knowledge, it will pass away. For we know in part and we prophecy in part, but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. When I was a child, I talked like a child; I thought like a child; I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. For now we see only a 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. And now these three remain; faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.  1 Corinthians 1-13

Hope, Faith and Love

     The veil of separation was lifted when Jesus died for our sins. We have the glory of God available and our high priest sits in heaven. We can go straight to the throne room with no hesitation. His glory can grow in us day by day, but His full glory will not be seen until we get to heaven. Read Paul’s Word about this:

For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror, then we will see face to face. Now I know in part, then I shall know fully even as I am fully known. 1 Corinthians 13:12


     Until then what matters? What is our purpose? How do we live? We know everything around us is temporary, but we want answers. We want a place, a date, a reason, a goal, a plan, a time, a vision. We ask who, what, where when and why? Paul sums up this beautiful love chapter of the first book of Corinthians the 13th chapter with these words:

And now these three remain; faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13

     Remember we always have our hope of salvation, guarding us forever. We can stand firmly on our faith in Christ no matter the circumstances. We don’t know the number of our days on earth, but we do know the answer to forever. When we get there in full glory and we see fully face-to-face, we won’t need hope. Our hopes will be realized. We will not need faith. He will be standing right in front of us, holding out His hand to welcome us home.  

     Finally, what will remain? Love will reamin; the love we shared on earth for Him. When all is said and done it’s about love.

Dear Jesus,
You represent our hope and faith, but most of all You represent love. You are the answer to all of our questions, the reason for it all, when all is said and done.

Amen

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Unveiled Faces

     Man cannot look upon the full glory of God and live. Moses had to wear a veil over his face after his encounter with God on Mount Sinai. We talked yesterday about the mammoth veil covering the Holy of Holies where the presence of God was held in Israel’s temple. That veil was torn from top to bottom as Jesus died on the cross.

     Our separation from God was removed by the blood of Jesus as He took our sin upon Himself on the cross. The Lamb of God, the King of Kings, the Word of God became flesh and lived among us. (John 1) We picture Jesus as He was when he lived on earth for those 33 years. Now He sits at the right hand of the Father in full glory. One day we will see Him face to face as Messiah, the Christ.

     In the meantime, the veil has been removed!  Jesus now resides in a new temple, the temple of our hearts. His Holy Spirit lives within us! Imagine that. Here are more New Testament verses explaining the significance of the veil.

Even to this day, when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts. But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory are being transformed into His image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.  2 Corinthians 3:15-18

     I love that last verse. Our hearts are no longer veiled. We know the truth of Jesus and His Holy Spirit continually changes us into the image of Christ! We will be filled with ever-increasing glory as He transforms us day by day. I believe that. As we continue to read the Word of God, pray to the One now sitting in glory and listen to the guiding of the Holy Spirit, we are changed, miraculously changed.

     Look up with that unveiled face today and radiate with the glory of God!

Dear Jesus,
We thank you for removing the veil from our hearts. We won’t see Your full glory until we are in heaven, but each day fill us a little bit more with Your light.

Amen 

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

The Veil

     The Jewish Temple was built in accordance to God’s very specific instructions. The Holy of Holies was the inner sanctum of the temple. This Holy Place contained the presence of God and only the high priest could enter it once a year on the Day of Atonement or Yom Kippur. (Exodus 30, Hebrews 9) A veil covered the entrance to the Holy of Holies.

     This particular veil (or curtain) was no ordinary veil. It measured around 60 feet high and was at least 4 inches thick! It was beautifully made in twisted fine linen, made with purple, blue and scarlet material. This veil signified the separation between God and man. It signified sin.

     Now picture this mammoth veil and try to imagine what happened as Jesus died on the cross:

And when Jesus had cried out again, in a loud voice, He gave up His spirit. At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom… Matthew 27:50-51a

     This was the final atonement for sin. There was now no need for the veil! The separation between God and man was paid for, once and for all, by God Himself.  Solomon’s temple and Herod’s temple have both been destroyed and are long gone, the last having been destroyed by the Romans in 70 A.D.

