Renovating my Faith

Path of Blessing

2012-01-13T14:06:00.000-08:00

“You know these things – now do them! That is the path of blessing.” (John 13:17)

“Welcome to your new job! The first thing you’re going to do is sit down here and I, your boss, will wash your feet.”

“Hello, students, before we start our lessons, I’m going to wash everybody’s feet.”

Has this ever happened to you? Probably not! Certainly, this would be most unexpected today, just as it was in ancient times, when it was a slave who washed the feet of his master’s guests. And, yet, Jesus proceeds with a surprising demonstration.

On the night before his crucifixion, Jesus “showed his disciples the full extent of his love” (13:1). Once gathered around the dinner table, Jesus removed his outer robe, wrapped a large towel around his waist, took a basin of water and proceeded to wash the dusty feet of each of his closest friends and followers.

“Lord, why are you going to wash my feet?” exclaimed a confused Simon Peter. Seizing the teachable moment, Jesus explained his actions in terms of serving others. “Do you understand what I was doing? You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because it is true. And, since, I, the Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other’s feet. I have given you an example to follow . . . Now do these things. That is the path of blessing” (13:14, 15, 17).

The path of blessing! Exciting! What is this path, what are its blessings, and how can I act this out in my life?

The Path of Serving:

1. See the need & meet it, without thought of rank, status, or job description! “I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet” (13:14).

2. Serve with humility, by choice! “Don’t be selfish; don’t live to make a good impression on others. Be humble, thinking of others as better as yourself. Don’t think only about your own affairs, but be interested in others, too, and what they are doing. Your attitude should be the same as Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not demand and cling to his rights as God. He made himself nothing; he took the humble position of a slave” (Philippians 2:3-7). (This is different from being a “doormat”, where you are forced to follow commands.)

3. Set aside pride! “The greatest among you must be a servant. But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted” (Matthew 23:11-12).

4. Love others AS Christ loves us. “Just as I have loved you, you should love each other” (John 13:34).

The Blessings of Serving:

1. Confidence before God! By our loving actions, we will know that:

“we are living in [God’s] truth”;

“we will be confident when we stand before the Lord [against condemnation]”;

“we will receive whatever we request because we obey God and do the things that please him” (1 John 18-22).

2. Joy! “Those who obey God’s commands [to love one another as Christ loved us] live in fellowship with him and he with them” (1 John 23-24). What is more joyful than this?!

My Path of Blessing:

Wherever I am, if I see a need and can fill it myself, then I am do that. In my home, I am to lovingly care for family needs and humbly complete household chores, even if some on them seem like drudgery! In my community, both near and global, I am to look for ways to increase the well-being of others through donating my time, money and/or possessions either directly through personal contact or indirectly through charities. With my focus upon Christ & his love for others, I know that God will lead me on his path of blessing. Joy can only be the natural result!

Lord, I praise you for the glorious riches that come to your faithful disciples! Thank you for your Spirit that lives within my heart who directs my actions. “For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need” (Philippians 4:13). As I serve others as you did, Lord, may my confidence strengthen and my joy overflow! May my love for others brightly reflect your love for me! Oh, Lord, how I long for these blessings – keep me on your path! Amen.

Honouring Jesus

2010-06-03T15:51:00.000-07:00

They excitedly checked off their to-do list in preparation for the dinner party. Not only were they expecting their guest of honour, a beloved friend with a one-of-a-kind life, but also many other guests. Everything needed to be just right and ready on time.

“Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor, Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume” John 12:1-3 TNIV.

Lazarus, Martha, and Mary worked together, yet with different roles, to honour Jesus by providing a hearty meal and a gathering place for him and his followers. Imagine their joy to host the party for Jesus, the very man who had brought Lazarus back from the dead just a short time ago. Of course, they would do anything to honour Jesus. Martha, the very practical sister, had cooked the meal, done most of the cleaning, and now was serving the food. She honoured Jesus by meeting his physical needs. Lazarus, in contrast to Martha’s energetic movement around the room, sat contentedly near the one who gave him a second chance at life. Certainly, he was keen to listen to every word Jesus spoke and perhaps to ask questions or make comments now and again. Lazarus honoured Jesus on a more intellectual level by paying attention to his teaching; receiving the wisdom Jesus so much wanted to impart to his followers. Mary, who at an earlier time had been complimented by Jesus for sitting at his feet and listening to him (Luke 10:38-42), took her devotion as step further. All that focus on Jesus, her Saviour, and his message resonated through her soul. In humble reverence, she lavished her worship upon him by pouring her most valuable oil over his feet. Jesus acknowledged her act: “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial” (John 12:7). The lingering fragrance of the perfume reminded everyone of the spiritual honour Mary gave to Jesus. Just as all three siblings honoured Jesus by demonstrating their devotion in different ways, so the same goes for believers today.

How do devoted followers of Jesus honour him today? Certainly, like Martha, we can serve those with needs. Jesus said this about himself, “Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve . . .” (Matthew 20:28). “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (25:40). Providing food, shelter, clothing, and comfort to those in need, in the name of Jesus, honours him. Like Lazarus, we can direct our attention to Jesus Christ by listening to his teaching in sermons, reading and studying the Bible, and spending time talking and listening to him in prayer and quiet time. Like Mary, we can deepen our relationship with our Lord through worship, humble reverence, and sacrificial giving. Believers honour Jesus from their own unique perspective and situation.

How do I honour Jesus? Generally, I honour Jesus by acknowledging that my abilities were given to me by him at my birth and that my successes in life are due to His Spirit living me. Generally, I honour Jesus by obeying his commandments, to the best of my (Spirit-assisted) human ability. Specifically, I forgive others for their transgressions against me because Jesus has already forgiven mine. I serve others in need from a humble realization that I too have needs, although they may be different. This service includes volunteering in Christian organizations that spread the gospel and equip believers to deepen their relationship with God. I am learning to love my enemies in the name of Jesus. Specifically, I read my Bible with joy and anticipation of what Jesus will teach me next. I give thanks for the blessings I receive and for his presence with me in times of trouble. I honour him by asking for his guidance in matters where decisions are required. These are but a few ways that I honour Jesus as my Saviour and Lord.

How about you? Do you have a relationship with Jesus for which you are so thankful that you would like to honour him, too? Notice that I did not say that I cook meals for poor people. Well, that is not my gifting, like it was Martha’s! However, it might be yours. If Jesus means something to you, please find a way to honour him, you will be glad you did!

The Stuck Steer

2010-05-30T12:19:00.000-07:00

Gazing up and around, I soaked in the sight of the ranch land pastures - a kaleidoscope of colour. Greens galore: spring green of new grass and birch leaves, dusty green of fir and pine needles, and evergreen of distant forests. Rusty reds: pine trees devastated by pine beetle armies and fir trees dead from previous drought. Calming neutrals: weather-worn grays of tree bark and fence posts along with milk chocolate browns of the rich soils. This mid-May view was topped with sprinklings of bright sunshine yellow wild sunflowers and dandelions, growing in clumps along the road spreading out into the fields. As I absorbed the serenity of this rural scene, I realized that something was missing! Where were the cattle and sheep that usually dot these rolling hills?

Upon checking in at the ranch where our rental cabin was, I asked the owner where were the cattle. As we do not usually travel this way in the winter, it had not occurred to me that, of course, the ranchers bring their livestock into their barns over the winter. Although the ranch we were at is very large, the owners do not keep their own cattle but rather lease out their pastures to other ranchers who bring the cattle there for the summer. As it turned out, they expected the rancher to start delivering his cattle the next day! Hooray, I thought, I will get to see some real ranching up close!

Fortunately, our cute little log cabin overlooked the corral. About mid-morning, I heard a lot of clattering and other noise. Realizing that the cattle had arrived, I found a spot nearby to watch the procedure. The cattle were loaded off the trailer down through a narrow fenced passage from which they burst out into the large soil-filled corral. Knowing little about the habits of cattle, I watched with interest as they immediately went to the fence to eat the grass growing on the other side. They appeared jubilant at the prospect of eating real grass rather than the hay and other feed they received during the winter. (Really, I am only guessing, here!) I made two observations: they looked like only steers (no females) and I guessed they were about one year old. The cattle trailer left and I wondered what would happen next.

The cattle moved around the corral in herd-mentality formation: one steer moved to a spot then all the others followed. As I watched ten or twelve gather at one end near a gate, I noticed some rapid movement within the pack. Were they trying to rustle each other out of the way, or was it just playful interaction? Some of the cattle moved away and I saw that one was kicking his rear legs and swinging his rear-end back and forth. What was going on? I watched through my camera’s telephoto lens for a closer view. Curiously, it appeared that, while reaching for the grass under and beyond the fence, a steer had got his head stuck between some metals bars of the gate! Feeling a mixture of amazement and pity, I watched and wondered how the steer would free itself. By this time, the herd had moved to the other end of the corral, but when they realized something was wrong many returned to keep the stuck steer company (if cattle really had that instinct). After a few minutes, though, the herd returned to feeding at other places along the fence. My amazement and pity turned to cautious desperation – no one was around to help the steer. What should I do? I put on my boots and coat thinking I should let the landowner know, even though the cattle were not her responsibility. As I hesitated, not sure where to find her on the very large property, the solution came into view.

A pickup truck with three sheepdogs in the back came up the road pulling a horse trailer. Out jumped the rancher dressed in the essential cowboy outfit: felt hat, boots with spurs (!), jeans with a large silver belt buckle and a classic cowboy shirt. Help had arrived! I walked toward him. “Hello there! Are you in charge of these cattle?” “Yes.” “Just want you to know that one is stuck in the bars of the gate.” Now everything would be fine so I returned to my viewpoint perch and watched the rescue begin.

The rancher pulled his horse out of the trailer, securing ropes to the saddle while commanding his dogs to remain in the pickup truck (presumably not needing them for this rescue operation.) The landowner joined him (a cowgirl in her own right) but cell phone calls to several others for help were unanswered. Having moved much closer to the excitement, I listened to the conversation between to two as they discussed various solutions to free the steer. Apparently, the steer had turned his head on an angle sideways to reach through the bars of the gate to the grass, but now could not figure out how to turn his head that same way to escape. “Cows are stupid!” the rancher said. Although both ranchers tried to turn the steer’s head with their hands, it was too heavy and the steer too stubborn to comply. The solution: get the steer to lie down on his side so that his head would be turned sideways and then they could pull him out. Easier said than done! After many attempts with the ropes and much pulling, they got the steer to lie down. Then using the ropes they had tied around the rear legs, the rancher, on horseback, pulled the steer and his head came free! Seeming not worse for the trouble, he quickly got up and trotted over to his friends with much moo-ing in greeting! What a relief! I quickly returned to my safe viewing perch, now out of the way of the rancher as he opened the gate and, with his dogs’ help, moved the cattle from the corral out to the nearby pasture.

As this rescue scene unfolded in front of me, another story of rescue came to mind: the Parable of the Lost Sheep that Jesus told his disciples while speaking to them about the importance of children in the Kingdom of Heaven.

“If a shepherd has one hundred sheep, and one wanders away and is lost, what will he do? Won’t he leave the ninety-nine others and go out into the hills to search for the lost one? And if he finds it, he will surely rejoice over it more than over the ninety-nine that didn’t wander away! In the same way, it is not my heavenly Father’s will that even one of these little ones should perish” (Matthew 18: 12-14).

How wonderful that God provided me with this real-live picture of His concern for each one of us. How thankful I am that Jesus rescued me from eternal death so that I may live with Him in heaven forever. Even when I wandered away from the relationship I had started with Him, He kept watching out for me and met me in my time of trouble, forgiving me for my sins against Him, and welcoming me back into the arms of His family.

Dear Reader, if you have wandered away from God and now feel lost without Him or are in deep trouble, call out to Jesus and He will come to your rescue. Do not delay, for it is better to be in His corral under His protection than out in the wilderness!

Out of the Dark, into the Light

2010-05-10T21:44:00.000-07:00

“God is light; in him, there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth” 1 John 1:6 NIV.

Ok, I confess, I am a liar! This verse makes it clear to me. Now I see that I have been walking in darkness; yet still claiming to have a relationship with God. What is “walking in darkness”? How do we know when we are “walking in darkness”?

Darkness is anything that is not about God, because it is not light. Darkness is an attachment, or attraction to, a thing, idea, or person who is not of God. Darkness, bondage, strongholds – all these stop us from experiencing our full godly potential. They are the weapons of the evil spiritual forces and powers that aim to divert us from God’s light (Ephesians 6:12).

Through prayer, God revealed to me certain areas of darkness in my life. Through reflection of my current state of mind and body, God revealed the lies and deceptions in one area of my life. (Yes, one thing at a time!) I have been in the dark and it is not pretty. Mental confusion, emotional heartache, physical pain, and spiritual loss – they are all there in the darkness.

In the darkness, my mind holds onto statements of my uselessness. “I don’t have the abilities to serve God the way I think he is calling me, such as writing the faith stories of other Christians.” “No one wants to share their story for the purpose of encouraging others on their faith journey.” “Everyone wants to keep their struggles to themselves.”

In the darkness, my heart aches as I grow sad about my uselessness. Depression comes on – “I can barely think straight enough to write anything.” Hope is lost – “What’s the use of even thinking about writing.” Anger strikes out – “What is the matter with me?” Frustration overtakes – “If I can’t write, what else can I do?”

In the darkness, my body aches as my arthritis flares up. A tension headache lasts for several days, sometimes forcing me to lie down and do nothing. My lower back stiffens up more than usual. “Why won’t the pain go away? Am I going to die?”

In the darkness, my spirit searches for God, but finds only dark. “God must think very little of my abilities. I must be a low priority to him.”

Stop already! Barb - turn to God! Pick up your Bible and meet him there in his Word! He is there, waiting for you to focus on him!

Jesus spoke, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” John 8:12.

Yes! That’s it! I remember! Somehow I got sidetracked by subtle evil ways. Oh, no more!

In the light, my mind focuses on “whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, praiseworthy” (Philippians 4:8). In fact, God did give me abilities: “A spiritual gift is given to each of us as a means of helping the entire church” (1 Corinthians 12:7 NLT). What joy!

In the light, my heart recognizes the fruit of the Spirit that lives in me: “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Galatians 5:22). I am not useless – I can use all of these great qualities to make a difference in people’s lives!

In the light, my body, ahhhh; the pain has subsided. A day with only one pain pill needed. Movement is improved – I can get out and about to serve others in the name of Christ.

In the light, my spirit bathes in God’s point of view about me: “Barb, I have examined your heart and know everything about you. I know when you sit down or stand up. I know your every thought even when I am far away. I, Almighty God, have charted the path ahead of you and tell you where to stop and rest. Every moment I know where you are . . . I go before you and follow you . . . I place my hand of blessing on your head . . . you can never escape from my Spirit and my presence . . . I made all the delicate, inner parts of your body and knit them together in your mother’s womb . . . You are wonderfully complex and marvelously constructed – how well you know it! . . . I have precious thoughts about you, so many they outnumber the grains of sand . . . When you wake up I am there for you!” (based on Psalm 139).

O Lord, now I know when I am walking in the light! Help me to weld these truths to my mind and my heart. You do have special work for me to do – I just need to pray, watch, and walk on your path. O Lord, your Word is my focus; forgive me when it is not. You give me mercy, forgiveness and love. I am out the dark, and in the light! Praise to you, Lord!

Postscript: Beloved reader: On the same day that I post this blog entry, a friend sent me someone's faith story that needs editing! God is indeed faithful!

Still a Rebel!

2010-05-06T13:15:00.000-07:00

They are sitting there on my kitchen counter where I am easily reminded to take them - my numerous health supplements, that is. Frequently, I ignore them, then wonder why I have health issues. Today, I saw them again, but stopped in my tracks just out of arm’s reach . . . the voices in my head spoke with raised pitch:

Me: What is the matter with me? Why don’t I just take these health supplements as prescribed? I am such a rebel! Why does good health require following so many daily habits?

Good Voice: You know you want good health. The supplements are good for you. Go ahead.

Bad Voice: Surely you can do without them. Surely, God will heal you without you having to go to the effort to take them every day.

Good Voice: It’s a simple thing just to take them. Just imagine how healthy your body will be with the proper nutrients inside it.

Me: Right! I’ve been saying to myself and my kids, “Take care of your body now, so that in 20 years it will be healthy.” I certainly don’t want to be a hypocrite, OR a bad example.

Bad Voice: But, really, you’re not that sick now, are you?

Me: Well, it’s not like I’m bed-ridden . . .

Good Voice: But you might be in 20 years if you don’t take care of these things now. Be good to yourself - just take the supplements!

Me: Hmm, do I want to be good to myself? I’d have to give up some attitudes such as self-pity, stubbornness, and using my aches and pains as excuses to avoid certain activities. These changes may make me more available to serve God – I am scared of the unknown!

Bad Voice: Right, you don’t like change, even your family has made that observation about you. And, who really knows if you’re going to live for another 20 years anyway!

Good Voice: Beloved, this is what God says to you:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seek me. I will be found by you,” says the Lord. “I will end your captivity and restore your fortunes.” Jeremiah 29: 11-13 NLT

Good Voice: Since God loves you so much and has so many wonderful plans for you, he wants you to be healthy enough to enjoy them. He’s even provided us with knowledge on how to keep our bodies as healthy as possible. God knows your body and wants you take these supplements, AND, I might add, go for your walks.

Me: Lord, help me; help me to love myself as much as you do! Spirit – block these Bad Voices, send them away, in the name of Jesus Christ. Lord, release me from the captivity of negative thoughts, poor self-image and rebellion. Help me to focus only on your Voice. May I happily accept the necessities of these daily health regimens! May I look with hope to the blessings you have prepared for me. Thank you, Lord!

Looking for Lucy

2010-04-28T21:31:00.000-07:00

Over the past several months, I have been researching my family history. While one side of my family’s genealogy had been extensively written by my father, another branch was yet-to-be discovered. Starting with some notes and letters left by my grandparents, followed by much searching through England censuses of the 1800s and other on-line websites and resources, my father and I unearthed quite a substantial family tree. We found old photos, interesting newspaper articles, military service records, and grave stone inscriptions which helped to bring to life the bare facts of our ancestors’ lives. Of course, we do not know their personalities or how they handled life’s blessings and challenges, but we do read history books and historical novels to get the general impression of daily life back then. Requiring great detective work, thinking out of the box, and utilizing persistence and patience, I have enjoyed the journey back in time. Although I did not want to study history in high school, due to its focus on memorizing dates and names, I am, however, very interested in how people lived! As my father and I are now reaching the end of our project, we remain challenged to satisfactorily discover all the basic facts of one of my great grandmothers. We are looking for Lucy!

While Lucy is part of my earthly heritage, some time ago, there was someone in my spiritual heritage for whom I was searching. Although I had found him once, I lost track of God and when I realized he was missing I started looking for him in all the wrong places. Self-help books, new age philosophies, science, and nature – my search was never satisfied. Then I realized where I could find him – in his very own book, the Holy Bible. He had wonderfully inspired his story (2 Timothy 3:16) to be written by people so that we may know all about him as well as know him through and by what we read in the Bible. So many things we learn about God including:

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” Genesis 1:1.

“For God will break the chains that bind his people . . . For a child is born to us, a son is given to us . . . These will be his royal titles: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. His ever expanding peaceful government will never end. He will rule forever with fairness and justice . . . the passionate commitment of the LORD Almighty will guarantee this!” Isaiah 9: 4-7.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God did not send his Son into the World to condemn it, but to save it” John 3:16.

“Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me,” spoken by Jesus in John 14:11.

“And in the future you will see me, the Son of Man, sitting at God’s right hand in the place of power and coming back on the clouds of heaven,” spoken by Jesus in Matthew 26:64.

Well, I could go on, but I recommend that you discover God for yourself by reading the Bible. Ask God to enlighten you as to his true wonderful nature. I never tire of meeting God when I read the Bible – he always amazes me!

In my search for Lucy, I sent a letter of inquiry to a name and address in England that might be of my second cousin. Not knowing if I had the right address or how my letter would be received, I was thrilled when they sent back a kind response and a photo of my great grandmother Lucy. Now, I can see her likeness, but I still do not KNOW her. By contrast, as I read God’s Bible, I not only see his likeness through the word pictures presented there, but also, through his very own Spirit’s presence within my being, I actually KNOW God! This is certainly far more exciting!!

Lord – thank you for the Bible and for sending me your Spirit so that I may know you personally. Thank you that you are not only part of my history, but also you are part of my present and future. Amen.

A Bride-to-Be

2010-04-28T11:29:00.000-07:00

Glowing, smiling, sparkling eyes, a joyful cadence in her voice, lightness in her step! All these I noticed in the bride-to-be at the wedding shower. Half way from her engagement to the wedding, her friends and family joined to celebrate her good fortune and encourage her in her preparations. Of course, an important role, and pleasure, for the guests was to bring gifts that were both practical and decorative for her to use in her new home with her future husband. Although she and her fiancé have almost seven months to prepare for the big day, they have been preparing for their life together for much longer. Discovering each other’s unique personal characteristics, learning how to bring positive resolutions to times of conflict, but mostly, sharing an unconditional love for each other. Such is an earthly example of a much more splendid heavenly relationship.

“Hallelujah! For the Lord our God, the Almighty, reigns. Let us be glad and rejoice and honor him. For the time has come for the wedding feast of the Lamb, and his bride has prepared herself. She is permitted to wear the finest white linen” Revelation 19:6-8 NLT.

Frequently throughout the Bible, Jesus is depicted as the Bridegroom, and his followers (Christians) are his bride. The Book of Revelation depicts a great time of celebration when Jesus, the victor over evil, is united for eternity with his believers. As with many concepts in the Bible, there is an element of the past, the present, and the future all happening at once. In this case, when we believed that Jesus is our Lord and Saviour, we became his. Yet, every day, we are becoming his in a fresh new way. Then, when Jesus returns to earth in his glory, we will become his bride at the wedding feast. “Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb” (Rev. 19:9).

One key point is that the bride, in the passage from Revelation, “prepared herself”. She had already learned who Jesus is, discovered his majesty, and committed herself to him. They were already in a relationship. So it is, when you and I are followers of Jesus. I have learned and am learning everyday the glorious characteristics of Jesus. Psalm 45 describes some of them: he is the most handsome of all, gracious words stream from his lips, and he blesses me forever. He is a mighty warrior who rides out to victory defending truth, humility and justice. My Lord performs awe-inspiring deeds. He loves what is right and hates what is wrong. He pours joy on his people. My royal husband delights in my beauty and I honour him with my best gifts. I do believe that Jesus is my Lord and Saviour. Everyday, I am preparing my heart for the big day, the wedding feast of Jesus, the Lamb of God. Everyday, my challenge is to reflect the light and love of Jesus so that others may know whose bride I am. Then one day, I will join him at the greatest wedding feast of all time! Hallelujah, indeed!

“The bride, a princess, waits within her chamber, dressed in a gown woven with gold. In her beautiful robes, she is led to the king, accompanied by her bridesmaids. What a joyful, enthusiastic procession as they enter the king’s palace!” Psalm 45:13-15.

Beloved friend, when Jesus comes knocking at the door to your heart, how can you say no? His power, majesty, and glory surround us, drawing us closer to him. Accept his proposal of marriage, grow in your relationship with him, and in humble reverence, prepare yourself to be counted as the “Bride of Christ”! Do not miss this opportunity!

Breaking Free

2010-03-24T12:40:00.000-07:00

Captivity, bondage, oppression, strongholds, unproductive, impoverished! Spoken with emphasis and concern, these words greeted me as I watched the first video of a Bible Study series called, Breaking Free, by Beth Moore. An animated speaker, she challenged her audience: Are you captive to ideas, experiences, or influences that rob you from living God's abundant plan for your life? Do you seek what is comfortable, rather than step out in faith? Are you satisfied with your relationship with Christ?

"So Christ has really set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don't get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1 NLT

In this Scripture, the Apostle Paul refers to Christ's death and resurrection that paid the price for our sins against God and that set us free to have a righteous relationship with Him. I accept Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour - I am FREE in Christ right now! Paul further warns us, though, that once we have accepted Christ's salvation, we must avoid following new "Christian" rules or other people-created methods and regulations that end up restricting our Christian life; that put us in bondage. Yes, I want to stay free!! I want the abundant life that was promised by God through the prophet Isaiah long before the birth of Jesus: comfort for my broken heart, release from captivity of earthly detrimental matters, beauty for ashes, joy instead of mourning, praise instead of despair, and growth through His strength and grace (Isaiah 61:1-3).

Now, here is the tricky part. Am I actually in bondage to something, or someone? Why am I in this Bible Study? Beth listed several types of bondage: low self-esteem, lust, sexual sin, homosexuality, inability to love others, compulsion to steal, habitual dishonesty, insecurity, critical and judgmental toward others, bitterness, anger, doubt, discouragement, loneliness, and chronic lack of satisfaction. Having trouble admitting to myself of any area of bondage, I wondered what the challenges were for the other women in the room. Nice try, Barb! Do not pretend you do not have issues! I refocus on what God might be thinking about me. Oh, how about: delusion! God must want me to pay attention to this course work. He must want me to break free from any strongholds put on me by the evil one who opposes God. Yes! Now, like the torrent of a waterfall, they come to mind. What about my bouts of depression that keep me from effectively interacting with others in Christ's name? What about my complacency about the evil I see around me? What about the dreams I have that I think God placed in my heart, but have not done much to bring them to fruition? What about my need for approval?

OK, God, I submit! Please open my heart to allow you to clear out any areas of bondage that hinder me from experiencing the full life you want for me. You alone will strengthen me to face these things and release them. You alone are trustworthy. You alone created the goodness in this world. You alone have the best in mind for me. You alone are my all and all!

"Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is FREEDOM!" (2 Corinthians 3:17)

Beth throws down the gauntlet: Make a daring escape!

Barb's Olympic Adventures

2010-02-24T15:47:00.000-08:00

Hello, Friends!

I've been busy this month with the 2010 Vancouver Olympics! Been attending events, standing in lines to view various national pavilions and outdoor exhibits, and just soaking up the Olympic vibe by being downtown in the throngs of Olympic fans!

I'll be back in March with my renovation blogs! See you then!

Compassion Challenge - Results

2010-01-21T23:37:00.000-08:00

Reading scripture, earlier this month, presented me with a challenge: Since Jesus is the radiance of God’s Glory (Hebrews 1:3), and since I have Jesus in my heart, what I am doing take to shine this light?? (Please see blogs of January 3 and 4.) It has been almost 3 weeks now that I have focused on showing compassion. Here is my report:

In Scripture, we read that Jesus went to the people as well as they tracked him down in order to receive healing, and even life.

What I did not do:
I did not go to the street people who are needy because I was not sure what I could offer them, in physical terms. I probably should not go by myself. If I want to do this, I need to go with someone who knows what they are doing.

What I did do:
1. I had two opportunities when I wanted to make a snarky comment, but reminded myself that, “Jesus loves this person, too,” so kept my mouth closed.
2. In conjunction with the senior’s home at which I am now a volunteer, I joined some of the residents on a shopping trip to the local Wal-Mart. I got to push a wheelchair with Lucy in it and help her with some purchases. With my focus on compassion, I reminded myself that I was there to serve her needs, whatever was within the scope of my “volunteer” job description. I focused on being patient, pleasant, and helpful, all aspects of showing compassion.

