Merry Christmas!

     Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Reflect on hope and I will be back on January 7^th. Each year I pick a “word of the year.”  “Beginnings” was my word for last year. And I have a precious grandson, a retired husband, an engaged daughter, and a full-time blessing of caring for our sweet Gavin. May your dreams come true in the coming year and may they include Jesus. I will be praying for you.

See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up, do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. Isaiah 43:19

Peace and Joy

     I  pray for each of you to find joy and peace this season. This can be a difficult time of year for those in grief, for the lonely and the tired. This season can be a reminder of sadness, of things lost or never found. Jesus is the reason for the season, and He has been lost in Santa, in busyness, in decorations and in too much of…well…everything!

     This time of year, maybe after the hoopla of the season fades, can be a time for reflection. Often, this can be a time of hope, of new beginnings, of resolutions. Is it time, to slow down, to spend more time with God? It can be hard to find that time.

     I wish you all the peace and joy of Christ in the coming year. He is the one of hope, the encourager, the comforter, the companion, the good Shepherd, Our king and our friend. I pray you find Him in a deeper way this year, throughout all circumstances, in each day. Give everything to Him, the God of all hope.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In His great mercy, He has given us new birth and a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 1 Peter 1:3-5

     This promise is ours forever! Take comfort from the promises of Jesus as we end this year. Celebrate His birth and remember His resurrection. His coming was for us. Our inheritance is secure. No more fear! Rejoice!

Lord,

As we near the end of another year, fill the lonely with comfort, fill the weak with Your strength, fill our hearts with hope. Our hope today, tomorrow and forever in found in Christ.

Amen

A Child Is Born

     The life of Christ fulfilled hundreds of prophecies written by many different men of God, over hundreds of years. The Bible is filled with truth. He would come from the lineage of Abraham (Genesis 12), through the tribe of Judah (Genesis 49). The eternal kingdom would come through King David’s offspring (2 Samuel 7) Jesus was born of a virgin (Isaiah 7), born in Bethlehem (Micah 5).

     God’s timing was perfect in the life, death and resurrection of our Savior. Anticipate the miracle of His birth this season and celebrate! How blessed we are to know Him, to follow Him, to sit in awe and wonder at all He has done.

     Take a minute to read through Luke 2 and experience the magic of the child born in a manger, to bring joy and peace to a sin-filled world. Rejoice and be glad! A child is born.

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all people. For today in the city of David, a Savior has been born to you. He is the Messiah, the Lord. Luke 2:10-11

Father,

The story of the birth of Your Son fills us with wonder. The angels, the shepherds, the stable, all foretold. We are filled with joy at this time of the year. Let it follow us all year through.

In Jesus name,

Amen

The Weak and The Foolish

     It’s easy to imagine the Biblical greats as wise, larger-than-life, chosen heroes. And yet, each and every one of them was an ordinary human being, like you and me. God chooses the weak and the foolish in this world to promote His ways. That’s me! That’s all of us. I love these words from the apostle, Paul.

Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise. God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things-and the things that are not-to nullify the things that are, so that no one can boast before Him. 1 Corinthians 1:26-29

     God Himself became a servant, born in a manger, a carpenter’s son, a common man, to become sin for us. He lived the one and only perfect life so that we can have freedom in Him.

     It is all about Him, so no man can boast. We are strong in Him in our weakness. We are wise in Him, though we are foolish. We can do nothing without Him.. What a glorious truth. Just believe!

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith-and this is not from yourselves. It is a gift from God-not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

Father,

It is by grace we are saved. We humble ourselves before You, as weak and foolish. We rely on Your strength and power. Without You we can do nothing. (John 15) Thank You for our faith.

In Jesus name,

Amen

The Magnificat

     Mary’s song of praise to her Lord is known as “Mary’s Song,” or “The Magnificat.” It is found in Chapter 1 of the Book of Luke in response to God’s plan for her. These beautiful words in verses 40-55 reveal Mary’s deep faith, even in the midst of questions. How can a virgin possibly give birth? Her words of acceptance to God’s plan should mirror our own, “Let it be to me, according to His plan.”

     At first Mary is “deeply troubled.” And then, she questions. Why? How? What? The same questions we all ask when we don’t understand. So much in life is filled with question and doubt, isn’t it? And yet, like Mary, we can respond to God with praise and peace. He knows the plan. He knows the number of our days. He is in control.

     Mary did have an angel to reassure her. Don’t you wish you could hear the voice of an angel or see one? I know I do. They are around us and God’s presence can fill our deepest desires and give us peace in our unanswered questions. Let’s praise God, along with Mary today, as we anticipate the celebration of our Lord, Jesus. Let it be so.

