Today was a productive day. I have to say, as much as I sometimes "complain" about the snow, I really do enjoy it. I just don't enjoy it after February 28th. There's something invigorating about getting out in it. I now have a dependable vehicle (Jeep) which I love. It gets me everwhere without a problem. And...everything works on it. Nice.
Who looks forward to Monday morning after a 2 week break that just went way too fast? I wanted to pull the comforter up around me and stay there but I managed to get up at 7:45am in order to set the tone for my 3 kids day back at homeschooling. All I could think of was, "Arghhhh. Let the games begin". Sometimes, (alot when you're 53), you get tired of "priming the pump" if you know what I mean.
This morning, my 14 year old had a 10am orthodontist appointment. After that, I drove over to the local Agway to purchase bird seed. A nice gentlemen was also in the bird seed section. I exclaimed, "Gosh..hard to keep these birds fed, isn't it?" He laughed. "Yeah. I'm thinking about claiming them on my tax return," he chuckled.
We struck up a conversation about our birds.
"Those blue-jays...," I said, "They are something! They are so beautiful, but they watch me from the edge of the woods and call to each other- 'meal time!'" "Oh, yes," he said, "they know!" I continued, "And the squirrels..they are new this year for me." He replied, "Well, you've been lucky then." I added, "They are a pain in the aa..nnneck!" His eyes kinda sparkled, "Oh..I know what you were going to say..and I agree!"
This morning, my 14 year old had a 10am orthodontist appointment. After that, I drove over to the local Agway to purchase bird seed. A nice gentlemen was also in the bird seed section. I exclaimed, "Gosh..hard to keep these birds fed, isn't it?" He laughed. "Yeah. I'm thinking about claiming them on my tax return," he chuckled.
We struck up a conversation about our birds.
"Those blue-jays...," I said, "They are something! They are so beautiful, but they watch me from the edge of the woods and call to each other- 'meal time!'" "Oh, yes," he said, "they know!" I continued, "And the squirrels..they are new this year for me." He replied, "Well, you've been lucky then." I added, "They are a pain in the aa..nnneck!" His eyes kinda sparkled, "Oh..I know what you were going to say..and I agree!"
Swearing is not my thing and I don't know why or how the "aa" part came out. Weird.
We talked a bit about cardinals and such. He continued his friendliness at the register. Strange. No one else in the store seemed happy. On the way out he wished me "Happy Bird Watching!"
I think this is the difference between happiness and joy.
Anyway, it made my morning. And maybe it made his. I cried before I went to sleep last night. I wonder if he did? But, no matter. A new day somehow makes us regroup.
Go spread a little sunshine into someone's life today. You may be hurting...but maybe they are hurting much more.
Christmas movie favorite second: Holiday Inn
The answer is, no.
I meant this: White Christmas.
I was just wondering who was awake out there.
Really.
Okay, I lied.
Not about White Christmas. About telling you that I did it to see who was awake. I mean, if I die in my sleep I do not want to go having told a lie.
At least not go having not acknowledged it. There is a difference. I think.
I think personalized stuff is great. I just ordered some return address labels. I don't like the random ones that come in the mail that have patriotic themes and such. It's just not me. I suppose the "attention to detail" aspect of my personality lends itself to such things.
My kids will tell you. Not sure how they feel about personalized items but one son got a real kid-sized tool box when he was about 10 years old, complete with tools and his name on the front. The girls have had their share of personalized gifts, too. One that comes to mind is a doll with her own case that held little clothes on little hangers. And of course there are the pencils and/or pens (all thanks to Lillian Vernon).
There have been the occasional personalized "license plates" for a bicycle, a mug with a name or initial, and oh yeah...my daughter-in-law received a nice stainless water bottle with her initial on it from me this Christmas. The kids' first big kid item were monogrammed canvas bags from Lands' End.
There have been the occasional personalized "license plates" for a bicycle, a mug with a name or initial, and oh yeah...my daughter-in-law received a nice stainless water bottle with her initial on it from me this Christmas. The kids' first big kid item were monogrammed canvas bags from Lands' End.
This year I purchased my daughter and her husband a very elegant (IMHO) Christmas ornament that I thought was very much "them". Engraved on the front is an "H".
I don't like those cheesy little Christmas ornaments found everywhere that say, "Alison" or "Robert".. you get my gist. I also do not enjoy jewelry with my name or initial on it. Although, once or twice my girls found a necklace in their stocking with corresponding initial. I also don't like monogrammed handkerchiefs, sweaters, or towels. An occasional clothed (or paper) napkin with a single letter is nice.
If I had a business, ooooh... what a fun adventure to make business cards. Actually, I did that once. I made maple syrup baskets complete with the pancake mix, spoon, etc. and it lasted a very, very short time. But I loved my business cards!
And so, in about a week I will be receiving my new return address labels. I can't wait. 'Cuz the stamp has to be straight on the envelope. And the return address label has to be just right. And always a BIC pen. They don't glob.
Several weeks ago, her sister came down with H1N1.
Struggling for life was known to her sister since she endured several weeks of a coma after being hit by a car at age 27. She came out of that struggle not unscathed. Some brain damage occured. Some time later, a heart condition caused her to have a valve replaced. Yet, she continued on being a wife, a mother, and a home health aide. She called a litte church in a small town her place of worship.
She fought through the H1N1 and became well. But while in the hospital, she contracted sepsis, a serious medical condition resulting from an infection. You see, the valve in her heart was the perfect environment for this infection to occur. It spread throughout her body and affected each organ.
Over Thanksgiving and the weeks following, her family watched helplessly as there was nothing else that could be done. A ravaging condition that is so unfair to such a sweet woman. Her sister told me she was naive. She never hurt anyone and thought no one would hurt her. And here she laid in a hospital bed with each organ shutting down.
