Recently I was at Michael's arts and crafts store. I was there along with many other people trying to spot out the next great bargain on Christmas bobbles, bows and ribbons all in order to celebrate the birth of the most high and risen savior.
As I stood in line with my finds in front of me there was a woman and two small children. Both children looked to be under the age of ten. As they placed their items on the counter to be purchased they counted out the money that they had apparently earned for their purchases.
As each item was rung up I could see the expression on their faces. They seemed a little overwhelmed by the fact that they would have to use a great deal of their money in order to buy all the items that they desired.
As I stood watching this scene I remembered the extra coupon that I had acquired earlier that week on a previous purchase. Just as I
remembered the coupon I also remembered the scriptures that I had read many times that vividly described the crucifixion of Christ.
Beaten, and bruised for my sins Christ had given over his very life for me.
I walked up to the woman and handed her the coupon, she thanked me and told the children to thank me also.
There was a tiny sense of joy in knowing that I saved the children a few dollars. Again, my mind went back to the scriptures that depicted Christ's
crucification, I was reminded that I
was saved by His grace, mercy and sacrifice.
Our bobble, bows and ribbons can be counted as lost when we begin to think about the sacrifice of Christ; I thought about the momentary happiness of giving away the coupon and it reminded me of this.
When Jesus sees us in all our ribbons and bows of salvation he receives that same joy, except its eternal, it will never be put in a box and placed in the closet after the holiday is over, like we do our fancy wares of Christmas.
Today I celebrate in high style without the ribbons, bobbles and bows a Christ that is risen. Today I celebrate by remembering the blood, piercing pain and sacrifice of Christ, that's the fanciest part of Christmas, and I don't need a coupon it was all given to me for free.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Sunday, November 11, 2012
A Box of Red Marbles
Today I had my first book signing for a book that I wrote about teaching special needs students. The book signing was held in one of my favorite bookstores. It's a quaint, historic building where there's always a diverse group of people who meet for poetry
reading and a great cup of chai.
Today I meet one of those unique, diverse individuals. As I sat greeting my friends and thanking them for their support I met a man named Phillip.
Phillip boldly introduced himself to me and at once told me that he had
Aspergers. I told him that I was glad to meet him.
He asked me several questions about my book and I shared with him about the students that I taught that also had
Aspergers. He shared with me about
some of the social issues that he faces as an adult with a disability.
I thanked him for sharing the most
Intimate details of his daily life with me.
Phillip stayed for most of the time during the book signing. He would mingle amongst the other people who were there for other events, however he would eventually find his way back to my table. We continued to talk about writing and the social aspects that come along with being an individual with Aspergers.
Phillip even stayed and helped me to fold the table cloth that I used for my
book display. He was an kind, gentle soul who had a servant's spirit.
Meeting Phillip today reminded me what so many of us have forgotten.
In the box of red marbles that one purple marble makes the whole box special.
Phillip you make the box of red marbles special, keep being the best purple marble you can be.
reading and a great cup of chai.
Today I meet one of those unique, diverse individuals. As I sat greeting my friends and thanking them for their support I met a man named Phillip.
Phillip boldly introduced himself to me and at once told me that he had
Aspergers. I told him that I was glad to meet him.
He asked me several questions about my book and I shared with him about the students that I taught that also had
Aspergers. He shared with me about
some of the social issues that he faces as an adult with a disability.
I thanked him for sharing the most
Intimate details of his daily life with me.
Phillip stayed for most of the time during the book signing. He would mingle amongst the other people who were there for other events, however he would eventually find his way back to my table. We continued to talk about writing and the social aspects that come along with being an individual with Aspergers.
Phillip even stayed and helped me to fold the table cloth that I used for my
book display. He was an kind, gentle soul who had a servant's spirit.
Meeting Phillip today reminded me what so many of us have forgotten.
In the box of red marbles that one purple marble makes the whole box special.
Phillip you make the box of red marbles special, keep being the best purple marble you can be.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
A Gathering Place
About a month ago I walked into the salon where I have been getting my hair done for the past several years. The proprietress of this shop has a style that not only brands her business, but brings women together for more than a modern coif.
