Peace and Merry Christmas!

 

     The fourth and last purple candle, often called the "Angels Candle," represents peace and will be lit on this Sunday, the last in Advent.

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men." Luke 2:13–14

     On Christmas Eve, which falls on the last Sunday of Advent this year, the white center candle may be lit. This candle is called the "Christ Candle" and represents the life of Christ that come into the world. The color white represents purity. Christ is the sinless, spotless, pure Savior. Those who receive Christ as Savior are washed of their sins and made whiter than snow:

"Come now, let us settle the matter," says the Lord. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool." Isaiah 1:8

Lord,

Let this season bring hope, faith, joy and peace to our hearts. Give us reminders of the great blessings you bring each day as we look forward to the New Year with anticipation. Bring us closer to You.

In Jesus name,

Amen

 

Merry Christmas!  Happy New Year!  You are loved.  See you in January!

Glorious Joy

 

     Deep joy is a promise to believers. It is available to us along with the other fruit of the Spirit. (See Galatians 5:22-23) Joy in Jesus does not depend on our circumstances or even our feelings and emotions. It is the constant presence of Jesus within. Feel His joy in your spirit today. Let the joy be complete and steadfast throughout the rest of your life. Jesus brings spiritual joy.

I have told you this so that My joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. John 15:11

     Believe, just believe and experience spiritual joy, deep and rich and overflowing.

Though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy. 1 Peter 1:8

     Let’s ask the Holy Spirit to fill us with that inexpressible and glorious joy. It is beyond earthly boundaries, heaven-sent.

Jesus,

We do ask You and Your Holy Spirit to fill us with the deepest joy that only You provide. We pray for our hurting world, that You would come into the hearts and minds of those who do not yet know You. Let Your joy shine in our lives so others may see You.

Amen

Consider It Pure Joy

 

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance> let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:2-4

     The verses above are a challenge to us. The testing of our faith through trials and suffering? Perseverance through times of suffering often seems utterly impossible. The tears flow, the anxiety appears time and time again. We fret and fume. We ache for relief. We pray for a miracle. We pray for peace. We long for comfort and hope. And somehow, we persevere. Some days are easier than others, as we place one unsteady foot in front of the other. The wisdom of God grows slowly but surely as we face our trials head on and persevere through the wait.

     God listens as we cry out to Him. The verses challenge us to place our focus on Jesus. To trust Him and believe we will get through this. There will be a purpose and a plan and He WILL work this for good and for His glory. Place your faith in Him and offer it all into His mighty hands, the hands that hold the whole world as He continues to fight our battles and bring us to victory.

     May those who are suffering in this season, feel His presence, believe in His protection, find hope and find love.

Father,

Please give comfort to those suffering right now. Surround them with a hedge of protection and give them comfort and hope in You. Fill us with that deep spiritual joy that only comes from Jesus.

Amen

Joy and Strength

 

     Joy. Have you experienced joy? Where do you find joy? Is it elusive and rare? Joy-filled times in my life are etched forever in my mind. A new bicycle. Dancing until the wee hours of the morning. Weekends with good friends. Long summer days. The times I still had my mom and dad around to love me unconditionally. The day I said, “I do.” The births of our daughters and watching them grow. Their weddings along with loving and spending time with our grandkids. The list is endless, isn’t it? Joy-filled times are most often found as we share life with friends and family and with our true love, if we are lucky enough to have them.

     But Biblical joy draws us deeper. Jesus-type joy is not rare or elusive. It is available each and every day. Deep-seeded joy grows in our life with Christ, as we are rooted in Him. If everything in life is falling apart, Jesus is there to help put it back together. He is here, there, everywhere. He is near. He is available and we will be with Him one day forever and ever. Let this joy give you strength. This is a favorite of mine:

“This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10b

     You are walking on holy ground with Jesus. Let His deep kind of joy fill you with strength to take on the day. His joy is your strength.

Jesus,

Your joy is soul-deep and available each day. Fill us up with spiritual joy as we go about our tasks today and teach us to savor the moments of earthly joy as we travel through life.

