Proverbs: 17:6 NAS
Grandchildren are the crown of old men. And the glory of sons is their fathers.
We were visiting my husband's aunt Eleanor in Missouri after her husbands death. I could sit for hours and listen to her Irish brogue as she told stories of their life together. It was late when she said. "I've got to tell you the story on how George became known as 'Boompa'."
When their daughter found out she was pregnant she announced to her mother. "I want Dad's grandchildren to call him Boompa. Eleanor said she fumbeled for words. Who ever heard of a grandfather being called Boompa? That's silly she told her daughter.
Nevertheless when their first grandchild was old enough he began calling George Boompa. As the years rolled on each grandchild after that called him Boompa too.
When the grandson graduated from high school he walked out on stage, received his diploma, then turned around with his diploma held over his head, and yelled. "For you Boompa."
There were giggles throughout the auditorium but when Eleanor looked at George's face he was smiling from ear to ear. She said. "I guess that wasn't such a bad name for him after all."
Our Heavenly Father loves us just as much or more than we love our children and grandchildren. He loves it when we call Him Abba, Jehovah, El Shaddai, El Elyon, Elohim, El Olam, Johovah-nissi, Jehoval-jireh, Jehovah-rapha, Jehovah-raah, Yahweh, or Adonai. These names are endearing to His ears.
Most Gracious Heavenly Father I thank You for all You do in my life, the blessings You bestow upon me and my loved ones. I bow down before You. Thank you El Elyon. Amen.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Busybodies
II Thessalonians 3:11-12 NAS
For we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined life, doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies. Now such persons we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ to work in quiet fashion and eat their own bread.
This may seem an odd scripture for today but after talking with a friend I thought this maybe a good time to address the life of a busybody. My friend proceeded to tell me of her mother-in-law and her daughter. Both have been gossiping about each other, they don't want to be in the same house together, and the mother-in-law went so far as to say please don't let my daughter be at my funeral. How sad that their lives have grown so much apart that they cannot and will not be referred to in the same sentence.
Hearing this brought back memories of my own life. My children were small at the time and I heard a friend repeat gossip she'd heard about me. I asked where she had heard such a thing and after much hesitation she told me who it was. I was heartbroken when she told me it was my best friend of fifteen years. We had gone to high school together, been witnesses for each other when we married, and were there for each other at the birth of our first child.
I prayed for God to guard my tongue before I confronted her. Her reply was all the things she had been going through she said I was doing. There was no reasoning with her. I finally said. "You should probably check your own back yard before you go accusing others."
Where and how does gossip start? A misspoken word taken in the wrong context or perhaps something in your own life is not going right and it's easier to blame others. Whatever the reason we are to seek God's guidance before we speak. We are to lift each other up.
Dear Heavenly Father I pray for Your guidance to guard my tongue when I speak to others and to lift them in prayer. Amen.
For we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined life, doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies. Now such persons we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ to work in quiet fashion and eat their own bread.
This may seem an odd scripture for today but after talking with a friend I thought this maybe a good time to address the life of a busybody. My friend proceeded to tell me of her mother-in-law and her daughter. Both have been gossiping about each other, they don't want to be in the same house together, and the mother-in-law went so far as to say please don't let my daughter be at my funeral. How sad that their lives have grown so much apart that they cannot and will not be referred to in the same sentence.
Hearing this brought back memories of my own life. My children were small at the time and I heard a friend repeat gossip she'd heard about me. I asked where she had heard such a thing and after much hesitation she told me who it was. I was heartbroken when she told me it was my best friend of fifteen years. We had gone to high school together, been witnesses for each other when we married, and were there for each other at the birth of our first child.
I prayed for God to guard my tongue before I confronted her. Her reply was all the things she had been going through she said I was doing. There was no reasoning with her. I finally said. "You should probably check your own back yard before you go accusing others."
Where and how does gossip start? A misspoken word taken in the wrong context or perhaps something in your own life is not going right and it's easier to blame others. Whatever the reason we are to seek God's guidance before we speak. We are to lift each other up.
Dear Heavenly Father I pray for Your guidance to guard my tongue when I speak to others and to lift them in prayer. Amen.
Monday, June 28, 2010
PAIN
Lamentations 1:12 NAS
"Is" it nothing to all you who pass this way? Look and see if there is any pain like my pain which was severely dealt out to me. Which the Lord inflicted on the day of His fierce anger.