One day I saw on Facebook that one of my South African friends wrote this: “I invited a Zimbabwean lady (Memory) & her baby begging at the traffic light into church yesterday. A blessing for both of us. She left with some food and maybe some hope, too. "Everyone needs compassion... my God is mighty to save."
Hooray – someone is showing compassion!

Then, January 12 – the earthquake in Haiti. Extreme devastation, destruction and death. Rescue, recovery, and rebuilding. Now was my time to act compassionately – I could donate to one of the many charities sending aid to Haiti. But, as I watched the TV reports, I became rather confused about which aid organization to support. One of them, I am already a regular contributor, so that would be easy. Should I jump to get my chequebook out, or give online? It is now 10 days later, and I have not made a donation. What difference can my small donation make? Of course, many small donations add up . . . How does God want me to contribute? Oh, how I would love to adopt several orphans, or go there and help in an orphanage! The first is unrealistic; the second may be something for the future. God is telling me that writing a cheque is too easy; getting my hands involved in needed. Conveniently, my church is organizing practical donations for a group already working in Haiti with orphans. I will join their compassionate efforts.

Well, that is all for now. I am rather disappointed with the results of my compassion assignment. I did not turn into Mother Theresa this month, but did get involved with some seniors who had a need that I could fill. I could not go to Haiti to hold the orphans, but I will help with meeting their needs. These are a good start at shining Jesus’ light in the community and the world!

In February, watch for the next Radiance Challenge!

Radiance Challenge – Compassion

2010-01-04T21:59:00.000-08:00

My article called, His Radiance (Jan. 2010), describes the challenge that God put before me: to display Christ’s radiance (God’s glory) through the personal expression of various Christ-like virtues.

Challenge #1 – Compassion

Definition:
Latin: com=with, pati=to suffer
Greek: splagchnizomai = to have one’s bowels yearn; to sympathize, to pity; to be moved with compassion; a gut feeling
Noun: the sharing of/understanding of/concern for another’s suffering or misfortunes
Adjective: compassionate.
Synonyms: sympathy, pity, care, concern, sensitivity, warmth, love, tenderness, mercy, kindness, charity
Antonyms: indifference, cruelty

Some Biblical Examples:
Matthew 9:35-36 “Jesus went through all the towns and villages . . . and healing every disease and sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.”

Matthew 14:13-14 “When Jesus heard what had happened [about the death of John the Baptist], he withdrew by boat privately to a solitary place. Hearing of this, the crowds followed him on foot from the towns. Then Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them and healed their sick.”

Matthew 15:32 “Jesus went up on a mountainside and sat down. Great crowds came to him, bringing the lame, the blind, the crippled, the mute and many others, and laid them at his feet; and he healed them . . . Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way . . . Then he took the seven loaves and the fish and when he had given thanks, he broke them and gave them to the disciples, and they in turn to the people. They all ate and were satisfied . . . the number of those who ate was four thousand men, besides women and children.”

Matthew 18:21-35 The Parable of the Unmerciful Servant – Jesus tells the story of a master who is faced with a distraught servant who cannot pay back his debt to the master. After begging for mercy, the master “took pity on him, canceled the debt and let him go.” (There is more to this story – I will leave it to you to read).

Reflection:
Jesus went to the people in need, ready to respond as appropriate.
Jesus had compassion on the sick, the helpless, the diseased, the hungry and the distressed.
Even when his solitude was interrupted, Jesus still displayed compassion.
Jesus received the needy that came to him, or were brought by others.
When Jesus saw the needs of the people (physical, mental, emotional, spiritual) he had such a gut-wrenching reaction that he had to respond.

Our mission:
Let us follow Jesus’ example of extending compassion to others. Look for needs to be met; go to people who are needy to investigate how we can help. FEEL the suffering of others IN OUR GUT and RESPOND in some way to give relief. May the Lord enable us to display compassion.

Focus on Compassion for the next week or so and let us see what God can do through us!

His Radiance!

2010-01-03T19:36:00.000-08:00

In describing Jesus Christ, the author of the Letter to the Hebrews says:

“The Son is the radiance of God’s glory . . . ” (Hebrews 1:3 TNIV).

What a beautiful way to describe Jesus! Radiance. I let the word settle into my soul.

What is it?
Radiance: the quality of an object emitting light or heat; filled with light and overflowing; bright; glowing; beaming; brilliance; luster;
Radiance: the quality of a person emitting joy, exuberance, euphoria, happiness, delight, pleasure.
Other Bible versions describe Christ’s radiance as;
the “sole expression of God; the Light-being, the out-raying of the divine” (Amplified Bible); “the Son reflects God’s own glory” (NLT).

What does it look like?
Small clues come from the report of three of the apostles who viewed Christ’s radiance when He took them up a mountain (Mark 9:3, Matt 17:2). Different Bible translations describe what they saw:
“His appearance changed from the inside out, right before their eyes. His clothes shimmered, glistening white, whiter than any bleach could make them” (The Message).
“As the men watched, Jesus’ appearance changed so that his face shone like the sun, and his clothing became dazzling white” (NLT).

“And he was transfigured before them and became resplendent with divine brightness. And His garments became glistening, intensely white” (Amplified).

Of course, artists through the ages have painted their vision of this event (Christ's Transfiguration) from their imagination (or divine inspiration). Here is the top part of a 15-foot high panel painted by Raphael in 1517.

What is significant about Christ’s radiance?
Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t be stumbling through the darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life” (John 8:12 NLT). In Matthew 5:14-16, Jesus said to his disciples, “You are the light of the world - like a city on a mountain, glowing in the night for all to see. Don’t hide your light under a basket! Instead, put it on a stand and let it shine for all. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.”

After reflecting on the word “radiance” and how it might look on Jesus, the question struck me: Since I have Jesus in my heart, how am I shining his radiance out to the world around me? This is the challenge! While the Bible describes many ways to radiate Christ’s character, the Holy Spirit pointed out one passage in particular: Col 3:12-17. Here are the key components of the radiant Christ-like “clothing” we are to wear:

compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiving, peaceful, cooperative, thankful, Bible-focused, and above all, let love be your “basic, all-purpose garment”. Do everything in the Name of Jesus.

I let out a slow whistle as I absorbed this list of ingredients for radiance! Dear God, how can I ever do all these things? (pause . . . listening . . .) That is it! A challenge: focus on one of these virtues at a time over the next few months – then, surely, people will see Christ’s radiance emanating from me, too!

Dear readers, are you up for this challenge too? Follow along as I explore and practice each of these virtues.

Dear Lord, thank you for sharing your radiance with us. Infuse us with your love so that we may wear your character each day as we interact with those around us. May we let your Holy Spirit guide us and mould us into your radiance! Amen.

(the first challenge will be posted soon)

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-13T19:16:00.000-08:00

Greetings, my dear readers!

May the light of Jesus shine in your heart this Christmas season and be reflected outward for all to see!
Thanks for walking with me this year on my faith journey. See you in the New Year!

Barbara

In a Nutshell - attempt #3

2009-11-30T00:30:00.000-08:00

This continues the "In a Nutshell" series. Since writing #1 and #2, I have mulled over the difference between my chronological story and my story of hope - I was getting a little confused! Thankfully, God chose to enlighten and bless me with some clarification.

Thanks to some timely preaching, I realize that there are two kinds of summaries Christians should be prepared to share. The first one describes the facts of the Gospel of Jesus Christ: about creation, sin, the need for Jesus, his death on the cross and resurrection, and the benefits for those who accept this good news and commit to Jesus as their Lord and Saviour. This is an historical and chronological account similar to Stephen’s speech in form and function. The second kind of summary describes the personal experience of living with Jesus in one’s heart and the profound difference it has made in a believer’s life. With both summaries, a believer can not only tell the good news about Jesus Christ, but also allow one’s own personal story of transformation to encourage the listener to seriously consider becoming a Christian. It is the second summary (3 minutes long) that I wish to present today. Imagine I am speaking excitedly!

(Start)
Friend – I’m glad you asked what it means to me to be a Christian; to have Jesus as my Lord and Saviour:

First of all, it means I am connected to God. His Spirit moved into my body and my life once I accepted Jesus. The Spirit is the bridge between my heart and God's, so now, I am connected to God forever! Before becoming a Christian, my sins separated me from God. But, since Jesus died on the cross to pay the penalty for my sins, my slate is wiped clean and I am OK'd to be in His presence.

I have hope for an eternal future in heaven with Jesus after I die. God’s word says that anyone who believes that Jesus is the Son of God will go to heaven. Have you heard about heaven? There will be no more crying, no more sorrow, and no more pain; just joy being in the presence of God Himself. The beauty of the Light of Jesus will shine on us and sparkle way more than all the jewels on earth put together. Can you begin to imagine it??

Now that God’s Spirit lives in me, He gives me the ability to accomplish His plans. I now rely on Him to give me strength, wisdom, and skill to complete the good works He wants me to do. For sure, I still get nervous and sometimes have doubts about my ability to perform certain tasks, but once I remember that God’s Spirit is empowering me, I breathe deeply and take the first step - totally focused on the task, not my doubts. These abilities and others are His gifts to believers. And, guess what? They are available to you too, if you accept Jesus into your life.

And, peace: the more I pray, the less I worry. It’s like a switch, as soon as I notice that I am worrying, I turn my focus to God, then relax, knowing that His power and control is over every situation. I trust God to do His best – this gives me assurance and peace. It has certainly taken me awhile to “let go and let God”, but the more I get the hang of it, the more peace I experience.

Jesus gives me a life with purpose and passion! The Bible says that God planned all the days of my life before I was born. No matter what happens to me, good or bad, He has a special purpose just for me in each situation. Every day I trust Him for a good outcome. He leads me to meet and influence certain people in ways that only I can. He gives me projects that will benefit others. Through the daily process of listening to God, I am learning to trust Him more, especially when I would choose another direction. Each morning, I wake up excited about the opportunity to participate in God’s world, in His way!

Finally, love: God loves me unconditionally. Now that makes my heart melt! He chose me before my birth to be His child. He forgives my sins. He is patient with me. He lavishes me with His grace and mercy. He protects me from evil forces. I am his beloved daughter for whom He would do anything. Oh, wait! He already did – He sent His son Jesus to save me from eternal death. Oh, I am so thankful! God loves you too and wants to call you His child. What do you say?
(Finished)

Well, dear reader – thanks for “listening”! It is a little over 3 minutes, but, in a nutshell, it summarizes my hope and joy in believing in Jesus Christ. May you also be blessed by God’s presence!

In a Nutshell - attempt #2

2009-11-18T23:02:00.001-08:00

This posting follows "In a Nutshell - attempt #1" (please read it first) as I formulate a 3-minute monologue that shares my Christian testimony. I am taking on this challenge also in response to the Apostle Paul's advice to young pastor Peter:

"Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect . . ."
1 Peter 3:15 (TNIV)

So, my testimony, although may include some of my personal history, is more about explaining the hope I have with living my life in Jesus. Here's my attempt #2:

At age 12, during my third annual trip to a Christian summer camp, I became convinced that, first of all, there is a God, and second of all, that Jesus is the Son of God and our Saviour. I accepted Jesus into my heart and asked Him to help me obey and follow Him in all areas of my life. So began the first spiritual chapter in my life consisting of many years of seesawing back and forth between living a faithful life and living a disobedient life. I loved Jesus and loved studying the Bible to learn more about Him and about how He wanted me to live. Unfortunately, I often did not live my life according to what God wanted, so my prayers contained many confessions and requests for forgiveness. In my heart, I knew God forgave me each time. I leaned on Christ’s presence within me especially during the many typical teenage challenges that I faced with my parents, my peers, and the maturing process. But, sadly, I took advantage of God’s forgiveness by frequently behaving in my own wisdom, which was contrary to God’s.

The second chapter of my Christian life, during my twenties and thirties, was a life spent mostly without Christ leading to a search for personal significance. Over time, I kept my belief in god, the impersonal power that created the universe, but left Jesus behind. As a result, a very subtle emptiness grew deep down in my soul leading me to search for life’s meaning in various New Age philosophies. Embracing their versions of self-empowerment for a while, gave me personal strength, but, unfortunately, that feeling did not last as I realized that I could not control my own circumstances. I realized the New Age schemes were empty of real meaning; they did not offer any lasting significance, power, or personal satisfaction. I yearned for a close relationship with God, but looked in all the wrong places. The spiritual darkness that enveloped me which at one time lured me away from Jesus, now actually forced me to call out to God in desperation.

Dire personal circumstances plus relationships with neighbours and business associates who were Christians opened the current chapter of my Christian life. Fortunately, God had his eye on me and ever so gently drew me back to his Son, Jesus, for a more complete relationship. Only in hindsight, could I see that God placed people in my life that offered a Christian perspective on everything. What could I have been thinking all these years? How could I think that I had enough power to affect the outcome of my own life? My heart went from a desperate emptiness to a bursting joy when I recommitted my life to Jesus! In Jesus, I have trust that He will always be with me; strength to accomplish all that He directs me to do; significance because he loved me first; hope to join Him in heaven when I die; and peace to rest in His grace and mercy. The End.

My Comments: Well, did you become convinced that you should check out this Jesus character? Well, this may be slightly improved, but still reads like an essay; still coming from the brain. Where is my heart-felt response? I need to get down to the nitty-gritty of sharing the reason for the hope that I have. Please read "In a Nutshell - attempt #3" . . .

In a Nutshell - attempt #1

2009-11-18T22:21:00.001-08:00

“Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham . . . 'and go to the land I will show you’ . . . Moses was born . . . the time of David . . . You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit! . . . And now you have betrayed and murdered the Righteous One.” Acts 7 TNIV; spoken by the soon-to-be-martyred Stephen.

Stephen, a first century Christian believer, stood in front of the Jewish leaders (the Sanhedrin) accused of calling Jesus, the carpenter from Nazareth, the long-awaited-for Messiah. In his own defense, Stephen encapsulated the whole of the Old Testament ‘in a nutshell’, showing them that by accepting Jesus as the Messiah that he was embracing the prophecies of their very own people. Just as centuries of a nation's history can be reduced to several highlights, so our own decades of personal history can be reduced to the major events that influenced the directions our lives have taken. Occasionally, Christian evangelists challenge believers to practice telling their spiritual journey, or Christian testimony, in a 3-minute version as sometimes that is all the time we have to share our story about what Jesus means to us. In taking up the challenge, I present a condensed version of my story. Get your stopwatch ready!

Attempt #1: I was born to parents who may have called themselves “Christian” because of their parents’ influence and because when they did enter a religious building, it was a Christian church. I was christened when I was a baby and dropped off at Sunday school when I was 5 and 6. At age 10, my parents kindly sent me to a Christian summer camp, where they knew God and Jesus would be discussed. I absolutely loved camp; it was for two weeks and I asked to go again the next year. They consented, so again I had two weeks of Christian input along with all the fun outdoor & water activities that camps provide. The third year, at age 12, I went for one month. This was the summer that I accepted Jesus into my heart and asked him to help me follow His Way in all areas of my life. This was just before I entered secondary school.

Grades 8 to 12 were a seesaw of obeying and disobeying God. Throughout Grade 8, at my own request, I attended classes at my local Church and was “confirmed as a believer” that June. I took myself to church services and my parents drove me to youth group. I prayed, read the Bible, and attended Bible studies. However, the seesaw frequently tipped in the other direction when I partook in behaviors not approved by Jesus. Throughout these years, I continued going to summer camp where I loved being cocooned in the wonderful Christian atmosphere. The result of these seesaw years, is that my prayers were full of confessions and pleas for forgiveness!

My young adult life started with one year of university, at which point I continued the seesaw existence: partying, going to church and Bible studies, followed by more partying. After that, once out in the workforce, I rented a cabin at Whistler so that I could ski every weekend. I loved to ski and directed all my energies into skiing as often as possible. Now the seesaw lay heavily on the partying side as I stopped going to church. By the time my future husband met me, there was no real evidence of a Christian commitment.

Although I had stopped going to church, I still believed in God, so we were married in a church and had our first two children christened. I attended church services when I could. Later, after moving and an absence from Christianity, I explored new age philosophies and brought my husband and then three children to other places of worship. Mistakenly, I thought that maybe my husband would embrace one of these other beliefs with me and then we would at least have the same faith. This petered out though, as our fourth child and another move made going to Sunday services and weekday classes inconvenient.

Over the next three years, though, God had a plan to draw me back to Him. He placed different people in our lives and, incredibly, my husband became a Christian and I recommitted my life to God. We joined our local church and with the children became active members there. One of the happiest days of my life was March 1996, when we were all baptized! Finally, my searching and yearning for meaning in my life had come to fruition. Although I had taken my eyes of Jesus, He, being the Good Shepherd, kept looking for me to return. Since then, I have been 100% committed to following Jesus on whatever path He has for me. The end.

My Comments:
After saying this aloud, I admit that this is a very boring chronological summary of my life inserting the relevant facts regarding God in my life. So I ask myself: What did I say that would lead another into becoming a Christian? Did I share my reasons for becoming a Christian? What difference does it make in my life to have Jesus in my heart? This 'nutshell' does nothing to answer these questions. Therefore, I will try again! Please read: In a Nutshell - attempt #2.

End of waiting!

2009-10-23T13:14:00.000-07:00

Went to see the doctor this morning.
Doc: "Oh, yes, I remember you."
Me: "Yes, you managed to quickly get the ultra-sound appointment for me. Thank you!"
Doc: "So, you want to know the results?"
Me: "Yes, please!"
Doc: (turning toward the computer screen) "Usually the radiologist sends me a quick note if there is something of concern, and I didn't get anything."
Me: "Good, I would expect that, but was told the results would take a week to get to you."
Doc: (reading the report on the computer) "You have a fibroid."
Me: "and that's all?" starting to heave a sigh of relief.
Doc: "yes, that's it."

Whew! and Praise the Lord that it wasn't anything else more serious!

A fibroid is an abnormal growth of the uterine muscle. Unless it, or they, grow too big and become uncomfortable, painful, or start bleeding, nothing is done about them. So he said that they can be monitored with future ultrasounds, but if you're not having any problems, no need to do anything. At my annual checkups, the doc can keep tabs on it.

Mike came with me, so when the appointment ended, we had a hug of relief. I almost felt like crying for joy, but didn't. Maybe later.

Despite the JOY of the good news, I was a little annoyed that the doc's office hadn't called to let me know the results were in. As you know, from my earlier blogs, I made the appointment ahead of time, in the hope that the results would be in. Because the results "required no further action", the doc's office practice is to NOT call the patient. So, was I going to be left hanging??? Note to others: we must be proactive in our own health care! However, I'm not going to let that little annoyance spoil my JOY!

Thanks again to so many who prayed for me to receive calm and peace during these 23 days! God definitely answered!

"We depend on the Lord alone to save us. Only he can help us, protecting us like a shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we are trusting in his holy name." Psalm 33:20-21 NLT

I knew that the Lord was with me during this time of trial. He would heal me if he chose. I accepted that the outcome could be either health or sickness. I trusted his sovereignty in my life (even tho I'm not ready to die yet!). It is by faith that I accept his will for my life.

Thank you, friends, for sharing this journey with me! May your faith be strengthened, too.

Waiting: October 20

2009-10-20T09:10:00.000-07:00

(See below for after the exam report.)

October 20 morning: Since last report, I've continued to feel calm and reassured that everything is in God's hands. I must accept whatever He allows or puts in my life, then lean on Him to get me through the tough times.

Yesterday, I caught myself, in the afternoon, actually feeling HAPPY, even JOYFUL! How weird is that? Surely I should be stressed about the upcoming test and potential results. But, the Spirit was with me, what more could I ask for?!

On Saturday, we spent about 7 hours in the car travelling to and from Snoqualmie Falls to visit my daughter & her husband for lunch and then visit my cousin and his family for dinner. During all the driving, I could feel the "mass" in my lower pelvic region pressing against the top of my leg. No pain, just some pressure. So, I'm really hoping it can be removed, whatever it is!

Today, I woke up feeling a little stressed, not about the test, but about the drinking of the 3-4 cups of water 2 hours prior to the test and HOLDING IT! Trusting God to control those sphincter muscles!

Trusting God to give wisdom to the radiologist who will be reading the results - no errors today! Trusting God for quick reporting of the results!
Thanking God for those who have been praying for me!
Thanking you who have been praying for me!

Well, I will report after the exam . . .

October 20 evening: Hi there. I was nervous waiting for the exam - my heart beating in my throat. Just trying to get the pay parking machine to work is a trial in itself and I'm sure can easily cause some people heart attacks!
The exam was uneventful. The technician took several pics for a variety of angles. She keep apologizing for pressing on my full bladder. Well, stop doing that, I wanted to say!
The results are evaluated by the radiologist today, who dictates a report which is sent to the secretarial pool. Sometime next week, the finished letter is faxed to my doctor. This delay is unacceptable! I've made an appointment with the doc for Friday morning. Maybe he can make a phone call. Hey, there's a prayer request! May God intervene to quicken this process!

I'm feeling somewhat discouraged. Contemplating the worst case scenario. But, am telling myself just to "be" in the present. Trying to keep my mind busy with other things.

If you prayed for me, THANK YOU!

Waiting: October 13,14

2009-10-13T16:19:00.001-07:00

(See below for October 14th)

Thanks to those who are praying for me - it's working! I am calm and have been receiving encouragement from many people!

October 13: Preparing for my appointment with the substitute GP tomorrow. Checking out local private clinics that give ultrasounds and MRIs. Want to ask the doc about this possibility. (Usually the clinics need a physician's referral.) Heard this afternoon about a clinic across the line, so have added that to the list. Also making a list of questions as to what happens after the test results. Went to the Ladies Missions Group today where I always receive a warm welcome from the other ladies. Swapped prayer concerns with some of them. Great that we can pray for each other. Also, praying for others sometimes keeps our/my mind off our/my own issues. Still have not heard about ultrasound appointment at Delta hospital yet. Feeling upbeat today, despite the RAIN!

Scripture this morning: Matthew 1:23 "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel" (which means "God with us")."
Thank you Lord that you are with me, especially during times of trials. You make your presence known to me through answered prayer and the kind actions of others!

Scripture this afternoon: Psalm 62:1-2, 8 "Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken! . . . Trust in him at all times, you people, pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge."
YES! Who else can provide my rest? Only Him who has the power to control the diagnostic machine and the specialists who read the results. My trust is in Him!
Another version for verse 1 says: "I wait quietly before God . . . "
Yes, I am waiting and resting quietly - no ranting or raving, right now!

More Scripture this afternoon: Psalm 34:1,4,19 "I will extol the Lord at all times; his praise will always be on my lips . . . I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears . . . The righteous may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers them from them all."
Thank you Lord Jesus for deliverance!

October 14th: Feeling calm and prepared for appointment with GP's substitute.
Hooray! The doc was very agreeable. Answered my "what if" and "then what" questions. AND, made some calls and I now have an appointment for the ultrasound at Peace Arch Hospital this Tues, the 20th. Hooray! Thank you God for going before me to pave the way for the process to move along! Thanks for answering prayers! God is GREAT!

Waiting: October 1-11

2009-10-11T23:17:00.001-07:00

Dear Readers, as I start this story, I must tell you that, at the moment, it does not have an ending. Usually, my blog stories are complete with a beginning, middle, and end, however, only God knows where this story will end. So, please, follow along with me on this new journey.

October 1st: Routine pelvic exam finds something "that needs checking out", "that doesn't quite feel right." Words from my doctor while examining the vicinity of my right ovary. I could feel that something was different, too. He never actually said, "Oh, I feel a lump on your ovary", just, "we need to send you for an ultrasound." I said, "And, you're not going to tell me what you think it is, are you?" "When I know, you'll know," he said. In a short discussion with the nurse, who was in the room at the time, he instructed her to send a request for the procedure to Delta hospital. Apparently, right now, there is a 3 month waiting period for this procedure at my nearest hospital, and at another one nearby they are discouraging new requests due to overwhelming demand. The nurse thought I could get seen at Delta within 2-4 weeks. Although, since word was out that Delta had shorter a waiting period, maybe more doctors were referring there. Who knows. The nurse assured me that she would call me as soon as the appointment info came back to the doctor's office.

Later, in thinking about what was going on in my pelvis, I remembered that I had occasionally felt some discomfort in that area for the past few months, but thought it was just the digestive process. Now, I realized that what I was feeling was "something".

October 2nd: Phoned the nurse at the doctor's office. Yes, she had sent the request right away, but did not know when they would reply. Apparently, each request is prioritized and then given an appropriate appointment time. umm. Does that mean if they call back soon, that I should worry? What if they give my case a lower priority, and then the diagnosis indicates I should have come in sooner? What about going to a private clinic, I ask. "I already asked the doctor that, he said the resolution of the ultrasound picture is better at a hospital, so therefore the diagnosis is better. He prefers that you have it done at the hospital," the nurse replied. Ok. She thought I might hear about the appointment by the end of next week.

Ok. Now, I must focus on God. Pray, don't worry. But, I'm having trouble concentrating. Started phoning some friends to ask them to pray for peace & calmness for me as I wait for the appointment time. One friend said she just a procedure at Delta hospital and it didn't take too long to get her appointment. Thanks, God, for some encouragement!

October 2-4th: I got busy on my at-home projects to try to keep my mind off the health issue. Did not go to church because I just didn't feel well enough.

October 5th: I was scheduled to meet with a friend at 10:15 am, then have a massage at 1:00. I awoke not feeling well at all (cold/flu-ish or anxious?) and canceled both. By the afternoon, tho, I felt better. (This is not unusual, as I frequently do not feel well in the morning. The afternoon is my best time of day!)

I read the following in the Bible: "The Sovereign Lord is my strength. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he enables me to tread on the heights." Habbakuk 3:19, TNIV.
Yes, I, too, have experienced this. At times when I have felt physically weak, but needed to show up to do his ministry work, God strengthened me enough to perform the work. Many times! Here, in the scripture, the prophet compares the ability God gives him to overcome obstacles to the lightly treading hoof-steps of a deer and its surefootedness on rocky mountain terrain. God help me now!

I'm starting to feel calmer, thank you Lord. It is hard to pray for myself! I will focus on "resting in Him" until the end of the week. I'm thankful that others are praying for me! Thank YOU!

October 7th & 8th: I manage some outings including helping at the local homeless shelter sorting clothing donations. I'm still feeling relatively calm, but the issue is not far from my thoughts.

October 9th: went to the Lab to have routine blood tests done (the annual ones). Since the doctor's office is across the hallway, I went in after to find the nurse. She confirmed that they had not heard from Delta hospital yet, although, another patient had just rec'd her appointment time after waiting 2 or 3 weeks. I did not ask how long the patient would now have to wait for the appointment! (Did not want to know if it was going to be another few weeks for her!) I again asked about going to a private clinic, even to Washington state. She recommended I make an appointment to see the doctor. So I did, but, it turns out my doctor is now away for 3 weeks! So on Wednesday I will see his substitute who will hopefully answer my questions about this process and give my the OK to go to a private clinic.

My husband had taken the day off and we spent the day together investigating materials needed for one of our renovation projects. Or, did he just want to spend more time with me?! Such a nice husband!

Disappointed that no phone call came from the doctor's office. Now, with the Thanksgiving LONG weekend, three more days would be "wasted" waiting for the call. Am reconsidering going to a private clinic.

October 10th & 11th: Can "feel" the what-ever-it-is pressing against some other body part. No pain, just a gentle pressure. We continued working on our outdoor projects.

