NEEDING DIRECTION

In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:6 (KJV)

At sixty years old, I fled an abusive marriage; moved alone to a new town, seventy-seven miles away from my original residence. Rescuers had given me furniture and the courts were in my favor, so I had a little income.

Weeks later, in my new home near my daughter and her family, I complained because my TV channels were different—couldn't find favorite programs. Then while driving around, I got lost. I didn't know the area and I was totally confused. I called my daughter, requesting she trace the call and find out where I was.

Later, I dropped into a chair, totally whipped by my circumstances and tears filled my eyes. I wanted to go home. But I didn't want to go back to him. Confusion and sadness became my daily companion.

I prayed, "Oh Lord, you've delivered me from the lawyers, from the financial struggles and have brought me to this new safe place. Grant me wisdom and show me the way."

I talked with a Christian Counsellor, and my friend. After I shared all my facts, she advised. "You're not homesick for him, you are homesick for the familiar,  Make a point of getting to know all your home town, make notes for your TV and buy something new for your home, making it all yours.

I put sticky notes on the TV remote. My daughter and I went furniture shopping and bought a curio cabinet and I unpacked all my knick knacks and figurines. Then I decided I'd start with one new road a week and travel from one end of town to the other. 

Victoriously, the Lord and I conquered my new path.

Thank You, Lord, nothing is impossible for You. Amen and amen.

Ⓒ 2019 Lois Gosley

GOD WILL OPEN THE DOOR

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be open to you. 

Matthew 7:7 (RSV)

My father was a strong, hardworking business man. He loved his work and his family. I had just begun working as a public-school teacher when my father was diagnosed with cancer. I watched him struggle into the late stages of this disease as my loving mother and younger siblings fought daily against his burden. I prayed for God's direction.

I spent time with the Lord explaining my worries and inability to carry the physical and mental burdens, coupled with my teaching responsibilities. I felt like my hands were tied. I asked the Lord to give my mother respite, my father peace and me direction.

"I'm young, Lord," I said. "Let me carry most of the load for them."

The Lord spoke softly to me. "You ask, and  you will receive. You are young and able. I will give you the strength physically, mentally and emotionally to help your parents. I will help you carry the load."

My prayers were answered. My busy schedule opened up enough for me to be with my family and help. My worry dissipated, my energy level soared, and the Most-High God brought me peace.

Thank You, Heavenly Father, for always being there. You are always available when we ask for Your help. Amen

Ⓒ2019 Christy Struben

CELEBRATE!

 

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11 (NIV)

A nine-year-old child is impressionable, but truth is powerful, even at that age. Seventy-three years ago these verses were part of my instruction as our family celebrated Christmas. A couple of months later it led to my baptism.

 

Consider the power of the scene this passage relates. It was just an ordinary night. A group of shepherds were tending their sheep as usual. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared to them. What did the angel look like? It must have been glorious and full of light. The angel’s first concern was that they would be frightened, so he assured them he was bringing good news—even joyous news.

 

The heavenly news was that tonight, in a town near them, a Savior has been born. This Savior was none other than the Christ, the Promised One, the Messiah for whom the people of Israel had been waiting for centuries.

 

As soon as the news was delivered, a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel and praised God saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” Their celebration must have been awesome to behold!

 

How many years have you experienced the great joy that Christ brings? Though you can’t see them, know that the heavenly hosts are still celebrating. Let’s join them in spirit this season as we all give glory to God in the highest.

 

Lord Jesus, happy birthday! What a wonderful, joyous Savior you are!

DEPENDING ON GOD

". . . And your ears shall hear a word behind you saying, 'This is the way, walk in it.' when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left." 

Isaiah 30:21 (RSV)

When I accepted the job of children's director of Community Bible Study, I felt totally inadequate. One morning as I collected the felt Bible characters, paints and brushes, craft paper, glue and Cheerios for manna, I felt overwhelmed with all my new responsibilities.