She died on December 23, 2009. She was 64 years old.
Her sister told the story to me last night. It's the kind of pain that is all around us. Sickness, broken relationships, loneliness, death. God never leaves us or forsakes us. That's what He tells us. Yet, it's moments like this that cause us to ask, "where are you God?"
If we are looking...if we are listening...He is there. He does not stand helplessly in the distance watching us suffer. He is not glad that we hurt, nor is He uninvolved. We know He could stop it. Why doesn't He? Just for us? Or others, too? Because people have been suffering since the beginning of time. It is what it is. And all of our wondering and asking will not stop it. We have to find something to hold on to in the midst of our questions. Because He has told us, too, that there is a day when He will wipe away every tear. Think about that for a moment. The God of the Universe cared enough to write that in the last book of the Bible. For now...sorrow, sickness, pain, death. But one day.... one day...
Personally, I am amazed at the way God weaves Himself in our lives when we are least expecting it, especially through difficulty. My friend, who was telling me this story last night at the funeral home, was praying for a miracle so that her family would see how wonderful God is.
God had a different idea. Then again, God often does.
The story doesn't stop with what I have written. On December 23rd, my friend received a phone call from the family- "it doesn't look good." A web cam was immediately provided so she could be with her dying sister and family since she lives in another state. At this moment, her sister's blood pressure was extremely low. She was in a coma. She could not speak. She could not see. But....
My friend spoke with her sister through the web cam, trusting that she could hear. She began singing softly into her dying sister's ear- Jesus Loves Me This I Know. She could see her brothers and sisters in the room, along with other family members holding vigil those last few hours. Immediately, she saw her brother point to the monitor in tears. While my friend was singing, her sister's blood pressure went up to almost normal. She heard.
Twenty minutes later, she died.
God says His thoughts are not our thoughts. He says His ways are not our ways. Would her family have been brought closer to God with a miracle? Certainly, many people were drawn to God when Jesus did miracles. Yet, the Roman soldier at Jesus' crucifixion was brought close to God for the first time in his life when he said, "Surely, this was the Son of God."
Sometimes, in the midst of extreme darkness, a little sparkle of light is all that is needed to bring us closer to God. And who do you think provides that light? Don't you think the Creator ...... the One who designed this world in amazing intricate detail...... baffling scientists and physicists....can watch over you?
I've always been amazed at Jesus telling us to have faith like a little child. There have been horrible situations in my life that warranted more than child-like faith. I mean, children ask and daddys give. That's the way it's supposed to go, right? So...why didn't daddy fix it?
I have to trust that Daddy knows best. Even when I don't understand. And in that trusting comes a faith that rests in Him taking care of things. When a child falls and skins her knee, daddy cannot help that it happened. But daddy can clean it, bandage it, and give comfort. And if you didn't have a daddy or mommy that did that for you, your Heavenly Father promises ..... He will.
Life is not fun sometimes. But there are lots and lots of days that are fun. God tells us to dwell on that...not the bad. This isn't positive thinking as if I think positive long enough and hard enough all will be well. No. It's taking the bad with the good, but not allowing yourself to think of what went wrong. God tells us to think about ... what went right.
Look for the sparkle of light today.
I sat in the recliner with my legs crossed. He sat on the couch. He asked if I wanted something to drink. Coffee? No thanks. I'm good. TV? Want to watch TV? Okay. Let's see what's on. He flipped through the guide and stopped. Forrest Gump. How... interesting. He loves that movie. I saw it once. We watched it together.
Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what your gonna get.
When I walk down to the river, because there is not a clear path, I have to walk thru the swampy parts by stepping onto the clumps of sod and grass. Sometimes my foot slips off and it gets soaked. Heck. You don't cry over it. It is what it is and you keep going. Then there are the tougher things in life that are more difficult to maneuver around. Maybe you gotta lay low for a bit and regroup, but then you get up and get going. When you look at life like that, it helps keep emotions in check. Emotions is what brings people down into depression...addictions...all kinds of things trying to cope.
I have spent much of my trying to do everything right and having so much come out very, very wrong. No matter how hard I wish that jelly filled chocolate to be a wonderful pecan cluster, it is what it is and I cannot change that. It is what it is takes the pressure off of me that shouldn't be there anyway. I do what I can do and let go of the rest.
Life is like a box of chocolates.
Sort of like Jesus' statement: Take no thought for tomorrow.
Who doesn't like a box of chocolates filled with all of your favorite flavors?
So what do you do when you get a the kind of chocolate that is jelly filled? Or that lemon filled kind? Test it first by pushing on it and then leaving it for someone else? Spit it out? Do the next thing. You eat it.
My friend is hidden away in one of the most busiest cities in America. He does his part in life and does very well. His world came apart one night long ago. It wasn't his fault. He did nothing to deserve it. He just got a jelly filled chocolate. And instead of spitting it out, he ate it. And he worked hard at eating it. And now, he is a caring, sensitive man who knows first hand what it's like to not get what he wanted. He doesn't complain. He lives a simple life. He thinks that I am good for him. He has no idea. It's him who is good for me.
Everything we are about is: seeing the face of God.
"That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled concerning the Word of life-
the life was manifested and we have seen and hear witness and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Fahter and was manifeste to us-
that which we have seen and heard we declare to you that you also may have fellowship with us and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ
And these things we write to you that your joy may be full."
1 John 1
We reflect the face of God. Just as we reflect a particular essence in being part of a family, a church, a culture, a country....there is either an aroma of Christ upon us...or there isn't.
We reflect the face of God. Just as we reflect a particular essence in being part of a family, a church, a culture, a country....there is either an aroma of Christ upon us...or there isn't.
