I do not always like to write about me or my life or my past, but that is all I know anything about really, unless you would like me to write about you.... No, I thought not.
Life can just be overwhelming at times, can't it? Lately I have been very tired. It isn't that I exert so much energy into any direction in particular, but it goes in many directions these days... And when my time is divided up into pieces, nothing gets done in the way I would like it to be done.
I am writing this after an evening at church. During Tommy's bible study I almost fell asleep...on the front row. Nice. All of my energy just leaked right out of my toes onto the floor, leaving my body when I sat down. Tommy is an excellent teacher/preacher, but tonight he could have been talking about snowballs and it would not have fazed me. (Wouldn't that have been funny, though? If he ever does talk about snowballs in church, I will let you know.) Lately my body moves in slow motion if it moves at all. My blood feels like molasses.
Anyway, afterwards was play practice. Yes, we are still working on the Christmas Play and no, we do not have it nailed down yet. One of the elders in our church is Andy. Andy asked me how I was and I said that I was tired and had no energy left in me, but that God was good to give me what I need. He responded, "I have a verse for you," and then he grabbed my bible and opened it to Colossians 1:29 - "For this I toil, struggling with all His energy that He powerfully works within me." I thanked him and told him I had never noticed that verse before. The "this" Paul is writing about is that Paul might present everyone mature in Christ. He is toiling for the work Christ has called him to. You and I should be working in that way as well...with His energy working through us.
Then I sat beside Stephen, age 6, who faces some challenges every day, and we held our music together and I sang while he listened....without criticism...and I thought to myself, there is no where else I would rather be than right here with these children, singing about the birth of Christ.
I was encouraged when I least expected it and had I stayed home as I was tempted to, I would have missed it....this timely verse given to me by a fellow believer. There is power in God's word. There is love in God's people. Yes, I am still tired, but not weary, knowing He will work through me to accomplish His will. I did not come home with energy, I came home with hope...and that is much better. Hope does not disappoint.
Blessings to you all.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Monday, October 29, 2012
Wills...and Inheritance
Tommy and I met with a lawyer today to update our wills. It isn't that we are planning to leave the earth soon, but you never know and we do not want our kids to be left with questions, papers, and things undone. No one will get rich because we pass on, believe me.
Our lawyer is a friend of ours and as she was explaining what we should do, I began to think, "I hope I look more intelligent than I feel right now." I was so glad Tommy was taking notes, because even though it sounded like the English language, all I heard was the equivalent of Chinese. ( Please don't tell her how ignorant I am. Maybe she did not notice.)
We learned what we needed to do in order to make things simple for our children. I realize chances are we won't pass on together, but I decided that I want to go first if we can't go together. Maybe it will work out that way. Only the Lord knows and I have already put my request in with Him. The thing is, He does not always answer me in the way I want Him to. Is is that way with you, too?
There are some things we do hope to leave our family... a love for God and His word, and a dedication to serve Him wholeheartedly, sweet memories of fun times, and much joy. We as Christians are strangers and aliens to this earth. Our home is not here, but hereafter. Our inheritance is eternal life, everlasting joy, and no more tears or sadness, but the best part is being with our Redeemer...forever.
1 Peter 1:3-5 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5 who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
Hebrews 11:13-16 These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. 14 For people who speak thus make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. 15 If they had been thinking of that land from which they had gone out, they would have had opportunity to return. 16 But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city.
This passage is speaking of men and women of faith in scripture. My hope is to be like them... I want to finish well. I would love to share this glorious inheritance with you.
Our lawyer is a friend of ours and as she was explaining what we should do, I began to think, "I hope I look more intelligent than I feel right now." I was so glad Tommy was taking notes, because even though it sounded like the English language, all I heard was the equivalent of Chinese. ( Please don't tell her how ignorant I am. Maybe she did not notice.)
We learned what we needed to do in order to make things simple for our children. I realize chances are we won't pass on together, but I decided that I want to go first if we can't go together. Maybe it will work out that way. Only the Lord knows and I have already put my request in with Him. The thing is, He does not always answer me in the way I want Him to. Is is that way with you, too?
There are some things we do hope to leave our family... a love for God and His word, and a dedication to serve Him wholeheartedly, sweet memories of fun times, and much joy. We as Christians are strangers and aliens to this earth. Our home is not here, but hereafter. Our inheritance is eternal life, everlasting joy, and no more tears or sadness, but the best part is being with our Redeemer...forever.
1 Peter 1:3-5 3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5 who by God's power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
Hebrews 11:13-16 These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. 14 For people who speak thus make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. 15 If they had been thinking of that land from which they had gone out, they would have had opportunity to return. 16 But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city.
This passage is speaking of men and women of faith in scripture. My hope is to be like them... I want to finish well. I would love to share this glorious inheritance with you.
Friday, October 26, 2012
Always Never
I am trying to be mindful of my speech. It is amazing how often I use those two words. Always. Never. Words we say every day without really meaning them. Do you say them as much as I do? They actually make us liars so many times. Innocent words, guilty people.
They can be bullets that pierce the hearts of those we love when they are aimed at them...."You never put things back where they go" or "You always spill your drink!"
They can also be prideful, such as "I always work so hard!" or "I would never do that!" or - wait for it moms - "My kids would never do that!" (Never say that one, unless your kids are robots and you have the only control at all times...and even then be careful. - In this statement, never is used correctly.)
I am S L O W L Y learning to go back to my forgiving, patient husband and say, "Okay, you don't always leave a mess on the counter" and "Sometimes you do remember to...whatever." The positives far outweigh the negatives in our relationship. Truthfully, I learned from my grandmother to be thankful for the person you are cleaning up after. (See post entitled "Bessie") I am.