Amen

Advent Brings Joy

 

     The season of Advent brings Joy. Yesterday was the third Sunday of Advent when the pink, or rose-colored candle is lit. This pink candle is customarily called the "Shepherds Candle," and it represents joy:

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. (Luke 2:8–11, NIV

     I pray you will find joy as we anticipate and prepare for Christmas. We find it in the eyes of our young children, in the hearts of family and friends, in the memories we savor and the memories to come. Treasure each moment.

     Ponder the ways of God over this time and picture the majesty of our God. He offers new life now and forever and all He asks is that we believe in His Son, Jesus, in his birth, life, death and resurrection from the dead.

     One perfect God was born in a manger. One perfect man took the blame. He suffered the consequences of a fallen world. He took it all on the cross, over many hours of excruciating pain and agony. And He lives today. I pray you will give Christ a chance and open your hearts to Him. The gift is there waiting for you. Is it time to receive it? The answer waits in your longing heart. The fear of death can be vanquished forever and your life can be transformed with peace and joy forevermore. 

     Ponder. Treasure. Marvel. Pray. Find joy. He is real and He is waiting for you.

For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

Jesus,

Thank You for Your saving grace that offers us eternal life. I pray all those who are turning away from You will open their hearts to Your truth. This world is wasting away and falling away from You and we ache with sadness at all that is to come. We pray many will come to salvation.

Amen

 

Ask, Seek, Knock

 

     68 years of life brings perspective. God has been faithful. There were times I doubted His goodness, or lost sight of Him altogether. Funny thing is, it turns out those were exactly the times He was working behind the scenes. Darkness often leads to searching. Light appears. A rainbow peeks through the clouds. We ask questions and when we seek, we find.

“Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you.” Matthew 7:7

     Wondering about God? Is He there? Can He help? Search the Scriptures if you are seeking answers. Ask God and He will bring light to the darkness. Knock and Jesus will come into your heart. His presence is available 24/7. The path for you will be clear in time. He is right there, working for you.

He will not let your foot slip-He who watches over you will not slumber. Psalm 121:3

Find faith and hope again.

Father,

We seek You. We ask for Your help. We knock on Your door. You never slumber. You are there. You watch over us and make a way for us through the darkness into Your glorious light.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Trust In Him At All Times

 

     God loves it when we reach out to Him. Whether we are busy, or struggling with pain, or just getting through our ordinary days, He longs to be a part of it, all of it We end up worrying, fretting, moving through the days, trying to figure everything out on our own.

     He is there. Ask for help and guidance. It can be a simple prayer on the way to work, “God I can’t see the way. Help me,” or “Jesus, give me peace right in this situation,” or, “Give me the right words.”

     As we release our burdens to Him, and ask for His guidance, can we trust Him to work? Yes! He is working ahead of us, making a plan, finding people, finding answers, getting us through the pain with His love and His word, giving comfort and compassion.

     When the dark clouds are hovering nearby, seek His light and His hope beyond it all. His light will reappear, often in the most unexpected ways. His love will wash away any fear. He has conquered everything for us and He understands.

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are, yet He did not sin. Hebrews 4:15

     The one and only sinless man, tempted in every way, the one who suffered all of those temptations, the trials, the horrors of evil on His very own shoulders for you and me. He gets it. He is above all else and He can and will figure it all out, all of it, because He understands. Trust Him. Have faith.

Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge. Psalm 62:8

Surely God is my salvation. I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord Himself is my strength and my defense. He has become my salvation. Isaiah 12:2

Father,

Give us the ability to trust You with every fiber of our being, no matter what. Even when we can’t see the road ahead, we look to You as You make a new way for us.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Faith From First to Last

 

     God’s love, His faithfulness, His grace and mercy will never fail. He will never, ever leave you. His promises are eternal and all will come to pass. His plans for you are good and His will is pleasing. All He asks of us is to trust Him, to have faith in Him above all else.

For in the gospel, the righteousness of God is revealed-a righteousness that is by faith from first to last-just as it is written, “The righteous will live by faith.” Romans 1:17

     We become right with God when we believe in Jesus as Savior. That is all it takes. The verse above tells us. It is all about faith, from first to last. Faith is the foundation of it all. God will remain faithful to you and to me. Let’s trust Him above all else with faith after faith. When doubt and fear rise up, have faith. When grief overwhelms, have faith. When you are lost, have faith.