And Mary said, “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God, my Savior, for He has been mindful of the humble state of His servant. From now on, all generations will call me blessed.” Luke 1:46-48

Father,

You work the most miraculous deeds through Your humble servants. Let our questions be answered, our doubts put to rest, as we glorify in You. Let it be so. Your purposes will be fulfilled.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Legacy

     Legacies come in different shapes and sizes; in business, in sports in academics, but the greatest of all is a legacy of faith. Our faith in Christ blesses us today and forever. Our souls and bodies will live forever with Him and we have the privilege of passing it on.

     The gifts He provides and the grace He gives are given individually and we can never compare or compete. My grandma, Pella, is just as loved as Billy Graham, Corrie Ten Boom or any world leader.

     If we listen to Him and say, as Adrian Rogers reminded us this week, “yes, Lord!” He will place people and opportunities right in our path s we step forward in faith. I pray you leave a legacy of faith in Jesus. He does all the work. We just need to follow. How marvelous are His ways!

Declare His glory among the nations, His marvelous deeds among all peoples. 1 Chronicles 16:24

Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it.” Isaiah 30:21

     May Jesus guide us and give us all legacies of faith as we pass through these short journeys on earth. It is not about us, but bringing glory to our God.

I give thanks to You, O Lord, my God, with my whole heart, and I will glorify Your name forever. Psalm 86:12

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5;16

So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10;31

Lord,

Create in us hearts willing to glorify You in all we do. We long to leave leagcies of great faith in Your Son, Jesus. In His name we pray.

Amen

Legacy

     Today’s person of faith is much closer to home for me. No worldwide ministry claimed her, no books were written by or about her, but she left an enormous legacy of faith and a huge impact on my life. This woman of faith was my grandma, Pella. Yes, Pella and Ole never lost their strong Swedish accent, calling me, “Yudy.” They were upbeat and…well…a bit goofy. Grandpa loved playing tricks on all of us, played the accordion, and brought plastic glasses with big noses for everyone to wear at family picnics. His laugh was contagious.

     They laughed like children and loved like Jesus. I still have Pella’s Swedish Bible. I picture her thumbing through this great Book daily, humming sweet hymns as she rocked and read. Her hands were always busy, reading, knitting or twiddling her thumbs. (My husband tells me I have inherited this gene.). The thin, worn-out pages of her Bible remind me of the saying, “if your Bible is wearing out, there is a good chance you are not.”

     Her love of the Lord guided everything she did. My grandma and grandpa, my mom and her siblings all accepted Jesus as Savior at one of Billy Graham’s first tent revivals. I am still partial to the ministry of Billy Graham. Today’s verses are from Proverbs 31 and the value of a faith-filled wife, mom and follower of God.

A wife of noble character, who can find? She is worth far more than rubies. Her husband has full confidence in her and lacks nothing of value. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands. Proverbs 31:10-13

     Yes, Pella was a wonderful wife and worked with eager hands. Here are two more verses to describe my wonderful, Swedish grandma.

She is clothed with strength and dignity, she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed, her husband also, and he praises her. Proverbs 31:25-28

Lord,

Thank You for great women of faith, instructing their families and tending to their needs with the love of Christ. I was blessed to have just such a grandma and just such a mom. I am grateful.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Legacy

     Today’s man of faith is Pastor Adrian Rogers. He died many years ago, but his legacy lives on throughout the world. His work and his wisdom live on in his numerous books and Bible studies. You may still hear His booming voice on KKMS 980 AM in Minneapolis at 1:00 each day. His television program airs internationally.

     He had a way with words. His ability to put sentences together in creative ways lingers long after you hear or read his work. Here are a few quotes from this man of God.

·       It is better to be divided in truth than to be united in error.

·       We ought to be living as if Jesus died yesterday, rose this morning, and is coming back this afternoon.

·       Man throws broken things away, but God never uses anything until He first breaks it.

·       Anything you love more, fear more, serve more, or value more than God is an idol.

·       Two words will change your life…Yes Lord!

·    There is no promise God cannot keep, no prayer God will not answer, and no problem impossible for Him to solve.

·       Our greatest need is to discover that Jesus is all we need.

·       The Bible is to judge us. We are not to judge the Bible.

     Think of the blessings this man has left with the world. His goal was to spread the Gospel of Jesus around the world and his ministry, “Love Worth Finding” still operates around the world.

Here are our verses for today in honor of great men of God.

Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58

For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.  1 Timothy 4:8

Father,

Thank You for Your servant, Adrian Rogers, for His unwavering faith in You from the time He was a young boy. He set an example in this life and He now reside with You. His labor was not in vain.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Legacy

     This week shows the impact one person can make on the world or on another’s life. Corrie Ten Boom grew up as a Dutch Christian and her family protected many Jews in their home during WWII.  Their family home was raided and they were imprisoned in the death camps by Hitler and his followers. Her sister and father would die in those camps. I highly recommend the book, The Hiding Place recounting Corrie’s experience.

     She would live to be 91, write several books and travel around the world speaking on the Christian faith. Here are a few inspirational quotes from Corrie Ten Boom.

“Some knowledge is too heavy…you cannot bear it…your Father will carry it for you, until you are able.”

“Don’t bother to give God instructions. Just report for duty.”

“Is prayer your steering wheel or your spare tire?”

“In darkness God’s truth shines most clear.”

“What wings are to a bird, and sails to a ship, so prayer is to the soul.”

“With Jesus, even in our darkest moments the best remains and the very best is yet to be.”

“If you look to the world, you will be distressed. If you look within, you will be depressed, but if you look at Christ, you will be at rest.”

“The measure of a life is not its duration, but its donation.”

“When I try, I fail. When I trust, He succeeds.”

     Today’s verse is in honor of Corrie Ten Boom, who made her past experiences work into God’s plan. God will use every part of our lives as part of His plan for good.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord. “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

Jesus,

Thank You for legacies of faith, that seek You through the most tragic of times and leave the world a better place for their wisdom in following You and Your light.

Amen

Legacy

    The life and service of George H.W. Bush will live on. I was moved by the legacy he left and by the words of friends and family describing this man of honor, faith, and service. In these days of vicious politics, his example reminds us of what a humble leader can look like. Newsweek called him a “wimp” back in the days of his presidency, but humble leaders leave us with the strongest example.

     Here is part of an e-mail he sent to a friend on 10 life lessons for young people.

1         1. Don’t get down when your life takes a bad turn. Out of adversity comes challenge and often success.

     2. Don’t blame others for your setbacks.

         3. When things go well, always give credit to others.

     4. Don’t talk all the time. Listen to your friends and mentors and learn from them.
     5. Don’t brag about yourself. Let others point out your virtues, your strong points.

         6. Give someone else a hand. When a friend is hurting, show that friend you care.

         7. Nobody likes an overbearing big shot.

        8. As you succeed, be kind to people. Thank those who help you along the way.

        9. Don’t be afraid to shed a tear when your heart is broken or when a friend is hurting.     

       10. Say your prayers.

     Good advice for all of us. This man’s life reminds me of a favorite Bible verse found in the book of Micah.

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to show mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8

Father,

We thank You for men of faith, that walk humbly in Your service and show kindness and mercy wherever they go. Teach us to listen more, to give sacrificially, to walk humbly before Our Lord.

In Jesus name,

Amen

The Full Armor of God

     Thank you for sticking with me this week. It is so much easier to put our heads in the sand and speak only of the man, Jesus and His love. That is the greatest command, to love others and to share that unconditional love with the world. But the Bible is clear. Evil is real, and we are in the battle for Christ. Be aware and stand strong.

     And we are victorious in this battle. Look at the spiritual armor we wear each day. Feel the protection as you venture out, and as you continue to step away from the things God does not permit.

Stand firm then with the best of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, always be alert and keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Ephesians 13-18

     Notice the spiritual armor is all defensive, given by God. Our one offensive weapon is the word of God! Jesus used Scripture when He was tempted by the devil after 40 days of fasting. When you are afraid or tempted or heading down the wrong road, speak Scripture aloud in the name of Jesus. We are protected. We have truth, righteousness through Christ, the gospel of peace, our guarantee of salvation and prayer. Onward Christian soldiers!! Be alert and aware and be at peace.

Lord,

Thank You for Your protection that covers us. We can extinguish all of the arrows Satan aims at us. We pray for those falling away from faith right now. Bring them back to You safely and have them tell their stories. You are victorious.

Amen

Children of the Light and of the Day

     Our eyes are the window to the soul. They contain the light of Christ when we are saved. This light begins to dim as we listen to demonic activity, or show an interest in these deceptive angels of light.

The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then, the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! Matthew 6:22-23

     Keep your spiritual eyes and heart focused on Jesus. I find it intriguing and interesting that much of the spiritual realm apart from Christ occurs in the dark. Ghost hunters scout out cemeteries and abandoned houses. Seances and witch covens meet in their “sacred” circles in the dark of night. We are children of the day and the light.