I toted my overloaded shopping bag to the car, sat behind the wheel ready to leave when I remembered I had forgotten the large poster boards containing the memory verse. I withdraw my key from the ignition, unlocked the house and returned with the poster boars.

After starting the car again, I realized I forgot my lunch. One more time I dashed into the house.

Totally frustrated, I collapsed my head onto the steering wheel and moaned, "Dear Lord, I'm not qualified for this job." Just then I remembered the above verse and felt God say, "I haven't let you forget anything yet, have I?"

Now, after ten years on the job, I know my adequacy is from God. I pray first, make a list, and ask God to check it. Today is the tomorrow you prayed for yesterday.

Dear Lord, Thank you there is never a job to great or too small that You and I can't handle together. Amen.

Ⓒ 2019  Lois Gosley

PROMISES KEPT

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Psalm 23:4 (KJV)

Words erupted from my soul and panic laced my voice as the caretaker held the small box over the freshly dug grave. I cried out—begging her to stop. It was all wrong. Everything was wrong. She didn’t know him. She didn’t love him. He wasn’t her second father. He was mine.

“Can I do it?” I asked. To this day I don’t know what came over me, but something I was invited to observe became something I had to do.

“Yes,” she answered.

The sun was high in the sky as I knelt on the cool grass and looked into the perfect, deep depression next to where my mother was buried. I paused to gather strength. Gently, I pressed a kiss to my fingers and with every ounce of love in my heart placed it on top of the box—once, then again—before lowering his earthly remains into their final resting place.

When the last piece of sod was in place, a promise made long ago had been fulfilled in the days, months, and years since her passing. “I took care of Ed, Mom, just like I promised,” I said, my eyes fixed on their grave marker.

Sometime later I was reminded of God’s great love for us. Even in the valley of the shadow of death, He entrusts our soul to no one but Himself, guiding us through death’s dark shadow into everlasting life.

Father God, thank You for always keeping Your promises.

© 2019 Amy A. Verzi

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SIERRA

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 (NLT)

On October 25^th we celebrated Sierra’s 31^st birthday. A group of us gathered at the bowling alley to enjoy food and fellowship—and bowl a few games. I have never been good at bowling, so I spent the evening chatting with friends and cheering for others who were strategically rolling balls down the shiny wooden floor. There were many strikes, spares, and of course a few gutter balls. It was an evening filled with fun, laughter, and memories . . . and a few tears.

Tears because someone we loved was missing from the party—Sierra. Sierra and two-year-old Nolan were taken from us along with Sierra’s unborn child the day after Father’s Day. As you can imagine, things haven’t been right since. Sometimes I think if Jesus were standing right beside me, I would drop to my knees, cling to his robe, and beg him to take me home along with those I love. Some days here on earth are just too hard to endure.

Isn’t that what Jesus is telling us in this scripture? In one breath He’s warning us to expect trials and sorrows, and in another He’s encouraging us to take heart because He has overcome the world. So I make room for both—joy and sorrow.

I trust in God’s truth, confident my future is secure in Him. I hope you do too.

Precious Lord, please comfort us in our time of sorrow and fill us with the joy that comes from knowing You. Grant us the courage to face the day confident in Your promises.

© 2019 Amy A. Verzi

NOT THE CO-PILOT

I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.  Psalm: 32:8 (KJV)

I was a fairly new believer in Jesus Christ when I saw a “Christian” bumper sticker that made me smile:  “God Is My Co-Pilot.” Good visual, I thought.   

Soon I saw them on more vehicles—people acknowledging that God is always with them, even when they drive. God must be pleased.

Later, a mature believer told me that God is NOT really anyone’s co-pilot. Something to think about . . . I know that God is always with me. He put it in writing all through the Bible.

I like the visual of God sitting next to me whenever and wherever I drive, but the Sovereign God of the Universe is NOT anyone’s co-anything. I want the visual to be accurate. 