October 11th: went to church! Ah, the worship songs helped me focus on God's sovereignty. YES! We have a custom that when we go up to the front of the church to receive communion, there are prayer teams nearby if we want prayer. Today, I approached them (a husband and wife team) - quickly and very briefly gave my situation and asked for patience and calmness while I wait through this process and asked for healing, if in fact there is something wrong. Their prayers for me were thorough and sensitive. Plus, he prayed that God would sort out any glitches in our medical system to allow me to get prompt care. PLUS, he prayed that God would exercise his sovereignty over the process and the radiologist. YES - I felt God saying, It is OK to go to a private clinic because I AM in charge of the results and the doctors! I was so glad I'd gone up for prayer and so glad I'd gone to church! Thank you Jesus for your love!

ummm. It seems that God's sovereignty is the theme of this blog posting! Yes, I will focus on that! Please pray for me, and thank you in advance!

From Limbo to Lindas

2009-09-27T13:11:00.000-07:00

In a blog article posted August 21, 2009, called, “A Gentle Command,” I shared my desire to follow God’s leading with regard to my involvement with a ladies small group. My focus verse was,

“Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you” (Psalm 37:5 NLT).

The result was: discontinuing the ladies group at my previous church and getting ready to start a new one at my current church. I ended the blog with, “I am excited about the upcoming possibilities for ministry that the Lord will show me in the next few months.” Since that week, I have been in limbo, patiently, but expectantly, waiting for September to come & God to show me my new direction.

Here is what happened . . .

The plan for the new group was to use the pastor’s small group questions that coincided with his sermon series planned for October to December. The start date was set for Sept 23, giving the group members time to get acquainted with each other before we started the sermon questions. I spoke to the few women I know at the church, of which about four expressed interest in joining. Two days before the 23rd, it was down to two ladies confirmed. I was not worried, just curious as to what might happen. The new group had not been widely advertised by the church as, “we don’t generally advertise small groups.” Although disappointed at this lack of advertising support, I knew that God wanted me to go ahead because: God can only direct a person when she is moving! I needed to take the next step by faith in order for God to show me the direction. If many women showed up for the group, then, great! If few showed up, then, God would make clear a new direction.

Sep 23, 1:00 pm. I arrived at the church early feeling excited about what might happen. The two confirmed ladies, both with first name “Linda”, arrived and we waited to see if anyone else came. By 1:30, no one else appeared. The ladies were somewhat concerned, but I was not. I explained that God wanted me to take this step in faith, knowing that He would show me what to do next.

Earlier in the summer, God laid on my heart that my next involvement with a small group would include more, and frequent, community outreach activities. In sharing this with the two Lindas, they excitedly expressed similar desires! Not needing to sit in the room inside the church, we told the pastor (who was in his office) that the small group was cancelled, and that we had other ideas and would let him know later. As it was a very hot day, the ladies & I found a shady spot under a big leafy tree, outside the church building where we began our new focus group!

We pledged to meet every Wednesday to walk, encourage each other in our faith journey, AND to plan and participate in a variety of one-time community service projects. With a few ideas explored, we made plans to investigate specific possibilities, essentially, wanting to commit time for one project a month. Excited – we prayed for God’s guidance, eager to see how God would lead us to impact others in His Name!

Thank you God that I am not in limbo anymore, but am in ministry with two Lindas to do good works in our community. How excited we are to watch you direct us to meet others’ needs. Give us your strength and boldness to carry out this “Mission from God.”

In the Little Things

2009-09-04T14:41:00.000-07:00

“But I am trusting you, O Lord, saying, ‘You are my God!’” Psalm 31:14 NLT

Do not be hesitant to trust and involve God in the little things in your life. I am not, and here is why – follow this conversation as it unfolds.

This morning I received an email from my daughter regarding flight changes she wishes to make. Here is the history: last fall, winter and spring she lived in London, England, working and traveling. Upon her arrival back home for the summer, she promptly booked a new flight for London for the end of the summer, with a return date of April 2010. However, as the summer progressed, she decided to change her plans and now wants to return at Christmas and stay. She had booked her new flights through Expedia to travel on British Airways. Last week, she contacted Expedia to change the return flight only to be told that after she makes the first flight, then she must contact BA to make the changes. Now, in London, as this morning's email told me, BA says to contact Expedia. Not being able to get through on the phone numbers given, she emailed me asking if I could call for her. Here is our Skype conversation:

Me: I could phone them from here and say that you are having trouble getting through and ask if there is another way you can reach them.
Dau: Great! Thanks!
Me: I'm calling them now . . . [Dialing the 1-800 number]
Me: ok, the next customer care representative will be with me shortly!
Me: (music playing while I wait on the phone)
Dau: :)
Me: I’m talking to a rep
Dau: ok
Me: they say you need to call BA
Dau: I did - they can't change it. They don't have the "booking rules". BA told me to tell Expedia they have to change it.
Me: she's double-checking
Dau: ok
Me: ok - call BA in London: 0844 4930 787 and give your BA confirmation number; not the Expedia number
Dau: so Expedia can't change it?
Me: correct - just like you found out before you left - once you've traveled, only the airlines can make the change. If you get a rep who says no, ask to speak to their supervisor
Dau: ok, I’m calling them right now!
Me: I'll say a little prayer!!! [I bow my head and ask God to make this possible!]
Dau: talking to them . . . they still say they can't do it, but she's put me on hold
Me: Dear God, make it possible! . . . [waiting, almost holding my breath]
Dau: it’s working! . . . they have to send it to their fares dept to figure out the difference (what I have to pay) but a seat is held for me for the flight before Christmas!
Me: thank you God!

So, there you have it. A little example of trusting God in the little things in my life. He is waiting for our requests. Now, it is your turn – what little thing can God make possible for you?

Baptisms Galore!

2009-08-21T23:48:00.000-07:00

“After his baptism, Jesus came up out of the water, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and settling on him. And a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, and I am fully pleased with him” (Matthew 3:16,17 NLT).
Jesus set the example for us. His final instructions to the disciples included, “ . . . go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit” (28:19). This is what happened at my church one August Sunday. Twenty-two people, who had confessed that Jesus is their Lord and Saviour, wanted to be baptized in obedience of Christ’s command and as an public declaration of their faith. Here is a little of what happened . . .

A Gentle Command

2009-08-21T22:21:00.000-07:00

Here is the basic premise that I follow, as much as I can, when seeking God’s will for my life no matter what the issue is:

“Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust him, and he will help you” (Psalm 37:5 NLT).

That is what I have been doing this summer. When my ladies’ group stopped for the summer break last June, I, as facilitator, committed to the Lord the direction for our Fall Bible study and trusted Him to show me which material to select in time for our September start-up. At our last meeting, we agreed on the general topic of, ‘Jesus and how he related to women’. As the summer weeks went by, I visited the local Christian bookstores to thumb through the many excellent books and study guides available. I bought a couple of books in June and started reading them. But, neither seemed quite right. I kept praying:

“Show me the path where I should walk, O Lord; point out the right road for me to follow” (Psalm 25:4).

Meaning, in this case, please lead me to the right material for our group. I did not pray every day nor did I actually read from the books every day, although I was diligently making my way through them. The first two books did not seem quite right. It was the middle of the summer now, so I prayed again about the choice of study material.

A gentle command spoke into my mind: “Don’t lead this group.”
Me: “But God, I love these ladies. Through our interaction with each other and with the Holy Spirit, we have learned so much over the past three years. I said I would continue. I do not want to go back on my word.”

A gentle command: “Don’t lead it.”
Me: “Well, Lord, I am sure I can do all that you want AND keep leading this ladies’ group, too.”
The voice was silent.

I started reading another book on our topic, which was interesting, but I still did not get that reassuring feeling in my gut. Three weeks later, still contemplating what to do, I asked the Lord again to lead me to the right resources because I want to:

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5,6).

A gentle command again: “Don’t lead it.”
Me: “OK, Lord. Even though it will make me sad and I will miss these ladies, I will obey. You know my schedule. You know the unexpected. You know my limits.”

I obeyed, and then I felt free. Despite my sadness about the loss of regular contact with these ladies, by God’s grace I was ready to end my ties with the group and be open to the new ministry God had in mind for me. That was Monday. On Tuesday, I called the pastor at that church and discussed the situation with her. Afterward, I contacted each member of the ladies’ group explaining the change and that the pastor would help them get going without me. Wednesday, I met with the pastor at my new church and received confirmation to start a new ladies’ group there. I am excited about the upcoming possibilities for ministry that the Lord will show me in the next few months.

Lord, thank you for your words that remind me to commit all my activities to your guidance; to trust you at the same time; and to then walk the path you show me. Thank you for your gentle, but persistent commands, which you speak in answer to my prayers. Please bless the ladies as they continue to grow closer to you. Thank you that I had the pleasure of seeing YOU in our midst, leading us gently, drawing us closer to your heart. Amen.

A Jealous God

2009-08-02T21:56:00.000-07:00

“Then God said, “Let us make people in our image, to be like ourselves . . . So God created people in his own image; God patterned them after himself; male and female he created them.” Genesis 1:26, 27 NLT

Normally, when I read, or remember, this verse, I am encouraged and know that I am special. I am pleased that I hold (or have the potential to hold) many of God’s characteristics such as the ability to love, forgive, show mercy, and offer grace. But, God the Father as well as Jesus are also shown in the Bible with not so pretty traits: anger, hate, and jealousy. Does this mean I have these traits, too? In particular, I think of the latter trait, jealousy, and an apparent contradiction seen in the Bible. Here is a sticky question that sometimes plagues me: Given that we are created in God’s image (as the above verse tells us), why does God get to be jealous in the second commandment but we cannot covet in the tenth commandment? In order to sort this out, let us start with two word studies, then investigate the context, and, finally, find the answer.

First, the tenth commandment: “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. Do not covet your neighbor’s wife, male or female servant, ox or donkey, or anything else your neighbor owns” (Exodus 20:17).

Clarifying the meaning of covet is a good place to start. The word comes from the Hebrew, chamad, which means ‘to delight in, beauty, greatly beloved, covet, delectable thing, lust, and precious thing’. Notice, there is quite a range of “coveting” within this definition, from merely ‘delighting in’ to ‘lusting’ (which I would define as an uncontrollable desire). Further, the definition of covet from www.dictionary.reference.com is 'to desire wrongfully, inordinately, or without due regard for the rights of others, e.g. to covet another's property'. Envy is listed as a synonym. This definition leans toward a negative implication for covet. In addition, the Life Application Study Bible explains that coveting is to wish to have someone else’s belongings, not simply admiring them; that coveting includes envy, which is resenting the fact that others have what you do not. Finally, in checking other English versions of this verse, the word covet is used most frequently with envy and lusting used once each. So far, so good. Let us continue.

Next, the second commandment: “For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God” (Exodus 20:5).

Frequently, in our English language, we interchange the use of jealous, envy, and covet so perhaps the Hebrew is the same. But, no, this word jealous is from the word qanna, meaning to be jealous or envious. In fact, this is an official name of God: Kanna, or Qanna, and is found in Exodus 20:5, 34:14; Deuteronomy 5:9; Isaiah 9:7; and Zechariah 1:14, 8:2. There is no denying it; our Lord is a jealous God. So, given that these two words, jealous and covet, seem to have similar meanings, and that God is a jealous God, why cannot we covet our neighbours’ possessions?

This answer comes when we take the verses in context with the setting and other verses next to them. The second commandment tells the Hebrews not to make or worship idols (false gods) and expands on the first commandment not to worship any other gods. All because God is a jealous God. As our creator, he wants all our affections, our attention, and our worship on him, the One True God, the Lord. My conclusion then, is that if we seriously desire/covet our neighbours’ belongings and focus our attention on getting those things, then we are putting our faith in these things, not God. By following the tenth commandment, we can obey the second commandment!

With that sorted out, I return to my original dilemma: since we are made in God’s image, how is it that we can be jealous, but not covet? Thankfully, I found a good answer in the Apostle Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians. Paul says, “I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy” (2 Cor 11:2). Again, I turned to the word study. The first jealous here is Greek for 'to desire, to be jealous over, to have zeal'. Jealousy in Greek is zelos meaning 'to have zeal, heated desire either favourable or unfavourable'. Again, it was still somewhat confusing until I looked at for what Paul is jealous. His was a godly jealousy – he is thinking like God – he wants the Corinthians to worship God alone, just what God wants! Paul does not want their possessions; he wants their whole attention to focus on the Lord God.

So, Lord, help me to not be jealous of, or envious of, or covetous of my neighbours’ belongings, but rather, help me to reflect your image by being jealous for others’ worship to go to you. Help me to focus my worship on you. Help me to remember that you provide for all my earthly needs and that you shower me with the blessings most appropriate for my circumstances. May my satisfaction and worship rest in you. Amen.

The Ordinary Sparrow

2009-07-22T12:36:00.000-07:00

“Not even a sparrow, worth only half a penny, can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to him than a whole flock of sparrows.” Matthew 10:29, 31 NLT

Expect persecution from wolves; yet be as wary as snakes and as harmless as doves. So Jesus begins his instructions to the twelve disciples as he sends them out to evangelize their fellow Jews. He characterized what would happen to them and how they should react by using familiar wildlife to emphasize his points (Matt 10:16-42). But, then, a sparrow. Can you imagine that Jesus compared his closest disciples to a sparrow? Flitting around the ground and shrubs as they ate seeds and insects, these little birds seemed rather inconsequential to the daily lives of the first century Jews. Apparently, the only good purpose they served was as sacrificial offerings bought by very poor people. Yet, God knew the plight of even this ordinary sparrow.

Surely, Jesus would describe his main men as high-flying eagles, swift foxes, powerful lions, or tireless camels, but he pictured snakes, doves, and sparrows. However, just as he later chose to ride a humble donkey for his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, he chose the ordinary sparrow to illustrate his comparison of value. During the lengthy instructions he gave to the disciples for their mission trip, he repeated, “Don’t be afraid” and “Don’t worry”. Why? Because only their bodies could be destroyed, not their souls. Only God can destroy souls, and only of those who do not openly acknowledge him. As he assured them that their opposition could not bring eternal harm, he assured them of their value to him. They were more valuable than a whole flock of sparrows!

It is not that they were worth the SAME as the whole flock; they were worth MORE than the whole flock. In fact, the disciples were SO valuable to him that he even knew the number of hairs on each of their heads! He assured them that just as the Father knew when a sparrow was in trouble, so he would know of their trials and tribulations. From Psalm 139, we learn of the details that God knows about each of us. He knows our thoughts before we think them. He knows where we are no matter what the situation. He even created us from conception in our mother’s womb. He planned our days. His thoughts about each one of us number more than the grains of sand on the beach! Wow! Just as the psalmist David says in awe, “How precious to me are your thoughts, God!” (Psalm 139:17), I also am overwhelmed as I begin to fathom the depth of my value to God. It is not because I perform for him, but because he lovingly created me to be his child. Thus, when Jesus says, “Don’t be afraid” or “Don’t worry”, he means it!

Many days I think my life is just ordinary, like the little sparrow. Should not I strive to fly high like an eagle? Well, not necessarily. If God wanted all birds to fly high, he would not have created sparrows! I thank God for these verses that remind me to accept the heavenly value that God places on both my temporary earthly life and my eternal heavenly life. While I flit about in, and interact with, my local habitat, I trust God to lead me to make a difference for his Kingdom. Just as God cares for the ordinary sparrow, so he cares even more for me.

Lord, your gracious love for me, and my fellow readers, is quite overwhelming! Remind us of your daily divine interaction with our lives, with our souls, as we go about making a difference for your Kingdom. Your hand is there to catch us, to guide us, and send us on our way. Mine: an ordinary life. Yours: an extraordinary love! I praise you and thank you!

Dead to . . .

2009-07-14T21:13:00.000-07:00

“All of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death . . . For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin – because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.” Romans 6: 3, 6, 11 TNIV

“Dead to sin, alive to God!” The pastor declared repeatedly during a sermon about baptism. Many people attending the church were preparing for this next step in their faith journey and the pastor wanted to impress its importance. Following Jesus Christ’s example, this act of immersion under water is a Christian tradition that publicly declares a person’s commitment to follow Jesus. The believer is dipped under the surface of the water representing, as the Apostle Paul explains in Romans, that one’s old sinful self dies, then upon being brought back out of the water, the person is declared alive in Christ.

“Dead to sin, alive to God!” Yes, pastor, I was baptized 14 years ago. I am faithfully following Jesus and aiming to lead my life as God directs.

“Dead to sin, alive to God!” As the repetition of this phrase continued, my focus changed from thinking about those new baptism candidates to the sins now “dead” in my life since my baptism. Here is my list so far:
self-righteousness
self-confidence
self-helper
selfishness
fearfulness
self-identity
worry
insecurity
pornography
dishonesty
power-grabbing
unhealthy cravings
stubbornness

Well, I am sure there are more, but those are the ones that came to mind right away. So, while some of these issues I still deal with, the consequences of them are “dead” because Christ’s resurrection broke the power of sin and death upon humankind. Now, I am now alive to God! Galatians 2:20: “I myself no longer live, but Christ lives in me.”

Dear readers, have you committed your heart to Jesus? Do you want to let him rule your life? If yes, make sure you celebrate your new identity with baptism! If no, please consider making the decision to be "dead to sin, alive to God!" Jesus is waiting for you with open arms!

Belt of Truth

2009-07-03T08:21:00.000-07:00

“Use every piece of God’s armor to resist the enemy in the time of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the sturdy belt of truth . . .” Ephesians 6:13, 14 NLT

It was early May and I was two-thirds through a course which guides the participants through a process that reveals their unique purpose in God’s Kingdom. Each week’s exercises explores different aspects of us including core values, personality traits, spiritual gifts, key life experiences, natural abilities, learned skills, and passions. By that point, we had discovered our own personal mission statement and were ready to complete the remaining classes to learn how to take the words and put them into action. This is when my trouble started. I was under attack!

Just when I felt confident, and even joyful, in accepting my uniqueness as given by God for a purpose, and not deficient as I was used to thinking, evil forces moved in to undermine my involvement in God’s Kingdom. “Oh, you don’t really think that other Christians want your services, do you? This church already has someone else offering the service you want to offer – you’re not needed in this church. Really, with your osteoarthritis you need to take more time to take care of yourself rather than spending time encouraging others' faith. What about your other commitments? You are too busy to take on a new commitment.” And so it went. In May, I wrote a blog called, “Overwhelmed,” in which I shared the situations leading to a stress attack. But, I knew the truth!

The truth was that I was under attack from the devil. The Apostle Paul warns about the “strategies and tricks of the devil. For we are not fighting against people made of flesh and blood, but against the evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against those mighty powers of darkness who rule this world, and against wicked spirits in the heavenly realms” (vs. 11, 12). Fortunately, I knew the truth of my attack because I read the Bible on an almost daily basis. I listen carefully to sermons. I read about other Christian’s experiences in ministry. I knew that the devil only attacks believers who are actually doing something to advance the Kingdom of God. I knew about his evil attacks from previous personal experiences. However, I knew that I must “be strong with the Lord’s might power” (vs. 10). Putting on all of God’s armor would enable me to stand firm against this evil.

By strapping God’s Belt of Truth around my waist, I accessed the advantages of this first piece of armor - the advantages of having God on my side. God is the most powerful being in the universe (Genesis 1, Job 38-41). God has already dealt with the devil and has numbered his days (Revelation 20:10). God uniquely created me with purpose – I am of value to Him (Psalm 139). God paved the way, through the birth, death, and resurrection of His Son Jesus Christ, for me to spend eternity with Him in heaven, rather than in hell with the devil (John 3:16, 17). God’s Holy Spirit is living in me, guiding me to God’s Truth and reminding me of Christ’s teachings (John 14:15-26). God leads me victorious!

It is two months later, now, and I continue to stand firm in my belief that God has a unique purpose for me. Although this purpose changes from season to season, and year to year, He still has plans for me to influence others on their faith journey. The Truth is that God’s love for me deflects the feelings of defeat and uselessness thrown at me by the evil one. The Truth is that God is my refuge and my fortress, Jesus is my saviour, and the Holy Spirit reigns in me. The Truth is that with Him, I shall overcome!

Dear Readers: Are you struggling right now in your service in God’s Kingdom? Are you questioning your effectiveness? Are you weighed down by disappointment or defeat? Turn to God. Let Him deflect the fiery arrows sent by the evil one. Strap on God’s Belt of Truth and the rest of the His armor. Strap this Truth onto your consciousness: “For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need” (Philippians 4:13). Then you, too, shall overcome!

Taking a break

2009-06-10T23:57:00.000-07:00

Hello friends,

Just to let you know that I am taking a break from writing in my blog this month (June). I am completing a very big writing project - a family history project, and then taking 2 weeks holiday.

I 'm still making notes about what God is teaching, tho, so see you back in July.

God bless you,

Barbara

The Rs of God

2009-05-29T15:02:00.001-07:00

“I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart;
I will tell of all your wonderful deeds.
I will be glad and rejoice in you;
I will sing the praises of your name, O most High.”
Psalm 9:1, 2 TNIV

What an exciting introduction to this psalm! Already, David, the author, has the reader in suspense waiting to hear what those ‘wonderful deeds’ are. He does not delay, but leaps into descriptions of some of God’s amazing attributes. After which I cannot help but respond with my praise!

God repulses my enemies making them stumble and perish (v. 3).
I praise you for placing your hedge of protection around me.

God is a righteous judge voting in my favour, supporting my cause (v. 4), and ensnaring the wicked in their own works (v. 16).
I praise you for proving me innocent of my sins through the saving actions of Jesus Christ. I praise you for keeping your enemies away from me.

He rebukes nations and destroys those who oppose Him, blotting out their names forever (v. 5).
I praise you for directing the leaders of the world’s countries and removing those who go against you.

He brings ruin to my enemies, erasing any memory of them (v. 6).
I praise you that I no longer need to think about those who oppose me.

God reigns from his throne forever (v. 7).
Hallelujah! My God is King of the universe!

He rules the world in righteousness and judges fairly (v. 8).
I praise you that you rule your kingdom with fairness and compassion.

The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed and the troubled (v. 9).
I praise you for sheltering my body, my emotions and my mental state when under duress.

The Lord remembers those who trust Him to meet their needs and bring hope to their lives (vs. 10, 18).
I praise you knowing in advance you provide for all my needs and give me hope for the future.

God gets revenge on those who inflict pain and suffering on others (v. 12).
I praise you because I can step aside as you exert punishment upon my oppressors.

Lord, as I reflect on your wonderful deeds and respond with praise, I pray that my readers will also learn to look and find evidence of your handiwork in their lives. Amen.

Revealed

2009-05-23T22:28:00.000-07:00

Job speaks about God: “He reveals the deep things of darkness and brings utter darkness into the light.” Job 12:22 TNIV

Job enjoyed many blessings from God including a large family, honoured status within his community, large numbers of livestock and great holdings of land. He was known as “a man of complete integrity. He feared God and stayed away from evil” (Job 1:1). Then, for seemingly no reason, all he had was taken away – his children, livestock, servants, and health. Job retreated in pain and anguish wanting to be left for dead, asking, “God, why I am suffering?” Despite this devastating personal loss, Job remained confident in God’s power and control over the world and everyone in it.

“In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of every human being . . . To him belong strength and insight” (12:10, 16).

Job’s focus was on God’s rule in people’s lives and how God controlled the physical aspects of our planet (verses 11-21). Then in verse 22, he admits that God “reveals the deep things of darkness and brings utter darkness into the light.” Did Job have a moment when he thought God would reveal some sin inside his heart that would explain all his recent misery? Hard to say, but I stopped to consider the physical distress I was in and wondered if there was some deep dark thing God needed to shine his righteous light upon.

Me: “God, why am I suffering? Please reveal any deep things of darkness within my heart, within my soul,” I pleaded and waited.

The light shone: “Beloved, you are carrying around guilt that is not yours.”

Me: “Oh, Lord, we invested in the stock market allowing for average risk, and now our funds have lost significant value. Lord, it is not my fault that the world has gone into recession, but I still feel guilty that we lost the money you gave us. I really wanted to be a good steward. I’m sorry Lord.”

God: “Beloved, who is in control of the things of the world? Who created all the resources in the world? Who gave people brains to build factories that produce goods for your comfort? Who sets the directions for the world’s leaders to take? I do. I know about the recession. You need to trust me more.”

Me: “Yes, Lord, forgive me for taking on unnecessary guilt. How I’ve suffered under that heavy load. Lord, cleanse my mind from this underlying stressor. Bring peace to my heart.”

God: “And, Beloved, stop worrying about the loss. Focus on me – your Jehovah Jireh. I will provide all that you need.”

Me: “Thank you Lord. My heart is free now. Your light has replaced the darkness. No more guilt. You are my Provider. My life is in your hands. I admit, like Job, “I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted” (42:2). You are an awesome God! Amen.”

The Sponge Effect

2009-05-18T13:52:00.000-07:00

“Spend your time and energy in training yourself for spiritual fitness. Physical exercise has some value, but spiritual exercise is much more important, for it promises a reward in both this life and the next.” 1 Timothy 4:7, 8 NLT

“You have osteoarthritis,” the doctor concluded. After waiting six months to see this specialist of rheumatology, I now had the explanation for my “various aches and pains”. As the reality sunk in, I was both glad and sad. Glad to have my random bouts of pain validated as real, but sad to learn that there is no cure, only daily management of symptoms. With a list of recommended resources to investigate, I started up the steep learning curve of the challenge of daily pain management.

One interesting fact is the role that cartilage plays in joint movement. Cartilage is the slippery, sponge-like tissue that acts as a cushion between the bones of a joint, allowing for ease of movement. When the joint is at rest, the cartilage nourishes itself by soaking in the surrounding synovial fluid, just as a sponge soaks up water. Then, when in motion with the bones pressing against each other, the waste fluids are squeezed out of the cartilage. Wonderfully, frequent joint movement keeps cartilage healthy. By contrast, without movement, the cartilage breaks down allowing the joint’s bones to rub against each other causing inflammation and pain, which is osteoarthritis. With such an amazing yet simple explanation of joint function, I am very motivated to follow advice number one: exercise daily! I want to keep my joint “sponges” from degenerating any further.

The Apostle Paul agreed that physical fitness is important, but he also stressed to his readers that spiritual fitness is even more important. So, what exercises can we do in order to have our spiritual life in line with God’s eternal plan? Of course, this answer fills many, many books, but a simple list works well. Before we begin a routine of daily spiritual fitness, we must have the right starting point. Initially, we humble ourselves before God by acknowledging that His Son, Jesus Christ, came to earth as a man to die on a cross in payment for our sins (1 John 4:9, 10). Then, we may proceed with daily spiritual exercising which includes:
1. reading God’s book, the Bible, as it is useful to teach us what is true and make us realize what is wrong in our lives (2 Timothy 3:16). Not only read the Bible, but also meditate on its truths and take its precepts into our hearts (Psalm 119:97, 98);
2. confessing our sins and changing from our ungodly ways. Trust in the Lord with all our hearts and do not depend on our own understanding. Seek his will in all we do, and he will direct our paths (Proverbs 3:5, 6);
3. love God (Deuteronomy 6:5), love our neighbours (Luke 10:29-37), and love our enemies (Matthew 5:44).
Now, we could list many more exercises, but in keeping the list short and easy to remember, we may stay focused on keeping our spiritual fitness in the “excellent” category. Within each exercise are many details for strengthening our faith.