You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. 1 Thessalonians 5:5

     We don’t understand it all, but our God is just and fair. He gives us all a choice, to choose the true God, and redemption through Christ. Let the Word flow into your heart. The battle is real and we are warriors for Christ. Satan controls certain people, certain spirits and certain principalities.

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Ephesians 6:12

     Satan has strongholds around the world. If you have met missionaries that have served in Haiti and other third-world countries, you have heard stories about witch doctors, about voodoo, about the overwhelming presence of darkness. The battle is real and we can stand against it. Tomorrow we will move deeper into Ephesians 6 to put on our full armor. Praise God!

Father,

Thank You for providing all we need as your children of light. Protect us from evil. We are yours and we stand against the evil that is increasing. One day, very soon, You will trample it all under Your feet. In the meantime, we wait expectantly and pray for those who do not know You.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Dabbling With Darkness

     Jesus remains our Lord and Savior. Dabbling in the spirit world is becoming more and more common, even among believers. This was brought to me like a slap in the face when I heard an interview with a pastor friend of mine. He was instrumental in my faith journey and he is now seeing a medium and studying Buddhism and other religions.

Here are warnings from Scripture to all of us.

The nations you will dispossess listen to those who practice sorcery or divination. But as for you, the Lord your God has not permitted you to do so. Deuteronomy 18:14\

“Do not turn to mediums or seek out spiritists, for you will be defiled by them. I am the Lord your God.” Leviticus 19:31

When someone tells you to consult mediums and spiritists, who whisper and mutter, should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living? Isaiah 8:19     

     I truly believe that once we place our trust in Jesus as Savior, we are saved for heaven. Nothing, not ever, can separate us from Him. I am praying for this dear friend of mine and I believe the Holy Spirit will not let him go. This journey away from Christ, hopefully, will turn into a testimony of how Christ brought him back to truth.

     There are many books out there about the reality of this dark world, including those who have escaped from the occult and darkness. They describe journeys into demonic activity which began with harmless curiosity, with a visit to a medium, to a psychic, or to a coven of “good witches.”  The more they moved into this world, the darker it became. They opened doors to demonic activity that became real and terrifying.

     Luckily, many Christians are waking up to this reality and sounding a warning. This is not harmless and “good.” It is dangerous territory forbidden by our God.  Bookstores, movies and media are filled with spells and omens and ghost sightings and the paranormal. This spirit world is real.

     Staying in the word and not in the world is becoming increasingly difficult in this culture of unending information. Scripture binds us to truth. Let’s stand together in the light of Christ.

Father,

Thank You for the words you give us. You guide us into light and truth. Protect us from our enemy. We listen to Your voice about the din that surrounds us. Keep us focused on You.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Debbling With Darkness

     The demonic world can disguise itself as good. Remember, Satan wants what Jesus has. He wants to be worshipped and followed. He is deceptive and a liar.

The thief comes only to kill and steal and destroy. I have come that they may have life and have it to the full. John 10:10

     Satan and his demonic forces want to kill and destroy our faith. They lull the world with subtle deception, with temptations to sway us from truth and light. They can disguise themselves as angels of light.

For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 2 Corinthians 11:13-14

     Jesus warned us of all of the signs of the last times. Here are a couple of verses that speak of the deep deception that has come and will increase.

At that time, many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold.  Matthew 24:9-1

For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of false teachers to hear what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. 2 Timothy 4:3-4

     Sobering words from our Lord. The Bible is all about us gaining wisdom and knowledge and truth. Jesus commands us not to worry or fear, to remain peace-filled even in times of great turmoil and tribulation. How wonderful to be sons and daughters of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

     Let’s be watchful and wise as we await His coming. We are to look up and focus on Him, not wavering and dabbling in the ways of the world and ancient myths.

Jesus,

We thank You for Your words. So many are only listening to part of Your word, watering it down to fit their feelings and needs, rather than learning the full counsel of Scripture from Your word. You are pure light. Keep us filled.

Amen

Dabbling With Darkness

     This week has not been an easy week to write. God has been placing situations and truth in front of me that I can’t ignore and when the Holy Spirit nudges, I need to trust God’s will and not my own. As the coming of Christ draws ever closer, we are told of all that will come to pass. Evil will increase, some believers will fall away from the truth of Scripture, earthquakes and storms will increase. (Did Jesus predict climate change or is this His will being put into motion?)

     Demonic activity is real. C.S. Lewis, one of my favorite Christian writers said something like this: There are two equal and opposite ways to consider the demons around us. One is to ignore their existence completely and the other is to have an unhealthy interest in them.