The day that I walked into her salon I found myself gathered into a prayer circle with three other women which
Included the owner of the salon.
As we stood uplifting one of our spiritual sisters up in prayer I began to see the ministry that my stylist had created in her business. Over the years we have gathered in this small hair sanctuary where we have found encouragement, laughter and friendship.
Hair salons have been the topic makers for several movies; we have all cried during those touching scenes in
"The Steel Magnolia," and laughed at the antics depicted in Queen Latifah's "The Salon." Most women can relate to the social circles that can be found in the inter sanction of a hair salon. However, the place where I gather is much different than your ordinary hair salon; here is a place of ministry.
Here is where we can freely share our victories and our defeats. We can count on a Godly word mixed with some life experiences that we can gleam knowledge from.
This little shop is no ordinary place, here we can find a sense of self both externally and internally. It's a good gathering place, one that God has endorsed.
Where is your gathering place, is it a place that God frequents? Do you find Godly advice or gossip? Will you find a circle of prayer or a den of envy?
It's good to have a good gathering place.
The day that I walked into her salon I found myself gathered into a prayer circle with three other women which
Included the owner of the salon.
As we stood uplifting one of our spiritual sisters up in prayer I began to see the ministry that my stylist had created in her business. Over the years we have gathered in this small hair sanctuary where we have found encouragement, laughter and friendship.
Hair salons have been the topic makers for several movies; we have all cried during those touching scenes in
"The Steel Magnolia," and laughed at the antics depicted in Queen Latifah's "The Salon." Most women can relate to the social circles that can be found in the inter sanction of a hair salon. However, the place where I gather is much different than your ordinary hair salon; here is a place of ministry.
Here is where we can freely share our victories and our defeats. We can count on a Godly word mixed with some life experiences that we can gleam knowledge from.
This little shop is no ordinary place, here we can find a sense of self both externally and internally. It's a good gathering place, one that God has endorsed.
Where is your gathering place, is it a place that God frequents? Do you find Godly advice or gossip? Will you find a circle of prayer or a den of envy?
It's good to have a good gathering place.
My Passed Relatives Girl Friend
I have a good friend who has stuck closer than a sister. Almost two years ago my ninety five year old aunt became very ill and had to be relocated from Chicago to Harrisburg. This was a very difficult time for our family. Taking in an elderly relative can be an overwhelming task. However,
my girlfriend made the transition a much easier one.
She traveled with me to Chicago and helped me get my aunt settled back here in Harrisburg, once she was settled her and several other friends became my aunt's care takers.
During this transition, my girl friend brought me great comfort. Her nurturing spirit was a true gift from God. Most recently this nurturing spirit of hers was called into action again.
A week ago my older brother became quite ill and subsequently past away several days later. Having to travel from Harrisburg to Maryland alone was not something that I ventured on doing so soon after hurricane Sandy.
This is when my trusty friend put back on her cape of compassion and teamed tagged along with me for another trip for another relative.
Her companionship settled my spirits
and reminded me of the scripture Proverbs 17:17, "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." She had truly been a friend in my times of adversity. I thank the Lord for my "all weather" friend who
Is not just a traveling buddy but a
source of great comfort.
I pray that you have a "all weather"
friend that sticks closer than a sister. These individuals are far and in between, so I am blessed in the
Lord to have such a gift.
my girlfriend made the transition a much easier one.
She traveled with me to Chicago and helped me get my aunt settled back here in Harrisburg, once she was settled her and several other friends became my aunt's care takers.
During this transition, my girl friend brought me great comfort. Her nurturing spirit was a true gift from God. Most recently this nurturing spirit of hers was called into action again.
A week ago my older brother became quite ill and subsequently past away several days later. Having to travel from Harrisburg to Maryland alone was not something that I ventured on doing so soon after hurricane Sandy.
This is when my trusty friend put back on her cape of compassion and teamed tagged along with me for another trip for another relative.
Her companionship settled my spirits
and reminded me of the scripture Proverbs 17:17, "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity." She had truly been a friend in my times of adversity. I thank the Lord for my "all weather" friend who
Is not just a traveling buddy but a
source of great comfort.
