November 17, 2019

STILL

beach quiet waves-by addesia_Pixabay

“Hold still a minute, please!”

How often have we said or heard that phrase?! Whether to a wiggly child getting assistance with a coat before rushing out to play or putting finishing touches on any procedure, “holding still” is sometimes a challenge. This can be especially difficult if pain or discomfort is anticipated, such as getting a splinter out. We will ourselves, with gritted teeth and wavering resolve, not to pull back!

Our “go” and “do” society often encourages or rewards us for all those good or expected items. How do we choose when we have so many options? Group or individual activities, self-improvement, school activities and sports, community volunteers, arts and music, support groups, church and family… The possibilities are many!  Of course, there are seasons of life when things are full. Making a living and raising children, study or training for an occupation, and caring for loved ones are all important. There is satisfaction in work and events accomplished. These are positive things, right?

Besides, when we stay busy then we don’t have to think about things …things like life and faith. Who has time or energy to think?! The passing of time, especially things that make us uncomfortable or unhappy can be easily shoved aside. Even positive things can slip away before we know it. We somehow don’t get around to seeing that neighbor, friend, or family member. Things are set on autopilot, keeping up with our “to do’s.”

The problem for me with packed days of “go and do” is that I often find myself restless or stressed. By not allowing myself to pause, worry can become a norm. It’s difficult to fully relax and enjoy life. Taking time for those precious moments of stillness will renew and refresh us.

The writer of the book of Psalms knew this great gift and need for stillness, having struggled with it himself. God reminded him to “be still and know that I am God…” * The psalmist paints a picture of life as a surging sea; sometimes the waves mount up, but God quiets them with a word. *  This is echoed in Jesus’ words in the book of Mark, “Quiet. Be still” he rebuked the winds and waves. * Good reminders for us today!

My prayer for us, is that we will be intentional about our moments of stillness, however brief, and that we will treasure them. I pray for pauses to give thanks and to recognize God who brings healing and strength, and that you may heed His caring words, “Quiet. Be still.”

* Psalm 46:10a; Psalm 89:9; Psalm 107:29; Mark 4:39

November 9, 2019

Reflections on Mud Puddles

puddle in the woods_by Anastasiya Romanova_Unsplash

• Who we choose to be is reflected in pools of life
• Life is a mixture of many things
• This mixture can form mud
• Mud may be healing or may clog up the works
• Puddles form when too much comes at us at once
• Allow times of stillness to wash away stress
• Accumulate provisions for times of need
• Friendship is like rainwater
• Rainwater refreshes after long dry times
• We pour ourselves into things we are passionate about
• Run splash enjoy life
• Joy comes when we take time for small pleasures

October 25, 2019

Small World

dragonfly-4502164_1280

Why look right there
Now what is that

I peer into
A small world

Busy hurrying
Here and there

Creeping crawling
Flying digging

Busy ants and
Chirping crickets

Waiting spiders
Swaying webs

Wasps and bees and
Buzzing mosquitoes

Caterpillars munching
Butterflies flitting

Dragonflies and
So much more

Such interesting lives
We seldom notice

Working and living
See their small world

October 19, 2019

Imagine

book open_pixabay_cropped

I love to read a good novel! As I am drawn into that world, I see it in my mind’s eye, and I imagine the experiences the characters are going through. I too face the challenges, pull for the hero, and hold my breath as they face terrible odds. What a gift our imagination can be.

As we imagine, we form a mental picture or image of something. An anticipated event we are unable to attend, possible scenarios of actions or words we are considering, and creative projects all involve our imagination. Sometimes I think that I have too much imagination, especially when I get stuck on negative possibilities! Focusing on positive things seems to help.

What would the world be like without artists, musicians, inventors, scientists, and others? We receive so many benefits and enjoyment from each other which arise from our imaginations. I love to watch or join in with a child at play… playing pretend. Theatre and dance are favorite expressions too.

Does God have an imagination? I think He must! When God created the universe, He had an image in mind of this place, of what the world and its inhabitants would be and how it would look… an image of life. In fact, the book of Genesis says that humankind was created in His own image. * Our imaginations are a small but important reflection of His own as we allow Him to work through us. Paul said in his letter to the church in Ephesus that God is able to do so much more than we ask or imagine. *

Great things begin with a great imagination. May we open ourselves up to the possibilities. Imagine that!

* Genesis 1:27; Ephesians 3:20-21

 

October 11, 2019

Reflections on Wheelbarrows

wheelbarrow-full-of-hay_stockvault_600x314px

• We have many options when tackling a big job
• If things become unbalanced, we can tip over
• Loads can be eased with the right equipment
• Gathering resources first will increase success
• When the load is large, work a little at a time
• Easing burdens improves the work process
• We take on challenges so we can move forward
• Dumping anxiety and doubt eases stress
• Step-by-step, progress is made
• Consider your best path to offer services
• Take care of your tools for long and productive use
• Thank the One who works along-side you