The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands.  Acts 17;24

     I love seeing the promise of Christ throughout the Old Testament. He fulfilled so many prophetic Scriptures with His birth, His death and His resurrection. Many more are to come with His second coming and the new heaven and earth. The following beautiful Scriptures from the book of Hebrews will tie this all together. Now we can go boldly to the throne of God. Jesus opened that veil of separation for all time.

Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, His body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Hebrews 10:19-21

Dear Father,
How do we thank You for removing the veil of separation once and for all? We can come boldly to the throne because of Jesus, our High Priest. Let us draw near to Him with cleansed hearts.
In Jesus Name
Amen


Tuesday, September 24, 2013

His Radiance

     Our encounters with God can be life-changing. God sees our potential and our purpose long before we do. Let’s revisit Moses today and talk more about his mountain-top experience with the living God. Remember, Moses has been in the desert for 40 years after running from Egypt.  God calls him when he is 80 years old!

     Feeling old, or weak or just plain ordinary? Join the club of Biblical heroes. God chose David, the youngest and weakest in the family to be king. He called Gideon to battle when he was in hiding. God called him a “valiant warrior.” He calls us, the weak and the ordinary to do extraordinary things with His strength.

     After Moses asked to see God's glory and God said he would not live through it, God placed Moses in a crevasse in the rocks, placed His hand over him and allowed His glorious presence to pass alongside. Listen to what happened:

When Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tablets of the covenant law in his hands, he was not aware that his face was radiant because he had spoken with the Lord. When Aaron and all the Israelites saw Moses, his face was radiant and they were afraid to come near him.  Exodus 34:29-30

     Moses had to wear a veil over his face. His countenance was too bright for the people. We will talk more about the significance of the veil and the glory of God this week.  What will we look like, what will we act like after spending time in the presence of God? The word “radiant” means emitting rays of light.

     When we allow His presence to pass by, when we hear His voice calling us to action, He can do miraculous works through us and in us. Don’t be surprised if He calls you at a time when you least expect it, at an age where you think it’s too early or too late, at a time when you feel as if you are hiding under a rock, at a time when you are about to give up. Is He calling you today? Whether you are on a mountain-top or in a valley, let your countenance be lit with the radiance of His glory.

Dear Jesus,
Thank you for sharing the stories of Your children. You often call us at our weakest moments. You fill us with light. Let us radiate with the Son.
Amen


Monday, September 23, 2013

The Glory of God's Dwelling

Arise, shine, for your light has come and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.  Isaiah 60:1

     The glory of the Lord is available to each one of us today, as we experience the presence of Christ. This week we will travel together back to Israel’s journey through the wilderness as they made their way to the Promised Land. Moses was called to meet with God, in the presence of His glory.

     That presence of God traveled with them as a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night. When Moses asked to see the glory of God, God told him, “You cannot see my face; for no man shall see Me and live.” (see Exoduss 33)

     The presence of the Lord was kept behind a veil in the temple. Today, after the death and resurrection of Jesus, the glory of the Lord has been allowed into our hearts.  We are blessed to be living in this time of grace and light. The Hebrew word, “Shekinah” meant the dwelling place or settling place of God's glory.

The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.  John 1:14

Dear Jesus,
Your light and glory lives and dwells among us now in grace and truth. You are the glory of God living within us. Someday we will see you in full glory as we finally meet you face to face and live forever. Thank you for Your Word this morning. May it rise up in our hearts.
Amen



Friday, September 20, 2013

Celebrating the Gift

     It is my birthday today. I am blessed to have a loving family and wonderful friends to celebrate with me. Do you have something to celebrate today? My friend, Connie, begins each day with this prayer. “Dear Lord, thank you for the breath of life today.” That is a great way to start a new day. I wish you joy in your heart, a reason to smile, and a song to sing. Here is a poem I wrote a few years ago. We have something to celebrate everyday in Jesus and the greatest gift ever given.

Dear Lord, I fall upon my knees, so empty, oh so weak.
Darkness has encompassed me, ‘til only You I seek.