If we have heard about God from others we have not received directly from Him. We cannot give what we do not have. If we have not been led through darkness by God, nor led to green pastures by God, nor guided to still waters by God, we have not seen Him in greater fullness.
Let a book on conquering fear or a teaching on love suffice for some. Yet I am not content until I touch the hem of His garment. And as Peter said, don't be surprised by the fiery trials that come as though strange thing happened to you (as if God is not aware). Perhaps some would say that the testing of "the genuiness of our faith" is something we have to pass in order to be qualified. I think it means that we will find out what we are made of. Not so much that we go into the trial with a "4" and come out with a "9". I don't see our Christian life in increments. I believe that the genuiness of our faith is whether we come out of a trial seeing the face of God. Peter continues to say "Whom having not seen you love. Though now you do not see Him, yet believeing, you rejoice with inexpressible and full of glory..." (and by the way..it is acceptable to grieve in our trials as Peter states: "if need be you have been grieved (distressed) by various trials..."
This joy does not come from passing a test. It comes from seeing God.
This morning I was thinking of the portion of scripture that has seen me through more difficulties through life than anything else. Again and again I continue to use him as a reference point. Joseph.
Joseph's brothers were so jealous of him they wanted to kill him but thought it better to not do that and instead, sold him as a slave. They lied to their father, Jacob, and said he was killed by an animal. They had Joseph's bloody coat to prove it.
(Now I want to take a bunny trail here. I once heard a sermon regarding the arrogant attitude of Joseph since he dreamed of greatness and told the story to his brothers. The speaker took his liberties in suggesting perhaps Joseph was rubbing his position as "Dad's favorite" in his brother's faces. I mean after all, Dad made him a coat of many colors. I want to throw my hat in the ring by stating that I do not agree. I think what these brothers were "made of" is clear.)
After being sold as a slave, Joseph found himself serving in Pharoah's court in Egypt under Potipher, an officer. The Bible states "And the Lord was with Joseph and he was a successful man."
Potipher's wife tried to unsuccessfully seduce Joseph. He was wrongfully accused and thrown into prison. Not so successful now, huh? Yet, the Bible again says: "But the Lord was with Joseph." How? "He showed him mercy and He gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the guard."
Ahh. So the favor of God is not always visible. Oftentimes there are little, sparkling gems of God's presence intermingled with the darkness. Satan's ploy is to make you believe you are alone and forsaken by God.
You know the rest of the story. He had interpreted the butler's and baker's dreams and was promised that Pharoah would be told of his ability and perhaps he would be released from prison. Yet they had forgotten Joseph until Pharoah had a disturbing dream which needed interpretation. It was then Joseph was remembered. He interpreted Pharoah's dream and was released from prison and was made second in command to Pharoah.
When famine came, Joseph soon found his brothers...those who had hurt him...those who had ruined his life...those who had wanted him dead...those who had severely sinned against him...come before him in need of food. They did not recognize Joseph, but he knew them.
What do you do when someone has severely sinned against you? Do you take matters into your own hands? Do you decide their fate? Do you withhold from them?
Joseph could have shown no mercy. I mean, it was the Old Testament. Eye for an eye...tooth for a tooth...
But he didn't.
The story concludes with this statement from Joseph to his brothers-
"But now, do not therefore be grieved or angry with yourselves because you sold me here; for God sent me before you..."
Here is a man who gets it. Do we? Because the theme throughout the Bible is extending to others what we have received. Joseph knew God was with him when he was riding high in success. He knew God was with him in the prison. He did not allow his cirumstances to deter him from that fact. He did not allow the actions of others to deter him from that fact. Instead, he extended that which he had heard, which he had seen with his eyes, which we he had looked upon, and his hands handled concerning the Word of life-
Are we going to "win" others to Christ through everything but what we should be doing? Or will we, like the rich, young ruler, walk away sorrowful in our heart because we cannot give up what we hold near and dear to our hearts? In his case it was his riches. For you or me it may be our opinion, our right, our hurt.
The ultimate model of our response is surely, Jesus. He extended mercy to a world who while were dead in their trespasses...while we were yet sinners...He stepped between us and God and satisfied His wrath against sin. Instead of us being destroyed, Jesus took the destruction. He willingly thought nothing of Himself and because of love, endured the sorrow and pain on behalf of sins He did not commit.
Imagine. Imagine if we endured our own personal sorrow and pain on behalf of another's sin? How easier it is to teach a class...to preach a sermon...to offer a book. But to endure hardship and love in the midst of it fulfills what God asks of us: love. (1 Corinthians 13). One can only do this when they have seen the face of God.
The ultimate model of our response is surely, Jesus. He extended mercy to a world who while were dead in their trespasses...while we were yet sinners...He stepped between us and God and satisfied His wrath against sin. Instead of us being destroyed, Jesus took the destruction. He willingly thought nothing of Himself and because of love, endured the sorrow and pain on behalf of sins He did not commit.
Imagine. Imagine if we endured our own personal sorrow and pain on behalf of another's sin? How easier it is to teach a class...to preach a sermon...to offer a book. But to endure hardship and love in the midst of it fulfills what God asks of us: love. (1 Corinthians 13). One can only do this when they have seen the face of God.
On the horizon. the outline of majestic ships against blue sky tells the story of what is beyond. I can't see but they can see much farther. On the other side of the vast ocean lies other continents that stretch across the earth.
We are. We aren't.
We should. We don't.
We can. We can't.
He is.
Every once and awhile I get wind of a specific group of Christians who are intent on letting us all know that God is really ticked with America and the Church. I hate it.
I used to have a pretty one tracked mind as I've been groomed in a particular fashion for 30 years. That comes from being part of a family. It's normal. Then, I realized it's a big world out there with lots of interpretations and thinking and mindsets and perspectives of "this is the way, walk ye in it".