More pondering. . .  Who, other than the co-pilot, sits next to the operator of any vehicle?  

A navigator is the one who reads the map and knows the way to reach the destination. Skip the map — God doesn’t need one.

A driving instructor teaches, coaches, and corrects the student driver — and for protection, there is a second brake pedal on his side of the car.  

I also like to imagine God having an invisible force field to protect me from the careless driver who passes me on the right, then crosses three lanes in front of me to get to the left exit.

Bottom line:  God is NOT my Co-Pilot.  It is an honor to be allowed to drive His vehicle.

Dear God, please be my Navigator, Guide, Coach, and Protector.  Help me to pay more attention to You.

© 2019.  Sarah F. Strachan

PERFECT RECALL

“Therefore you shall lay up these words of mine in your heart and in your soul, and bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall teach them to your children, speaking of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up.” Deuteronomy 11:18-19 (NKJV)

A melody plays in my mind—too distant to capture. I’m a young girl standing beside my grandmother in church. Her eyes are fixed upon the altar as she sings from memory. Some of the people around us are doing the same. Utterly amazed, I turn back to The Book of Common Prayer resting open on the pew in front of me, search for my place, and raise my voice in song.

There are so many questions I wish I would have asked her. What did those words mean to you as you were singing them? Did they touch your heart? Did you fall so much more in love with Him as they flowed from your lips? Were they like raindrops settling on the tip of your tongue soothing your every hurt?

Most days, I’m at a loss—unable to see behind the eyes of others worshipping around me to know if they’re filled with joy or overwhelmed by burdens. I’m blind to everything except my own relationship with the Savior. But I know He’s present with all of us. He knows what’s taking place in every heart and mind.

His words are life.

Father God, let Your words rain down on us like manna from heaven and make the journey from our mind to our heart so that we might grow closer to Thee.

© 2019 Amy A. Verzi

THE LOST HIKER

Rejoice with me, I have found my lost sheep." Matthew 15:6 (KJV)

Recently, a woman, went for a walk in the beautiful evergreen forest of Hawaii and got lost. She admitted being irresponsible and unprepared for the hike. She ate berries and green leaves for nourishment to survive. She never gave up hope of being rescued. 

Meanwhile, hundreds of people, police barrages and volunteers from all around, joined the search. Finally, after seventeen days, a helicopter spotted her waving her arms and sent down a basket to carry her out. She claims it was a spiritual journey, and she praises the rescuers who never gave up.

One of the rescuers said to the hiker, "It's a blessing to know love won't stop looking for you."

I thought about Jesus and His quests to save the lost. Our Bible is full of Jesus pursuing the lost–– coin, sheep, prodigal son, and souls. Jesus never gives up. Also, she was still being searched for when she had been irresponsible. She didn't have to be perfect to be saved.

I'm glad she didn't have to be perfect because I find myself lost in hopelessness and feeling defeated with a medical issue. I allow my mind to wallow in negativity. Jesus is here. I just have to look up, not down, and He's circling waiting to let down His loving arms to carry me out.

I can't imagine the love of God that won't stop until I'm saved. When God's love seems far away—who moved?

Thank you Lord for your Love beyond understanding. When anyone is lost, I pray they seek your face. Amen and Amen.

©2019 Lois Gosley

GOD'S PEOPLE

This mystery is that through the Gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus. Ephesians 3:6 (NIV)

This world has always persecuted Jews. The holocaust of World War II was extreme, but persecution also persists today in cultural and political ways.

Yet the Scriptures make clear that God created Israel, the nation of Jews, to be uniquely His people. The patriarch Abraham believed God. As a result, God promised that all nations would be blessed through him. Thus, through this promise, Jews have an inherent relationship with God from birth.

I am not Jewish, and non-Jews are outside that initial promise. When I read the Old Testament stories of how other peoples outside the promise, such as the Philistines, were as nothing before the Lord, I am horrified! Add to that an awareness of my sins which threaten to block any relationship with God, and I am desperate for hope. What can I do?