Television ads display Tylenol, aspirin, and all the other pain remedies almost every fifteen minutes on some channel you are watching. For arthritis sufferers, migranes, and just about any other ailment there is the old saying. "Take this pill and call me in the morning if the pain hasn't gone away."
I remember sitting next to my mother and watching the tears roll down her cheeks. When I asked her if she was alright, her reply was. "Oh honey the pain is so bad it hurts to move." She had osteoarthritis. Her once long, beautiful, fingers were now crippled to the point she could no longer wear her rings. Her toes were bent so much she couldn't wear shoes, but padded along in her houseslippers everywhere.
Since reaching my sixty fifth birthday I too have suffered from arthritis along with my brother, who has had it since he turned fifty. Each morning when I arise I have to do stretching exercises to get my body going. Like so many other sufferers I too take pain medications. I hobble now when I walk unlike the spry gait I once had in my twenties.
When I start to complain about my pain I've had to stop myself. My Jesus suffered much more pain on the cross than I could have ever endured. He did it for me and for you. He took my sin on His shoulders so I could spend eternity with Him. By God's Grace I am saved through the blood of Jesus Christ.
Merciful Father I thank You for Your son Jesus who died for my sins. Forgive me for complaining for my small aches and pains, they are nothing of His pain He suffered for me. Amen.
"Is" it nothing to all you who pass this way? Look and see if there is any pain like my pain which was severely dealt out to me. Which the Lord inflicted on the day of His fierce anger.
Television ads display Tylenol, aspirin, and all the other pain remedies almost every fifteen minutes on some channel you are watching. For arthritis sufferers, migranes, and just about any other ailment there is the old saying. "Take this pill and call me in the morning if the pain hasn't gone away."
I remember sitting next to my mother and watching the tears roll down her cheeks. When I asked her if she was alright, her reply was. "Oh honey the pain is so bad it hurts to move." She had osteoarthritis. Her once long, beautiful, fingers were now crippled to the point she could no longer wear her rings. Her toes were bent so much she couldn't wear shoes, but padded along in her houseslippers everywhere.
Since reaching my sixty fifth birthday I too have suffered from arthritis along with my brother, who has had it since he turned fifty. Each morning when I arise I have to do stretching exercises to get my body going. Like so many other sufferers I too take pain medications. I hobble now when I walk unlike the spry gait I once had in my twenties.
When I start to complain about my pain I've had to stop myself. My Jesus suffered much more pain on the cross than I could have ever endured. He did it for me and for you. He took my sin on His shoulders so I could spend eternity with Him. By God's Grace I am saved through the blood of Jesus Christ.
Merciful Father I thank You for Your son Jesus who died for my sins. Forgive me for complaining for my small aches and pains, they are nothing of His pain He suffered for me. Amen.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Acquire Wisdom
Proverbs 4:5 NAS
"Acquire wisom!" Acquire understanding! Do not forget, nor turn away from the words of my mouth.
This morning while my daughter and I were at the pool for our workout we were reflecting of years ago when she would go visit her siblings during the summer. Then the subject turned to one of her sisters, the more rebelious one, and why didn't I stop her when she moved out at thirteen. "Mom did you kick her out or did she move out? I was too young to remember."
How do you tell your daughter at some point you have to let go. I began. "If I'd tried to stop her she would have run away. I might not have ever seen her again. If I let her go I could still keep an eye on her. Watch her as she went about. I didn't agree with her life style but in my heart I knew she would come home. It took six months for her to realize she'd made a mistake, and I know it had to be hard for her to admit she was wrong and move back home."
Like so many other parents we want to shield our children of the hurts and misfortunes that we endured. To give them the best life we can, a life of roses, without the thorns. Sometimes that's hard even when you have to let go so they can make their own mistakes like you did.
I am thankful that my Lord let me go through the calamities I did to acquire the wisdom He wanted me to have. There were times I felt all alone with no one to turn to. No one to talk to and comfort me. When I was at my lowest point God was with me, He held me in His hands, and shielded me from harm. We can only pray that He is with our children as they go out into the world to find their own wisdom.
Gracious Heavenly Father watch over our children, shield and protect them as they go out and find their way in life. Amen.
"Acquire wisom!" Acquire understanding! Do not forget, nor turn away from the words of my mouth.
This morning while my daughter and I were at the pool for our workout we were reflecting of years ago when she would go visit her siblings during the summer. Then the subject turned to one of her sisters, the more rebelious one, and why didn't I stop her when she moved out at thirteen. "Mom did you kick her out or did she move out? I was too young to remember."