     Our energetic, sweet, handsome gramdsons slept over recently.  After Gramps read them, “Green Eggs and Ham” time after time, one of them said, “It just gets funnier and funnier every time.” There is nothing sweeter in the world than the sound of their belly laughs.

     Right after that, Gavin taught me a lesson about faith.  It was time for bed. I tucked them into their bunk beds ready for a story and prayers. I talked about Jesus in the manger, how God had come from heaven to live a life here on earth, how the angels surrounded Him and the shepherds and wise men worshipped Him, ready to share the good news.

     Gavin stopped me and said, “Nana, do you know what the best thing is?” I askd, “No, what?”  He replied, “It’s a true story!”  The faith of a child. Jesus told us just that.

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14

     Have faith. It’s true!

Father,

The gift of faith in You is a miracle that will keep us secure until we reach heaven. Show us Your love as we continue to trust and have faith in Your Son, Jesus and in His name we pray.

Amen

Lean On Him

 

     Fear and worry, sadness and grief, anticipation and joy, depression and hopelessness, elation and happiness, contentment and peace, unrest and sleeplessness, love and desire, trust and loyalty, mistrust and rejection. Did any of these words hit home with you? There are times when my emotions hit several of the above within a twenty-four-hour time frame.

     God created us to experience desire and hope, to walk through grief and sorrow. In fact, our Father in heaven, sent His Son to experience all of it during His thirty-three years on earth. Throughout the Scriptures, we watch as Jesus weeps, (John 11:35) as He sweats blood in His agonizing prayer before His death on the cross, (Luke 22;44) as He displays anger at the money-changers in the holy temple, (John 2:15) as He sighs deeply, (Matthew 8:12) and, of course, as He suffers intensely for hours and hours on the cross. (See the Gospels and Hebrews 2:9)

     Is is meeting you right where you are, right now, this moment. Remember Jesus experienced those diseases, agonies, sufferings and sins for all of us. He endured it for the joy set before Him, which is us! (Hebrews 12:2) He overcame them all through His death and resurrection. Wherever you are emotionally, Jesus has felt it Himself and experienced it for you and me. Tell Him all about it. Let Him take the burden from you and replace it with His abiding peace and joy. Trust Him with the next step. Trust Him with your tears. Trust Him with your future. His agony brought about the joy of our salvation.

Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to Him for God is our refuge. Psalm 62:8

Let the morning bring me word of Your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in You. Show me the way I should go, for to You I entrust my life.  Psalm 143:8

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

Lord,

Teach me to trust You with my life and the lives of those I love. Listen to my prayer and make my paths straight into Your will today. Be my refuge and strength.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Advent Brings Faith

 

     Yesterday, on the second Sunday in December, the second purple candle was lit. This second candle represents faith. Some traditions call this the "Bethlehem Candle," symbolizing Christ's humble beginnings:

"This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." (Luke 2:12, NIV)

     Again, the prophets foretold the birthplace of the coming Messiah.

But you Bethlehem, Ephrathah, though you are small among the class of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel whose origins are from of old. Micah5:2

     No other book or person has foretold the future with 100 percent accuracy. Over 300 prophecies came true at the first coming of Jesus and even more are written about His second coming. These prophecies were written over a span of thousands of years and written by multiple authors. Have faith! Our faith pleases Him.

And without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. Hebrews 11:6

See the baby in the manger. The Messiah has come brining good tidings of great joy!

Father,

Our faith grows as we study Your word. Jesus is the word of God in the flesh and we praise You for the gift of faith.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Come Lord Jesus

 

     The guarantee of our heavenly home should provide all we need to get through all that life brings, the good, the bad and the ugly. Remember, we live in a fallen world. Even with our sins wiped clean in God’s sight, we will remain fallen, frail human beings until we receive our new bodies and live forever in heaven.

     The earth is deteriorating along with humanity. The Bible describes all that is happening right now in our world, in great detail. None of it surprises God. The earth waits right along with us.

For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. Romans 8:19

We know that the whole creation has been groaning, as in the pains of childbirth, (Matthew 24) right up to the present time.

Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the first-fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons and daughters, , the redemption of our bodies. Romans 8;22-23

     The creation waits eagerly. The birds rise each morning with a song. The sunflowers turn their stunning faces to the son. Let’s do the same. We wait eagerly. Some days seem impossible to navigate. But, wait!  We have hope. Always hope. And our Savior offers all we need to get through each and every single day.

     The older we get, the more we anticipate heaven, but even the younger generation should keep an eternal perspective. The end of this short life is only the beginning of all things new and perfected. Wait in eager anticipation. He is coming again to set up a new heaven and a new earth for you and for me. Come, Lord Jesus!

Lord,

The anticipation continues throughout our lives as we draw ever nearer to heaven. We eagerly await seeing those who have gone before us. We miss them deeply. But one day soon, we will see You and we will see them and the reunion will never end.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Above the Clouds

 

     Faith, belief, trust. Jesus asks us to believe in Him, to trust Him, to have faith in Him above all else, to be filled with an everlasting hope for the future. 

Though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and even though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy. 1 Peter 1:8

Maybe you have heard of Joni Eareckson Tada.  Over 50 years ago, as a teenager, she had a diving accident that left her as a quadriplegic. She has given her life to serving Christ.Through the years she has inspired millions. She is an amazing artist, painting painstakingly with her mouth. She is an author, and an advocate for those living with disabilities. Listen to this perspective from someone who has suffered so much

“I want to stay in the habit of ‘glancing’ at my problems and ‘gazing’ at my Lord.”

     Beautiful. Look above the clouds in your life to the glory of the Son. You can trust His promises. You can have faith that He knows what He is doing. Maybe like Joni, He will use your struggles to show His glory. What a privilege.

Since then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Colossians 3:1

     When we look over our lives, when we are seated in heaven, the things we did for Christ will remain. Trust, believe, have faith in the One who is worthy and the One filling us with hope..

Father,

Teach us to gaze at Jesus with complete faith and trust. This short life is meant to be lived for Him. He is the missing piece. We were made for Him.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Treasure These Things

 

If you haven’t listened to the song, “Mary Did You Know?” I highly encourage you to do so. Many have sung it over the years. I love all versions and the song never fails to leave me with goosebumps and eyes filled with tears.

    Mary had an unexpected visit with an angel. Gabriel gave her the news straight from the mouth of God. Mary was highly favored in God’s sight. This young virgin would have the privilege of carrying the Son of God and raising Him. It was impossible for her to comprehend this message, nor understand all that was to come

     . Can you imagine her thoughts as this precious child grew within her womb, as she raised her face to the sky above the manger brightly lit by the star, witnessing the worship of the shepherds and the wise men, along with the full glory of the angelic host?

But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Luke 2:19

     It is hard to fathom the thoughts and ponderings of Joseph and Mary as they raised their young Son. There is little written about the childhood years of Jesus, but as they traveled among their community from Jerusalem to Nazareth, Jesus stayed behind. He was twelve years old.

     When His parents realized He was not among them, they were worried and went back to find Him. Jesus told them they should not have been surprised to find Him in His Father’s house. The others in the temple had been astonished at His maturity and understanding.

The child’s mother and father marveled at what was said about Him. Luke 2:33

     Let’s take time over this season of anticipation and hope, to treasure all of these things in our hearts and ponder them, to marvel in all of God’s ways. How can we possibly comprehend all of the marvelous works of our God? After all, His own mother and father, His sisters and brothers, and His disciples could not anticipate all that was to come.

     Jesus continues to provide moments to be treasured, insight to be pondered, and acts in which we can marvel. Treasure the moments He gives you today.

Lord,

We can’t thank You enough for the word of God that brings all of our human frailties into focus. As we ponder Your birth, and treasure the truths of who You are, as we marvel at our salvation and all that is to come, let us praise You from the mountaintops!  Jesus Christ is born!  Hallelujah!

Amen

Hang on to Hope

 

     With the uncertainties in life, there is hope. Hope remains. At the end of the struggle, with the easing of grief, with remission after treatment, with recovery, with reconciliation and forgiveness, there is hope. At the end of this earthly life, all of our longings and hopes will be realized.

     In the meantime, hang on. Hope is there. Anchor yourself with hope today.

We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. It enters the inner sanctuary behind the curtain. Hebrews 6:19

     Hang on to the anchor of hope in your soul. Jesus is guiding you through the uncertainties and struggles of life. He will never let you go. Your foundation is secure with Him.