That being said, my faith has been "reduced" to what I think is the most powerful statement the Apostle Paul made: I know nothing but Jesus Christ and Him crucified.
That'll preach.
We see through a glass darkly. That's what the Bible says. We don't understand all things pertaining to God. We may have gifts and callings and hear the Shepherd's voice...but we better be careful that we understand the order of things here. So let me throw my hat in the ring, too.
I think that God is fully aware that we are a spoiled lot here in America. He knew that we would be a prosperous country and prosperous people possessing lots of bells and whistles. I'm tired and even frustrated with the group that demands repentance from anybody and everybody. Now let me bring some balance here. I do believe that it is necessary for nations and its people to repent. I am not saying that we should continue in sin and trample underfoot the grace of God. Yet, this proverbial bandwagon carries only the banner of sin and repentance and seems to be lacking the banner of compassion and mercy of God. Last I knew, God draws with chords of love and His banner over us is love. That means He continually extends blessings upon the just and the unjust. I just don't think people need to be told over a mega phone what sinners they are. The commandments are on our hearts. We know.
(and I've seen some of those voices of repent! they may add that God is merciful and loving but their eyes squint and burn with intensity through the core of our being!)
What we do need is to extend the acknowledgment of God's love and what that encompasses. People simply need to know that God knows all about them. That will get right to the heart of anyone. They may know of God but not have a day to day, close communication with Him. Perhaps their experience is knowing a distant God that hears repetitive prayers or lit candles or doing good deeds or whatever. We need to help the people in our lives to taste and see what we have handled ourselves.
I think God is very much a "one at a time" God. In other words, the people in your life are there for a reason. And if we all extended words and actions of a loving God who accepts us just as you are, I wonder how much more would turn to God. Then- let God take care of their repentance.
I'm just glad that God is not ruffled by the events of the day. He knew from the beginning of time what 2009 would look like. He knew the state of affairs in the United States. He knew that there would be major blunders and failures which have created an atmosphere of some horrid conditions. Any yet, He understands the frailty of man and as an earthly father pities his children, God the Father pities our weakness in a world yet bound with the effects of sin.
As we hold up the banner of righteousness, let's not forget to draw with chords of love.
I'm just glad that God is not ruffled by the events of the day. He knew from the beginning of time what 2009 would look like. He knew the state of affairs in the United States. He knew that there would be major blunders and failures which have created an atmosphere of some horrid conditions. Any yet, He understands the frailty of man and as an earthly father pities his children, God the Father pities our weakness in a world yet bound with the effects of sin.
As we hold up the banner of righteousness, let's not forget to draw with chords of love.
All of us are struggling with something right this very moment. Some more than others. Worries, concerns, sadness, loneliness, disappointment.
Perhaps we are hurting in ways that others do not see. If that is you, please read this poem sent to me. Interesting...no matter how much we've learned and matured...all the books we've read...classes we've taken...it is still necessary to be reminded over and over again. Why? Because for some reason, God wired us that way. He wants us to depend on Him. Remember? It's relationship. And while we have filled our minds with the things of God, He is intent on filling our hearts with the things of God. It's okay. Keep reading and attending classes and learning. Nothing wrong with that. But...when you feel the pressure of the Potter's Hands close in a bit around you, remember...He is not punishing you. He is transforming you into His vessel of honor through the pounding adversities of life that threaten to crush you. And these same Hands shaping you...are the same Hands that are protecting you. Be the clay that trusts the Potter's Hands. Let go of all concerns! He has it all figured out. He's God.
The Christmas holiday intensifies any difficulties we may be facing. Don't lose out on the magic of the season. Tomorrow, next week, next year will be different. It won't always be the way it is now. And whether you are surrounded by many friends and family, or only one or two friends and family.......all is well. He's leading. Just follow.
I had no Christmas spirit
When I breathed a weary sigh,
And looked across the table
Where the bills were piled too high.
The laundry wasn't finished
And the car I had to fix,
My stocks were down another point
The Dolphins lost by six.
And so with only minutes
Till my son got home from school,
I gave up on the drudgery
And grabbed a wooden stool.
The burdens that I carried
Were about all I could take,
And so I flipped the TV on
To catch a little break.
I came upon a desert scene
In shades of tan and rust,
No snowflakes hung upon the wind
Just clouds of swirling dust.
And where the reindeer should have stood
When I breathed a weary sigh,
And looked across the table
Where the bills were piled too high.
The laundry wasn't finished
And the car I had to fix,
My stocks were down another point
The Dolphins lost by six.
And so with only minutes
Till my son got home from school,
I gave up on the drudgery
And grabbed a wooden stool.
The burdens that I carried
Were about all I could take,
And so I flipped the TV on
To catch a little break.
I came upon a desert scene
In shades of tan and rust,
No snowflakes hung upon the wind
Just clouds of swirling dust.
And where the reindeer should have stood
Before a laden sleigh,
Eight Hummers ran a column
Right behind an M1A.
A group of boys walked past the tank
Not one was past his teens,
Their eyes were hard as polished flint
Their faces drawn and lean.
They walked the street in armor
With their rifles shouldered tight,
Their dearest wish for Christmas
Just to have a silent night.
Other soldiers gathered
Hunkered down against the wind,
To share a scrap of mail and dreams
Of going home again.
There wasn't much at all
To put their lonely hearts at ease,
They had no Christmas turkey
Just a pack of MREs.
They didn't have a garland
Or a stocking I could see,
They didn't need an ornament
They lacked a Christmas Tree.
They didn't have a present
Even though it was tradition,
The only boxes I could see
Were labeled "ammunition."
I felt a little tug and found
My son now by my side,
He asked me what it was I feared
And why it was I cried.
I swept him up into my arms
And held him oh so near,
And kissed him on the forehead
As I whispered in his ear.
