Portions of Grace

No Diet Necessary!

2012-02-10T06:29:00.002-05:00

I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food. Job 23:12b (KJV)

“It’s just wrong,” I complained to my roommate years ago. “When I look down, I should see my toes!” Late night snacks and a lack of exercise had taken their toll. Preparing meals for my husband still causes me to struggle today. My dilemma? Love of food and lack of willpower. For some reason, the myriad cooking shows I watch don’t help. Go figure!

My motto has always been, “Diet is just DIE-with-a-T!’” However, conviction about a lack of time in God’s word and too much time snacking in the kitchen set in with the new year. A read-through-the-Bible program dealt with the first and helped with the second. Then the Lord sent aid in the form of a weight-loss competition at work, based on a popular television series. Wanting to see my toes again, I jumped in with both feet—armed for battle—scales, treadmill, and waist-friendly recipes at the ready.

In the natural, Job’s words are daunting. The smallest hunger pang sends me running to the refrigerator. Do I hunger for God in the same way, running to Him, filling up on the fruit of the Spirit? I am ready for the challenge. Feasting on the Lamb of God, drinking in His word, exercising His Spirit and trusting Him to satisfy the cravings of my soul are powerful weapons. As He increases, I will decrease. Join me in partaking of the Bread of Life and Living Water. No diet necessary!

Father, help us to eat and drink your word to fortify our souls and give us the energy of your Spirit. We will walk in your way, exercising your character in this world, inviting others to join the feast.

© 2012 Katherine A. Fuller

Every Knee Shall Bow

2012-02-03T10:11:00.002-05:00

That at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth. Philippians 2:10 (NKJV)

A few weeks ago I had the most amazing and wonderful dream. I dreamt that I was standing face to face with Jesus! Can you imagine anything more incredible?

While I was there in His presence, I was unable to do anything else but fall on my face at His feet. It wasn't that I wanted to do something else; it was that I could not do anything else.

It was as though His holiness were a living thing. His power and majesty were so awesome that the air around me felt heavy with His glory. I knew that I was created for this moment; and that my destiny was now fulfilled. I was made to worship at the feet of Jesus.

When I awoke, the above verse came to mind. One day every knee shall bow; not just those who have chosen to love and follow Him. Joshua 24:15 says, Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve---but as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord (paraphrased). I am so glad that I chose Jesus, and even more grateful that He chose me.

How amazing it is that He has chosen each and every one of us, exactly the way we are right now! But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8 (NIV)

Thank you Lord, for choosing to love us and for giving us the opportunity to love and worship you.

(c) 2012 Kimberly Mattio Halfen

Choosing Life

2012-01-27T17:04:00.006-05:00

Choose life that you and your descendants may live. Deuteronomy 30:19b (NKJV)

“Do you like carrots best?” my luncheon friend asked. My plate was almost empty except for the shining orange spears. She did not like them, and thought I should eat them first. I used to save the best for last, until I wondered, “Why spend life making ‘second best’ choices?” Those who choose the best first always have full enjoyment of what is available. When they choose again, they get to enjoy the best of the rest.

Moses explained that the Lord wanted the Israelites, His people, to choose the best, to choose life, and continue living in the Promised Land. The Israelites knew that God gave Adam and Eve the very best of everything in the Garden of Eden. Even after that catastrophic disobedience, the Lord wanted His people to choose life by practicing worship and obedience.

They tried, and when Solomon built the first temple, it contained the very best workmanship. After many failures and when the temple was destroyed, two later temples were built, each smaller than the previous one. These two were still worthy because they also contained the best work of the artisans.

Still, we, His people, needed more help, a Savior who wanted us to make the best choice first because the sooner someone chooses life, the longer he or she will be able to enjoy God's best, a life blessed with the Holy Spirit's guidance and presence. There is no reason to save the best ‘till last. When we love God, we choose life first.

Thanks be to God who loved us so much that he sent his Son to show us the way to choose life and be able to have it more abundantly.

© 2011 V. Colclasure

What Are You Doing Now?

2012-01-19T20:37:00.003-05:00

The Kingdom of Heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom…five were wise…five were foolish. The wise took oil in their vessels. The foolish virgins’ lamps went out. Matthew 25:1-8 (NKJV)

Recently men have been predicted the end of the world, and each prophesized date has come and passed.

It’s a joke to unbelievers. Some communicate with each other on personal web sites asking, “Are you left behind too? Let’s meet at Pete’s and party.”

My Christian sisters and I were discussing this situation. Someone presented the question,“If the end were to comes today, what do you want to be caught doing?” My friend, Emmy said, “I’d like to say, ‘what I’m doing right now.’”

People can count all the last days predicted in the Book of Daniel, or check off all the catastrophes listed in Revelation. But Jesus tells us “You do not know the day or hour in which the Son of Man is coming”. (Matt 25:13) Collecting all the negative events of the end times is like worshiping a false god. Exalting them above Jesus is misplaced worship.

What would Jesus like to find us doing: Feeding the hungry; giving water to the thirsty; visiting the sick and the prisoners; or clothing the naked? “What you did for the least of these, you did for me.” (Matt. 25:34-40).

No one knows the day. Let’s take Emmy’s advice and pray that “what I’m doing right now,” would always be a good thing. “Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” (Matt. 25.21)

Dear Lord. Thank you for today. How can I serve you, while I wait for You.

©2011 Lois Gosley

Heroes

2012-01-13T15:49:00.006-05:00

For he has said: "I will by no means leave you nor by any means forsake you. Hebrews 13:5b (NWT)

I remember when young children had favorite heroes to imitate. As a pre-teen, my hero rode a palomino stallion named "Trigger," wore a white hat and had a dog named "Bullet." Roy Rogers was known for his Christian morals.

As I grew older my hero changed. I still liked Roy, but a new hero filled my mind and heart. I began drawing His face on the outside of my notebooks like a star-struck kid. When classmates asked what I was drawing, I told them, with a deep warmness in my heart, that it was a picture of Jesus. He was my "forever hero."

As a child and young adult, I noticed others who followed self-indulgent, godless people and embraced worldly ways. My conscience would not permit me to join them. I grew closer to my hero, Jesus, Whom I worship daily. He, unlike human heroes, will never leave me nor forsake me.

Throughout the years since my childhood, I hung on to my hero. He got me through the difficult first years of marriage and through the births of three children. He strengthened me through the sometimes tumultuous years of raising them. He was and is still my closest friend.

Thank You, Father, for always being the same, yesterday, today and forever. (Hebrews 13:8) I know that you will never abandon me to the wiles of the world. Amen.

(c) 2012 E. Bonnie Ryan

Artist to painter

2012-01-06T11:59:00.011-05:00

. . . whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God. I Corinthians 10:31 NAS

I have an artist friend whose specialty is large expanses of earth and sky that draw you into the landscape. He is so blessed with talent that the strokes of his brush leave behind the scent of ocean waves at sunrise or the mossy dampness of a lush green forest as you stand admiring his large canvases.

One day I watched as he painted the deck outside. His grip on the brush was still that of an artist. Each brushstroke was carefully placed, smoothing and perfecting the wooden surface as he went. He did not paint in a hurry to get the job done. Instead, he worked with the care of an artist giving his best to the task that was before him. It didn’t matter that this work would not hang in a gallery beside his other paintings. The attention to detail was the same.

I thought of Jesus working as a carpenter, patiently shaping the wood—sawdust sprinkling his toes—yet knowing that He had a much greater purpose to fill. But for that point in time he was content, dedicating His best to the task that was before Him.

Nurse, wife, mother, writer, nanny, friend, disciple of Christ—I hope and pray that as I go about this daily journey I will give my very best in all I do, no matter how insignificant it may appear. I want to strive to accomplish everything so that others see, not me, but Christ in me and God will be given all of the glory.

Father, Help us to embrace each task as if we were doing it especially for You. Amen.

© 2011 Bonnie Mae Evans

Don't Give Up

2012-01-02T19:32:00.002-05:00

Her children rise up and call her blessed. Proverbs 31:28 (NIV)

"On March 7, 1774, the British passed the Boston Port Act, closing the harbor to all commerce to punish the colonists for the Boston Tea Party. The surrounding towns rallied to their aid by secretly sending food to the inhabitants of Boston.

Colonel William Prescott, wrote:

Providence has placed you where you must stand the first shock... if we submit to these regulations, all is gone. ….. Now if we should give up, can our children rise up and call us blessed? ”(American Minute, Bill Federer)

This is not the time to give up. Our children depend on us to stand against government regulations and cultural tolerances that impede our religious freedoms, weakening our Christian foundation. Unifying the community of believers to act and affirming the teachings of Christ in our homes will make a difference.

On the surface, we do the right things as a Christian family. We attend church and serve in ministry. As an author and Bible teacher, I pray, read God’s Word, give tithes, and help the poor. Many have called me “blessed”, but, what about my children? With all that I do, are my children realizing a Divine purpose in their lives so they know who they are and why they were created? This is a challenging question and my answer is sure, I will fight the good fight of faith. We are determined this New Year to raise our children with a focused Christian culture, so they will not be swept away by the world’s seduction. Will you join us?

God help us to teach our children as you commanded our ancestors, so the next generation will know you, Lord and trust in You. Psalms 78:5-7 (NIV)

©2011 Danielle Martin Moffett

Fresh Start

2012-01-01T09:16:00.001-05:00

Of course, my friends, I really do not think that I have already won it; the one thing I do, however, is to forget what is behind me and do my best to reach what is ahead. Philippians 3:13 (GNT)

Is there anyone who, like me, is glad to see 2011 end and is looking forward to a fresh start in 2012?

2011 was a year of purging, shifting and preparation—in the spiritual, as well as in the natural. We will never forget the monster tornadoes, historic floods, massive wildfires, the tsunami and the East Coast Earthquake.

Like physical storms, the storms of life are frightening, painful and confusing. They may be out of our control, but they serve a purpose: announcing change or growth. A new season, a new beginning, a fresh start. Just as the rainbow symbolizes not only the passing of the storm, but the gift of the storm, New Year represents a gift, too—having the chance to start again, the beginning of a new season. Some use it to make resolutions, establish goals, start projects or make commitments to change negative habits.

What do you want to change this year? Lose weight? Get out of debt? Read the Bible daily and pray more? Watch less television? Accomplishing any goal requires keeping focus. It also requires forgiving, forgetting and letting go of the past. Let’s leave the past behind and reach forward to what is ahead.

Are you ready for a fresh start? Okay . . . ready . . . set . . . reach!

Thank you, Jesus, for a New Year and the opportunity for a fresh start. The past is washed away, and I won’t look back! I’m moving forward in your name. Amen

© 2011 Wanda Currie

The Yule Log

2011-12-31T10:27:00.002-05:00

And all things, whatsoever you shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. Matthew 21:22 (KJV)

A Yule log is an extremely large log that is burned in a hearth as a traditional Christmas celebration in several European cultures. The Yule log was originally an entire tree that was carefully chosen and brought into the house with great ceremony. Because the Yule log was hard wood, it provided maximum warmth and endurance.

This prayer is traditionally said when lighting the yule log: “May the fire of this log warm the cold; may the hungry be fed; may the weary find rest and may all enjoy heaven's peace.”

While we may not all have fireplaces to burn yule logs, we can offer prayers of hope to those in need of food, homes, jobs or heaven's peace.

A gentleman came into the retail store the other day to pay on a stranger's layaway as a way to share the Christmas spirit. This seems to be a new trend happening at many of the stores this year. What a nice way to help and spread some comfort and cheer to a weary family.

This is the season to reflect on the blessings that Jesus' birth has given us and help those who have less and in need of blessings. If we cannot give material things we can pray the Yule log prayer believing and watch Jesus answers in amazing ways.

Thank you Jesus for giving me peace, warmth and rest in your arms. May I not only pray for the needs of others, but also provide hope throughout this Christmas season.

© 2011 Dawn M Sexton

Between the Manger and the Cross

2011-12-30T00:08:00.002-05:00

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19 (NIV)

With Christmas behind us, and the New Year only days away, it’s easy to put away the baby in the manger along with all of the other Christmas decorations. During the holidays, we might find ourselves trying to put the focus on the reason for the season; but after the last present is unwrapped, and the last needle falls from the tree–what remains?

Just as we try to keep Christ in Christmas, we should also keep Him in our hearts every day. We need to remember exactly why that baby in the manger was born (which, by the way, was to die). Not only do we need to understand that reason, we need to concentrate on the life that He lived between the manger and the cross.

Everything that Jesus did from cradle to grave was to reconcile the creation to the creator–the Father to His children.

In Biblical times it was the duty of the son to carry on the father’s work. We are to go about our Father’s work as well. His work is to make disciples of all nations. He is not willing that any should perish.

As we carry on the family business, we will be following in the footsteps of Christ; spreading the Gospel to all with whom we come in contact. News this great was meant to be shared!

Lord, help me to always remember that nothing I do is more important than telling others about the saving grace of your son Jesus Christ.

© 2011 Kimberly Mattio Halfen

2011-12-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

Blessed Gifts

Behold, children are a gift of the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward.
Psalm 127:3 (NASB)
As a child, my mother gave me a doll almost every Christmas. One year I received a Betsy Wetsy, who lived up to her name. One Christmas Mom decided to give me one of her dolls. She was large with a soft kid body. Her legs, arms and head were plaster-of-paris. Another was a tall teenager with moveable elbows and knees. Mom worked late nights before Christmas making their clothes.

They were well-cared for. I spent hours playing with them. They were taken for walks in my yellow doll buggy, and sat quietly when I taught “doll” school. Once I learned to sew, they received pretty gowns of my own design.

In a small way, my time as a “doll mommy” gave me a longing to someday become a real mom. Gazing into the eyes of my first son, my heart swelled with joy and thankfulness for God’s amazing gift. Mom sewed baby clothes and soft blankets for my son just as she had for my dolls.

Although they were special to me as a child, dolls can never compare to the relationships I have with my sons and my grandchildren. Dolls were not real nor could they respond to me. Babies reveal God’s love to our families. As we love and care for our babies and children, we see God’s love reflected in their smiles and in their small hands reaching for ours. Our hearts melt when they say, “I love you.”

Thank you, Lord, for revealing your love through the gift of babies and children. Bless and watch over our families. Amen
© 2011 Diane E. Hussey

Home for the Holidays?

2011-12-28T09:18:00.000-05:00

Children are aheritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the handsof a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Psalm 127: 3-4 (NIV)

Nowthat my sons are grown and out on their own, gathering for the holidays is nolonger a certainty. School and work schedules conspire against maintaining thatcheery family unit gathered around the Thanksgiving table or the Christmastree. My new found freedom was welcome at first. But now I find myself eagerlyseeking out those rare opportunities to be together as we were when they werechildren.

AsChristians, we know that Christmas is so much more than generic holidaygreetings, exchanging overpriced gifts, and watching Frosty the Snowman on TV.The birth of Jesus is more cause for celebration than just about any otheroccasion. That is why being with family at this time of year is so meaningful. Takingspecial time out from our worldly cares and responsibilities to give glory andhonor to God; to thank Him for sending his son into the world so that we mightbe saved and reconciled to Him, that is truly cause for thanksgiving.

Sowhat do we do when we can’t be together for the holidays? We share our love inany and every way possible: through cards, on the phone, via email, evenFacebook. The connection is still there, and the joy of knowing that we haveChrist and each other.

Heavenly father,thank you for the precious love of family as we celebrate the birth of yourson, Jesus Christ.

The Perfect Gift

2011-12-27T06:15:00.002-05:00

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights,. ” James 1:17 (NIV)

Opening gifts on December 25th is the highlight of Christmas Day for many. My mother was the biggest kid in our house at Christmas time. One year, the excitement for an expected gift motivated my mother to insist that her family stay up until one minute after midnight, Christmas morning, to open that present.

To keep us all awake and together, Mom cooked a large feast filled with the savory aroma of candied sweet potatoes, the enticing smell of roasted turkey gravy and the alluring fragrance of bubbling melted cheese in her famous dish, old-fashioned macaroni and cheese.