How do you tell your daughter at some point you have to let go. I began. "If I'd tried to stop her she would have run away. I might not have ever seen her again. If I let her go I could still keep an eye on her. Watch her as she went about. I didn't agree with her life style but in my heart I knew she would come home. It took six months for her to realize she'd made a mistake, and I know it had to be hard for her to admit she was wrong and move back home."
Like so many other parents we want to shield our children of the hurts and misfortunes that we endured. To give them the best life we can, a life of roses, without the thorns. Sometimes that's hard even when you have to let go so they can make their own mistakes like you did.
I am thankful that my Lord let me go through the calamities I did to acquire the wisdom He wanted me to have. There were times I felt all alone with no one to turn to. No one to talk to and comfort me. When I was at my lowest point God was with me, He held me in His hands, and shielded me from harm. We can only pray that He is with our children as they go out into the world to find their own wisdom.
Gracious Heavenly Father watch over our children, shield and protect them as they go out and find their way in life. Amen.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Christians
Acts 26;28 NAS
And Agrippa replied to Paul, "In a short time you will persuade me to become a Christian."
This morning my daughter and I went to the pool for our daily excerise and to talk about our daily life. A few minutes without the constant crying, yelling,fighting, and tugging on Mommy from her little ones.
She asked me if I was going to go to the pool with them this afternoon. I told her I had quite a few things I had to get done but if I got them done in time I'd meet them there.
Last night she tried to explain to her seven year old son, who swims like a fish, that he would have to take the swimming test again for the big pool. That he had to take it every year and then he would get his bracelet saying he could swim without his Mommy. He replied. "Mom why do I always have to take the swimming test? I can swim. They're not fair. They're Christians."
She tried to surpress a laugh and asked him. "Why do you say that?"
"Mom they're Christians. You know like next door."
"Son, they're Mormans."
This comment comes from a young man who has seen his neighbors do things that in his young mind are not what you do if you are a Christian. He felt the lifeguards were against him at the big pool therefore, they must be Christians.
How many times have we seen professed Christians do unchristian things? It doesn't make any difference if they are Morman, Methodist, Baptist, Luthern, Catholic, etc. I've heard my daughter say if that's the way they act then I'm glad I don't go to church. We, as Christians, have an obligation to live a Christian life, not only to our Lord, but for others. This means that we must live every day for Christ. Then maybe more people will come to know Christ and become Christians.
Our Heavenly Father I pray for each person that they live their life as a reflection of You. Guide us oh Lord. Amen.
And Agrippa replied to Paul, "In a short time you will persuade me to become a Christian."
This morning my daughter and I went to the pool for our daily excerise and to talk about our daily life. A few minutes without the constant crying, yelling,fighting, and tugging on Mommy from her little ones.
She asked me if I was going to go to the pool with them this afternoon. I told her I had quite a few things I had to get done but if I got them done in time I'd meet them there.
Last night she tried to explain to her seven year old son, who swims like a fish, that he would have to take the swimming test again for the big pool. That he had to take it every year and then he would get his bracelet saying he could swim without his Mommy. He replied. "Mom why do I always have to take the swimming test? I can swim. They're not fair. They're Christians."
She tried to surpress a laugh and asked him. "Why do you say that?"
"Mom they're Christians. You know like next door."
"Son, they're Mormans."
This comment comes from a young man who has seen his neighbors do things that in his young mind are not what you do if you are a Christian. He felt the lifeguards were against him at the big pool therefore, they must be Christians.
How many times have we seen professed Christians do unchristian things? It doesn't make any difference if they are Morman, Methodist, Baptist, Luthern, Catholic, etc. I've heard my daughter say if that's the way they act then I'm glad I don't go to church. We, as Christians, have an obligation to live a Christian life, not only to our Lord, but for others. This means that we must live every day for Christ. Then maybe more people will come to know Christ and become Christians.
Our Heavenly Father I pray for each person that they live their life as a reflection of You. Guide us oh Lord. Amen.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Children
Matthew: 19:14 NAS
But Jesus said, "Let the children alone, and do not hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."
Pick up the newspaper, a magazine, or turn on the television and you see shootings, stabings, beatings of children. Yes children. It's one thing for adults to get upset with other adults and take their anger out by lashing out physicialy. When an adult lashes out at a child that is another thing.
A helpless child looks up to adults for guidance. From early childbirth adults teach children how to talk, walk, run, and play. When they see adults fight, curse, and lash out at others mentally, they in turn, do the same. This is what they are taught. They see it in movies, television, and some games.
