Matt 9:9-11
“And as Jesus passed on from there, He saw a man, called Matthew, sitting in the tax office; and He said to him, “Follow Me!” And he rose, and followed Him.
And it happened that as He was reclining at the table in the house, behold many tax-gatherers and sinners came and were dining with Jesus and His disciples.
And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to His disciples, “Why is your Teacher eating with the tax-gatherers and sinners?”
Matt 9:12-13
“But when He heard this, He said, “It is not those who are healthy who need a physician, but those who are sick.
But go and learn what this means, I desire compassion, and not sacrifice, for I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”
In this world, I want to be where Jesus is. This scripture shows me two possible locations…daring to go into the world to places the Church deems unseemly where sinners gather OR stay put in my Church where sinners gather…because in either location, Jesus says that He is not going toward those who are “healthy” but toward those who are sick.
And apart from total transformation on earth, we are all spiritually sick to one degree or another. As bad as a diagnosis of cancer is, when it is brought into awareness, a doctor - a specialist is called for immediately. And all known resources are summoned for the purposes of mitigating damage and restoring health.
It is a far more dangerous situation to have a cancer go undetected, unaware of our desperate need for the skilled physician. The good news is that Jesus goes toward those aware of their sinful conditions, and as I said before, I want to be where I know Jesus can be found. And so, like the tax collectors and sinners gathered together, we need to be mindful of our sin condition, our particular propensities for sin because Jesus can be found there. And as the scripture teaches, that’s where healing begins.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Goodness & Love
I was invited to attend a Jewish Sabbath service last year with friends in a small town. This was a unique experience for me and I was struck and convicted as I listened to the lesson the rabbi offered:
He asked us - You are on your way home from the mall and an ambulance zooms ahead of you with siren blaring. What is your first response? And I answered silently,
"God please don't let the ambulance be going to my house".
Most in the audience admitted that they, too, had the same response. The rabbi asked us to consider a different response. “God, please be with whomever the ambulance is going to help and be merciful to their family” Our collective selfish natures were exposed.
When we were little we all learned the prayer, “God is great, God is good, let us thank Him for our food” and the song, "Jesus loves me, this I know". In recalling the lesson I learned at the Sabbath service, I now sometimes sing it this way - "Jesus loves me (and everybody else), this I know...." It is imperative that I not consider myself an only child, but be mindful that Jesus loves everybody else, too.
From our perspective, good news to a lost person is great, especially the living forever part. Once we believe – “We’re in”! But an unsaved person or a backslidden Christian may first be looking for God’s kingdom on earth. Have you considered and been affected by God’s inherent goodness? His worth? Has this awareness transformed your life, the ways in which you relate to others? What good is eternal life if we aren’t much affected by amazing grace in the here and now? Our response to the gift of eternal life is to connect and relate to others, impacting our society, one heart – one soul at a time. That way, God’s goodness will be heralded and His kingdom on earth will be strengthened. How? With transformed lives and a spiritual capacity to be abnormally loving and abnormally kind to those placed in our paths.
So why witness to others? Maybe most importantly because God is good. God is inherently worthy of our witness. So the next time you approach someone with good news about eternity, ask yourself, “Am I living out the gospel, expressing my great appreciation of eternal life in the here and now?” And be mindful that we are approaching those valued and relentlessly loved by God, just as He loves us…even the cranky, even the dirty, even those who lash out at us, unable to grasp their own value in relation to a God that is very good.
“Open your eyes and see how good God is!” Ps. 34:8
He asked us - You are on your way home from the mall and an ambulance zooms ahead of you with siren blaring. What is your first response? And I answered silently,
"God please don't let the ambulance be going to my house".
Most in the audience admitted that they, too, had the same response. The rabbi asked us to consider a different response. “God, please be with whomever the ambulance is going to help and be merciful to their family” Our collective selfish natures were exposed.
When we were little we all learned the prayer, “God is great, God is good, let us thank Him for our food” and the song, "Jesus loves me, this I know". In recalling the lesson I learned at the Sabbath service, I now sometimes sing it this way - "Jesus loves me (and everybody else), this I know...." It is imperative that I not consider myself an only child, but be mindful that Jesus loves everybody else, too.
From our perspective, good news to a lost person is great, especially the living forever part. Once we believe – “We’re in”! But an unsaved person or a backslidden Christian may first be looking for God’s kingdom on earth. Have you considered and been affected by God’s inherent goodness? His worth? Has this awareness transformed your life, the ways in which you relate to others? What good is eternal life if we aren’t much affected by amazing grace in the here and now? Our response to the gift of eternal life is to connect and relate to others, impacting our society, one heart – one soul at a time. That way, God’s goodness will be heralded and His kingdom on earth will be strengthened. How? With transformed lives and a spiritual capacity to be abnormally loving and abnormally kind to those placed in our paths.