Just as I am motivated to exercise daily for physical health, as a follower of Christ I am even more motivated to keep up with my spiritual exercises. My spiritual self yearns for nourishment on a daily basis and is thankful for the benefits. Inner joy is received when God speaks to me through my daily Bible time. A fresh start on God’s path comes after confession, followed by a calm assurance that rests over me when I trust in Him. A sense of belonging and purpose follows when God’s love flows through me. In addition, eternal life with Jesus in heaven awaits me in the afterlife.

Lord, thank you for revealing the secret workings of our physical bodies. Continue to keep my body working like a sponge - soaking in nourishment from healthy foods and regular exercise. Even more, Lord, thank you for revealing yourself to me through the Bible. Continue to keep my heart like a sponge – soaking in spiritual nourishment from your Bible and your very presence. I pray for my readers that they, too, will seek you and keep themselves spiritually fit as each new day dawns. Amen.

Overwhelmed

2009-05-14T12:32:00.000-07:00

“. . . earthquakes come . . . mountains crumble into the sea . . .oceans roar and foam . . . waters surge” Psalm 46: 2, 3 NLT

Did you notice the gap? Did you notice that I did not post an entry to my blog for three and half weeks? From April 16 to May 11, 2009, there were no entries. Why? I wondered, too, until I realized what was happening.

Earthquakes came to shake up my schedule. More outings than usual sprung up to fill my days. All were for positive experiences of enjoyment, learning, socializing, contributing, and health. All good, but overwhelming for my calendar!

Mountains of preconceptions crumbled into the sea. At one of those outings, I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis. Not something I saw coming. Good to know, and, thankfully, not life-threatening, yet still a new aspect that needs to be incorporated into my daily life. This includes lots of material to read, new daily exercises, food and natural supplement choices to consider, and, get this, I am supposed to rest each day for an hour or so. All good, but overwhelming for my brain!

Ocean waves of introspection gathered intensity at a course I was taking. More homework, more delving into how best to serve God, more goal-setting and barrier-busting. All good, but overwhelming for my heart!

Waters surged stronger and faster as I broadened my family history research project. One discovery leads to two new mysteries! Very addictive – hard to stop! Who are these people? What was life like for them? How I admire the pioneering spirit of those who left their lives in the ‘homeland’ and traveled to North America with hopes and dreams for a better future. All good, but overwhelming for my organizational skills!

As I lived within this whirlwind of activities, I ignored the warning signs of impending collapse. Although I noticed in my conversations that I used the word “overwhelmed” frequently, I pretended that all was well, because all these involvements were ‘good’. But, where was the balance in my life? When was I turning to God as a refuge from this upheaval of the natural order in my life?

Then, two days ago, when at the library doing research, I experienced physical symptoms resembling a panic or anxiety attack. Ok, God, I got the message. I went home, rested, and cancelled most of my commitments for the next two weeks. Although, I did not sleep well that night, I felt a little better the next day. I went to the doctor who sent me for several tests. Today, I will do what is important which means spending time with God, writing, exercising, eating well and resting. I will step into the eye of the storm where in the calm is God, my refuge and strength, who is always ready to help in times of trouble. Then I will not fear the earthquakes, crumbling mountains, and surging waters that roar through my life. (Psalm 46:1-3).

Dear reader, if you, too, are stuck in the whirlwind, I pray that you will find refuge in the One True God who is at the centre of your life. Step into His fortress of calm and peace. Look up, and see His glorious works. Be still, and know that He is God who can overcome any challenges in your life. Just as I am reminding myself of my priorities, may you also consider who is most important to you and include Him in your daily life.

What Part do I Play?

2009-05-12T00:05:00.000-07:00

I always wanted to be important. That status in our society is usually given to those who speak wisely, achieve great things, or make decisions that affect many lives. Since I did none of these, I never felt important. My struggle for this status was further thwarted during my ‘stay-at-home-to-raise-the-kids’ years, as society in the 1980s did not think this was a worthy activity. I did manage, though, a few moments of importance when I took on executive volunteer positions within local community groups. Now, with my children grown and still not holding a prestigious title, where do I find importance?

At a recent community event, I felt important when I wore
a vest that identified me as a member of the local Photo Club. Our Club had agreed to take photos of the event and give them to the organizers in return for a financial donation to the club. As one of the club volunteers, I had authority to take photos – I was important! Well, for four hours anyway! What about other days?

Fortunately, in Christ’s community, the Apostle Paul explains that:

“Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ’s body. We are all parts of his one body, and each of us has different work to do . . . and each of us needs all the others.” Romans 12: 4, 5 NLT

Over the past fifteen years of wholeheartedly serving God, I struggled with the misconception of elevating some ministry roles over others. I viewed ‘support’ roles as not as ‘important’. However, I learned that this thinking comes from society’s secular point of view, not God’s. He spoke through Isaiah saying, “My thoughts are completely different from yours. My ways are far beyond anything you could imagine” (Isaiah 55:8). Then, much more recently, Paul reinforced this reality, stating that all believers have important roles within God’s family AND that we all need each other to accomplish Kingdom goals.

As I continued to seek God’s direction and watch His ways unfold, I grasped the reality of the Apostle Paul’s explanation that God has a very special role for me to play, and only me. Furthermore, I learned that it is important that I embrace this responsibility rather than embrace the desire for an important role!

While I have taken on many positions within the church family, I recognize that my particular God-given passion is to inspire others to deepen their relationship with God. By leading small group Bible studies or engaging in one-on-one conversations, I am an active agent of the Holy Spirit providing opportunities for others to consider God’s truths, realize areas of compromise, and commit to a closer walk with Him. Joyously, at the same time, God speaks to my faith and encourages me in the same ways!

Lord, now that I know I am ‘important’ in your eyes, I am content to serve others in your name and release the needs of my ego. Guide my footsteps on the special path you have chosen for me. Thank you for the honour of participating in your Kingdom. I pray that my readers will also embrace their God-given uniqueness and serve you to their fullest. Amen

Gifts that Honour

2009-05-11T21:48:00.000-07:00

“Honour your . . . mother.” Exodus 20:12

Mother’s Day 2009 is finished, but I will remember it as particularly heartwarming. Why? Because each of my grown-up children honoured me with a gift symbolizing the desires of my heart.

From Julia: two things arrived via Royal Mail from London, England, where she is living:
1. a card that describes a multi-tasking Mom as, “World’s greatest juggler; been known to wash, cook, iron, clean and help with homework all at the same time (sometimes resulting in polished chicken, basted clothes, and 2+2= “where’s the other blooming sock?”).” Then, on the inside, “Thanks for everything you do mom!”
Thank you, Julia, for recognizing my desire to meet the needs of each of my dear children!
2. a small chocolate treat.
Thank you, Julia, for feeding my desire to enjoy and savour the good things in life!

From Mariko: a parcel arrived via US mail from Portland, Oregon, where she is living:
an attractively covered book including a hand-stitched binding, a memento pouch, and acid-free sustainable forest blank pages. Inside, her inscription reads: “I hope this inspires you to keep writing!”
Thank you, Mariko, for encouraging my desire to share what is meaningful, exceptional, and challenging in my life.

From Eric:
a ticket to the theatre to see the latest Star Trek movie. (I am a huge Trekkie fan!)
Thank you, Eric, for ‘beaming up’ my desire for unparalled courage, positive role models, and victory over evil!

From Natalie:
a gift card for the ultimate hand indulgence - a revitalizing manicure at a destination day spa.
Thank you, Natalie, for buffing and polishing my desire for time to rest and relax after all that multi-tasking to meet the needs of others!

Thank you my dear children for the honour you bestow upon me and for meeting the desires of my heart. May God bless each of you with a long, full life. (Exodus 20:12)

And from my husband, Mike:
a well-organized home-cooked dinner, with flowers and with our two kids who do live nearby.
Thank you for flavouring my desire to be appreciated as a valued member of our family!

I thank God for all of you!

King Robbie and Me

2009-04-16T17:05:00.001-07:00

I sensed God’s finger pointing at me. “You hypocrite!” He said. “Did you not understand yesterday’s Bible study lesson?”

The Biblical Example:
The great King Solomon had died and his son, Rehoboam, was about to become King of all Israel. Being somewhat skeptical of the new king’s intentions, the ten northern tribes said: “Your father was a hard master. Lighten the harsh labor demands and heavy taxes that your father imposed on us. Then we will be your loyal subjects.” King Robbie (as I call him) promised to answer in three days. First, he discussed the matter with his father’s counselors who advised that kindness toward the people of the ten tribes would ensure their loyalty. However, the King rejected their advice and then consulted his long-time friends who were now his new advisors. They urged him to impose even more harsh requirements instead of reducing the workload. Upon hearing this, the ten northern tribes rejected King Robbie’s rule over them and selected one of King Solomon’s enemies as their new ruler instead. (1 Kings 12)

The Perspective:
Chuck Swindoll puts it this way: “King Rehoboam had two faces: the public image that appeared genuinely spiritual, and the behind-the-scenes reality that revealed a reckless phony. His fascinating story demonstrates that hypocrisy results in personal and public tragedy for ourselves, those closest to us, and even those at a distance.”* King Robbie pretended to look the part of the respectful, wise young ruler by asking his father’s counselors for advice when, in fact, he planned all along to agree with his own friends’ advice. Through this look at King Robbie, we gain insight into the dangers of hypocrisy and are asked to examine ourselves for such a state hiding within us.

The Trap is Set:
Like clockwork, every time I study something in the Bible, God points his finger at me and says, “This lesson is for you, too!” (Of course, sometimes it is a blessing that is for me.) The other day, a friend told me about her Easter Sunday. She and her adult children had received an invitation to join her son and his wife for Easter lunch. The catch here is that her son lives in the United States, just across the border from where my friend and her kids live in Canada. She already has her Nexus card, which enables her to cross the border without waiting in the frequently long car line-up. Naturally, this works well for those who cross the border frequently. Unfortunately, her other children had not heeded their sister-in-law’s repeated pleas to get their own Nexus cards so they ended up stuck in a 1 ½ hour line-up on their way for Easter lunch. As a result of their very late arrival, my friend’s daughter-in-law was extremely upset and disappointed. While listening to this story, I nodded my head in angry agreement, saying, “Your other kids are just showing a lack of consideration and love toward your son and his wife by not bothering to get their Nexus cards. Certainly, it isn’t too much to ask!”

Caught in the Act:
But in my head, I remembered when my husband and I recently crossed the same border to visit our married daughter and waited almost two hours in the border line-up leaving my daughter waiting for us to arrive at some unknown time. My husband and I had been talking for several months about getting our Nexus cards but just had not made the effort to apply. I sensed God’s finger pointing at me! “What are you talking about, Barb? You have shown that same lack of care by delaying your application process.” (The fact that she knew we might be delayed at the border does not excuse us from not taking advantage of ways to cross the border quickly. If she was angry at us for not getting the Nexus card, she did not show it, but she would be in her rights if she was!)

My Reaction:
I admitted my hypocrisy to God and asked His forgiveness, determined not to procrastinate any longer in applying for that Nexus card. That night, my husband and I filled out the online applications and now wait for our interview, praying that we will be approved.

My Prayer:
So, Lord, I see now that, although I am not completely like King Robbie in character, I still displayed that same two-faced attitude toward my daughter by promising to get the Nexus card but then not following through, resulting in an imposition upon her schedule. As Chuck Swindoll suggests, hypocrisy results in discord. I was also no better than my friend’s uncaring children were. Thank you for her considerate attitude that showed me the right way to go. Thank you for a daughter with an abundance of patience. Lord, stop me in the future from being hypocritical. Help me to respect the schedules of my family and friends. Amen.

*Swindoll, Charles R., Fascinating Stories of Forgotten Lives Workbook (W Publishing Group:Nashville, TN), 2006, p 133.

Excuses, Excuses!

2009-04-13T00:12:00.001-07:00

King Saul’s case: One day Samuel said to Saul, “Now listen to this message from the Lord . . . Go and completely destroy the entire Amalekite nation - men, women, children, babies, cattle, sheep, camels, and donkeys.” . . . Then Saul and his army slaughtered the Amalekites . . . he captured Agag, the Amalekite king . . . and spared the best of the sheep and cattle, the fat calves and lambs - everything that appealed to them. 1 Samuel 15:1-9

Adam and Eve’s case: The Lord said, “Don’t eat the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.” . . . They ate the fruit and when confronted by God, he said, “the woman you gave me brought the fruit and I ate it.” She stated, “The serpent made me.” Genesis 2:15-17, 3:1-13

These are just some examples of excuses for disobedience found in the Bible. They thought they could adjust God’s commands to their way of thinking. However, dire consequences followed: God stripped King Saul of his kingdom and placed curses on Adam and Eve. Am I any better?

No, for I, too, make excuses for my disobedience. In my younger days, my reasons for going against my parents’ rules included: “we only went a little bit into the forest” and “I didn’t know we would go to her house.” Consequences? Certainly! I was frequently caught, grounded and my allowance was withheld. In my younger days as a believer, I excused my sinful behaviour with, “Oh, surely, it doesn’t really matter if I do such-and-such – it’s not hurting anybody! And God will forgive me anyway.” Consequences? Yes! A barrier came between God and me as I refused to turn away from my disobedience.

Today, I am much more compliant as I aim to obey God with all my heart, soul, mind and body. Even though I shudder at the mere thought of disobeying Him, I was not surprised when my desire to obey was tested recently at a missions awareness meeting. As I knew who the speaker was and a little bit about her cause, I anticipated that I would want to contribute financially but planned to wait for God to direct me. At the onset of the presentation, I thought, “I’ll give this much to her group. Any amount will help.” By the time she was halfway through, I could sense God nudging me to donate a higher amount. “Ok, God. I’ll get out my cheque now.” Um, looked in my wallet and, no cheques. “Oh well, I’ll write one when I get home and mail it to her.”

Later, as I carried on with other things, excuses to give less kept drifting through my head. “Oh, I never actually told her how much I would give, so she won’t know if I give less than I was earlier thinking.” “Actually, I didn’t even tell her I would send a cheque, so if I don’t, I won’t be breaking any commitment.” “Hey, I was saving that money for my own purposes.” “I’m sure someone else will give to her cause.”

Well, God would have none of these excuses!
The guilt started building, my stomach started to
churn and my heart beat faster. “OK God, I’ll write the cheque now and for the higher amount
that you wanted!” Whew! I wrote the cheque and mailed it.

Forgive me, Lord, for considering disobedience even if just for two hours. Strengthen me to obey faster next time!

More Mercy Please

2009-04-02T15:37:00.000-07:00

Mercy = to show compassion or forgiveness toward someone who deserves punishment.

Jesus said, “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.” Matthew 5:7 NIV

Have I shown mercy? Yes, many times when a person’s actions or words insult or offend me, I swallow my disgust, silently count to ten and ask God to tell me how to respond. When I open my mouth, again, I am ready to show mercy by forgiving them “who know not what they do.” Certainly, I am not consistent in showing mercy, but I continually pray for His intervention when I am in these situations. So, because I show mercy . . .

do I receive mercy? Yes, God forgives me when I admit my disobedience. He washes my slate clean when I come to Him in humble repentance. Yes, a number of people have shown me mercy by kindly overlooking my rudeness, ignorance or selfishness.

Suddenly, right in the middle of this seemingly nonchalant consideration of mercy, God points His finger at me and reveals a terribly bad habit I have that requires constant mercy: back-seat driving! Sadly, I realize that my husband has suffered quietly through years, even decades, of my nagging back-seat driving. Oh, Lord, I know you will forgive me, but will he? My heart aches with the realization that, despite my unkind words toward him, he never complains back; he just ignores me and looks straight ahead. He must have developed an automatic shut-off valve when I “assist” him with his driving skills. Yet, who am I to think that I drive better or safer than he does? Compared to his driving record, mine pales.

Lord, what is the matter with me? Why must I keep trying my husband’s patience? If I am frustrating my husband, I must be frustrating you, too! God, help me!
Stop me from back-seat driving so that I may return the kindness he has shown me.
Stop me from back-seat driving so that I may show him my love through the absence of unkind words.
Release me from my need to control the driving habits of my husband.
God, help me release control. Breathe in . . . breathe out. Enjoy the scenery instead!
God, where am putting my trust? Help me trust You to keep me safe in the car!

Lord, thank you a thousand times for giving me a husband is who is an excellent driver. Forgive me for being an un-appreciating wife.

To my dear husband: please forgive me for all these years of back-seat driving. I am sorry! You do not deserve this treatment. You have shown me mercy beyond measure! Thank you for loving me so much.

Lord, empower me right now to stop this terrible habit! Replace it with a habit of trust. Amen.
__________________________
To my dear readers: I prayed this prayer one year ago. Indeed, God has enabled me to keep my mouth shut about 95% of the time. God and I are still working on the last 5%! The other day I humbly asked my husband if he had noticed that I was not back-seat driving as often, but he said he had not noticed. Is that because we tend to notice only the negative words? Nevertheless, I hope that one day he will notice that he is having an enjoyable time in the car with me.

Distractions

2009-03-27T15:06:00.000-07:00

Today’s waking thoughts: one week since my last blog entry. OK, today I will sit down and write another. Do I have to write it today? Yes, Barb, you want to. True, I do have ‘God moments’ to share and, frankly, I like writing! Well, actually, the writing part is a challenge to produce something coherent, but I like finishing well. Barb, stop your mind from wandering and think about your topic. But first, I need to eat breakfast, check my emails, and go to yoga. Afterward, for sure, I will sit down at the computer . . .

Later: yoga is done; next comes lunch. Well, I will write after lunch; cannot write on an empty stomach . . .

Even later: stomach full, but better make some phone calls first. Sit down at the computer. One last check for new emails. Open up a new Word document and type in my title . . .
Do I hear the mail dropping into my mailbox? Better have a look-there might be something important to open. With the mail recycled (it was not important) and walking back to my desk past my bedroom, the unmade bed reminds me it is sheet-washing day. Yes, they can be washing while I am writing. Multi-tasking is good! Off to the laundry room . . .

Still later: sit back down. Open my Bible. Start typing, but wait – that is another topic! Save that under different title . . .
Lord, HELP! What is keeping me from concentrating on your Word and the message you have for me? DISTRACTIONS! Lord, show me the Scripture to focus on, please!

But Jesus told him, “Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.” Luke 9:62 NLT

Walking toward Jerusalem with Jesus, some new believers accepted his offer to, “Come, follow me.” Jesus explained that following him meant traveling around Palestine and proclaiming the Gospel. The new believers were eager but expressed some conditions. One man asked to first return home to bury his father. Another wanted to say goodbye to his family. Certainly, these are simple, respectful things to do, right? No, Jesus does not want distractions to lead us away from him. He wants our complete devotion.

Looking back, like the farmer with the plow did, has serious consequences just like Lot’s wife experienced in Old Testament times. The city that Lot and his family lived in was full of people disobeying God's ways. Finally, having had enough of their blatant wickedness, God sent his angels to warn Lot to take his family out of the city because he planned to destroy it and all the inhabitants. The end of the story sees Lot and his family running out the city gates into the countryside “but Lot’s wife looked back as she was following along behind him, and she became a pillar of salt” (Genesis 19:26). She longed for just one more glimpse of her old life and paid dearly for that lack of devotion to the Lord.

How easily I change my mind’s lens from a telephoto view of God which blocks out all other sights, to a wide-angle view of many other intriguing images. When I am writing, by completely focusing on God, I enjoy an ongoing dialogue with him about the message. It is my choice, but I need his strength, his willpower to let the distractions melt into nothing. Later, I can do the laundry, check the mail, or eat lunch. When God gives me a message, I need to respond immediately, not wasting any time getting it onto paper. When he gives any of us believers a special purpose or mission, we need to act accordingly. Not doing so will bring distress and may delay or even negate the intended blessings.

Lord, thank you for the blessings of your love for me, that I should deserve the messages you give me. With your power, dissolve the distractions that lead me away from you and, instead, focus my attention solely upon you. Do the same for my dear readers, too! Amen.

At The Intersection

2009-03-20T22:29:00.000-07:00

“For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Romans 14:17 NLT

“Live in a way that pleases God.” 1 Thessalonians 4:1 NLT

As I declare myself a Christian, I ask God to lead me away from the world's standards and toward His Kingdom’s standards. I pray for wisdom to recognize the differences as well as for the conviction to live the Kingdom Way. Here are a few contrasts I wrestle with every day at the intersection of choices:

World = to know; to gain knowledge, university degrees
Kingdom = to be a follower of Christ (John 2:43)

World = focus on career, increase my status
Kingdom = focus on ministry by serving God and others (Romans 12:11, Galatians 5:13)

World = earn money for selfish ambition
Kingdom = give money to the Lord’s work (Malachi 3:10)

World = acquire possessions for personal use and pleasure
Kingdom = share possessions with the poor and needy (Acts 2:45)

World = people – take advantage of their weaknesses
Kingdom = people – encourage their spiritual growth (Ephesians 3:16-19)

World = shop ‘til I drop
Kingdom = pray ‘til my knees are bruised (1 Thess 5:17)

World = control my own life
Kingdom = submit to God’s will (Matthew 6:10)

World = knowing my net worth
Kingdom = know that God considers me worthy (John 3:16)

World = bend the rules to suit myself
Kingdom = obey God’s commands without compromise (Matthew 28:20)

World = worry about food, clothing and shelter
Kingdom = God will provide all I need (Luke 12:31)

World = my titles are “daughter,” “sister,” “wife,” “mother,” “friend”
Kingdom = my titles in Christ are “blessed,” “loved,” “chosen,” “accepted,” and “saved” (Ephesians 1:3-5, Romans 15:7, John 3:16)

World = my life is temporary
Kingdom = my life is eternal (John 3:16)

Daily, Lord, enlighten me to choose your holy ways. Daily, Lord, strengthen me to keep on your righteous paths. Daily, Lord, meet me at the intersection of choices and lead me to the road most pleasing to you. Amen.

Battle Prayer

2009-03-15T18:37:00.000-07:00

“I defy the armies of Israel! Send me a man who will fight with me!” shouted Goliath. 1 Samuel 17:10 NLT

Victory was assured for the Philistines this time, but it would cost many lives. With the Israelites equally concerned about their impending doom, both sides agreed to settle the outcome of this battle by sending one representative to the front lines for a winner-take-all round of ultimate fighting. In the Philistines’ corner strutted a giant of a man, Goliath, wearing full body armor, carrying a heavy bronze spear and hurling venomous insults at the Israelites. In the opposite corner stood a young shepherd, David, armed with his wooden staff, a sling and five stones. As a retort to Goliath’s threats, David shouted his battle cry:

“I come to you in the name of the Lord Almighty-the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. Today the Lord will conquer you . . . and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel! And everyone will know that the Lord does not need weapons to rescue his people. It is his battle, not ours.” 1 Samuel 17:45-47

I am the Philistines when I am:
Threatening someone weaker
Secure in my own strength
Taking what is not mine
Trusting in gods manufactured out of stone, metal and wood
Supported by like-minded others
Basing my courage on my invincible weapons
Sure that my strategy is flawless
Unconcerned about the injuries inflicted upon the enemy
Trusting in my fellow warriors
Motivated by greed, lust, and arrogance.

Forgive me, Lord, when I am like the Philistines.

I am Goliath when I am:
Convinced that I alone can save my family, team, and nation
Sure that size matters
Miscalculating my opponent’s desire to win
Calling people insulting names
Focused on mocking others
Using my influence for selfish ambition
Spewing vile threats
Counting on the latest armor to protect me
Strut about in my over-confidence
Bolstered by previous wins.

Forgive me, Lord, when I am like Goliath.

I am the Israelites when I am:
Afraid of an enemy who wants to crush my spirit
Afraid of losing my life and loved ones
Afraid of losing my property and possessions
Bullied by a person with a greater physical presence, a sharper tongue, and a biting wit
Dared to “give up or else”
Not confident in my own abilities
Losing my sense of security
At the mercy of evil forces and overwhelming odds against me
Placing my hope for victory in the One, True, Living God
Letting my Saviour, Jesus Christ, the Son of God, fight my battles.

Save me, Lord, when I am like the Israelites.

David is Jesus when he:
Trusts the One and Only Living God for victory
Calls upon the strength of Almighty God
Knows his protection comes from God’s heavenly armies
Marches into battle on my behalf
Uses divinely designed weapons
Accepts that the seemingly impossible is possible
Takes care of his people
Knows the weakness of my enemy
Has no fear in attacking an enemy of any size and strength
Knows that the victory is his!

My faith is in the Lord God Almighty!

I am a follower of Jesus Christ when I pray:
Lord, keep my perspective clear when approaching enemy territory. Arm me appropriately with your victorious weapons. Speak your words through my mouth to neutralize any contentious situation. Strengthen me with the assurance of your mighty power and presence. Stop me from acting like the Philistines and Goliath. Train me to humble myself like the Israelites and to turn to you in all circumstances. Thank you that my enemies are your enemies. Thank you that you fight my battles. Thank you that fear of defeat is banished when I stand in your fortress. Thank you for the victory over death and evil forces. You are my Jehovah-Nissi; I battle under your banner! Amen.

Re-Gifting

2009-03-13T21:34:00.000-07:00

“They should be rich in good works and give generously to those in need, always being ready to share with others whatever God has given them.” 1 Timothy 6:18 NLT

“And the winner is: table 12 seat 5!” “Hey, that’s me!” I just won a gift certificate for one week at kids’ summer camp! Hooray! Now my daughter can go to camp this summer, even though my husband and I had already decided against sending her. This year, at age 10, we thought she might be a bit too young to go. Now, with a free week, why not send her anyway? When I got home from the event, I excitedly told my husband and daughter about the free week at camp. They seemed happy about it, too. However, later that day, a provoking thought came into my head.

That evening, while just minding my own business thinking all was well, a message popped into my head. “Barb, you did not consult with your husband to see if you should change your mind about sending her to summer camp this year AND you did not pray to me about it.” It was a message from God. Uh, oh. I was in trouble! I spent the rest of the evening waffling between denying the message and wondering what to do. Finally, at bedtime, I confided to my husband about the message and apologized for not consulting with him first. Then, with much trepidation on my part, we prayed that God would let us know what to do with the gift certificate. In fact, we asked God to let us know the very next morning.

Upon waking, with my mind moving from the cusp of grogginess to the point of clarity, a voice spoke loudly: “Don’t! Don’t send her.” My eyes sprung open; my mind alert; my heart pounding! Was that God speaking to me? We had prayed for an answer, so it must be Him. Then I felt terrible – how was I going to tell my daughter that camp was off? Calling my husband at work, I asked if he had received a reply from God. No. So, I told him about the “Don’t”. Oh, this was very awkward for me, but by the time my girl came home from school I had mustered up the courage to explain that she was not going to camp after all. I apologized to her for the misunderstanding, explaining my lapse in judgment and subsequent prayer request and answer. Thankfully, she did not react overly adversely!

As the days of the week wore on, I prayed about what to do with the free week at summer camp. Meeting with some friends that Thursday, I explained the predicament I was in and asked for suggestions. This came from one lady:

“Well, I’m volunteering to work in the kitchen at that camp during the week that my youngest son is attending. And my friend would like to do the same thing, but can’t afford to pay for her son to go. What if you gave it to her?”