     This week we will discuss the reality of the evil surrounding us. Before we begin, I want to remind you, that as believers in Jesus, we have the power and the strength of His protection. His Holy Spirit resides within us.

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the One who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 1 John 4:4

     Reading through the whole chapter of 1 John 4, written by the apostle John, we are reminded to test all spirits. Any spirit who does not acknowledge Jesus as Lord is demonic and deceptive. Many in our day are turning to witchcraft (yes, it is real) and to mediums and psychics, to Eastern religion. This was foretold in Scripture.

The Spirit clearly says in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. 1 Timothy 4:1

     For today, we pray to remain steadfast in our faith, to stand up for Jesus as the Savior, to lead others to the Gospel and to the inherent truth of His Word. Later in the week, we will study the full armor of God available to us each day. We have the power of Jesus and His name.

Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we can be saved. Acts 4:12

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

     Satan and his demons know Jesus. Their entire goal is to move people away from the one true God, but their power is limited and they, too, must bow to Him.

Father,

We thank You for teaching us truth. We follow light and not darkness. We listen to the voice of the Shepherd, the name above all names. It is Jesus Christ.

Amen

Faith and Fellowship

     As we gather together in faith and fellowship, as we thank God for other believers, as we worship and praise Him within our churches and our homes, we can learn from the Word of God just how we are to treat one another.

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32

Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly, as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. Colossians 3;16

     Such beautiful words to ponder. Be kind and compassionate. Be forgiving. Gather together with the Word of God in your hearts and sing songs from the Spirit with grateful hearts. Just what the world needs and sees too little of these days.

     Gather together. Pray and believe. Gain strength as you study. Give encouragement to the other believers around you and you will fulfill the law of Christ.

Father,

We are grateful for the fellowship of faith. Do not let us grow weary, but to continue to gather together in Your name, the name above all names. We trust You with our prayers for each other. Give us other believers to strengthen our faith.

In Jesus name,
Amen

Faith and Fellowship

     The church of Christ is not found in a certain building or a certain denomination. The church of Christ is His body of believers. Wherever we go, we are His church. And whenever two or more of His children are gathered, he is right there in their hearts and minds and surrounding them with His love.

“For where two or three gather in My name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:20

     Acknowledging the presence of Christ when we gather honors Him. It also brings power and strength as we pray for something or for someone. The children of two of my good friends have wandered from the faith and are dabbling in “spirituality.”  This is a common buzzword of those trying to bring all faiths together, to study other religions and to spiritualize everything around them. Remember, Jesus tells us that no one will see the Father without Him.

     These are not easy times to stand up for Christ, to try to spread His Gospel, but no matter what, it will be heard. Others need to hear the word and to believe in their hearts and they WILL be saved.

Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the Word about Christ. Romans 10:17

     Six of us are praying for these two to come to Christ, that they will hear the Word and believe in their hearts that Jesus is Lord. When two or three are gathered in His name He is there. And He promises He will answer.

“Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by My Father in heaven." Matthew 18:19

Lord,

We trust You with our prayers and we wait expectantly for You to work. We believe Your word and all You promise us. Our greatest prayer is that everyone we know will come to a saving knowledge of You. Thank You for the sisters of faith surrounding me.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Faith and Fellowship

    Jesus is always available to be with us, to strengthen us, to give us His Holy Spirit to teach and guide us, but thank goodness, He gives us the fellowship of faith. How we need each other in this crazy world.

     We are human beings. When we face temptation, when we falter in our faith, when we stumble through a tough time, when we grieve and when we rejoice, it is always better to share it all. Maybe you have heard the saying that goes something like this: Joy is doubled and sorrow halved when you share life with someone.

     I thank God daily for my husband, for our daughters and their guys, and for our beloved grandson and for our friends. My “church ladies” as my husband calls them are invaluable. Their strength, their wisdom, their willingness to share their stories of suffering and their ability to overcome the most difficult times in life, always brings me deep gratefulness.

     We are called in the Bible to take care of our brothers and sisters in the faith. We are called to build them up, to offer them encouragement, to listen and to pray. What a gift! Here are a couple of verses that remind us to do just that.

Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of peace will be with you. 1 Corinthians 13:11

Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact, you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Father,

We thank You for our fellowship with other believers. Surround us with the love and hope we need as we walk through life together, ministering to others in Your Son’s name. We need each other for strength, for encouragement and for love.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Faith and Fellowship

     Two sisters of mine in the faith have gone to heaven over the last two weeks. One I had not seen in a couple of years, but her wisdom, her sweet prayers and her love will remain with all who knew her. She had the heart of a servant.