There is only one Person who can accurately uses those two words and mean them for all time.
Genesis 9:11 I establish my covenant with you, that never again shall all flesh be cut off by the waters of the flood, and never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth.
Lamentations 3:22-23 The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (HALLELUJAH!)
John 4:14 but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty forever. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.
John 10:28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.
1 Corinthians 13:8 Love never ends.
Revelation 3:5 The one who conquers will be clothed thus in white garments, and I will never blot his name out of the book of life. I will confess his name before my Father and before his angels.
Matthew 28:20 And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.
2 Corinthians 2:14 But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere.
1 Peter 3:15 but in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you;
The last verse is more of a challenge for you and me than a promise from God. Be prepared ALWAYS to defend your faith and tell others of the Hope that is within you. Never forget that.
Blessings to you today, June
They can be bullets that pierce the hearts of those we love when they are aimed at them...."You never put things back where they go" or "You always spill your drink!"
They can also be prideful, such as "I always work so hard!" or "I would never do that!" or - wait for it moms - "My kids would never do that!" (Never say that one, unless your kids are robots and you have the only control at all times...and even then be careful. - In this statement, never is used correctly.)
I am S L O W L Y learning to go back to my forgiving, patient husband and say, "Okay, you don't always leave a mess on the counter" and "Sometimes you do remember to...whatever." The positives far outweigh the negatives in our relationship. Truthfully, I learned from my grandmother to be thankful for the person you are cleaning up after. (See post entitled "Bessie") I am.
There is only one Person who can accurately uses those two words and mean them for all time.
Genesis 9:11 I establish my covenant with you, that never again shall all flesh be cut off by the waters of the flood, and never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth.
Lamentations 3:22-23 The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (HALLELUJAH!)
John 4:14 but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty forever. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.
John 10:28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.
1 Corinthians 13:8 Love never ends.
Revelation 3:5 The one who conquers will be clothed thus in white garments, and I will never blot his name out of the book of life. I will confess his name before my Father and before his angels.
Matthew 28:20 And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.
2 Corinthians 2:14 But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere.
1 Peter 3:15 but in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you;
The last verse is more of a challenge for you and me than a promise from God. Be prepared ALWAYS to defend your faith and tell others of the Hope that is within you. Never forget that.
Blessings to you today, June
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Killing Spiders
Killing them is good, right? Being female and afraid of spiders makes it monumental to even get near enough to throw something at them, much less hit them accurately, up close, and personal....without screaming. I know that you know what I mean.
I went to my mom's to cut her hair - yes, I have been cutting her hair for more than 40 years and no, I do not have a license to do so. She willingly puts her "looks" into my hands, even though there have been numerous boo boos over the years. In all this time, no one else has held a pair of scissors to her head, but she has more than once made the statement, "Oh well, it will grow." And still, she holds out for a time when I can come and cut the once dark brown now gray hairs on her aging head.
As I have told you, my mom is very near total blindness. While I was there, her stove was calling out to me to be cleaned. You know how it is once you get started cleaning...everywhere you turn, you are wiping something down. She was in the living room and we carried on conversation through the opening over her sink as I worked and she watched election news. (Will that ever end?) As I was leaving the kitchen, I made one last decision to clean a dark corner.
There they were...creepy crawlies. No insect should have so many legs. I think that is what unnerves me most. They were not very big...they just existed in a place forbidden to them - my mom's house. What to do, what to do. Reaching for spray cleaner, I took aim...I figured she should not be exposed to bug spray...and gave them my best shot. Now, where do things run when chased from a corner? Right straight out! I grabbed some paper towels and prayed. You are probably thinking "you prayed?" Yes, I did. A million thoughts filled my head about fears and conquering them and always asking Tommy to be my hero and fight my battles with icky things like this. But alas, he was not there...and I was not about to ask my mom to do it, for fear one might escape unnoticed. (I know you are shaming me at that very thought right now, but she always killed them when I was little.) No, it was totally up to me. I cringed with every blow and even shrieked alittle, but finally the deed was done.
God made me grow up and be big. I have had a few harried moments over the last 24 hours. I checked out at the grocery store... without my wallet:( I got lost today and called Tommy more than once.(He is my GPS device.) I forgot a meal that was left at church that I was supposed to deliver...and never did. Me and my new phone have not made friends yet...I don't think it likes me very much. So killing spiders has made me more than a conqueror. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13 This is the verse I quoted to my mom after the battle.
What a silly application to a mighty verse...but so appropriate for any fear or opposition or challenge I face. My God is real and His word true...and my battles are His battles...even the tiny ones.
I went to my mom's to cut her hair - yes, I have been cutting her hair for more than 40 years and no, I do not have a license to do so. She willingly puts her "looks" into my hands, even though there have been numerous boo boos over the years. In all this time, no one else has held a pair of scissors to her head, but she has more than once made the statement, "Oh well, it will grow." And still, she holds out for a time when I can come and cut the once dark brown now gray hairs on her aging head.
As I have told you, my mom is very near total blindness. While I was there, her stove was calling out to me to be cleaned. You know how it is once you get started cleaning...everywhere you turn, you are wiping something down. She was in the living room and we carried on conversation through the opening over her sink as I worked and she watched election news. (Will that ever end?) As I was leaving the kitchen, I made one last decision to clean a dark corner.
