I haven’t written for awhile because I couldn’t get into my account. Well, it took some finagling and I’m back!
We have so many passwords in our life. There is one we don’t need to memorize and that is opening the Bible! Wherever you are, you can pop it open, or continue reading for a weekly study or scripture that inspires you!
There are no locked doors, windows or spaces in the heart of God. There are no necessary passwords, keys or secret phrases. If you are in need of pure, forgiving, loving and mercy; just call His Name.
How many times have you heard “Let go, let God”? I’ve heard it plenty in my life and I may follow through with that sage advice 50% of the time! Letting go is often referred to “closure,” another word which basically means time to heal, move on, let go.
Recently I experienced the lifting of sadness and grief by giving my sister her final resting place. It was cathartic on so many levels. I know that God isn’t a magician, but sometimes it’s almost magical how the pieces fall into place; that He orchestrated. Serene, calm and quiet – my soul is healing.
“Letting go” is pretty hard for some of us. We are control freaks, and we hang onto this trait with all of our might. It’s a literal tug-of-war with God. He doesn’t like it, and we don’t either. But it continues. Perhaps this week I will be thankful for His saving grace in my life and prayer to learn how to loosen the reins.
Psalm 16: 7-8 The wise counsel God gives when I’m awake is confirmed by my sleeping heart. Day and night I’ll stick with God; I’ve got a good thing going and I’m not letting go.
Today is my sister’s birthday in heaven. She passed away in 2020. It’s been a hard loss and I’ve written about it frequently. Today I have seen two butterflies attempting to get my attention; I feel they are her spirit visiting.
I am standing in the grace of God, healing the pain of grief, allowing me to look forward a little bit.
No matter the circumstance, God is always here. In Him, we may find comfort.
Psalm 34:1 I will praise the Lord no matter what happens. I will constantly speak of his glories and grace.
John 14:27 “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn’t fragile like the peace the world gives. So don’t be troubled or afraid.
It’s sometimes surprising what God puts on my heart to write. I know very little about Indigenous People, and if at all, perhaps Aborigines, or Native Americans. And still, it’s limited knowledge.
Now comes the tricky part; where does God want to lead in this post? We are all human beings, but many have lived in poverty, generational or “one paycheck away from being homeless.” Perhaps born on a reservation without the ability for a better life.
From the United Nations, I found very valuable information:
Culture and Knowledge
Indigenous peoples are the holders of unique languages, knowledge systems and beliefs and possess invaluable knowledge of practices for the sustainable management of natural resources. They have a special relation to and use of their traditional land. Their ancestral land has a fundamental importance for their collective physical and cultural survival as peoples. Indigenous peoples hold their own diverse concepts of development, based on their traditional values, visions, needs and priorities
Over the last 33 years, The Indigenous World has documented an increasing trend towards harassment and criminalisation of indigenous peoples and communities.
Perhaps this is a reminder to pray for ALL people, not just those on your prayer lists, and not a generic “for the world,” but to include Indigenous People for their safety, freedom and to find the Word of God.
We look at your world and praise you for the diversity all around us. Thank you for the gift of relationships; our connection with people, animals and the land. Help us, Lord, to see differences and diversity as strengths. Help us to listen and understand; to meet one another with wonder and anticipation. Amen
In my morning catch-up texts and dm’s, my friend Steve and I shared the ups and downs of life. How for each of us, there have been substantially more downs. Our mutual friend Carol, passed away a year ago on August 3rd. We can’t believe how much time has went by and also the concept of how slow life goes at times.
I expressed the thought: “we have to seek out joy, it’s hard to come by.” and I think I have a new positive mantra to get me through this season of grief.
Psalm 9:2 I will be glad, yes, filled with joy because of you. I will sing your praises, O Lord God above all gods.
Psalm 28:7 He is my strength, my shield from every danger. I trusted in him, and he helped me. Joy rises in my heart until I burst out in songs of praise to him.
Romans 5:2 For because of our faith, he has brought us into this place of highest privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to actually becoming all that God has had in mind for us to be.
This post is a little like the last one, because a confession I must make is that I often jump the gun ahead of God’s plan for me, which results in chaos and anxiety.
Sometimes it’s a control issue. I know, I know, we can’t even control our own lives, how on earth will we attempt to save another?
Psalm 27:14 Don’t be impatient. Wait for the Lord, and he will come and save you! Be brave, stouthearted, and courageous. Yes, wait and he will help you.
It seems I am unable to learn this lesson, it’s been years of interference. Dear God, let this be one I “get”…. one I can “recognize the next time,” make me an instrument of Your peace, instead of mine.
My feeble attempts at trying to manage life so it’s easier for me, is really – a sin in itself. God has laid out the path, He has given me the tools and map. But I scurry past Him, “I know what I’m doing/saying/thinking.” My plan will get me there faster.
NOPE. Not faster.
In fact, I’ve gone three steps back now.
Peace and God’s grace to all who sin! (Who doesn’t?) 🙂
When chaos or negativity interrupts your life, how do you react? With worry? Try to fix the situation yourself? Gossip?