Jesus,

Sometimes it’s hard to hang on to the hope you offer. Comfort and strengthen those with uncertain futures. You know the number of our days and we hang on to You.

Amen

 

Advent Brings Hope

 

     Yesterday was the first Sunday in Advent. The season of anticipation and preparation is upon us. A  purple candle on the advent wreath is lit. This candle is typically called the "prophecy candle" or “hope candle.”  The prophet, Isaiah, as well as many others in the Old Testament foresaw the coming Messiah. He fills the world with hope.  a

Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.  Isaiah 7:14

     This first candle represents a hope, an expectation, an anticipation of the coming Messiah. The prophets of old longed for His coming. The disciples and the followers of Jesus saw those prophecies fulfilled in their lifetimes. They walked with Him and talked with Him and He will come again one day soon.

     In the meantime, there is hope. We celebrate His first coming during this wonderful season of hope.

“But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in You.” Psalm 39:7

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance of what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1

Lord,

We wait for You in hope. Prepare us for this season as we get ready to celebrate the miraculous birth of Jesus. Renew our hearts this season with the gift of hope. We also wait with hope for Your second coming. .

Amen

The Reason

 

     You may have seen or heard about the Advent tradition of reading through the Gospel of Luke beginning on December 1^st with Chapter 1 and ending on Christmas Eve with Chapter 24. It is always a good idea to revisit the Gospels and travel along through the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus. There is no better time than in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

     Refreshing our memories on all of the details of the life of Christ will lift us up, and fill us with renewed anticipation and expectation and celebration of all He has done and all He will do throughout our lives, and for the life ahead in our forever home.

     Maybe these verses will whet your appetite for more.

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the City of David, a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in a manger.” Luke 2:10-12

     The Son of God and His humble beginnings, leading to a life of service and sacrifice, leading to our redemption as He was raised to new life. Behold! A child is born. Glory to God in the highest!

Father,

Your Son brought new life and joy into this dark world. The brilliant star lit the night sky and led the shepherds and the wise men as they came to the miraculous sight of Jesus. Never let us forget. We anticipate the celebration.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Listen

 

     This week we talked about ways to regain our peace, our joy and prioritize our time with God. Studying and reading the Bible. What a precious gift this is. The word of God is alive and necessary for us to follow.

With my lips I recount all the laws that come from Your mouth. I rejoice in following Your statutes as one rejoices in great riches. I delight in Your decrees. I will not neglect Your word. Psalm 119:13-16

     And we can pray.

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Romans 12:12

Pray continually. 1 Thessalonians 5:17.

This is the confidence we have in approaching God, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 1 John 5:14

     Finally, we can listen. The Holy Spirit of God resides within us as believers. The Spirit will open up the word of God to our hearts, will intercede with us when we don’t know how or what to pray and will relay God’s desires for us as we move through our days. We will notice His nudging, warning, guiding, teaching, and opening our eyes to opportunities. Listen to the voice within. The very Spirit of the living God is within you!

My sheep listen to My voice. I know them and they know Me. John 10:27

In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes with us with wordless groans. Romans 8:26

     Read, pray, listen. He is our Lord and Savior and He always leads us in the best, richest, most satisfying ways. He is life, life to the full, the abundant, blessed life. And He is ours! Sit with Him. Hear Him. Be filled with peace and joy and rest.

Lord Jesus,

Keep us steadfast and trusting. Keep us less busy in order to keep You in first place where You belong. Please let Your Spirit guide us today and every day until we reach our heavenly home.

Amen

Love God, Love Others

 

     I feel better already. Thanks for reading this week. The Holy Spirit tends to lead me to what I need and I needed these verses and reminders this week. We all do. Think about the lives of our grandparents and great-grandparents. Can you imagine them witnessing our world today? It is no wonder we become stressed or anxious. We move too fast, use screen-time too much, get stuck in traffic, and, whew, on and on it goes. It is easy to see why we often lose our way.

     Jesus asks us to love the Lord our God with all of our hearts, our souls and our strength. Jesus summed up the greatest commandments for us.