There they were...creepy crawlies. No insect should have so many legs. I think that is what unnerves me most. They were not very big...they just existed in a place forbidden to them - my mom's house. What to do, what to do. Reaching for spray cleaner, I took aim...I figured she should not be exposed to bug spray...and gave them my best shot. Now, where do things run when chased from a corner? Right straight out! I grabbed some paper towels and prayed. You are probably thinking "you prayed?" Yes, I did. A million thoughts filled my head about fears and conquering them and always asking Tommy to be my hero and fight my battles with icky things like this. But alas, he was not there...and I was not about to ask my mom to do it, for fear one might escape unnoticed. (I know you are shaming me at that very thought right now, but she always killed them when I was little.) No, it was totally up to me. I cringed with every blow and even shrieked alittle, but finally the deed was done.
God made me grow up and be big. I have had a few harried moments over the last 24 hours. I checked out at the grocery store... without my wallet:( I got lost today and called Tommy more than once.(He is my GPS device.) I forgot a meal that was left at church that I was supposed to deliver...and never did. Me and my new phone have not made friends yet...I don't think it likes me very much. So killing spiders has made me more than a conqueror. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13 This is the verse I quoted to my mom after the battle.
What a silly application to a mighty verse...but so appropriate for any fear or opposition or challenge I face. My God is real and His word true...and my battles are His battles...even the tiny ones.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Desires Changed
"Hast thou not seen how thy desires e'er have been
Granted in what He ordaineth?" a line from the hymn "Praise To The Lord"
"Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4
He ordains all that comes to pass. Good, and good for you if you love and trust Him. I know - how can I possibly say that? How can that be true? So many wrongs are done, so much pain, loss, and sorrow.
Injustices everywhere.
All I know is that in the midst of all we call "bad," we can experience the goodness of God. We can have His peace, His joy. We as humans, desire so many things. We want it all. But, when we line up under the will of God and seek to please Him with our lives, He changes those desires...as a loving parent, pointing to not just the 'good,' but the 'BEST!' God's best isn't found in earthly possessions, or even in someone else. When He changes our hearts' desires to His desires for us, then we become content to "make our requests known to Him" and trust Him to do as He knows best. This results in peace. Submission isn't a means to an end. It cannot be faked...we are talking about Someone who can read our hearts' every intent. No fooling Him.
"Now my heart's desire is to know You more.
To be found in You and known as Yours,
To possess by faith what I could not earn -
All surpassing gift of righteousness...
Knowing You, Jesus, knowing You
There is no greater thing.
You're my all, You're the best,
You're my joy, my righteousness, and I love you, Lord." from the song, "Knowing You."
We say that some things never change, but they do. Everything can/does...except God. He cannot change and remain true to His nature. Seek to be known as His.
Granted in what He ordaineth?" a line from the hymn "Praise To The Lord"
"Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." Psalm 37:4
He ordains all that comes to pass. Good, and good for you if you love and trust Him. I know - how can I possibly say that? How can that be true? So many wrongs are done, so much pain, loss, and sorrow.
Injustices everywhere.
All I know is that in the midst of all we call "bad," we can experience the goodness of God. We can have His peace, His joy. We as humans, desire so many things. We want it all. But, when we line up under the will of God and seek to please Him with our lives, He changes those desires...as a loving parent, pointing to not just the 'good,' but the 'BEST!' God's best isn't found in earthly possessions, or even in someone else. When He changes our hearts' desires to His desires for us, then we become content to "make our requests known to Him" and trust Him to do as He knows best. This results in peace. Submission isn't a means to an end. It cannot be faked...we are talking about Someone who can read our hearts' every intent. No fooling Him.
"Now my heart's desire is to know You more.
To be found in You and known as Yours,
To possess by faith what I could not earn -
All surpassing gift of righteousness...
Knowing You, Jesus, knowing You
There is no greater thing.
You're my all, You're the best,
You're my joy, my righteousness, and I love you, Lord." from the song, "Knowing You."
We say that some things never change, but they do. Everything can/does...except God. He cannot change and remain true to His nature. Seek to be known as His.
Saturday, October 20, 2012
October 31st, the "H" Word
It poses a problem, this last day of October, for many Christians in the world. Some would argue that point, but I have heard this holiday discussed over and over again...with varying outcomes and opinions. Okay, don't tell anybody, but when my kids were little, we had spook houses in our garage each year and my brothers would dress up in costumes they called "train wreck" or "car crash". (These are grown men, mind you) You can imagine how they looked...neither a pretty sight. While we were operating the haunted house in the garage, our home was filled with family and friends just enjoying being together.
I was always the tour guide. I have to say we really did love it then, but scaring children on purpose for any amount of time is just wrong...and wrong tends to lead to more wrong.
Things changed. Children were being hurt on Halloween. The evil in man became bolder each year and the focus turned to the dark, dark side. It made us want to quit any kind of acknowledgement of that day. The "H" word became taboo. I would turn my porch light off and put a sign on my door, "No trick or treating, please." For a time, even our city banned going door to door.
As my kids entered their teenage years, we opened our home to their friends for a safe place to hang out on that night. They watched movies, ate, played ping pong, and just had fun. If children came to the door, the teenagers handed out pencils or candy.
I have decided that now, when children come to my house on October 31st, if I am home, I will give them candy. They just want candy. It does not mean that I want anything to do with evil, but that I want to have a relationship with those that the Lord brings my way. A dark house with an unfriendly sign will tell no one to come to Christ. A well-lit safe house where treats are handed out with a smile and a kind word just might be remembered. I want to be approachable.
Romans 12:21 "Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."
God made October 31st and He made pumpkins. Man takes good and twists it into bad. Evil is going to be evil any given day of the year. I refuse to peg a day and forever call it "forbidden". Changing the focus from fear to love makes a difference. Here are some suggestions...just in case...
1. Hand out water to the parents and meet them.
2. Give pencils, little books, or small party favors - as to prevent sugar overload and comas.
3. Sit outside, instead of waiting for people to come to your door.
4. Have music playing...no, not creepy sounds.
Okay, you get the idea. You will not be promoting anything but kindness and a chance to share the love of God.