PRAYER, conversation with your Father. Bring it all to Him, and then LEAVE it there. No need to keep hashing it over in your mind, causing undue stress. God whispered to me last night “I’ve got this now.” I needed to hear that so much, as a situation was making me sick with worry.
Why isn’t prayer the first place we go in ANY circumstance? Perhaps we feel God has too much on His plate, and this is just a little thing.
Yesterday I thanked God for our new grandson who is healthy and happy after a hard entrance into the world. He wants to share our celebrations and joys as well as our sorrows and worries. Show Him what is flowering in your life!
When you walk in the light of Jesus, there are unimaginable promised rewards. Not just heaven, as everyone seems to think; but BIGGER! Imagine sitting at the table with Jesus, everything is inlaid in gold and jewels. There is no sorrow in heaven. There is dancing and singing and worshiping together. Be inspired!
I’m currently in a season of grief. I have been for about two years, but it continues on, as those I love are still dying. It seems endless. I ask God to give me a break, that it would be okay if no one dies for about a year.
But I know it won’t last for ever. There are many seasons in our life; particularly on our faith walk. Days, weeks, months, years when we hold on for an answer to prayer, or some kind of healing to take place.
I’ve been asking a lot of my prayer warriors, and I know it’s getting through because I have some really good days, filled with laughter, joy. Overall, it just seems incredibly sorrowful, but these bright spots remind me that life is truly a gift.
If you are hurting, please consider these resources:
Life Outreach International: 800-947-5433
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
My dad frequently commented that “our world is going to hell in a handbasket.” What is a ‘handbasket’ and why is the world in one. Worse, this was back in the 1970’s, imagine what he would think now. Roe overturned, Ukraine war, starvation in Sudan, the list is endless.
Although this is an unfortunate conversation and I seriously doubt that the mode of travel to Hell is in a handbasket, it needs to be said; PRAY PRAY PRAY. Pray for the state of the world, pray for your leaders, pray for your ministers, and pray for the evil-doers to change their ways; see the light, come to Jesus. It’s not impossible for God.
Matthew 19:26
Jesus looked at them intently and said, “Humanly speaking, no one. But with God, everything is possible.”
We all need conversation with a friend, pastor or other enlightened person at various times in our life. It’s a hard earned wisdom, developed from a tumultuous journey with a definitive and positive outcome. Maybe we are the voice of reason for another one.
Discernment is very necessary on big major decisions. And not just from people you know personally, but people who are straightforward and honest.
Don’t give the farm away, quit a job, move to another country, or file for divorce, until you’ve prayed, received Godly counsel and have a workable plan. Remember, feelings change on a dime, they aren’t trustworthy.
Proverbs 8:33 “Listen to my counsel—oh, don’t refuse it—and be wise.
1 Corinthians 12:8 To one person the Spirit gives the ability to give wise advice; someone else may be especially good at studying and teaching, and this is his gift from the same Spirit.
People identify in a myriad of ways. It’s no longer “married, gay, straight” or male/female, the way we identify people of color has changed too, and also pronouns. So much has changed, but in the realm of things; nothing has changed. Why? Because God loves every single human being. Period.
God is Love.
Now, the world in which we live is very judgemental and non-loving. Many churches are adamant about who is welcome, and who is not. That is not God’s love.
On top of that, it should not be the place of another human being to judge another. There are “beautiful people” who refuse to associate with “people they deem less beautiful.” Can you imagine? But that is how many hate groups form.
Be kind. Love with God’s love. Share the love that God has for you; as a gift for EVERYONE.
Today we celebrate and miss the fathers in our life. And most importantly, THE Heavenly Father deserves our thanks for all His goodness. We wouldn’t be here without Him.
Heavenly Father, oh how I love You. Thank You for adopting me into Your family and making me Your child. Thank You for being my heavenly parent who loves me unconditionally, cares for me unendingly and provides for all my needs. I’m so blessed to be Your child. In Jesus’ Name, Amen. (Sharon Jaynes)
That’s quite an expression, Pooh has. It could mean so many things. Depends on how you look at it.
Oh, isn’t that true of life, in general. It all depends on what you see/choose to see!
I’ve probably been a real downer lately, my friend Mari made a bookmark for me that says: “If I have to smile, I’m not going.” And that about sums it all up. It’s the small talk, cheerful attitudes, be positive; all those things that used to define me; and so very well. I would just put on my rose-colored glasses if I felt indifferent.
Unfortunately, that hasn’t been working either. And yesterday, my wired mom made a comment that she didn’t want to bother me, just let me know I was in her prayers. AND THAT is what got me out of this funk, just a little bit. I feel the sparkly parts of myself coming back. I think the well-wishers in the world may have been avoiding me because I’ve been filled with grief and maybe unrecognizable.
AND in my comings and goings this morning, I have remembered (and felt) that the Spirit lives within me, no matter (or bother) how I’m “feeling.”
Romans 5:4 And patience develops strength of character in us and helps us trust God more each time we use it until finally our hope and faith are strong and steady.