So why witness to others? Maybe most importantly because God is good. God is inherently worthy of our witness. So the next time you approach someone with good news about eternity, ask yourself, “Am I living out the gospel, expressing my great appreciation of eternal life in the here and now?” And be mindful that we are approaching those valued and relentlessly loved by God, just as He loves us…even the cranky, even the dirty, even those who lash out at us, unable to grasp their own value in relation to a God that is very good.
“Open your eyes and see how good God is!” Ps. 34:8
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Under the Rubble
As it was happening, The Church prayed and witnessed babies, young children and adults pulled from the rubble in Haiti. And, if honest, many of us were sorely tempted to change the channel after a while. Each passing day showed us converse images – babies, young children and adults not found in time, perishing under the rubble. And we watched those that loved them wandering the streets grief stricken and in shock.
In the midst of the disaster, it was good to note that faith based groups already abounded in Haiti ministering to the poorest of the poor and to those with no advocate. And many of the Christian workers lost their lives helping the people they were serving. So there was risk involved and sacrifices made. Sounds Christ-like to me.
Though no one would wish disaster upon others, I believe the images and pictures of loved ones and strangers trapped in the rubble can serve as a wake-up call to Christians safely tucked into their doctrine, churches, bank accounts and daily routines.
If you flip through channels on a Sunday morning, the viewing public is bombarded with terms like “saved by grace”, “when the roll is called up yonder”, and “I’d rather have Jesus than silver and gold”. You get the picture. But, do we really get the picture?
As a professional counselor I am taught to discern between differences in affect (our mood and related feelings…the emotional part of the presentation) and the actual words a client offers. Many times it is my task to point out differences and explore, working with the client for integrity and meaning.
Under the Rubble….though the Church in America is not physically pulling people out of actual rubble, we are in the midst of people trapped in rubble each day. There are folks in our neighborhoods, walking the streets, college kids, etc. that are trapped spiritually and need someone to help pull them out. Do our eyes well up with tears and emotion for them? Are we grief stricken? Do we think about their spiritual death and our responsibilities to search and rescue? Will you be that person today? Will we be careful with catch phrases and clichés and focus more upon risking our routines and comfort zones to sacrifice for someone in need, especially in need of the gospel?
It’s true – it’s by grace that we have anything. That’s an important detail to share with another. And let’s not go out to rehab someone, checking off our list. Let’s go toward someone with the gospel, and anticipate the blessing we will receive getting to know them and their respective stories as we are led to share our own. In this fashion I believe we are the aroma of Christ.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
The One Thing
In thinking ahead to 2010, consider the most important New Year's resolution as you order your life. With the choices offered each day, make the commitment to seek the Lord first, asking for His guidance in living our best lives, glorifying Him for His purposes. Amen and amen.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Home For the Holidays
Family - what shapes the heart....good or bad. Many folks have truly happy memories, savoring and embellishing them as we age. And some folks are troubled throughout their lives by childhood memories that could have been better. Good or bad, most families do the best with what they have and what they know to do at the time. So be thankful and honor a strong foundation and if you yearned for more, strive for the ideal in providing for your own family.....and shape a heart for good.
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Saturday Morning Santification Moment...
Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable to thee, O God, and my redeemer.
Psalm 19:14
I saw this scripture reference on the back of a freight truck as I was driving down the highway this week. Don't know if it helped the driver of the truck but because the reference was IN MY FACE for about 30 miles, I laughed as I thought about how God uses the ordinary things in the world for his purposes. So, of course, I asked God to help me think about these things more.
And He did. This morning I jumped up as usual, excited to have another day! I am SUCH a morning person. And, with my favorite coffee in hand, thought of the 1,000 things I could do today - Saturday morning. I power hosed my front porch because spring cleaning eluded me this year AND I have a party Tuesday evening at my home. I weeded the flower garden and then plopped down to catch a 30 minute segment of HGTV (because I am the Renovator Wife).
And, as clear as day I heard in my mind...or was it my heart?
"Let the weeds in my garden and the mediatations about them...
"Let the dishes in my sink and the meditations about them....
"Let my workout today and the meditations about it....
And, of course, there's nothing wrong with those things but it hit me hard....AGAIN....and AGAIN....that the Lord and His attributes don't begin and crown the gift of another day that He has blessed me with. So it's usually about me and what I want to do. It should be about first falling on my face with thanksgiving, separating the sacred and asking Him to order my day and bless the energies I exert.
So a big shout out to whoever decided to order their business and print the scripture reference, and of course, to God who's faithful to draw near when I draw near to Him.
Psalm 19:14
I saw this scripture reference on the back of a freight truck as I was driving down the highway this week. Don't know if it helped the driver of the truck but because the reference was IN MY FACE for about 30 miles, I laughed as I thought about how God uses the ordinary things in the world for his purposes. So, of course, I asked God to help me think about these things more.
And He did. This morning I jumped up as usual, excited to have another day! I am SUCH a morning person. And, with my favorite coffee in hand, thought of the 1,000 things I could do today - Saturday morning. I power hosed my front porch because spring cleaning eluded me this year AND I have a party Tuesday evening at my home. I weeded the flower garden and then plopped down to catch a 30 minute segment of HGTV (because I am the Renovator Wife).