I pray that you have a "all weather"
friend that sticks closer than a sister. These individuals are far and in between, so I am blessed in the
Lord to have such a gift.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Our Heroes Who are yet not Fallen
Most recently I traveled to Washington
DC to visit my brother who is gravely ill at the Veteran's Memorial Hospital. This visit was not one that I anticipated. It had only been a few short weeks ago that I had spoken to my brother, at that time he continued to struggle with many health ailments,
but his spirits were high and he was
thankful for how the Lord had kept him.
But today as I sat outside of the MICU
now looking at my brother who is no longer breathing on his own or talking, but who now depends upon a ventilator and a dialysis machine to keep him alive,as I sat in the waiting room God brought many thoughts crashing through my mind.
I first thought about the many years
of military training that my brother had after serving in the army for twenty two years. He had retired as a Lieutenant Cornel and served his country well in Vietnam and Korea.
God had kept him, and brought him home safely, allowing him to continue to have a flourishing career in the field of communications while being a faithful father to three sons and a husband to a wife who loved him dearly.
While I thought about the life that my brother had led I also began to think about the other men that I saw enter the hospital for treatment; they were of various ages, there were many who were missing limbs, blind and suffering from the ravages of old age.
The thought continued to linger with me for two days; I realized that not only was I there to bring comfort to my my family, but to also silently, prayerfully give thanks to my Lord and Savior for all that these men had done for me and many others.
I can rest in peace knowing that my brother knows Jesus as his Lord and Savior, I am not anxious or fearful for God's plans for this time in his life. All is well with my spirit when it comes to our relationship, however I began to think about the other men that I saw come and go during this time.
I don't know them by name, nor do I know their stories, I am sure they have many they could share. After spending those two days at the Veteran's hospital there is now one story that I can share. These men are our heroes they are still walking talk and now fighting the battles of everyday life.
They may no longer have their weapons or their uniforms, but there is still one thing that they carry that nothing can take away, honor. Today I honor you, our "unfallen" heroes.
Today I say thank you!
DC to visit my brother who is gravely ill at the Veteran's Memorial Hospital. This visit was not one that I anticipated. It had only been a few short weeks ago that I had spoken to my brother, at that time he continued to struggle with many health ailments,
but his spirits were high and he was
thankful for how the Lord had kept him.
But today as I sat outside of the MICU
now looking at my brother who is no longer breathing on his own or talking, but who now depends upon a ventilator and a dialysis machine to keep him alive,as I sat in the waiting room God brought many thoughts crashing through my mind.
I first thought about the many years
of military training that my brother had after serving in the army for twenty two years. He had retired as a Lieutenant Cornel and served his country well in Vietnam and Korea.
God had kept him, and brought him home safely, allowing him to continue to have a flourishing career in the field of communications while being a faithful father to three sons and a husband to a wife who loved him dearly.
While I thought about the life that my brother had led I also began to think about the other men that I saw enter the hospital for treatment; they were of various ages, there were many who were missing limbs, blind and suffering from the ravages of old age.
The thought continued to linger with me for two days; I realized that not only was I there to bring comfort to my my family, but to also silently, prayerfully give thanks to my Lord and Savior for all that these men had done for me and many others.
I can rest in peace knowing that my brother knows Jesus as his Lord and Savior, I am not anxious or fearful for God's plans for this time in his life. All is well with my spirit when it comes to our relationship, however I began to think about the other men that I saw come and go during this time.
I don't know them by name, nor do I know their stories, I am sure they have many they could share. After spending those two days at the Veteran's hospital there is now one story that I can share. These men are our heroes they are still walking talk and now fighting the battles of everyday life.
They may no longer have their weapons or their uniforms, but there is still one thing that they carry that nothing can take away, honor. Today I honor you, our "unfallen" heroes.
Today I say thank you!
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Unusual Enterprise
For several weeks I have been taking my son and and his friend, who lives down the street from us to school. Each morning my young carpooler arrives at our door wearing a pair of athletic slides. He takes them off as he enters the house and leaves them
by the patio door.
I had come pretty accustom to his
little morning routine. This morning was quite different, as he entered the house he took off his slides, sat down on the sofa and put on his sneakers, however
I noticed that he now carried a third pair if shoes with him.