Belt loosening full were we, when at the stroke of midnight December 24th, Mom quickly gathered us around our Christmas tree. It was decorated with brightly glowing colored lights, and perched on the highest tree limb was our traditional chirping bird ornament. She couldn’t wait to open her highly desired present. She expected a diamond engagement ring, but instead she got diamond earrings. With a smile on her face and disappointment in her eyes, she opened her remaining gifts.

Personal reactions to gifts opened are always unpredictable, no matter how much time, effort and thought the gift buyer puts into it. While we shop for gifts, let us also remember to give the gift of the gospel of Jesus Christ and open the good and perfect gift of Salvation for someone this Christmas.

Father, as we prepare for family gatherings, attend Christmas programs, and shop till we drop, remind us that Christmas can’t be purchased in a store. Help us to remember to share your good and perfect gift, Jesus Christ, this Christmas season.

© 2011 Danielle Martin Moffett

The Christmas Star

2011-12-26T22:32:00.002-05:00

He [the Lord] determines the number of the stars, he gives to all of them their names. Psalm 147:3-4 (RSV)

Why did God create shooting stars? People watch them and wonder. Attracted by stellar beauty or personal curiosity, students soon learn that shooting stars are meteors, often originating in the Leonid, Perseid or Geminid constellations. Dedicated astronomers can predict the time, place, intensity and visibility of these divinely inspired events; however, they keep searching for the reasons, the natural purpose for their destruction.

The Psalmist looked beyond the analytic facts of the stars’ existence and used them to praise the Lord for His greatness, abundant power and understanding. Someday, scientists may find a celestial parallel with earth’s annual disintegration of falling leaves. Stars may not fall in as great abundance as leaves, but nothing is wasted either in the Lord’s natural world or in His theological world. Everything has purpose.

When Christ’s followers look to the sky and remember the Christmas Star, they know it had a one-time theological purpose---lead the Magi to Christ. There was no need for it to appear again and again. Those living today never saw that particularly bright star, but through reading the Christmas story, we can imagine it. We don’t need to see it in because we remember our own journey to Christ. Our personal memory of discovering Him combined with the Magi’s story brings a joyous desire to celebrate Christmas—again, and again and again.

Lord, as we celebrate the beauty of the Christmas sky, remember the star, the Magi, and our path to your side, let us, like the Psalmist, praise your greatness, power, and understanding. Amen.

© 2011 V. Colclasure

Christmas Morn

2011-12-25T13:41:00.004-05:00

And this shall be a sign unto you, Ye shall find a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. Luke 2:12 (KJV)

In a field, so lush and green,
a brilliant light could be seen.
Sheep stirred restless in their fright
to see this unfamiliar sight.
Shepherds knelt in instant awe,
when heavenly angels they all saw.
A choir of angels sang so sweet.
God's message to mankind was complete.
"A child is born, a Savior, dear.
In swaddling clothes, the Messiah's here.
In yonder town called 'Bethlehem,'
in a stable small, warm and dim.
Go! See the babe in manger there,
so sweet is He, in Mary's care."
So, off to Bethlehem they fled,
obeying the words the angel said.
A babe in swaddling clothes they found,
in the little Bethlehem town.
In manger small, made for His bed,
there was no pillow for His head.
He did not cry, but lay asleep
as Joseph, guardian, his watch did keep.
Mary, His mother, slept in rest
beside her babe in warm straw nest.
The shepherds knelt in wonder there
to give God 'thanks,' for a miracle shared.
They told of the heralds, the angels words,
they've news of a new-born king assured.
To the lowest of men the message was given
as those humble men gazed up to heaven.
The first to witness Messiah born
to bless us all on Christmas morn.
Two thousand years have passed since then.
Still the message is given each year to men.
"Glory in the Highest" we shout praises still.
And "Peace to men who need good will."

Lord, may we remember the reason you sent your beloved Son as the Christmas season comes once more. Amen.

(c) 2011 E. Bonnie Ryan

Barnyard Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T00:34:00.000-05:00

And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Luke 2:7 (NAS)

One Christmas Eve, after waving good-bye to our guests, I went to feed and bed down my bunnies for the cold night. Grabbing some apple slices as a treat for them I realized to my dismay, that in all the holiday rush, fresh hay had been forgotten. Immediately my thoughts went to the farm lady nearby. She loved animals too and would understand. Quickly calling her, I apologized for the interruption. She seemed genuinely glad to help. I wrapped a box of homemade cookies and hurried out the door.

From the hill, a stunning sunset showcased her farm. Pausing to take in the brilliant orange and violet swirls, I realized this was a special moment, compliments of the Father. In quiet adoration I took a moment to praise Him for the gift of His Son.

Walking the darkened dirt path to the barnyard, another surprise awaited. Ever so softly, sweet carols drifted on hay and animal-scented air. Cows lowed quietly. A warm glow beckoned from an opened door. In awe I thanked God for a tiny glimpse into the wonder of that Holy night when Jesus was born. Treading silently, tears in my eyes, I stepped into the warm light anticipating a baby in a manger. There was my friend, greeting me with a big smile. "Perfect," she said, "A bale of clover, my Christmas gift to your bunnies!" I smiled, handing her the cookies and treasured the gift I had already received.

Father, thank you for the most perfect gift of Your Son!

(c) 2011 Bonnie Mae Evans

Gift Exchange

2011-12-23T08:22:00.000-05:00

To bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. Isaiah 61:3b (NIV)

I played a game at a Christmas party one year that stirred up a very
un-Christmas-like emotion.

The game started innocently enough. We passed out packages, expressing delight over creative wrapping techniques, then set about tearing through paper and tape. There were no extravagant offerings; only $10-limit surprises. Once all the gifts were revealed, we began.

The rules were simple. If we wanted to keep our own present, we did nothing. But if we wanted someone else’s gift, we could take it and give them ours. Then, time limit set, we began taking turns.

Enter selfishness. Cheap gifts that would never have captured our attention became obsessions. We waited, coveting one special item, plotting how to get it for ourselves. Nothing stood in our way: not kindness, not consideration, and certainly not sacrifice.

How different is Christ. He had all the riches of Heaven, but left them behind to give us life. He gave willingly, wholeheartedly—sacrificially. And we who were poor and destitute, without hope in this world, received blessings and riches beyond compare. Jesus Christ took our rags and gave us robes of righteousness. He took our mourning and gave us joy. He took our anxiety and gave us peace that passes all understanding.

Thankfully, He did have one obsession after all: to win us. This is our Savior, our God—and our friend.

Lord, help us to remember you and to give with your Spirit this Christmas season. Thank you for all the gifts you give, especially for giving yourself—in a manger, on a cross, and in our circumstances.

© 2011 Katherine A. Fuller

2011-12-22T07:23:00.003-05:00

Ballerina Dreams

If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask Him.
Matthew 7:11 (NASB)

When I was a little girl, I wanted to grow up to be a ballerina. One of my favorite books showed pictures of children doing exercises to become good dancers. I spent hours practicing them and looking at the beautiful gowns worn by ballerinas in their performances. I fell in love with ballet.

One Christmas, my mom surprised me with a lovely pink satin tutu with matching slippers that tied like real ballet shoes. Peeking from under the skirt was an attached royal blue petticoat that made my skirt stand out like a real tutu. I was thrilled! My mother made this special costume for me because she understood my dream, and because she loves me. This memory still brings tears to my eyes.

Special gifts from loved ones remind us of the ways God reveals His love to us. He loves us so much that He sent His only Son to earth to die for our sins. He hopes we will accept the free gift of salvation through Jesus.

As we open our hearts to God’s gift, we are able to share His love with others. He enables us to reach out and forgive those who have hurt us, and to give the gift of time to an elderly woman in a nursing home. We are thankful for the simple pleasures of a meal shared with our families or a long talk with a close friend.

Dear Father, Thank you for the gift of a Mother’s love, and for revealing your love though the gift of your Son. Amen.

© 2011 Diane E. Hussey

Christmas Travel

2011-12-21T10:48:00.001-05:00

For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; . . . And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 (NKJV)

On the way to Bethlehem perhaps Joseph sang, “Pele Ya’ate, Pele Ya’ate, Wonderful Counselor, Pele Ya’ate.” His song calmed Mary and her unborn baby as she tried to balance between a donkey’s withers and its haunches. Mary needed to hold off the pangs of child birth until their journey was finished.

Today, I imagine this scene as most of us visit friends or go to Grandma’s house. Life is so different. Some people will take cross-country trips via plane or car. True, all basic traveling concerns are the same as Mary’s: pack enough clothes, carry enough food, have enough money and find places to stay. But now we call ahead for hotel reservations; interstates have designated rest stops; and every town has restaurants and fuel stations. The process is much more comfortable and convenient.

Normally, though, trips in the twenty-first century are voluntary, not mandated by government officials. Like Mary, though, travel is difficult because it interrupts normal routine, adds elements of the unknown, and produces cranky people. Kids must be strapped into car seats. Bones and muscles start to ache. Rigid airline agents dislike travelers’ attitudes. Bad weather impedes and changes everyone’s schedules.

What a wonderful change, then, for us to hear someone sing the Christmas songs extolling Jesus, Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace, a Son given to us to be King of our hearts and souls. Let us remember the angels’ song, and carry the Lord’s joy no matter where we go, and share it.

Lord, Bless us with thoughts and songs of your joy and peace as we travel this Christmas. Amen.

© 2011 V. Colclasure

THE DYING TREE

2011-12-20T12:31:00.002-05:00

Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life. Rev. 22:14 (NIV)

One of my favorite childhood memories involves a huge fir tree that graced our living room every year. It went up about two weeks before Christmas and was decorated as a family project with bubble lights, collectible glass balls, and aluminum icicles carefully laid by hand on each branch one at a time.

One year when my sister and I were teenagers, our tree began showing serious signs of dying, a week before Christmas. Each day we vacuumed more brown needles. By Christmas Eve, it was obvious that our tree would not last through Christmas Day, and would absolutely be naked by New Year’s Eve. We purchased another tree—one with green needles. We took down the dead tree, cleaned up the mess, put up the new tree and finished decorating it before Santa put out presents for our little sister.

The custom of decorating a tree as part of the Christmas celebration is a modern invention that at first seems to have nothing to do with our Lord and Savior. Yet a tree is often mentioned in scripture. Adam and Eve suffered dire consequences when they disobeyed God and ate from the tree of good and evil (Gen 3:13-18). The crowd waved branches from a palm tree when Jesus entered the city (John 12:13). Jesus died, hanging on a tree (1Peter 2:24). The Lord promises that those who overcome will have the right to eat from the tree of life (Rev. 2:7).

Scripture reveals that, after all, the Christmas tree is not an empty symbol.

Lord, help me to be reminded of all You have done for me when I see a Christmas tree.

© 2011 Christy Struben

Greetings!

2011-12-19T07:45:00.000-05:00

Welcome and receive [to your hearts] one another, then, even as Christ has welcomed and received you, for the glory of God. Romans 15:7 (AMP)

Have you noticed that during the holidays we are more cordial to one another? A teenager, trick or treating, thought he would be smart. Instead of the usual greeting from children of “Happy Halloween,” he said, “Merry Christmas.” There was my chance. I said, “Do you know why we say, ‘Merry Christmas?’”

“No!” he said.

“That is when we celebrate the birth of Christ,” I replied.

He quickly left my porch. By his response, I could tell he did not know what I was talking about.

While shopping during the Christmas season, we hear sales people say, “Happy Holidays.” They may be saying it to be pleasant, or to be “politically correct,” or they do not know the reason for our celebration. Accepting the greeting with love in our hearts, no matter the reason, is what counts for the glory of God.

One of my favorite greetings was passed on to my husband and me one Christmas evening. All eleven of our guests were arriving the day after Christmas. What would we do on this wonderful day of the year? We decided to have dinner at a Chinese restaurant and go to a movie. The restaurant was filled. People were enjoying one another and conversation was flowing. After a fine meal, the Chinese waiter returned with our credit slip to sign and exclaimed boldly, “Merry Christmas!”

Dear Lord, Help us receive others as you receive them with your love. Amen

Don't Forget the Batteries

2011-12-18T13:16:00.004-05:00

I am the way, the truth and the light!” Jesus answered. Without me, no one can go to the Father. John 14:6 (CEV)

When one thinks of all the wonderful things of the Christmas season, the birth of our Savior, baking, singing and shopping, what is the one thing we always forget? The batteries! No zooming cars, no talking dolls, no electronics! The children and even some adults are are upset because they are unable to use some of their gifts immediately.

What do we do next? We run to a store in search of batteries. But to our dismay, most of them are closed, the open ones have raised the prices drastically, and they are always sold out of the size we need. What a mess, no batteries, little children (and big) children upset, no toys to play with, no peace, no joy. Is the day ruined? I don't think so. It is exactly in times like these that we need to remember the true meaning of Christmas, the Celebration of Jesus' birth. We give gifts, but he is the gift. Wise men followed the star which is light and ended up finding the Light.

Just like some of our presents won't work without batteries, our lives don't function properly if we are not connected to the right power. Acts 1:8 says “You shall receive power. When the Holy Spirit comes on you.” Sometimes, just like the batteries in our toys need to be replaced or recharged, we need to be mindful of checking our connection with our Power Source

Thank you, Father for sending your son Jesus, the gift, the light and power. When we are connected to your energy force, all is well in our lives.

© 2011 Wanda Currie

God's Super Glue

2011-12-17T17:29:00.001-05:00

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted. Luke 4:18a (KJV)

I have a glass-enclosed cabinet with several glass shelves that hold all of the beautiful, expensive Hummel figurines my husband and daughter have given me. Once a year I open the case and clean them. I clean all the glass and wood on the case and then replace the Hummels. One time doing this chore, I cracked one of the largest, most loved figurines, thereby causing it to lose its charm. I was brokenhearted. Quickly finding the super glue, I put it back together, holding it tightly until the pieces bonded. The break is not visible, but it is no longer perfect. Still, it has value to me.

Are we not like that in the eyes of our Lord? None of us are perfect. We were not born perfect, yet our Lord cares for each of us. He is there for us to lean upon when we are brokenhearted. Imagine our hearts within our chests, literally cracked and broken from some unhappy incident, or perhaps our spirits broken at the loss of a loved one. Imagine too, that Jesus comes to our aid, putting our hearts back together with His super glue of love. We may think about the scars, but Jesus loves us unconditionally. His love makes us whole in His sight. He values us as priceless.

Lord, may Your Holy Spirit rest upon me so that I may do my part in sharing Your healing gospel of love. Amen.

(c) 2011 E. Bonnie Ryan

Christmas Gift Exchange

2011-12-16T20:21:00.003-05:00

Every good and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights. James 1:17 NKJV

One Christmas morning from my childhood sticks out in my memory. My father was so excited about the gift that Santa had left for my three year old brother, Dick. My parents directed Dick’s attention to a large decorated box. They gave him instructions to tear off the ribbon and paper. But he was content to sit, suck his thumb, hold his blankie and admire the box. He looked at them as if to say, “Why destroy the pretty box?”

Dick got in the swing of things and started tearing paper, a fun game, although he couldn’t tear paper any other time. Paper flew this way and that, and now and then Mom or Dad would coax off a stubborn piece. Finally, a peddle car was exposed. Dad lifted the car and placed it in the middle of the room. Dick’s face glowed with delight as he pulled over the box, grabbed his blanket and crawled inside. He was content.

“The car is your gift, Dick. Come sit in your new car.” Dad picked Dick up to place him in the car. But Dick screamed and kicked, and finally Dad put him down and he ran back into the box, blankie in hand. Mom and Dad kept saying. “The car is your gift.” Dad was disappointed.

Today, as I look around at all the Christmas decorations, at all the elaborate spending, I want to shout, “People, Jesus is your Gift.” You won’t be disappointed. In Him you have peace, security and love.

Dear Lord, forgive us for our misguided loyalities. Ignite our hearts that Jesus is the Gift. Amen.

© 2011 Lois Gosley

Ruining the Surprise

2011-12-15T07:14:00.002-05:00

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.” Luke 2:10 (NIV)

Some people cannot stand surprises. I have a friend who is forced to hide his wife’s Christmas gifts at other people’s houses. Helping him one year, I recalled a picture my mother took long ago of my father, hunched over in the dark by the tree. He was unwrapping and peeking into his Christmas gifts!