The first day of summer is next week. Although I look out my window and see blue sky, sun streaming in, green grass, beautiful trees; in my heart, I feel mostly winter. Cold, dark winter.
It is like the bottom of the well. A cave without light. An empty pit. Hollow. Disconnected.
On my continuous personal journey to find God, I often feel guilt for these raw emotions. Like, I should be sharing it all with my Heavenly Father. But a part of me holds onto the grief like an old comfortable quilt. I’m not ready (will I ever be?) to let go, let God, let grief move into a different space.
I will keep writing, because it is a form of journaling, and it helps me gain perspective on the “feels” ….
Romans 8:26 And in the same way—by our faith—the Holy Spirit helps us with our daily problems and in our praying. For we don’t even know what we should pray for nor how to pray as we should, but the Holy Spirit prays for us with such feeling that it cannot be expressed in words.
We are our own selves when we don’t have Jesus in our life. We let the ball roll where it may, we take little responsibility, we can keep hate in our heart, it’s not really a pleasant place. But this is where most people are before they are saved/walking a life in faith.
Jesus does include the word “US” which is kinda cool, it means “we” (a lot of people) are free from the harshness of life. We have comfort, wholeness, forgiveness, joy and peace of heart. The complete opposite of living in the world.
Of course this doesn’t mean our life is free of conflict or pain, injustice or anger. But knowing who drives our car is different and better than walking a lonely path. May you feel the love of Jesus in your life today.
Yesterday I received news that a friend passed away. I made a list in my mind of all I have lost since 2019. TEN! I haven’t even found peace with my sisters’ death in 2020, it’s been a hole in my heart. Now add another to the grief-bag and I just feel like it’s too much.
I give you my heavy heart, Heavenly Father. The broken pieces, the endless tears. Fill me with joy, happy memories, peace. I feel outside of myself from all the grief. Heal my spirit.
Psalm 31:9-10 O Lord, have mercy on me in my anguish. My eyes are red from weeping; my health is broken from sorrow. I am pining away with grief; my years are shortened, drained away because of sadness.
Psalm 69:13 But I keep right on praying to you, Lord. For now is the time—you are bending down to hear! You are ready with a plentiful supply of love and kindness.
This is one of those tricky words. For some it might mean punishment, but I recognize it as a “specialty, education, or hobby.” Something you have mastered, are considered an expert in, or even a type of degree or experience.
i.e. Key areas include architecture, planning, landscape architecture, art and design disciplines, geography, interior design and marketing.
However, this is not a lesson or “new word of the day,” I am guided to share a concept unfamiliar to some. Biblical education is important, but it’s not AS important as having a heart for Christ.
2 Chronicles 17:7-9
In the third year of his reign he began a nationwide religious education program. He sent out top government officials as teachers in all the cities of Judah. These men included Ben-hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel, and Micaiah. He also used the Levites for this purpose, including Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah, and Tobadonijah; also the priests, Elishama and Jehoram. They took copies of The Book of the Law of the Lord to all the cities of Judah to teach the Scriptures to the people.
Colossians 3:11 In this new life one’s nationality or race or education or social position is unimportant; such things mean nothing. Whether a person has Christ is what matters, and he is equally available to all.
Yesterday I wrote a little about the various religions. Then later in the day I found a discussion on NPR about religious experiences people had had. It was a little mind-blowing!
I think God definitely has a sense of humor and timing!
Just as we experience the mundane in our daily lives, so do we catch a glimpse of God’s wonderment.
May you find more of this as a new week begins!
Psalm 33:4 For all God’s words are right, and everything he does is worthy of our trust.
Where better to ponder than my own blog? Perhaps you will chime in with your own blatherings?
I am fond of saying: “I don’t think God put His mark on a certain religion and said “that’s that.” Not in regards to “Christianity” but instead to the myriad of religions. Is being Catholic better than being Lutheran or Baptist? Some throw up their hands when praising God, others are more reverent. I ask these questions a lot because I’m on a constant spiritual journey. I was baptized and raised Lutheran, throughout my life attended and was committed to Presbyterian, Born-Again, Episcopal, Universalist Unitarian and currently; Catholic! 🙂
I believe it all stems from our upbringing and family history. Most people that are a specific religion automatically remain, their entire lives. i.e. When I joined the Catholic church I was surprised how many identified as “cradle Catholics”….and more so – that their faith was habit.
But living a Christian life; doesn’t mean a religion has to be tacked on. We are all one in Christ Jesus.
2 Corinthians 5:17 When someone becomes a Christian, he becomes a brand new person inside. He is not the same anymore. A new life has begun!
Titus 2:1 But as for you, speak up for the right living that goes along with true Christianity.
It’s VBS season (Vacation Bible School)! Teachers are using old-school projects like the macaroni necklaces (a personal favorite) as well as more modern; colored pasta, taping together newspaper to make capes, Oh how I miss those delightful summer days at church.