My heart has been heavy lately for my own grandchildren. They are witness to an ugly divorce their parents are going through. The name calling, following each other around to see what the other is doing, all while the children are in tow.
I pray this activity is not going to be repeated in their lives but stastics will tell you children usually repeat what they've see or been brought up around. Today I ask you to take time to pray for each child out there, whether you know them or not, that God watch over them and deliver them from this enviorment.
Gracious Lord I pray for every child on earth that there is someone close to them that will tell them, or be an example to them, that Your love is forever. Let them know that they are a child of Yours. Amen.
But Jesus said, "Let the children alone, and do not hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."
Pick up the newspaper, a magazine, or turn on the television and you see shootings, stabings, beatings of children. Yes children. It's one thing for adults to get upset with other adults and take their anger out by lashing out physicialy. When an adult lashes out at a child that is another thing.
A helpless child looks up to adults for guidance. From early childbirth adults teach children how to talk, walk, run, and play. When they see adults fight, curse, and lash out at others mentally, they in turn, do the same. This is what they are taught. They see it in movies, television, and some games.
My heart has been heavy lately for my own grandchildren. They are witness to an ugly divorce their parents are going through. The name calling, following each other around to see what the other is doing, all while the children are in tow.
I pray this activity is not going to be repeated in their lives but stastics will tell you children usually repeat what they've see or been brought up around. Today I ask you to take time to pray for each child out there, whether you know them or not, that God watch over them and deliver them from this enviorment.
Gracious Lord I pray for every child on earth that there is someone close to them that will tell them, or be an example to them, that Your love is forever. Let them know that they are a child of Yours. Amen.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Approval
Romans 14:18 NAS
For he who in this way serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men.
When my girls were in high school they were always dressing to look good for the boys and to show off to the other girls the latest new clothes and fashion. Although they wouldn't admit it but they were looking for approval from their peers.
I've seen neighbors go out and buy the newest lawnmowers, edgers, and bar-b-ques to show off. Whether they bought the gadgets because they really needed them or perhaps theirs had worn out, and they really had to replace the item. If we were to really think about it, they too, were looking for approval from others.
Approval comes in many different forms. There's getting accepted into the most prestigious school, making the football team, cheerleading squad, swim team, and a distinguished college. Children do things to please their parents to get their approval. Spouses likes to pamper to get your approval.
In our world today with people looking the other way, a strong man who has faith in the Lord, will live his life for God. This man is acceptable in God's eyes and an example to other men.
Dear Lord I pray for all the Godly men, that they are an example for others to follow. Amen.
For he who in this way serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men.
When my girls were in high school they were always dressing to look good for the boys and to show off to the other girls the latest new clothes and fashion. Although they wouldn't admit it but they were looking for approval from their peers.
I've seen neighbors go out and buy the newest lawnmowers, edgers, and bar-b-ques to show off. Whether they bought the gadgets because they really needed them or perhaps theirs had worn out, and they really had to replace the item. If we were to really think about it, they too, were looking for approval from others.
Approval comes in many different forms. There's getting accepted into the most prestigious school, making the football team, cheerleading squad, swim team, and a distinguished college. Children do things to please their parents to get their approval. Spouses likes to pamper to get your approval.
In our world today with people looking the other way, a strong man who has faith in the Lord, will live his life for God. This man is acceptable in God's eyes and an example to other men.
Dear Lord I pray for all the Godly men, that they are an example for others to follow. Amen.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Abba Father
Galatians 4:6 And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, "Abba!" "Father!"
Yesterday was Father's Day and like everyone else we honored our fathers, husbands, brothers, and sons. They were catered to from breakfast in bed, dinner at his favorite restaurant, to big bar-b-ques in the back yard.
Dad sat in his recliner with his ever present remote control and flipped through the channels all day long. Of course that was between his cat naps and short trips of grandchildren running through the house with their gifts, kisses and hugs before bounding back out the door to celebrate with their daddys.
Some people went to the lake, to their cabin in the hills, and some honored their dads at their church services.
But how many people stopped to honor Our Heavenly Father who has provided us our very life? He knew us before we were born, watched us as we grew, graduated from school and college. He was there when we married and when our children were born. He held us in His hands when our parents passed away, sickness, and maybe even saw us through a messy divorce.
I for one thank my Heavenly Father every day for each breath I take and ask His guidance in all I do. Without Him I am and can do nothing.