“Of course!” Thrilled, I jumped up, ran to get the certificate and placed it in her hands! I was amazed! God had a plan, far different from mine!

Lord, you taught me not to hang onto my things too tightly. You taught me not to assume that when something is in my hands, that it is actually mine. You taught me to pray about the use of my possessions, always first consulting with my husband and you. You taught me about humility and forgiveness. Lord, you blessed me with the joy of giving. You showed your love for me through this personalized lesson. Thank you!

Beyond the Pond!

2009-03-10T16:18:00.000-07:00

(This is the sequel to the blog entry entitled, “Still Waters Meditation”. See March 2009. If you have not already read it, please do so first.)

I gazed into the still waters of the pond of my life and my being. I recognized the potential energy within my soul waiting for release. I embraced the uniqueness of my personality, talents, gifts and passions. Now . . .

“Show me your ways, Lord; teach me your paths.” Psalm 25:4 NIV

Still crouching at the edge of the pond, something catches my attention out of the corner of my eye. I see the waters start to flow out of the pond into a small stream. Slowly but steadily, I am moving, too! Gasp! I hold my breath in anticipation as I flow into the unknown. Exhale. I am on my journey, with God’s hand on the tiller! Joy!

Gliding from the stream into a river, my perspective broadens. As the Spirit increases the volume of the water, I confidently proceed on my way. Sandy riverbanks encourage me as I meet others on the same voyage. But in some places, rocky outcroppings swirl me around causing me to lose my sense of direction. Always, though, the One at the tiller grips firmly, lovingly showing me how best to serve Him; releasing my energy and uniqueness in just the right portions. Joy!

Oh, Lord, where are you taking me? “This way, beloved!” Rounding the next bend – uh, oh. A shadow grows longer and darker on the river as high-reaching granite cliffs loom large ahead. The river passage narrows as it cuts a route through the canyon making the undercurrents grow stronger and faster. Suddenly – whitecaps break the surface, wildly tossing water in all directions. Whirlpools form, sucking down loose debris. Tossing and turning, I hang on tightly to my Guide, the One who throws me the life jacket. Joy!

The Lord says: “When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown!” Isaiah 43:3 NLT

Soon, the riverbanks widen, the cliffs melt into rolling slopes and the whitewater loses its confusion. Whew! With shadows of tribulation behind me and sunshine of peace upon me, I inhale, and then exhale. Calm. I am progressing along my journey. My Lord directs my path but has a warning: “Beloved, not always will the river be calm, but always, I will be with you.” For now, the river flows steady – knowing its course, proceeding with purpose. Joy!

“For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10 NIV

Lord, I am overwhelmed with your goodness! Thank you for the unique path you set before me and for traveling along with me. You strengthen me; you enable me to do your good works. Thank you for the honour of being your hands that serve and your words that encourage. I receive your joy and give my praises to you, Lord!

Still Waters Meditation

2009-03-04T17:06:00.000-08:00

“He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul.” Psalm 23:2, 3 NIV

Gazing upon the still waters of a pond, nature reflects back at me. Crouching at the edge to look closer, I see myself.

Looking deeper into the pond, I realize that still waters contain a huge amount of potential energy ready for many purposes, waiting for release. Once in motion, it can become part of a greater whole by flowing from the quiet pond to a small stream to a large river to a big ocean. Alternatively, once released from a hydroelectric dam, water can light up and warm up a city full of homes. In another situation, once flowing, water will follow the path of least resistance – where it is natural for it to go. In this potential energy, I recognize future possibilities for a ministry.

Penetrating the depths of the pond, I sense the hidden undercurrents; forces acting in the background, subtly guiding and directing. I embrace the uniqueness of these undercurrents in my personality, my natural abilities, my spiritual gifts and my God-given passions.

When I take the time to slow down and reflect, like walking beside quiet waters, I give the Lord the opportunity to restore my soul. Restore. What does that mean? To make better. To make whole. To refresh. To come alive. To give energy back. To express love. Lord, you give me hope, taking away despair. I express gladness. I become peaceful. I feel secure. I allow You to control and guide my life. I am not afraid. You build up my confidence. My soul is restored!

While contemplating the attributes of still waters and glowing in personal refreshment, a new picture came into view. A person taking time to slow down and reflect on life’s purposes. A person ready to see God’s will for her next step on this earthly journey. This woman of God peers into the reflecting glass of the quiet pond and looks deep into her own eyes. What does she see? A soul perfectly made by God: like a multi-faceted diamond. Enough inner energy for future endeavors. Undercurrents designed for serving God’s purposes. Her whole being waiting and ready to be used in God’s time, for His plans. Continuing to peer beyond the surface reflection, she explores all the facets of her life: physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual. Is she ready to move beyond the reflection in the quiet waters? To flow into her natural path toward a bigger, more fulfilling experience?

Wow, God has directed my thoughts without restriction! He has given me a picture of a ministry. Could it be my ministry? The “Still Waters Ministry.” Its mission: to encourage people at a crossroads in their life to reflect on their God-given uniqueness; to explore their future direction in God’s plan; and to fulfill their potential through Christ.

Lord, take me to the next step!

(Originally written June 2005)

Dedication

2009-03-03T21:21:00.000-08:00

In preparation for dedicating my ministry and my whole being to the Lord God Almighty, first, I acknowledge who He is:

You are the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end. (Rev 22:12)
In the beginning, you created the heavens and the earth. (Gen 1:1)
The heavens tell of your glory. The skies display your marvelous craftsmanship. (Ps 19:1)
The earth is filled with your glory. Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty! (Isaiah 6:3)
In the end, you will create a new, everlasting home for your people where you will dwell with them for eternity. (Rev 21:3)
Your throne endures forever! (Ps 45:6)

Second, I acknowledge who He is to me:

You are my heavenly father. I will praise you at all times! (Ps 34:1)
I lift up my soul to you. (Ps 25:1)
You adopted me into your family even before you made the world. (Eph 1:4)
You chart the path ahead of me, both preceding me and following me. You place your hand of blessing on my head. (Ps 139:3, 5)
You are my strength, my rock, my fortress, and my saviour. (Ps 18:12)
You brought light into my life. (Ps 18:28)
Your Spirit is my counselor, the one who shows me right from wrong. (John 16:7-10)
What miracles you do; how deep are your thoughts! (Ps 92:5)

Third, I acknowledge my unworthiness and praise His remedy:

But, Lord, have mercy on me because of your unfailing love. (Ps 51:1)
For I recognize my shameful deeds. Against you alone, I have done evil in your sight. (Ps 51:3, 4)
Purify me from my sins. Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a right spirit within me. (Ps 51:7, 10)
Your judgment against me is just. (Ps 51:3, 4)
Yet, you suffered and died on the cross as punishment for my sins. (Rom 3:25)
I praise you for your mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him at your right hand. (Eph 1:19, 20)
I praise you for this victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ, my Lord. (1Cor 15:57)
I praise you for your grace that allows me to stand before you holy and blameless. (Col 2:22)

Finally, I dedicate my life and my ministry to God:

Now, Lord, I praise you for declaring me worthy of serving you.
I dedicate my time, treasures and talents to you so that I may do the good things you planned so long ago. (Eph 2:10)
I offer the sacrifice of praise to you by proclaiming the glory of your name. (Hebrews 13:15)
Grant me the spiritual wisdom to do your will and obey your commands.
Grant me the strength to be patient and endure; to show kindness and mercy.
I love you with all my heart, all my soul, and all my strength. (Deut 6:5)
Lord, I give you my life; shape me for your purposes. I wait on bended knee.
Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty!

Confession

2009-03-03T19:58:00.000-08:00

Lord, have mercy on me because of your unfailing love. (Ps 51:1)

For I recognize my shameful deeds. Against you alone, I have done evil in your sight. (Ps 51:3).

Like Achan (Joshua 7) and David (2 Samuel 11), I have concealed wrongdoing.

I thought if no one knew, the ugliness would go away.

However, Lord, you see all; you know all, you hear all.

You see my selfish dreams and my self-important thoughts.

You know my acts of unkindness and arrogance.

You hear my words of conceit and my desires for self-promotion.

Cut these out from my heart, my mind, my body and my soul.

Show me the errors of my ways.

Lead me into your paths of righteousness. (Ps 23:3)

Purify me from my sins. Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a right spirit within me. (Ps 51:7, 10)

Your judgment against me is just. (Ps 51:3, 4)

Yet, you suffered and died on the cross as punishment for my sins. (Rom 3:25)

Your life-giving Spirit has freed me from the penalty of death. (Rom 8:2)

O, what joy for me, a rebel, whose sin is forgiven! (Ps 32:1)

Are We Like Sheep?

2009-02-24T17:14:00.000-08:00

“All of us have strayed away like sheep. We have left God’s paths to follow our own.” Isaiah 53:6 NLT

Dumb and defenseless, that is how a shepherd describes sheep!1 While they may look cute and
cuddly, they lack certain built-in life-saving mechanisms. First, with no sense of direction, they frequently wander off unable to find their way home. Second, lacking the “full” signal in their brain, overeating is a life-threatening concern. Third, they like to walk and graze repeatedly on the same path not realizing that they are depleting their food source. Fourth, without the ability to stand up after falling on their backs, sheep helplessly flail their legs causing gas to build up in their abdomen resulting in paralysis. Unless rescued, death is certain.

Defenseless, with no protective body armor, sheep are easy prey for foxes, wolves, and other predators. Further, if they walk into a river or pond, their woolly coats will soak up with water pulling them under. In addition, without the ability to perceive danger, they will wander into a thorn bush or nibble the grass to a cliff edge and right over! The need for a shepherd is vital to their very existence.

Throughout the Bible, its writers, using terms to which the ancient people could relate, included many shepherd and sheep illustrations to compare God’s situation with His people. For instance, King David used this metaphor in many of his Psalms while Isaiah and Ezekiel emphasized their points of instruction using sheep and shepherds as examples (Isaiah 53:6, Ezekiel 34:1-23). Later, Jesus called himself the ‘Good Shepherd’ (John 10:11-16) and told a parable using a shepherd and his sheep to make a point (Matthew 18:12-14). However, after learning about the every day lives of sheep and then reading the metaphors in the Bible, I said, rather indignantly, “Surely, people cannot be compared to sheep!”

My defense starts:
• I am teachable and retain most of what I am taught
• I usually wander with either a map or some idea of my destination
• My brain has the “full” signal, so I know when to stop eating
• While I do not have much in the way of body armor, perhaps fingernails, teeth, and fists might be useful, my brain is programmed to avoid impending trouble using my legs to run away
• I can swim, and my skin and hair do not soak up water and pull me under

Pondering further . . . now willing to be enlightened, I ask, “Are we really like sheep?”

My admission starts:
• I do not always stop eating when my brain says, “enough,” causing discomfort to my stomach and digestive tract
• I do ‘walk in a rut’ frequently in the way I interact ineffectively with others and repeat detrimental lifestyle habits
• I did actually get lost in Amsterdam, taking four hours to find my way back to the hotel
• I have some addictive habits, especially around chocolate and cookies, when self-control has ‘left the room’
• Although I am always on the lookout for danger when out and about, especially when out with my camera, I frequently ignore the danger signs in favour of making a great photograph
• Emotionally, I let concerns loom large in my life leading to bouts of depression
• Spiritually, in the past, I let the “I am god” philosophies of New Age lure me away from Jesus Christ
• (I could go on, but you get the idea . . .)

Verdict: “OK, I admit - I am like a sheep!”

King David knew what he was comparing, as he had been a shepherd in his youth and knew all the habits of sheep. He had been their protector and provider. Later in life, David examined his own heart and life situation from the Lord’s point of view and realizing his need for a spiritual shepherd he declared in Psalm 23, “The Lord is my shepherd.” The Lord is revealed in the New Testament as Jesus Christ, who has the same care and concern for His people that a shepherd has for his sheep.

Lord, as one of your people, I admit my inability to avoid danger, my lapses in self-control, and my straying away from your paths. Lord, thank you that as my shepherd you supply all of my needs, you give me rest from daily pressures, you comfort me during times of trouble, and bless me with your goodness and mercy. You, Lord, are my shepherd, and I am your sheep. Amen.

1. Keller, W. Phillip, A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23 (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan), 1970, 2007.

Righteousness Explored

2009-02-18T13:16:00.000-08:00

“For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ” 2 Corinthians 5:21 NLT

Righteousness – an uncommon word in today’s irreverent world;

Righteousness – a common theme woven throughout the history of God’s people;

Righteousness – a standing of holiness in God’s eyes; of living according to God’s standards;

Righteousness – in the Old Testament was granted through a temporary forgiveness of sins through animal sacrifices (Hebrews 10:4);

Righteousness – in the Old Testament: God promised a permanent solution (Jeremiah 31:31-34) in the Jehovah Tsidkenu, “the Lord is our Righteousness” (23:6);

Righteousness – the benefits of this promise include: a new heart and a new spirit within believers that will cause them to walk in God’s ways obediently (Ezekiel 36:26-27);

Righteousness – in the New Testament: Jesus Christ, the Son of God was born to save his people from their sins (Matthew 1:21);

Righteousness – in the New Testament: as God in the flesh, Jesus was incapable of sin yet suffered the penalty of death for all our sins (2 Corinthians 5:21);

Righteousness – in God’s eyes, is available to all who accept Jesus as their Lord and Saviour;

Righteousness – What difference does it make in my life, as a child of God and a believer in Jesus Christ?

1) I rest knowing that it is not by my actions that I am forgiven and made righteous, but through Christ’s death;
2) I rejoice because on judgement day I will be accepted into heaven;
3) I relish the love and compassion God showers upon me;
4) I receive the Holy Spirit with joy;
5) I rely on the Spirit to lead me on the God’s paths of righteousness;
6) I run to the Lord in times of trouble;
7) I renew my heart and mind when immersed in the Word of God, the Bible;
8) I release the need to set my own direction.

Hallelujah! “Jehovah-Tsidkenu, the Lord is our Righteousness!” (Jeremiah 23:6)

Agents of Change

2009-01-27T16:25:00.000-08:00

“Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness, instead, rebuke and expose them. It is shameful even to talk about the things that ungodly people do in secret. But when the light shines on them, it becomes clear how evil these things are.” Ephesians 5:11-13 NLT

Standing in the park amidst the lush green rain forest, one would never suspect that an ugly sore festered nearby just under the radar of everyday life. Surrounding this beautiful urban forest, the community embraced a peaceful, friendly lifestyle but ignored the source of the neighborhood’s infection, which quietly seeped the pollution of its wickedness. As the residents followed the rhythm of their daily lives, God looked down upon this area only to sense the anger building within His gut. With a determined clap of His hands, He declared, “It’s time to end this evil. I know just the right family to be my agents of change. Today, I am moving them into this neighborhood.”

That was back in 1991 and the unsuspecting family was mine! Over the next four years, God orchestrated both financial and spiritual changes in our lives. First, economic struggles through a recession and job loss culminated with the purchase of a local video rental store. Then, He led us from a spiritual wasteland to Christian commitment. Yes, we became believers in Jesus Christ! Eager to learn how to walk a God-honouring life, we attended church just minutes from our home. Within months, wanting to take on full membership in this local church, we signed up for the required baptism. But first: the interview. The church leaders met with us, needing to confirm our conversions and our desire to lead a life pleasing to God. Then they asked the question: “What about the adult XXX-rated videos at your store that you rent and sell?” Whoa! That festering sore in our neighborhood was IN OUR STORE! “Oh, that section was there when we bought the store. It’s just part of the business,” we explained matter-of-factly. Gently, they explained the perils and sinfulness of pornography. “Oh, I see,” we said, “we’ll think about that.” God’s light shone upon us revealing the changes we needed to make. Learning that every facet of a Christian’s life must reflect His values, we quickly closed that section of our store in time for our baptisms.

Later, we learned that church members had been praying for the removal of the pornography since the store opened in 1981, just steps from the church. Now, along with the smiles on their faces, God’s smile was broad as He celebrated His victory over this evil in our neighbourhood. As God’s light shone brighter upon us, we yielded to His way becoming His agents of change fulfilling His purposes for His Kingdom!

Lord, thank you for your Spirit in us who reveals our sinful ways. Thank you for your forgiveness that cleanses us from guilt and penalty. Lord, continue to guide us along your straight and narrow path. Amen.

Painted Targets

2009-01-18T22:35:00.001-08:00

“Long ago, even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. His unchanging plan has always been to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 1:4, 5 NLT

Painted targets – that is what we were! God had marked my family for ambush: a loving one, that is. Bit by bit He maneuvered our circumstances to bring us closer to His Way. Although initially unseen by us when we moved to Ocean Park in 1991, God was present in our daily lives preparing to orchestrate major changes. What began as a move to a bigger home and a quieter neighbourhood turned out to be more than we anticipated!

The realtor who sold us the house actually lived a few houses away, so she was very interested in the family who would be moving in, especially to know if they had children who would become playmates for her daughter. Naturally, she was thrilled to learn that we had children of similar age. From the time we moved in, she told me later, she and her family began praying that we would go to their church and come to know Jesus. As our older girls met new friends at the elementary school, my husband and I also met their parents. We got to know one such family who lived at the other end of our block and, as it happened, knew the realtor and went to the same church. Unbeknownst to us until later, they started praying for us, too. I am sure this was part of God’s ambush plan – He had us surrounded by praying Christians! Between the two families, our kids received offers of rides to Sunday school and other kids’ events and programs at the church. We let them go, knowing there would be no harm in that. Remembering the faith of my youth, I thought it would be a good thing for them to learn about God. In addition, the older girls went to Christian summer camps where they learned more about God and each one actually committed her life to Jesus. I can just hear the angels saying, “Two down, and four to go!”

During 1994 and 1995, my husband and I became involved in a multi-level marketing business, in addition to our day jobs. After some time, we found out that our sponsors were Christians, but of course, one’s religion had no bearing on the business so we did not think much of it. Little did we know that they also began praying for us! God definitely had us clear in His sights.

In the meantime, our financial situation dipped to some desperate lows, out of which we could not see a clear way. Finally, we attended a gathering at which we heard some very convincing Christian testimonies. By the time of the altar call was made, our hearts were ready to accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour and so we did! Now with four of the painted targets secured, only two remained.

Over the next several months, we joined our neighbours’ church which embraced us with open arms while continuing to pray for our family. Our son accepted Jesus in time to join the other four of us in baptism on Palm Sunday, 1996. Two years later, seven years after moving to Ocean Park, the prayers of our neighbours, our business associates, and church family culminated in our youngest daughter committing to Jesus and going through the waters of baptism, too! Mission accomplished!

Lord, thank you that you chose us to become part of your spiritual family. Thank you that you take us as we are, forgive us, and love us. Lord, thank you for your people who pray for the salvation of others; who pray unceasingly; and who pray with eternal hope. Lord, grant them abundant blessings, for we are eternally thankful for their persistence. Amen.

Stony Reminders

2009-01-18T13:33:00.001-08:00

“So Joshua called together the twelve men and told them, “Go into the middle of the Jordan River, in front of the Ark of the Lord your God. Each of you must pick up one stone and carry it out on your shoulder . . . We will use these stones to build a memorial. In the future, your children will ask, ‘What do these stones mean to you?’” Joshua 4:4-8 NLT

I guess I am not the only one who needs reminders! Throughout time, people created ways to pass down important information to their descendants. In Old Testament times, stone altars served the excellent purpose of commemorating God’s intervention in the lives of the Israelites. “Then the Lord appeared to Abram and said, ‘I am going to give this land to your offspring.’ And Abram built an altar there to commemorate the Lord’s visit” (Genesis 12:7). Later, his son, Isaac, built one after the Lord appeared to him announcing: “I am the God of your father, Abraham, do not be afraid, for I am with you and will bless you. I will give you many descendants, and they will become a great nation” (Genesis 26:24, 25). Still later, the Lord visited Isaac’s son, Jacob, in a dream, promising many blessings for him and his descendants. Upon waking, Jacob “took the stone he had used as a pillow and set it upright as a memorial pillar. Then he poured olive oil over it. He named the place Bethel – ‘House of God’” (Genesis 28:18, 19). A few generations on, Moses built an altar after God promised to “blot out every trace of Amalek from under heaven.” He called it, “The Lord is My Banner” (Exodus 17:14, 15). These piles of stones focused on divine intervention - every time you stumbled into one, you were reminded of something, or Someone, significant!

What if, today, we used stone pillars as reminders? I can just picture it . . . Stores would entice us with special deals. Pillars would come in every kind of style, colour and shape imaginable tying in with the latest décor trends. There would be luxury models made of marble or granite and plastic versions for the not-so-rich. We would compete with our neighbours to see who would have the most reminders in their backyard. Thankfully, today we use other things such as books, art, movies, and photos as memory triggers and do not need to litter our gardens.

Importantly, it is only through words that we can explain and hear or read about the details of an event. Although I love to memorialize special events through photography, it is hard to use that medium, like stones, to explain a moment when God intervened in my life. Photos and stones serve merely as the reminder. That is why, recently, my desire to share significant ‘God Moments’ in my life has lead me to start writing down these events in the hopes that they may be encouraging to others on their journey with God. Writing allows me to include the details that make the story complete and easy to accurately repeat in the future. When my children ask me about my encounters with God, if (and when!) my memory fails, I can open the binder that keeps my stories safe and share the details of my wonderful relationship with Him who loves me.

So, dear reader, may you be encouraged by my words, by the words in the Bible, and by the words of other believers. Why not start your own spiritual journal? Write it in your own style. Share it if you want. Create some reminders that will cause you and others to stop and ask, “What went on here?” Then, reading from your journal, you can say, “It all started . . .”

Escape the Decadence!

2009-01-05T19:49:00.000-08:00

“He has promised that you will escape the decadence all around you caused by evil desires and that you will share in his divine nature.” 2 Peter 1:4 NLT

Pacing back and forth, with hand on chin, the preacher formulated his thoughts. The pained expression on his face revealed his inner turmoil. We waited, expectantly. Then, “Why does God set us in a group of believers for fellowship only to be disappointed by some of their actions?” Good question! With the Holy Spirit’s presence in the hearts of believers, surely one’s evil desires are overcome and quashed by God’s divine nature.

Amazingly, throughout time, God chooses to be in our presence. In the Old Testament era God walked and talked with Adam in the Garden of Eden, led the Hebrews out of Egypt in order to communicate more closely with them, met Moses in a thundercloud on Mount Sinai, helped young David kill the giant Goliath, and spoke through the many prophets. In New Testament times, God walked as a man among all segments of society offering salvation to all who listened. After His resurrection, He continued to reveal Himself to the people of Israel, and then sent His Spirit at Pentecost to reside in believers’ hearts. Today, despite knowing our frailties, He truly loves us and still wants us to share in His divine nature, which is the community of the Father, the Son, and the Spirit.

Believers, through the Spirit’s presence in them, create community with other believers resulting in fellowship full of blessings and challenges. Some of my personal blessings received include prayer support during difficult personal and family times, shared joy upon significant family milestones, and spiritual growth due to the influence of others. In turn, I have had the opportunity to be a blessing to others through similar situations. In contrast to these encouraging times with other believers, some personal challenges experienced include disagreement with committee members, disappointing results in leadership positions, and disregard for some of my ideas. A further challenge was to understand and properly respond to a pastor’s lack of integrity as well as another believer’s slanderous comments about MY integrity! While the blessings of Christian fellowship are fresh breezes through our souls, the challenges are frightening whirlwinds for all involved, just as the preacher’s face revealed.

One of the true reflections of God’s divine nature in a group of believers is the forgiveness they offer to a fallen one, through the Spirit, in order to restore him or her to the envelope of God’s presence. The attack upon my integrity was the hardest, most shocking situation in which for me to grant forgiveness. The next day the attacker acknowledged the error of her words and asked for forgiveness. Although I struggled to do that, I knew that God would forgive her first and asked Him to enable me to forgive as well. With the Spirit’s help I did, choosing to look upon her as a forgiven child of God, one with many imperfections, JUST LIKE ME!

Lord, how gracious you are to forgive my sins, my lapses in good judgement, my quick tongue, and my thoughts of self-importance! How wonderful that I may enter into your presence to experience your divine nature, despite my failures! Thank you that you strengthen me to quash the evil desires that still lurk in my heart. I look forward to my time in eternity with you when I may encounter the wholeness of your perfection! Amen.

Sabbaths and Sundays

2009-01-01T16:58:00.000-08:00

“The Sabbath was made to benefit people, and not people to benefit the Sabbath. I, the Son of Man, am master of the Sabbath!” Mark 2:27, 28 NLT

My nagging question is, “Just what am I supposed to be doing on Sundays?”
First, let us define Sabbath. It is Hebrew for rest, or intermission.
Next, let us search the Bible for information.

How did the Sabbath get started?
“So the creation of the heavens and the earth and everything in them was completed. On the seventh day, having finished his task, God rested from all his work. And God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy, because it was the day when he rested from his work of creation” (Genesis 2:1-3).

What were the reasons for the Sabbath?
-To help you “remember that I am the Lord, who makes you holy.”
-As a sign of God’s covenant (promise) with the Israelites, to be his chosen people, who would receive his blessings.
(Exodus 31:13, 16)

How were the Israelites to observe this day?
-On the seventh day of the week
-As a day of rest from the regular work and activities of the other six days
-As a holy day when they would try to avoid sinning
-By dedicating the day’s activities to the Lord
-Under threat of death if they did not obey God’s rules for this day
(Exodus 16:23-24, 20:8-11, 31:12-18, 31:13, 35:2, Lev 23:2, Deut 5:12-15)

What were the benefits for the Israelites?
-A day of rest from usual daily activities
-Experience holiness
-Receive blessing(s) from God
-Time to focus on the Lord

What does Christ have to do with the Sabbath?
-He is the Lord of the Sabbath. (Mark 2:28)
-Today, our holiness is secured “through the death of Jesus Christ for all time. His sacrifice paid for the sins of all humankind, thereby making those who believe holy in God’s eyes” (Hebrews 10:10-14). In other words, Christians are holy every moment of the week, not just on the Sabbath.
-His Spirit enables believers to live holy lives every day. (Romans 8:2, 1 Thes 4:3, 7, 5:23)

If Christians, through Christ and by his Spirit, can live holy lives every day, then why bother with a day of rest?
-To dedicate regular time to focus on God, just as we schedule other important things during our week (Exod 20:10)
-To change our pace of living – our physical bodies need regular rest to maintain good health (Mark 6:31)
-To walk closer with God through prayer, reading the Bible, worship, and friendship with other believers (Acts 2:41-47)
-To remember that His power can overcome all our challenges - this gives us peace of mind (Matt 11:28-30)
-To reflect upon our future eternal rest with God in heaven (Heb 4:1-11)

Finally:
As I meditated upon God’s many words about the Sabbath, being holy, and resting, God revealed that, on our ‘day of rest’, it is more about our focus than our activities. No matter whether a Christian’s ‘day of rest’ is on the seventh day of the week, or the first, God still wants us to enjoy this time to ‘rest in him’. Taking this weekly ‘day of rest’ allows God to pour out upon us many blessings such as the regeneration of our frail bodies, the calming of our busy minds, and the soaring of our tender spirits.

Therefore, Lord, in my quest to honour you on my Sundays, which is the traditional Christian Sabbath, I pray that my actions will reflect your desires and that my heart will rest in your greatness. Thank you for your sacrifice that makes me holy every day of the week. And, thank you for my ‘day of rest’!