Young minds ready to soak up and learn about the love of Jesus. For me it was the first time being without my parents, and feeling unsure and shy. Now I’d give anything to go back to those days, not just the arts and crafts, but the teachers and friends I haven’t seen in 40+ years.
What are your memories of church camp or vacation bible school?
One day some mothers brought their babies to him to touch and bless. But the disciples told them to go away. Then Jesus called the children over to him and said to the disciples, “Let the little children come to me! Never send them away! For the Kingdom of God belongs to men who have hearts as trusting as these little children’s. And anyone who doesn’t have their kind of faith will never get within the Kingdom’s gates.”
Last year I had my left knee replaced. What a journey that was! I learned to depend on the various assists that were suggested. A walker, physical therapy, the many exercises, learning how to manage stairs and then graduating to a cane. And now, my body moves easily without help.
In our prayer life, there is never a point when we don’t need an assist. I recently dug out my (new at Christmas 2020) beautiful “Manual of Prayers.” It has gold edges and lovely ribbons for bookmarks. In it, I have found treasures of the Father’s love. The following, is long-but a lovely read and may it inspire you this week.
I Thirst for You
It is true. I stand at the door of your heart, day and night. Even when you are not listening, even when you doubt it could be me, I am there. I await even the smallest sign of your response, even the least whispered invitation that will allow Me to enter. And I want you to know that whenever you do invite me, I do come-always and without fail. Silent and unseen I come, but with infinite power and love, and bringing the many gifts of My Spirit. I come with My mercy, with My desire to forgive and heal you, and with a love for you beyond your comprehension-a love every bit as great as the love I have received from the Father. I come, longing to console you and give you strength, to lift you up and bind all your wounds. I bring you My light, to dispel your darkness and all your doubts. I come with My power, that I might carry you and all your burdens: with My grace, to touch your heart and transform your life; and My peace I give to still your soul.
I know you through and through; I know everything about you. The very hairs of your head I have numbered. Nothing in your life is unimportant to Me. I have followed you through the years, and I have always loved you, even in your wanderings. I know every one of your problems. I know your needs and your worries. And yes, I know all your sins. But I tell you again that I love you, not for what you have or haven’t done. I love you for you, for the beauty and dignity My Father gave you by creating you in His own image. It is a dignity you have often forgotten, a beauty you have tarnished by sin. But I love you as you are, and I have shed My blood to win you back. If you only ask Me with faith, My grace will touch all that needs changing in your life; and I will give you the strength to free yourself from sin and all its destructive power.
I know what is in your heart; I know your loneliness and all your hurts: the rejections, the judgments, the humiliations. I carried it all before you. And I carried it all for you, so you might share My strength and victory. I know especially your need for love– how you are thirsting to be loved and cherished. But how often you have thirsted in vain, by seeking that love selfishly, striving to fill the emptiness inside you with passing pleasures–with the even greater emptiness of sin. Do you thirst for love? “Come to Me all you who thirst…” (John 7:37). I will satisfy you and fill you. Do you thirst to be cherished? I cherish you more than you can imagine–to the point of dying on a cross for you.
I thirst for you. Yes, that is the only way to even begin to describe My love for you: I thirst for you. I thirst to love you and to be loved by you; that is how precious you are to Me. I thirst for you. Come to Me, and I will fill your heart and heal your wounds. I will make you a new creation and give you peace, even in all your trials. I thirst for you. You must never doubt My mercy, My acceptance of you, My desire to forgive, My longing to bless you and live My life in you. I thirst for you. If you feel unimportant in the eyes of the world, that matters not at all. For Me, there is no one any more important in the entire world than you. I thirst for you. Open to Me, come to Me, thirst for Me, give Me your life, and I will prove to you how important you are to My Heart…
No matter how far you may wander, no matter how often you forget Me, no matter how many crosses you may bear in this life, there is one thing I want you to always remember, one thing that will never change: I thirst for you-just as you are. You don’t need to change to believe in My love, for it will be your belief in My love that will change you. You forget Me, and yet I am seeking you at every moment of the day standing at the door of your heart, and knocking. Do you find this hard to believe? Then look at the cross, look at My Heart that was pierced for you. Have you not understood my cross? Then listen again to the words I spoke there, for they tell you clearly why I endured all this for you: “I thirst…” (John 19:28)… I have never stopped seeking to love you and to be loved by you. You have tried many other things in your search for happiness; why not try opening your heart to Me, right now, more than you ever have before. Whenever you do open the doorof your heart, whenever you come close enough, you will hear Me say to you again and again, not in mere human words but in spirit: “No matter what you have done, I love you for your own sake. Come to Me with your misery and your sins, with your troubles and needs, and with all your longing to be loved. I stand at the door of your heart and knock. Open to Me, for I thirst for you.” Amen.
Each day I sit down to write and I never really know what the subject is. That is the great thing about letting the spirit move you. But how does it happen? I am not a theologian, but I would venture to guess it’s trusting your inner self, the E.T. light that God planted in your heart at birth. It guides and teaches and it lovingly moves.