Dear Heavenly Father continue to hold everyone of us in Your hands every day and guide us in all we do. Amen.
Yesterday was Father's Day and like everyone else we honored our fathers, husbands, brothers, and sons. They were catered to from breakfast in bed, dinner at his favorite restaurant, to big bar-b-ques in the back yard.
Dad sat in his recliner with his ever present remote control and flipped through the channels all day long. Of course that was between his cat naps and short trips of grandchildren running through the house with their gifts, kisses and hugs before bounding back out the door to celebrate with their daddys.
Some people went to the lake, to their cabin in the hills, and some honored their dads at their church services.
But how many people stopped to honor Our Heavenly Father who has provided us our very life? He knew us before we were born, watched us as we grew, graduated from school and college. He was there when we married and when our children were born. He held us in His hands when our parents passed away, sickness, and maybe even saw us through a messy divorce.
I for one thank my Heavenly Father every day for each breath I take and ask His guidance in all I do. Without Him I am and can do nothing.
Dear Heavenly Father continue to hold everyone of us in Your hands every day and guide us in all we do. Amen.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Arrogant and Boastful
Rom: 1:28-30 NAS
And just as they did not see fit to acknowledge God any longer, God gave them over to a depraved mind, to do those things which are not proper, being filled with all unrighteousness, wickedness, greed, evil: full fo envey, murder, strife, deceit, malice; they are gossips, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, arrogrant, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents
My husband and I were watching the sports channel last night and he made the comment about one of the players. "He's really good player but he's so arrogant."
I thought about what he said and had to agree. This man, like so many other players, was good at what he did but he was arrogant. Then I thought about quite a few more of our sports players, either in baseball, basketball, golf, and even football. They were good players but our society has put them on a pedestal because they are good at what they do. They've become boastful.
We've let them get away with things they shouldn't have with a slap on the wrist, a fine, or community time. They've become arrogrant.
They've trusted in their wealth and boast of their riches thinking this is their entitlement. There is only one entitlement that is due me and that is my faith in the Lord and I know that by grace I am saved. I will live by His commandments and know that I will spend eternity in Heaven prasing my Savior forever.
Gracious Lord I pray for the boastful and arrogant persons that do not know Your love and grace. Lord I pray someone touches their lives and shares Your love with them. Amen.
And just as they did not see fit to acknowledge God any longer, God gave them over to a depraved mind, to do those things which are not proper, being filled with all unrighteousness, wickedness, greed, evil: full fo envey, murder, strife, deceit, malice; they are gossips, slanderers, haters of God, insolent, arrogrant, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents
My husband and I were watching the sports channel last night and he made the comment about one of the players. "He's really good player but he's so arrogant."
I thought about what he said and had to agree. This man, like so many other players, was good at what he did but he was arrogant. Then I thought about quite a few more of our sports players, either in baseball, basketball, golf, and even football. They were good players but our society has put them on a pedestal because they are good at what they do. They've become boastful.
We've let them get away with things they shouldn't have with a slap on the wrist, a fine, or community time. They've become arrogrant.
They've trusted in their wealth and boast of their riches thinking this is their entitlement. There is only one entitlement that is due me and that is my faith in the Lord and I know that by grace I am saved. I will live by His commandments and know that I will spend eternity in Heaven prasing my Savior forever.
Gracious Lord I pray for the boastful and arrogant persons that do not know Your love and grace. Lord I pray someone touches their lives and shares Your love with them. Amen.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Beauty Around Us
Ps 27:4 NAS
One thing I have asked from the Lord, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the Lord, And to meditate in His temple.
I was thrilled to have a covered patio with our new house. Immediately I hung plants from the overhang. One morning I saw a bird fly away from the hanging fern. I got a stool and peered down inside and saw a birds nest with one small egg. After that I was careful how I watered it. The next time I checked it the egg was gone and so was the bird.
This morning I saw a bird fly to the same plant and sit there. I watched as she made her way to the side of the planter and poked her head into the fern. As I watched I could see two little heads being feed by their mother. The mother flew off shortly after filling their little mouths. One of God's many wonders and beauty.
Growing up I was blessed to be able to travel from coast to coast. From the magnificiant Grand Tetons to the clear sparkling beaches of the Gulf Coast. From Bar Harbor to the cliffs along the great Pacific Northwest. God's beauty is everwhere.
This morning in my short trip to the market I couldn't help but to notice crepe myrtles everywhere. Splended,crisp,white, passionate pink, radiant lilac, and earthy deep red blooms dotted the yards. Gods handprint in our daily lives.
