Bible / Scripture

January 20, 2018

Cling

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“Ahhhh!” Tearing plastic wrap off to place over a plate of food takes a knack! Have you ever wrestled with it, only to end up with a wadded mess or pulling out half the roll in attempts to get off a small piece?! After carefully pulling the mess apart or taking the whole roll out of the box and rolling some of it back up, the job is finally done.

I am reminded of a young child fearfully clinging to a parent when faced with a new situation or new people. It may take time to calm those fears as hands pat, kisses convey love, or words explain. That clinging speaks of a trust and a need which is basic for us all.

The psalmist spoke of clinging to God. “Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. I cling to you; your right hand upholds me.” Like the child clinging to that source of security, when we hold determinedly to our source of help and strength we are comforted.

Likewise, when I climbed the ladder to the roof of our house to clean out the gutters (Yes, I did that!) …I clung to the ladder and to the snow guards, secure as the work was done.

We have that same security in God as we cling to Him and to His words. Paul, in his letter to the Romans, said to “cling to what is good.” Sometimes things may seem to be a wadded-up mess, but when we stick with God, He helps us work through our difficulties. Our lives reflect His presence… Because He is our help, we can sing, confident that His hand holds us up.

December 23, 2017

There It Is!

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I see it! There it is! As we approach the broad river and long bridge, our excitement mounts. Hours of watching for landmarks and anticipating our visit with relatives were soon to be rewarded. There’s the road, we proclaim as we turn up the hill on a winding country lane.

Whether traveling to visit family or friends, a special concert or conference, sports event, or other occasion… it is satisfying to finally arrive and to be a part of the activity. Focusing on landmarks, road signs, and other directions (maybe that voice from our smartphone), we are guided to our destination.

In my work, I do a lot of traveling over back roads to provide services in homes and day cares. I like to know how to get from destination to destination before I head out, although I am up to an occasional “adventure” as I connect less familiar roads when needed. Landmarks are welcome aides.

The prophet Jeremiah encouraged the Hebrew people to return not only to the land of their people, but also to God. Set up road signs; put up guideposts. Take note of the highway, the road that you take. Return, Virgin Israel, return to your towns, he said.*

But how do we get there? How do we travel through this life and how do we recognize the “road signs” to God? It can be a difficult and long journey. The landmarks may be new or forgotten along the way. The psalmist said, But now, Lord, what do I look for? My hope is in you.*

I love that God gifted us all with an awesome road sign, his Word to us… a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.* Announcements! Encouragement! Cautions! Wake-up calls as well! As we look forward, God shows us. This way! There it is! I welcome suggestions, wise counsel, and support from others, especially those who have traveled similar paths. Think of all the people in life who have in some way impacted your movement from one destination to another. Decisions, small and large, are guided by our relationships with others and by our life experiences. Our faith is central to that.

The angels announced, “This will be a sign to you. You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” The road signs were true and “the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

With all the “stuff” crowding my vision and thoughts, I don’t always see the road signs. May God grant us quiet moments to refocus, to see and praise Him, our hope and our guiding light for each day. There it is!

     *Jeremiah 31:21, Psalm 39:7, Psalm 119:105

December 2, 2017

Christmastide Journey

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Zechariah and Elizabeth upon the path
To them came joyful word
Rejoice, a son to fill their lives
Messenger to prepare the way

Mary and Joseph lead by God
Angel-greeted, faithful, and true
Rejoice, rejoice Messiah to come
Emmanuel, God is with us

Through Nazareth and Judean hills
Arrived at lowly stable
Rejoice, Bethlehem to see the child
Angel-announced and shepherd-followed

From eastern lands the wise men traveled
Followed a shining star of hope
Rejoice, rejoice a king is born
Gifts offered to humble home

To Egypt now, as former time
Now flee, oh flee far from
Earthly king blinded to good news
The story will continue 

Jerusalem upon the mountain
Journey on, journey true
Rejoice, oh people of faith
Step now, for Christmastide

Faithful comes a mighty God
Light shines to show the way 
Place of shelter, gift of grace
Worship now… upon this Christmastide journey

November 23, 2017

Gratitude

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“Say thank you,” Momma reminded us. Whether it was home-baked cookies, a special gift, or a compliment, the importance of expressing our gratitude was a lesson learned early. Family gatherings and meals were opportunities to be polite as we enjoyed each other’s company: “Would you like some more?” … “Yes, thank you!”

When ten lepers were healed after encountering Jesus, only one returned to him to give God thanks. The fact that this man was also a despised Samaritan, one of mixed Jewish race, was even more amazing… or perhaps it was more understandable. This man knew what it felt like to be rejected on an even deeper level. 