John 14:26 But when the Father sends the Comforter instead of me—and by the Comforter I mean the Holy Spirit—he will teach you much, as well as remind you of everything I myself have told you.
Matthew 3:11 “With water I baptize those who repent of their sins; but someone else is coming, far greater than I am, so great that I am not worthy to carry his shoes! He shall baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire.
Luke 12:12 ….. for the Holy Spirit will give you the right words even as you are standing there.”
May the spirit move in you today and may you know it’s from your Heavenly Father.
I have always followed the teachings of Mother Teresa; well before I was Catholic, her wisdom and love for those who in a ‘lesser than’ position in life has always inspired me.
Also Thich Nhat Hanh, a global spiritual leader, poet, and peace activist, renowned for his powerful teachings taught me how to bring peace into my life, and the world. That prayer is a powerful tool and positive thoughts create a peaceful heart.
“Hope is important because it can make the present moment less difficult to bear. If we believe that tomorrow will be better, we can bear a hardship today.”
“For things to reveal themselves to us, we need to be ready to abandon our views about them.”
These quotes or inspirations are sent from the Divine, His messengers show up oftentimes in the hearts of others. Look out for them, learn a new way of thinking or praying, open your mind to the what if’s, for it is in them, that we grow and engage. We are free to share our faith, life experiences, sorrows and dreams with others.
Job 8:9-13 ….”or we were born but yesterday and know so little; our days here on earth are as transient as shadows. 10 But the wisdom of the past will teach you. The experience of others will speak to you, reminding you that 11-13 those who forget God have no hope. They are like rushes without any mire to grow in; or grass without water to keep it alive. Suddenly it begins to wither, even before it is cut.
Back in the day (I’m going to age myself here!), we had our own version of silliness online. My favorite was a joke about the “ether bunny” (ethernet). Or a newsletter called “Technology Bytes.” Also there were flying toasters for screen savers and and a distinct sound when you turned on computer and it connected to the internet. Here is a sample: https://youtu.be/gsNaR6FRuO0
Now we have memes and gifs (which I use almost daily). I think there are probably some cool ones for Jesus, or life in faith.
Sense of humor is important in life. What is your favorite way of expressing it? Perhaps you are a stilt walker like my friend Tom Dull, my other friend Pete who makes hundreds of cupcakes and hands them out on his own birthday! Me, I like to share memes and gifs! 🙂
So many tragic events, daily news littered with more shootings, protests, the war in Ukraine, human rights, abuse, complete darkness in the souls of the evil.
Where is God in all of this? He is here. He is not the source of evil, and in fact, we each live with “free will,” which in my opinion, allows the evil to persist. We each have control over what we say, think, do, believe.
Some will say that praying isn’t enough. And to be honest, I don’t think it is ENOUGH. It’s important, but if you want to get on the bandwagon (whatever is yours), you need to push legislation, protest, attend political events, help drive your agenda to change laws.
I do know that GOD IS IN THE HEART OF EVERY PERSON, yes, even the evil person. Because that is God at work. Evil pushes God away, but God is always there. He is the spark in your heart, the gentle nudge to do the right thing, comfort; in sorrow, laughter in joy.
Psalm 7:14 The wicked man conceives an evil plot, labors with its dark details, and brings to birth his treachery and lies….”
Psalm 14:6 He is the refuge of the poor and humble when evildoers are oppressing them.
This morning I attended a women’s once-a-month church group. We got to know each other with coffee and introductions. We watched a video on God’s love, talked in small groups after and then did a guided meditation prayer to end our time together.
One of the examples of God’s love is that; like the enormous Niagara Falls in the U.S. and Canada, one day – it will dry up. But God’s love, never will. NEVER. Ever. He will always love us, no matter, come “hell or high water” or lack thereof!
What a gift! And you know what? Jesus loves every single person. Even you! Yes, you. He always will. His love never fails. No matter how long you’ve been away from Him, or if you’ve never experienced His grace and joy, just say: “Yes Lord, I want to be loved by you.”
A few years ago, for my own faith studies, I wrote every name and description I could think of to describe God. I ended up with over 40 recipe cards! That didn’t suffice my learning, so I researched each name, really digging into the Bible and “Bible Gateway” (great app/resource)!
The ultimate, creator of the world, Alpha, righteous, almighty, reverent, Father, Son, love, Jehovah, sovereign. 1 John 4:8, “whoever does not love, does not know God, because God is love.” The beginning of most prayers; “Dear God”
Just a few for today, will add more in upcoming posts. Feel free to add some of your own!
Have you been kind? Thoughtful? Forgiving? Did you go out of your way to help a stranger? Or were you stuck in a rut, unable to do more than required?
We all have days that are upbeat or down in the dumps. All that Jesus asks of us (ALL!!!) is to be His “hands and feet.” With that in mind, how could you have turned your day around? This is fodder for me, when I’m laying in bed at night wondering if today was pleasing to the Lord. Oftentimes, no – it wasn’t.
But we are blessed by His forgiveness and grace. Without it, we would be walking on the edge of everlasting sin.