We get up in the morning and rush to leave the house to get to work on time. We are behind closed doors for at least eight hours every day then we rush home after work. By then it's time to get the children feed, off to baseball, dancing, etc., and then home again to get ready for bed. Did we stop long enough to drink in the beauty God has set before us each day?
Dear Lord guide me to stop each day long enough to take in the beauty You've given me to enjoy. Amen.
One thing I have asked from the Lord, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the Lord, And to meditate in His temple.
I was thrilled to have a covered patio with our new house. Immediately I hung plants from the overhang. One morning I saw a bird fly away from the hanging fern. I got a stool and peered down inside and saw a birds nest with one small egg. After that I was careful how I watered it. The next time I checked it the egg was gone and so was the bird.
This morning I saw a bird fly to the same plant and sit there. I watched as she made her way to the side of the planter and poked her head into the fern. As I watched I could see two little heads being feed by their mother. The mother flew off shortly after filling their little mouths. One of God's many wonders and beauty.
Growing up I was blessed to be able to travel from coast to coast. From the magnificiant Grand Tetons to the clear sparkling beaches of the Gulf Coast. From Bar Harbor to the cliffs along the great Pacific Northwest. God's beauty is everwhere.
This morning in my short trip to the market I couldn't help but to notice crepe myrtles everywhere. Splended,crisp,white, passionate pink, radiant lilac, and earthy deep red blooms dotted the yards. Gods handprint in our daily lives.
We get up in the morning and rush to leave the house to get to work on time. We are behind closed doors for at least eight hours every day then we rush home after work. By then it's time to get the children feed, off to baseball, dancing, etc., and then home again to get ready for bed. Did we stop long enough to drink in the beauty God has set before us each day?
Dear Lord guide me to stop each day long enough to take in the beauty You've given me to enjoy. Amen.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Time For Others
Proverbs 27:1
Do not boast about tomorrow. For you do not know what a day may bring.
Today started pretty early, or maybe I wanted it to start early and I over slept a wee bit. It put me behind a little. I showered and ran out of the house to keep my schedule on time. Stop by the church, go pick up the new arm rests for my car, and that's where I got bogged down.
What should have been maybe a twenty minute appointment turned out to be over an hour. Several times I thought about leaving but I really wanted to keep the conversation going. I was on a mission to find out interesting facts about a small town so I kept asking questions.
I finally left and went on to my next stop and then the next. It was looking good, I was on the downward side. I will be able to get home and get some of my writing done. Then when I pulled up to the window to place my order I thought I'd better call my daughter and tell her I was dropping the brownies off for my grandson. She asked where I was and then asked me to get her some tea too.
It was looking good, I only had to drop off the tea and brownies, and I was homeward bound. I ran into the house with the goodies and the kids tackled me. Hugs and kisses all around. With my keys in hand I said, "I really have to get home. I have lots to get done."
"Just one more thing Mom. I want to show you something."
What was going to be maybe a ten minutes stop turned out to be a half hour. I bid my goodbyes and hopped in the car breathing a sigh. I have frozen things in the back I do hope they're not thawed out.
As I drove home it hit me. I shouldn't have taken so long each place I stopped to chat, then again, I would never get that time back. I gave and received hugs and kisses from my grandchildren. Will I have tomorrow to do it again? If I don't have tomorrow will my grandchildren think of today as a special day with Mema?
Did I make a difference today with everyone I met and talked to?
Dear Lord I pray I made a difference in someone's life today. I pray that I took the time to say good morning to someone that was feeling lonely or blue, that I put a smile on their face. I pray these things in Your Name. Amen.
Do not boast about tomorrow. For you do not know what a day may bring.
Today started pretty early, or maybe I wanted it to start early and I over slept a wee bit. It put me behind a little. I showered and ran out of the house to keep my schedule on time. Stop by the church, go pick up the new arm rests for my car, and that's where I got bogged down.
What should have been maybe a twenty minute appointment turned out to be over an hour. Several times I thought about leaving but I really wanted to keep the conversation going. I was on a mission to find out interesting facts about a small town so I kept asking questions.
I finally left and went on to my next stop and then the next. It was looking good, I was on the downward side. I will be able to get home and get some of my writing done. Then when I pulled up to the window to place my order I thought I'd better call my daughter and tell her I was dropping the brownies off for my grandson. She asked where I was and then asked me to get her some tea too.