“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it; Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:36-40

     Loving God first. It encompasses everything important in life and eternity. That love encourages us to love ourselves and others. Losing your way? Put priorities in order. And others will recognize Jesus through our love.

By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. John 13:35

     Let Jesus change your heart into one of love, peace and joy.

Jesus,

Let others recognize us as Yours. Only placing You truly first in our lives will fill us to the brim until we overflow with Your Spirit. Help us find time to be with You.

Amen

 

Choose What Is Better

 

     Do you remember the story of the sisters, Mary and Martha? Company was coming to their home, including Jesus! Oh my. I don’t know if hospitality is your gift, but it is not mine. I would love to be the one sitting in a corner, talking to one person, hoping someone else is handling the cooking and cleaning. Fretting over company comes naturally to me.

     Mary sat at the feet of Jesus, worshipping, listening, savoring time to be near Him. Her sister, Martha? She was doing all of the preparing, all of the work. Busy, busy, busy.  Cooking, cleaning, slaving away all by herself. Well, you can imagine her emotions. I would feel the same way.

     Here is the conversation between Martha and Jesus.

But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to Him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!”

“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered. “You are worried and upset over many things, but few things are needed-or indeed, only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:40-42

     Jesus understood what needed to be done. He wants to be first, before all of “what we have to do!” Hospitality is a vital gift in the body of Christ. Welcoming, feeding, comforting, and opening our homes and churches are necessary and wonderful. But Christ reminds Martha of the first thing. Spending time with Him is most needed.

     Jesus, may be repeating your name, reminding you. Are you too busy with many things? Have you moved Jesus away from being the “better choice?”

Lord,

Keep us from becoming too busy with everything else. Show us how to sit at Your feet and listen and spend time with You and Your word. Help all of us to find the time, placing You first in our busy lives.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Come Away With Me For Awhile

 

     Jesus is talking to me about being still.  Let’s listen as we approach the Christmas season.

Then, because so many people were coming and going, that they did not even have a chance to eat, He said to them, “Come with Me by yourselves to a quiet place and rest for awhile.”  Mark 6:31

     Is life moving too quickly for you? Too much to do? Coming and going here and there? Too many details, social media, work, kids, Christmas preparations, life? I know the feeling. Even when we are not in our “too busy” mode, we find ourselves forgetting to spend time with Jesus.

     Our Lord is our place of peace and rest, the centerpiece of our souls. The details and scurrying can wait. In fact, He will help us move step by step in peace and joy, if we just let Him. He is our Rock, our Shepherd, our quiet place to rest.

     That sounds good to me right about now. You, too? Let Him take you by the hand, lead you to a quiet place to allow Him to nourish and refresh your soul. His word feeds our deepest needs. His love penetrates our weary hearts. His peace eases our distracted minds. Give it all to Him in a quiet place, even if it’s just for a few minutes.

     Let His peace wash over you as you sit in a quiet place and rest.

Lord,

Thank You for Scriptures that reminds us of all You have available to us. Keep us from being distracted from what should be the first things in life. Our very first and most vital need is to spend time with You. Lead us to that quiet place today.

In Jesus name,

Amen

 

Blessings and Grace

 

And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 2 Corinthians 9:8

     Take in the blessings of God this week. Allow Him to fill the holes in your heart and bless you in all things at all times. Jesus loves you to the moon and back and beyond the stars. After all, He has washed your sins as white as snow. Take that love and the blessings of God and give some away. Count your blessings on Thanksgiving Day and every day. And don’t forget to pray for others and allow others to pray for you.

And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you because of the surpassing grace God has given you. Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift.  2 Corinthians 9:14-15

     God’s gift of grace is meant to be shared. And prayer changes things. Prayer opens hearts and heals wounds and gives peace. I thank God for each one of you and I pray that God’s gifts be given to you abundantly so that you may overflow with joy.

Happy Thanksgiving! See you Monday.

Dear Lord,

Thank you for Your indescribable gifts. We take each one as a blessing from above and we ask to be given opportunities to give to others.

Amen

Hoopla, Heartache, Hope

 

     Well, let’s admit it. Along with the delightful, smells, tastes, sounds and anticipation of the season, there is more. More stress, more busyness, more annoying relatives. There are the gifts that don’t work, that don’t fit, that we don’t need. We overeat, we over shop and wo overdo.