This verse from Ephesians 3 is God’s answer to my desperation. As a Gentile, I am so relieved and delighted that God has invited me into the family of His people. He sent his Son Jesus to open a new way. Although I am not a Jew, through the Gospel of Jesus Christ I am brought near, grafted in, and my sins are forgiven. That indeed is the ultimate “good news.” And it starts as soon as I accept Jesus’ invitation to come to Him.

Lord Jesus, You are indeed the Son of God and the One who can bring me into the company of God’s people.  I accept your invitation, and I look forward to a life eternally with You. Amen.

© 2019 Parker Wayland

SEEING CLEARLY

While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen, for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal. 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NAS)

A recent disappointment in a matter my husband had been faithfully praying for left him discouraged and questioning. In his human wisdom, it looked like the answer he was seeking would show God’s faithfulness and bring glory to His name. These verses came to mind, My thoughts are not your thoughts. Nor are your ways my ways. (Isaiah 55:9) His are so much higher than ours. Our vision is limited.

A much-needed vacation followed on the heels of that disappointment. The timing also seemed perfect to send off for repair the “loops”—magnifying glasses he has to use in his dental practice. He was assured they would be fixed by his return to work.

On the last day of vacation, my husband’s reading glasses broke. After running into a pharmacy to get another pair, he came out disconcerted that the lenses he normally used were sold out. He could only get a higher magnification.

Returning to work on Monday, he found his “loops” had not arrived. He certainly could not work without them. He decided to take a look using his new readers. To his amazement, the extra magnification allowed him to see clearly.

That’s when my husband saw God’s hand intricately weaving events leading up to that moment.

He was reassured that God is in control, deeply cares about the everyday details of our lives, and is working everything out for our benefit—even when we cannot see.

 Father, we are grateful You see and know all things. Continue to increase our trust in You. Amen.

 

©2019 Bonnie Mae Evans

 

NIGHTTIME WANDERINGS

I will lift up my eyes to the hills, from where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. Psalm 121: 1-2 (MEV)

It’s 3:30 in the morning. I cannot sleep. The world seems to be closing in on me, and I wonder what awaits me beyond the bend where my eyes cannot reach—a mystery.

Our days are numbered. The amount of sand remaining in the hourglass is known only to our Creator. Would I change the way I spend my days if this were revealed to me? More than likely—yes, I would.

Tears dot the corners of my eyes ready to give way and wash my cheeks. I am in a season of mourning and have been since June 17^th when precious loved ones were taken from us—an intentional act of violence. Evil seems to be closing in on all that’s good.

I lament all of it—the loss of life, the sickness that has gripped those I love and the division that plagues our world. I grieve how far we’ve strayed from God’s original design—and my own role in the whole mess. Like Eve in the magnificent Garden of Eden, I too have been disobedient.

The storm rages around me while nature is at rest. Tears now fall in earnest. Helpless and defeated, I lift my eyes to the heavens seeking the presence of my Lord, blind to how the stories He’s written into our lives will unfold. Even as my faith waivers in the uncertainty of it all, I know God is enough . . . for me . . . for you. He has to be.

Father God, please strengthen and uphold us in the seasons of our lives. Guide us into the presence of Your glorious light.

© 2019 Amy A. Verzi

BEE FRUITFUL

Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me. John 15:4 (NAS)

During times of intense trials, I picture myself clinging to Jesus, arms wrapped tightly around His legs, face buried, tears flowing into His robe.

As more confidence developed surviving those trials, I moved into more independent roles of service. I learned to dry my tears, unclench my hands and step out sharing and practicing what I learned. 

Honestly, at times I want to run back to Jesus clinging to Him as before—held, safe and secure. 