If Mom had not caught him in the act, or had not photographed proof of his guilt, I don’t think we ever would have found out. As it was, it was difficult to believe. Every fold and piece of tape were put back with precision when he finished his investigation.

I have the opposite problem. I never mind waiting for my gift; however, I do find it difficult to not tell others what I have gotten for them. Excitement wells in my heart, not just because of the time and thought that went into the gift, but because I just know it's the perfect gift for them. They'll love it.

I guess it’s true either way—a good gift is hard to keep secret.

Prophets said Christ would come. When he did, a host of angels proclaimed it to the world, singing “Glory to God in the highest!” The secret was out. Through that one perfect and eternal gift, we received acceptance, belonging, redemption, security, love, and so much more. At last—peace with God.

So don’t get upset when someone “ruins the surprise,” or even when you let the secret slip yourself. God did, and look how that turned out!

Lord, thank you for sharing your gift with the world.

© 2011 Katherine A. Fuller

2011-12-09T06:43:00.003-05:00

Waiting on the Path

Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.
Psalm 25:4-5 (NIV)

An old allegory tells the story of a man’s walk along a path. When the man stays on the designated path, his life goes well. When he strays off the walkway, he ends up in terrible trouble. After facing and overcoming perilous dangers, he learns the way to life with God along the original narrow road.

In my Christian walk I have occasionally gone in the wrong direction. The step off God’s path was barely noticeable at first. The people I chose to spend time with negatively influenced my walk in subtle ways. Some shared inspirational ideas that seemed to be about God, but they were not living according to His principles.

What we see in movies, what we read or listen to online, and where we go may lead us astray. Although we may have taken a wrong turn years ago, God always gives us an opportunity to return to Him and walk His way.

God has given His word to teach us His precepts for living. We can learn to be discerning about what we see and hear, and we can choose friends who are going in the same direction with the Lord. In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus told the crowd that the road that leads to destruction is broad, but the road that leads to life is narrow. I want to stay on that narrow road.

I thank you, Father, for waiting for me to return to walk with you. Guide me to stay on your path. Amen

© 2011 Diane E. Hussey

Christmas Carols

2011-12-04T19:05:00.002-05:00

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2:14 (NIV)

What Christmas carol that still sung today dates back to the Middle Ages? The answer: “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”.

Chapters 1 and 2 of Luke are the basis for many well known Christmas carols. “Away in A Manger”; “Silent Night, Holy Night”; “Joy To The World”; “What Child is This”; and “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” are just a few examples of the songs that originated from the book of Luke.

I just love listening to “What Child is This”. As a mother of three children I can not imagine what Mary had to endure while preparing for the birth of Jesus. “Away in A Manger” makes me feel for the hardship of Mary having to lay Jesus in a manger. “Silent Night, Holy Night” helps me to see what a special moment in history this was. “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” makes me want to sing His praises to the world. My heart is filled with joy when I listen to “Joy To The World”. I could listen to Christmas Carols all year. In fact I do.

“O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” has endured the passing of time. This classic helps us see that Jesus is always with us whether or not it is Christmas . I will always love the carols. Just reread the story of Jesus' birth and try to think up other songs we sing this time of the year.

Thank you Jesus for the time to remember the story of “Your” birth through the songs of Christmas. Help me to always sing with the joy of your presence.

© 2011 Dawn M Sexton

Christian Splotches or Christian Nature?

2011-11-25T14:59:00.012-05:00

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Galatians 5:22-23 (RSV)

During Sunday dinner at a restaurant, my husband stared at my new jacket. Sporting splotches of fall's bright red, orange, yellow and brown colors, it reminded me of harvest time.

"Did I spill something?" I asked.

"Who can tell?" was the reply.

Returning home, I put the jacket away and wondered how often Christian life intersects with that question. "Who can tell?" Are we so busy that one spiritual fruit dropped into the mix just disappears? Hopefully, anyone who comes near sees a whole person living a life dedicated to Christ, not somebody wearing a jacket with superficial splashes of Christianity plopped down here and there.

Following his list, Paul concentrates on the first spiritual fruit, love. It's the one which dominates as he talks about the Lord's teaching, "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Gal 5:14b). Then he ends by stating that those belonging to Christ have crucified their passions and desires of the flesh. He also encourages his readers to walk by the Lord's teachings.

Paul's explanation shows that the fruit of the Spirit is internal, not external. The spiritual fruits serve to identify Christians because they are embedded for eternity. Anyone led by the Spirit will, by nature, exhibit the fruit which arises, like the colors of autumn, from the heart of our Creator.

Lord, may our hearts allow you to lead us to be identified as Christians. Amen

© 2011 V. Colclasure

Memories of Laughter

2011-11-18T06:38:00.001-05:00

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances.
I Thessalonians 5:16, 17a (NIV)

As a child, I looked forward to Thanksgiving because I knew we would spend it at Grandma and Grandpa’s cozy home in Topeka, Kansas. My grandma’s cooking tasted so good to me. She made her own noodles. They were still moist when she cooked them. We loved her chewy noodles.

My uncles loved to play tricks on their wives and sisters. As the women prepared dinner, one of the uncles would quietly tie their apron strings together. Everyone told jokes and shared stories about the silliest things their children had done.

Up to a certain age, the children ate in the kitchen. When we were old enough, we would be allowed to eat at the table in the dining room. I felt special when I was able to share the piano bench with my older cousin at the “grown up” table.

Before the meal, Grandma always made sure we said grace thanking God for the food. Once again, my uncles teased about everything. If someone was too slow passing a dish, they joked about the meal being over before the food got around the table. One uncle told funny stories about working at a mortuary. I remember the fun we had being together laughing, talking and eating.

God blesses us with happy times enjoyed with our families. My grandma and grandpa are no longer here, nor is the cousin who sat on the piano bench with me. I am thankful that I shared those days with the people who loved and cared for me.

Dear Father, I thank you for the precious memories I have of laughter and fun with the family you gave me. In Jesus name, Amen.

© 2011 Diane E. Hussey

Keep in Step

2011-11-11T08:56:00.003-05:00

If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. Galatians 5:25-26 (ESV)

The light turned green, and the car in front of me did not move. After waiting what seemed to be minutes, I beeped the car horn. The car did not move. What is wrong with that lady? I’ll bet she is on her cell phone.

I waited for what seemed like several more minutes and with a huff, honked the horn again. Her car moved and then stopped quickly. A blue pickup truck blew through the intersection running a red light.

I sat stunned. If the lady had moved on my second provoking, she would have been broadsided by the truck. If she had proceeded on my first horn toot, I would have followed her through the green light and I would have been broadsided.

What came to mind was that God protected us. I being pushy and indignant accused the lady of not paying attention to her driving. How many times do I bulldoze through life? Galatians 5 also states, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV).

Was the driver of the first car obeying the Holy Spirit? I do not know, but I do know that our lives were spared that day. God taught me a lesson about patience, kindness, and self-control. I was not exhibiting the fruit of the Holy Spirit, and He revealed to me why I should listen to Him.

Dear Lord, You use all things to teach us. May we be more obedient, listening when You direct.

Fierce Love

2011-11-06T19:58:00.001-05:00

This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. Luke 2:34b-35a (NIV)

I recently watched a sobering documentary about exotic pets. Cute and cuddly when little (as all babies are), exotic animals grow into unpredictable, dangerous adults. Many owners are injured or killed by “pets” that have been removed from natural habitats to live among their quarry. Allowing a beast of prey to wander one’s property is not the brightest of ideas.

How easy it is to treat our Savior the same way, viewing Him only as the “little Lord Jesus,” or as the peaceful figure portrayed in stained-glass windows. Dorothy Sayers said it well. “We have very efficiently pared the claws of the Lion of Judah, certified him ‘meek and mild,’ and recommended him as a fitting household pet.”

Jesus, however, will not be tamed. He lived on the edge—His most dangerous act, revealing the hearts of men. He did the unexpected. The Lion of Judah left His realm of glory to dwell as a lamb among self-righteous, wicked, and wounded men. His light tore through the darkness and exposed sin. No wonder they found it necessary to kill Him.

But they could not keep Him down. Our Lion lives! He is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. The world calls us unlovely. The devil accuses. We even tell ourselves that we are unworthy. But His voice roars above the din that we are loved, that we are forgiven, and that we are accepted in the Beloved. How fierce is His love!

Lord, help us live courageously, as bold as lions, faithfully proclaiming Your love to the world.

© 2011 Katherine A. Fuller

The Odd Puzzle

2011-10-28T08:09:00.006-04:00

We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. Romans 8:28 (NLT)

At one time in my life, I enjoyed putting puzzles together. Sitting for hours at the kitchen table, I would stare at all of the pieces, try to figure out where they belonged and how in the world all these little pieces would end up looking like the picture on the box.

Eventually, with patience, time and perseverance one piece would connect with one piece and two pieces would connect with two pieces and finally the picture on the table would match the picture on the box.

That is the same way God works in our lives. He already knows the end. He fashioned us in our mother’s womb. We just have to have faith to endure the process on allowing His will to be revealed to us one piece at a time. Sometimes it is a word, a song, a person or situation each coming together for His purpose for us.

When we are in the middle of the process like a puzzle, it is sometimes difficult to see how all the pieces will fit together because it takes too long. We don’t see how the different shape and sizes of pieces belongs to this puzzle. At that point instead of submitting to God’s will piece by piece, we sometimes resort to self will, forcing the pieces in places where they don’t belong. We become frustrated and then quit instead of relying on God’s will.

Thank You Father for an odd puzzle to teach me how to wait on your will, all the pieces are working together for the purpose you have for us.

© 2011 Wanda Currie

A Gentle Whisper

2011-10-21T06:17:00.002-04:00

Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper . . . then a voice said . . . “What are you doing here, Elijah?”
(I Kings 19:11-12,13c NIV)

God was not in the destructive power of betrayal that tore apart and shattered my marriage. God was not in the earthquake of the divorce that split open a 34-year covenant. And He was not in the fire that burned away my identity as a wife. In the aftermath of the wind, earthquake and fire that changed my life forever, I cried out to God.

In the cacophony of my endless weeping and self-pity, I was unable to hear God’s voice. In the pain of my broken heart, I could not hear God. In the searing sorrow of abandonment, I clung to the past and refused to listen to Him. I was obsessed with a former husband who no longer loved me.

After the noise subsided, I grew quiet before the Lord. He spoke to me in a gentle whisper, “What are you doing here, Diane? You are free now to become the woman I created you to be. Now, go and live your new life.”

Thank you, Father, for waiting patiently for me to listen to your gentle whisper. Please strengthen me to let go of the past and guide me toward to a new future. . In Jesus Name, Amen

© 2011 Diane E. Hussey

Pink Hope

2011-10-14T10:49:00.033-04:00

"And now Lord for what do I wait? My hope is in You. Psalm 39:7 NAS

There is a pink pen in my Bible decorated with ribbons for Breast Cancer Awareness. It has the words; hope, courage, strength, inspiration and cure. The message is clear to those diagnosed and struggling with surviving breast cancer: hang in there; don't give up; be courageous and strong; live life renewed. There is hope—hope for a cure.

Those words so carefully chosen for those in desperate need of hope also describe Jesus. He is the ultimate hope and cure for all our ills, be they emotional, spiritual, or physical. We have hope in all things on this earth and in Heaven through Jesus our Redeemer. We can have courage to face each day without fear when we know Jesus as Savior. He becomes our strength. His strength is made perfect in our weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:9

If there is any cure, any healing, it will ultimately come through His hands; whether it is miraculous thus defying explanation, aided by the skill of surgeons, or by the knowledge of researchers studying DNA and developing chemotherapy.. There is nothing out of the realm of His care and providence. His hand is in it and on it—all of the time.

He is our inspiration. He fills us with desire to know more of Him. We are inspired and empowered by the Holy Spirit when we meditate on His word and seek Him in prayer. He fills us to overflowing. He gives strength to the weak, hope to the hopeless, and courage to the fearful.

Precious loving Father, please fill the hearts of the desperate with the hope of You. Amen.

(c) 2011 Bonnie Mae Evans

Crickets and Salvation

2011-10-07T15:15:00.005-04:00

… no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him—but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit. 1 Corinthians 2: 9-10 (NIV)

Walking out the door of my house preparing to water my garden, I noticed a cricket on its back wiggling in place, apparently struggling to right itself. It is my understanding that insects are unable to survive if they remain upside down. Having nothing against crickets unless they are in my home, I attempted to assist in the salvation of this creature by turning it over with my toe. The wiggling body moved about three inches, but my purpose was not achieved. The insect’s movements became more vigorous. Trying again only pushed Mr. Cricket's entire body partially under a hose reel, where, out of my reach and apparently still upside down, his movements became more violent. However, tipping the hose reel over, I found a happily saved cricket.

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As I walked away, the Holy Spirit brought a thought to my mind. There is a person who has been the subject of my prayers and frequent testimony for over thirty years. She has not yet received the Lord Jesus as her Savior. She is well aware of where I stand and “wiggles violently” when too much “God talk” makes its way into our time together. Recently she called me seeking answers to questions she had heard elsewhere.

The door was open for a deep conversation about salvation. My prayer is that she is “under the hose reel” and God is finishing the job.

Dear Lord, reveal yourself to this person and allow the Holy Spirit to woo her into acceptance of your redeeming grace.

Christianity 101

2011-09-30T21:30:00.003-04:00

You shall love your neighbor as yourself. Matthew 22:39 (RSV)

College. Educational Psychology 214. I really wanted to find an answer to my quintessential question, “What happens in a person’s mind so that learning occurs?”

The text book was not clear; neither was the instructor. I attended every class and listened to the presenter—medium-height, around age 30, sandy-colored hair, glasses, a bony/angular kind of guy. With only two classes left, I asked a question to which he responded explosively. On the board, he drew a super-size “continuum” (the same one from the first class) which did not relate to anything. Disgusted, I gave up on him.

Unknown to me, department faculty had been standing behind one-way mirrors. So, on the next class day, a substitute told us our instructor had a brain tumor. I was shocked! Not at the problem, but at myself. Jesus was asking, “Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye” (Luke 6:41).

Jesus keeps teaching: “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, killing the prophets and stoning those who are sent to you! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under his wings, and you would not!” (Matthew 23:37). Jesus knows the hearts of men and he knew how much I deserved an attitude check.

Ed Psych 214 turned out to be Back-to-the Basics, Christianity 101. I had to relearn “You shall love your neighbor as yourself." The Holy Spirit uses His own teaching/learning methods, brings Jesus’ words to our minds and teaches us right from wrong. The Lord never gives up on anyone–not you, not me.

Lord, thank you for teaching and forgiving us. Amen.

©) 2011 V. Colclasure

Jesus Prayed

2011-09-25T11:45:00.004-04:00

My prayer is not for them alone. I pray for those who will believe in me through this message, that all of them may be one, Father. John 17:20,21a (NIV)

I’m not sure at what age I became a Christian. I was very young. The movie, King of Kings, came out when I was in elementary school. It impacted my life in a powerful, positive manner. It was the first time I saw the story of Jesus and His crucifixion. From then on, my heart belonged to Jesus.

When my older sister, Gene, was fifteen and I was thirteen, I awakened in the wee hours of the morning to her soft sobs. She was on her knees by her bedside, hands clasped in prayer. Tears streamed down her face as she prayed fervently to Jesus. My heart melted with love for her, hurting for her tears. In the moonlight she seemed to glow softly. Gene and I remain close as sisters and friends, not only of the flesh, but of the spirit.

At night I pray for my family, thanking God for the love we share. In the seventeenth chapter of John, Jesus prayed for His earthly family, His disciples. But, what awes me the most is to realize that He prayed for all of us today who believe because of the Good News of the Gospel. Jesus prayed before He died upon the cross, that those crucifying Him may be forgiven. At James 5:16, He left us instructions to pray for each other so that we may be healed. Jesus prayed for me and you. I am grateful.

Dear Lord Jesus, thank You for praying for me before I was, and for all those who will come after me. Amen.