Gazing upon the Lord

2008-12-24T10:51:00.000-08:00

“ . . . we can be mirrors that brightly reflect the glory of the Lord. And as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him and reflect his glory even more.” 2 Corinthians 3:18 NLT

The day dawned warm, winds breezy, and skies clear. A perfect day for my daughter’s wedding. After quickly eating breakfast, I headed off to meet the bride and four other young ladies at the beauty salon. Two were there for support and fun, the others of us for hair and make-up. While three salon staff members attended to our needs, we shared jokes, gave advice and admired the bride’s ever-increasing beauty. As the time passed for my turn in the stylist’s chair, and knowing that my daughter wanted to keep to her schedule, I wondered if the staff had forgotten about me. After quietly discussing this with my daughter, we politely quizzed the staff as to when one would be ready to do my hair. As there were just 15 minutes left for our allotted salon time, they quickly got me started. Following a few minutes of small talk with my stylist, she commented, “I’m amazed! Your bridal party is so calm and happy. Usually, the bride and her entourage are anxious, fighting, and stressed out. Your group is such a pleasant change!” Surprised, I replied, “Oh, we’re just enjoying this wonderful day!”

My daughter has such lovely friends that I could only imagine a pleasant time together. Later, I mentioned the stylist’s comments to one the gals. She immediately knew why. “That’s because we’re Christians and have the love of Jesus in our hearts!” She was right, of course. I should have thought of that back at the salon. What a lovely witness we were; if only we had revealed the Good News that lies within our hearts!

How did we get this way? Speaking only for myself, moving toward my goal to become more like Christ, I wish to:
“love one another” (1 John 4:7);
“remain in Jesus and He will remain in me” (John 15:4);
“be humble, thinking of others as better than myself. To not only think about my own affairs, but to be interested in others and what they are doing” (Philippians 2:3,4);
“stay away from complaining and arguing” (Philippians 2:14);
“praise God and King, and bless His name forever” (Psalm 145:1);
“be blessed as I help the poor” (Proverbs 14:21);
“let God transform me into a new person by changing the way I think” (Romans 12:2);
“be strong and courageous and obey God laws. . . and study His Word continually” (Joshua 1:6-8).

For, “it is by our actions that we know we living in the truth” (1 John 3:19). Therefore, just as we allow the stylist to enhance the look of our hair, let us allow the Spirit to work within us so that we may more brightly reflect the Lord’s glorious qualities.

Despite my inadequacies, Lord, thank you that your Spirit is slowly transforming me into one who reflects, even in a small way, your love, peace, mercy and grace. Humbled by the attention you give me, may I, in turn, share that blessing with others. Amen.

Details, Details!

2008-12-22T19:50:00.000-08:00

The Lord said to Moses, “I want the people of Israel to build me a sacred residence where I can live among them. You must make this Tabernacle and its furnishings exactly according to the plans I will show you.” Exodus 25:8, 9 NLT

Have you ever heard a Christian say, “I prayed for the parking spot nearest the door; and just as I arrived, a car pulled away from that very spot”? Some people think this
sounds silly. They ask, “Why bother God with such little details?” To them I say, “Have you read the Old Testament? It’s full of lengthy passages with God detailing His plans for His people.” For instance, while laying out His architectural blueprints, God describes the construction of the Tabernacle (worship centre) and all its equipment: “Make an Ark of acacia wood-a sacred chest 3¼ feet long, 2¼ feet wide, and 2¼ feet high. Overlay it inside and outside with pure gold and put a molding of gold all around it” (Exodus 25:10, 11). Next, carrying a tape measure, needle, and thread, He explains the design of the special uniform the priests are to wear when ministering in the Tabernacle: “The chestpiece will be made of two folds of cloth, forming a pouch nine inches square. Four rows of gemstones will be attached to it. The first row will contain a red carnelian, a chrysolite, and an emerald. The second row . . .” (28:16, 17). Following this chapter, with His clipboard and checklist in hand, He announces the exact procedure for the dedication ceremony of the priests. In addition to building projects and priestly procedures, God, wearing a khaki-coloured helmet, frequently reveals detailed military strategies to Israel’s army commanders (see Joshua 6 about the taking of Jericho). And finally, if we were not yet persuaded that God is “Lord of all details”, then we can read the Book of Leviticus which contains chapters describing the worship and offerings required by the Israelites – all to show them how to lead holy lives before the Lord their God. Now, convinced of God’s interest in life’s little things, I consider in which areas of my life I involve Him.

On a conscious level, I try to include God in everything I do. As big plans usually involve others, such as family events, ministry work, traveling, or community involvement, I pray about each situation and ask God to show me His way. Further, for matters of less significance I usually seek God’s intervention at the moment of need. For instance, while shopping with my husband for a ‘father-of-the-bride’ suit, we could not find a tie with the right ‘wedding’ colours in it. After the second store yielded nothing, and upon entering the third store, I said a quick prayer asking God to find us the tie. I rounded the next display shelf and there it was, the perfect tie; and on sale, too! In addition, for creative endeavors I like to have an on-going conversation with God who leads me to pleasing results. Finally, for troubles involving tools or technology, I always ask God to make them work! Although, most of time I want God involved in my details, there are other times when I just proceed on my own.

It is on the sub-conscious level where I sometimes forget about God. Occasionally, when I get a great idea, I just excitedly proceed without prayerfully considering the effects of my project on others. Usually, it is almost too late when I remember that, “I should have prayed about this!” Then, in my embarrassment, I need to backtrack and sometimes apologize for my haste. It is these times when I definitely need God in my details!

After studying the many passages in the Bible that reveal God’s love of details, I realize that God not only cares for the grand scheme of things but also for the little things in my life, and yours. So, although a parking spot is a small thing, asking God to be involved in our daily walk keeps us tuned into His desires and strengthens our relationship with Him.

Lord, thank you that you are interested in the details of everyday life. Thank you that, upon creating us, you did not leave us alone to make our own way, but that you are available with your infinite resources to bless us along our life’s journey. For every situation I encounter, help me to remember to turn to you, the One who created the details in the first place! Amen.

Elizabeth

2008-12-15T16:03:00.000-08:00

“O LORD, God of Israel, there is no God like you in all of heaven or earth. You keep your promises.” 1 Kings 8:23

Partway through a Bible study of God’s names, a related question came to my mind. However, before I reveal the question, please let me tell you about the study. It explores some of the Hebrew words for God, discusses the applicable Bible references, and makes suggestions on how we can call upon a certain name of God to match certain situations. Some of God’s names start with 'El', the Hebrew word meaning mighty or strong, used in particular when referring to God.* For example: Elohim (God the Creator), El Elyon (God Most High), El Roi (God Who Sees), and El Shaddai (God Almighty). Now, here is my question: is the meaning of my middle name, Elizabeth, in any way related to this study of God’s names in Hebrew?

First, I searched through some dictionaries (including a Hebrew one) and baby name resources to discover that Elizabeth comes from the Hebrew words ‘el’ (meaning as described above) and ‘sheba’ meaning oath. In an expanded definition, an oath implies committing to something by invoking divine perfection. The Apostle Paul defines an oath as a “call upon someone greater than themselves to hold them to it. And without any question that oath is binding” (Hebrews 6:16). Together, 'el' and 'sheba' mean ‘God is my oath.’ Not an easy phrase of which to make sense. An oath is a solemn promise. ‘God is my promise.’ ‘My promise is God.’ Interestingly, God promised many things to the Israelites in Old Testament times and to believers in Christ, God’s Son, in New Testament times. Jesus speaks one of these promises in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” Other promises are scattered generously throughout the Bible. Paul assures us that “it is impossible for God to lie” thereby giving believers confidence “like a strong and trustworthy anchor for our souls” (Heb 6:18, 19). If ‘God is my oath,’ if I can confidently rely on God to fulfill His promises, then what does that mean for me whose middle name is Elizabeth?

Second, with the meaning of Elizabeth discovered, I then prayed and listened to God for further understanding about its relevance in my life. God revealed that my middle name is both a reminder and a recognition. Elizabeth reminds me that His presence is true in my life (whether I am aware of it or not) and that His promises, such as forgiveness, comfort, protection, wisdom, and eternal life in heaven, are trustworthy. Further, as it is usually hidden from the public unlike my first and last names, Elizabeth recognizes my faith as an inner strength as well as a quiet expression.

Finally, thanks to the study of God’s Hebrew names and further explorations, I have gained a greater understanding of the meaning of my middle name, Elizabeth. Through that research, I learned that Elizabeth reveals not only God’s trustworthiness in His grand scheme for this world but also God’s presence in the intimate workings of my life. Now I accept that Elizabeth has purpose in my life and melds with Barbara, the “stranger,” to reveal the uniqueness of my character.

Lord, help me to express more completely the Barbara Elizabeth that you planned on from the beginning. Thank you for the blessings of your kept promises. Thank you for the treasure of my middle name, Elizabeth! Amen.

*Kay Arthur, LORD, I Want to Know You, (Colorado Springs, CO:Waterbrook Press), 1992, 10.

A Parent's Graduation

2008-11-30T13:35:00.001-08:00

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you . . . For my yoke fits perfectly, and the burden I give you is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 NLT

It was a warm, rainy June evening. My husband and I, along with our youngest daughter, had just stepped outside of the auditorium where she had walked across the stage and received her High School diploma. On the surface, it was just another graduation complete with the students’ excitement for their future, celebration of their achievements, and nostalgia for the friends and memories they were leaving behind. But, lying just under the surface of the festivities, I experienced both the relief that my hands-on parenting had ended and the joy that, by God’s grace, our daughter had blossomed into a sweet yet focused young lady. Mingling with the other families after the ceremony, some of whom we had known for many years, I could see my emotions reflected in the faces of the other parents. Nevertheless, for my husband and me, this ceremony marked the end of our child rearing. As she is our fourth and last child, it was our graduation, too!
Although I had tried to prepare myself mentally and emotionally for this eventuality, the ceremony suddenly made my graduation a reality. Taking a deep breath as we stepped out the door, my eyes glanced upward to the distant horizon. Remnants of the sunset shone brightly against the dark rain clouds overhead. Three more steps forward and I felt a burden, like a heavy knapsack, suddenly lifting from my back. Stopping to take in the moment, I smiled in amazement, not expecting such an emotional response to my graduation. Was this a God-moment? Certainly! He removed the ‘burden’ of active parenting from my shoulders. Praise God! Our parent-child relationship will now grow into one that is more like “Let’s share life as equals.”
As I shared this story with others over the following weeks, I was still in awe that God allowed me to sense the change in my role with my children. However, I wondered, “What happened to that knapsack?” Did it just dissipate into nothingness like a deleted file on the computer? Two months later God revealed the answer: the knapsack did NOT dissolve. God is wearing it on HIS back! He is looking after my kids now - protecting them, guiding them, and drawing them closer to Him. Ah, another God-moment! God is so good!
Yes, I know from my experience with my other grown children, that adulthood is not an event but a process, yet, knowing that God is now their primary care-giver has given me a great sense of freedom to open my heart to whatever God has planned anew for me. His yoke is light. As He leads me, my heart sings, my steps lighten, and my eyes shine brighter. “Give your burdens to the Lord, and He will take care of you” (Psalm 55:22).

What Kind of Sacrifice?

2008-11-30T11:50:00.000-08:00

“With Jesus’ help, let us continually offer our sacrifice of praise to God by proclaiming the glory of His name.” Hebrews 13:15 NLT

The very word “sacrifice” sends a chill up the collective backs of today’s modern society. The sacrifices that families made during the first half of the 20th century pale when contrasted with the pleasures enjoyed throughout the peace and prosperity of the following fifty years. That prosperity was fuelled by attitudes of “me first” and “I want it all”. Yet, despite these new cultural influences, families today still struggle with the issue of sacrifice.

Families have to make choices. In our case, once we started having children, my husband and I faced issues such as:
1. Should he work overtime to earn more money in order for us to have nicer things, or, should he arrive home at an earlier hour to help sow our values into our children’s hearts?
2. Should I give up my career aspirations in favour of being a constant influence in the lives of our children?
We chose family values over worldly accumulation: he would be home by dinnertime and I would be a stay-at-home mom. This decision began years of living on one income struggling to meet the daily needs of our children. As the years passed, I hung onto some dreams, but reluctantly gave up on others. Although during this time of sacrifice there were overwhelming blessings, I still felt a sense of grief over my perceived losses.

Today, as our four grown-up kids find their way in the world, I explore new territory in this next phase of life. Whereas, before, I served God and His purposes by staying home with the kids, now I serve Him in new and different ways. I respond to God’s promptings rather than those of my children. I dwell on God’s wisdom rather than the latest school report card. I meditate upon His Word rather than the soccer club’s newsletter. I hear His whispers of love and guidance rather than the piercing call of “Mom!”

This phase is about be-ing first, then do-ing. I concentrate on be-ing the soft, caring, and creative woman that He designed by acknowledging the gifts and passions He knit into me in my mother’s womb. Then out of this be-ing overflows the do-ing by which God spreads His blessings. Do I feel guilty about concerning myself with such heavenly things? Yes, but only a little. Now, I do not have to sacrifice my dreams, hopes, and aspirations because God has saved them for such a time as this and given them back to me.

Today, I give God the sacrifice of praise!
Lord, I praise you for creating me so marvelously! Lord, I praise you for the plans you have for me! Lord, I praise you for your grace and mercy and love! Amen!

Credentials

2008-11-29T15:09:00.000-08:00

“For I was circumcised when I was eight days old, having been born into a pure-blooded Jewish family that is a branch of the tribe of Benjamin. So, I am a real Jew if there ever was one! What’s more, I was a member of the Pharisees, who demand the strictest obedience to the Jewish law. And zealous? Yes, in fact, I harshly persecuted the church. And I obeyed the Jewish law so carefully that I was never accused of any fault.” Philippians 3:5, 6 NLT

The Apostle Paul's credentials are impressive! His family heritage and career success are impeccable. Pondering my credentials, I thought of my significant family heritage. Notable names in my genealogy include many kings of England: Edward I, II, III, Henry I, II, III, Alfred the Great, Edward the Elder, Edmund I, II, and Ethelred II. As well, included are Emperor Charlemagne, William the Conqueror (King of England and Duke of Normandy), and Joan Plantagenet. Further, my American ancestry includes a Governor, military officials, and even Roger Williams. He was the founder of the State of Rhode Island where separation of church and state was the norm unlike the other colonies, which continued the English tradition of state run religion. More recently in my ancestry, I lay claim to being the granddaughter of a highly decorated man who was a spy for the Allies during World War I. Although my family heritage may be significant, my career success is not. Therefore, in a contest of credentials, I cannot boast with self-importance like Paul!

Paul appears to be bragging to the Christians at Philippi about his qualifications as a preacher to reinforce the authority of his message. However, his next statement makes his point:

“I once thought all these things were so very important, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done. Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the priceless gain of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” (3:7, 8).

Paul emphasized that Christ's credentials were more meaningful to him than his earthly ones. He explains: “In Christ, I am blessed and God is blessed. I am adopted into His family. I receive gifts from Him including the Holy Spirit. My sins are forgiven and I am redeemed. I was chosen to be His even before He created the world. He has made me part of His overall plan. I am free from sin and am holy. I have victory over earthly powers. And, in Christ, I have hope and assurance of eternal life with Him in Heaven.” [Eph 1:3-14 paraphrased] Christ's actions grant us credentials in the spiritual realm. As part of Christ's family, we receive forgiveness, grace and hope today and eternity in heaven with God tomorrow.

Thank you, Jesus, for these blessings based on your everlasting credentials!

More Than A Manicure

2008-11-23T23:49:00.001-08:00

“As a result of the King’s decree, Esther, along with many other young women, was brought to the King’s harem . . . and given the prescribed twelve months of beauty treatments.”
Esther 2:8-12 NLT

Twelve months of beauty treatments! Can you imagine that? This Bible passage mentions six months with oil of myrrh and another six with special perfumes and ointments. As bathing in ancient times was not a regular habit, people needed to apply sweet-smelling products, such as the sap-like substance myrrh, on their bodies and clothes so as not to smell offensively. In addition, Esther would have enjoyed many manicures, pedicures, hair treatments, and perhaps even swished mouthwash. For the finale, her date with the King, she had her choice of the finest clothing and accessories. All this, to win the latest ancient reality show, “Persia’s Next Queen.”

In characterizing Esther’s beauty, Charles Swindoll, in Esther, a Woman of Strength and Dignity, includes a picture of her inner qualities as well. Through valuable lessons gained from Mordecai, the older cousin who raised her, Esther developed grace-filled charm, unusual self-restraint, a teachable spirit, an unselfish modesty, winsomeness, and respect for authority.* Quite a list! As I contemplated these character traits, I felt God nudging me with a challenge: focus for one week on an inner quality of myself that needs treatment from God. Well, I knew immediately what needed “enhancing” – my attitude of contentment.

It was October 2008; right in the middle of global stock market and economic “turmoil” and “volatility.” (These words meaning, “All my investments are rapidly disappearing!”) What should I do? Wait it out? The stock market “historically” comes out of a major decline with even greater gains. What if history does not repeat? Or, should I be calmed by the fact that I am investing with long-term goals in mind? Nevertheless, what if the value dives so low, even the long-term upswing does not make up the difference? Or, should I trust God for retirement funding, since His promise to provide is unbreakable? The level of my contentment wavered as news of each day brought with it more doubt and uncertainty.

As the market value of my investments plummeted each day that week, I leaned heavily on God’s name, Jehovah-Jireh, “I AM God who provides.” I needed to be content with God’s promise of provision. By week’s end, God’s gentle scalpel worked as I worried less and increased my trust in God. Content, now, to focus on His daily provision just like the Apostle Paul said in Philippians 4:11-13:

“I have learned to get along happily whether I have much or little. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do anything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need.”

Just as Esther diligently prepared to win the King’s affection, I, too, prepare to meet my King, God in Heaven. Thank you, Lord, for the daily beauty treatments on my inner qualities. May their results honour you and be a blessing to those you place on my path. Amen.

*Charles R. Swindoll, Esther, a Woman of Strength and Dignity (Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson), 1997, pp. 45-50.

Pushing Buttons

2008-11-21T16:47:00.000-08:00

“I waited patiently for the Lord to help me, and he turned to me and heard my cry.” Psalm 40:1 NLT

Imagine this: you are sitting in your car waiting at a red light. You look around and notice some pedestrians approaching the corner. One pushes the “walk” sign button once. Another person prepares to cross in the other direction and pushes the control button several times. Which one will get the “walk” sign first?

Or, this: you step up to an information desk and read the sign, “Ring the Bell For Service.” How many times do you need to “ring” it before the clerk appears to assist you?

Do we get a faster response by pushing the button more frequently? In some cases, yes; when expecting a person to respond. However, if the multiple rings sound demanding, the clerk may get angry and may not be very helpful. In other cases, no; one touch is enough for an electronic response, for instance, on cell phones, keyboards, and security keypads. And crossing the street? One push is all it takes. That immediately sends an electrical impulse to the timer mechanism and lets it know to put the “walk” sign on when the light changes, at its programmed time. Pushing the “walk” button several times does NOT make the light turn sooner! Frequently, response time from a machine is predictable, whereas, from a person, it is not.

As I reached out to push yet another button today, I thought about the speed at which God answers prayer in response to the repetition of our requests. How does the speed of His response compare to people and electronics? First, I looked to the Bible for answers, finding many verses on prayer, some instructional and, others, actual prayers. There are short prayers (Nehemiah 5:19) and long prayers (John 17). Prayers for provision (Psalm 23), guidance (Psalm 25:4, 5), and protection (Ps 64). Prayers for others (Ephesians 1:15-23) and for self (Eph 6:20). Prayers for wisdom (1 Kings 3:9) and salvation (Ps 106:4). And prayers of confession (2 Samuel 24:10, Ps 51). Verses also instruct us to: “Keep on praying” (I Thessalonians 5:17) and “don’t babble” (Matthew 6:7); pray by yourself (Matt 6:6) and pray in groups (Acts 1:14). Sometimes the examples and instructions seem contradictory, but with further study, one learns that there is a time and place for each method of prayer.

Next, I remembered my own experience with God answering my prayers. The other day I had a time for a ‘bullet prayer’ (a very quick short one). I was at the library reading microfilms, looking for a name on a ship’s passenger list for our family history project. It is very tedious work and hard on the eyes – always scanning the pages right to left as they move across the screen. I had come to the end of the reel without finding the name but I had other evidence convincing me that it must be on this particular reel. With a sigh, I decided to have another look and prayed: “please let me find this name.” I started fast reversing, stopping every now and again, looking to get back to the place where I thought the name should be. And – there it was! The reel stopped right on the page with the name I was looking for! Hooray! Thank you, God, for such a quick response! I only had to ask once. Although it was a small request, God favoured me with His quick reply. Unfortunately, there are other requests I have made for a long time, repeatedly, that have not been answered, yet. For these, I add the prayer of patience!

Finally, I conclude that just as the buttons we push here on earth have different response times, so does God answer our prayers with varying swiftness. He responds according to His will (Matt 6:10) AND to what our heart attitude is (Ps 139:1) for “your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him” (Matt 6:8). Even though God knows what we need, He still wants us to ask so that we may come to know Him better as He reveals His goodness to us through His answers. In this way, we grow to trust and love Him more every day.

Lord, I know that you have the power to answer all our prayers and the wisdom to provide what is right for us. I thank you that you want a relationship with us; that we can ask for what we need and want BUT that you will give us what is best and what fits into your ‘big picture’. Thank you that your responses are not generated mechanically but are sent with love, wisdom, grace and mercy. Help us; help me to accept your timing with appreciation and humility! Amen.

Don't Touch That!

2008-11-14T23:25:00.000-08:00

“Do not take any of the things set apart for destruction, or you yourselves will be completely destroyed, and you will bring trouble on all Israel. Everything made from silver, gold, bronze, or iron is sacred to the Lord and must be brought into his treasury.” Joshua 6:18-19 NLT

Very clear instructions, indeed! The Israelites were on their final phase of attack against the city of Jericho and these words, spoken through Joshua, were God’s reminder of His rules of engagement. The attack went well: the walls of Jericho fell and the Israelites destroyed everything as God commanded. Or, so it seemed. However, the Bible reveals a secret that only God knew: “But Israel was unfaithful concerning the things set apart for the Lord. A man named Achan had stolen some of these things, so the Lord was very angry with the Israelites” (7:1). In the meantime, Joshua sent a small army of three thousand soldiers to conquer the next town, called Ai, but they were soundly defeated. Dismayed and confused at the loss, Joshua begged God to explain what had gone wrong. The Lord answered that, “Israel has sinned and broken my covenant. They have stolen the things that I commanded to be set apart for me . . . and lied about it and hidden the things” (7:11).

The next morning, Joshua called out the whole nation of Israel and, through a process of elimination, Achan was identified as the guilty one. He quickly confessed telling them exactly what he took and where he hid the items. Joshua’s men retrieved the stolen goods and lay them out before him. Joshua declared the punishment: “The Lord will now bring trouble on you”: Achan and his family were immediately stoned by all the Israelites. One decision by one ordinary man brought significant consequences upon his whole family. That day, his family line ended. God showed that He would not tolerate disobedience. What a sad mistake it was not to take God’s commands seriously.

Whoa! Time to take a solemn pause. This one ill-conceived decision resulted in many dire consequences;
- The Lord became angry;
- The whole nation of Israel was deemed unfaithful by association;
- Thirty-six soldiers were killed in the defeat at Ai leaving their families without the breadwinner;
- Achan’s own family members suffered the ultimate penalty;
- There was no second chance for Achan; and
- All the Israelites were involved in the stoning. That was over one million people! Each one had a turn at retribution.
Why did Achan’s family also have to suffer for his sin? The Bible does not answer that one specifically but, in ancient times, it was common for a family to prosper or suffer as did their leader. They were guilty by association and the extent of the sin needed to be purged. Sinning is serious business. Not only do we separate ourselves from God, but also we potentially ‘infect’ others around us.

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life” (Psalm 139:23, 24). Lord, forgive me for rationalizing that some of my sins are trivial and without consequences. Help me to realize that no matter what rating I place on my sins, they still create a chasm between you and me. Thank you, Father God, for the sacrifice of your son, Jesus, on the cross that allows forgiveness of sins, freedom from their penalties and reconciliation with you. All my praise goes to you, Lord! (Ephesians 1:6, 7) Amen.

The Significance of an Ordinary One: Rahab

2008-11-08T19:28:00.000-08:00

“For the LORD your God is the supreme God of the heavens above and the earth below.” Joshua 2:11 NLT

After escaping from the clutches of the Egyptian Pharaoh forty years earlier, the Israelites had ended their desert wandering and were preparing for their next step. Camped on the east side of the Jordan River eyeing the Promised Land on the other side, they listened carefully to the instructions of their new leader, Joshua. In this story of the taking of Jericho, several characters play important roles. Among them, one ordinary woman stood out from the crowd, making a significant impact on her family for generations.

The Ordinary One:
Before crossing the Jordan, Joshua sent two spies to reconnoiter in and around Jericho. Arriving at the house of Rahab, a local prostitute, they discreetly obtained the information Joshua needed. However, someone overheard their conversation and notified the King of Jericho who promptly had Rahab questioned. She, knowing that “the Israelite God was the supreme God of the heavens and earth,” lied, sending the King’s men away to look for the Israelites elsewhere. Then, hurrying back to the spies, she made them promise, because of her help, to save her whole family from destruction when their army came to capture Jericho. Upon promising to do so, Rahab showed them a secret exit from the city so that they could return safely to Joshua with their report. (Joshua 2)

The Significance:
One week later, on the day that God would hand over Jericho to the Israelites for destruction, Joshua included in his instructions for the assault, “Only Rahab the prostitute and the others in her house will be spared, for she protected our spies.” As a result of recognizing the one true God, she, “her father, mother, brothers, and all the other relatives . . . were moved to a safe place near the camp of Israel” (6:17, 22, 23). Rahab’s beliefs and actions saved all the members of her family.

My Reflection:
Amazing! Rahab’s convictions saved dozens of people. Further, not only did Rahab’s family survive the Israelite onslaught, she is listed in the genealogy of Jesus! One ordinary, yet brave, woman made a significant difference! Thinking about this story, I am in awe of her courage to stand alone in her convictions. I wonder if any decision I have made has had such a similar impact on my family. Perhaps only time will tell. Although my family has not been under threat from an invading army, we are under daily spiritual attacks by the evil one who “prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for some victim to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Knowing this, I must “take a firm stand against him, and be strong in [my] faith” (5:9). Without doubt, even though I am also an ordinary one, committing my life to Jesus, praying for the salvation of my family members, and standing firm in my faith are significant actions in God’s eyes. Lord, I pray that in all situations I will make decisions that honour you, thereby allowing your blessings to flow upon my family and the generations that follow!

Fears and Obstacles

2008-11-08T00:41:00.000-08:00

“But the Lord is with us! Don’t be afraid of them!” Number 14:9

Soon after the Lord led the Hebrews out of Egypt, He brought them to the border of Canaan. There He instructed Moses to send twelve spies into “the land I am giving to Israel” (Num 13:2) who were to return with a report describing the inhabitants, towns, and crops. Forty days later, the scouts’ report included not only positive descriptions of fertile land and bountiful crops but also fear-filled tales of well-fortified towns and a people of great strength and height. While ten of the spies encouraged the Hebrews to retreat to Egypt, the other two, Joshua and Caleb, countered with, “but the Lord is with us! Don’t be afraid of them!”