There You are with loving grace, You take me as I am.
Gently now you gather me in the arms of the Lamb.

With face upturned, a light begins to stir me from within.
Washed afresh, sins forgiven, my new life does begin.

My heavenly home was made secure there on Calvary.
You, my dear Savior, dwelled on earth and died for me.

And now not only do I have Your Word to light my way.
Your Holy Spirit lives in me to guide me day by day.

Teach me how to serve You, to love others as You do.
I put my faith, I place my trust, in the One and Only You.

Take away my fear and doubt as the chaos does ensue.
When I suffer, when I grieve, You will walk me through.

The very earth around me now groans for your return.
Oceans swirl, tornadoes twirl, volcanoes smoke and churn.

Every soul is yearning for some answers, for release.
Let my prayer, my desire, to share with them Your peace.

All I ask is to know You more, to finish out the race.\
Until one glorious day, I will meet You face-to-face.

Let Your Word spread to every nation, every knee will bow.

Eternal light will shine forever, may it shine upon us now.

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Celebrating New Life

     Did you know that when you become a Christian you become a new creation? Jesus takes away our sin and death, once and for all, and we are already seated in heaven with our names written in the Book of Life. Wow!

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone, the new is here!  2 Corinthians 5:17

     The baptism of the Holy Spirit gives us the promise of new life now and forever. You may have heard these words of comfort at a funeral.

We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.  Romans 6:4


We are sealed.

And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in Him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, who is a depost guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession-to the praise of His glory.  Ephesians 1:13-14

     When you are down, when you doubt, if you are in debt or feeling depressed, remember this deposit. Recognize there is an invisible seal on your forehead and in your heart. This guarantee is the ultimate hope for glory. You are going to heaven! Nothing can separate you from the love of God. Your sins are forgiven, past, present and future.

     Satan may tempt us with his lies, oppress us with temptation, but he knows he can never, ever gain access to us. We are redeemed!! Now, let the Holy Spirit’s guarantee guide you into a lifetime of joy, peace and purpose. You are a new creation! The old has gone, the new has come. Live the new life now and forever. This earthly life is gone in a moment and love reminas forever. Let’s celebrate!

Dear Father in Heaven,
Thank you for Your Holy Spirit, the deposit for heaven. You have given us this guarantee and nothing can take it away. Jesus promised us eternal life. All we need to do is believe in Him. An amazing gift of amazing grace. We don’t deserve it, but we celebrate this gift with You.
In Jesus Name
Amen



Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Celebrating His Light

     Yesterday, Jesus reminded us that He is the light of the world. That glorious light enters us when we put our faith in Jesus. Remember the song,This Little Light of Mine?  Well, let’s let it shine! We don’t want to hide it under a bushel! No! We want to let it shine, let it shine, let it shine. Just as one small candle can bring comfort and warmth into a dark room, we can bring the light of Christ into the darkness around us.

Therefore, if your whole body is full of light, and no part of it dark, it will be just as full of light as when a lamp shines its light on you. Luke 11:36

The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:5

     There are days we shine brightly. There are days we turn the dimmer switch on low and then there are the days when the darkness seems to be more powerful than the light. Don’t believe it! The power of Christ will expose any darkness. Go to Him and His Word.

You, Lord, are my lamp; the Lord turns my darkness into light. 2 Samuel 22:29

Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.  Psalm 119:105

     You are God’s workmanship, unique, one-of-a-kind, shining His light in a variety of ways in your family, in your workplace, with your friends, or in your neighborhood. Let it shine and we can be like stars in a dark generation. Let the path set before you be lit with Jesus and His Word.

So that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky..  Philippians 2:15

Dear Lord,
We know, without you, it is easy to fall into darkness. Keep us in Your light, so we will have the ability to shine like stars in the sky.
In Jesus Name

Amen

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

Celebrating His Name

     Do you have a nickname? Do you remember your mom or dad or your friends calling you something other than your given name? My husband is the love of my life. Now, believe me, over twenty-six years of marriage there have been several other names we have given each other. Even in the times of irritation or disagreement, I know he is and will always be the love of my life. A relationship has been built, a history of trust and shared memories.