This pair was carried in a shoe box. When I asked the question, simply
out of curiosity and in attempt to make interesting conversation with a teenager, "What's up with all the shoes?" He replied by saying that he was planning on putting the shoes that he had recently purchased up for sale.
This of course had me quite interested
In learning more about the impending
business venture that my young friend
had in store. He went on to share with me that he has many pairs of sneakers and he had recently purchased a pair that he had only worn once or twice and he was now in the market to sell them and to make a new purchase.
This information really began to peak my interest, as I too am the owner of many pairs of shoes. After having known this young man for many years I have come to realize that we had something in common, we both have a love of shoes! Unlike my young friend I would never be in the market to sell any of my coveted possessions, there's not a pair that I could imagine parting with.
On the second day I asked my carpooler about how he made out with his shoe sale, he replied that he had not yet had a taker for his shoes. He indicated that he would continue to try again on another day.
On the third day, he finally had a taker for his shoes. He was quite happy with the results of his business venture. After giving it some thought I begin to think about how God continues to seek us out until we decide to "purchase" the priceless product of salvation. The only difference is that he already paid the price. There were no bargains to be made, no discounts to be found, the purchase price was life itself that was given freely.
We are God's coveted possessions that he keeps safe in the "shoe box" of his heart. My carpooler carried his shoes in a box and offered them up to the one who gave the best price.
Christ also gave us his best when he carried his cross to Calvary. My friend sold his best, Christ gave us his best, his one and only begotten son.
On the third day carpooler received his reward, On the third day Christ rose, now we have a reward that is priceless.
by the patio door.
I had come pretty accustom to his
little morning routine. This morning was quite different, as he entered the house he took off his slides, sat down on the sofa and put on his sneakers, however
I noticed that he now carried a third pair if shoes with him.
This pair was carried in a shoe box. When I asked the question, simply
out of curiosity and in attempt to make interesting conversation with a teenager, "What's up with all the shoes?" He replied by saying that he was planning on putting the shoes that he had recently purchased up for sale.
This of course had me quite interested
In learning more about the impending
business venture that my young friend
had in store. He went on to share with me that he has many pairs of sneakers and he had recently purchased a pair that he had only worn once or twice and he was now in the market to sell them and to make a new purchase.
This information really began to peak my interest, as I too am the owner of many pairs of shoes. After having known this young man for many years I have come to realize that we had something in common, we both have a love of shoes! Unlike my young friend I would never be in the market to sell any of my coveted possessions, there's not a pair that I could imagine parting with.
On the second day I asked my carpooler about how he made out with his shoe sale, he replied that he had not yet had a taker for his shoes. He indicated that he would continue to try again on another day.
On the third day, he finally had a taker for his shoes. He was quite happy with the results of his business venture. After giving it some thought I begin to think about how God continues to seek us out until we decide to "purchase" the priceless product of salvation. The only difference is that he already paid the price. There were no bargains to be made, no discounts to be found, the purchase price was life itself that was given freely.
We are God's coveted possessions that he keeps safe in the "shoe box" of his heart. My carpooler carried his shoes in a box and offered them up to the one who gave the best price.
Christ also gave us his best when he carried his cross to Calvary. My friend sold his best, Christ gave us his best, his one and only begotten son.
On the third day carpooler received his reward, On the third day Christ rose, now we have a reward that is priceless.
Monday, October 1, 2012
Sometimes the Backseat is the Best Seat in the Car
Recently I sat outside my son's school waiting for him to finish basketball practice. As I sat and waited I had a few minutes to watch the kids depart from the fair grounds of academia. There were kids who carpooled with each other, and there were kids who had not yet arrived at the threshold of
Independence that driving brings. This group of kids still depended upon either their parents or as the kids call it
"The Cheese Wagon" for their ride home.
As I sat and watched the interactions between kids and adults occur there was one that really caught my eye.
A car pulls up, a few seconds later a young girl quickly flees from the door of the school and runs toward the front
seat of the car.
Just when I think all the action has
dissipated a boy comes running after
her. On my first observation I thought they were hurrying off to an appointment. After a few minutes
I realized what all the scurrying was for.