What courage Joshua and Caleb showed in the face of tremendous opposition. As witnesses to the power of God through the miraculous rescue of the Hebrews from slavery in Egypt, they knew in their hearts that, with God on their side, they need not be afraid of the task before them. The fears expressed by the ten spies were only valid from humanity’s perspective not from God’s omnipotent vantage point.

Reading this story reminds me of the many times I have come up against obstacles. Frequently I assume they are signs to go in another direction just like the ten spies. Other times, I know He wants me to put my fears and concerns away and trust Him as I move forward through the obstacles knowing He will be with me. How do I know which way to go? I pray more; listen and watch for God to give further indications; and keep reading my Bible.

At a time during my Bible College studies, I came up against more and more challenging requirements for the assignments. I struggled between giving up and pressing on. However, through prayer, I sensed God telling me to keep going, and with encouragement from friends, I knew that God would wonderfully inspire me to complete these assignments. In doing so, I would increase my personal testimony of God’s power working in me to overcome these and other earthly obstacles.

For their faithfulness, Caleb and Joshua entered the Promised Land forty years later. I pray that by looking past my obstacles and fears and by trusting God, I will be blessed and rewarded as were these two courageous spies!

Roller Coaster - A Meditation of Psalm 42

2008-11-07T23:44:00.000-08:00

Introduction: Having experienced life’s roller coaster of emotions, the psalmist shares the sadness and the solution and I reflect upon my own rides with depression and recovery.

1. The Psalmist’s Sadness: “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God? My tears have been my food day and night, while men say to me all day long, ‘Where is your God?’”

Me: I, too, have felt verbal arrows flung at me from others who do not know God the way I do. How my souls thirsts for God’s protection.

The Psalmist’s Solution: “These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go with the multitude, leading the processions to the house of God, with shouts of joy and thanksgiving among the festive throng.”

Me: I, too, when suffering under other’s doubts remind myself to focus on God’s goodness to raise my spirits above the condemnation of my enemies. I join with others in joyful praise and worship.

2.The Psalmist’s Sadness: “Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me?”

Me: In grade 11, I waved the white flag of surrender to my parents’ discipline after three years of teenage rebellion. However, at the defeat, I became depressed. Why can I not do what I want? Why can you not accept me as I am?

The Psalmist’s Solution: “Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”

Me: If only I had accessed this solution to my teenage depression.

3.The Psalmist’s Sadness: “My soul is downcast within me.”

Me: At age 21, I spent the summer working out of town, away from the love of my life. Depression overcame me.

The Psalmist’s Solution: “I will remember you from the land of the Jordan, the heights of Hermon-from Mount Mizar.”

Me: If only I had turned to God, even while in the far away place, to receive His compassion and love.

4.The Psalmist’s Sadness: “Deep calls to deep in the roar of your waterfalls; all your waves and breakers have swept over me.”

Me: After the birth of my second child, postpartum depression struck me like large waves crashing on the beach. The oft-repeated ad on TV and radio chanted, “I need a vacation,” but it did not matter if I needed a vacation because we could not afford it and my husband could not fathom the depths of the breakers engulfing me.

The Psalmist’s Solution: “By day the LORD directs his love, at night his song is with me - a prayer to the God of my life.”

Me: If only I could have recognized God’s song in my life back then.

5.The Psalmist’s Sadness: “I say to God my Rock, “Why have you forgotten me? Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?” My bones suffer moral agony as my foes taunt me, saying to me all day long, “Where is your God?” Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me?”

Me: I was about to turn 40 and became deeply depressed again: feeling useless, incapable of doing anything right or even accomplishing anything at all. Nevertheless, I was a Christian then – where was my God? I thought Christians were always happy.

The Psalmist’s Solution: “Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.”

Me: Finally, I put my hope in God! I prayed, studied His Word, and sang songs of praise. Slowly, with medicine, counseling, others praying for me, and making time each week for creative projects, I climbed back to mental health. I praised my Savior and my God, for I knew then that He had not forsaken me.

Conclusion: The Psalmist’s practice of turning to God every time he felt discouraged, forgotten, or oppressed is one that I am actively following. Since that last bout of depression, turning to God is a regular activity for me in order to avoid sinking into despair again. At the slightest hint of a negative mood, I now turn to Scripture, listen to worship music and give thanks to God to help me lift up my heart and soul to Him. I focus on God, not my problems. The Psalmist’s pattern is now my pattern for maintaining mental and emotional health. Today, my emotions are less of a roller coaster and more of a ripple in a pond.

Lord, I pray for my readers who suffer from depression that, amongst their collection of coping habits, they will follow the Psalmist’s pattern of repeatedly turning to you, of putting their hope in you, and of praising you for being the God of their life. Lord, thank you that, as our souls thirst for you, you pour out your love upon us, quenching our every need. Amen.

What's More Important? Doing or Being?

2008-10-28T13:17:00.000-07:00

“Don’t rejoice just because evil spirits obey you; rejoice because your names are registered as citizens of heaven.” Luke 10:20 NLT

What aspects of our lives do we celebrate? When do we say, “Hooray for me,” or “You’re the best”? From our first steps as a baby to the end of our academic years, we celebrate each other’s successes. Beyond educational life, we celebrate goals reached in the business world and contributions made to the community. We give parties, gifts, and awards to people who reach certain milestones or achieve great things. We do this to thank, recognize, honour, and reward the person; and to encourage and inspire others to aim for these same great heights. Some of the rewarded activities are for personal gain and others are for the benefit of others. In all cases, the celebrated person has not achieved alone; other people have contributed in many ways thus the rejoicing is shared.

In my life, I have had many occasions to rejoice over both my own achievements and those of various family members and friends. Certainly, others were integral to each successful outcome. But, after the celebration, then what? There is usually an emotional letdown as we return to the routines of our daily lives. The rejoicing over DOING has a limited shelf life.

This is what Jesus was telling His disciples in the passage from Luke. They had just returned from their first mission trip and, joyfully, told Jesus of their many successes including the healing of several demon-possessed people. Jesus acknowledged their triumphs but reminded them: “I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy” (Luke 10:17-19). In other words, their success relied on Another Person. Then He brought their inflated egos back down to a more important reality: “rejoice because your names are registered as citizens of heaven.”

Wow! Even though we achieve and celebrate many successes during our life, from Jesus’ point of view, only one thing is worth rejoicing over: the decision we make to become His; to become a Christian; to accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. This state of BEING qualifies us as “citizens of heaven” and has an everlasting shelf life!

“But let the godly rejoice. Let them be glad in God’s presence. Let them be filled with joy . . . rejoice in his presence!” Psalm 68:3, 4

Lord, thank you for the abilities, wisdom, and perseverance you have given me to accomplish many things in my life so far. Thank you that these things have benefited not only me but also others. Lord, help me to keep all these things in perspective when compared to the great gift you offer: living in your presence for eternity. I rejoice, yes, I jump for joy, that you count me as one of your chosen! Lord, may my readers also accept this, your most excellent gift! To you goes all the glory!

Pondering Responsibility Within the Kingdom of God

2008-10-25T00:23:00.000-07:00

“Don’t eat meat or drink wine or do anything else if it might cause another Christian to stumble.” Romans 14:21 NLT

Is this right? Does the Apostle Paul want us to be responsible for other people’s faith journey? This seems shocking, especially compared to the world’s standard of: “I am not responsible for your reactions to my behavior” and “It doesn’t matter what I say or do, you are in control of your own responses.”

So after decades of not taking responsibility for another’s faith, I read this verse, and my walk with Jesus comes to a dead stop! How can this be? I turn to Jesus for the answer. “Yes, I want you to consider what you say and how you act in light of how it might affect another Christian’s faith.” I hang my head in stunned silence and growing guilt while I wrap my mind around this concept. Hmmm. Paul said he “was all things to all people” in order to make others relate to the Gospel message (1 Cor 9:22, 10:23-33). Peter learned to eat Gentile food and sit at their tables despite his Jewish customs against doing so (Acts 9). Paul further said, “look not only to your interests but also to the interests of others” (Phil 2:4).

What does this mean for my life? For a moment, I thought I would have to lock myself in a closet to avoid failure, as I surely cannot do this on my own! But, thankfully, I have Christ’s Spirit to direct my thoughts and actions. Certainly, it is easy to be considerate of my guests’ food choices and eating habits. But, the “don’t do anything else” is harder. God has brought three issues to my mind: I need to arrive on time for church services, exude more humility about my abilities, and give Him more credit for my successes!

Just as I dare to become responsible for not hindering another’s faith, you, too, may want to take on this challenge. Lord, please wring out the worldly influences in my life and wash me with your Kingdom love so that I might be Christ’s sweet fragrance in the world.

Appreciating God's Creation!

2008-10-25T00:16:00.000-07:00

“God saw all that He had made, and behold, it was very good.” Genesis 1:31

Are you an early riser? Well, I’m not. Though, as an ardent photographer of God’s natural world, I seek every opportunity to capture the essence of His intricate and magnificent creation. Not only am I inspired by visually exploring nature first-hand but also by the works of other photographers. Seeing others’ experiences of a sunrise almost compels me to seek the same experience. I say, ‘almost’, because usually the physical desire for sleep overcomes the emotional need for the anticipated joy of viewing the beautiful beginning of a morning. If I’m up early it’s usually because I’m rushing to an appointment and then miss the sunrise anyway!

Do I need to see every sunrise in order to appreciate God’s work in our world? No, I can observe His amazing power and glory in other ways. His creation is all around me – I just have to notice it. Whether it is in the plant life, the geography, the skies, or even the people I meet, His creation is before me to appreciate at all times of the day and night.

While I did see this beautiful sunrise, I usually try to focus on seeing God's handiwork in everything and everyone I come across. The more I am amazed at His creation, the more I love God and appreciate His work in me, too. I acknowledge that I am His rays of light to shine His love on others.

Take a few moments now to notice and appreciate God’s creation around you. Then notice the goodness He’s created in you, too, and thank Him for this blessing!

What to do with Forgiveness

2008-10-22T17:14:00.000-07:00

“But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from every wrong.” 1 John 1:9 NLT

In my early days as a Christian, I used God’s gift of forgiveness like a swinging gate. On one side there was the sinful behavior. However, after the delight of the sin had worn off, guilt and sorrow would set in causing me to run to God’s gate to confess my sin. Then, knowing that God had forgiven me, I walked through the gate where relief and gratitude would meet me on the other side. This side of the gate offered me yet another chance to be a “good” Christian despite my willful and repeated disobedience. Deep in my heart, I was thankful for God’s bottomless basket of forgiveness. Unfortunately, in hindsight, I recognize that there was no true repentance on my part as there was no true turning away from those sinful behaviors.

But what was God’s intention for forgiveness? Here is how the Apostle Paul described the situation for us when we accepted Jesus Christ as our Savior:

“When you came to Christ . . . there was a spiritual procedure-the cutting away of your sinful nature. . . Then God made you alive with Christ. He forgave all our sins. God disarmed the evil [influences] . . . by his victory over them on the cross of Christ.” Colossians 2:11-15.

I did not appreciate this victory over sin until I was much older and had recommitted my life to Christ deciding to focus on Him, not on the tantalizing treasures of society’s norms. I had seen and suffered the effects of sin enough that I wanted to be on the forgiveness side of the swinging gate. I wanted to obey God and heed Paul’s warning:

“Don’t let anyone lead you ashtray with empty philosophy and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and the evil powers of this world, not from Christ . . . So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual sin, impurity, lust, and shameful desires. Don’t be greedy for the good things of this life, for that is idolatry . . . Get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. Don’t lie to each other. ” Col 2:8, 3:5-9.

What to do with God’s forgiveness? Accept it! Truly repent! Realize that now:
I am setting my “sights on the realities of heaven”;
I am clothed with a “brand-new nature that is continually being renewed as [I] learn more and more about Christ, who created this new nature within [me]”;
I am clothed in “tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience”;
I “make allowance for each other’s faults and forgive the person who offends [me]”;
I wear the most important piece of clothing that is the “love that binds us all together in perfect harmony”;
I “let the peace that comes from Christ rule in” my heart and will always be thankful;
and, finally, I “let the words of Christ, in all their richness, live in” my heart and make me wise (Col 3:1-16).

Thank you, Lord, for the gift of forgiveness. I accept it gratefully! And I pray for strength and wisdom to lead a life that honors your abundant generosity!

A Speck or a Log?

2008-10-13T17:43:00.001-07:00

“Why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own?” Matthew 7:3 NLT

I look out my kitchen window everyday and see them in the neighbourhood park. I am talking about dogs running freely with tongues hanging and tails wagging. Their owners are throwing balls or sticks for them to fetch, or talking amiably with each other apparently ignoring where their dogs are. Such a happy scene for them, but not for me. As I continue gazing, my temperature is rising. I am fuming! I imagine a conversation/confrontation such as:

Me: “THIS IS NOT A DOG PARK! What gives you the right to take over the park?”
Them: Oh, MY dog is friendly and doesn’t bite.
Me: But I just want to walk peacefully and enjoy the nature in the park. I don’t want to be looking over my shoulder wondering if your dog will run up to me to smell me or jump up to lick my face.
Them: (Glaring, they swear at me and walk away.)

As I turn away from the park scene I wonder why some dog owners blatantly disregard the signs that say, “Dogs must be on leash.”

Recently, words spoken by Jesus strolled through my mind:

“Stop judging others, and you will not be judged. For others will treat you as you treat them. Whatever measure you use in judging others, it will be used to measure how you are judged. And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own? How can you think of saying, ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log from your own eye; then perhaps you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye.” Matthew 7:1-5 NLT

Hmmm. Could this apply to me when I see these dog owners? Of course not! I certainly do not have any behaviors that disrespect others. However . . . maybe God wants to unmask some situations that I need to clean up. What could I possibly do that irritates others? Do I have to admit these things? Ok, I admit I did water the lawn twice this summer when it was not our day. Were my neighbours annoyed? Oh, I do talk on my cell phone when driving. Does that irritate some drivers? Well, I occasionally drive over the speed limit but mostly I stick to the posted speed. I wonder which one frustrates other drivers more. And, I allow myself to get caught up in details unnecessarily. I know that bothers some people!

Well, Lord, I am humbled now! Perhaps I am no better than these dog owners; or people who speed; or drivers who do not stop at stop signs. Forgive my arrogance, Lord. Help me to love the imperfections in others and to change the behaviors in me that irritate others. Fill me with your grace and mercy!

A Coat of Paint

2008-10-13T16:35:00.000-07:00

“I could ask the darkness to hide me . . . but even in darkness I cannot hide from you, Lord.” Psalm 139:11-12

“A coat of paint hides a multitude of sins.” You’ve heard this phrase, right? Metaphorically, “sins” are marks, gouges, cracks and blemishes that appear on walls, ceilings and other paintable surfaces. Literally, a coat or two of paint does cover most indiscretions and quickly restores beauty to any object. Actually, I get much satisfaction from painting things around my home and seeing the resulting fresh new looks. But, as I admire my finished work, I also closely examine the surface to see if the blemishes show through or not. Did I prepare the surface properly? Did I actually remove or repair the damage as if it was not there in the first place?

I also love painting because, while it involves some physical exertion, my mind is free to contemplate greater issues. While painting recently, I wondered how effective I am at covering up my own “sins.” For my personal exterior, I make sure I dress well, apply make-up to my face, and tidy the house before guests arrive. This way, you cannot see the scars from a surgery, the ‘love handles’, or my household clutter. For my personal interior, I try to keep negative and hurtful thoughts from spilling out of my mouth because they are there just waiting to be expressed. Do I fool people as to my virtue? Maybe some, but not those who know me well!

But then I think about God. Ah yes. “You have examined my heart and know everything about me” (Ps 139:1). I resign myself to accept that no amount of “paint” can hide my sins from God. As the psalmist says, “even in darkness I cannot hide from you.” What can I do? What can we do to remove the blemish of our sins? The answer requires action on both our part and God’s. The Apostle John explains: “But if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from every wrong. . . . Jesus Christ’s death is the sacrifice for our sins. He takes away not only our sins but the sins of all the world” (1 John 1:9, 2:2).

Thank you, Lord Jesus, that I don’t have to remain hidden in darkness under a “coat of paint” because of my sins. Lord, I confess my sins and ask your forgiveness. Thank you for paying the penalty for my sins. Thank you for giving me a new look and bringing me out the darkness into the light. Amen.

A Burden Shared . . . is better!

2008-10-13T15:03:00.000-07:00

“Carry each other’s burdens.” Galatians 6:2 NIV

My daughter’s friend was in a desperate situation. She had a choice to make and both options would dramatically affect her present and her future. While my heart broke over the friend’s circumstances, I was equally concerned for my daughter’s state of mind and health as she walked with her friend through this dark valley. Even over the phone, stress was evident in her voice as she could barely put a sentence together when telling me this unfortunate story. Further, she admitted that the strain was dulling her appetite and keeping her awake at night. On top of this, she had to keep up with her college assignments and part-time work. After giving her some motherly advice, I promised to pray for her and her friend.

My daughter knows I pray about everything, so, even though she may not be praying, she is glad I am. Although I prayed for two days about this situation and its outcome, I still felt a nagging anxiety. But wait! Praying is supposed to replace worry with peace. Jesus says in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” I have done this before and experienced God’s peace, but it was not “working” this time. What more did God want me to do? Then I remembered advice the Apostle Paul gave to the Galatians, “Carry each other’s burdens.” The Greek word for ‘burden’ is baros, which means: a weight (eg. boulder) too big for us to carry alone. Yes, this burden was too heavy for me. I quickly emailed the members of my church Small Group and asked them to pray, too. (This is something we do for each other while keeping all issues confidential.) As soon as I clicked, “send”, I felt the burden of worry lift from my shoulders! Yes, this is why God wants us to be believers in community not believers in isolation. “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn”(Romans 12:15). Together, we draw nearer to God.

Despite our prayers in favour of one of the options, the friend chose the other. We who prayed were disappointed that God did not allow a different outcome, but consoled ourselves as the Lord says, “My thoughts are completely different from yours, and my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine” (Isaiah 55:8). We were thankful that my daughter’s stress ended and she returned to her usual self. Even though God knows our every thought and situation, He does not always intervene on our decisions (Psalm 139).

Thank you, God, that you listen to my concerns and give me peace while I wait for the answers. It is in your peace that I acknowledge that, no matter what the circumstances, “your mighty power reaches throughout the world” (14:26). I pray that others will share their burdens, too, so that together we may see your mighty works and glorify your name. Amen.

Mediocrity vs Excellence

2008-10-08T23:41:00.000-07:00

“But those who wait on the Lord will find new strength. They will fly high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31 NLT

If excellence is 10/10 and failure is 1/10, then mediocrity is 5/10, meaning not too good and not too bad. For many years I felt I lived a life of mediocrity. How did I come to that conclusion? In school, I was a “B” student, neither excelling nor failing. As a young adult, I held jobs that paid above minimum wage but far below the top wage earners in the company. As a young mother, I watched my friends live in fancier homes, go on expensive holidays and buy the best foot-ware for their children. Do not misunderstand me, poverty was not knocking at our door, for, as a single income family, we managed, but some days I thought it was a mediocre existence. (Those feelings were probably exaggerated by, or caused by, my bouts with depression.) In short, I thought that living a life of excellence meant having the best things and being successful in the eyes of the world. Even after I recommitted my life to Jesus at mid-life, I searched for Christian books and practices that would lead me to “Christian excellence.” I wanted to succeed as a Christian from the world’s point of view. My thought was that Christians who lived above mediocrity were at the top of their earthly professions, lived in expensive homes, and took far-away vacations. How could I “soar on eagles’ wings” for God and break out of that zone of mediocrity?

Recently I picked up the book called, “Living Above the Level of Mediocrity” by Charles Swindoll – again, in hopes of finding that magic formula for excellence! Even before finishing the book, God showed me that I am already on the path to living a life of excellence according to His way! One of Swindoll's key points is that soaring above mediocrity means living from the perspective of Another Kingdom: surrendering my goals for God’s goals; giving rather than receiving; looking from God’s divine perspective not my earthly limited one; admitting weakness in order to be strengthened; and other such odd mentalities compared to society’s secular expectations.

Through this book with its many Scripture references and the Holy Spirit working in me through my own Bible study and prayer, I am slowly redefining my views of mediocrity and excellence. Now, I see mediocrity is a result of only half-heartedly serving God but excellence occurs when whole-heartedly turning all areas of one’s life over to Him. By waiting upon the Lord, as the verse in Isaiah says, we will receive strength, ability and direction to carry out His tasks and to achieve His purposes. In that way, we will soar like eagles and God’s excellence will result!

Smooth Sailing or Not?

2008-10-08T23:25:00.000-07:00

“The Lord was with Joseph, making everything run smoothly and successfully.” Genesis 39:23 NLT

Wow! Joseph was close to God and God blessed his work. So, all I need to do is to be close to God and my life will be successful, too? hmm . . . Well, that was my first thought when I read this scripture verse. But wait, God was with others in the Bible and they suffered tremendously. Daniel was thrown to the lions and his friends tossed into a furnace. David spent years running away from attacks by King Saul. Peter and John were thrown into jail and frequently beaten. And yet, God was with these men.
The Apostle Paul details his suffering while serving God in 2 Cor 11:23-29 and 6:3-10: more jail time, more whipping, five times thirty-nine lashes, three times beaten with rods, once stoned, three times ship-wrecked; adrift at sea, traveled far, faced danger from natural disasters and unsympathetic people; hungry, thirsty, and cold.
Now, what I am to think? Paul shares his perspective:

“Three different times I begged the Lord to take [my pain] away. Each time He said, ‘My gracious favour is all you need. My power works best in your weakness.’ So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may work through me. . . . It is all for Christ’s good, I am quite content with my weaknesses and [sufferings].” 2 Cor 12:8-10

OK Lord, whether you give me smooth waters to sail or rocky cliffs to climb, I will rejoice because you are with me and working all events to your good purposes.

Small, but Significant!

2008-09-26T00:16:00.000-07:00

The mountain ranger concluded: “Now that you can see the power of the eruption I hope you will see that you are very small and insignificant.” Even though I had been 300 miles away from Mount Saint Helens at the time of this catastrophic event, I had felt a part of the volcano’s eruption because its ash had fallen on my car. Now, twenty-eight years later, I finally got to view the devastation for myself. Of course, much of the affected area had come back to life with healthy forests, alpine flowers and wildlife, but much was still in its moonscape-like condition. The ranger listed some amazing statistics:

*The eruption caused the whole north face of Mount Saint Helen's to collapse creating a HUGE avalanche of massive rocks;
*The avalanche debris, being several hundred feet high, changed the dimensions of nearby Spirit Lake and slammed down the Toutle River covering the riverbed for 14 miles with 300 – 600 feet high of rock and ash;
*The eruption caused volcanic ash to shot thousands of feet up in the air - it was this ash that floated north to Victoria;
*All the trees within a 150 square mile radius were either blown over or left dead standing (these are still visible today).

As the ranger described the effects of the eruption, my eyes were riveted to the landscape. Yes, I did feel small and insignificant compared to nature’s power! If we are in the way of a landslide, tsunami, twister, or flood, nature does not go around. It sweeps us away, crushes us with debris, drowns us with water, or suffocates us with wind. There is no mercy!

Yet, I AM significant in the eyes of the One who created and controls the power of nature. I am wonderfully and intricately made; my parts were marvelously knit together in my mother’s womb. Every day of my life was recorded in God’s book even before a single day had passed. He knows my every thought and His thoughts about me are precious. (Psalm 139.) God loved the world, and me, so much that He gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16.) As a Christian I am blessed, adopted into God’s family, and receive gifts from Him including the Holy Spirit. My sins are forgiven and I am redeemed. I was chosen to be His even before He created the world. He has made me a part of His overall plan. With Christ in me I am holy and have hope and assurance of eternal life with Him in heaven. (Eph 1:3-14.) And if chaos swirls around me God is my refuge and strength. (Psalm 46.)

How great is the Lord God Almighty! And how small I am in the universe. But thank you God for creating me and considering me significant!

Pluto Demoted!

2008-09-25T21:39:00.000-07:00

“Everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life” John 3:16

“Pluto Demoted!” This was the declaration by the International Astronomical Union on August 24, 2006, upon the completion of its annual General Assembly. Amazing! In just a few short days, the 2500 astronomers talked science and decided to reclassify Pluto, what we had known as the ninth planet in our Solar System, as a “dwarf planet”. What God had created in the beginning of time as “good” (Gen 1:14-19) was abruptly given a lower standing by humankind!

Mulling on this announcement, I thought that it is OK to change the status of Pluto as we gain more understanding of the universe, but what about our standing with God? Can our status suffer the same demotion? Can our salvation be changed by a vote? Although this is a serious theological question not easily answered quickly, here are a few Bible verses to consider that give us assurance of our status with God:

1. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). If we believe in Jesus, we will receive eternal life.

2. “Turn from your sins and turn to God” (Matt 4:17) and “But anyone who obeys God’s laws and teaches them will be great in the Kingdom of Heaven” (Matt 5:19). Confess your sins, change your ways to God’s ways (repent), and show others the way then you will have rewards in heaven.

3. “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbour as yourself.’ ‘Right!’ Jesus told him. ‘Do this and you will live!’” (Luke 10:27, 28). Focusing all of our being on God and then sharing his love with others will keep secure our good status with God.

In order not to have our status with God reclassified, let us not only consider these verses but also study the Bible for more implications of faith and pray that God will guide and keep us in his Way.

God's Spendid Gift

2008-09-25T21:21:00.000-07:00

“His brilliant splendor fills the heavens, and the earth is filled with His praise!
What a wonderful God He is!” Habakkuk 3:3 NLT

“Wake up, my dear.”
“Who’s talking to me?” I muttered.
“I want to show you something beautiful!”
Groan. Looking out the curtainless window, I saw the soft blue pre-dawn light mingling with the pale yellow-orange rays of the anticipated sun. “Oh, Lord, I specifically prayed last night that you’d let me sleep-in today since I’ve already been up to see the past two sunrises.”
“Get up, my dear. It’s what you’ve been waiting for. It’s my gift to you for your patience.”
Well, how could I refuse God? I had come to the countryside hoping to capture some picturesque scenes of the nearby farms. The previous mornings I awoke early and slipped out of the house to photograph the sunrise. Both times, however, I arrived at my vantage point a little late for the actual appearance of the sun and both days had been a little cloudy. But, today, it was a half hour earlier. I knew I would arrive in time! So, even though still groggy, I dressed, grabbed my camera and off I went – believing that God would present me with a magnificent show! Walking quickly down the road, I searched for the spot that would match my long-dreamed-about perfect sunrise photo. “Just a few more meters,” I panted to myself as I now jogged down the street. Then I saw it: the perfect scene! A pond, a farm fence, a tractor, some outbuildings, and a clear sightline to the distant prairie horizon. And even more perfect–there was a cool mist floating over the gently rolling green pastures! I could hardly wait to capture the magnificent scene that God would unfold before me! Two hundred photos and forty-five minutes later, I praised Him who created this world and loved me enough to share its beauty with me!
Has God prompted you recently to follow Him on a certain path? Are there obstacles in your way? Trust Him and He will bless you with gifts beyond your expectations!