There's nothing wrong my little son
For safe we sleep tonight,
Our heroes stand on foreign land
To give us all that right.
To worry on the things in life
That mean nothing at all,
Instead of wondering If we will be the next to fall.
He looked at me as children do
And said its always right,
To thank the ones who help us
And perhaps that we should write.
And so we pushed aside the bills
And sat to draft a note,
To thank the many far from home
And this is what we wrote.
God Bless You all and keep you safe
And speed your way back home,
Remember that we love you so,
And that you're not alone.
The gift you give you share with all
A present every day,
You give the gift of liberty
And that we can't repay.
Author: Unknown
Right behind an M1A.
A group of boys walked past the tank
Not one was past his teens,
Their eyes were hard as polished flint
Their faces drawn and lean.
They walked the street in armor
With their rifles shouldered tight,
Their dearest wish for Christmas
Just to have a silent night.
Other soldiers gathered
Hunkered down against the wind,
To share a scrap of mail and dreams
Of going home again.
There wasn't much at all
To put their lonely hearts at ease,
They had no Christmas turkey
Just a pack of MREs.
They didn't have a garland
Or a stocking I could see,
They didn't need an ornament
They lacked a Christmas Tree.
They didn't have a present
Even though it was tradition,
The only boxes I could see
Were labeled "ammunition."
I felt a little tug and found
My son now by my side,
He asked me what it was I feared
And why it was I cried.
I swept him up into my arms
And held him oh so near,
And kissed him on the forehead
As I whispered in his ear.
There's nothing wrong my little son
For safe we sleep tonight,
Our heroes stand on foreign land
To give us all that right.
To worry on the things in life
That mean nothing at all,
Instead of wondering If we will be the next to fall.
He looked at me as children do
And said its always right,
To thank the ones who help us
And perhaps that we should write.
And so we pushed aside the bills
And sat to draft a note,
To thank the many far from home
And this is what we wrote.
God Bless You all and keep you safe
And speed your way back home,
Remember that we love you so,
And that you're not alone.
The gift you give you share with all
A present every day,
You give the gift of liberty
And that we can't repay.
Author: Unknown
Christmas song that immediately warms my heart: Christmas Time is Here from Charlie Brown Christmas - Vince Guaraldi Trio
Christmas song I love: Celebrate Me Home - Kenny Loggins
Christmas song I love: Celebrate Me Home - Kenny Loggins
Christmas song that brings immediate tears and cannot listen to ever again: All is Well - Michael W. Smith
Christmas song I despise: I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Clause
Christmas hymn: All of them
Christmas hymn: All of them
Christmas favorite from the past who I never tire of: Nat King Cole
Christmas movie favorite: It's a Wonderful Life
Christmas movie favorite second: Holiday Inn
Christmas movie favorite second: Holiday Inn
Finally, it's happening. I was wondering how long it would take. Overpopulation and the China model is looking good to the Progressives. Funny. As Glenn Beck pointed out recently, where's all the outcry of "we don't want government in our uteruses or in our bedrooms?? Oh wait. It's okay if the government is telling us what to do with our bodies as long as we agree with it.
"For those who balk at the notion that governments should control family sizes, just wait until the growing human population turns twice as much pasture land into desert as is now the case or when the Amazon is gone, the elephants disappear for good and wars erupt over water, scarce resources and spatial needs."
So. Who's creating mass hysteria now?
I was thinking this morning of the Parable of the Unmerciful Servant found in Matthew 18.
Prior to Jesus telling this story, Peter had asked Him how many times he should forgive. I think Jesus' answer expressed a lifestyle of forgiveness that is based on mercy. When we have to recite in our mind a hundred times "I forgive" then we've missed the point. When we come to realize that we all begin at the same starting point, it evens the playing field. That means, throughout our lives, we are aware of our capability to sin.
The king wanted to settle accounts with his servants and one man owed him 10,000 talents. A talent was a weight not a coin. And depending on the purity of the precious metal, the value could be calculated. If it was a Greek talent, it would equal over 4 million pounds of silver or 7 million dollars in US currency. Bottom line, Jesus makes it clear that the sum was vast and beyond human ability to pay. He could not repay the debt. The king ordered his wife, children, and all that he had to be sold.
The servant fell to his knees and asked for mercy. The king took pity on him, canceled the debt, and let him go free.
The servant fell to his knees and asked for mercy. The king took pity on him, canceled the debt, and let him go free.
The servant found one of his fellow servants who owed him 100 denarii. A week's wage equaled about 6 denarii, about $5,000 for us today. He didn't talk to him about his debt but grabbed hold of him and choked him, demanding to be paid. The servant fell to his knees and begged for mercy. He refused and had the man thrown in jail until he could repay him.
In my early days, I was brought face to face with the need to forgive. It's all here. Then I began finding the need to be merciful. In order for that to happen, I had to see myself on the same level as the most vile sinner who has ever lived. If we begin to think otherwise, we are no different than the Pharisees.
"The Pharisee stood up and prayed about himself: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get."
One of the seven abominations, the list that God hates, is a proud look. And we all know how Jesus responded to the Pharisees.
We may not voice our thoughts, but they're there, aren't they? Silent pointing of the finger. Unless we are gripped in our hearts when one sins, we are not merciful.
Do we need to be merciful? Isn't that a ... "gift"?
We need to be merciful. Perhaps you have not come to terms with the wickedness of your deceitful heart. We will struggle with sin until the day we die. It is not something that we should be a slave to now that we know the Lord, yet, it resides in every human heart. We fool ourselves. We silently categorize sin don't we? While certain sins carry a greater weight of consequence, we all have the leaven in our hearts for any sin given the right circumstances. When we realize this, there is no pride here. It is not a position of beating ourselves up. Quite the opposite. It is an admission of the order of things. We are clothed in righteousness and our debt is paid in full, yet we acknowledge that as long as we are in this world, we can and will sin.