     The Bible is filled with the names of our Triune God. He is Almighty, the Good Shepherd, the Prince of Peace, the Lion of Judah, the Lamb of God, the Alpha and Omega. He is our strength, our song, our salvation, our Savior. Do you have a favorite?

When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”  John 8:12

     When I was growing up, my mom called me the light of her life and the sunshine of her life. I think that is why the term “light of life” goes straight to my heart. I hope our two daughters will have a smile on their faces for as long as they live remembering, Peanut, Peno, Sweet-pea girl, Petula Poppers, Ladybug, Baby Doll and Lulu.

    
     If you didn’t grow up in a family able to give unconditional love, or you have lost someone you have loved deeply, God can fill in those gaps. He loves you beyond measure and one day in heaven, He will give each of us a new name, made just for us, from a loving father.

     Remember the name of Jesus is above every other name given on earth. His name is to be used in awe and reverence and holiness. Let His name mean something to you. Call on the Shepherd to guide you, the Counselor to comfort you, the Prince of Peace to solve a family disagreement, the Savior to help you forgive someone or our friend to listen to everything on your heart. No matter the need, He will meet it.

Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.  Philippians 2:9-11

Dear Lord,
Your name is powerful. Let us use it wisely in praise and worship, in prayer and reverence. Teach us to treat each other in kindness and love and to lift up and encourage our loved ones with a sweet and gentle spirit. With Your name on our hearts, we can do it. We celebrate the name of Jesus.

Amen

Friday, September 13, 2013

A Word for the Weekend

I found this story I wrote several years ago. My mother-in-law and my brother were living in nursing homes, each dealing with a different type of crisis. This week I thought it would be appropriate to let you in to see how God opened my spiritual eyes to help us deal with this very difficult time. He will help us cope as our spirits connect. Enjoy this almost-fall weekend.

Rambling Mind, Restless Body, Resurrected Heart

 My life as a writer is viewed as curious by many. Lost in fictional characters, deep thinking and quiet days makes me, to the casual observer, melancholy and isolated.  Most of my family and friends are out there in the real world, on the outside; lives filled with details and noise.

My husband says, “You think too much.”

It’s true. My eccentric ways can be annoying.  In the middle of a conversation a stray thought takes flight, traveling an unexplored path to a destination unknown. I blurt out a nonsensical remark.

“Where are you? Weren’t we just talking about dad’s birthday party?”
 my husband asks.

How do I explain? This chaotic mind is derailed at the slightest nudge. Forgotten missions left behind include open cupboard doors, light switches left in the “on” position, delayed meals, and on and on. It is certainly a challenge for my logical/ left-brained husband, not to mention my two daughters.

“Mom! I explained all of this yesterday! Why don’t you ever hear what I am saying? Ugh!” 

Today, this rambling mind is going out.  My mother-in-law is in last stages of real Alzheimers, not the type my family accuses me of having. 

My brother, twenty-two years my senior, is in the last stages of a neurological disease that began in his toes. It has continued in upward motion until it now affects his speaking and swallowing.

I imagine the two of them joined, mind and body, to make one whole human being.

So today is a day for the real world. Today is a day for visiting the nursing homes.

My body is restless, another consequence of the writer’s life. I go for a long walk and think about the day. As I return home, I drop to my knees in helplessness and hopelessness, wondering what to say to them. How can I help? How can we cope?

There are no answers and so I leave the questions with the One of my heart, Jesus. As I repeat His name over and over in praise, He answers my hopelessness with a resurrected heart. Body, mind and spirit are rejuvenated. I move out into the world with renewed energy and an eternal perspective. That perspective can change every worry, every hopeless situation, every fearful thought into a future of hope.

I read comforting Scripture from the book of Psalms to my mother-in-law. It calms both of us.  Suddenly she says, “You are so beautiful.” It brings tears to my eyes. Other days, most days, she is filled with unrest and anxiety.  I don’t believe she knows who I am but I believe the Holy Spirit within both of us connects.  It is a moment to treasure from one rambling mind to another.