So, let's put October 31st back on the calendar. It's always been there you know. God made that day. How will you treat it? Will you look for ways to share Christ in every situation He allows?
It's just a thought.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Saved From....What?
I was listening to R.C. Sproul speak on the radio a few years back. He posed a question that made me think. He asked, "When God saves us, what does He save us from?" Hmm. I wanted to get this right. After all, I had been a Christian for so many years, surely I knew the answer. Let's see....Hell comes to mind, and my sins of course...heard that all my life. He talked awhile longer, without revealing a clue. Well then, I must be right.
Finally he arrived to the "meat" of his talk. That is what he often does. He asks a question to get your brain going, and then quietly blows you away with his answer. God saves man from God He saves us from Himself! This is love...because in His Being are not only mercy, goodness, righteousness, but also justice, impartiality, and holiness. Holiness and sinfulness cannot dwell in the same place. It's like trying to put light and dark in the same room. The light always dispells the darkness. (Love that thought.)
The bible tells us that one day, God will pour out His wrath on unbelievers. God offers man salvation from that...from Himself on that day. Those that reject Jesus Christ as the only Savior, will forever be separated from God and all of His goodness...did I say forever? There is no goodness without Him.
This truth opens the door for so many other truths. I encourage you to read your bible...and find out just Who this eternal, unchanging God is. He is worth knowing.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Several of my friends and family told me about Pinterest. They were all excited about it and wanted me to join because I would just love it....this went on for months. I am not really a joiner. I am not on Facebook - yes, it is true - though I was years ago. I get a new cell phone totally against my will, kicking and screaming, as it takes me ions to learn anything hi-tech.
When I decided to blog, I was told by Mr. Google that I had to do it through Facebook or Twitter...talk about a ridiculous name. Determined to stay off of Facebook, I signed up for Twitter. Have no idea what to do with it and don't care a hill of beans, but it was a means to an end. Not really worthy of a post though, because I know absolutely zero about it...just that people follow people and read what they have to say about...whatever.
When did we as a society decide it was "cool" and "in" to voice our opinions to the masses? (Yes, I know that is exactly what I am doing right now. Just be quiet.) I can get myself into trouble on any given day all by myself...WHY in the world would I want it broadcast for the world to see? Believe me, I have read some self-revealing stuff on the internet.
ANYWAY, back to Pinterest. Finally I joined. Then it took me another month to take the time to figure it out. I picked a few things I liked. All of a sudden I am getting notices that some stranger likes what I picked. Really? As if I made some huge wonderful decision to choose wisely. It made me laugh. Whoever Mr. or Mrs. Pinterest is, they have pushed the right button and won the cupie doll. Women want to hear that what they want/like/love is also wanted/liked/loved by someone else. This idea encourages them to pick more things and get more compliments via the automated emails of affirmation. And again, people follow people...but I am not sure why yet. Guess it is flattering to be followed. I wouldn't know.
BUT I HAVE TO SAY - it is like looking at a free magazine. You can get ideas on how to fix things, make things, change things in your house...for free. The internet can be a total time waster, that is for sure. But if you are feeling domestic and get a hankering to cook, sew, decorate, make crafts with your kids/grandkids, etc., then Pinterest may be the answer for you. It can actually take the place of shopping and spending money you don't really have at the moment, anyway...plus someone somewhere will always like what you like and Mrs. P will tell you so. Kind of nice.
When I decided to blog, I was told by Mr. Google that I had to do it through Facebook or Twitter...talk about a ridiculous name. Determined to stay off of Facebook, I signed up for Twitter. Have no idea what to do with it and don't care a hill of beans, but it was a means to an end. Not really worthy of a post though, because I know absolutely zero about it...just that people follow people and read what they have to say about...whatever.
When did we as a society decide it was "cool" and "in" to voice our opinions to the masses? (Yes, I know that is exactly what I am doing right now. Just be quiet.) I can get myself into trouble on any given day all by myself...WHY in the world would I want it broadcast for the world to see? Believe me, I have read some self-revealing stuff on the internet.
ANYWAY, back to Pinterest. Finally I joined. Then it took me another month to take the time to figure it out. I picked a few things I liked. All of a sudden I am getting notices that some stranger likes what I picked. Really? As if I made some huge wonderful decision to choose wisely. It made me laugh. Whoever Mr. or Mrs. Pinterest is, they have pushed the right button and won the cupie doll. Women want to hear that what they want/like/love is also wanted/liked/loved by someone else. This idea encourages them to pick more things and get more compliments via the automated emails of affirmation. And again, people follow people...but I am not sure why yet. Guess it is flattering to be followed. I wouldn't know.
BUT I HAVE TO SAY - it is like looking at a free magazine. You can get ideas on how to fix things, make things, change things in your house...for free. The internet can be a total time waster, that is for sure. But if you are feeling domestic and get a hankering to cook, sew, decorate, make crafts with your kids/grandkids, etc., then Pinterest may be the answer for you. It can actually take the place of shopping and spending money you don't really have at the moment, anyway...plus someone somewhere will always like what you like and Mrs. P will tell you so. Kind of nice.
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Moo Moo and Bear
These are much loved animals. I am surprised that Bear has managed to stay alive all these years...over 50 to be exact. Just look at him. His eye is missing and the other one looks out of whack...and where are his nose and mouth and hair? Secrets impossible to discover, simply because I can't remember, except I think I loved the hair off.