It was a race for the front seat, the
prized position of riding "shotgun."
You see, the young man had lost the race, his sister had beat him to the prized position that he coveted.
At this point I had rolled down my window so that I could give witness to the discussion that occurred between
the battling siblings. I could hear the young girl saying, " I got here first,
losers take the back seat." His response was muffled, I'm sure he was feeling slightly defeated as he trudged toward the back seat of the car and took a seat besides the family dog.
As I watched their departure another
intriging thought came to mind. How
often do we find ourselves in what we
believe is the spiritual "backseat"feeling defeated and
wholeheartedly believing that some
how we have lost the race to those opposing opponents of life. Our faith may be a little shaken and our spirits are down a pint or two.
These are the times that our Lord and Savior has positioned us in a quiet place and tells us to reflect on his word and his magnificent ability to comfort and support us in our times of riding in the backseat.
Those "backseat" periods in our lives are God's way of encouraging us and allowing us to know that in our distress we can call upon Him for help and from His temple he will hear our voice
and our cries will come before him into
His ears. (Paraphrased from Psalm
18:6).
So remember, the next time that you are riding in the back seat that God is sitting right besides you, so relax and focus on the destination, and then rejoice in your arrival!
Independence that driving brings. This group of kids still depended upon either their parents or as the kids call it
"The Cheese Wagon" for their ride home.
As I sat and watched the interactions between kids and adults occur there was one that really caught my eye.
A car pulls up, a few seconds later a young girl quickly flees from the door of the school and runs toward the front
seat of the car.
Just when I think all the action has
dissipated a boy comes running after
her. On my first observation I thought they were hurrying off to an appointment. After a few minutes
I realized what all the scurrying was for.
It was a race for the front seat, the
prized position of riding "shotgun."
You see, the young man had lost the race, his sister had beat him to the prized position that he coveted.
At this point I had rolled down my window so that I could give witness to the discussion that occurred between
the battling siblings. I could hear the young girl saying, " I got here first,
losers take the back seat." His response was muffled, I'm sure he was feeling slightly defeated as he trudged toward the back seat of the car and took a seat besides the family dog.
As I watched their departure another
intriging thought came to mind. How
often do we find ourselves in what we
believe is the spiritual "backseat"feeling defeated and
wholeheartedly believing that some
how we have lost the race to those opposing opponents of life. Our faith may be a little shaken and our spirits are down a pint or two.
These are the times that our Lord and Savior has positioned us in a quiet place and tells us to reflect on his word and his magnificent ability to comfort and support us in our times of riding in the backseat.
Those "backseat" periods in our lives are God's way of encouraging us and allowing us to know that in our distress we can call upon Him for help and from His temple he will hear our voice
and our cries will come before him into
His ears. (Paraphrased from Psalm
18:6).
So remember, the next time that you are riding in the back seat that God is sitting right besides you, so relax and focus on the destination, and then rejoice in your arrival!
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
The Bird and the Buddy
Recently a strange event occurred out in our backyard. It was an ordinary evening, my son was outside in the driveway playing basketball. Suddenly, my cell phone rang, it was my son calling me from the backyard. When I asked him why he was calling me from the backyard when he could have come into the house and talk to me he replied in a whispered voice,"Mom, look out the patio window, there's a huge white bird sitting on the settee on the deck."
When I looked out of the window there sat a pure white pigeon sitting very still on our back porch. He seemed as though he had traveled a great distance and suffered from an extreme case of fatigue.
To make a long story short we ended up taking pictures of the bird and posting his picture on Facebook. We have been blessed with good friends who decided to take the bird in for the evening, they cared for it and feed it.
My husband posted a picture of the bird on Facebook. Shortly after the picture was posted the owner called to claim his lost pet. The most fascinating fact to this entire story is that the bird had sustained an injury during his trip. He was a carrier pigeon who had traveled all the way from Virginia to Pennsylvania.
He could have landed anywhere, however, God saw that a special place was needed in order to protect this special species. His landing place was our back yard. We had friends who could provide all that he would need to stay safe and protected. This story doesn't just happen with feathered friends, God provides us with a safe haven when we have lost our way. He places people in our path that have all the resources that we need to thrive and flourish.