     The other, Elaine, was a fellow-sojourner over the last twenty-some years. We served together at two different churches and she may be the strongest woman I have ever known. Her first husband died many years ago at a young age and she ran a dairy farm for four years with a young daughter.

     Over twenty years ago, when she was 70 years old, she contracted a virus in her heart in the hospital after knee surgery. The doctors gave her one year to live. She said, “ I choose not to believe that. I believe in the power of prayer.” This story, along with many others, became one of her famous “God stories,” as she called them. She was opinionated, stubborn and had a heart of gold.

     Over the years, Elaine and her second husband, took in several foster children. One of them spoke at the memorial service. After surviving several different foster homes from the age of 12 to 17, Elaine came into her life. Elaine spoke words of life and faith into her and remained in her life for the last thirty years.

     Elaine was frail and in and out of the hospital over the past two years, but she still called many of us before the election to remind us how to vote! I will never forget her. She also spoke words of life into me. She listened, she loved, she cooked and offered hospitality to one and all, and she knew how to stand firm in the faith, no matter what.

     She designed her funeral service down to the last detail. The girl who sang, “Children of the Heavenly Father,” said it was a direct order from Elaine. The pastor apologized for doing the prayer too early according to Elaine’s format. The caterers made Swedish meatballs, mashed potatoes and lingonberries. (Not the usual ham sandwiches and potato salad!)

     What a legacy to leave. We laughed together, cried together, and savored the memories of this remarkable 91-year-old woman of God. My friend Connie and I were able to see her shortly before she died. We were able to tell her what she meant to us as we prayed over her. I gave her these Scriptures not long ago. They will always remind me of our Elaine.

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord and who meditates on the law, day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither-whatever they do prospers. Psalm 1:1-3

Dear Lord,

Thank You for Elaine. You kept her active and strong until the end, like a tree whose leaf does not wither. Now she is living in the midst of living water, never to be weak again. What hope and comfort this brings us, to know she is home with her Savior.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Faith and Fellowship

     Do you decorate for the holidays? I have several light-up churches that take up the shelves in our office. One of them was given to me by my mother-in-law many years ago. They bring me joy. When I remember the church of my youth or celebrating at Central Lutheran in downtown Minneapolis when my uncle came to town, or the church we stood in as we spoke our wedding vows, or the church our daughters grew up in and the church where I became a Stephen minister and Bible study leader, I recognize and appreciate the necessity and the value of fellowship.

     Worshipping our God together gives us strength and deep joy. Getting to know other believers as we dig deeper into the Bible or share stories of life, or pray together for one another brings wisdom and encouragement as we move through life. Jesus is there in the midst of the building, in the hearts of the brothers and sisters, in the words of the pastor, in the fellowship of love.

And let us consider how we may spur one another on to toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25

     Let other believers encourage you and build you up. Study the Word together, pray together as we await the return of Christ.

Father,

Thank You for providing us with brothers and sisters in the faith. We are grateful. We come together in praise and worship and love.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Thank you!

With a grateful heart, I wish you a Happy Thanksgiving.  My prayer is for readers to accept the love and warmth of Jesus through His Word more than my own. He changes everything and when you ask Him to be your Savior, you open up a world of adventure, of depth, of a never-ending hunger to know Him more.

     Remember to thank Him for your blessings. Stop to pray before your meals, before you get out of bed and before you go to sleep. Acknowledge His presence throughout the day, constantly asking Him to guide, to teach to open your heart. Praise Him!

Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and praise His name. Psalm 100:4

All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God. 2 Corinthians 4:15

     Thank you for reading this blog. It opens my heart to new possibilities, to new hope for more futures filled with His love.

Jesus,

Be with each person reading this today. Let them feel Your great love for them. Comfort those who are lonely. Be with those who are grieving. Support those who are worried and anxious. Fill our hearts with peace and gratefulness

In Jesus name,

Amen



Enjoy this long holiday weekend and please come back on Monday!  Happy Thanksgiving!

A Change of Clothes

     Watch for God this week. As we move into the holidays, remember what is most valued, what events will make the most memories, what will give you a grateful heart? Look for ways to brighten someone’s day, to sneak a bit of kindness into someone’s life, to encourage rather than discourage.

     God is moving all around us and He sees you, right where you are. Where is He asking you to love, to comfort, to pray? The opportunities will be made clear as we ask Him to be with us each day, throughout our days.