Thanks is also spoken in anticipation of what is yet to be received. When Jesus multiplied the loaves and fish to feed the large crowd which had gathered, he offered thanks before the miracle occurred and the food was provided. He trusted that God would supply what was needed. Before Lazarus was raised from the dead, Jesus prayed and gave thanks, “Father, I thank You that You have heard Me.”

There is something about the expression of gratitude that brings happiness and encouragement to everyone. It is more than a simple thank you, hug, or smile. Gratitude is a recognition of goodness and caring. It acknowledges the act of giving, which says, “You matter!”

How God must love to receive our thanks to Him… that same recognition of His goodness and care and that we His children matter to Him! The ten men were still covered with leprosy, yet they turned to show themselves to the priests, anticipating their healing which had not yet occurred. Isn’t that amazing?! It is so hard to thank God when we are in the middle of our own struggles or grief. How can I thank God in times when my world seems to be falling apart?! Yet, like the lepers, we can confidently go forward… Isn’t it also difficult at times to give thanks to God when we are full and satisfied, when life is restored and good, and to recognize or acknowledge His provision?

Gratitude. How will we express it …and how will we experience it in both the receiving and the giving?

*Luke 17:11-19, John 6:11, John 11:41

October 30, 2017

AFRAID

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Flash! … Boom! Crash! Crackle! As lightning flashed and thunder rolled late one night, I leapt from my bed and ran to the doorway of my upstairs bedroom. As a young girl many years ago, I still clearly remember how afraid I was. I called for my father, my voice almost drowned out by the storm, and he came up to assure me that all would be well. His comforting presence stayed with me until the worst of the storm had passed.

Jesus’ disciples were afraid during a storm too. As they were crossing the Sea of Galilee, a sudden storm came up and the boat was in danger of sinking. Jesus had fallen asleep, but his disciples awakened him; he got up and rebuked the wind and waters and calmed the storm. *

There are times in life when I am afraid. I’m afraid for my family and others when they face health challenges or accidents. I’m afraid of dangerous weather and travel conditions. I’m afraid because of uncertain times, strained relationships, or changes in life situations. Sometimes I’m afraid to try new things or to step out in a new or different direction.

When Jesus’ disciples were afraid and amazed after Jesus calmed the storm, Jesus spoke of their faith and when my father came to me during the thunder storm, his presence calmed me. I had faith that my daddy would take care of me, that I would be safe. When we feel alone, overwhelmed, and afraid we can remember the words Jesus spoke to his disciples in his final days with them. He encouraged them to have faith and said that he would be sending the Holy Spirit to be with them forever: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. **

God surrounds us with His presence, the storms pass, and the winds calm… Peace to still our fears.

*Luke 8:23-25, **John 14:27

October 1, 2017

PROVISION

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I admit to loving the warmth of summer with its planting, gathering, family cook-outs, and time outdoors (yes, even mowing the yard). As the days begin to turn cooler and a hint of fall is in the air, many people are busy bringing in final offerings from gardens, vines, and trees. Others gather groceries and supplies and check to see that all is ready for the colder months ahead. Each season’s change marks new tasks, expectations, and hopes.

It’s easy to become preoccupied with the daily tasks: bills to be paid, cars repaired or replaced, income secured, homes maintained, food and clothing provided… For me this past year, as soon as one need was addressed something else came up… and often two or three challenges pounced at once! Yet each time, even as worries threatened to invade my thoughts, my thanks and prayers turned to God’s provision. As I get older, I am more and more aware of my parents’ model of quiet assurance that God will meet our needs. “One-thing-at-a-time,” my mother would reassure me. They instilled in me an appreciation for the simple, and the calm, and the good in small things. I have learned to enjoy and appreciate what I have rather than always wanting more and I’m growing to trust that things will work out, not always as expected or desired but trusting that good will grow from challenges and needs.

One well-known passage in the Bible, Psalm 23, speaks of God’s provision for us. It doesn’t promise that there will be no dark valleys, but it does promise that God is with us always. What wonderful assurance that we will lack nothing and that we will be refreshed, guided, comforted, and provided for even in the presence of adversity and difficulties! The book of Psalms is full of these reminders.

In the New Testament, Matthew had some great things for us to consider about worry and God’s care for us. “Isn’t life more than food, and the body more than clothes?” Then he reminded us that God knows that we need them. My mom would say, “It’s okay to be concerned but we shouldn’t worry” and Matthew echoed this thought when he said, “Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?”