When I looked out of the window there sat a pure white pigeon sitting very still on our back porch. He seemed as though he had traveled a great distance and suffered from an extreme case of fatigue.
To make a long story short we ended up taking pictures of the bird and posting his picture on Facebook. We have been blessed with good friends who decided to take the bird in for the evening, they cared for it and feed it.
My husband posted a picture of the bird on Facebook. Shortly after the picture was posted the owner called to claim his lost pet. The most fascinating fact to this entire story is that the bird had sustained an injury during his trip. He was a carrier pigeon who had traveled all the way from Virginia to Pennsylvania.
He could have landed anywhere, however, God saw that a special place was needed in order to protect this special species. His landing place was our back yard. We had friends who could provide all that he would need to stay safe and protected. This story doesn't just happen with feathered friends, God provides us with a safe haven when we have lost our way. He places people in our path that have all the resources that we need to thrive and flourish.
Monday, September 24, 2012
The Safe Lane
Recently I was driving on the interstate on my way to church. The traffic was moving along quite smoothly and the cars were traveling at a steady pace.
As I traveled along my way I noticed that all of the cars started to slowly move over into the right lane. After a few minutes the traffic slowed down to a slow crawl. As I looked ahead I noticed that there was a flatbed truck carrying a large load of lumber that was tied down by several canvas straps.
As the trucker traveled along his way his load had begun to shift to one side.The other drivers realized that the best thing to do was to move over in the next lane to give the truck driver a clear lane to pass.This sudden change in traffic flow caused the turtle's pace. I sat and thought about how God does this to his children.
He is our guide, a passage way for safe travel. It says in Psalm 73:21-26,
Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterwards you take me into glory.
Whom have I in heaven but you?
And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
He alway let's us know when we have moved into a unsafe lane, when our loads become a little lopsided he moves over and gives us clear vision for a safe passage while guiding us to a place of safety. sometimes the pace seems slow, but his path is always the best direction for our travels. There's a comfort in knowing that our Lord and Savior is directing traffic and watching out for overloaded travelers.
As I traveled along my way I noticed that all of the cars started to slowly move over into the right lane. After a few minutes the traffic slowed down to a slow crawl. As I looked ahead I noticed that there was a flatbed truck carrying a large load of lumber that was tied down by several canvas straps.
As the trucker traveled along his way his load had begun to shift to one side.The other drivers realized that the best thing to do was to move over in the next lane to give the truck driver a clear lane to pass.This sudden change in traffic flow caused the turtle's pace. I sat and thought about how God does this to his children.
He is our guide, a passage way for safe travel. It says in Psalm 73:21-26,
Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterwards you take me into glory.
Whom have I in heaven but you?
And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail,
but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
He alway let's us know when we have moved into a unsafe lane, when our loads become a little lopsided he moves over and gives us clear vision for a safe passage while guiding us to a place of safety. sometimes the pace seems slow, but his path is always the best direction for our travels. There's a comfort in knowing that our Lord and Savior is directing traffic and watching out for overloaded travelers.
Monday, September 17, 2012
The Spirit Shop
The other day I was sitting in my car in the parking lot outside of the gym waiting for my son. Besides the gym there is a wine and spirit shop. I happen to enjoy people watching. As I sat watching people entering and leaving both the gym and the Wine and Spirit Shop an intriging thought began to enter my mind.
The people who left both places had similiar thoughts. They were both seeking ways to uplift both their minds and their bodies. We often have our own ideas about what is best for us. Sometimes we can get very creative in seeking solutions to ease our troubled bodies and minds.
Those who leave the gym know that there's nothing better to help shed those few extra pounds than a few minutes in a spin class or a good run a on a trusty treadmill.
I myself find exercise to be a great way to relax and release those natural endorphins that God created in us to to give us a natural sense of well-being.
However, there is only one proven method that is 100% affective in giving us the peace that comes without understanding. There's nothing like a drink from the living water himself or running the good race of persistence like Paul.
My faith and hope lie in knowing that my Lord and Savior is the source of my strength and comfort. He strenghtens my mind, body and soul. So where ever you go, what ever you do remember what Colossians 3:2 tells us, "Set your minds on things above, not on earthy things and you will have the peace of the Lord who surpases the peace of all your understanding.