© 2011 E. Bonnie Ryan

Treasure in Jars of Clay

2011-09-16T06:43:00.003-04:00

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day . . . For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened . . . (2 Corinthians 4:16, 5:4a NIV)

I remember a line from a song, “life is hard, but God is good.” We all face physical, emotional or mental pain in life. Some suffer from depression, physical disabilities or anxiety. Our aging bodies betray us with the discovery of new aches and pains. Paul reminds us that our frail earthly bodies are wasting away and are temporary. When viewed from God’s eternal perspective, our life on this earth is rather short.

Although our bodies and minds are vulnerable to physical and mental problems, we are not to become discouraged. We have “this treasure in jars of clay”—the good news of salvation hidden inside the fragile human bodies of believers (2 Corinthians 4:7a). My aging body hurts from the ravages of arthritis, but the promise of eternal life with my Savior far outweighs this temporary pain. When I am short of money or feel lonely, I sometimes feel angry or sad. Jesus’ words in John encourage me to “take heart” because He has overcome the world.

In the last book of the Bible God gives His children a beautiful promise: “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain for the old order of things has passed away . . . I am making everything new!” (Revelation 21:4,5b).

Dear Father, Growing old and feeling sad are hard, but I look forward to spending eternity with You. Thank You for sending Jesus and for making everything new. Amen

© 2011 Diane E. Hussey

Love Hurts

2011-09-09T22:40:00.002-04:00

“Save Yourself, and come down from the cross!” Mark 15:30 (NKJV)

I sat in church recently as the pastor delivered a message about the crucifixion. I am an “irony girl,” so the Pharisees’ taunting words to our Savior captured my imagination. Jesus could have done it.

He could have come down from the cross, dooming us to a Godless eternity. He could even have cursed us with His dying breath. Instead, the holy Lamb of God endured the pain, shame, and horror of becoming sin for us. His reply was unexpected.

“Father, forgive them.”

Those words alone should have pierced their hearts with conviction, but it didn’t. Jesus meant it, though. What better way could He have chosen to prove He was God’s Son? He is love, and love dictated His response.

The Pharisees missed the point. They told Jesus to save Himself, but Christ came to save them. He fulfilled God’s law and became the only one qualified to save men. Jesus took our sin upon His own body and accepted the wrath of His Father in our stead. God accepted that sacrifice, proved when He raised Christ from the dead. The walls that separated us from our Creator crumbled, giving us access to Him once again.

How ironic! “Save yourself?” “Come down from the cross?” Not a chance. In my mind, I imagine Jesus gritting bloody teeth to smile through the pain. Love hurts.

Thank You, Jesus, for the great love You have for us, and for the lengths You went in order to have fellowship with us once again. We desire to express the same unconditional, self-sacrificing love for one another.

© 2010 Katherine A. Fuller

Raindrops of Love

2011-09-02T20:56:00.003-04:00

Be strong and of good courage . . . it is the Lord your God who goes with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6 (RSV)

Raindrops always remind me of God’s love. When it rained on my wedding day bringing the song’s “Showers of Blessings,” I first associated rain with God’s love. I did the same on another gray, lonely day. Feeling depressed, I was in front of an open window. My husband and sons were attending a football game because one son was performing in the marching band. When it began to thunder and storm, I thought about the “mercy drops” and asked that they fall on me. I needed evidence of God’s love and presence.

Shortly, God answered. The wind blew more strongly, and raindrops came past a bush in front of the window, even flying through a screen, before hitting my face. Contrarily, I decided if I didn’t want to get wet, I’d better move. However, those few drops were nothing compared to my drenched husband and sons who came rushing home. The game was cancelled and band uniforms were ruined. Weeks later, people still talked about that downpour, but I never confessed.

I don’t wonder why God answered in such a remarkable way. He wants His followers to know He is faithful and loves them. He can be counted on to teach us that if He answers the little prayers, He is able also to answer all prayers – even those which seem impossible.

God is faithful, but sometimes we forget. The concrete evidence of answered prayer reminds us of His work and faithful presence in our lives. Raindrops help me remember.

Lord, thank You for never leaving nor forsaking us. Thank You for Your faithfulness. Amen.

© 2011 Virginia Colclasure

Never Alone

2011-08-26T14:53:00.004-04:00

The Lord your God is with you. He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you. He will quiet you with His love. He will rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17 (KJV)

There are times when I feel utterly alone. I cannot pray or even think clearly. Taking my Bible, I go outside to sit on the swing. Only the sound of birds singing, bees buzzing and chattering squirrels break the silence.

Peace enfolds me as bits of sunshine hit my face through the thick canopy of leaves overhead. I let the pages of my Bible fall open and read the scripture above. Letting myself dwell on every word, I realize I need not feel alone, that the Father, the Holy Spirit and Jesus are with me, loving me, lifting me from the depths of depression that threaten to destroy me.

Suddenly my spirit feels light, rejuvenated. A favorite hymn rises in my throat and I belt out the words from a James Rowe song, "Love lifted me."

I leap out of the swing, dance around the yard, and hug my Bible close to my heart in the early morning sunshine. Yes! God's love lifted me. What a happy day!

Thank You, Lord, for each day you give me. You delight in me and quiet me with your love. Amen

(c) 2011 E.Bonnie Ryan

Quiet Love

2011-08-19T09:44:00.009-04:00

Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory. Romans 15:7 NLT

As my newly wedded husband and I prepared to leave for our honeymoon, my mother-in-law sweetly mentioned her hope that we would find a nice church to attend after we moved. She was a Christian--polar opposite of my claim of being agnostic. I replied that finding a church was not in my plan. She smiled undaunted and hugged me good-bye.

During those tumultuous, early years of our marriage, her love and acceptance remained steadfast. In retrospect, after experiencing both salvation and motherhood, I am amazed at her self-control. Although I knew it was of great concern to her, “Mom” did not nag us about going to church. She was never judgmental. Quite the contrary, she encouraged me, praising my efforts as a new wife. When I mentioned a problem she responded that she would pray and took the opportunity to quietly share how much the Lord loved and cared for me. I felt totally loved and accepted. Whenever we returned home for a visit, I noticed how she sat in her rocker faithfully praying and reading her Bible every evening before going to bed.

When faced with my own mortality following a cancer diagnosis four years later, I knew when I died my soul was bound for hell. I willingly accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior and rested in His love and forgiveness. That was thirty-three years ago. I truly believe that Mom’s prayers and quiet acceptance simply loved me to the Lord. Sometimes love is spoken loudest with no words at all.

Father, Thank You for everyone along our journey who prayed, accepting us with love. May all the glory be Yours. Amen.

Think on These Things

2011-08-12T07:09:00.002-04:00

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, . . . honest, . . . just, . . . pure, . . . lovely, . . . of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8 (KJV)

How many thoughts run in my mind throughout the day? let me count the ways. Thoughts of finances, work, family, friends sickness, health, the good, the bad and (no, not the ugly) runs rampant each day. These thoughts turns into worries when I find that things are not going according to my plans. My focus is no longer on the things on which God would have me focus.

It is hard to keep a positive outlook on life when everything seems to be falling apart around you, your family and friends. Loss of loved ones, jobs homes and hope rule your thoughts. Philippians 4:6 tells me "be careful for nothing: but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be known unto God." (KJV)

When I take time out of my day to be in the presence of God in prayer, He helps direct my thoughts on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely and of good report. I can not do it in my own power. It is only through His power that I am strong enough to change my thoughts.

This is a daily struggle for me. Yet, I look forward to God's grace in dealing with the many trials I face. I want Him to be the author of my thoughts.

Thank you God that You are the author of my thoughts and the answer to my prayers. Help me to keep focus on You each day.

(c) Dawn M Sexton

Tears for a Soldier

2011-08-07T13:48:00.007-04:00

There is a time for everything … a time to be born and a time to die … a time for war and a time for peace. (Ecc. 3:1,3:8 NIV)

Struck by gunshot, the Captain’s gloved hand reflexively moved to the wound on his forehead. Men under his command carried him to a field hospital. He died the next morning at age 36.

The day before the battle, he shared with his commanding officer a premonition that death loomed in his immediate future. He requested that his handwritten letter be sent, along with his belongings, to his wife and three daughters who were praying for him.

His canteen, hacky sack, uniform and blood stained white glove still exist. I have seen them. This is remarkable because he died on September 20, 1863 during the Civil War battle of Chickamauga, Tennessee.

Why then, do I find myself teary eyed when I think of this incident? I can touch his humanity because Wm. Jonas Leas was my great-great grandfather.

Captain Leas’ dedication to God and country is no different than his descendents who fought in WWII, nor his forefathers in the Revolutionary War, nor present day patriots fighting in Afghanistan.

God has repeatedly called His people to battle. I believe that war sometimes brings His will to bear. The Lord has honored our belief in Him as a nation with victory in many battles in our over 235-year history as a nation.

However, individual stories of men and women who have suffered loss in these wars should not be discounted or forgotten but rather remembered and honored.

Lord thank You for blessing our nation and for those brave men and women who served You and our country. © Christy Struben 2011

Good Grief

2011-07-29T14:00:00.003-04:00

Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I have kept Your word. It is good that I have been afflicted, that I may learn Your statutes. Psalms 119:67,71 (NKJV)

The first time I was afflicted was when I was a little girl. I was too young to know what the word “afflicted” meant, I just knew that it hurt.

Although the suffering was not of my own making, it was the beginning of my relationship with God. When my mother and father abandoned me, it was the Lord who took care of me. In addition to providing food, clothing, shelter and education. Most importantly, He gave his word, love, and love of others.

From the very beginning, I learned and still do trust and depend on Him. Through all my experiences, I know and tell others that He will never leave nor forsake us.

My current season of affliction is much like David’s. David made a wrong decision with Bathsheba. It didn’t matter that he caused his own afflictions, God still used it to shape him and make him grow. In the same way, I have wandered from God through poor choices, but my heavenly Father lovingly corrected me. But may the Lord of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while perfect, establish, strengthen and settle you. 1 Peter 5:10 (NKJV)

When I am afflicted, it helps me to remember that God is in control and that He has my best in mind. He will use it to cleanse me and I, in turn can encourage others in their afflictions.

Thank You Father for the blessing of affliction, through it lessons, I have learned your love, faithfulness, mercy and grace.

© 2011 Wanda Currie

Broken Hearts

2011-07-22T06:48:00.001-04:00

He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. (Psalm 147:3 NIV)

I sat with my twin grandchildren searching for clues in the pages of a book filled with mysterious photographs. On one page, I noticed a small broken heart-shaped locket. I asked my grandchildren, “What does it mean to have a broken heart?” Without hesitation, my four-year old grandson responded, “It’s when somebody doesn’t love you anymore.” I was astonished. This little boy had captured the essence of a broken heart. How could a small child express so profound a truth?

My husband chose to stop loving me and walked away from our marriage. He broke my heart. I struggled with the pain of the loss of my relationship with him and with his rejection of me. But I remembered God’s promise to heal my broken heart, and His assurance that He would be close to me in my despair. As I trusted my Savior, He walked with me through the long process of grieving my loss. Slowly, my life began to change as He released me from sorrow and into freedom with Him. I have prayed, as David prayed, “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me . . . Restore to me the joy of Your salvation.” Psalm 51:10, 12a NIV).

When our hearts have been crushed by the failure of a business, or the loss of a loved one, our hopes and dreams lie at our feet. When we face these devastating losses, we can rest in the loving arms of our Savior who promised to bind up our wounds.

Dear Father, I need Your hand on my heart as it continues to heal. Thank You for Your loving faithfulness as we walk this path together. Amen

© 2011 Diane E. Hussey

The Spirit of the Letter

2011-07-16T10:37:00.002-04:00

I had many things to write, but I do not wish to write to you with pen and ink; but I hope to see you shortly, and we shall speak face to face. 3 John 1:13-14a (NKJV)

When I was a little girl I wrote a long letter to my favorite television star. I poured my heart out on those pages, and I wanted to know everything about her, too. The response? A form letter, full of facts and figures.

God wrote us a letter, too. He poured out his heart, writing down everything about Himself, and everything we would need to sustain us in this life. But He knew we would need more, because His ways and His wisdom are not like ours. To our limited understanding, His letter would seem like just a bunch of facts and figures—dos and don’ts. We could never understand the depth of His love, or know how deeply he feels our pain. So He sent the Holy Spirit to impart His message to our hearts.

In a way the Bible is like a form letter in that He only wrote one; however, the similarity ends there. Through the Spirit, God’s words take on new life and meaning for each one of us individually. “Dos” become opportunities, and “don’ts” become protection. His words communicate something new every time we delve into them. They teach us how to love Him, how to love ourselves, and how to love one another. And if we pay attention as we open His letter and begin to read, we may just hear Him say, “I hope to see you shortly, and we shall speak face to face.”

Father, thank You so much for Your letter. We can’t wait to see You!

© 2011 Katherine A. Fuller

Spiritual Blemishes

2011-07-08T13:58:00.005-04:00

These are the ones that come out of the great tribulation, and they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Revelation 7:14b (NWT)

Distressed to see grease spots still on the front of it, I ironed my blouse. I had sprayed the spots with pre-wash before putting it in the washer, but the spots were still there. As I ironed, it occurred to me that the spots were like my soul, marked by human imperfection and sinfulness. The next time I do laundry, I will try another pre-wash and let the blouse sit for a while.

I used to wear bib-aprons when I cooked. I think it would be wise for me to go back to that practice of protecting the front of my clothing. Like that apron, God protects me from the world of sin around me. Jesus represents the cleansing power that, through His blood, washes the dirt and grease of sin from my soul. With help, my spiritual laundry is guaranteed to be whiter than snow.

Thinking on these things, I am reminded of Ephesians 6:11 which says to put on the complete suit of armor from God that you may be able to stand firm against the machinations of the Devil. The best way I can do that is to read my Bible daily so I can prepare for whatever soil I have to wash out of my day. And I'll thank God for His Son, who has cleansed me of all unrighteousness.

Dear Father, we children sometimes err and get our spiritual clothing spotted. Open our eyes to our mistakes so we may ask Your forgiveness through the cleansing blood of Jesus, our Savior. Amen

(c) 2011 E. Bonnie Ryan

Under Whose Control?

2011-07-01T09:31:00.005-04:00

Being then made free from sin, you become the servants of righteousness. (Romans 6:18 NIV)

On July 4, 1776, members of the Continental Congress representing the thirteen American colonies approved the Declaration of Independence. This document proclaims, “these united Colonies are and of right ought to be Free and Independent States.”

The colonists desired to be free of English control. They desired to be independent and pursue life on their own.

What a blessing to be free from control of others and to make our own decisions personally and as a nation. It is proper that we celebrate this holiday with family gatherings, picnics and fireworks.

Yet many in this country have relinquished their spiritual independence to sin, which robs them of the ability to stand on their own. They have lost their personal freedom and are regulated by external forces.

Jesus came to set us free from sin. He said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples, Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31 NIV)

I have discovered an irony in accepting Jesus as my savior. His sacrifice freed from sin and spiritual death. However, I willingly give up my independence to rely on Him and gladly seek His control over my life.

I justifiably give thanks to God that I live this life on earth in a free and independent nation. I also exalt my Savior because He has given me a life that is further blessed through His control.

Dear Lord, Thank You for the gift of Your Son that has made my soul and sprit free. And thank You for a country that allows me to declare myself a bond servant to You.

© Christy Struben 2011

Spots

2011-06-24T00:15:00.005-04:00

And stretching out His hand, He touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed.” And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. Matthew 8:3 NAS

My daughter was telling me she had run into an acquaintance from her past and that he had changed for the better. Remembering her bitter experience and how she had been disappointed, I quickly said, “A leopard doesn’t change his spots.” I was cynical that he would ever change.

Immediately, the Holy Spirit nudged my heart with the words, “No, but it was I who cleansed the leper’s spots.” I recalled the stories in the Bible where Jesus healed the lepers. They were unable to heal themselves, but their lives were completely changed by His touch, just as my life had been transformed when He touched my heart and forgave my sins.