As I leave her side I feel blessed. God can transform a situation in miraculous and unexpected ways. And I move on to my next stop.

As I rub the good hand of my brother on his frozen and rigid body, I remember his born again moment several years ago. My brother, Jim, had lived with depression for much of his life. He could not imagine a loving God in that dark world of his. But, as God often does, He brought a glimmer of light into the darkest of places at just the right time.

As Jim’s body began to wear out, the right people appeared. There was the motorcycle-riding chaplain visiting the nursing home. He and Jim clicked.  An old friend, motoring down the avenue in her wheelchair came to see him with a Bible in her hand. There were the hymns sung on Sunday mornings. The hymns of old made him cry; the tears that had never been shed.

And, on a beautiful fall day about two years ago, on his wife’s birthday, he met us with the incredible words, “ I have met Jesus. I am born again.”

For these last two years he has a peace and calm and humor about him not found in most of us. He is content and I marvel at the wonder and awe of this God of ours. And these restless bodies connect. I am grateful.

And through His Spirit I am redeemed and resurrected. And so are they. So are they.

Jesus knows the way through all of the suffering in this short life.  Rambling minds, both real and imagined, restless bodies aching for relief become His as we are resurrected with Him now and eternally.  One day with open minds and healed bodies we will see clearly, as His resurrection becomes ours forever.

However, as it is written, “No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him.”

1 Corinthians 2:9

Aging Spiritually/All is Well with My Soul

     Are your spiritual muscles feeling a little stronger? Are your eyes beginning to glow with that certain light? Is your spiritual heart beating with passion and love? Are you ready to fill up on the living bread and water of Jesus and His Word?

     I pray this week you have thought a little more about the value in growing spiritually. I believe that when the Holy Spirit becomes the voice we hear, we can live the abundant life God has in store for us. When life is getting too busy, too stressful, when we are living in fear or grief, He will guide us through, keeping us in peace, no matter how many times we need to begin again. I read a prayer once and it it so true. “God of new beginnings and new mercies, here I am again.” We fall, we stumble, we regress, but His mercies are new everyday. And when we turn back again, He starts anew and the great news is, He will do the work when we give it all to Him.

Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. Philippians 1:6

     Let’s give Him everything; the hurt, the fear, every emotion and deep need. He will replace it all with His deep peace and joy. There is nothing like it on earth. And when our soul is well, it begins to have a healing effect on our physical and emotional health. I leave you with this prayer written by the apostle, John.

Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. 3 John 1:2


Thursday, September 12, 2013

Aging Spiritually/Living Water

"Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” John 7:38

     The Bible mirrors our physical health with our spiritual health. We know we are to take care of our hearts with healthy food and exercise to keep our bodies in shape. Keeping our spiritual hearts guarded and filled will keep us overflowing with spiritual health.

     In our daily lives we are told to drink water, to stay hydrated, to keep ahead of the heat. Jesus tells us in John 7, that if we believe in Him rivers of living water will flow from within. We will never be thirsty again. (John 4) Jesus and His Word are the living bread and water for our lives right now and into eternity.

For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their Shepherd; He will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.  Revelation 7:17

     Believing in Jesus quenches our spiritual thirst on earth and someday in eternity, Jesus, Lamb of God, will be our Great Shepherd, wiping every earthly tear from our eye and leading us, again, to the living water.

     What a beautiful picture. This overflow of life, this overflow of love can only be found in Christ and in His Word. Have you tasted the living water and bread of life? Once you get a small taste, a hunger and a thirst for more will develop. We will be satisfied. What happens when the well runs dry, or we run away for awhile, or we let life get in the way of trust? He is always there with more of the abundant life with bread, water and a heart of love for our very souls. Jesus told us we would have trouble in this world, but listen to His promise to you and me.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

     This Almighty God, this Good Shepherd, this Lamb of God who sacrificed everything to save us from sin, this Word of God come to life, will nourish you with manna from heaven and give you peace.