What I do remember about him makes him very dear to me. He was the perfect teddy bear. His arms were made as if they were ready to hug you. We hugged alot. His legs folded easily so that he could sit beside me and be my friend. Once, when I was little, I left him out in the rain and he got soaked. My nurturing skills took over and I wrapped him in a towel and just held him like a mom would a child. He did not have a name, just Teddy, I guess or "Bear" as he is called now. You would think that my grandkids would be scared of him - he is kind of creepy looking. But they love him as I did. I tell them he is fragile and they must be gentle.
Moo Moo came late to the party. I bought her years ago, when I used to keep my niece, Molly. She absolutely loved this little cow. We did not know if she was a girl or a boy, so I fixed that with a pink ribbon. Molly is now over ten, but still comes to see Moo Moo often. Of all the toys at my house to play with, they all want the bear and the cow...and I don't know HOW it happens, but that pink ribbon NEVER stays on Moo Moo very long. I find it everywhere. (Maybe she parties while I am asleep and removes it.) That is what actually prompted this blog...finding that ribbon in the living room and tying it back around her neck. Who knows what these animals do while I am not looking?
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
Play Practice
We began practice for the Christmas play tonight at church. It is always such fun as the kids gather to sing and get in the mood for the holidays. They really love it. They often move me to tears...which isn't hard to do. I will be writing another post after the performance on December 9th. We are not a large church, close to two hundred, eighty of which are munchkins. Munchkins range in age from birth to eighteen. The ones in the play are ages two to twelve.
In the past, we have had some mishaps and some funny moments. We try to keep those from happening, but somehow.... One year, someone wanted to be the dinosaur in the play...must have been around the time Jurassic Park was released. Didn't know there was a dinosaur in Bethlehem. Another child...my grandson who will remain anonymous...wanted to be Woody. Again, I blame Hollywood for these notions.
During our very first play twelve years ago, one of the shepherds got stage fright and sat in my lap through the whole play while I directed. I think that was the year that one of the sheep decided to rock the cradle that baby Jesus was in. During our last play, a crown fell down around the neck of one of the wise men. You never know.
I always tell Mary and Joseph that no matter what goes on around them, they must remain silent and try not to respond to what anyone else is doing, even if they are misbehaving. So far, each year Mary and Joseph have remained calm in the midst of chaos...and baby Jesus unscathed.
So I look forward to these Wednesday nights. They bless me. I will get back to you on this.....
In the past, we have had some mishaps and some funny moments. We try to keep those from happening, but somehow.... One year, someone wanted to be the dinosaur in the play...must have been around the time Jurassic Park was released. Didn't know there was a dinosaur in Bethlehem. Another child...my grandson who will remain anonymous...wanted to be Woody. Again, I blame Hollywood for these notions.
During our very first play twelve years ago, one of the shepherds got stage fright and sat in my lap through the whole play while I directed. I think that was the year that one of the sheep decided to rock the cradle that baby Jesus was in. During our last play, a crown fell down around the neck of one of the wise men. You never know.
I always tell Mary and Joseph that no matter what goes on around them, they must remain silent and try not to respond to what anyone else is doing, even if they are misbehaving. So far, each year Mary and Joseph have remained calm in the midst of chaos...and baby Jesus unscathed.
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| Rehearsal in 2010 |
Monday, October 8, 2012
Jana
I think it would be bold and braggish of me to write about my children as if they were geniuses, so just take it from me...that they are. I can say that. It is my daughter that I would like to tell you about. She is literally a gift from God that we never saw coming. No one did, but God. I did not give birth to her, though she came to us through much pain.
Her father was Tommy's brother, Ricky. Ricky was killed in 1993 by an angry employee. He had been raising his two children, Jana (10) and Denny (9) on his own. Almost immediately they became ours. Worlds changed forever. Death does that.
Though everyone went through a long adjustment period, God showed me His hand through it all. Jana, the daughter I never had, burst into our home bringing much joy with her. She also brought the biggest change...tighter modesty rules, respect for bedroom privacy, and a willing helper in the household chores. She was a rare blessing! I would be working in the garden and she would rush out, eager to dig with me. If I was cleaning in the kitchen, she took the dirtiest job. Who was this person? Believe me, the boys all had chores - including Denny - but no one took them on like she did. My kindred spirit!
I always thought that if I had a girl, she would have all these cute hairstyles. When it came to actually doing it, I was all thumbs. The basic-est of hairdos sufficed until she could do her own. I found out quickly that my new daughter was bizarrely creative, to say the least. She wanted to wear Doc Martin boots with her dresses. She would stick her hair up with bobby pins into the messiest look possible. I was undone. Again, who was this person?
She came to know the Lord in her teenage years - another life changing event. Her desire to know Him and love Him grew. Tommy and I always knew she had wings on her feet. She asked us one day after high school graduation if she could go with Operation Mobilization for a two year commitment around the world on a ship that shared the gospel in many ports. "Absolutely not" we said without hesitation. Period. The end...but it was not the end. She never asked again. We taught our kids to make appeals to God to change our minds on any given issue. She did, without telling us. And then He did...change our minds. How does God do that?
Anyway, four months later, we decided to let her go. Imagine, teenagers and twenty something year olds, boys and girls together on a ship for two years....WERE WE CRAZY? Yes, but no. They have the strictest of rules in regards to the boy/girl thing. For some reason, we trusted that. It was during her second year of service that Matt asked permission to see Jana personally. She had to be in agreement as well. So Tommy and I went to England, flew to Ireland, and sailed with the ship to Scotland, in order to meet this Matt. We liked him instantly. (We still do, by the way) Have you ever been on a ship with 300+ young people? It was wonderful...and probably needs its own post one day.
Anyway, Jana and Matt now live in Chicago. Matt is attending Moody Bible Institute, and Jana is raising their four children to love the Lord. My blood may not flow through her veins, but His blood flows through us both, which is even better. He takes the worst situations and makes them so very good, when they are given to Him. We are living proof.