As I look out my window, I see that our Asian Lilacs are “so close,” ready to pop with bloom any minute now! And the fragrance!!! If the computer had smell-o-vision, wouldn’t that be a joy!
Have you ever brought flowers from the outside; in? Did you notice the ants crawling around? Oh great, I think – now we’ll have ants in the house! But really, it’s just one or two stragglers from having lived on their beautiful blooms. The ants need whatever the flowers provide, the flowers need sunshine, rain and weeding. The ground needs sustenance to survive long winters. It truly is the “circle of life.”
You too, are a flower, ready to bloom! A walk with Jesus, is a lifetime journey. There will be bugs and disease, droughts, floods, an overabundance of beauty, and sorrow when the season ends. Living in faith, being aware of those little nudges, studying the Word, fellowship with like minded people, all help grow the person you are – and will be.
I took the entire month of May off from writing. I needed time to decompress, read, take walks, enjoy my days. I lasted almost 30 days. A few days ago I decided it was time to start this blog again, and have committed to writing every single day. Why? Well, it keeps the blog fresh and it also helps open my eyes to what my Savior wants me to see, AND share with you!
So far I’ve been inspired to write easily with an open heart and mind. I’ve always touted that it’s not my messages; they are coming 100% directly from God, I’m merely the messenger. So as the days and weeks and seasons change, I hope you are encouraged with these words.
James 1:17 But whatever is good and perfect comes to us from God, the Creator of all light, and he shines forever without change or shadow.
Hebrews 2:4 God always has shown us that these messages are true by signs and wonders and various miracles and by giving certain special abilities from the Holy Spirit to those who believe; yes, God has assigned such gifts to each of us.
There are some very old school words in our prayer, scripture and even hymns. While I do prefer the more modern versions of the Bible, it’s comforting to hear or read words that I grew up with. The Lord’s Prayer is probably the prayer most littered with thee’s and thou’s. Let’s see how it compares with present language.
The Lord’s Prayer (King James Bible)
Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, As it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, As we forgive them that trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, The power, and the glory, For ever and ever. Amen.
The Lord’s Prayer (The Message Bible)
Our Father in heaven, Reveal who you are. Set the world right; Do what’s best— as above, so below. Keep us alive with three square meals. Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others. Keep us safe from ourselves and the Devil. You’re in charge! You can do anything you want! You’re ablaze in beauty! Yes. Yes. Yes.
Spoiler Alert: If you haven’t read or seen the movie “The Shack” you may not want to continue on. It took me three attempts to watch the movie because it was too real and heartbreaking. When I finally did, I was thoroughly inspired by the characters. God is a strong Black woman, Jesus; a Middle-Eastern man and the Holy Spirit is a wispy lover of all things gardens and flowers.
I find it confusing the Trinity; the Father, Son and Holy Spirit because they are the same, right? I also know from my Catholic teachings (newbie here, remember?) that the Mystery of Faith is that we don’t understand, and it’s okay. We can explore, as I am doing-writing and sharing.
Some describe the Holy Spirit as a “nudge” maybe similar to a spiritual kick in the bootie! Also an entity (some say a “person” but what does that mean?) that you can talk to intercede with Jesus. Maybe like Mother Mary. I personally have a problem these instances, I was taught to pray directly to Jesus. Even my own sister who passed away in 2020, a lifelong Buddhist, used Tibetan prayer flags to send requests. I’m not sure why we need to guide our hopes, concerns and gratitude “out” or “to.” I’m sure a theologian would provide a long list of why.
In the meantime, I will keep reading, talking, asking questions and if I never know, it will be okay, because ultimately, walking in faith, with Jesus is the ultimate truth.
I think of Doubting Thomas, he didn’t believe that Jesus was back from death, he didn’t believe and needed proof. So Jesus produced it by having Thomas touch his wounds. That was all he needed and was able to join in the celebrations!
We often doubt the circumstances we are in; wondering if Jesus is in the details or are we left to our own devices?
Doubting is a valuable tool, it teaches us to search out truth and not give up until we have found it. It can be as simple as your child lying to you or noticing a discrepancy in your checkbook. A little white lie can escalate or lack of funds can create bouncing checks. We can’t just let go of what we don’t understand, we need to pursue and get to the bottom of it.
The song “God’s Not Dead” by the Newsboys, is a great representation of ‘getting to the truth.” https://youtu.be/S_OTz-lpDjw
So go ahead and doubt, it’s not a sin, mistake or disbelief. It’s the opposite, it allows us to get what we need to understand.
I do guided imagery at night sometimes when I can’t sleep. It is also an effective prayer tool. Jesus saw that I was sad, grieving my sister – He asked if I would join Him on a walk. And we did, through beautiful gardens, with fragrant blooms and delightful colors. He told me that the veil between the living and the dead is thin, occasionally spirit can catch a glimpse of the other side, and when I feel my sister nearby, she is feeling me too. I don’t know if it’s hogwash, but it sure felt sensitive and caring.