Who was I to judge this young man so severely? At his age I was still unsaved, unable to change on my own. Jesus died to do what we cannot. He can change our hearts, erase our blemishes and bring us spotless before Him.

Convinced, I prayed and asked the Lord to forgive my sinful attitude and to help me see with Christ-like eyes. I began to pray often for his salvation. I don’t know how he’s doing today or where he stands with the Lord, but I do know that the Lord loves him and died for him, so I will continue to pray.

Thank You Jesus, that Your love for us is so great that You willingly died and rose again so that we could be forgiven and cleansed of all unrighteousness. Thank You for washing our spots away with Your precious blood. Amen.

Father Time

2011-06-17T22:49:00.000-04:00

But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” Luke 18:16 (KJV)

I asked my grandson, “What would make a great father?” His reply was, “ A father who does tickle time.” I thought that was a silly answer, but then realized that it revealed something else. You see my grandson does not get to see his father often.

Our grandson learned about "tickle time" by playing with my husband who also loves the game. It became an all out war of who got tickled the most. Our grandson craved and appreciated the attention and unconditional love he received.

Similarly, we long for relationships with our Father in Heaven. Jesus demonstrated the way to spend time with the Father when He constantly withdrew to pray in synagogues, in towns like Capernaum, or in the wilderness.

Jesus also modeled the unconditional love of fatherhood. He took the time to allow the children to come to him. He would not hinder them and rebuked His disciples when they tried to keep the children away.

Now, I look to Jesus’ example, spend time with my heavenly Father and enjoy learning from Him. Our Heavenly Father is always available and finds joy with anyone who comes to Him.

Thank you Father for the “tickle time” we get to have with You. Thank you for being the kind of Father who loves to spend time with us.
© 2011 Dawn M Sexton

Being Saved

2011-06-10T10:04:00.007-04:00

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hebrews 13:8 (NKJV)

Yesterday: The Lord heard the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah and sent His angel. First, though, he talked with Abraham whose rather contentious relative, Lot, lived in Sodom.

Abraham begged God to spare the cities from destruction if ten good people could be found there. The Lord agreed because of His righteousness and because of His love for Abraham.

What surprises us is that God went further. When ten could not be found, His angel sent Lot and his whole family away just before the maelstrom struck.

Today: We read this story in awe because of what it reveals: What God did in the Old Testament, He did again in the New. Jesus, like Abraham, prayed for men's salvation. He too went further. In a garden, He prayed for our sanctification. "I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in me through their word" (John 17:20).

We trust God who keeps His promises yesterday, today, and forever. Just as He saved Lot out of evil and immorality, He saved and sanctifies us.

Forever: Paul tells us another mystery, and we recognize its truth. The time will come when the trumpet sounds, and the sleeping and not yet sleeping will be saved out of corruption to enter eternity. Jesus' prayer for believers covers the future.

Lot benefited from Abraham's prayers and received mercy. We have the prayers and sacrifice of Christ, the Messiah. Knowing His word is true, we trust, and look forward to eternity. How great, gracious, and loving is He!

Praise be to the Lord who is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

© 2011 V. Colclasure

Staying Stuck

2011-06-03T09:23:00.001-04:00

I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus . . . one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12b,13b,14 (NASB)

It is easy to focus so much on situations and relationships from the past that it is difficult to get on with life. The death of a family member, divorce or the loss of your home to a tornado is devastating. A close friend reminded me recently that I enjoy the sympathy I receive from others when I linger in my self-pity. I stay stuck in my memories of past hurts and continue feeling sorry for myself.

In the book of Philippians, Paul exhorts us to press on toward the life God has for us. We are unable to more forward without putting the past behind us. We may never forget what happened, but we can step out in faith and trust God as we put one tentative foot in front of the other. God is with us and “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds” (Psalm 147:3 NIV).

Note all the action words in this passage: press on, lay hold, forgetting, reaching forward. It is clear that God is urging me not to stay stuck in selfish fretting over my painful past, but to move on toward the future He has for me in Christ.

Dear Father, I put my hope in Your unfailing love and choose to trust You for the future. In Jesus Name, Amen.

© 2011 Diane E. Hussey

Something from Nothing

2011-05-29T14:15:00.002-04:00

“What can I do to help you?” Elisha asked. “Tell me, what do you have in the house?” “Nothing at all, except a flask of olive oil,” she replied. 2 Kings 4:2 (NLT)

Lyle and Devin rummaged through the cupboards and asked, “What is there to eat, Miss Kathy?” We don’t stock instant foods or ready-made meals in our house, so I shooed them outdoors, saying, “Go outside and play, and I’ll make something for you.”

A half-hour later they tromped back in, rosy-cheeked and ready to eat. The kitchen smelled wonderful, and a hot meal sat on the table. “Wow,” Devin exclaimed. “You made something out of nothing!” Laughing, we sat down, said grace, and dug in.

These days the kids are old enough to make dinner themselves. Lyle still refers to it as “pulling a Miss Kathy.” But isn’t that just like God? So often we think only of how He created the universe out of nothing—but there are so many ways in which He works this miracle. When we are depleted, He quickens us. When our souls are in desert places, He provides water and makes a highway in the wilderness. When we are unable to pray, He intercedes for us.

Praise God, who brought us out of a horrible pit, from the miry clay, and set our feet upon the rock. He hung the earth upon nothing, and set the world in our hearts. Praise Him for His unsearchable riches! He clothes us with righteousness. He calls us friends. Praise Christ, our Bread of Life, who came that we might have life, and have it more abundantly.

Father, when we are empty, You fill us up. Thank You for the countless ways You create something out of the nothing of our lives.

© 2010 Katherine A. Fuller

My Pain

2011-05-21T11:26:00.005-04:00

Carrying His own cross, he went out to the place of the skull. Here they crucified him. John 19:17,18b (NIV)

I awakened, stiff and sore from garden work. My head hurt. Then I thought I can’t hurt as badly as Jesus did when they pushed the crown of thorns onto his head. Conscious of my frailty, I asked forgiveness.

Later toward lunchtime, I walked a little stiff-legged from bending so much the day before. My knees and feet hurt with every step. I thought my knees don’t pain me as much as Christ’s knees holding up his body so he could breathe. My feet can’t hurt as much as His from being nailed to that harsh cross. Again I feel badly because I complain.

My hips and back gave me fits until I went to the exercise room and walked two miles to stretch my muscles. Carrying his cross Jesus walked almost two miles to Golgotha Hill where he was crucified. I feel humbled.

Vowing to change, I determined to ignore my wrists which pain me when I lift something heavy, especially when I work in the yard or garden. Even though I grabbed the Tylenol bottle and took a couple pills, I couldn’t forget that Jesus refused pain relievers when His wrists were nailed by heavy iron spikes that held His body weight. Jesus died, but was gloriously resurrected three days later.

Jesus accepted the sins of everyone who’s ever been born or will be born. What have I got to complain about?

Father, during this Easter season, let me not complain of my own pain, but let me recall what You endured because of Your love.

© 2011 E. Bonnie Ryan

Protection from Fleas

2011-05-13T13:34:00.003-04:00

Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation? Hebrews 1:14 NKJV

The cat hides in closets, cowers in corners, or hunkers down under chairs when the time comes for her monthly dose of medicine. Without it, she would be infested with ticks and fleas and risk being infected by the diseases they carry. No matter how much she tries, we always find her. When we do, we pick her up and rub a medicated gel on her neck. She hates that kind of attention, but she is our cat and we want her to be healthy.

I know how she feels. When life beats me up, I’ve made wrong decisions, or anxiety overtakes, I can imagine the Lord looking for me in the world’s corner closets. His love is steady and healing, yet I block His presence; pride, lack of trust, or sense of unworthiness sneak into my soul and make it difficult for me to stand before His throne. That is when He sends ministering spirits to find me or comes himself. His banner of love and care provides daily protection from the infestations of sin and keeps me from falling into the eternal abyss.

Like the cat, I hate it that the Lord has to keep helping me evade the world’s diseases. You would think that I’d get it right and be permanently resistant. The Lord knows that will never happen here. The world is the world. Fleas are fleas.

Praise him for his grace and mercy. All hail King Jesus, the one who loves and cares for us. Amen.

© 2010 V. Colclasure

A Mother's Joy

2011-05-06T00:14:00.007-04:00

I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth. III John 4 NAS

There was a season in my life when I prayed unceasingly for the “desires of my heart.” Those desires were to have children someday. After a grueling nine-year wait, and learning first to surrender my will to His, we had our first child—a daughter—followed by a son five years later.

Before they were born I spent a lot of time on my knees praying for their development and safe delivery. Little did I know, my prayer time had barely begun. During their infancy and early childhood, I prayed over every tear, sniffle and scraped knee. As they entered school I prayed for their safety, teachers and friends. Teenage years brought new and desperate prayers as I began to let go, experiencing what felt like my heart venturing out in the world without me there to protect it. All of these prayers were laced with praise for the One who loves them even more than I.

Now, years later, I find that I am still praying for my children, and always will be. The continued desire of my heart is for them to know, love and serve Jesus; to put aside the “old self” and allow God’s love to make them new creatures in Christ. I pray for them to experience the extreme joy and freedom that basking in His love gives; joy unspeakable, joy that cannot be dimmed by the world or circumstances—joy as they discover His will for their lives.

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for answering my prayers with two wonderful children. Thank You for the joy of communing with You daily, as I continue to lift them up in prayer. Amen.

Born to Die

2011-04-29T08:14:00.001-04:00

It was now about the sixth hour, and darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour, for the sun stopped shining. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” When he had said this, he breathed his last. Luke 23:44-46 (NIV)

When you hold a precious little bundle of joy in your arms for the first time many thoughts run through your mind. Will you be a good parent? What will this child grow up to be? What are God plans for my child? The list goes on. The last thing on your mind is your child being born to die.

I can only wonder when Mary held Jesus in her arms for the first time if she knew He would give His life for a fallen world. That His purpose was to die. Would she try to influence Jesus, change His mind or protect Him?
We know that Mary was obedient to carry Jesus in her womb for nine months. Yet we may know little about how He was raised. God's laws and traditions dictated Joseph and Mary's parenting. Whatever plans they had for Jesus were overridden by God the Father.

Jesus was born to die for a world lost in sin and hopelessness. From the first second of conception to His last minutes on the cross, Jesus' purpose was fulfilled when He returned to the waiting arms of His true father.

Thank you, God, for the gift of Your Son. As your child help me to fulfill Your purpose in my life just as Jesus fulfilled His.© 2011 Dawn M Sexton

Christmas to Easter

2011-04-24T11:44:00.002-04:00

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8 (NIV)

Christmas is a wonderful time of year! People seem happy looking for the perfect gift for that special someone. I love giving gifts and watching the faces of my love ones, even more my grandchildren ripping and tearing at their boxes full of goodies. Yes, Christmas is a wonderful time of the year!

On December 26th something is missing. Christmas day family’s celebrated singing carols and eating food with relatives and friends. I have that feeling of love and happiness all year, because Jesus is the reason for all seasons.

Jesus came as a small package and was the greatest gift. The angels brought the good news to shepherds in their fields. After they saw the baby they returned to the fields glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen.

From a baby in a manger to a man on the cross, Christmas to Easter, the Resurrection of Jesus Christ is the beginning of man’s complete reconciliation with God.

When I confessed with my mouth and believed in my heart that Jesus died for my sins and that God raised Him from the dead, I received the gift of eternal life. That is the greatest Christmas gift I ever received. Sharing the good news with my family and others who cross my path, is the greatest gift I can give to another. Priceless!

Father, Help me to recognize the full meaning of the journey from the manger to Christ’s resurrection.

©2011 Marcella Panowicz

Universal Donor

2011-04-23T09:58:00.002-04:00

This is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. Matthew 26:28 (NKJV)

Drip...drip...drip. I watched, fascinated, as blood siphoned from my arm through a plastic tube and emptied into a waiting bag. Precise markings identified donor, blood type, and date. Just qualifying to donate had been a chore. It didn’t matter that I had previously given. I answered the myriad questions designed to weed out unsuitable candidates.

I have never thought much about blood, but I was in a pensive mood as mine dripped away. Would it save someone? My mind wandered to Easter. What about Christ’s blood?

Most people have heard that blood types must match to be compatible for transfusions. One blood type, however, can be given to anyone. People with O negative blood are called universal donors.

That’s what Christ is for us. We cannot save ourselves or anyone else because sin taints our blood. Christ was tempted in every way, yet without sin. And that is the point. He did not sin. He is the universal donor of all the ages. He answered all of God’s requirements, and He is the only one qualified to save. Our Savior gave His own perfect blood, not contaminated by sin, and infused us with His righteousness in a supernatural transfusion.

My blood may save a life someday, but only Christ can save a soul. When we were dead in our sins, Christ died for us. He quickened our spirits, and gave us a chance to live again. Thank God for His gift of salvation! Precious blood now courses through our veins, calling us to live life more abundantly.

Jesus, You have given us the gift of life. We remember how much it cost with grateful and loving hearts.

© 2011 Katherine A. Fuller

Is Easter Unique?

2011-04-22T09:10:00.002-04:00

…and who through the Spirit of holiness was declared with power to be the Son of God by His resurrection from the dead: Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 1:4 (NIV)

I had an interesting conversation with an elderly Jewish woman. She shared with me that she celebrated Christmas with her children and grandchildren. “Why not?” she asked. “Decorated trees, a man in a red suit, presents for everyone and a poor baby in a barn. Nothing wrong with that.” Evidently, the meaning of Christmas and the true identity of the “poor baby in the barn” was not threatening enough to her to deny the joys of Christmas to her family.

It made sense I thought. It would be difficult to live in America no matter what religious beliefs one follows without giving in to some yuletide traditions during the much-celebrated Christmas season.

“What about Easter?” I asked.

“Oh no,” she said. “My family has nothing to do with that holiday. Christmas is secular. But, Easter is another story. No other religion in the world claims to have as its leader a god who came back to life. Without Easter there is no Christianity.”

My Jewish friend did not quite have a complete view of Christian theology, but she did have a good point. I must admit, I never thought about Easter in exactly that way. Jesus Christ gave His life as a sacrifice to atone for the sins of the world. He rose triumphantly making eternal life a reality for each person who believes and gives their life to Him.

She is correct! No other “religion” can make that claim.

My dear Lord and Savior, thank You for the twin blessings of Your death for us and Your resurrection for us.

© Christy Struben 2011

Forsaken

2011-04-21T07:17:00.011-04:00

Now when the sixth hour had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out .... “My God, My God, why have you Forsaken Me?” Mark 15:33-34 (NKJV)

One black, moonless night In Utah, I attended a social event in a hilltop house. Last to arrive and last to leave, I stepped out into a silhouette of Hades …. no street lights, no car lights, no stars.

Falling was not an attractive thought, so with arms stretched out, and feet edging along the side of the road, I avoided thinking about snakes, tarantulas, and wild animals by remembering the Lord’s promise of never leaving us. That assurance, and the knowledge that the car was nearby averted panic.

Looking back, I know my feelings were minimal in comparison with what Jesus felt while on the cross between noon and three p.m. The physical and metaphorical gloom of that ominous solar eclipse did not equal the isolation, abandonment and despair revealed by His words, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken Me?” Unable to sense the Father’s presence, Jesus headed into a trial of black nothingness. He had to have known that the Lord was there, but His experience of separation was more intense than that of anyone else who has ever lived. Christ is the only one ever forsaken by God. On earth, it is the other way around. People forsake God.

Because Christ endured the separation, took our punishment of being cast into outer darkness, we can claim the Lord’s promise of never leaving us. Resurrection frees us from darkness.

Lord, I praise you for loving us and for saving us from eternal darkness. Amen.

© V. Colclasure 2011

Easter No-See-Ums

2011-04-20T00:05:00.002-04:00

These things I have spoken to you, That in Me you may have peace, In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world. John 16:33 NASB

As we stood under elegant live oaks draped with Spanish Moss, morning dew dripped from the curly tendrils. A mist hung over the Ashley River as a slight breeze stirred its marshy aroma. The scene was ethereal as we gathered in hushed expectation for the Easter sunrise service to begin.