Her father was Tommy's brother, Ricky. Ricky was killed in 1993 by an angry employee. He had been raising his two children, Jana (10) and Denny (9) on his own. Almost immediately they became ours. Worlds changed forever. Death does that.
Though everyone went through a long adjustment period, God showed me His hand through it all. Jana, the daughter I never had, burst into our home bringing much joy with her. She also brought the biggest change...tighter modesty rules, respect for bedroom privacy, and a willing helper in the household chores. She was a rare blessing! I would be working in the garden and she would rush out, eager to dig with me. If I was cleaning in the kitchen, she took the dirtiest job. Who was this person? Believe me, the boys all had chores - including Denny - but no one took them on like she did. My kindred spirit!
I always thought that if I had a girl, she would have all these cute hairstyles. When it came to actually doing it, I was all thumbs. The basic-est of hairdos sufficed until she could do her own. I found out quickly that my new daughter was bizarrely creative, to say the least. She wanted to wear Doc Martin boots with her dresses. She would stick her hair up with bobby pins into the messiest look possible. I was undone. Again, who was this person?
She came to know the Lord in her teenage years - another life changing event. Her desire to know Him and love Him grew. Tommy and I always knew she had wings on her feet. She asked us one day after high school graduation if she could go with Operation Mobilization for a two year commitment around the world on a ship that shared the gospel in many ports. "Absolutely not" we said without hesitation. Period. The end...but it was not the end. She never asked again. We taught our kids to make appeals to God to change our minds on any given issue. She did, without telling us. And then He did...change our minds. How does God do that?
Anyway, four months later, we decided to let her go. Imagine, teenagers and twenty something year olds, boys and girls together on a ship for two years....WERE WE CRAZY? Yes, but no. They have the strictest of rules in regards to the boy/girl thing. For some reason, we trusted that. It was during her second year of service that Matt asked permission to see Jana personally. She had to be in agreement as well. So Tommy and I went to England, flew to Ireland, and sailed with the ship to Scotland, in order to meet this Matt. We liked him instantly. (We still do, by the way) Have you ever been on a ship with 300+ young people? It was wonderful...and probably needs its own post one day.
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| Did I mention that she is beautiful? Mommy and TJ |
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| Ricky, Levi, and Addie |
Sunday, October 7, 2012
My Tree
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| My treeless backyard |
What I am about to share with you happened about five years ago. Time flies and you would think I would have done something about it by now, but no. (It will go on my list for the forty-second time.) Ever since we moved into this house, we have had tree trouble. We planted a silver maple in the middle of the front yard, and it got carpenter ants and died. I decided to leave it bare as the kids would use our yard for a ball field. Our house sits back on the lot, making the front yard bigger than the back.
I planted a small Texas Umbrella tree in the back yard. It was only about two feet high. These trees are supposed to grow quickly and it did. In two years, it was about thirty feet high. I was thrilled. I bought a baby swing to hang from a branch for my grandkids to swing in. It shaded my house and I pictured many happy climbings for years to come in that tree.
The twins were little at the time, and I had gone with my daughter-in-law, Shannon to take them for a check-up. We were on our way home when Tommy called me. "Why is all this wood in front of our house?" He asked. I told him I had no idea what he was talking about.
After a few minutes, he called back. A man had stopped his truck, gotten out of it, and proceeded to apologize to Tommy. It seems that his tree company had been hired to cut down the tree on North Park Ridge. (We live on South Park Ridge) Same kind of tree. Tommy told him it was no problem, though the man offered to pay us back somehow. Then he called me and told me the news. Shannon thought someone had died. I was so tearfully mad. That was MY tree!! How could he have let that happen!!
Fortunately for the man, we were miles away. As I drove home - sobbing like a baby - God began to speak to my heart to forgive. I did not want to.
Tommy warned the man that there was a problem, after all. (I am sure he was afraid of what a maniacal woman might say when she got home.) I wanted him to pay us the 800 dollars he would have gotten for cutting down the right tree. I wanted him to plant us a new tree. I wanted SOMETHING. But inside me, I could feel that I was to ask for no recompense. Really, God?
When I got home, I called ___________ Tree Service ( as he had already escaped while he could) and talked to the man. He wanted to do something for me. He begged me...really, he did. I told him there was a Crepe Myrtle running amuck at the other end of the yard and he could get rid of it for me. He was happy to oblige.
Okay, remember what I was supposed to do? Nothing, but forgive. Well, that Crepe Myrtle has grown back, rowdier than ever. It is a gentle reminder of all that happened on that day. I have not replanted. It is on my list....again.
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| My reminder...of - oh, so many things. |
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Whimsies
Something written in this font
should be titled “Enchanted.” Don’t you
love this? It is fun and playful. So let’s talk about whimsy. It is the playful part of us that makes
little sense. You are ageless when
whimsical…from the 2 year old, wearing hats and playing dress-up, to the aged
who…are wearing hats and playing dress-up.
Whimsy is dancing ballet with
your children/grandchildren in the living room.
It is making robots out of playdough.
It is playing in the rain, singing off key on purpose, jumping into the
swimming pool fully clothed. Haven’t you
ever had a whimsical moment?
Try it, once in a while. Don’t stay there, though…they might lock you up with all the other 'enchanteds'...but it wouldn't be boring!
Funny how a font can inspire. Time for a chocolate. Whimsy.
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| Tea Party in pjs on Grammy's bed |
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| Items from my printer's tray. |
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Job
I have been reading Job lately. Each time I read it, I see new truths. That's the amazing thing about God's word. It is alive...always revealing inner man to outward man. Only the Creator knows our hearts...the secret places that stay hidden from view...just not His view. In the first chapter of Job, we learn how much he owned, that he was righteous, and that he was the greatest man in the east. (I always thought he was just a farmer with many blessings. That is putting it mildly.) The greatest man in the east. Huge.