     Are you upset with someone? Seek forgiveness. Show mercy. Build up your spouse, your friend, your child, your co-worker. I need some work on what my friend calls our “sand-paper” people. We all have them.

     Praying for those we find difficult, puts them in a new perspective. Dig deeper, try harder, give willingly and cheerfully. I need these reminders today as we move into extended family time over the next month.  I encourage you to listen for God’s words, more than your own.

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Colossians 3:12

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.  James 3;13

     Clothe ourselves in compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience?  I definitely need a change of clothes, and a reminder that I am dearly loved by Jesus Christ. His compassion knows no bounds.

Father,

Teach us to follow Your Son and his ways. Help us to be different, to act in wise ways, to wear the spiritual clothes of Your choosing. We need You!

In Jesus name,

Amen

Grateful Hearts

     'Tis the season to be thankful. What are you grateful for today? Good health? A roof over your head? Enough food to nourish your body? A loving, spouse, friend, child or neighbor? Look around and appreciate what you have. Look for the blessings as you go through your day and offer blessings to those around you.

     A simple compliment, a smile, a hug, a phone call, a card or a pat on the back. Blessings can come in small packages and kind words. They can be offered easily when we look for opportunities. How can you and I brighten the life of another?

Do to others what you would have them do to you. Luke 6:21

     The “golden rule,” the verse above has been labeled. Look for the best in others and give them the benefit of the doubt. We don’t know what goes on in another’s life or in their heart. Encourage, appreciate, be kind and gentle, and we will fulfill the wishes of God.

     Be grateful and pass it on.

Lord,

We come to You with praise and a grateful heart. Help us to appreciate all we have, to look for the best in others, to humble ourselves, to look for opportunities. Show us how, where and when.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Here I Am Lord

     Have you heard this before? “God does not call qualified people. He qualifies the people He calls?” Just like Moses and so many others in the Bible, we can believe we are not enough, not gifted, have too many flaws, to be used by God. Moses had a speech impediment and went into exile for 40 years before God called him to lead all of Israel.

     Gideon was the weakest man from the smallest group of men and God called him a “mighty warrior.” Peter spoke and acted before thinking. (I can relate) Paul wanted to arrest and kill Christians before God transformed his heart and turned him into the greatest evangelist of all time.

     Give your life to Christ and He will give you exactly what you need, in exactly the right way, at exactly the perfect time to witness for Him. Scary? Yup. But He gives us His strength, His power, His Word, His Spirit. Now that gives us confidence in Him!

     Go and serve! He needs you. He will qualify you with His mighty hand.

Now may the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, the Great Shepherd of the sheep, equip you with everything good for doing His will, and may He work in us what is pleasing to Him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen Hebrews 13:20-21

I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being. Ephesians 3:16

Father,

It is amazing to us how You can use us to do Your work. You are sovereign. You are Creator. You are omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent and yet you have designed us to be a part of Your everlasting plan. Give us the strength, power and qualities to do Your bidding.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Home

     I still miss my childhood home. I was one of the lucky ones to have a safe home with loving parents. After my dad died when I was fourteen, my mom and I become best friends. Even as an adult out on my own, I often ran back home to mom, for words of wisdom, for loving arms, and a listening ear, not to mention enjoying my favorite comfort foods.

     Home is where our hearts reside. My mom was in the hospital dying on my wedding day. It was the best and most difficult day of my life. God provided a safe home with my husband at just the right time. Mom died the following day and I still miss her after more than 30 years.

     I relish these days as a mom and grandma. My parents did not live to meet our daughters, and I recognize and appreciate these days. I pray that our daughters, their husbands and children will consider our home as “home” to them as well.

     And one day soon, we will go to our final home in heaven. I long for the day when I will see my mom and dad, my grandparents, and my friends who have gone on ahead. How about you? I pray you have safe and loving places on earth. Our forever home is with Jesus.

     He is here with us now and He provides what we may be missing.  He offers comfort, protection, nourishment for the soul and unconditional love. If you didn’t experience the safe, loving arms of your earthly parents, or are grieving a lost sense of “home,” run to Jesus, our eternal best friend, parent and Savior forevermore.

Instead, they were longing for a better country-a heavenly one. Therefore, God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them. Hebrews 11:6

For we know that if the earthly tent in which we live is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal home in heaven, not built by human hands. 2 Corinthians 5:1

But our citizenship is in heaven and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 3:20

Jesus,

Thank You for the promise of our heavenly home. You gave up so much to give us a way to be with You forever. Thank You for the love You place around us as we live our lives on earth. We are grateful.