In this season of gathering and preparation, I pray that we will be strengthened and assured of the provision of God, who cares for us all.

September 15, 2017

Who Are You Jesus?

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Who are you Jesus …
with your piercing eye
and your kind touch?

Who are you Jesus …
who would call me from my tasks?
… A “fisher of men” you say I will be.

Who are you Jesus …
that my heart should race
just to hear your voice?

Who are you Jesus …
that you would accept one such as I,
… reaching out to touch my hand?

Who are you Jesus …
to welcome me into your family
and challenge me to become?

Who are you Jesus?

September 3, 2017

Draw Near

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I love the scents and colors of herbs. In recent years, I have begun learning a bit about how to grow and gather a few of them and about some of their uses. I enjoy my little spots in the flower garden and pots on my sun porch and I help with some at my in-law’s home. “It’s a happy,” as my daughter would say as a child to describe something she liked. Not all my growing attempts are successful, but repeat attempts are sometimes more fruitful after I learn more about them. Some creature (perhaps a rabbit?) thoroughly enjoyed my in-law’s basil this year, which had to be replanted two times! Then too, I find that some plants are just not suited for the areas available, so other plants are found that will flourish there. Herbs, used from ancient times to improve health, to treat illness and injury and to cook with, have much to offer. Like insects, we are drawn to them because they can provide comfort, healing, and enjoyment of growing things.

As I was considering this, I thought of how God wants us to draw near to Him. He loves for us to come to Him and to thank Him when we are enjoying the scents and colors of life. When we draw close to Him we are recognizing who He is. God can show us where we will flourish when we are receptive to His offered gifts and guidance. He is the source of comfort and healing. Have you ever been to the point where you just didn’t know what to say or do, or even if you wanted to try?! While all our “growing” attempts are not successful, God helps us to thrive. I am so thankful for those around me, people who reach out or give a hug or word to help through difficult times and to join in times of celebration. Sometimes we need to be “replanted” and sometimes we need to be faithful and to learn so that we can thrive where we are. I’m so thankful that He is with me, especially on my “I’m just done” days! Draw near. Like insects drawn to herbs, we are drawn to the One who provides, who is the source of life.

But it is good for me to draw near to God; I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all Your works. Psalm 73:28

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you… James 4:6a

August 18, 2017

Breath!

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Have you ever considered how the world would be without the movement of air?! I remember that on hot summer days when I was growing up, we kids would giggle as we spoke into a blowing fan and listened to our strange voices. When I am working with children to improve their speech, they learn about the parts that are used to form words. After we go through the basic tongue, lips, and “motor” (voice box), we try saying a sound without using air. Of course, we can’t!

Some of my favorite camping memories as a girl are of lying in our tent camper at night, listening to the wind sighing in the treetops and feeling its cool touch on my face. I still love to have a window fan blowing in my room on a summer night. My spirit settles as I breath in that fresh stream of air.

The book of Genesis says that when God formed man, He breathed into his nostrils the breath of life. Isaiah referred to “God the Lord… the Creator of the heavens, who stretches them out, who spreads out the earth with all that springs from it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it.” Life is a precious gift, and how often do we misuse it or take it for granted?! Just as no words can be produced without the element of air, so life cannot be fully expressed without God’s breath within us. When I catch myself feeling rushed when going about my busy plans and responsibilities, I remind myself to pause and breath in God’s presence. He is like a cool touch to my hurried soul and fresh strength and peace to my heart.

*Genesis 2:7, Isaiah 42:5

August 4, 2017

DIGGING IN MY TOES!

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Ah! The joy of releasing tired, hot feet from the confines of shoes and socks! My mom and I used to kid about our “hillbilly blood” because our shoes inevitably fell off when we came home. Warm summer rain showers were the perfect opportunity for my brothers and me to splash barefoot up and down our gravel drive in town. On summer trips with the family, I remember digging my toes into the soft warm dirt of my grandparents’ country drive. Have you ever walked through a wet vegetable garden and ended up doubling the thickness of the soles of your shoes with mud?! Just walking becomes an effort.

Sometimes our lives get like that, mired down with stuff that drags us down and overwhelms. We splash barefoot before God in our pain and doubt and it is difficult to see joy. When His wonderful grace and love showers down upon us, we in our weariness do not always see it. We may be unable to receive until it has had time to soak in. I love the words of the psalmist who wrote, (God) lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. * Like on those warm summer days, we can dig our toes into the strength of His being. God lifts us up and sets us on solid ground. What joy and release when we stand with Him in faith, free of the confines of life which weigh us down!

* Psalm 40:2