So, God tells us right away that Job had it all...and he loved God to boot. Enter Satan. He goes before the LORD and the LORD asks him where he has been and he basically says he's been wandering the earth. God asks him if he has considered Job - now isn't THAT like painting a big target on Job's back!? He grants Satan permission to torment, and havoc ensues. The verse - "to whom much was given, of him much will be required" (Luke 12:48 - Even though this reference is in the New Testament, the principle applies to all) and the verse - "the Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord." (Job 1:21) come to mind here.
Job's friends are sympathetic at first. They sit with him and are quiet for days, and then as if they are ready to be done with this, they begin to question Job. Though what they say does not seem so 'out of order' in the beginning, it becomes as nails on a chalkboard after a while. They are no longer of any comfort to him. Their words only pierce and accuse...without real answers, but with alot of suppositions. Have I ever been that kind of friend? I fear so. God forgive me. You forgive me too, please.
Can you imagine? The greatest man in the east, brought low in public humiliation. Yes, every one of us would have an opinion as to the cause. Remember, God has seen it all happen...allowed it all to happen. So, it isn't a "curse", but more of a test. How quick we are to judge things we do not understand. Surely Job's pride - if he had any - is brought to nothing. Still he does not reject his LORD. Job 13:15 "Though He slay me, I will hope in Him..." (May my faith be so strong!)
Job 23:8-14 8 "Behold, I go forward, but he is not there, and backward, but I do not perceive him; 9 on the left hand when he is working, I do not behold him; he turns to the right hand, but I do not see him. 10 But he knows the way that I take; when he has tried me, I shall come out as gold. 11 My foot has held fast to his steps; I have kept his way and have not turned aside. 12 I have not departed from the commandment of his lips; I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my portion of food. 13 But he is unchangeable, and who can turn him back? What he desires, that he does. 14 For he will complete what he appoints for me, and many such things are in his mind.
See Job's declaration of God's sovereignty! He yields all to Him in acknowledgement of His power to do as He pleases. It is always for our good if we love Him! So be of good cheer and do not faint!
Job responds to each accuser more than once.
Job 21:3 - "Bear with me, and I will speak, and after I have spoken, mock on." I cannot help but smile at this verse. Can't you just see him? As if he already knows that nothing he says is going to stop his friends from rebuking him. "Mock on" just sounds so sarcastically funny to me.
But wait, the best of Job is yet to come.
Back and forth, back and forth Job debates them. So far, God has been silent. Not absent, just silent. He is watching all of this...kind of like when your friends are talking about you and for you and they ignore the fact that you are standing right there. Finally we come to Chapters 38 - 41. God speaks...BIG. You MUST read those chapters. Anyone who has ever asked God, "WHY?" needs to read those chapters. I will not write the whole passage here, but only a few samples.
Job 38:4-11 4 "Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. 5 Who determined its measurements- surely you know! Or who stretched the line upon it? 6 On what were its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone, 7 when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy? 8 "Or who shut in the sea with doors when it burst out from the womb, 9 when I made clouds its garment and thick darkness its swaddling band, 10 and prescribed limits for it and set bars and doors, 11 and said, 'Thus far shall you come, and no farther, and here shall your proud waves be stayed'?
Job 39:26-29 26 "Is it by your understanding that the hawk soars and spreads his wings toward the south? 27 Is it at your command that the eagle mounts up and makes his nest on high? 28 On the rock he dwells and makes his home, on the rocky crag and stronghold. 29 From there he spies out the prey; his eyes behold it afar off.
Job feebly speaks. Job 40:4-5 4 "Behold, I am of small account; what shall I answer you? I lay my hand on my mouth. 5 I have spoken once, and I will not answer; twice, but I will proceed no further." There are times when we should just "Be still and know that He is God." This is one of those times. I am going to practice putting my hand over my mouth more.
Job 41:10-11 Who then is he who can stand before me? 11 Who has first given to me, that I should repay him? Whatever is under the whole heaven is mine.
And in Chapter 42, Job humbly answers and repents. Verses 1 - 6. Then Job answered the LORD and said: 2 "I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted. 3 'Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge?' Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand, things too wonderful for me, which I did not know. 4 'Hear, and I will speak; I will question you, and you make it known to me.' 5 I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees you; 6 therefore I despise myself, and repent in dust and ashes."
God then addresses his friends and restores Job's fortunes...double what he had before.
I know this is a long post...but Job is worth reading. There are so many lessons and if you look closely, you will find yourself on every page. Read Job. Some argue about its time of origin. Some say it is the oldest book written and some say it was written right after Genesis and some say after David was King of Israel. I personally, have no idea...I'm just glad it is there for me to read. (Sorry, I did not have a picture of Job to add to this post:)
Key verse..Job 28:28 "And he said to man, 'Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.'"
So, God tells us right away that Job had it all...and he loved God to boot. Enter Satan. He goes before the LORD and the LORD asks him where he has been and he basically says he's been wandering the earth. God asks him if he has considered Job - now isn't THAT like painting a big target on Job's back!? He grants Satan permission to torment, and havoc ensues. The verse - "to whom much was given, of him much will be required" (Luke 12:48 - Even though this reference is in the New Testament, the principle applies to all) and the verse - "the Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord." (Job 1:21) come to mind here.
Job's friends are sympathetic at first. They sit with him and are quiet for days, and then as if they are ready to be done with this, they begin to question Job. Though what they say does not seem so 'out of order' in the beginning, it becomes as nails on a chalkboard after a while. They are no longer of any comfort to him. Their words only pierce and accuse...without real answers, but with alot of suppositions. Have I ever been that kind of friend? I fear so. God forgive me. You forgive me too, please.