And, as clear as day I heard in my mind...or was it my heart?
"Let the weeds in my garden and the mediatations about them...
"Let the dishes in my sink and the meditations about them....
"Let my workout today and the meditations about it....
And, of course, there's nothing wrong with those things but it hit me hard....AGAIN....and AGAIN....that the Lord and His attributes don't begin and crown the gift of another day that He has blessed me with. So it's usually about me and what I want to do. It should be about first falling on my face with thanksgiving, separating the sacred and asking Him to order my day and bless the energies I exert.
So a big shout out to whoever decided to order their business and print the scripture reference, and of course, to God who's faithful to draw near when I draw near to Him.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
My Own Need and The Desires of My Heart
It's Sunday morning - The Lord's Day. In the original prayer by Charley Gunter, he prays for his children. Using this, I've been praying for my own children, pondering the desires of my heart and struck by my own neediness. So, as a spiritual exercise I reworked the prayer emphasizing my own need and began offering it to God. I also insert the names of others as God brings them to my heart and mind. I hope you find this useful and thank the Lord for Charley Gunter's beautiful prayer.
Heavenly Father, thank You for my salvation. Thank You for choosing me to be Your child. Thank You that You have lavished Your riches and Your inheritance on me, although I could do nothing to earn it or deserve it.
I pray for my legs to walk always with You, not racing ahead, not lagging behind, not wandering off, but day-by-day walking with Jesus, so that He is my constant companion. God, take me where You want me to go and keep me from the places I shouldn’t go. Give me strength to continue when I feel weak. Give me courage to keep on walking with You, even when the road ahead looks uncertain and dim. Give me grace to bridge gaps, to leap walls, to span the separations between people and groups.
I pray for my feet, that You would place them where You want them to stand. Plant my feet on the immovable rock of Jesus. Talk to me when storms come or the world’s attractions try to lure me down its path. Whisper in my ear and to my spirit, “Stand firm.”
Through my arms, always do Your work. Strengthen them, hold me up, and direct me to do whatever You want me to do. Make my time valuable for eternity, not just the quick flash that is the span of my days on earth.
I pray for my hands that I will often fold them in prayer. Make me mighty in prayer. Teach me to pray after Your own heart. Enable me to live my lives so that everyone will see Your signature, “This one is the Lord’s.”
Give me the patience to wait on You, Lord, so that You may renew my spirit and I may soar as on eagle’s wings.
By Your enabling power, make my will as strong as iron for clinging to what is good and resisting evil. Cause me to be unyielding in following righteousness and rejecting anything not pure, holy, and completely from You. Make my will toward You as pliable as spun silk when You convict me of sin or following my own way. Give me a tender heart and teachable spirit for You, God.
I pray for my character, that You will make it strong and godly. Use godly men and women to mold, shape, and weave my character, beliefs, and views of You as You want to make me. Enable by Your grace that my conscience will be clear.
I pray I will keep a short list of accounts with You and quickly acknowledge sin to You and confess my wrongs. Give me the humility to seek forgiveness from the ones I offend. Enlarge my heart to grant forgiveness freely, even before it is asked, when I am wronged.
I pray for my heart, that You would guard it. Keep me protected, covered, shielded, and sheltered from all harm that seeks to touch it. Make my heart soft when I should show compassion, firm when “tough love” is required, and always holy.
By Your power, protect my body. Give me the ultimate gift of Your Presence. Hold me and comfort me when I am afraid, lonely, sad, or discouraged. If it is within Your will and brings glory to You, keep me well and safe, and heal me when I am sick or injured. Give me the strength and the courage to keep on keepin’ on when I feel I cannot any longer.
I pray for my mind, that regarding the things of Christ I will be full of knowledge and wisdom, and regarding the things of sin I will be discerning. Give me Your wisdom to evaluate what I see.
Light my eyes with the light of Christ shining within me. Filter what I will see through holy filters. Protect me and keep me, for the devil masquerades as an angel of light. Give me holy understanding to see past the surface, to see the world from Your perspective, and to respond as You would.
Father, put Your Word in my ears and in my heart frequently. I pray that I will not listen to unwise counsel or foolish talk and will seek Your wisdom and Your ways all my days.
I pray for my mouth, that words of praise and prayer will be on my lips always. Curb them from speaking rashly or without thought, so that I will bring honor and glory to You.
I pray for my countenance, that I will reflect Your glory and the radiance of the hope that is alive within me.
Sanctify my pocketbook, and teach me to be a good steward of what You give me. Teach me the principles of Your economy, the way to manage and use the things that You loan me. Beyond finances and possessions, make me a good steward of my talents, time, and opportunities You send. Help me to acknowledge that everything is Yours, and because of that, I need not worry or fear loss.
I pray that I will abide in righteousness and live worthy of the One who purchased my life from destruction and eternal death. Show me that life is in Christ alone, that there is no other source of life, joy, light, peace, comfort, love, or truth that can endure forever, and no other is pure or holy but You.