Mercy should flavor every believer's life. It certainly flavors God's. Forgiveness then becomes not a duty, but a lifestyle. It exudes from the believer who has come face to face with himself. When we live like this, aren't we representing God? Isn't it His mercy that saved us? Will we then go forward as the above parable? Demanding from those around us? Or will we offer to those around us the mercy which we received?
Yet he was merciful; he forgave their iniquities and did not destroy them.
Judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
Whose Kingdom are we building?
Whose Kingdom are we building?
Since 1981, I honestly have not pursued much for myself in the line of hair or skin products. Everything changed. Not only did my focus turn upon my children over the last 28 years, but there's where the money was directed most of the time, too.
Then enters age 50 and TJ Maxx. You know how it is. You see a picture of yourself and think, "Oh, my! It can't be!"
For some it's droopiness around the mouth. For others it's fine lines around the eyes. Others have mysterious age spots. Somehow, we just don't think about it happening. At least I didn't. Now I know why those television shows in my 20's talked so much about moisturizing the neck and face, along with not pulling tautly on said face.
That leads me to TJ Maxx. Previously, I headed for the children's department to find quality items and great deals for little boys and a young girl. Now, I linger at the women's clearance section on nice smelling hand soaps and.....what is this? Hmm. Night creams, firming creams, facial stuff. So one day I purchased a jar of night cream. It couldn't had been more than $5.99 as I would not have purchased something unknown for more than this.
Now there are some things in life that has to be just right. A cup of coffee. Jeans. Tablecloths. Dinnerware. Chocolate. And... facial moisturizer/lotion/cream. I don't want it too thick. I don't want it too thin. I don't want to drop the curling iron because it slipped out of my hand. I found it.
This stuff is amazingly nice on my skin. It's perfect. And I noticed that I was going to this jar more often than my Olay stuff. Last week I noticed I was skimming the bottom for a bit more. Tragedy of tragedies. It's almost gone. And TJ Maxx does not keep stuff in stock. You get what you get most weeks.
A-ha. The internet. After putting on my "magnifying" glasses (only 1.0x; not bad for 53) to see the fine print on the jar as to what I had been using for 3-4 months, I typed in the product name. To my delight I found a place to purchase more.
$40.00!?
I searched around and will continue to search but let it be known that I am not opposed to purchasing it at this price!
Husband: "I need $40.00 so I can get brakes for the car."
Wife: "Ummm... it will have to wait till next week. K?"
heh heh
Did I mention I had a full body massage yesterday? Yup. My favorite hair stylist added this feature to her salon.
This is livin'!
Doesn't this fall under "she makes tapestry for herself"?
Esther?
How about He gives you the desires of your heart?
Doesn't this fall under "she makes tapestry for herself"?
Esther?
How about He gives you the desires of your heart?
I thought my days of being so "involved" every moment here at home were over, but I guess I was mistaken.
Take this morning for instance. I dutifully went out with my birdseed to fill the feeders. Of course, the Blue Jays swooped off into the nearby woods and I yelled at them, "I see you! You are watching me and when I leave you will be back!" (I'm not losing it. Really.) Indeed, these characters sat in a tree at the edge watching me. I started to go to the door and sure enough, they came swooping back. But I had changed my mind and turned around...only to watch them do a 360 in mid-air and return to the tree in the woods. Meanwhile, the pleasant little black capped chick-a-dees sat patiently in the bush only a foot away from me.
Before I could get back in the house, there they were at the feeders. I watched them fighting. One would try to eat and another would chase it away. This went on for about a minute before I finally opened the window and said, "Stop fighting!!"
And then there was yesterday when I put out some Christmas decorations. Now that my kitchen is newly painted and the curtains going onto the porch are opened, I set some nice, old-fashioined looking figurines on the sills of children on sleds, throwing a snowball, and such. As I did this, I consciously was aware that I did not have to worry about a small child playing with them. I could freely put them there without the thought of them getting broken. Last night, didn't the dog walk in with one in his mouth!! I quickly grabbed it and scolded him. Darn it! I am not moving them. I didn't move these things but trained my kids not to touch and I will do the same with the dog!!
That doesn't include the fact that 80% of the day the dog follows me around and then stands in front of me looking at me. This is not good for a person who enjoys dogs like 40% of the time; 20% when they are sleeping, 15% when they are seen from the window while playing with the kids, and 5% when I'm in the mood to play with him or pet him. I know Cocker Spaniels are extremely sociable but c'mon. Somehow he has bonded with me. He instinctively knows I'm a mom and he thinks I'm his mom. Geesh.
Jurisdiction?
Jurisdiction?
I looked down the row of chairs and my heart ached. She looked tired. She looked weary. She looked like I did only 7 years ago.
There is no doubt, (and may I add often unnoticed), the weight of responsibility upon mothers...in particular...mothers who homeschool their children. She does not look for recognition or applause, but often, she is taken for granted. Anyone who can be pregnant, have a couple of toddlers, all the way up to a few teenagers is thought to be able to handle anything. While her strength is truly that of the Proverbs 31 woman, (although she never compares herself to her), she is the weaker vessel, in need of care. We often take for granted what we have. It's human nature to come to expect and even demand. This mother knows that God is truly her strength, as it is almost impossible to look at the daily tasks, requests, demands... and do them cheerfully. She has taken God at face value and I would dare say, more than anyone, has come to trust Him unequivocally. She has to. Because there are many moments of feeling alone in a mother's life as the weight of responsibility can be crushing at times.