Can you imagine? The greatest man in the east, brought low in public humiliation. Yes, every one of us would have an opinion as to the cause. Remember, God has seen it all happen...allowed it all to happen. So, it isn't a "curse", but more of a test. How quick we are to judge things we do not understand. Surely Job's pride - if he had any - is brought to nothing. Still he does not reject his LORD. Job 13:15 "Though He slay me, I will hope in Him..." (May my faith be so strong!)
Job 23:8-14 8 "Behold, I go forward, but he is not there, and backward, but I do not perceive him; 9 on the left hand when he is working, I do not behold him; he turns to the right hand, but I do not see him. 10 But he knows the way that I take; when he has tried me, I shall come out as gold. 11 My foot has held fast to his steps; I have kept his way and have not turned aside. 12 I have not departed from the commandment of his lips; I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my portion of food. 13 But he is unchangeable, and who can turn him back? What he desires, that he does. 14 For he will complete what he appoints for me, and many such things are in his mind.
See Job's declaration of God's sovereignty! He yields all to Him in acknowledgement of His power to do as He pleases. It is always for our good if we love Him! So be of good cheer and do not faint!
Job responds to each accuser more than once.
Job 21:3 - "Bear with me, and I will speak, and after I have spoken, mock on." I cannot help but smile at this verse. Can't you just see him? As if he already knows that nothing he says is going to stop his friends from rebuking him. "Mock on" just sounds so sarcastically funny to me.
But wait, the best of Job is yet to come.
Back and forth, back and forth Job debates them. So far, God has been silent. Not absent, just silent. He is watching all of this...kind of like when your friends are talking about you and for you and they ignore the fact that you are standing right there. Finally we come to Chapters 38 - 41. God speaks...BIG. You MUST read those chapters. Anyone who has ever asked God, "WHY?" needs to read those chapters. I will not write the whole passage here, but only a few samples.
Job 38:4-11 4 "Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. 5 Who determined its measurements- surely you know! Or who stretched the line upon it? 6 On what were its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone, 7 when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy? 8 "Or who shut in the sea with doors when it burst out from the womb, 9 when I made clouds its garment and thick darkness its swaddling band, 10 and prescribed limits for it and set bars and doors, 11 and said, 'Thus far shall you come, and no farther, and here shall your proud waves be stayed'?
Job 39:26-29 26 "Is it by your understanding that the hawk soars and spreads his wings toward the south? 27 Is it at your command that the eagle mounts up and makes his nest on high? 28 On the rock he dwells and makes his home, on the rocky crag and stronghold. 29 From there he spies out the prey; his eyes behold it afar off.
Job feebly speaks. Job 40:4-5 4 "Behold, I am of small account; what shall I answer you? I lay my hand on my mouth. 5 I have spoken once, and I will not answer; twice, but I will proceed no further." There are times when we should just "Be still and know that He is God." This is one of those times. I am going to practice putting my hand over my mouth more.
Job 41:10-11 Who then is he who can stand before me? 11 Who has first given to me, that I should repay him? Whatever is under the whole heaven is mine.
And in Chapter 42, Job humbly answers and repents. Verses 1 - 6. Then Job answered the LORD and said: 2 "I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted. 3 'Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge?' Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand, things too wonderful for me, which I did not know. 4 'Hear, and I will speak; I will question you, and you make it known to me.' 5 I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees you; 6 therefore I despise myself, and repent in dust and ashes."
God then addresses his friends and restores Job's fortunes...double what he had before.
I know this is a long post...but Job is worth reading. There are so many lessons and if you look closely, you will find yourself on every page. Read Job. Some argue about its time of origin. Some say it is the oldest book written and some say it was written right after Genesis and some say after David was King of Israel. I personally, have no idea...I'm just glad it is there for me to read. (Sorry, I did not have a picture of Job to add to this post:)
Key verse..Job 28:28 "And he said to man, 'Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.'"
Monday, October 1, 2012
Harvesting
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| Pumpkin Land in Orange City, IA |
We all are, aren't we? We are at God's mercy in our everyday tasks. If you believe in a sovereign God - as I do - then you know that He sees it all and nothing slips by without His knowing it. Otherwise, He would not be God. He is holy and He is good.
Think about the farmer for a moment. He toils like little of us do. His job is enormous. Try buying groceries without him. We are so dependent on this man we most likely will never know. We cannot live without his work...unless we grow our own. (We did that for a few years..it is a tedious task that cannot be neglected....so we quit.) We love farmers who work hard for us.
How 'taken for granted' he must feel. Travelling up through Kansas and Iowa, there are farms galore. What is really amazing to me is how neat they are....blocked off in acres of different crops, and with lines so straight. Okay, I know they have machines that do those things, but those machines do not run by themselves. Kudos to the pioneer farmer who had nothing but a mule and a sack full of seeds. What a rough, unappreciated, and often underpaid job he has chosen.
Still he waits - on our behalf - for his crop to produce and be ready to harvest...and we benefit. I know we pay a pretty penny sometimes and we have the option of ignoring the higher priced items, but we would have no choice at all without the farmer.
There is another type of harvesting as well...a spiritual harvest. We can be a part of that. We share the gospel...the good news that God so loved the world that He sent His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him will never perish, but have eternal life. John 3:16 Then God does the harvesting. We plant the seeds of truth and God does the rest. It isn't up to us to save souls. That is His job and He does it like we never could. So let's be farmers...planting seeds of truth found in God's word...and see what our Father, the Farmer, the Great Harvester will do.
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