Father, I place all these things in Your hands in the name of the One who is able to do all things, beyond anything we ask or imagine, to whom is all glory, honor, and praise, Amen.
*** Original Prayer by Charley Gunter, praying for Richmond and Margie Louise
Heavenly Father, thank You for my salvation. Thank You for choosing me to be Your child. Thank You that You have lavished Your riches and Your inheritance on me, although I could do nothing to earn it or deserve it.
I pray for my legs to walk always with You, not racing ahead, not lagging behind, not wandering off, but day-by-day walking with Jesus, so that He is my constant companion. God, take me where You want me to go and keep me from the places I shouldn’t go. Give me strength to continue when I feel weak. Give me courage to keep on walking with You, even when the road ahead looks uncertain and dim. Give me grace to bridge gaps, to leap walls, to span the separations between people and groups.
I pray for my feet, that You would place them where You want them to stand. Plant my feet on the immovable rock of Jesus. Talk to me when storms come or the world’s attractions try to lure me down its path. Whisper in my ear and to my spirit, “Stand firm.”
Through my arms, always do Your work. Strengthen them, hold me up, and direct me to do whatever You want me to do. Make my time valuable for eternity, not just the quick flash that is the span of my days on earth.
I pray for my hands that I will often fold them in prayer. Make me mighty in prayer. Teach me to pray after Your own heart. Enable me to live my lives so that everyone will see Your signature, “This one is the Lord’s.”
Give me the patience to wait on You, Lord, so that You may renew my spirit and I may soar as on eagle’s wings.
By Your enabling power, make my will as strong as iron for clinging to what is good and resisting evil. Cause me to be unyielding in following righteousness and rejecting anything not pure, holy, and completely from You. Make my will toward You as pliable as spun silk when You convict me of sin or following my own way. Give me a tender heart and teachable spirit for You, God.
I pray for my character, that You will make it strong and godly. Use godly men and women to mold, shape, and weave my character, beliefs, and views of You as You want to make me. Enable by Your grace that my conscience will be clear.
I pray I will keep a short list of accounts with You and quickly acknowledge sin to You and confess my wrongs. Give me the humility to seek forgiveness from the ones I offend. Enlarge my heart to grant forgiveness freely, even before it is asked, when I am wronged.
I pray for my heart, that You would guard it. Keep me protected, covered, shielded, and sheltered from all harm that seeks to touch it. Make my heart soft when I should show compassion, firm when “tough love” is required, and always holy.
By Your power, protect my body. Give me the ultimate gift of Your Presence. Hold me and comfort me when I am afraid, lonely, sad, or discouraged. If it is within Your will and brings glory to You, keep me well and safe, and heal me when I am sick or injured. Give me the strength and the courage to keep on keepin’ on when I feel I cannot any longer.
I pray for my mind, that regarding the things of Christ I will be full of knowledge and wisdom, and regarding the things of sin I will be discerning. Give me Your wisdom to evaluate what I see.
Light my eyes with the light of Christ shining within me. Filter what I will see through holy filters. Protect me and keep me, for the devil masquerades as an angel of light. Give me holy understanding to see past the surface, to see the world from Your perspective, and to respond as You would.
Father, put Your Word in my ears and in my heart frequently. I pray that I will not listen to unwise counsel or foolish talk and will seek Your wisdom and Your ways all my days.
I pray for my mouth, that words of praise and prayer will be on my lips always. Curb them from speaking rashly or without thought, so that I will bring honor and glory to You.
I pray for my countenance, that I will reflect Your glory and the radiance of the hope that is alive within me.
Sanctify my pocketbook, and teach me to be a good steward of what You give me. Teach me the principles of Your economy, the way to manage and use the things that You loan me. Beyond finances and possessions, make me a good steward of my talents, time, and opportunities You send. Help me to acknowledge that everything is Yours, and because of that, I need not worry or fear loss.
I pray that I will abide in righteousness and live worthy of the One who purchased my life from destruction and eternal death. Show me that life is in Christ alone, that there is no other source of life, joy, light, peace, comfort, love, or truth that can endure forever, and no other is pure or holy but You.
Father, I place all these things in Your hands in the name of the One who is able to do all things, beyond anything we ask or imagine, to whom is all glory, honor, and praise, Amen.
*** Original Prayer by Charley Gunter, praying for Richmond and Margie Louise
Sunday, March 29, 2009
My Dear Eleanor
I prayed for you last night that God would give you peace and rest from this chronic illness. I prayed that you might be aware of those gone ahead. I thank you for giving me a model for life and living. I thank you for always being “who” you were, and sure of "Who" you belonged to. Thanks for allowing me to watch and learn from you, living out a life of service with a perfect mix of common sense and your own style of humor. To have known you is to have known of Jesus and the intimate, intentional conversation you shared with Him.
My family and I have been privileged to have you pray for us over the years. You knew how to pray for my children sometimes better than I did. You sustained me in tough times and I am one of countless folks to have received your intercession to the Father.