This was my first Easter after being saved and our first since moving to Charleston, South Carolina. Everything felt new and perfect. My heart was bursting with gratefulness, as I contemplated what Jesus had done for me. On a morning such as this, so many years before, He arose, defeating death and the power of sin over me! Life was definitely looking up, just like the sun barely breaking the horizon across the river. Ahhh, peacefulness.

Ouch! Suddenly, I felt a sharp sting on my ankle. As I bent to rub it, another smarted on my neck, and then in the part of my hair. My husband was also under attack. Looking around, we seemed to be the only ones distracted by the sharp bites of something that appeared to be invisible.

After the service, a couple walking beside us explained the mystery: tiny insects that Charlestonians referred to as “no-see-ums,” for obvious reasons. Locals knew to prepare beforehand by applying a certain repellant to prevent being bitten.

Satan is watchful for opportunities to steal our peace. Jesus said we will have tribulation; not maybe, but will. The cure? Pray and take courage in Him. He has overcome the world by providing forgiveness through His death and resurrection.

Praise God, Jesus arose! AMEN!

© Bonnie M. Evans 2011

2011-04-19T10:09:00.000-04:00

The Crack

…forgive your brother from the heart. Matthew 18:35b (NIV)

Imagine yourself living in a beautiful house. Upon looking out the front window, you see Christ walking up the flower-lined sidewalk to the front door. Your welcoming arms invite Him to come in. As the two of you walk down the center hallway, He sees the beautifully decorated rooms. At the end of the hall is a closed door. He asks to see the room. Reluctantly you open the door and enter a cluttered, trashed room. Christ sees the trap door in the floor and asks to go down into the basement. You hesitate.

A huge crack runs from the base to the top of the foundation. Christ reveals a strong wooden cross extending the length of the house with the cross beam supporting the structure above. The wooden beam also holds together the cracked foundation.

This vision captured my heart. It brought me to an understanding of Christ holding my foundation together and fully forgiving me from the cross. A month after this exercise at a seminar, I visited my daughter’s church. As I am walked through the halls, the same vision of the cross in my perpetrator’s basement was very clear to me. I needed to forgive someone for a past sin of 40 years ago. Christ died on the cross for him, too. Later that morning the sermon dealt with forgiving your brother seventy times seven from Matthew 18:21-35.

Only the cross could have given me the peace and freedom that I now live. My foundation is secure because Christ died on the cross for the forgiveness of sin.

Dear Lord, help us to forgive others and live the lives You intended for us.

The Easter Pageant

2011-04-18T22:18:00.004-04:00

Dear Friends...I felt I had to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints. Jude 1:3b (NIV)

Years ago, a local church presented an Easter pageant. My husband and I attended, along with my daughter and son-in-law and my mother. Mother sat on the end seat next to the aisle. When Pontius Pilate washed his hands and the crowds cried out "Crucify him!" there wasn't a dry eye in the auditorium.

Mother was completely engrossed in the play as the soldiers marched a beaten and bloodied Jesus down the aisle and up to Golgotha's hill. As the last solider passed, Mother reached out and smacked his shoulder with her umbrella. The soldier turned around, surprised. She realized then what she had done and, embarrassed, she ducked her head, shielding her face with her hand.

The suffering of Jesus was very real to Mother, and she had forgotten momentarily that this was a play. She was defending Jesus, her Savior.

As Christians, we should be ready to defend our faith in Jesus too. He willingly sacrificed His life on the cross. What He did for us deserves defending.

Lord Jesus, may the Easter memorial remind us of Your sacrifice for us. We thank You for the joy of Your resurrection and the one to come for all mankind. Amen.

© 2011 E. Bonnie Ryan

Yes, Lord

2011-04-17T17:52:00.002-04:00

Ye shall find a colt ..... bring him. And if anyone say unto you, Why do ye this? Say ye, The Lord hath need of him. (Mark 11:2b-3a ASV)

On Palm Sunday the Lord sent his disciples to find a donkey. If questioned, they were to reply, “The Lord has need of him.” There are two odd aspects to Jesus’ request.

First, why would the Lord need anything? He once directed a fish to deliver a coin to Peter. He could have had an animal walk in from the hills. Second, would I hand over my car to strangers just because somebody said, “The Lord needs it?” Why did these people hand over their animal?

Answering the second question is fairly easy. The colt’s owners probably knew about Jesus and recognized the disciples. Their trust in Jesus allowed them to place the colt into the care of the Lord’s followers.

Actually, this answer solves the first question. The Lord didn’t need to borrow the colt, but He did need to give believers opportunity to be a part of the kingdom, to demonstrate trust in Him. The Lord could send ravens with food to every hungry person. Instead He asks us to give it. He helps hurting people, but also provides parents, friends, or fellow believers to advise, encourage or help them. Just as He appeared to Paul, the Lord could appear to each individual, but He asks us to teach and baptize others.

I wonder about those nameless owners of the colt. Did they stand on the wayside and joyfully wave palm branches? How grateful they must have been to have had a special part in the joy and acclamation of Palm Sunday!

May I also have the opportunity and joy of saying “yes” to You. Amen.

© 2011 V. Colclasure

Broken

2011-04-16T00:01:00.001-04:00

Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. Matthew 26:26b (KJV)

“Here you go,” my husband murmured, passing the communion tray to me. I thanked him and took the nestled cups; juice in the top, cracker in the bottom. The tray continued its journey down the row, and I settled back to remember our Lord’s sacrifice. I closed my eyes. The piano’s melody washed over me, and my heart welled in praise for redemption. Who was I that God had been mindful of me?

Prepared to take the elements, I pulled the cups apart to get the cracker. It fell into my hand in several tiny pieces. Annoyed that someone had crushed it, my sense of God’s presence followed the communion plate down the row. But I could not escape His voice.

“Do you not see that My body was broken?”

Tears stung my eyes as I looked at the little broken wafer in my hand. The fragments were no longer an annoyance; they represented the cruel death of my Savior. Being broken was neither convenient nor pretty. It disfigured and demanded pain—pain that would have been ours had He not taken it upon Himself.

Nibbling thankfully on each miniscule piece, I settled back to remember our Lord’s sacrifice. I closed my eyes. The piano’s melody washed over me, and my heart welled in praise for redemption. Who was I that God had been mindful of me?

Father, we cannot fathom the pain You must have felt as Your Son was broken for our sin. We are grateful that You loved us so. Open our eyes daily to see Your love, and help us to walk in that love as Your dear children.

© 2010 Katherine A. Fuller

Healing Treasures

2011-04-08T19:36:00.015-04:00

“If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for Me will find it.” Matthew 16:24b-25 (NIV).

In recent months, the Lord has brought to my attention some poor choices in my life. Some TV shows may not be the best options for me as a Christian. At the end of a long, stressful work day exhaustion often prompts excuses: I want to relax and enjoy watching how they solve the mystery. I really need this treat because it comforts me or, I am lonely and deserve this pizza.

Many people in the Christian community use these same excuses, so they will find common ground with mine. But what does God think?

We get a clue when Jesus says that those who come after Him must deny themselves. Learning to deny myself will give me courage to obey God’s call. Deciding to ignore the TV will give me more time to read, write and pursue neglected sewing or craft projects. If I choose to eat good food, my health will improve. Better choices in my life will open doors of healing from the Lord and wonderful treasures from His hand. And out of death will come life.

Oh, Lord, I want to accept from Your healing hand the beautiful treasures You have for me in this life. Strengthen me to deny myself and take up Your cross as I choose to follow You. In Jesus Name, Amen.

© 2011 Diane E. Hussey

The Joke's on You!

2011-04-01T07:04:00.004-04:00

And you...hath he quickened together with him...blotting out the handwriting...that was against us...and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; and having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them....
Colossians 2:13 15 (KJV)

Well, Devil, I guess now’s as good a time as any to let you in on the little joke. I don’t know how you missed it for so long, but we’ll chalk it up to pride.

So here’s the thing. Remember tempting Adam and Eve in the garden? I suppose you had the upper hand then, huh? But there were hints, even way back then. First a riddle, that He would crush your head and you would bruise His heel. Then a clue: God clothed Adam and Eve with animal skins.

In hindsight, do you see it? You must not, because day in and day out for the last six thousand years or so, you have tried to make us fall short before God. But you know what? It’s a funny thing about those animal skins. They required bloodshed. You know what else? Those skins covered their nakedness.

Okay, okay, I’ll spell it out. Sure, you got Adam and Eve to sin—plus a bonus! All their descendants inherited sinful natures. I agree: it looks bleak if you stop there, but fast-forward to a little place called “Calvary.” Christ shed His own blood (infinitely more effectual than that of animals’) to pay for our sin. I guess He gave us His own skin, too, because He calls us His Body.

Oh, I almost forgot. The “bonus?” Our sinful state qualifies us to receive grace and inherit His righteous nature. Good one, huh?

Dear Jesus, help us to share the joke with everyone we know!

© 2011 Katherine A. Fuller

His Table

2011-03-25T05:50:00.003-04:00

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. Psalm 23:5a (NKJV)

My husband dislikes frothy food: soufflé, mousse, whipped cream, or meringue. He likes foods that you need to chew before swallowing. Good bread with peanut butter and jelly is an everyday treat.

I feel the same about literature, especially Christian fiction with the sweet, fluffy theme of: “I had a problem. I prayed. The Lord fixed it. Now I rejoice — until whacked by another problem.” Even though true, that set presentation is cotton candy in fairy land.

Reality-based literature like Pilgrim’s Progress written by an incarcerated John Bunyan better explains the perils of Christian living. Lloyd C. Douglas’ Magnificent Obsession turns me away from pursuits of self towards helping others. The same is true for Scrooge and other Dickens’ characters.

These books demonstrate knowledge of Jesus’ teaching “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4). True-to-life dilemmas presented by talented authors are like buffets beckoning diners to the Lord’s everlasting table, the Bible. They draw readers close to that one central table where life is real, not airy or foamy. They show the way to the one Great Author.

That kind of literature stimulates the hungry to come to a banqueting table filled with platters of biblical meat and dessert – doctrine and praise. When I wonder how to avoid spiritual enemies and get to the solid goodness of His will, the Lord calls me to the table which He has prepared – the Bible. He knows I need to skip the froth and eat the bread.

Lord, thank you for setting a table before me where I can come to know you.

© 2011 V. Colclasure

Human Dilemma

2011-03-18T19:20:00.001-04:00

Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children. Matthew 27:25 (KJV)

As a little girl, I often visited a candy store in town. Though I rarely had money, barrels of penny candy, gum, and chocolates beckoned. Looking at the sweets—surely a national pastime—my mouth watered.

Temptation is a powerful thing. One day my hand found its way into a barrel. I grabbed a piece of candy and left in a rush. A couple of blocks flew by before I felt safe enough to unwrap my treat. The sugar melted in my mouth, and I was invincible, having eluded capture.

I was caught that night, however—by conviction. I lay in bed, crying, until my mother came to see what was wrong. Between sobs the story came out.

The dilemma of man had found me. On one hand, we rely on human provision, thinking we can save ourselves. But through all our arrogance, still we cry out for supernatural deliverance. God gave the answer: His Son. Christ was tempted as we are, yet without sin. He experienced the frailty, desires, and challenges that face us every day.

My mother took me back to the store the next morning, where I confessed to the owner and paid for my candy. The weight of sin lifted as he forgave me.

We serve an ironic, wonderful God. Standing before the crowds, Pilate told them to choose: Barabbas or Jesus. They chose Barabbas—human strength. But then they immediately cried out for Jesus’ blood to be upon them and their children—divine provision. Christ answered their cry, which still wells up from the depths of every human heart today.

Thank You, Jesus, for answering the innermost cry of our hearts with Your forgiveness.

© 2011 Katherine A. Fuller

Bleeding Red

2011-03-11T00:12:00.003-05:00

He took the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.” Luke 22:20 NASB

My nursing career introduces me to people in all walks of life. I have had the privilege of caring for nuns and rabbis, politicians, TV personalities, a football Hall of Famer, a gypsy king, a legendary burlesque star and an atheist here and there. My work brings me to the bedside of some very wealthy and the homeless poor; those with brilliant minds and those brain damaged by disease, injury, or drugs. There are patients of every skin color and those who are albino with no pigment at all.

Observing the uniqueness of people woven together with the paths they choose; many times I feel worlds apart from them. I wonder who of these may be squeezing through the narrow gate, rubbing shoulders with me on the way to Heaven; and who will be taking the wider path, that dead-ends in hell. As different as we are, two undeniable facts link all mankind together. One I have witnessed and one I know to be true. We all bleed red and we all need a Savior.

Jesus, our Savior, came to earth in human form like us, only without sin. His blood was red as it spilled, painting our way to Heaven. He reached out His arms on the cross, extending grace to each one of us. Without His grace we remain hopelessly worlds apart. He rose into Heaven, defeating death for our sake, and He is there now preparing a place for all of us who will believe.

Thank You, Jesus, for extending grace to us through Your blood and resurrection. Amen

© 2011 Bonnie M. Evans

Grapes of Plenty

2011-03-04T10:18:00.002-05:00

And they came unto the brook of Eshcol, and cut down from thence a branch with one cluster of grapes, and they bare it between two upon a staff. Numbers 13:23 (KJV)

One afternoon, while washing grapes, I thought about the Bible story where God told Moses to send scouts into Canaan to see what types of people lived there. They returned carrying some of the fruits of the land. Moses was surprised to see huge grapes needing two men to carry them. My grapes were puny compared to the ones in that story. It would seem like heaven to buy grapes as big as oranges, carrots as large as bowling pins, and apples as large as saucers.

The grapes of Canaan were evidence of fertile land promised to the Israelites by God. But, it would only come by believing God's promise. The spies liked the land, liked its fruit, and even held it in their hands; but they were afraid of the giants who dwelled there.

Joshua and Caleb had a different spirit; one that trused God's Work and recognized His provision.

As I finished washing my small grapes, I praised God for His promises to me, and asked for continued faith and strength to walk in them daily.

Lord, help us to keep our minds stayed on Your sweet promise for the brightest of futures with You as our reigning King. We trust You to take care of all our needs as we walk in Your provision. Amen

(c) 2011 E. Bonnie Ryan

Winter Prayers

2011-02-25T08:03:00.002-05:00

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding Proverbs 3:5 (ESV)

One evening, several years ago, my end-of-the-day prayer was, “Lord, I’m so tired.” His quick answer was, “I’ll take care of it.” Too tired to understand I fell asleep. The next morning, the land was covered with deep, wet snow. Schools and businesses closed, and I was grateful for a no-stress day of recovery.

That memory helps me through another kind of exhaustion. I pray for friends, friends of family, and family members who do not have jobs. There is no relief. My head aches, and muscles ache right down to the center of my bones. The days, years, go by and there are few answers, especially for the ones I love the most.

“Does the Lord hear?” ..... “Yes.”
“Is He going to answer?” ........ “Yes.”
“When?” ..................................... No answer.

Maybe there’s something the matter with my prayers, my meditations, my Bible readings. Maybe there are no answers because I’m not doing it right. Did I not pray long enough? Is there something within me that keeps prayer from being answered? Of course that’s true. Imperfect people, especially me, always fall short. Can friends help? Yes, but some of them are the ones I’m praying for. Family? Sometimes we talk, but that’s momentary relief. Church? People there have overwhelming concerns with entry-level Christians.

I keep picking the burden up. I can’t seem to stop worrying. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Lean not on your own understanding.” I know the Lord is. I know He answers prayers. I know His love. Time to pray again, but “Lord, I’m so tired.”

“Trust. Lean not on your own understanding.” He’ll take care of it.

Prayer: Help Lord. Amen.

© V. Colclasure 2011

The Answer is God

2011-02-18T08:48:00.001-05:00

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”

Jeremiah 29:13(NIV)

Waiting three years for an answer to a prayer has given me new insight into God’s ways. In God’s perfect timing the answer will be given. While waiting, I have learned not to look for God’s specific answer, but I have learned to understand some things about God and His Ways. He truly is the answer to prayer. It has been a wonderful adventure.