Amen

Do Not Grow Weary

     Grief, loneliness, too much or too little time or money or responsibility can bring about a state of weariness to our bodies, minds and spirits. As we consider God’s voice and His heart, we can find quiet times and learn to listen to what is most important, and we can make wise decisions on where and how to move next.

     When weariness sets in, ask God to give you His peace. Run back to Jesus time and time again. A relationship with Jesus is number one. He wants us to know Him intimately, to serve cheerfully, to find peace in our daily lives. Come to Him when you are weary and remember, the good we do in His name glorifies Him and brings joy to our weary souls.

“Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9

     Come to Jesus each day. Let Him comfort you and give you peace as you set out to do His work. The good we do in His name will reap a harvest of blessings for others and for us!

Lord,

You do bless us as we serve. Remind us to stay focused on what You want, not to overdo or become overwhelmed, but to do Your work in the ways You choose. Comfort us today.

In Jesus name,

Amen

A Cheerful Giver

     I believe our service and our love in the name of Jesus will follow us into heaven. And many of our good works, maybe the ones we are most proud of, may not count. A tough lesson to learn is to remember that God loves a cheerful giver.

     The giving we do grudgingly or out of guilt, or so that others will notice, rather than to bring glory to Jesus, God will not use. Allowing the Spirit to move us into serving with our time, our talents and our treasures will bless us and shine the true light of Christ.

     Over the years I have given to others with a sigh, with a weariness, with a bad attitude. You, too? Keep a cheerful heart as you give to His causes. He wants our hearts to be so full of His love, we can’t help giving it away, even when it comes with sacrifice.

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

Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly, or under compulsion for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7

Jesus,

Continue to teach us Your ways. We love you and want to give with a cheerful heart in the ways You desire. Change our hearts and attitudes to serve You without tiring.

Amen

Discipline and Discipleship

     Jesus calls Himself, “the vine,” in Scripture. I love this analogy. When we are rooted deep in Him, we can bear much fruit. The fragrance and ripeness of healthy fruit increases its value and nourishment. As we grow in the vine of Christ, we, too, may bear much good fruit for the glory of God.

     Listen to these words of Jesus.

“I am the vine and you are the branches. Remain in Me and I in you and you will bear much fruit. Apart from Me, you can do nothing. John 15:5

     Just as an avid gardener, prunes his trees and bushes, so does God prune and pluck things out of our lives that are not healthy and good. His discipline does not always feel good. It may not match what we believe we want and need, but when we follow Him and allow Him to cut off some unhealthy branches, we will blossom!

     We did not appreciate discipline from our earthly parents at the time, but later, we realize it was meant for good.

No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:11

     Is God asking you to give up a bad habit, to walk away from temptation, to change a life-long attitude, to close an unhealthy relationship, to change the channel? Lean on Him, trust His discipline. And we will bear the fruit of the One who loves us. Here is what the fruit looks like to the world around us. Let it be said of us!

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23

     As you read through the list above, ask God which fruit needs a bit of trimming, some Godly discipline, some good new growth. Don’t be surprised, when you pray, He may bring some challenges to grow you in His good fruit. Stay rooted in the vine.

Lord,

Teach us to appreciate Your many ways of discipline. They are designed, always, for our good and for our growth. You are the master gardener. Let the pruning begin!

In Jesus name,

Amen

Discipline and Discipleship

     This week we are talking about God’s discipline, the ways He challenges us through the Words of Scripture and through prayer and through experience.  He also teaches us through others. I have learned so many valuable lessons from my brothers and sisters in the faith. And God has a sense of humor, too!

     I remember being overwhelmed when it was my year to serve Thanksgiving dinner. Full disclosure, another spiritual gift that has not been given to me is the gift of hospitality. I marvel at those who love to entertain, whose door is always open to others, and miraculously, seem to have food available to serve at any time!

     Even though we have unique spiritual gifts and personality types, God does ask us to move out of our comfort zones from time to time. I was worrying and grumbling and, as God often does, two Scriptures just “happened” to be in front of me during that time. 

Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Romans 12:13

Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 1 Peter 4:9

     Well, that stopped me in my tracks and my irritable mood. “Practice hospitality,” and “without grumbling,” spoke to my heart. I made it through  with a changed attitude and a heart to serve..

     Understanding what God’s will is can guide us into the most difficult of tasks, even the ones that don’t necessarily fit with grace and, yes, humor.

Lord,

Grumbling about my lack doesn’t help anything. Keep us filled with positive attitudes and humor as we struggle with so much. The struggles are often unnecessary. You change our thoughts and our abilities to move ahead in Your plans.

In Jesus name,

Amen