As Christians branching out is our goal, sharing with others the grace and hope we received in Christ, thus bearing fruit. Therefore, I need to venture into not-so-comfortable places while still remaining close to Him. 

There can be no true spiritual growth without Him; however, there can be no fruit if He is not shared.

While contemplating this reciprocity of His kingdom, my eyes followed a bee buzzing deep into blossom after blossom. In the bee world, taking what it needs for strength and endurance, it gives back by pollinating plants so they are fruitful—nature’s reciprocity, replicating God’s perfect plan.

There is balance between receiving and giving. 

While never outgrowing our need to rely on God, we grow. In growing we become a conduit from Jesus to others.  Intimately connected to Him, we gain strength and momentum from the Holy Spirit. 

Christ is the vine providing nourishment for the fruitfulness of our souls, thus fulfilling our role on the continuum to Heaven.  

Father, thank You for teaching us by abiding in You, we can branch out to others, and help increase the yield of the Kingdom harvest.

©2019 Bonnie Mae Evans

LOGAN MEETS LOIS FROM LOIS LANE

You have helped me, and I sing happy songs in the shadow of your wings. Psalm 63:7 (CEV)

“If he can do it, you can do it,” I said to encourage the kindly older lady in the wheelchair.

She smiled in agreement and said “I lost the leg a couple of months ago.” When my wife, my dog Logan and I first met her, I had not noticed. Privately, the executive director told us the lady’s left leg had been amputated, and she was awaiting a prosthesis.   

This was Logan’s first time as a “Paws for Comfort” volunteer. The seniors of the Retirement Village started gravitating to my 13-year old yellow Labrador, another senior. “Would you like to say hello?” I said.  The compliments flowed.  “What a nice dog.”  “He’s beautiful.”  “She’s so well behaved,” said a certain woman insisting that Logan was a she.  I repeated “he” several times, but finally got a look from my wife to let it go.

There was also “what happened to his leg?”  My refrain was: “Oh, he had a tumor on his leg three years ago and he lost his paw.  He wears a brace outside, but in the house does not need it.”

Finally, we met Lois, a happy dog lover, who once lived on a private drive named Lois Lane. Logan let her love on him with back rubs and head pats. He brought a happy song to the hearts of the residents.

Dear Lord, help us share our gifts whatever they may be; our time, our beloved pets, or a warm-hearted smile so we may bless others by spreading joy.

© 2019 Aubrey Evelyn

LIFE ALWAYS FINDS A WAY

By your perseverance you will secure your lives. Luke 21:19 (NABRE)

One bright sunny day, I was walking out to the job site, and I noticed a little green plant growing out of a brick column! I stopped immediately and took its' photo, then shared it to my social media page titling it, "Life Always Finds a Way." For the rest of the day, I thought how similar our residence in life is to that plant. 

Over the years I have heard many inspirational stories of how people have gotten through terrible trials and have come out on the other side stronger and wiser. We are made to be resilient. Cancer survivors remind me of this. No matter what we face in this life, God has given us His Spirit to accompany, guide and strengthen us. Even in death, life through Jesus continues.

In the hard times, we may feel defeated, but we are not! God is with us, reminding us to stand tall because nothing can defeat His children. I’ve realized this in my own life struggles. We can always start again and be fruitful no matter the timing or place God may have us. We can still grow right where we are, in the midst of trials, hardships and obstacles.

So do not allow yourself to feel like it’s over for you. Whatever your dream is or your hope, if you are still breathing, you still have a chance. Just like the little plant, you will burst through your obstacles and find life on the other side! With Jesus, anything is possible!

Lord, thank You for giving us a fighting spirit and Your Word which brings us life! Amen.