And now you are gone. And I know that the faith that you lived out in this life will be greatly rewarded forever and that you are now in His very Presence. It's what your life was all about! Good race, Eleanor. May God richly comfort your family and those of us left behind without your bright light. You were my friend and Friends Are Friends Forever.
My family and I have been privileged to have you pray for us over the years. You knew how to pray for my children sometimes better than I did. You sustained me in tough times and I am one of countless folks to have received your intercession to the Father.
And now you are gone. And I know that the faith that you lived out in this life will be greatly rewarded forever and that you are now in His very Presence. It's what your life was all about! Good race, Eleanor. May God richly comfort your family and those of us left behind without your bright light. You were my friend and Friends Are Friends Forever.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Angels In Our Midst?
Do you believe in angels? I'm careful, though, because I want to stay true to scripture as best I can. I know angels are fighting unseen principalities all around us and protecting us. I know about Michael and Gabriel and yes, even Lucifer. I know that angels got a raw deal in Sodom & Gomorrah. And I know we are taught that angels are always subordinate to Christ and His purposes.
But in scripture it reminds humans to be "hospitable" because you may not be aware that you are entertaining angels. So - would it be so crazy to suspect that we've encountered them in this world? Do you suspect that a particular person in your life, past or present, may have been an angel on assignment? I do.
Of course I won't mention names but my son had a counselor at his school who intervened at the right time. His strategic actions for my son and others were nothing short of miraculous and he devoted his life to his vocation. He never married but lived a full life, judging from his countenance in public view much of the time. Of all the people I know, this man may just have been our "angel" in difficult times. And if he wasn't supernatural, then he lived out an exceptional life, subordinate to Christ and His purposes.
But in scripture it reminds humans to be "hospitable" because you may not be aware that you are entertaining angels. So - would it be so crazy to suspect that we've encountered them in this world? Do you suspect that a particular person in your life, past or present, may have been an angel on assignment? I do.
Of course I won't mention names but my son had a counselor at his school who intervened at the right time. His strategic actions for my son and others were nothing short of miraculous and he devoted his life to his vocation. He never married but lived a full life, judging from his countenance in public view much of the time. Of all the people I know, this man may just have been our "angel" in difficult times. And if he wasn't supernatural, then he lived out an exceptional life, subordinate to Christ and His purposes.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Weeds Gone Wild!
Do not pass go, do not collect $200.....go directly to jail! With the economic meltdown and counting every penny and rethinking every purchase, it kind of feels like our family's drawn that dreaded card......for the moment.
With two kids in college, a mortgage and business commitments that can't wait, we are feeling the stress. And I watch my husband carry a heavy load. Yes, yes, I work, too and I am his partner but he is the head of our family and bears a unique responsibility.
At breakfast, I suggested we go out to an inexpensive Mexican restaurant tonight for a "Latin date" and come home to watch our favorite show - American Idol. I figured tonight would be the night for combining two good events as I needed to spread our refrigerator contents throughout the week!
As we ate, I looked out of my kitchen window and saw the pesky green weeds growing wildly through last year's mulch. I immediately thought of the effort it would take this weekend to pull them. And then I lingered through the window and noticed the most beautiful tiny purple blooms on the weeds, realizing it was my favorite color combination - purple and green.
This simple blessing changed my focus. I tried to encourage my good husband. And I thanked the Lord for allowing me to size up my pantry and refrigerator this morning - for reminding me that I shouldn't take for granted the things many don't have on most days and that the weeds I tend to see yield beauty in their special time. Lord, help me to know that the things I have and want ebb & flow but Your provision is always there - and many times most unexpected, even in uncertain times.
With two kids in college, a mortgage and business commitments that can't wait, we are feeling the stress. And I watch my husband carry a heavy load. Yes, yes, I work, too and I am his partner but he is the head of our family and bears a unique responsibility.
At breakfast, I suggested we go out to an inexpensive Mexican restaurant tonight for a "Latin date" and come home to watch our favorite show - American Idol. I figured tonight would be the night for combining two good events as I needed to spread our refrigerator contents throughout the week!
As we ate, I looked out of my kitchen window and saw the pesky green weeds growing wildly through last year's mulch. I immediately thought of the effort it would take this weekend to pull them. And then I lingered through the window and noticed the most beautiful tiny purple blooms on the weeds, realizing it was my favorite color combination - purple and green.
This simple blessing changed my focus. I tried to encourage my good husband. And I thanked the Lord for allowing me to size up my pantry and refrigerator this morning - for reminding me that I shouldn't take for granted the things many don't have on most days and that the weeds I tend to see yield beauty in their special time. Lord, help me to know that the things I have and want ebb & flow but Your provision is always there - and many times most unexpected, even in uncertain times.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
On the Wings and a Prayer
To fly on an airplane is exceptional, to fly as the sun rises.....priceless! Flying has always been a spiritual discipline for me. It allows me to get "out of my ordinary" and provokes thoughts to the contrary.
For instance, as I dutifully march down the jetway to board I try to catch a glimpse of the flight crew. I begin to pray that God would alleviate what may ail them and bring all their training and experience to mind.