It was looking good, I only had to drop off the tea and brownies, and I was homeward bound. I ran into the house with the goodies and the kids tackled me. Hugs and kisses all around. With my keys in hand I said, "I really have to get home. I have lots to get done."
"Just one more thing Mom. I want to show you something."
What was going to be maybe a ten minutes stop turned out to be a half hour. I bid my goodbyes and hopped in the car breathing a sigh. I have frozen things in the back I do hope they're not thawed out.
As I drove home it hit me. I shouldn't have taken so long each place I stopped to chat, then again, I would never get that time back. I gave and received hugs and kisses from my grandchildren. Will I have tomorrow to do it again? If I don't have tomorrow will my grandchildren think of today as a special day with Mema?
Did I make a difference today with everyone I met and talked to?
Dear Lord I pray I made a difference in someone's life today. I pray that I took the time to say good morning to someone that was feeling lonely or blue, that I put a smile on their face. I pray these things in Your Name. Amen.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Proverbs 3:3 NAS
Do not let kindness and truth leave you; Bind them around your neck. Write them on the tablet of your heart.
As a writer I have the ability to write what I think, feel, and what I want you to hear. As the saying goes, "The pen is mighter than the sword."
Words said in haste can harm, tear down a person's self esteem, separate good friends, and sometimes ruin marriages. Words written on paper, facebook, the internet, or in newspapers are there forever. They can be retracted but the harm has already been done. What has been set in the mind is hard to dislodge.
As a Christian writer I have the responsibility to write the truth as God would want me to write it. The truth that comes from the heart, not to hurt, but to show God's love. As in 2 Timothy 2:15 to avoid worldy and empty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness.
Gracious Heavenly Father lead and guide me when I sit down to write. May my words be pleasing to you. Amen.
Do not let kindness and truth leave you; Bind them around your neck. Write them on the tablet of your heart.
As a writer I have the ability to write what I think, feel, and what I want you to hear. As the saying goes, "The pen is mighter than the sword."
Words said in haste can harm, tear down a person's self esteem, separate good friends, and sometimes ruin marriages. Words written on paper, facebook, the internet, or in newspapers are there forever. They can be retracted but the harm has already been done. What has been set in the mind is hard to dislodge.
As a Christian writer I have the responsibility to write the truth as God would want me to write it. The truth that comes from the heart, not to hurt, but to show God's love. As in 2 Timothy 2:15 to avoid worldy and empty chatter, for it will lead to further ungodliness.
Gracious Heavenly Father lead and guide me when I sit down to write. May my words be pleasing to you. Amen.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Mirror Image
Eph 5:1 NAS
Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.
This morning as I was brushing my hair my mind wandered, as it usually does, to what I needed to get done today. Top of the list was to look for dead ancestors, one of my passions. I guess you could say that is my passion. Wanting to know more about who they were, what they did, where did they come from, and how much or how many of their traits did I get from them.
I can be dusting or vacuuming the house and stop short. I realize my mother used to do this the same way. When I look in the mirror I see her reflection looking back at me. But where did I get the wanderlust, if you will, feeling where I want to see what's over the next hill? How did my ancestors treat other people? Were they a mirror image of Christ?
I've traced my great great grandfather and his family through the censes from to New York to Oregon. Then when I check church records, when they are available, I can't find him. Another question pops up. Did they go to church, did they visit the traveling preacher once a month, or did they even own a Bible? If they owned a Bible who read it? Were they a mirror image of Christ?
These are only a few of my questions but my biggest question is still to myself. Am I a mirror image of Christ?
Lord I pray for Your guidance each day that I may be living for You so others may see You through me. Amen.
Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.
This morning as I was brushing my hair my mind wandered, as it usually does, to what I needed to get done today. Top of the list was to look for dead ancestors, one of my passions. I guess you could say that is my passion. Wanting to know more about who they were, what they did, where did they come from, and how much or how many of their traits did I get from them.
I can be dusting or vacuuming the house and stop short. I realize my mother used to do this the same way. When I look in the mirror I see her reflection looking back at me. But where did I get the wanderlust, if you will, feeling where I want to see what's over the next hill? How did my ancestors treat other people? Were they a mirror image of Christ?
I've traced my great great grandfather and his family through the censes from to New York to Oregon. Then when I check church records, when they are available, I can't find him. Another question pops up. Did they go to church, did they visit the traveling preacher once a month, or did they even own a Bible? If they owned a Bible who read it? Were they a mirror image of Christ?
These are only a few of my questions but my biggest question is still to myself. Am I a mirror image of Christ?