Jesus enveloped me in love. It was a hard day of sadness, tears, and even a mini miracle. I have been in the process of scanning pics, saving to the cloud and then tossing the actual photos. A neighbor came to the fence yesterday and handed me a photo, said she found on the ground by our mailbox and wondered if it was mine! YES! It was a photo of my sister and brother when they were children! How funny that THAT would be the photo that landed outside the garbage can!
Today in church, I was moved to crying during this song. I have heard before and always have the same reaction. Palm Sunday is such an emotionally potent day. Imagine being Jesus, you arrive to Jerusalem, the people are waving palm fronds at you, laying down their garments for your lowly donkey to walk over, there is a feeling of joy and celebration in the air and then………the mobs start shouting “crucify him, crucify him.” And you aren’t even able to defend yourself because you know this is the way. Your path. Christ died for sins he never committed. On a lighter note, I love the concept of not only Jesus being a lamb, but we are called to be also.
As we gather together for the journey of Easter, be as present as you can; and if you cry in church, it’s okay – it means that Jesus is touching your heart.
I have been uninspired to write. This is unlike me, because I love to write. I love to share the messages that God gives to me. He is still sending the words, and I’m still receiving them, but….. I don’t know.
Today after duking it out with a seller on Ebay and then getting a favorable response from a customer service agent, I’m happy once again. Isn’t that how our spiritual life can sometimes work? I know for a fact that feelings come and go, they are like the waves in an ocean. To that end, feelings are not trustworthy or factual.
What is? The WORD of God. I have started to “encounter God through Scripture” through my own home study. Jeremiah 15:16 sums it up perfectly:
“When I discovered your words, I devoured them; they became a source of joy to me and the delight of my heart, because I bore your name, O Lord, God of hosts“
How do YOU encounter God? How do you hear the messages? Where do you share them? Do you share them? #inquiringminds #Godwritesyourstory
Today as I hold tight onto a prayer request, hoping that Jesus will push this one through, I am reminded and have confessed to; that God is not a wishing machine.
We cannot go to Him when we have exhausted all earthly attempts at solving the issue. He must be our FIRST line of defense. Why do we treat God this way? He is the Most Holy. Prayer, even desperate requests need to start at the source.
Is your good friend John going to make all the pieces fit? Can your boss cash in a big favor so that your need is met (and then delight in the fact that now YOU owe HIM?)
Fickle creatures we are. Wanting to live our best life, while managing it “so well” “most of the time” until it crashes and we need “this to work in our favor.” Please God, I need you to A, B or C so I can be Happy/Employed/Married, again.
Let us value the relationship we have with God, with respect and reverence.
Romans 8:26Likewise, the Spirit helps us in our weaknesses, for we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.
About eight years ago I was taking a class at the local Unitarian church. It was called: “What do you believe.” It was very informative and from a Christian view, it really helped me understand what I believed, why, and how I could back it up. We were asked to write a “mission statement” which in the business world; describes your acumen, philosophy, traits that are important for customers. But on this day, it was far more personal. Mine has changed many times, in fact here – in this post, I’m sharing where I stand today; this very moment.
I encourage you to do some journaling and discover what your “mission statement” is regarding your faith.
My Mission Statement
I believe that God lives in me and my life. I believe that Jesus died on the cross for my sins. I am a better person for these beliefs. I willingly share my story of faith if it draws them closer to a relationship with Christ. And I love ALL people, as Christ loves me.
I have on occasion, written for a local church newsletter. I always included scripture with a small story or musing about life; mine or just in general. I am continuing this tradition, going forward here. Enjoy and please comment if you are so inclined!
My desk faces the front yard of my home. We have many trees and in the summer they are filled with leaves, the grass is green, the sky blue, the weather warm with slight breezes. In the winter, as it is today; Tuesday, January 11, the sky is blue but that is the only similarity. It’s is a chilly 34 degrees, there is snow on every inch of the ground, the trees are bare, but there is life. Oh – is there life! Birds flock to our feeders, or the front bushes for shelter, squirrels scamper up and down trees, bunnies peek out from underneath the neighbors shed, and crows or ravens – they keep the neighborhood safe with their frequent and loud caws.
Be aware of your surroundings. The beauty that is a true gift from God. Have a lovely and blessed week.
Oh to be present when our Savior entered this world in human form. Perhaps, as some historians state; the birth of Jesus was likely in September; keeping in mind the Gregorian calendar was mostly ruled by circumstance, the alignment of certain stars, etc.
Whenever He was born, He brought the one true light into our lives, similar to ET’s “home” light. It is a part of every single soul that is born. It is the beacon for our Heavenly home.
Christmas is a Holy day, time of year, way of life. Let us celebrate the birth of Christ every day in our hearts.
I’ve been in semi-regular contact with a dear friend I’ve never met. We attempt to talk a few times a month, catching up; and my favorite – praying together. We “met” through an online prayer request page. I told her this afternoon, that when summer comes, I’m driving out to her house with my swimsuit (she has a pool!), and I will look forward to hugging her in person, and having a faith-filled fun day.