I ask the Lord for angels to ride on the wings of the plane, protecting us from the unseen forces that seek to undermine His purposes and His people.
And then I ask for forgiveness. The exercise of flying makes me think differently about God, myself and others. It's when I fly that I think about faith and giving up control. Most important is that I'm reminded God is sovereign, in control, The Potter, and my Father. And no matter what happens, I commit my spirit into The Hands that already hold me. This is not only true on the exceptional days that I fly but every ordinary moment of every ordinary day of my life.
For instance, as I dutifully march down the jetway to board I try to catch a glimpse of the flight crew. I begin to pray that God would alleviate what may ail them and bring all their training and experience to mind.
I ask the Lord for angels to ride on the wings of the plane, protecting us from the unseen forces that seek to undermine His purposes and His people.
And then I ask for forgiveness. The exercise of flying makes me think differently about God, myself and others. It's when I fly that I think about faith and giving up control. Most important is that I'm reminded God is sovereign, in control, The Potter, and my Father. And no matter what happens, I commit my spirit into The Hands that already hold me. This is not only true on the exceptional days that I fly but every ordinary moment of every ordinary day of my life.
Friday, March 6, 2009
What Will I Do With Today?
I am wired for mornings. Really and truly, I'm always amazed to wake up again and breathe in. Not being a morning person, my husband is also amazed when I pop up early each morning without the aid of an alarm clock. I relish a new day and try to be sitting next to a window with a nice cup of coffee to see the sun rise. And if, for some reason, I am unable to have this peculiar ritual, then I am actually jealous of the morning beginning without me. For you night owls, I know I am overwhelming you!
It's after this early morning window of euphoria that I get into trouble. Because of my wiring, my mind spins as I think of the ways I could utilize the day. And sometimes, I get overwhelmed in making the best choices.
I am acutely aware that in God's plan nothing goes to waste. And so, it is fruitless to get up and start my day without asking God to direct my energies, my time - all for His purposes, even if I don't understand the details. Many mornings I listen to the song by Chris Rice, Life Means So Much.
So really, each new morning God and I are simply having coffee, watching His sun rise together and deciding what we'll do today.
So how will you use Today?
It's after this early morning window of euphoria that I get into trouble. Because of my wiring, my mind spins as I think of the ways I could utilize the day. And sometimes, I get overwhelmed in making the best choices.
I am acutely aware that in God's plan nothing goes to waste. And so, it is fruitless to get up and start my day without asking God to direct my energies, my time - all for His purposes, even if I don't understand the details. Many mornings I listen to the song by Chris Rice, Life Means So Much.
So really, each new morning God and I are simply having coffee, watching His sun rise together and deciding what we'll do today.
So how will you use Today?
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Thanks....I Think?
Being asked to be in a wedding at my age is tricky. It's kind of like when you're enjoying a fine glass of wine and the little 21 year old waiter asks to see your ID. You feel honored, overwhelmed, then somber, then panicky!
I mean, how great is it to be included with the "few and the proud" who are asked to stand beside a friend who's finally found her soulmate? And then the somber sets in - will my friend turn into "bridezilla" and pretend we're all 22? Or will she pretend we're all investment bankers? Will I love her NO MATTER WHAT? And then....the panic begins! What was I thinking as I crammed that coconut pie in my mouth, tearfully thanking her for thinking of me and promising to get into the little dress in 8 weeks?
At least the dress is Lapis - maybe it's the new "black" this year - that'll surely help. And maybe I can get some quack doctor to sew my jaw shut for awhile. If not, a strong over the counter colonic cleansing will do! After the panic attack waned, I crawled out from under my desk and took a deep breath...
Wow, I thought, I may not have a 6-pack of abs but I do have a great 6-pack of friends! I won't have a spray on tan but I'll be holding a beautiful spray of fresh wildflowers! And I'll be a part of something very special - something bigger than my behind!
I mean, how great is it to be included with the "few and the proud" who are asked to stand beside a friend who's finally found her soulmate? And then the somber sets in - will my friend turn into "bridezilla" and pretend we're all 22? Or will she pretend we're all investment bankers? Will I love her NO MATTER WHAT? And then....the panic begins! What was I thinking as I crammed that coconut pie in my mouth, tearfully thanking her for thinking of me and promising to get into the little dress in 8 weeks?
At least the dress is Lapis - maybe it's the new "black" this year - that'll surely help. And maybe I can get some quack doctor to sew my jaw shut for awhile. If not, a strong over the counter colonic cleansing will do! After the panic attack waned, I crawled out from under my desk and took a deep breath...
Wow, I thought, I may not have a 6-pack of abs but I do have a great 6-pack of friends! I won't have a spray on tan but I'll be holding a beautiful spray of fresh wildflowers! And I'll be a part of something very special - something bigger than my behind!
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Wisdom Through Suffering
I remember how frustrated my friend was who started a counseling practice at the tender age of 26. Though covered up in people needing services, there were several who walked in, looked at my friend and announced..."I'm sure you know your stuff, but there's just no way at your age you could know anything about my stuff."