Lord I pray for Your guidance each day that I may be living for You so others may see You through me. Amen.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Greed
Luke 12:15 NAS
And He said to them, "Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions."
You've heard the old phrase "You can't take it with you when you die." How often do we see things in the store, television, or in a book and we think I've got to have that? I'm as guilty as the next person and sometimes I forget I bought it and I go buy it again. I think one or two of us can say we've done that too.
I struggle thinking I would like to have a new handbag but when I look in my closet I have probably ten or more handbags already, and I can't bear to part with any one of them. So why do I need to buy another one? Is it just to spend the money?
Greed is like lust. You can lust after money, clothing, purses, cars, and even food. You want more and more. There is never enough. But then we aren't satisfied. It's like a child playing with other children then pulling his toys all to himself and not wanting to share with anyone. Hording eveything for himself. The other children walk away from him and he is left with his toys. Nothing else. No friends. Nothing.
This is not what God intended for us. We are to treat others like we ourselves would like to be treated. If I have two I need to give to someone that does not have any. When my time comes to leave this earth I cannot take anything with me. I was born with nothing and I will leave with nothing. I will take my good name, how I treated others, and nothing else. Did others see Christ through me?
Gracious Heavenly Father I pray others will see You through how I live my life. I pray that You give me courage to ask myself if I really need that other item I think I just have to have. I give You all the praise and glory. Amen.
And He said to them, "Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions."
You've heard the old phrase "You can't take it with you when you die." How often do we see things in the store, television, or in a book and we think I've got to have that? I'm as guilty as the next person and sometimes I forget I bought it and I go buy it again. I think one or two of us can say we've done that too.
I struggle thinking I would like to have a new handbag but when I look in my closet I have probably ten or more handbags already, and I can't bear to part with any one of them. So why do I need to buy another one? Is it just to spend the money?
Greed is like lust. You can lust after money, clothing, purses, cars, and even food. You want more and more. There is never enough. But then we aren't satisfied. It's like a child playing with other children then pulling his toys all to himself and not wanting to share with anyone. Hording eveything for himself. The other children walk away from him and he is left with his toys. Nothing else. No friends. Nothing.
This is not what God intended for us. We are to treat others like we ourselves would like to be treated. If I have two I need to give to someone that does not have any. When my time comes to leave this earth I cannot take anything with me. I was born with nothing and I will leave with nothing. I will take my good name, how I treated others, and nothing else. Did others see Christ through me?
Gracious Heavenly Father I pray others will see You through how I live my life. I pray that You give me courage to ask myself if I really need that other item I think I just have to have. I give You all the praise and glory. Amen.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Memories
Memories.....by Barbara Streisand ........like the corners of my mind......misty watercolor memories. Memories......they hit you when you least expect it. You can be driving and see an object, be it an old swing in a yard, a broken fence, or whatever it is, and your mind drifts. Memories can be triggred by a smell, the subtle fragrance of perfume by a passing stranger.
Before you can stop it you are in that place again where that fragrance filled your nostrils and you feel the joy or sorrow it brought. Maybe it was the last time he kissed you goodbye and you never saw him again. Was it a good time or was it a bad time? Or was it sweet and sentimental as you parted ways? A mutual but bittersweet goodbye. You brush away a tear.
We go through life making it day by day, working, playing, loving, crying, and laughing. Friends are made, friends are lost, but we carry on. If it weren't for our memories to fall back on in our later years, as we sit in our rocking chairs, we wouldn't be anything. Memories are the scrapbooks of our lives. What we've done, friends we've made, and places we've been. The lives we've touched.
When I reflect on my memories there are some that aren't so good but by far most of my memories are sweet, meaningful, and full of life. I pray yours are too.
Before you can stop it you are in that place again where that fragrance filled your nostrils and you feel the joy or sorrow it brought. Maybe it was the last time he kissed you goodbye and you never saw him again. Was it a good time or was it a bad time? Or was it sweet and sentimental as you parted ways? A mutual but bittersweet goodbye. You brush away a tear.
We go through life making it day by day, working, playing, loving, crying, and laughing. Friends are made, friends are lost, but we carry on. If it weren't for our memories to fall back on in our later years, as we sit in our rocking chairs, we wouldn't be anything. Memories are the scrapbooks of our lives. What we've done, friends we've made, and places we've been. The lives we've touched.
When I reflect on my memories there are some that aren't so good but by far most of my memories are sweet, meaningful, and full of life. I pray yours are too.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