The buck stops with mothers educating their children. They have taken on a task equal to mothers who pioneered the unchartered territory of the New England coast or Wild West. While others may have blazed tangible trails, there are still "unknowns" lurking in the shadows of "what will be" for mothers today. We live in a demanding, competitive world which requires an education. That is frightening to mothers who are raising sons in particular. The task is understandably a serious one. Some mothers have a wonderful network of support. Some do not. Some have lots of outside opportunities, bringing reprieve to weariness . Some do not. Some have husbands who are very involved. Some do not. Whatever your lot, God knows. And it is well with your soul when you believe this.
Choosing a path of trusting God is not easy. You can recite it a hundred times in your mind each day and it will not produce trust until you come face to face with unknowns. The Son of God could not have completed His course had He not fully chosen to trust His Father. He endured. We will endure.
We can tell people God is faithful. Or we can tell people God is faithful. You cannot give what you have not possessed. When the disciple, Peter, told us to count it all joy during the fiery trials, he knew first hand that it was worth counting it all joy since he experienced his humaness falling away and the freedom that comes with it.
I am telling you today, God is faithful. That doesn't mean it goes the way you had thought or planned or prayed or hoped for. In those times it's easy to say He is faithful. It's during those times when it didn't go the way you had thought, planned, prayed, or hoped for. You have a choice. Will I trust? Or not trust?
Our futures are full of unknowns. Our children's futures are full of unknowns. When we have diligently taken on the task of being mothers and if we've taken on the task to homeschool them in order to own their days and lead them in God's ways, we do our part and God does His. We are not fully responsible for them. You are not alone.
Because the buck stops...with God.
The sun had not yet risen as the sacrificial fire glistened upon their shadowed faces. The golden creation sat before them as they presented their offerings. After all, they had sacrificed their gold earrings. They thought it was the right way.
The moonlight glistened upon the drawn sword as its edge penetrated the soldier's ear. Drops of blood fell to the ground and mingled with the agony of the night. A surprised fisherman's rescue attempt failed. He thought it was the right way.
The sound of a battle cry to advance echoed in their memories as the banner of new revelation led the way. The old ways which had been proven were discarded as tradition. Enlightenment had brought with it purpose and destiny. They thought it was the right way.
The setting sun warmed the branches of ancient trees and twisted vines. The calmness was interrupted as hushed voices echoed in the distance. A small group of sleepy men could not watch and pray. The hours passed while He prayed alone. The earth received the drops of bloody sweat falling to the damp, rich soil...as it received the pounding sound of soldier's footsteps. There were no thoughts of reaching heavenward with a tower or golden calf. There were no thoughts of drawn swords to defend nor strategies for advancement.
His ways are not our ways. His thoughts are not our thoughts.
The annuls of Church History record the humanness of good intentions. There is nothing new under the sun. Every generation may advance with knowledge and not in understanding.
In our earnest desire to bring Him glory...may we remind ourselves of our tendency for misplaced zeal.
In memory of my Christopher.
Born November 30, 1981.
I wasn't planning on it. Really. But it had become somewhat of a tradition.
It's balmy here in Upstate New York. The fog was thick as I drove at 3:30 am to the mall. Faded red tail lights could be seen in the distance of other silly smart buyers, getting good deals for Christmas gift-giving. There wasn't anything I wanted per se, but the Bon-Ton flyer was too good to pass up. I had listed a few items that were worth getting to bring smiles to the ones I love.
Thoughts of other years doing this Black Friday thing came to mind as I rounded the corner to the mall. The one time that made me chuckle was the year my brother, sister-in-law, sister, myself, and my husband, (with I'm certain a baby in tow), left on a frigid morning to get the deals at Walmart. This was probably the first year Walmart had opened here and we stood in line with the hundreds of others to get good deals while my husband dutifully parked the car almost a mile away (well, somebody's got to do it!) Then I thought of other years when my sister and I would go with our coffee in hand laughing-all-the way. Now, online shopping is oh so much easier!
Funny how the night before, all kinds of people in your home want to go, too. Until. Until you open their door and say, "Are you going?" "Yes," was the reply.
Ten minutes later-
"I'm leaving NOW!" I said in a loud whisper as I stuck my foot in the doorway so her dog wouldn't get out (heck. he was up. he woulda went). But my traitor daughter fell back to sleep. She stood me up and I went alone.
I followed a car's tail lights and headed into the back of the mall. It was 3:54 am. Outside was a small line. "Nice morning," I said to the couple in front of me (everyone is psyched and super friendly while waiting in line but beware! they change into werewolves once inside).
The doors were opened and it was funny to watch. In the past, my sister and I were looking for major good deals in the electronic department that she would purchase for my kids. So, I had learned to quite effectively maneuver around everyone (I had learned the strategy of not taking a cart) and retreiving those items quickly and smoothly, along with my list of $5 games or toys. She would get a cart and I would dump all the stuff I got into it. Somehow, it felt so evil. Like she had the get-away car or something.
This year it was different. I had no real agenda. I only had 3 items I really wanted and knew I would find them quite easily. When the doors opened, the people in front of me were trying to compose themselves. I could tell by the rapid baby steps they were taking. They really wanted to run with all they had, push, shove, grab, and act like animals.
Now, the Bon-Ton does not have carts. This is a disservice to them because you cannot possibly put double pack Ralph Lauren pillows, comforters for 20 bucks (silly people. same thing is sold at Walmart for 18 bucks but because they purchased it in the Bon-Ton it makes it better), and any Cuisinart appliance in one of their oversized bags offered for your shopping convenience. It's a department store wanna-be in my book, but nice just the same.
I walked around slowly watching people. It was fun. "Sharon, look at these.." "Naah, you can get those at Penney's cheaper."
See, I don't mock these people, ('cuz I'm one of them), I really respect most of them. Because they are wives, moms, aunts, daughters...who are the ones who make Christmas happen. We are behind the scenes getting up at 4am to bring smiles on grateful faces on Christmas morning...and we know our prices! We have every store (which isn't many) in the recesses of our memory. Nothing much gets by us.