     Take a break before the hectic days and the hoopla begin and remember the One above watching over us, above all else He is there.

Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things.  Colossians 3:2

  This time of year is especially difficult for those grieving the loss of loved ones. Jesus is there to comfort, to find hope, to remind us of His great gifts. Remember the blessings and, remember, there is a great cloud of witnesses awaiting us in heaven.

     What do you think? Can we rise above the craziness and focus on the hope that awaits? Shine with hope this season. Let’s focus on the love around us and share memories of loved ones waiting for us and the One who came for us. It’s all about Him after all. He can change everything.

Jesus,

Calm our spirits as we get ready to celebrate the loveliest and purest gift ever given, the life You sacrificed for us, offering us grace and forgiveness. Keep our focus on You and on sharing all of the noble gifts You give to us. Please comfort those who mourn.

Amen

The Aroma of Christ

 

     The sights, smells and sounds are upon us. Leaves have fallen. Christmas lights and displays are ready to greet us. The smell of pine will soon infiltrate our homes. Many of us will savor the smell and taste of our Thanksgiving feasts. I love this time of the year and look forward to decorating, baking, spending time with loved ones. Picking out gifts and delighting the young ones around us add to the holiday anticipation.

     What about the reason for the season? What about the anticipation of celebrating the miraculous birth of Jesus? The sights and sounds of the choir of angels greeting the shepherds as they tended their flocks? The realization that the Savior of the world was wrapped in swaddling clothes? What were the sights and sounds and smells of the manger where he slept?  The surroundings were common, but the magnitude of the event, astounding!

     Did you know we can be the aroma of Christ? Imagine that as this season engulfs our minds and hearts, as we become distracted from the true meaning of Christmas.

But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of Him everywhere.  2 Corinthians 2:14

Jesus,

Help us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of You throughout this season. We celebrate You. Born of a woman and the Son of God! Sent to save us all. We look forward to celebrating Your birth. Help our focus to remain on You throughout this busy season filled with sights, sounds and smells of the holidays.

Amen

Spirit and Truth

 

     Being a Christian should make others want to be a Christian. Somehow Christians have the reputation for being judgmental, for bombarding others with rules or pointing out what others are doing wrong. Sometimes we push non-believers away. On the other hand, sharing the message of Christ with only grace may leave out truth. Is there a balance?

God is Spirit and His worshippers must worship in the Spirit and in truth. John 4:24

     Let the Holy Spirit guide you on how and when to speak up about Jesus. Some will listen and will be open to truth. Others will not.

And I will ask the Father and He will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever-the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept Him, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him. But you know Him for He lives with you and will be in you. John 14:16-17

     Lean on God’s wisdom. He will guide you. Show the love and joy of Jesus. Shine with His light. Someone may ask you about the joy within you and the Spirit of truth will give you the words. Some will hear. Remember the Holy Spirit does the changing after someone believes. Don’t focus on the bad, when they do not yet know the goodness of Christ.

Father,

Take away fear and discouragement. You put people in our lives for a reason. Let our lives count for You. Show us how to share Your grace and Your truth.

In Jesus name,

Amen

Think On These Things

 

     The Bible tells us, in the last days evil will be called good and good evil. God is pure and holy, blameless and true. Our culture is filled with evil, but our culture calls it good. If it feels good do it. Lust, sexual immorality, brawls and violence, shootings and anger, drugs and porn, all permeate our society. None of it is pleasing to our God.

     Listen to these words of what to expect before Jesus returns.

But mark this; there will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure, rather than lovers of God-having a form of godliness, but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them. 2 Timothy 3:1-5

     Quite a list, isn’t it? We want to believe things will get better. Tolerate everything and let everyone do their own thing. The Bible is clear. Evil has to run its course. The times will get worse before Jesus returns. But, never forget, light shines brightest in the darkness. If we spend more time in the world than with our God, which voices will speak the loudest?Think on these things.

Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things. Philippians 4:8

     Focus on Jesus and let Him transform your life into something admirable, right, lovely and excellent. He changes everything.

Lord,

Keep us from becoming frightened or filled with dread and doubt. You knew the end of the story before you created the earth and man. Change our hearts and our minds so that they may be filled with what pleases You and not the world around us. Help us to be pure, lovely and admirable in Your sight.