Dear Father,
How can we thank you for this living bread and water of Christ? Fill us until we overflow with it. I pray each Scripture verse will go into our hearts. Remind us to take care of our spiritual health by spending time with Your Son and His Word.
Amen


Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Spiritually aging/Healthy Heart II

Above all else guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it. Proverbs 4:23

     Guarding our own hearts would be impossible. Giving our hearts wholly to the Holy One will give Him permission to guard it and fill it with His love. The overflow of His love will show in our actions and be heard from our lips.

Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.  Proverbs 12:25

We might offer a kind word to an anxious friend.

A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy robs the bones. Proverbs 14:30

God uses each one of us in very different ways. He can grow us into fulfilling our very own and unique purpose. There is no need for envy.

The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil.  Proverbs 15:28

We will be more careful with our tongues, recognizing the power of our words.

A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. Proverbs 17:22

Find some humor today. A good belly laugh is good medicine.

Before a downfall the heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor.  Proverbs 18:12

A man of God, (our janitor at a prior church) used these words: “Humility does not mean we think less of ourselves, but we think of ourselves less. Giving to others with a humble heart gives honor to God..

As water reflects the face, so one’s life reflects the heart.  Proverbs 27:19

     Is God’s heart being reflected in your life? All of these Scriptures are a reminder of what the heart of God can look like when we give Him permission to enter, to love us so much that it can’t help but overflow. Jesus changes everything, from the inside out and everything we do can flow from that.

Dear Jesus,
Help us to be your hands and feet, as you guard our hearts. Show us how to be the ones to comfort, to encourage and lift up others and to be at peace with being your children, each in our own way. Your heart is big enough to handle ours.

Amen

Tuesday, September 10, 2013

Aging Spiritually/A Healthy Heart

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.  Matthew 6:21

Jesus reminds us of the greatest commandment.  “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.”  Matthew 22:37.

     The Bible is a love story. It is no wonder the word “heart” is mentioned over 500 times. When we invest our time and our treasure into loving God and trusting Him and writing His Words on our hearts, we learn to discern the voice of the Spirit and how to live our lives. God’s Word changes us.

The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes.  Psalm 19:8

The Word of God gives joy to our hearts and lightens our gaze.

Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all of their heart.  Psalm 119:2

We are blessed.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him and he will make your paths straight.  Proverbs 3:5-6

He will guide our paths in the way we should go.

     Yesterday we contrasted worldly wisdom and beauty with Godly wisdom and beauty. When God chooses our paths, lightens our heart and blesses us, the world may not see the value in any of it. Many times the blessings from within can’t be measured, weighed or seen. God does not take much notice of our outward appearance.

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7

Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight. 1 Peter 3:4

     What is the current condition of your heart? Guard it with God’s Word. Fill it with His joy. He is blessing you right now as you read these Words of Scripture. Feel His presence as you spend time with Him. Let the treasures of your heart be measured in your love for Him and for others. Your inner appearance is much more valuable to God and to men. For out of it flows what is important in life.

     And when God changes our hearts, He uses us in mighty ways. He chooses the ordinary, the weak and the foolish things of the world to confound the wise and to show His strength. He chooses me and you to do His work with a heart filled with treasure.

Dear Jesus,
You see the real us, the parts that are often hidden from everyone else, even those closest to us. Fill our hearts with the most valuable lessons in life; the Words from you. You have the Words to eternal life.
Amen


Monday, September 9, 2013

Aging Spiritually

     The heroes in my life have changed over the years. The people I view as wise and beautiful contrast with the world’s view of beauty and wisdom. I was shocked to see an older Hollywood star after she had, what appeared to be, many cosmetic surgeries. There was nothing natural about her and there was little evidence left of the young star of decades past. The quest for a youthful appearance brought about a grotesque mask with misshapen features.

     My neighbor and friend, Phyllis, is 82 years old. When I spend time with her, I realize I want to grow up to be just like her! Gray hair surrounds her like a halo and her countenance is lit with kindness and gentleness. She wears little or no make-up. Her eyes sparkle with humor. She is beautiful. She has walked with Jesus for most of her life and His image flows from deep within.

Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness. Proverbs 16:31

     How does God see us? What does He consider most valuable? You might be surprised this week as we think about growing in the Spirit. Our spirits can grow and shine ever brighter, even as our bodies age. The challenge is to learn to see with spiritual eyes and ears.

Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.  Romans 8:5

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.  2 Corinthians 4:16

Dear Lord,
Your Holy Spirit comes to live within us when we first call you Lord and Savior. Teach us how to grow inwardly as we set our minds on what the Spirit desires. Our Spirits can be renewed day by day.
In Jesus Name
Amen

  


     

Friday, September 6, 2013

A Word for the Weekend

We’ve talked about the ups and downs, highs and lows, dips and curves, ascents and descents of our roller-coaster lives. We have thanked God for our companions along the way and found ways to focus on things above, fixing our hearts and minds on the One to trust in every season. Deciding to trust Him with everything isn’t easy is it?

Let’s allow Him to be our guide for the ride each day. Let's look beyond our circumstances into the future filled with hope and eventually an eternity in paradise.

You guide me with your counsel and afterward you will take me into glory. Psalms 73:24

Enjoy the weekend!

Passion For The Ride

     Our perspective of life changes through each season. We stand on solid ground and see ourselves and the way our lives will play out with eyes fixed forward in our teens and twenties, with a bit of an overwhelmed and unfocused view of life through our busy thirties and forties. Now in my late fifties, I look forward to these next decades, but I look back a little more often, recognizing that life takes us to places and puts us through so much that was not in the plan.

     We want to plan out each detail even with the certainty of a few side trips and a veering off of our chosen path. There will be times to sit out the ride while we are “under construction.” And that deep vertical drop, the one where we want to tightly close our eyes and ride it out? It sometimes lasts longer than expected. How do we keep our passion for life with all of the uncertainties ahead?
 
     What would happen if we face the rest of our lives with a wide-open gaze and arms raised to the sky, with a passion and a purpose and exuberance to live the abundant life God has planned for us? What if we recognize that around the next curve, even in the scary fall, Jesus has us in the palm of His hand?

     When we know that the end of the ride will bring us complete joy and peace forever, maybe we can get through every bit of our time here with hope. What do you think? The word “enthusiasm” comes from two Greek words, “en” meaning in and “theos” meaning God. We are on the ride together, you and I. Will you shout out a “yes!” to living with enthusiasm and passion for Him?

Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.  Romans 12;11

Dear Lord,
We place our lives in Your loving and capable hands. Will you give each reader a sense of purpose and peace? You are the beginning and the end, the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, and you will fill all of the gaps in between. May Your Holy Spirit be our guide today.
In Jesus Name
Amen



Thursday, September 5, 2013

Focus For the Ride

One thing I ask from the Lord, this only do I seek; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple. Psalm 27:4 

 Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Proverbs 4:25 

     Trying to balance may require a focal point. Keeping a steady gaze ahead in the distance may get you through the roller-coster ride. Your life story is being played out in a variety of ways; in your family, in your career, in your children, in the choices you make. We have found our most important companion for the ride; Jesus. I pray you have others to love and support you for the ride.

     The Bible reminds us to keep a steady focus, a view of the goal in mind, a focal point. We can worship God, our creator in the way we do our job, to find value in the chores we do for our family, in finding ways to trust in the deepest times of sorrow. How do we get there? Focus. Jesus knew His mission, as he lived out His thirty-three years of life. Each step He took brought Him closer to the cross. He saw beyond it. He fixed His gaze to the resurrection and His purpose. He believes in you and your purpose for your life.

     My friend, Sylvia, went home to be with Jesus a couple of weeks ago. The last three years of her life were filled with physical challenges; a liver transplant, a brain tumor, trips back and forth to Mayo, blood transfusions, infections, chemo and radiation. She came, as often as she could, to our Tuesday morning Bible studies. She was filled with God’s grace. She praised Him through her time of suffering. Her greatest mission was to share the love of Jesus with others and to enjoy the rest of the ride, including parasailing with her twelve-year-old granddaughter. She maintained a sense of humor and a huge smile that lit up the room.