Learning that people do not understand what I am going through is now okay. God knowing what I am going through is far more important. His peace surrounds me, and it is not a peace that the world can supply. God cares enough to make me what I ought to be, and He will establish and ground me and will make me steadfast. He can use a thought or His Word to correct something that needs changing in many areas of my life.

Whether I am in the valley or on the heights of this adventure, God is with me. I call on Him at any moment, in any thought, or in any situation. “The Sovereign Lord is my strength; He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, He enables me to go on the heights.” Habakkuk 3:19 (NIV)

The first year of my waiting was a sad one, and yet I am so happy now that I did not miss that time in my life by denying or ignoring the revelation that God opened to me. The blessing is in the journey. Missing God would have been a huge loss.

Thank You, Lord, that Your ways are not our ways. Amen

Know My Heart

2011-02-11T05:53:00.002-05:00

Oh Lord, You have searched me and You know me…You perceive my thoughts from afar…For You created my inmost being…Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139:1, 2b, 13a, 23-24. (NIV)

The Psalmist tells us that because God created us He knows our thoughts before we think them and our words before we speak them. Even though He knows everything about us, including all the ugly sinful things, He still loves us unconditionally. But He loves us too much to leave us as we are. God places us in challenging situations for His purposes. He wants us to trust Him and to draw closer to Him. His purpose is to change us to become more like His Son. God has used the time I take care of my grandchildren to reveal my self-centered, lack of compassion. Meeting the ongoing needs of small children forced me to pray daily for the fruit of the spirit (love, patience, kindness and self-control) that He knew would change my life.

We love our families and friends, and we enjoy close relationships with them, but no human connections can compare with the unique relationship we have with our heavenly Father. Throughout life, we learn that some people can be trusted—but others cannot. The special people in our lives show their love for us in limited ways, but God is the only One who is completely trustworthy and who will always love us no matter what.

I love you, Lord, and I praise Your name for loving me just as I am. I thank You for patiently disciplining me so I can become more like Jesus. Amen

© 2011 Diane E. Hussey

Mourning Rainbows

2011-02-04T00:28:00.004-05:00

But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, that shines brighter and brighter until the full of day. Proverbs 4:18 NAS

My grief was especially real and intense as I knelt in prayer facing the early morning sun. Instead of getting better as the weeks went by, it seemed to be getting worse. It had been six long months since my grandmother had gone home to be with Jesus. Today would have been her ninety-fourth birthday. Once again I had gone to the phone to call her and realized she would not be there. Although I rejoiced that she was in heaven, my heart still ached here on earth. My best friend was gone.

“Dear Jesus,” I wept. “You promised to be close to those who mourn. I need to feel You close to me today.” As I continued praying I felt the warmth on my face and saw a red glow inside my eyelids as the sun climbed in the sky. Time was passing. I had to get on with my day.

As I pushed to my feet and looked away from the window, there on the wall in front of me was a myriad of rainbows. Turning back to find the source, I saw the prism angel ornament that was my grandmother’s. Mother had recently given it to me. As I stood transfixed, the rainbows grew even more brilliant as the sun inched higher.

I reflected on the quality of God’s light and how it had shown through my grandmother. His light was not diminished by death. It shone even brighter and would continue to shine until the “full of day” when He returns, banishing all darkness.

Thank You for allowing the light of Your righteousness to touch me through my grandmother.

©2010 Bonnie M. Evans

Hack in the Beanstalk (aka The Wheat and the Tares)

2011-01-28T09:36:00.001-05:00

The farmhands asked, “Should we weed out the thistles?” He said, “No, if you weed the thistles, you’ll pull up the wheat, too.” Matthew 13:28b-29 (The Message)

One summer, I discovered weed vines mixed in with my green beans. We had covered our rows to protect the plants from pests, so the vines were in full force by the time the cover was removed.

I sighed and started to pull at the creepers, gingerly attempting to untangle their strangle hold on the beans. The longer I worked, weeding them out took precedence over caring for the plants. My reasoning was simple: they would choke, limiting production anyway; why not just yank the vines and let the beans recover?

Determinedly I labored, confident that all would be well—until I got to the end of the row and looked back at the swath of destruction that had been the beans. I swallowed. The plants lay in a long, tattered, beaten-down mess. I had planted, watered, covered, and then destroyed them. Poor things; maybe they would spring back soon.

But they didn’t—not really, anyway. Some produced fruit, but not nearly as much as they should have. The whole event made me think about people. How many times had I damaged others in my impatience for them to throw off the world’s entanglements, and to grow and produce fruit? So simple!

Thank God that He has a different gardening method. He deals with us gently, knowing our weak (beanstalk) frame. His wisdom is pure, peaceable, and gentle; full of mercy and good fruits. How great is that harvest!

Father, You have planted, watered, and nurtured us. Help us to be gentle with others who are in the growing process, too.

© 2010 Katherine A. Fuller

Cain Killed Abel - Right?

2011-01-20T20:56:00.003-05:00

Why are you angry, and why has your face fallen? If you do well, will you not be accepted? Genesis 4:6 (ESV)

I always have a hard time remembering who did what in this Bible story. Did Cain kill Abel or vice-versa? The mnemonic “Killer Cain killed Abel, and Able Abel was able to please God” helps sometimes. In a recent reading of the story, I discovered why I mix them up.

Confusion starts with the question of God’s favoring Abel’s offering over and above that of Cain’s. Wasn’t the Lord being unfair? The answer is “no” because God was looking forward to the day of Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice on the cross. Abel’s act symbolized the story of mankind. Cain’s did not.

But even though the Lord’s advice goes to Cain, Abel himself was not always a perfect being. The Bible story focuses only on one instance. This advice could have been given to Abel at another time for another reason. We all sin and fall short. The problem is an assumption that this one story gives an all-encompassing judgment towards Cain.

Logically, in another time, for another reason, it could have been Abel who killed Cain. That’s why it doesn’t really matter if I confuse the names. Sin crouches at everyone’s door, every minute of every day. Bottom line, there is only one way to do well – confess with our lips and believe in our hearts that Jesus is Lord. Submitting to His will and His lordship is the way to rule over sin.

Prayer: Gracious Father, Keep us from reacting to our own emotions of anger. Keep warning us to come to You and let You triumph over the sin crouching at our door. Amen.

© V. Colclasure 2011

This Little Light of Mine I'm Gonna Let It Shine

2011-01-13T18:06:00.004-05:00

Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying ‘I am the Light of the World. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.’ (John 8:12 NKJV)

During the Christmas season, my neighborhood’s homes were decorated elaborately from roof top, outlining the house and windows, to the yards. The shrubberies were totally covered with lights. Trees, snowmen and lighted reindeer stood brightly in their front yards. For anyone driving past these homes, it was not night.

The lights are out. It is dark now.

Recently, I read an article about Marine Colonel John Glenn. In 1962, he orbited the earth three times in less than five hours. Intricate electronic equipment at a Tracking Station in San Diego monitored his flight and even showed his heart beat with blips on our television screens.

As the space capsule spun hundreds of miles above Perth, Australia, the people of that city turned on their lights. Col. Glenn’s voice reported from space, “I can see the lights of Perth. Thank everyone for turning on the lights.”

Do our daily lives still reveal Jesus is the Light of our world? Would He look down and say, “Thank you, your light of love for Me shines all year long?” Or is it dark now? Jesus said,“You are the light of the world. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”(Matt.5:14, 16)

Prayer: Thank you, Lord, You are the reason we celebrate. I pray our Christmas lights will spark in someone’s heart that You are Lord. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.©2011 Lois Gosley

In the Bag

2011-01-07T07:59:00.003-05:00

"My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth." Psalm 121:2 (NAS)

Shortly after my husband and I moved to Charleston, South Carolina, I took a job in a gift shop in the historic Indigo Market. The shop had two levels; the office and telephone were on the second.

On my first day working solo, shortly after opening, a young man came in and quickly walked to the counter where I was stood. He stared in my face as he shoved his hand, hidden in a brown bag across the counter. I knew this was a robbery. There had been several in the area recently.

Silently, I called out to Jesus. Immediately the phone upstairs began ringing. Without thinking I bolted upstairs, yelling behind me, "I'll be right back!" My boss was checking on me.

"Is everything okay?" she said when I answered. I quickly relayed the situation to her while the fellow stood waiting downstairs. She hung up and dialed the owner of the jewelry shop next door, a large burly man, who kept a gun behind the counter. It seemed only seconds before he was there, escorting the would-be robber out the door to meet the police.

Standing in the shop with shaking knees, it was then that I realized I had not been working alone at all. I thanked God for sending help just in the nick of time!

Dear Lord, thank You that we never have to feel alone again. You are always watching over us and hear our every prayer. You know what our day will hold before we open our eyes each morning. What a comfort to know that You are with us. Amen.

(c) Bonnie M. Evans

Gloriously Forever After

2011-01-01T01:33:00.003-05:00

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.
John 1:1, 14a (KJV)

Once upon a time, long before time, and long before angels, the Father had a plan. Every detail was calculated—simple in concept, profound in magnitude. His Son willingly executed it, and the Spirit bears witness to the plan’s recipients.

He planned us. Not to interfere with our lives or to force our wills to fit His own, but He knew us; knew the choices that we would make, the thoughts we would think. He even knew the number of hairs that would be on our heads, the number of tears we would cry, and every joy and pain that would enter our lives. He knew these things before the world began, and created a provision so astounding that it will take eternity to reveal the overwhelming depth of His love, mercy, and grace.

Our lives are in the mind of the Uncreated One, Elohim, the Great I AM, the One Who is from Everlasting to Everlasting. And He loves us. So frail, so weak—we display the power of His plan. He has given us a choice to become the Bride of Christ, a gift from the Almighty Father to His Son in a union sealed by His Holy Spirit. All because the Word became flesh—one of us. He let us see who He is. And we can be His Bride! Think of it!

Father, thank You for Your plan of redemption and for the price paid to redeem us. Adorn us with righteousness as we wait in breathless anticipation of meeting Your Son—our Bridegroom—face to face, and living gloriously forever after.

© 2010 Katherine A. Fuller

525,600 Minutes

2010-12-31T08:49:00.003-05:00

If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised throught Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 4:11 (NIV)

New Years Eve is a traditional time to look back on the past year and forward to the year ahead. In doing so, it helps me to gain spiritual perspective by asking myself a few questions.

First, "How has the Lord moved in my life this year?" It is humbling to ponder how my King has dealt with me. Until I take time to reflect, I often fail to notice the sweet, quiet, yet powerful way He orders my life and answers my prayers. Most recently, two people whom I love put their homes up for sale. We prayed for quick results. In a stagnant real estate market, both properties sold in less than two weeks. Thank you Lord.

My second question is, "What was accomplished for my Lord this year?" I always fall short when attempting to answer honestly. Success only comes when I draw close to His will just as surely as prayer before writing yields the best results.

My heart asks, "How can I better serve the Lord in the New Year?" Perhaps I will work more diligently to get the book published that the Lord urged me to write. Perhaps I will yield more completely in my prayer life.

There are approximately 525,600 minutes in a year. The most important question is, "How many of those precious moments that God has alloted me will be used to serve Him?"

Dear Lord, thank You for all that You have done for me in the past year. Help me to serve you every moment that I can in the coming year.

Christy Struben (c) 2010

Jehovah's Christmas Gift

2010-12-30T09:17:00.003-05:00

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NIV)

We celebrate the birth of a child
Who was born to a mother so meek and so mild.
She bent to the will of the Father that day
and praised His Name as she knelt to pray.

God gave us a gift so precious and good,
Who stood in the place where no other man could.
A place of ridicule and sorrow,
so mankind could have a better tomorrow.

His gift so long ago that day
was the life of His Son Who showed us the way
to live in harmony, truth and love,
and guide us to heavenly places above.

No gift that we could give in return
could help us eternal life to earn.
No blood that we shed, no oath we declare
will assure us of a heavenly place up there.

The only gift acceptable above
is the act of repentance and a heart full of love.
So, why can't we all, this holiday season,
accept in our hearts that Christ is the reason?

We may yet live in peace with each other
and call all men "friend" and accept them as "brother."
So let us give thanks to Jehovah above
for the Gift of His Son and His unfailing love.

Father, may all mankind praise and thank You for the Gift of Your Son, Jesus. Amen.

(c) 2010
E. Bonnie

Perfect Christmas Picture

2010-12-29T10:25:00.000-05:00

Where is he that is born the King of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the east, and have come to worship. Matthew 2:2 (KJV)

I have spent the last several weeks trying to capture that perfect picture of what Christmas is all about. I went to the Festival of Trees with my family and took pictures of the trees all decked out. I even snapped shot of the decorations on the trees. Along with those pictures are many scenes around town. But that perfect photo of the sentiment I was seeking eludes me.

Then it hits me. I am going about this the wrong way. The perfect picture of Christmas cannot be taken. Unless, I am able to go back into time of the day Jesus was born. I cannot get the perfect Christmas picture.

Like the wise men who sought the child in the manger I needed to look in the Bible and read the Gospels to even get a small glimpse of the picture I sought. Upon reading the story of Jesus' birth, I start to see the true meaning of this season. How much I would have loved to been there to witness Christmas in the making, but I can still see the results today in the glowing face of a new believer.

The perfect picture of Christmas is Jesus Christ Himself. All other activities and decorations dim to the light of our Savior.

Thank You God for giving each of us your Son. Help me to always see the pictures that brings me back to the real meaning of Christmas.

© 2010 Dawn M Sexton

More to Come

2010-12-28T08:52:00.002-05:00

There shall come forth a Rod from the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots. Isaiah 11:1 (NKJV)

As we headed down the road, the driver of an oncoming car flashed his headlights several times. We didn’t know what the warning was, but knew we needed to be careful about something up ahead. At the top of an icy, slippery curve, we saw a car turned sideways, hanging over the guardrail. Its unharmed driver stood next to the car, when providentially, a patrol car came from the other direction. Help had arrived.

“That’s just like Christmas,” I thought. It’s a flashy warning that Jesus has come into a world that needs His help. Glittering ornaments on Christmas trees, greenery and red bows attached to street lights, twinkling lights outlining rooftops—they all declare that the day of celebration is near.

At Christmas, we often think of Jesus the child and baby, but the Lord promised that He would send a Savior wearing belts of righteousness and faithfulness, that we would have wisdom, understanding, counsel, might and knowledge. Isaiah’s prophecy is a two-for-one. We remember Christmas while looking forward to the rest of the prophecy, the time when the Lord’s presence ensures that everywhere we look wolves will dwell with lambs, cows and bears will graze together, and nursing children will play beside the cobra’s nest because enemies will no longer be enemies.

We celebrate Christmas joyously because it reminds us there’s more to come. God who faithfully keeps his promises is still leading us forward to Christ’s second coming.

Prayer: Thank you Lord, for loving us so much that you sent a Savior to show us the way.

© V. Colclasure

Dad's Presence

2010-12-27T13:04:00.001-05:00

Your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. Matthew 6:8b (NIV)

When I was about eight years old, my father was in a terrible accident. He and a few of his co-workers were involved in an explosion, in which one man died. Dad was in very serious condition. It happened right before Christmas, so my mom, brother and I were sad that Dad would be in the hospital instead of home with us.

We were also short of money that year, so Mom bought used bicycles for my brother and me. She painted mine green, and my brother’s red.

On Christmas Day we had a wonderful surprise; Dad was able to come home for a few hours. He was in a wheelchair, but he was with us. And my brother and I were thrilled with our “new” bikes. I rode mine until I left home for college.

Because our family was facing a difficult time, my mother knew it would be important to make this a special Christmas. She went out of her way to show how much she loved us. The most wonderful gift of all was Dad’s presence.

God also understands what we need before we ask Him. He provides simple blessings every day: food, shelter, clothes and bikes for Christmas. But He adds special blessings, too. He blessed our family by sparing my father’s life and making it possible for him to join us for Christmas. Best of all, He blessed us with a Savior, whose birth we celebrate on Christmas Day.

Dear Father, thank You for knowing what we need before we ask, and for loving us so much that You sent Your Son as Your gift to us. In Jesus Name, Amen.