Just Over the Next Ridge

2008-09-18T14:48:00.000-07:00

“Show me the path where I should walk, O Lord; point out the right road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you.” Psalm 25:4, 5 NLT

The leader of our hiking group had been there before. She excitedly described our destination as a mountain meadow littered with alpine flowers surrounded by pine trees. A view to the glistening lake below and the mountains rising in the distance would cap the visual delight once we arrived at the Glacier Glades. It sounded great as I love being in the great outdoors! Knowing that the round trip would take about two hours, I packed my knapsack accordingly with two water bottles, camera equipment, a snack, raincoat, and cell phone. However, my confident feeling of readiness was shattered when I heard the word: “bears”. My heart stopped! Oh, my! I had not even thought about bears and certainly had not packed any bear spray. Now what? It was too late to back out so I put on a brave face. We determined that if we made noise with loud voices and by stepping on crackling dry leaves and branches, the bears would not approach us. Now, confident of our equipment and plans, we headed off on our mission to find the Glades.

As any experienced adventure leader will attest, successfully reaching the desired destination requires not only proper equipment and plans but also knowing the right path. In the first aspect, we were ready – knapsacks were packed with the necessary tools and last minute precautions were taken. However, in the second aspect, we had one slight problem: our leader could not quite remember exactly where to find the right path. For sure, it was just “over there”! Trustingly, we followed her onward and upward. Sometimes we followed major pathways, sometimes deer trails, and sometimes just tramped through the underbrush trying to avoid stinging nettle, blackberry thorns and whipping branches into each other’s faces. When we were not looking down watching our footsteps or looking sideways scanning the bushes for bears, we looked up to see how close we were to the top of the hill. “Oh, it should just be over this next ridge,” our leader encouraged us. However, at the top of the ridge all we saw was more forest stretching upward to yet another hilltop. “Um, maybe we’ll see the meadows over that hill.” This pattern of journeying toward a destination followed by disappointment repeated several times as we trekked about in search of the Glacier Glades.

As the hike lengthened in time, I reflected that this experience on the mountain was similar to my walk with Jesus Christ – full of ups and downs, wandering on and off the path, and looking over my shoulder at bear-like threats hovering nearby. A recurring theme in my life is one of financial struggle. At one such time, in the 90s, we operated a small business with sales that were seasonally cyclical. During the slow periods, we could not pay all our bills and relied heavily on credit. Definitely, it was a struggle to meet the needs of the business as well as our family of six. At one point in the valley of financial despair, I even wanted to apply for social assistance but my husband preferred that we do everything humanly possible to make ends meet and rely on God for the rest. With God’s help we kept the bear of bankruptcy at bay and over time our financial situation improved. Now, whenever financial pressures growl at me, I rely on God for the reality check lesson, keep my credit card in my pocket, and trust Him in all circumstances.

Wherever my walk with Jesus goes, I access the tools and habits in my “faith-sack” that keep me focused on Him. Reading the Bible reveals the nature of God and His guidelines for righteous living. Praying in faith and seeing God’s blessings in the answers removes doubt and encourages trust. Listening to His Spirit in my heart allows humility, compassion, and love to pour out. Focusing on His power and might removes fear and creates security. Accepting Jesus as my saviour gives me hope for a glorious future with Him in heaven. Even though there are hills and valleys, wanderings, threats, and disappointments on my faith journey, using the tools and habits of my “faith-sack” on a daily basis equips me to stay on God’s path eventually leading me to my God-ordained destination.

Back to our hike. Just as we were almost ready to give up our search and head back, we stumbled out of a grove of trees onto the Glacier Glades. “Hooray!” The promised scenic view rewarded our persistence. The many ridges we had climbed were now a distant memory. After a little while taking in the sights, we headed back to our car, arriving safely thankful that we had not seen any bears!

Lord, I thank you for providing me with tools to use on my faith journey. I pray that my readers will also take advantage of these in order to stay on your path and grow closer to you. May our relationship with you grow deeper and stronger. Amen.

Give up my what?

2008-09-15T23:36:00.000-07:00

“This is what the Lord says: Because you have obeyed me and not withheld even your beloved son . . . I will bless you richly.” Genesis 22:16, 17 NLT

Following God’s instructions, Abraham took his beloved son, Isaac, up the mountain, prepared an altar of wood ready for a sacrifice and tied Isaac on top of it. Disturbing? Yes! Confusing? Definitely! God had made several promises to Abraham that necessitated Isaac reaching adulthood and fathering sons. How could Abraham go through with this? He could, because he trusted God and knew that somehow Isaac would not be lost to him. “We will come right back,” he told his servants. In the end, Abraham obeyed, a ram was sacrificed not Isaac, and God blessed him for his obedience.

A compelling story, is it not? I take a deep breath and slowly exhale as I consider the ramifications. Could I? Would I give up my “beloveds” if God asked, or even demanded it? Easily, I could give up my home, most of my belongings, and my car. Grudgingly, I could give up my camera, my wedding rings, and my computer. I could even give up my dreams, hopes, and aspirations if I was clear on God’s expectations. But, could I give up my children? Well, when they were young I used to say to God, “Don’t ask me to be separated from my kids.” So, no, I would not have given up my kids. Now that they are grown, it is much easier to say, “Yes, God, I will obey.” Could I give up my husband? Well, I do not want to think about that.

Jesus desires ALL of our affection, interest, and loyalty. “If you want to be my follower you must love me more than your own father, mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters – yes, more than your own life” Luke 14:26. A tough choice, but the blessings that follow our acts of obedience are immeasurable and eternal.

What are your “beloveds”? Are you prepared to sacrifice them if God asked?

Lord, I pray that we hold our “beloveds” with an open hand. May we joyfully release that which hinders us from obediently following you. Thank you for your Spirit in us who enables us to do what is humanly difficult.

Orange Markers

2008-09-11T21:38:00.000-07:00

“. . . Now it was the harvest season, and the Jordan was overflowing its banks. But as soon as the feet of the priests who were carrying the Ark touched the water at the river’s edge, the water began piling up . . . Then all the people crossed over . . . on dry ground . . .” Joshua 3:6-17

“This is it – the Glacier Glades!” our hike leader exclaimed. What had started as a two-hour hike had turned into a three-hour search for the right trail to the mountain meadows. After much zigzagging through pine forest and scratching brambles, up hills and along ridges, our persistence was rewarded with a vast view across the meadows to the lake below and the mountains beyond. Whew! We made it! . . . Next, (looking left and right) which way back?!

Heading towards the lake and down the ridge was a good start, but we were still not sure how far north we needed to travel. We trod onward, silent prayers lingering under our breath.

“Look, an orange marker around a tree!”
“Ah, a good sign. If it’s a property marker it will lead us to civilization.”

Sure enough, a few more steps, eyes searching, we spotted another marker. “Hooray!” So it went. We proceeded in faith from marker to marker heading somewhat in the direction we wanted to go. Still traipsing through dry grass and bushes, dodging more pine trees, and passing the skeleton of a cow, (creepy), we came to a fence and followed it northward, finally reaching the farm where our car waited for us. Ah, safe and sound!

Just as we stepped forward in faith, so did another group, albeit much larger, a long time ago. The Israelites waited restlessly on the plain east of the Jordan River with only one more obstacle to overcome before arriving at their destination – the Promised Land. The recent snow melt and spring rains caused the river to overflow its banks as it roared through the lowlands. But, for God, a raging river is no obstacle. He directed the priests to carry the Ark of the Covenant into the river a few steps and stop. As they obeyed, God stopped the river allowing all million plus Israelites to cross the now dry riverbed and finally to enter the Promised Land.

Although our hike was inconsequential in the world’s scheme of things, having the faith in God to guide and lead me step by step helped reduce my worry and increased my enjoyment of the outing.

Lord, thank you that I can trust you as I step out in faith despite not seeing the path ahead!

In Whom do I Trust?

2008-09-11T14:49:00.000-07:00

“Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust Him, and He will help you.” Psalm 37:5

Three weeks before I needed the tradesman I arranged for him to come over, review the job and present a quote. Because I knew this man as an acquaintance and thought I knew his work ethic, I said to my husband later, “I trust him to do the job on time and properly. I don’t need to get other quotes. And besides, it's a challenge to get tradespeople to return calls and show up at the job site during this construction boom.” Two weeks later, I called the tradesman and made an appointment with him to do the job one week later. It was a “two-day” job, he said. I booked him in between the plumber and the floor installer. The day before the appointment, he called to say he would be delayed by one day. The next day he called to say there would be another delay. “Would the next day be alright?” “Yes. But can you work around the floor installer?” “Of course,” he assured me. On the third day, he arrived, but after a short while working around the noise and clutter of the floor installer, made another excuse and left. Yet another appointment was made four days later for him to finish the job.

At this point, my stress level was rising; my patience was disappearing. I was not pleased! The amount of trust and confidence I had apportioned to him was obviously misplaced. Not only was I disappointed that I had hired someone unable to keep to his commitments but also our renovation was getting behind schedule. Stress was building rapidly! I did not understand why God was allowing this trouble to occur now when He had greatly blessed our previous four months of renovations. “Why, oh why, God? Please solve this issue. I trusted this man and now I am disappointed.” Then it hit me like a pound of nails – I had trusted a person instead of God.

“Commit everything you do to the Lord. Trust Him, and He will help you.” Psalm 37:5

With one week left before the absolute deadline for this work, my prayers turned desperate. “God, PLEASE, bring a tradesman who will answer his phone, come when he says, and complete the job in time. PLEASE!!!! I am trusting YOU now! Forgive me for not trusting YOU.” I knew now that it would only be by divine intervention that this job would be done on time!

True to His integrity, God answered my prayer a few days later, but only after letting me alternate between sweating it out and waiting trustfully. I always smile at God’s timing! With three days to spare, another tradesman and his apprentice came and completed the job. “Whew!”

My lesson: instead of trusting only in people, trust in God to move through people to get the job done!

The Closet Walls

2008-09-04T11:28:00.000-07:00

“Enjoy the personal satisfaction of having done your work well.” Gal 6:4 NLT

Paint brush, paint, excellence – which word does not fit in this grouping? Let’s see. Last night, I painted a closet in our basement that holds the hot water tank and the stacking washer/dryer. “Couldn’t you be doing better things with your time?” you ask. Certainly! BUT, even though the previous paint job was fine, we had drilled a number of holes in the walls and the resulting polyfiller patches needed covering. “But it’s a basement closet,” you say. Yes, I admit, most people probably would not even notice, especially since the closet has doors. However, I look into the closet almost every day when I do the laundry and I like my surroundings to be beautiful! Not having a can of the original paint colour, I chose some paint that we had on hand which fit into the colour scheme of the room. With walls cleaned and prepped, the painting started.

Four hours later, two coats of paint had been applied and I was done. The next morning, I examined my effort in the daylight. Um, there were several areas that needed touchups and I could try to paint out more of the old colour behind the hot water tank. But wait, is it really necessary? I mean, really, who sees this? Could I be content to leave my project only ninety percent finished? Of course not! I strive for excellence. Every task I start, even those that no one else sees, I want to complete to my utmost best standard! The Apostle Paul says in Galatians 6:4-5, “Be sure to do what you should, for then you will enjoy the personal satisfaction of having done your work well, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else. For, we are each responsible for our own conduct.” Painting a closet is unimportant on the scale of solving the world’s problems, but God gave me this home to live in and take care of, so completing repairs properly is important. As I want to honour God in everything I do, I made sure the touchups were done well, therefore, giving no reason for anyone, or even God, to question my work. So, from my standpoint, paint brush, paint, and excellence definitely go together!

Comtemplation of Future Commitments

2008-08-27T15:28:00.000-07:00

I watched my daughter graduate from Seminary: adorned with black gown, hooded in purple, “Masters Degree” certificate in hand.
I felt my heart tug as I remembered my life-long desire to complete a Bachelor’s Degree.
Oh, how I long to achieve and be rewarded!

I read a brochure describing interesting photography courses: Seeing in Black and White, Creative Photographic Expression, Fusion of Vision and Technique.
I felt my heart tug as I remembered my life-long desire to impact viewers through my photography.
Oh, how I long to create and send a message!

I surfed the internet for nearby Bible Colleges: one and half years already completed, car at the ready, my mind like a sponge.
I felt my heart tug as I remembered my life-long desire to have a deeper relationship with God.
Oh, how I long to understand God!

In contemplating what to do with my time,
I asked the Lord if I should sign up for photography courses or Bible College courses.
“Send me a sign, Lord.”
The Lord sent me a sign. There was full attendance at that week’s ladies Bible study that I lead. What an encouragement!
“OK, Lord, you want me to focus on YOU.”

I asked the Lord which Bible College I should attend, thinking that’s a good way to focus on Him.
“Send me a sign, Lord.”
The Lord sent me a sign. The nearest college offered just the right mix of courses AND I even knew one of the instructors. How convenient it would be!
“OK, Lord, you want me to check out this school.”

I talked to that instructor, visited the college and read all the material.
I asked the Lord if he wanted me to commit all this time for the next several years to finish my degree.
“Send me a sign, Lord.”
The Lord sent me a sign. He reminded me of the passion He’d already given me: growing closer to Him through the revelation of His Word in both a personal context and a small group context. Sharing my experience of God with others is important!
“OK, Lord, you want me to know You better by seeing You work in others’ lives.”

I asked the Lord if He wanted me to take more training in order to be more effective as a leader.
“Send me a sign, Lord.”
The Lord sent me a sign. He reminded me of Precept Ministries and their quality, in-depth studies. Yes, like Bible College, but no exams or twenty page essays!
“OK, Lord, I will pursue this avenue. Thank you for loving me so much that You would use me to facilitate the spiritual growth of others!”

“PS. Lord, can I still take one of the photography courses?!”
Stay tuned!

PPS. I signed up for the Precept Ministries Leadership course, but it was later canceled.
I asked the Lord, “What now? Send me a sign.”
The Lord sent me a sign. A message – “You will be busy doing my will and you don’t need to know about it now!”

De-thatching

2008-08-23T21:08:00.000-07:00

“For I recognize my shameful deeds . . . But you desire honesty from the heart, so you can teach me to be wise in my inmost being. Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a right spirit within me.” Psalm 51:3,6,10 NLT

Thatch: a matted layer of dead stalks, moss and other material in a lawn
Result of thatch: separates the sun from the soil

Sin: an immoral act considered to be a transgression against divine law
Result of sin: separates God from the sinner

De-thatching is like de-sinning, I thought as I pushed the de-thatching machine over the lawn. From a distance, the green of the moss blended in with the green of the grass, but upon closer inspection, its infestation became obvious. Like a weed, it was slowly preventing the sun from reaching the soil thereby preventing the growth of the grass. Now was the time to act, before the lawn was completely lost. For the first round of de-thatching, I set the machine’s cutting blade to the highest height off the ground. (I knew from previous experience that if I pushed the machine to hard, the motor would burn out, so more than one round would be required for this mess of moss.) As I gleefully watched the moss flying out the sides and back of the machine, I thought of sins that I commit that may not be obvious from a distance but that are revealed upon closer inspection such as lying, cheating, stealing, and gossiping. As Christians, when we admit our sins and ask God to forgive us, He does, instantly, because Jesus already paid the price for our sins by dying on the cross. He, the only sacrifice suitable to God’s standards, gave up His life so that we may live forgiven. The first de-thatching required lots of raking, filling many bags with the moss. Perhaps when we sin, God, too, needs to clean up the messes we leave behind.

The next day, upon close examination of the lawn, I realized that the new grass seed I planned on spreading would not yet reach the soil as moss still remained. For the second round of de-thatching, I lowered the blade height thinking that would pull out the rest of the moss. Again, many bags of thatch were gathered. This layer required more effort to remove just as some sinful behavior requires a deeper level of self-examination before extraction. For me, this effort reveals some more subtle habits: arrogance (thinking that I can decide what is good for me), stubbornness (not admitting that I need to change) and greed (wanting the next bigger, better material thing). Oh Lord, thank you for revealing my sins and forgiving me.

By the third day, the lawn looked worse than when I had started, but de-thatching was only the first step. Next, I planned to spread the grass seed. Again, I got down on my knees to inspect the situation. Alas, what had looked like soil from a distance was, in fact, densely packed old thatch. I could pull it up with my fingers. Hmm, could I get the blade any lower? This last layer of thatch needed to come up so the grass seeds would reach the soil to have the proper foundation upon which to grow. Yes, the blade could go lower! After round three of de-thatching, the soil was visible! Now the lawn was ready for grass seed.

Reflecting on the effort it had taken to accomplish this, I wondered which sins still lay hidden by the thatch in my life. For this, I needed to pray sincerely asking God to reveal my errors. Risking vulnerability this way, I find, leads to a “God moment” when my mind is opened to His perspective and my soul is nourished by His love and wisdom.

Lord, I pray that my readers and I will be open to the de-thatching of our sins so that as we mature in our faith we will be a blessing to you and to others. Amen.

Am I Ready?

2008-08-20T11:23:00.000-07:00

“When the Son of Man returns . . . it will be ‘business as usual’ right up to the hour when the Son of Man returns. . . . Whoever clings to this life will lose it, and whoever loses this life will save it. That night two people will be asleep in one bed; one will be taken away and the other will be left.” Luke 17:26-34 NLT

Jesus warned His disciples to be ready for His return, to be looking for Him even while carrying out their daily routines. Reading these verses in Luke (see also Matt 24) caused me to pause. How often during the day do I focus on Him? Am I showing and sharing God’s love with others at my workplace, in my home, with my friends, and out in the community? Am I confessing my sins to God and praying for strength to not repeat them? Am I making time to read the Bible and pray so I will learn more about Him and receive guidance for my life? Am I participating in some sort of ministry work (whether volunteer or paid)? Am I worshipping God regularly both alone and with others? And finally, am I yielding to God’s ways as I go about my day? Hmmm, my answers include: “yes”, “sometimes”, and “not too often”.
Then I pray: “Lord, you are the one who created the universe, our world, and even me! Thank you for all the blessings you have given me! Thank you that you are guiding me to do your ‘business as usual’. Forgive me for my sins. Give me strength to turn away from them. Help me to focus on you every waking moment and even in my dreams! Help me to love others and share your saving message with them. Help me to be ready for your glorious return! Amen.”
So, as I heed Jesus’ warnings and reflect on my own readiness, you may also prayerfully consider: “Where do I stand with God? Am I ready for Jesus to return?”

A Renovator's Psalm

2008-08-14T07:48:00.000-07:00

The Lord is my General Contractor!
He builds my home.
He arranges all the trades.
He leads me to choice materials.
He recycles and re-uses.
He guides me through the construction process
Bringing honor to His name.

Even though I trudge
Through frustrating delays,
I will not grow weary
For He is close beside me.
His skill and smile
amaze and comfort me.

He prepares the hearts of those
who will live with me.
He welcomes me to my home
Supplying flowers and food.
My heart overflows with blessings!

Surely family and friends will join me
All the days of my life
In this home that the Lord built.

Amen.

What about the Nets?

2008-08-09T11:01:00.000-07:00

“Jesus called out to them, ‘Come, be my disciples and I will show you how to fish for people!’ And they left their nets at once and followed Him.” Matthew 4:19, 30

Imagine walking away from your job without a moment’s hesitation. The reason would have to be much more significant than the value of your work. Maybe you won the lottery, or maybe a much better opportunity arose. Well, the latter is what happened to Simon, Andrew, James, and John. These fishermen needed their boats and nets for their livelihood. Their families depended on them to bring in the daily catch. However, they recognized the man talking to them as their long awaited for Messiah. “He is here! Finally, He has come to bring us our salvation,” they must have been thinking. Suddenly, everything else paled by comparison and following Jesus became their top priority. In this case, fishing was not bad; it was just that becoming His disciple was better.

For Christians, while some ‘boats and nets’, such as work and homes, are useful to keep but at a lower priority, others will sink us if we do not avoid them. It was these detrimental ‘boats and nets’ that I pondered when I heard this Bible verse. What did I leave behind when I first believed? Well, it has been a long time since I was twelve! Back then, I had a general understanding that the Holy Spirit would help me to avoid sinning, and that, as necessary, my sins would be forgiven. In particular, I would try to leave behind some favourite behaviors such as lying to my parents and unkind actions towards others.

Reflecting upon my teenage and young adult years, I realize that I actually collected many new sins instead of discarding them. As time marched on, it became clear that I had left God behind, too. I had blindly focused on my ‘boats and nets’ yet not noticed that holes and rot had set in. In despair, I realized I was helpless to fix my own life.

Finally, I had sunk far enough! I remembered Jesus and the sacrifice He had made. I remembered that He created the whole universe. I remembered that He had the infinite power to take care of my challenges! So, I made my decision and turned to Him once more with whole-hearted commitment. I left behind my ‘nets’ full of pride, greed, self-importance, and self-reliance. I committed to love God with all my heart, soul, and mind, and do so in His strength! Yes, finally, just like those first century fisherman, Jesus would be my top priority, too!

Today, as I still put earthly attitudes, desires, and behaviors in the ‘nets’ behind me, I am thankful that the Holy Spirit enables me, through grace, to follow Jesus. How about you? What do you need to put behind you in order to walk closer with Jesus? Where is God on your priority list? Make sure your ‘boats and nets’ are set aside in favour of following Jesus.

“But the Lord still waits for you to come to him so he can show you his love and compassion. For the Lord is a faithful God. Blessed are those who wait for him to help them.” Isaiah 30:18 NLT

A Tow or A Tithe

2008-08-08T11:06:00.000-07:00

“I tell you, use your worldly resources to benefit others and make friends. In this way, your generosity stores up a reward for you in heaven. Unless you are faithful in small matters, you won’t be faithful in large ones. If you cheat even a little, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. And if you are untrustworthy about worldly wealth, who will trust you with the true riches of heaven?” Luke 16:9-11 NLT

Over the past few months God has blessed me with a number of cash lump sums from an inheritance. The financial benefit to my family has been outstanding! So, wanting to be faithful with these new financial resources and to show God my appreciation I made plans to donate ten percent to Christian charities following my regular practice of tithing on all income. But the tax receipts from all of the donations would be more than necessary to reduce my income taxes this year so I thought I would hold off on some contributions until next calendar year. While I thought this was fiscally prudent, today God reminded me that it was not spiritually prudent.
This morning as I was reading the Parable of the Shrewd Manager in Luke 16, God convicted me that I needed to take action and tithe NOW on this inheritance because He had plans for that ten percent that I would be giving to His work. I realised that it was wrong for me to enjoy the whole amount of the inheritance while delaying my donations. What would happen to His plans if I did not co-operate, I asked myself. God has given me this money at a particular time because He is expecting me to make those donations. Silently confessing my errors, I got to work: pulled out my cheque book and wrote one cheque, made plans to call another organisation for information, and made a list for the next cheques. OK, I was organized for now so I carried on with my regular morning routine.
Upon walking to the gym in our townhouse complex, I rounded the corner to see my daughter’s car hooked up to tow truck! She had been visiting us and had parked in the visitor parking spot within our complex. Apparently the strata manager had called the towing company. (Perhaps I had incorrectly remembered the rules which would allow her to park there for a few days.) Thank God the tow truck driver was allowed to receive a payment from me to release the car rather than me having to retrieve it from the towing company later. The cost of $50 was small compared to the minimum $120 to collect it later.
Immediately, I knew it was God reminding me of His financial policy: “God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others” (2 Cor 9:8). How stingy I had been! Quickly, today’s words from Luke came to mind. Oh dear, God trusts me with this inheritance and I am not reciprocating His generosity. Please forgive me, Lord! Thank you God for this gentle and not too expensive lesson! I am getting my cheque book out right now!

Guiltless Procrastination

2008-08-07T09:50:00.000-07:00

“Then Joshua asked them, ‘How long are you going to wait before taking possession of the remaining land the Lord . . . has given to you?’” 1 Joshua 18:3
The art of guiltless procrastination is a finely tuned life-skill developed only after years of practice! Its key component is the ability to create a “to-do” list containing equally important items thereby providing the excuse that the order in which they are accomplished is not an issue, so guilt is irrelevant. For example, instead of immediately starting the house cleaning, review your short list of paint choices for your living room walls. You would not have any guilt while doing this because enhancing your home environment through colour is just as important as cleaning it! Or, choosing to answer your emails is equally important as taking out the garbage since they both need emptying on a regular basis!
However, in this Scripture, Joshua was perhaps getting impatient or frustrated at the inaction of certain Israelites. Do you suppose that God was feeling the same way? Does God feel that way when I’m feeling guiltless about my procrastination, despite using the above technique? “But be sure everything is done properly and in order” 1 Cor 14:40. Although this instruction of Paul’s is referring to worship, it could be applied to all our activities so that we may bring glory to Him. Therefore, my “to-do” list needs to be written in God’s order of importance. God, please correct my attitude and give me joy in serving at whatever task you have for me.

Windy Beach

2008-08-06T23:24:00.000-07:00

“Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matt 11:28 NLT

Whoa! Laughing, we ran after our hats! Having just stepped out to the beach from a protected pathway, we were almost blown over by the near gale force wind. With great power and blowing parallel to the shoreline it picked up the sand and any lose piece of clothing! Turning our backs to the wind, Mike and I decided to walk with it making the first half of our stroll easy. Inevitably, though, it was time to turn back. So with hands clutching our hats we turned back to face the raging wind. As we leaned into it, we could see the sand starting to cling to our clothes. Struggling to make forward progress, I wondered, “How can I make this easier?” “Ah, I’ll walk behind Mike. His body will cut a path through the wind.” As my footsteps fell into rhythm behind his and my walk became easier, I remembered the words of Jesus: “Follow me.” He didn’t say, “Go before me and I’ll push you into unexplored territory.” No, it was, “Follow me.” That’s right! Jesus has the power to overcome the wind; to overcome my struggles. He goes before me to show the way. All I have to do is follow His example and let Him lead me. As I love more, serve more and forgive more, step-by-step my life looks like I’m more on Christ’s pathway. Are you struggling with some issues? Does it seem like you’re fighting a strong headwind? Let Jesus lead you. Release ownership of your issues – give them to Him. Consider His words and live: “Come to me, I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me-watch how I do it. . . . I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” (Matthew 11:28-30 The Message). This is my prayer for you!

From Allergies to Hope

2008-08-05T23:14:00.000-07:00

“Jesus Christ will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like His glorious body.”
Phil 3:21 NIV

PASS THE FACIAL TISSUE!! Does this sound familiar during Spring at your home? Do you dread the coming of Spring because of your allergies to pollen? Do you wonder, “How could God create such beautiful flowers with such irritating components?” Well, we read in Genesis 1:31 that the world God created was indeed “very good”. However, in Genesis 3 we learn that sin came into the world resulting in a curse upon both people and the world. Our human bodies are no longer perfect; we suffer many physical difficulties. But, God’s Word reminds us there is much hope for Christians for our bodies! Physical suffering will end when we join Jesus in heaven. The Apostle Paul says in Philippians 3:21, “Jesus Christ will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like His glorious body.” Revelation 21 reveals that our current earth will pass away and in the new earth there will be no more suffering for the “old order of things has passed away.” As I reach for another facial tissue and antihistamine, these encouraging words help me to return my focus to God remembering that my suffering is short-lived compared to the everlasting perfect health that is available to me, and anyone who calls Jesus Christ their Lord and Saviour. If you have not yet taken this step of faith, I urge you to make that commitment now!