     I don’t want to paint a perfect picture. She suffered. She fell apart. She had down days where she needed to be lifted up. We all do. There are times of grief, and loneliness and fear. But I want to be strong and fearless and faithful. I want to be prepared for those times in advance. But how?

Since then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians 3:1-2 

Dear Jesus,
Teach us how to believe and have faith and trust in You even during our times of despair and suffering. Teach us how to help each other through the valleys and to learn from the wise women and men of faith who go before us. We fix our hearts, our minds and our gaze on You.
 Amen

Wednesday, September 4, 2013

Companions for the Ride

Rejoice with those who rejoice. mourn with those who mourn. Romans 12:15 

      Thinking about the highs and lows of this life, based on our roller-coaster ride yesterday, I was brought back to the year of my engagement and wedding. Sometimes our brightest moments of life coincide with our darkest moments. That was certainly true for us. My eye disease was diagnosed during the year I became engaged. My mom was diagnosed with advanced cervical cancer a few months later. She had surgery, but became very sick the week of our wedding. She could not attend and died the next day. My husband lost his job shortly after that and I became pregnant a few months later with our first child. The highs and lows, came swiftly with little time to take it all in.

      Have you had times of great happiness and devastating grief collide? Those “Headline Events” in our lives are often used to describe us. Isn’t she the one? The one with cancer? The one with the disability? The one with the child in trouble? The one getting a divorce? Looking back, these times of great emotion not only drew my husband and me closer, but they brought me to my knees. Discovering Jesus brought joy in the midst of the muck and mire. Not only is He present with us during these times of deep hurt and glorious joy, but He places the perfect people around us to get us through. When I took my husband’s hand that early May day in 1987 and looked into his eyes, I knew God had given him to me at just the right time. He gave me a man of integrity, someone to trust. Believe me, it’s not easy living with this emotional, distracted, legally blind wife of his. But the two became one.

      Trust Jesus with your life. You may be surprised at the suffering you can get through, at the unexpected joy of a newborn baby, at seeing children grow into fabulous adults, at the people He puts in your path at just the right moment. Hang on. It won’t be easy, but this journey of life and faith is worth every tear, every smile, every hand-holding moment.

 Dear Father,
Thank you for the people we love; the friends who stand by us, the loves of our lives, the children, the siblings, the parents and the neighbors. Would you allow us to feel your unconditional love when we feel the most lonely and bring companions into the lives of those who need it most, at just the right moment. Allow us to show the kind of love You have shown us, the sacrificial, humble love of a servant. In Jesus Name,
Amen

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

The Roller-Coaster Ride

I am with you, says the Lord. Haggai 1:13 

     Years ago, a middle school counselor on orientation day for one of our daughters gave us wise advice. She said the years ahead would be like a roller- coaster ride. Our children would face a variety of highs and lows. Her advice? Stay on the sidelines. Do not get on the ride with them. Give them a supportive wave and be there to pick them up, but let them discover things on this ride called life. These lives of ours are filled with times of steady ease, times of unexpected dips and curves and earth-shattering and frightening lows. Even though we can’t possibly experience everything with each other, even those we love the most, there is One who can. Jesus will be there during the entire ride, to experience every ear-splitting yell of pure joy, to ease our fear as we see the dangerous curve ahead, and as our companion through every time of smooth sailing.

     Remind yourself of that today. He will never complain about being too dizzy or too tired to go again. He has been higher and lower than any of us will ever experience. He sits in the glory of heaven and He suffered through the pits of hell. He will look you in the eyes and say, “Surely I am with you always, even to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:20 Whether you are in the beginning of your life, or starting up that final ascent, Jesus will be your ever-present constant companion. Take His hand and experience it all.

 Dear Jesus,
 Stay close beside us today, no matter where we find ourselves, in sorrow, or joy. Remind us to talk with You, to listen to Your voice. You will get us through today, tomorrow and until the end of the age. We love You.
Amen