Amen

Pray For Others

 

     Never underestimate the power of prayer. We have a hunger to save lost souls. The Bible is clear. There is a heaven and a hell. Jesus spoke more about hell than anyone in Scripture. Our souls will live forever in one place or the other and the choice is ours.  Jesus tells us not to be afraid, even of death.

Do not be afraid of those who kill the body, but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the one who can destroy both body and soul in hell. Matthew 10:28

     Pray for others. Look for ways to share your faith. Watch for opportunities Jesus places in your life. God maneuvers the right people to fill in for Him at just the right time. He might choose you and use you today. You have a testimony. You have a story. It is yours to share. Here are some verses you can pray for those who do not believe.

I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which He has called you, the riches of His glorious inheritance in His holy people, and His incomparably great power for us. Ephesians 1:17-19

     You may plant a seed. Someone else may water it and the Holy Spirit will continue the work.

Jesus,

Give us a chance to save others with Your free gift of salvation. You are the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through You. Those are Your words. Give us courage in these dark days.

Amen

A Simple Prayer

 

     Have you confessed the hope you have in Christ? Here is a promise for all of us.

If you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9

     Confess with your mouth and believe in your heart. So simple and we make it so complicated. Open your heart and seek Him. He is standing at the door of your heart. If someone you know wants to receive Christ, ask them to pray after you:

Dear Jesus,

I believe in my heart that you came to earth, you died for our sins, you were buried and rose again from the dead. Forgive me, Lord, for anything I have done against You. I receive you now as my Lord and Savior. Guide my life so I may follow You.

Amen

     That’s all it takes. Can you imagine the wonder of helping someone get to heaven? What a privilege. What an honor to bring glory to God. Amen!

Good News!

 

     What is the Gospel message? If someone asked you how to receive Jesus, would you know what to say? We know it is a gift. We know He died for us. In Paul’s letter to the city of Corinth, there is a clear message for us to share.

By this Gospel you are saved if you hold firmly to the words I preached to you. Otherwise you have believed in vain. For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance-that Christ died for us according to the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.  1 Corinthians 15:2-4

    Believe that Jesus is Lord of all, that He sacrificed Himself on a cross for our sins, that He was buried and rose again. That’s it. Ask Him for forgiveness, turn from your sins and accept His free gift. It is hard to believe many will turn away from this offer. Jesus suffered for you and for me. He suffered more than any of us. He moved from glory to be one of us.

     Share the good news. He does not want to lose one.

The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9

Jesus,

Your good news brings tidings of great joy. We want to sprinkle seeds of hope to others. Let that be our greatest desire until we reach heaven.

Amen

Gratitude

 

     Today we take our upside down, last is first, less is more, honor in humility, sacrifice in praise, worth in weakness, believer’s world into the topic of gratitude. Have you read, Footprints in the Sand? Looking back I recognize those times when Jesus carried me even without me recognizing His presence.  I am still learning, but even during troubled times, I thank Him. When there are no answers, I thank Him for working. When things look hopeless, I know He will bring hope.

     My emotions and my need for control try to take over. I want to make it better, fix the problem, lash out at someone or something. The learning will never end until we arrive in heaven. Thank Him when the world is closing in. Believe in His timing when your patience is wearing thin. Thank Him when the circumstances seem impossible to meet. Practice gratitude. God’s grace is enough to get through the day, the hour, minute-by-minute.

     Can we learn to stop in the midst of the day to thank God for our ordinary tasks and duties as we perform them one more time? Can we take a moment away from the seemingly endless urgent details to savor our most valuable God? Can we thank Him for working when we don’t see His hand?

     I thank God for each one of you today, no matter where you are in your journey with Jesus. He hears you. He will carry you. Give Him all of your cares with deep thanksgiving.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus, Philippians 4:6-7

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.  1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Dear Jesus,

We find gratitude in our hearts today for Your love, for Your mighty hand at work, for Your grace and mercy, for our loved ones and our homes, for our food and for our very lives. Thank you for the breath of life today, and we thank You for what You will do tomorrow. We wait in expectation and hope.

Amen

Enjoy the weekend.  See you back here on Monday.