© 2019 Maritza Mejias-Ditzenberger

TRULY AWESOME

Others went out to the sea in ships… They saw the works of the Lord, his wonderful deeds in the deep. For he spoke and stirred up a tempest that lifted high the waves. They mounted up to the heavens and went down to the depths. Psalm 107:23-26a (NIV)

 

The bridge of a submarine is low to the water. For safety reasons, a submarine normally runs on the surface during a storm. The Officer of the Deck and two lookouts must be on the bridge while everyone else is safely below decks. For the 4 hours of their watch they face the onslaught of huge wave after wave, 20 feet high or more, coming at them incessantly. The bow rises dramatically as the crest of the wave passes it. Then the wave crashes over the bridge where the crew is huddled under cover, and finally the bow plunges into the trough for the next wave.

 

Who can spend even a fraction of a 4-hour watch in a storm at sea and not be awed at the power of God? Such an experience makes the doubts of a theoretical skeptic seem ludicrous. The remainder of Psalm 107 gives other examples: the wanderer in a desert wasteland, the thirsty and hungry, the prisoner sitting in darkness and the rebellious fool. In each case, this awesome God rescues those who turn to Him. The Psalmist tells us how to respond to this awesome love? “Let them give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love and His wonderful deeds for men. Let them exalt Him in the assembly of the people and praise him in the council of the elders.” (Psalm 107:32-33)

 My awesome God, You are truly worthy of all my praise!  Amen

 

©2019 Parker Wayland

MOONBEAMS, STARS AND STRIPES, AND GLITTER

When thou liest down, thou shall not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, 
and thy sleep shall be sweet. Proverbs 4:24 (KJV). 

I sat there on the floor and wasn't sleepy any more, 

but wanted to view the midnight sky.
The diamonds flashing made me cry.

                                   
Oh, if only I could touch their flare and soar between the 
moonbeams there,

I'd slip through the mountains of glittery gloss
and toss it to the sky, viewing no loss.

I'd mount a moonbeam to slide through night 
to wherever it touched the earth so bright.
Suddenly the sky exploded in colors of red, white, and blue—
in honor of Independence Day that all the world knew.

I felt so proud to see the stars as they glowed, so bright.

My heart pounded and my eyes wept as I soared into the night.

Suddenly, I was home again. I hugged my knees and rested my chin.
I scanned the sky  that gave me glee. 
The only one to please was me.

But, then I felt a calming touch. It was the One I loved, so much. 
I had to thank Him for this night. It gave me such ethereal delight.

I knelt and gazed into the skies, then breathed my heartfelt joy, 
for it seemed I'd looked into the eyes of God's Own Son, 
His Baby Boy.

Thank You, Father, for the happy dreams You give me while I slumber. 
I am in the best of care. . . in Your loving arms. Amen.

© 2019  Evelyn B. Ryan

ETERNAL NAILS

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

There it is again, lurking just outside my heart’s door. Mentally I slam the door on fear, barring my body against it, trying to hold to it shut. I grab the hammer of my own reasoning and the nails of human will to assure it does not break through. All to no avail, the wood is splintering. My hands are too weak. The nails are too small. Fear’s hot breath is forcing its way in.

I’m losing the battle.

Calmly, gently, strong hands cover my trembling ones. The hands bear the beautiful scars of the nails that pierced them through . . . nails unlike the ones I hold. Mine were crafted by mere men. They are weak, already beginning to fail. The crucifixion nails were made by man as well; however, they were designed by God for His purposes, and are therefore eternal. They have assured our freedom from fear and its final defeat . . . forever.

How about you, my friend? Are you holding Jesus’ righteous right hand or like me at times, forgetting that fear has no place in our lives. Do you let it push through the doors of your heart and take up residence there? If we allow, it will boldly enter, claiming squatter’s rights.

We can just as boldly send fear packing with the arsenal of tools we’ve been given. Our toolbox is sufficiently supplied with prayer, scripture, and praise for the One who gives us peace.

Praise be to Jesus! Fear has no dominion over us. It was nailed to the cross for all eternity!