We need people in our life. Some are “have to’s” i.e. family members, a boss, coworkers, neighbors. The ones we can choose; aka “framily” are my favorites! Friends that become family.
Fellowship is so important to our spiritual growth. The word “friend/friends” is mentioned 285 times in the Bible! Granted, some of the scripture is pretty tough from the Old Testament, but overall, the message is encouragement.
John 15:11-15 “I’ve told you these things for a purpose: that my joy might be your joy, and your joy wholly mature. This is my command: Love one another the way I loved you. This is the very best way to love. Put your life on the line for your friends. You are my friends when you do the things I command you. I’m no longer calling you servants because servants don’t understand what their master is thinking and planning. No, I’ve named youfriends because I’ve let you in on everything I’ve heard from the Father.”
I have always loved Psalm 42:1 As the deer pants for water, so I long for you, O God. What a beautiful, visual reminder of our love for God, how we strive to become closer to Him.
Where do you go for spiritual guidance? I love to walk in nature, surrounded by trees, water, blue skies and a warm breeze. There, I find peace of heart and mind, quieting my soul. He speaks to me, reaches out to me, touches the scarred places. He heals and renews my spirit.
Be like the deer this week, walk silently on the path, open your heart to receive all that God lovingly wants to rain down on you.
A little over three weeks ago I had my left knee replaced. It’s been quite a recovery process. Today is the first day that I am motivated. The previous days and weeks have been ‘forced.’ PT cracks the whip and my husband reminds me that I must do more than I think I can, and then there is the necessary self guilt; if I don’t rehab well, the surgery won’t have been a success.
I’ve been inspired to praise God with music the past few days. And a friend shared a mighty scripture with me; Corinthians 1:3-5 (I’m using The Message Bible version).
The Rescue
3-5 All praise to the God and Father of our Master, Jesus the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us. We have plenty of hard times that come from following the Messiah, but no more so than the good times of his healing comfort—we get a full measure of that, too.
May you receive the powerful healing of Christ. He restores and loves!
Do you pray every day? With your morning coffee or before bed?
Do you have a “prayer closet?” (a private, quiet place where you go specifically to pray).
Do you use contemplative prayer or meditation? Maybe you journal or write poetry. Color or create art? Sing, lifting your voice to God?
There is no specific or better way to pray. THAT you do, is all that matters.
When I pray, I try to incorporate a lot of gratitude into my words.
“Holy Father, you are my friend and guardian. Thank You for being kind and comforting in times of darkness and hurt. Thank You for the sunshine and warmth on my skin. I appreciate all that I have, and for the gentle prods to forgive easier, not speak in anger and to love without ceasing. Help me to keep my eyes on You and my heart open to Your instruction.” Amen.
It’s Sunday morning, I’m home watching the leaves drop from the tree out front. There is a slight breeze, the sky is dotted with clouds. It’s a peaceful day. Sometimes this is my church.
There is a quietness to the day, it fills my heart and soul. It reminds me that even though the last week has been hard, I’m still loved by my Heavenly Father. He envelopes me in kindness and comfort.
And as a new week begins, remind me that You are already there. Today, I say thanks for peace and grace.
Today, October 4, 2021 at 4:46 p.m. CST Facebook is STILL down. And Instagram and Whatsapp if you use those. I’ve been in FB withdrawal, anxious to post a really cool pic and ask for prayers for an appointment I have tomorrow and I’ve realized that I don’t know how to reach out to (A LOT) of people without access to FB. And of course this gives me a pause about how dependent I AM on FB.
It’s a vicious cycle. I had a friend who NEVER WAS on FB. I can’t even fathom that. I have other friends who periodically deactivate their accounts, but eventually come back. And a handful who are never ever on FB, no recent posts, no cute pics of their rabbits or updates on their lives, and for those people – I have to text or IM or maybe actually call (yegads, I do not like to talk on the phone, but do for certain people).
So maybe when this post lands in your mailbox you’ll know I really like you (or you like me because you subscribed to this blog), but either way:
Last month I shared the loss of my friend Carol who passed away after battling cancer, the death of her husband and her zest for life. I think the latter is what is the most sad. We’ve had another loss in our family; the kids’ mom, my husband’s first wife. She also was tired of the pain and being a burden on her kids (a mother is never a burden).
Grieving is so difficult no matter what stage you are in. My mother died in 1978, she was 53 years old and I was 14. It’s been 43 years since I’ve seen her. The hope that she is with Jesus soothes my broken heart.
Matthew 5:12 Be happy about it! Be very glad! for a tremendous reward awaits you up in heaven.
1 Peter 1:4 And God has reserved for his children the priceless gift of eternal life; it is kept in heaven for you…
Yesterday, an acquaintance shared the story of an 103 year old woman who; in excellent health asked in her daily prayer: “Jesus, did you forget about me?” She was heaven-bound a few months later. Jesus never forgets us, but it’s all in His time, not ours.
May you be blessed while grieving, may your heart heal with the balm of God’s love. Peace.
THE PIECES 