I asked God many years ago to teach me and point me toward wisdom. Over the years I've decided that instead of small talk I'd rather talk to people at any age who have "been through the fire". I mean folks who've been through what most of us run from - those who can tell you what's been lost and then found, what's been broken and then mended. Because, really, that's what I need to know.
I count one of my greatest blessings to be my encounter this week with a young soul who's been through the fire. I want to thank her for the wisdom she imparted to me because, like the coin lost, it was a gift of great value. I want her to know I don't take her tears for granted in honestly telling me her story - good and bad. Her openess about her journey with life threatening illness elicited a brave honesty in me. She gave me the gift of a spiritual conversation about spiritual things, better than gold. I want to thank her.
Suffering is a mystery but I am absolutely sure it is of great value in a broken world. It rights cafeteria styled theology - if I do this then that won't happen to me. It reinforces the story of Job - that when all else is stripped from us, it's about the relationship between God and me and our dependence on Him. And whether we are experiencing the mystery of suffering or oblivious in our distractions, that is the Truth, isn't it?
My neighbor told me yesterday how scared he was to get on a plane because it could go down like the stories recently in the news....I thought to myself - any of us could go down at any moment, for any reason. Wisdom is in being aware and working towards an honest connection to God with every breath and in every waking moment. Click on Be Still and earnestly begin that journey today...
I asked God many years ago to teach me and point me toward wisdom. Over the years I've decided that instead of small talk I'd rather talk to people at any age who have "been through the fire". I mean folks who've been through what most of us run from - those who can tell you what's been lost and then found, what's been broken and then mended. Because, really, that's what I need to know.
I count one of my greatest blessings to be my encounter this week with a young soul who's been through the fire. I want to thank her for the wisdom she imparted to me because, like the coin lost, it was a gift of great value. I want her to know I don't take her tears for granted in honestly telling me her story - good and bad. Her openess about her journey with life threatening illness elicited a brave honesty in me. She gave me the gift of a spiritual conversation about spiritual things, better than gold. I want to thank her.
Suffering is a mystery but I am absolutely sure it is of great value in a broken world. It rights cafeteria styled theology - if I do this then that won't happen to me. It reinforces the story of Job - that when all else is stripped from us, it's about the relationship between God and me and our dependence on Him. And whether we are experiencing the mystery of suffering or oblivious in our distractions, that is the Truth, isn't it?
My neighbor told me yesterday how scared he was to get on a plane because it could go down like the stories recently in the news....I thought to myself - any of us could go down at any moment, for any reason. Wisdom is in being aware and working towards an honest connection to God with every breath and in every waking moment. Click on Be Still and earnestly begin that journey today...
Sunday, February 8, 2009
My Birthday Prayer
Thank you for allowing me to wake up
and feel no pain today and
to breathe in deeply,
to feel the warmth of a fire and
to feel the breeze over the tops of the trees as I watch Your amazing sunrise –
a sunrise that announces and reaffirms Your sovereignty.
All gifts from You.
Thank you for the generosity of a friend
in offering me a place of sanctuary to experience Your presence Today.
Thank you for providing me a life long friend to share Today
and the man I asked You for to join me, sharing unexpected intimacy.
Thank You for solitude and silence to right my thoughts
and point me once again to You and Your goodness.
Help me to embrace the good that You provide in my life Today
and forgive me for squandering and diminishing
your provision of blessings.
In my shortcomings, willful disobedience and doubt,
have mercy on me as I navigate through this day, this life
and help me to embrace eternity.
But more important, I ask that You help me recognize You – Jesus
in every aspect of Today, complete with awe and wonder,
knowing that eternity has already begun.
Whether I’m in this world or heaven, I am sure I am nothing apart from my Creator, the Potter who has molded me for His purposes. May You become greater and greater in my life, and may I willingly give myself to Your care. Help me to believe, to trust and love others well.
and feel no pain today and
to breathe in deeply,
to feel the warmth of a fire and
to feel the breeze over the tops of the trees as I watch Your amazing sunrise –
a sunrise that announces and reaffirms Your sovereignty.
All gifts from You.
Thank you for the generosity of a friend
in offering me a place of sanctuary to experience Your presence Today.
Thank you for providing me a life long friend to share Today
and the man I asked You for to join me, sharing unexpected intimacy.
Thank You for solitude and silence to right my thoughts
and point me once again to You and Your goodness.
Help me to embrace the good that You provide in my life Today
and forgive me for squandering and diminishing
your provision of blessings.
In my shortcomings, willful disobedience and doubt,
have mercy on me as I navigate through this day, this life
and help me to embrace eternity.
But more important, I ask that You help me recognize You – Jesus
in every aspect of Today, complete with awe and wonder,
knowing that eternity has already begun.
Whether I’m in this world or heaven, I am sure I am nothing apart from my Creator, the Potter who has molded me for His purposes. May You become greater and greater in my life, and may I willingly give myself to Your care. Help me to believe, to trust and love others well.