©2019 Bonnie Mae Evans

I CALL YOU FRIEND

“I do not call you servants any longer, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you [My] friends, because I have revealed to you everything that I have heard from My Father.”John 15:15 (AMP)

In 1968, readers of the “Peanuts” comic strip saw something they thought they would never see.  Franklin Armstrong first appeared.  He was "born" after a school teacher, Harriet Glickman, wrote a letter to creator Charles Schulz, following the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Glickman asked Schulz if he would consider adding a black character to his strip.

Glickman was especially aware of the power of comics among kids. “I realized black kids and white kids never saw themselves together in the classroom.” Schulz responded, saying he was intrigued with the idea.  The president of the distribution company believed that introducing a black child might affect Schulz' popularity and wanted him to change the cartoon. Schulz' response was, “Either you print it just the way I draw it, or I quit."

Glickman continued exchanging letters with Schulz, and he eventually asked her to check the July 31st newspaper. In his strip was a black child saying to Charlie Brown, “Is this your beach ball?” A white child responded “Hey! Yeah! Thank you very much!” 

In a subsequent strip, this black child meets Linus and the exchange is: “Hi, I’m Franklin.” Linus says, “I’m very glad to know you.” There was no big deal. It was just a natural conversation between children.

A friendship with Jesus, who calls us friends, is as simple as saying, "I am very glad to know you."

Lord help me embrace the simplicity of friendship with You.

© 2019 Lucy Evelyn

GOD'S FRIEND

. . . This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem. Song of Solomon 5:16 (RSV)

My dad died of cancer at 46. I was 23 at the time. I had just started a new job at a Westinghouse Plant and I knew very few people. At that time, Westinghouse gave a physical when hiring, and by the end of the morning, I had made friends with the nurse, Mary Ann. (I guess anyone who sees you in your underwear becomes your friend.)

During the three day viewing, lots of people came to pay their respects. Dad was the baby of eight and I never saw his many older siblings or their families. Many came from the factory where Dad worked. Folks well meaning greetings and condolences were graciously received. Many were Mom's sisters. They all gathered around Mom, offering words of comfort. Then they came to me saying, "Take care of your mother. She needs you." Mom was in dire need of comfort. 

By the end of the three days, my brother Dick and I, were numb. 

Then, late afternoon, more men arrived from Dad's work. They entered, all dressed in grubby work clothes. In their midst came Mary Ann in her white nursing uniform. She shined like a star, brightening my gloomy day. She asked, "How I was doing? Do you need anything? She came for me!

I thank God for sending her. She came to fill a need in me only God could see. Although her visit was brief, the blessing was everlasting. Fifty years later I still remember her act of kindness. It encouraged me to be there for others.

Thank You Jesus, I pray to be Your useable friend and brighten someone's day. Amen

Ⓒ 2019 Lois Gosley

I DON'T WANT TO

Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11: 28-29 (NKJV)

God and I have been struggling lately. It’s me, not God. Nevertheless, the distance between us is great. I don’t want to pray, I don’t want to read my Bible, I don’t even want to go to church. What’s worse . . . I find myself increasingly angry with my fellow Christians. I question whether their living and loving mirrors Christ. Unfortunately, this frustration currently serves as the justification for my distance from God.

That is my complaint; now here’s my truth.

Being a Christian is not always easy. Having a heart for the hurting, the poor, the disenfranchised, and the lost is laborious. Seeking to build God’s kingdom on earth is hard. In all of my efforts to display Christ, do good, and be present for others, I have become burdened and heavy laden. In response to my burnout, I have distanced myself from the One who wants to restore me. That is not how Christ wants us to face our weariness.

The call of Christ is for all of us who are tired and weary to come unto Him. He wants to give us rest. Historically, a yoke was shared by a pair of oxen. The load was not designed to be carried by a single ox alone. Christ wants to share the weight of our daily struggles with us too, if only we will let Him.

Lord, when I am tired, carry the load with me. I don’t want to carry it alone. Amen.

© 2019 Dawn M. Wayman