I did manage to wander down to Radio Shack and saw a sign for 4 gb Scan Disk cards for 10 bucks which I really need. The gate was still down. I approached the 4 people standing there and asked what time they opened. "Five-thirty," a woman replied. That was 40 minutes away and I decided it wasn't worth it. "But we've been here since 3:30," she replied.
Oh, my.
By 6 am I was home in bed. But not before I had decided to get some half and half at Walmart. What was I thinking? They were parking next door at Home Depot in order to get into Walmart. Instead, I opted for the convenience story where a sleepy cashier took my money for said item and a newspaper, and Dunkin' Donuts got my business for a cup of regular coffee and 1 1/2 dozen donuts to surprise the fam.
Even after my excursion and return to bed...I was still up before everyone.
Black Friday 2009.
I just have one question. What is a Cindy Crawford bath towel? And why?
I did manage to wander down to Radio Shack and saw a sign for 4 gb Scan Disk cards for 10 bucks which I really need. The gate was still down. I approached the 4 people standing there and asked what time they opened. "Five-thirty," a woman replied. That was 40 minutes away and I decided it wasn't worth it. "But we've been here since 3:30," she replied.
Oh, my.
By 6 am I was home in bed. But not before I had decided to get some half and half at Walmart. What was I thinking? They were parking next door at Home Depot in order to get into Walmart. Instead, I opted for the convenience story where a sleepy cashier took my money for said item and a newspaper, and Dunkin' Donuts got my business for a cup of regular coffee and 1 1/2 dozen donuts to surprise the fam.
Even after my excursion and return to bed...I was still up before everyone.
Black Friday 2009.
I just have one question. What is a Cindy Crawford bath towel? And why?
Nearly 400 years ago, a fearless group of men, women, and children braved the cold Atlantic to begin a new life. The temptuous two month journey was the seed that went into the ground and died and bore much fruit. Little did these endearing Pilgrims know what would be wrought as they chose to obey God rather than man. America's destiny was built long before the Framers gathered together.
The first winter on the coast of the chilling waters of New England took many lives that first winter, as famine and disease gripped its icy fingers around the faithful. And yet, thanks was given in the midst of their loss for the goodness of their Creator to bring them thus far.
The virtue of these sojourners is beyond fully comprehending. Few, if any of us, would embark upon so great a task. Many of us cringe when we are called upon to do something that requires our time, energy, or possessions. God forbid our boundaries get crossed. We may get stressed.
As I type, my inbox is filling up with Black Friday specials. Amazon...Circuit City...Overstock...and more. One by one they announce their presence. Our enemy isn't unchartered territory and the magnitude of loss of other times. It's our culture. And while we can enjoy what has been given to us, it carries with it the potential to expect more and more. Thankfulness can become elusive as the prosperity of our culture tries to grip us with love of the world. The Israelites desired to return to Egypt rather than walk in unknown paths ordained by God. They were willing to put up with bondage for pots of meat and bread to the full...not this tasteless manna...
...iPods and iPhones, HD TV and Reality Shows, JCrew and JJill...
What is your loss? Your sadness? Your disappointment?
Thank you, Lord, for bringing us thus far.
The first winter on the coast of the chilling waters of New England took many lives that first winter, as famine and disease gripped its icy fingers around the faithful. And yet, thanks was given in the midst of their loss for the goodness of their Creator to bring them thus far.
The virtue of these sojourners is beyond fully comprehending. Few, if any of us, would embark upon so great a task. Many of us cringe when we are called upon to do something that requires our time, energy, or possessions. God forbid our boundaries get crossed. We may get stressed.
As I type, my inbox is filling up with Black Friday specials. Amazon...Circuit City...Overstock...and more. One by one they announce their presence. Our enemy isn't unchartered territory and the magnitude of loss of other times. It's our culture. And while we can enjoy what has been given to us, it carries with it the potential to expect more and more. Thankfulness can become elusive as the prosperity of our culture tries to grip us with love of the world. The Israelites desired to return to Egypt rather than walk in unknown paths ordained by God. They were willing to put up with bondage for pots of meat and bread to the full...not this tasteless manna...
...iPods and iPhones, HD TV and Reality Shows, JCrew and JJill...
What is your loss? Your sadness? Your disappointment?
Thank you, Lord, for bringing us thus far.
Well-spoken, well-intended, well-wishes slip through my fingers from well-meaning people. Managing a smile, their words elusively dissipate into the air. I am alone in this grief while surrounded by people. Alone on my bed the words of truth swirl around my head. My heart makes diligent search...until...I don't care to try.
I thought. I prayed. I believed. I lost.
Believe, heart. Believe.
"Do you love Me?"
"Yes, Lord, I love You."
"Then feed My sheep."
"But how, Lord, do I feed Your sheep?"
"Bear all things. Believe all things. Hope all things. Endure all things."
"But how, Lord, shall I love when it hurts?"
"Trust Me."
The coolness of still waters ... the comfort of His staff ... the richness of His presence ... are not found ... are truly not found ... unless I am alone in the Valley of the Shadow of Death. And it is here when I find He is enough.
Do I want to know Him? Like this?
"Do you love Me?"
"Yes, Lord, I love You."
"Then feed My sheep."
"But how, Lord, do I feed Your sheep?"
"Bear all things. Believe all things. Hope all things. Endure all things."
"But how, Lord, shall I love when it hurts?"
"Trust Me."
The coolness of still waters ... the comfort of His staff ... the richness of His presence ... are not found ... are truly not found ... unless I am alone in the Valley of the Shadow of Death. And it is here when I find He is enough.
Do I want to know Him? Like this?
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