Friday, January 30, 2009
If You Have a Hole In Your Heart
If you have a hole in your heart, troubled or have something heavy on your mind, consider the heart felt lyrics of Grand Canyon by Susan Ashton. As you begin this day - also commit your heart to healing and becoming fully alive.
I've seen You calm the waters raging in the rivers of my mind
Your spirit blows a breeze into my soul
And I've felt the fire that warms the heart
Knowing that it comes from You
Then I've let it turn as cold as a stone
Sometimes I feel like I'm as close as your shadow and
Sometimes I feel like I'm looking up at You from the bottom of the
Grand Canyon, so small and so far
From the Grand Canyon, with a hole in my heart
And I'm a long way from where I know I need to be
When there's a Grand Canyon between You and me
I've had the faith that gave me strength for moving any mountainside
I've felt the solid ground beneath my feet
But I've had the bread of idleness while drinking from a well of doubt
And it shakes the core of all I believe
Sometimes I feel like I'm as close as your shadow and
Sometimes I feel like I'm looking up at you from the bottom of the Grand Canyon
When there's a Grand Canyon between You and me
I've seen You calm the waters raging in the rivers of my mind
Your spirit blows a breeze into my soul
And I've felt the fire that warms the heart
Knowing that it comes from You
Then I've let it turn as cold as a stone
Sometimes I feel like I'm as close as your shadow and
Sometimes I feel like I'm looking up at You from the bottom of the
Grand Canyon, so small and so far
From the Grand Canyon, with a hole in my heart
And I'm a long way from where I know I need to be
When there's a Grand Canyon between You and me
I've had the faith that gave me strength for moving any mountainside
I've felt the solid ground beneath my feet
But I've had the bread of idleness while drinking from a well of doubt
And it shakes the core of all I believe
Sometimes I feel like I'm as close as your shadow and
Sometimes I feel like I'm looking up at you from the bottom of the Grand Canyon
When there's a Grand Canyon between You and me
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Creativity as Preached by Erwin McManus
A great resource and amazing pastor is Erwin McManus, who founded Mosaic in Los Angeles. I have been blessed by his vision and preaching. The sermon that profoundly moved me can be found at the following link - just click this link, scroll down the podcast list, find April 16 "Stand Against the Wind: Creativity" near the bottom on the right. Be creative and enjoy your day! Podcast > Mosaic
Thank You, Lord, for gifting me the day I heard Erwin give this message. It was a divine intersection for me and I felt Your care. May you continue to bless his ministry and those who serve with him.
Thank You, Lord, for gifting me the day I heard Erwin give this message. It was a divine intersection for me and I felt Your care. May you continue to bless his ministry and those who serve with him.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Thank You Notes - Pennies in a Jar
Last night my husband and I sat in our living room. As he held out his hand to me, I took it and felt the courseness of his fingers and skin. I looked up at the beautifully crafted ceilings above me and was very thankful for both. Though I am mindful of the time he spends making beautiful spaces out of neglected homes, I am thankful that he has something he absolutely loves to do. If I'm honest, maybe I'm a bit jealous. It means I have a bit of work to do.
But I am thankful for a good man...a real man that takes steps of faith before it is completely safe to do. And because of personal conviction he isn't afraid of getting dirty in the process. That's his way. I love him and I'm thankful for him, particularly this morning.
Lord, bless my husband this day - give him the blessing of Your wisdom and guidance, and Your strength. Amen.
But I am thankful for a good man...a real man that takes steps of faith before it is completely safe to do. And because of personal conviction he isn't afraid of getting dirty in the process. That's his way. I love him and I'm thankful for him, particularly this morning.
Lord, bless my husband this day - give him the blessing of Your wisdom and guidance, and Your strength. Amen.
Morning Gratitude
It's likely that I need to say "thank you" and express gratitude to God more than He needs to hear it. I am His unique design and told in Psalm 92:1 that "it is good to give thanks to God". Saying thank you early in the day reminds me that I am in good hands and that I already have enough.
If I rise early for this commitment, then seeing the sun rise is a promise to me that I am alive and have the opportunity to live my best life today. I can choose ahead of time how I want to interact with the circumstances and people offered to me with this new day. And if I mess up then instead of seeing failure, I will go to my Father, share my heart and ask for an opportunity to do it again, and maybe get it right.
If we live through the night and wake up to a brand new day, then how can we not say "thanks"? So thanks, Lord, for this day. May the moments and Your blessings not go unnoticed but embraced and deeply appreciated. Amen.
If I rise early for this commitment, then seeing the sun rise is a promise to me that I am alive and have the opportunity to live my best life today. I can choose ahead of time how I want to interact with the circumstances and people offered to me with this new day. And if I mess up then instead of seeing failure, I will go to my Father, share my heart and ask for an opportunity to do it again, and maybe get it right.
If we live through the night and wake up to a brand new day, then how can we not say "thanks"? So thanks, Lord, for this day. May the moments and Your blessings not go unnoticed but embraced and deeply appreciated. Amen.
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