© 2010 Diane E. Hussey

Gift of Comfort

2010-12-26T17:14:00.004-05:00

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in our troubles so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. 2 Cor 1:3 (NIV)

A few days after Christmas, I found a cheerfully wrapped package on my porch. It contained a journal. The night before, I had used up the last page of mine. Wondering who had such perfect timing, I hurried to read the card. It was from Barbara, a woman in my Bible study group. On the card, she wrote, “This is a gift of thanks for supporting me over the past year. If it had not been for you, I may not have come back.”

A year earlier, Barbara had joined our Bible study. Barbara was gregarious and enjoyed the group. I am very talkative, but had been consciously working to listen instead of talking. One morning I noticed Barbara had not spoken. “Is something wrong?” I asked. She fought back tears and shook her head. “Call me,” she whispered. When I called, she told me she had been diagnosed with cancer. Later she was able to share her sorrow with our group and we found ways to support her as she was treated and healed.

I am usually centered on sharing my thoughts and my feelings, but that day I was sensitive to the needs of another. As a result, I was able to reach out to someone else with the comfort that I myself had received from the group.

Comforting Father, thank You for using me to comfort Barbara with Your Love. Amen.

©2010 Stephanie Snead

Lullaby

2010-12-25T00:12:00.003-05:00

Praise the Lord from the heavens, praise him in the heights above. Praise him, all his angels, praise him, all his heavenly hosts. Psalm 148: 1-2 (NIV)

It was the night before Jesus and all through the earth,
Not a soul could be heard praying, for our Savior's birth.
But God in His wisdom was not surprised.
By a soft voice singing, a sweet lullaby.

As the singer was singing, hosts of Angels joined in.
Until it crescendo'ed into—a beautiful hymn.
What a wonderful song for this sweet little babe.
Who had such a mission, this world He would save.

So won't you lift up your eyes, stand up and sing.
With your mouth full of praise, raise your hands to the king.
"Thank You dear Jesus, for the Love You have shown.
Never again will we be alone."

Lord, You are no longer a babe in a manger, You are a King on the throne. You are the ruler of heaven and earth. I celebrate Your birth with reverence and praise.

© Marcella Panowicz 12-11-98

Complete the Joy

2010-12-24T00:06:00.005-05:00

The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people.” Luke 2:10 (NIV)

Many of us seek joy and think we have to “make it happen.” God’s joy is given. We are to receive it and live it. After one accepts the life God offers, life overflows with joy.

I received word that a dear friend passed away. Glenna loved others in all stations of life. She had a very large family with many issues, an ill husband, many trials, yet she had great joy. People, and playing the organ for worship, increased her joy.

Glenna died following a sudden illness. She had previously written her desire for her memorial service to be a celebration when she passed away. Her family followed her instructions. Upon entering the chapel for the service, one could see filled brown sandwich bags placed on the pews. Those who knew Glenna personally had to chuckle. The bags contained a water bottle, pack of nose tissues, and a baggie of sweet treats. No one ever left Glenna’s home without a gift. The tone was set to celebrate her passing into the presence of God.

Joy bubbled from her in all kinds of situations. In her presence, everyone laughed. She chose life with God, loved Him, His creation, His people, and held fast to Him in trials. The Lord was her life. I cannot help but think Glenna is making music right now in His presence. I will greatly miss her on earth, but now her joy is complete.

Dear Lord, Help us not to complicate life and miss the joy You brought to earth long ago. Amen

Cozy Christmas

2010-12-23T06:08:00.001-05:00

So then death worketh in us, but life in you. 2 Corinthians 4:12 (KJV)

Christmas is my favorite time of year. In fact, my housemates and I threw a “Christmas in July” birthday party for one of the girls in our dorm. My husband, on the other hand, hated Christmas when I met him. Bad memories kept him from enjoying the season. He went so far as to force a roommate to take down his little Christmas tree, threatening to throw it in the street.

You can imagine my chagrin when our first Christmas together rolled around and we didn’t celebrate. I longed to snuggle on the couch and watch the lights on the tree with a hot cup of tea and holiday music in the background. But “Cozy Christmas” was not to be—that year, at least. Resigned, I let it go. We didn’t have a Christmas tree for three years.

Since that time, my husband has changed dramatically. He now loves Christmas as much as I do. He lays out ornaments, then patiently holds miles of lights while I weave them through the branches.

Why this change, I wondered? I tried not to be pushy about wanting to celebrate, but I couldn’t help missing it. Then God revealed to me that through the sacrifice of something I loved came the healing that my husband needed. It was a lesson I’ll never forget. We cannot force people to change; but when we die to ourselves, God is able to bring life to others. And isn’t that what Christmas is really all about?

Thank You, Lord, for Your gentleness in our struggles and heartaches. May we glorify You this Christmas with hearts of praise for Your Son—born to die so that we could live.

© 2010 Katherine A. Fuller

Check Out Mission

2010-12-22T13:41:00.006-05:00

The fool has said in his heart, "There is no God" Psalm 14:1a (KJV)

While in the check-out line at the grocery store, the customer in front of me said, "Merry Christmas" to the cashier.

When it was my turn, the cashier said to me, "Why do people wish me a Merry Christmas? What makes her think I care? Why do people assume I'm Christian?"

"Are you Jewish?" I asked, surprised at her unexpected question.

"No. I'm not Jewish," she answered.

"What is your faith?" I said.

"I've no faith in anything," She said while scanning my items.

"Do you know where you'll go when you die?"

She became irritated as she abruptly said, "I'm not into all that."

I said, "I believe in Jesus Christ, that He died for my sins, and because of His sacrifice, I will go to heaven."

"That sounds ridiculous. What do you think about reincarnation?" she challenged.

"I believe we are all going somewhere. You just have to decide where you want to go." With that reply I left with my groceries.

I prayed silently for her. I wish we had more time to talk.

Prayer: Dear Lord, I pray your children are prepared to share the hope that is within You; some sow, others water, but You reap the harvest. I pray the lost will be saved. Amen.

© Lois Gosley 2010

Genealogy and Christmas

2010-12-21T10:14:00.006-05:00

The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, the Son of Abraham. Matthew 1:1 (NKJV)

My sister received an unusual early Christmas gift straight from the Lord. "Let me tell you what happened," she said. "I was standing at the library's copy machine and the lady behind me said, 'Orville's buried in Sidney, not Woodlawn.' She was collecting data for Find-a-Grave.com and knew the exact spot." Only God could have arranged that.

The next day, just twelve minutes away from her home, my sister located the gravesite of our great-great grandfather. The marker was in good shape; the script quite legible. The two of us were excited to discover the forgotten past. It gave us an emotional sense of belonging -- an identification and a new kind of self-understanding. Somehow, the structure and detail of the way we fit into God's plan changed from being abstract to being concrete.

In the same way, the very dull topic of who's dad is who's dad, the begats of the Christmas story, provides continuity and emotional grounding for Christians. Since the records trace the Savior's connections back to David, Abraham, Noah, and Adam, Jesus' credibility as Savior and Messiah is verified. Knowing the facts allows followers to enjoy a peaceful sense of acceptance and belonging to Christ. As proved in the genealogy, God's faithfulness and commitment to mankind is sure. Anyone who chooses to follow the One who can and does keep His promises attains a life-long security. When He claims us, we have a place to be, forever confident that He is trustworthy.

Lord, Thank you for verification that your Son is your Son, the fulfillment of your plan. Thank you for the emotional assurance which comes with your love. Amen.

© V. Colclasure 2010

Details, Details, Details

2010-12-20T10:39:00.000-05:00

But the Lord said to her, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.” - Luke 10:41-42 (NLT)

In the days leading up to Christmas, I can get worried about everything that has to be done. What’s the perfect present? Did I get everything I need at the grocery store for that new recipe? Is the house clean enough for guests who will be visiting? Can I lose ten pounds before that dress-up affair? And where will I get the money to pay for all of the extras?

Just like Martha, I can be worried and upset over all of the details, details, and more details. There are plenty of them all year round, but it seems like there are even more at Christmas time.

Maybe this year I should do more pausing and reflecting. I could buy some Christmas cookies at the bakery to serve when friends come. This will allow me to concentrate on talking with them instead of worrying about what to serve. Even if I can’t buy the best presents because of budget restraints, I can spend time with friends giving and receiving the gift of fellowship.

Most of all, I can re-read the story of the birth of Jesus in the Bible and be grateful that He came. This, after all, is worth being concerned about.

Dear Father, Please help me to keep Your Son at the center of my Christmas festivities. Amen.

© Jenni Hurst 2010

The Greatest Gift

2010-12-19T16:55:00.003-05:00

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 (NIV)

When I was young, my mother went out of her way to get my sister and me so excited about Christmas that we had a hard time going to sleep. Christmas morning found us up at dawn pacing the floor outside Mom and Dad's bedroom, listening for any sound of movement. Trying to wake them up, I would cough, sneeze and clear my throat. I did not realize they had spent all night getting everything ready for us.

One particular year, when they finally woke up, we all went downstairs. Dad went first to prepare the camera to capture our expressions when we saw our gifts. Bicycles! We raced to our bikes, hopped on, and tried to ride them in the house. Mom stopped us saying, "Look, there are other gifts under the tree, too." I could have cared less about those other gifts—I had a bike, and that was good enough for me.

As I grew up, I learned that getting gifts is nice, but giving feels the best. Now that I have raised my own children, I wish I had a picture of the look on my parents' faces when we got those bicycles. How much more excited must God be when we receive His gift of salvation.

The Christmas season is a time to remember the meek entrance of our Savior into this world. The baby Jesus born in a manger with Joseph and Mary looking upon their innocent child, the greatest gift this world will ever know.

Father, thank You for the greatest gift of all. Amen.

© Marcella Panowicz 2010

Butterfly Tree

2010-12-18T00:36:00.002-05:00

Therefore, if anyone be in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold all things have become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17 RKJV

While attending a nature seminar I listened to an expert talk about his love for butterflies. He raises these winged jewels and sells them for special occasions such as weddings, funerals and other memorable events. Some of his butterflies have even appeared in movies.

I was especially struck with his story about how he decorated his Christmas tree one year. He told of how he refrigerated a large number of chrysalides to slow down the process of metamorphosis. As he decorated his tree with them he lowered the thermostat in the room. Rising before his family in the wee hours of Christmas morning, he raised the thermostat to just the right temperature required to have the butterflies hatch at a precise time. When his family came downstairs the tree was alive with brilliantly colored butterflies gently fanning their wings to dry. What a gorgeous sight to behold!

Like the butterfly that must leave behind the ugly cocoon to soar on its beautiful wings, when we receive the Lord's gift of salvation, we exchange our old self with its burden of sin and gladly put on the new self that is beautifully clothed in His righteousness.

As I reflected on the poignancy of the moment when I became a new creature in Christ, leaving behind my old self while reveling in the freedom I found through His forgiveness, I thanked the Lord for the wonderful gift of His Son, Jesus.

Dearest Father, thank You for providing the way for us to leave our old self behind and be made new in You. Amen.

(c) Bonnie M. Evans 2010

Christmas Gifts

2010-12-17T15:38:00.004-05:00

They presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. Matthew 2:11b (KJV)

Christmas was almost here. Money was tight, so my mother worried about providing gifts for her three girls. However, she would not be defeated. The week before Christmas she went to Highlandtown to window shop. Everything she wanted was too expensive. Eventually Mother found the perfect gifts, took them home and wrapped them.

We were so excited on Christmas morning. Our gifts were so big! Mother handed each of us a box. Paper flew. My older sister, Gene, got a large washtub with a miniature washboard. My younger sister, Barbara, got a cute little highchair for her dolls. I received a metal ironing board with a real-looking iron. I was elated! At nine years old I could iron my dolly clothes.

It is amazing how prophetic those gifts were. Years later, Gene did tons of laundry for her six children. Barbara used a real highchair for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchild as they came along. I had plenty of ironing to do with three kids and a husband in the Army whose fatigues and dress uniforms had to look perfect.

Just as our gifts prepared us for our future, the gifts of the three wise men represented future events in Christ's life. Gold represented His deity. Frankincense was an aromatic resin representing Christ's sacrifice, and myrrh was sweet oil normally used in preparing a body for burial. God knew what was in store for His Son. The gifts to Jesus revealed who He was and what would happen in His life. Let us pay attention to the significance of God's gifts to us.

Prayer: Thank You, Father, for our favorite Christmas gift, Your Son, Jesus. Amen

(c) 2010
E. Bonnie Ryan

Songs in the Night

2010-12-10T13:39:00.001-05:00

I thought about the former days, the years of long ago; I remembered my songs in the night. My heart mused and my spirit inquired. Psalm 77:5, 6 (NIV)

When my oldest son was a baby, we moved to the suburbs west of Chicago. Late at night, Moody radio broadcast a unique program called “Songs in the Night.” Soft-spoken Bob Pierce was the host. God touched my young maternal heart through inspirational music, timely scripture and encouraging words. My spirit was lifted and I was motivated to draw closer to my Savior. I have never forgotten those nightly reminders of God’s presence. Years later I heard that the name of this special program was retired when Mr. Pierce went home to be with the Lord.

In the passage cited, the psalmist was in distress and his “soul refused to be comforted” (Psalm 77:2c). Then he remembered how God spoke to him when he cried out for help, and recalled God’s miracles of long ago. He was comforted by memories of God’s presence, and rested in the assurance that the Lord would again hear his prayers and come to him quietly with songs in the night.

As we recall God’s faithfulness through the years, we can be assured that He will comfort and be present with us when we are “too troubled to speak” (Psalm 77:4b). Our memories of the ways God has used friends, speakers, books and music to touch our hearts and speak to us remind us of how much He cares for us.

Thank You, Father, for the reminders of Your love through the beauty of Your songs in the night. In Jesus name, Amen.

© 2010 Diane E. Hussey

Life is More than Food

2010-12-03T17:43:00.006-05:00

Jesus said, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?” Matthew 6:25 (NIV)

It’s no secret that eating too much leads to obesity and related health problems. Sugar cravings can plague me until I succumb to temptation. At times, it’s like an addiction. I am consumed by it. I’ve read that an intense desire for carbohydrates may be a physical response to the need for serotonin, which helps the brain function effectively. It may also signal an unmet psychological need. When I gain weight, I beat myself up for failing to eat right, which seems only to make matters worse. It’s an ugly cycle. Jesus makes it clear that I should not worry but, instead seek the more important things in life.

The Apostle Paul said it this way: Do not conform to the patterns of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. When I am engaged in God’s purpose for my life, I am spiritually nourished and worldly cravings disappear. My hunger has not been for food, but for a deep involvement in the things of God. Breaking out of the pattern of self-centeredness to reach with love to others causes my worries to also diminish.

Heavenly Father, help me to remain focused on seeking my fill of You rather than seeking fulfillment in the things of this world. Instead of indulging myself with food, clothes or other things of the world, Lord, let me indulge in You. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

© 2010 Stephanie L. Snead

Give Thanks

2010-11-25T08:38:00.002-05:00

“ Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16 NIV

On hearing from Timothy the conditions in Thessalonica, Paul writes a letter from Corinth. He writes to encourage and teach the Thessalonians more about Christianity. He knew from first-hand experience the trials and strong oppositions they were suffering. Yet he told them to “give thanks in all circumstances.”

Today we hear Paul and try to give thanks in whatever circumstance we face because we too have the same hope that Paul writes about. It has become increasingly difficult to openly express our Christian view among the opposition that we face daily. The perception that it is illegal to pray openly in the schools, sport events or workplaces is rampant. But Paul tells us to “pray continually.” We are to give thanks in all things and be “joyful always.”

We are thankful when we realize that we still live in a free country. There is still the freedom to go to church, Bible studies and Christian events without fear of being arrested. We can go to our neighbor's homes and share the “Good News” about our Savior.

So take heart my dear friends and be thankful that we have a Savior who loves us dearly. He will triumphantly see us through whatever circumstances we face. Continue to pray with a joyful heart and the knowledge that Jesus is Lord of all.

Thank You Father for each and every circumstance you place in my path. Help me to see that this is just another way to see Your will for my life. Keep me always steadfast in Your love.
© 2010 Dawn M Sexton