The people who left both places had similiar thoughts. They were both seeking ways to uplift both their minds and their bodies. We often have our own ideas about what is best for us. Sometimes we can get very creative in seeking solutions to ease our troubled bodies and minds.
Those who leave the gym know that there's nothing better to help shed those few extra pounds than a few minutes in a spin class or a good run a on a trusty treadmill.
I myself find exercise to be a great way to relax and release those natural endorphins that God created in us to to give us a natural sense of well-being.
However, there is only one proven method that is 100% affective in giving us the peace that comes without understanding. There's nothing like a drink from the living water himself or running the good race of persistence like Paul.
My faith and hope lie in knowing that my Lord and Savior is the source of my strength and comfort. He strenghtens my mind, body and soul. So where ever you go, what ever you do remember what Colossians 3:2 tells us, "Set your minds on things above, not on earthy things and you will have the peace of the Lord who surpases the peace of all your understanding.
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
The Keyless Remote
Recently I went to a friend's house to work on a project. We have spent several weeks working on the same project, so today was like another ordinary day working on this project with my friend. However, this day turned into quite an extraordinary
day like no other day.
As we sat at my friend's dining room table working on the plans for our project we were quite impressed with our progress. Things were going smoothly until it was time for me to leave.
When I went to start my car I realized that I did not have my car keys.
My friend and I searched both the car and her house for close to a hour looking for my keys.
After carefully retracing my steps that I
had taken prior to leaving my house
I realized that I had left home without them. Because I had started the car prior to going back into the house to retrieve a forgotten item the car was able to run without the key because of the keyless remote. I could get where I needed to go and do the things that I needed to do as long as the car was running, as soon as I turn off the motor the car will not restart again unless I have the key.
Our lives are very similar to my car experience, we can get to where we need to be and do the things that we need to do, but eventually God stops us and reminds us that he is our key and our guide to future travels.
It tells us in Psalms 48:14 "For this
God is our God for ever and ever;
he will be our guide even to the end."
Once I shut off my engine my car would no longer run without the key.
Thank heavens that our God is a God who never leaves us or forsakes us even when we have forgotten him. However, he often shuts us down and stops us from running for a short
period of time until we return to him and realize that he is the only key that we will ever need.
day like no other day.
As we sat at my friend's dining room table working on the plans for our project we were quite impressed with our progress. Things were going smoothly until it was time for me to leave.
When I went to start my car I realized that I did not have my car keys.
My friend and I searched both the car and her house for close to a hour looking for my keys.
After carefully retracing my steps that I
had taken prior to leaving my house
I realized that I had left home without them. Because I had started the car prior to going back into the house to retrieve a forgotten item the car was able to run without the key because of the keyless remote. I could get where I needed to go and do the things that I needed to do as long as the car was running, as soon as I turn off the motor the car will not restart again unless I have the key.
Our lives are very similar to my car experience, we can get to where we need to be and do the things that we need to do, but eventually God stops us and reminds us that he is our key and our guide to future travels.
It tells us in Psalms 48:14 "For this
God is our God for ever and ever;
he will be our guide even to the end."
Once I shut off my engine my car would no longer run without the key.
Thank heavens that our God is a God who never leaves us or forsakes us even when we have forgotten him. However, he often shuts us down and stops us from running for a short
period of time until we return to him and realize that he is the only key that we will ever need.
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Pushing the Shopping Cart
The other day I sat in the parking lot of Cosco's waiting for my sister-in-law. As I sat waiting for her I noticed a small boy pushing a cart heavily laden with groceries. Behind him was a man that I assumed was his father. As the little boy struggled with pushing the cart across the parking lot using all the effort that he could muster I watched as the man walked closely behind him being sure not to move to far away just in case his son needed his assistance.
As the two of them passed in front of my car I had the opportunity to see the
expression on their faces. The father smiled and gave words of encouragement and the little boy had a look of determination that indicated that he was determined to see the task through.
Sometimes we forget the importance of what having a good cheerleader can do to boost our confidence and give us that extra push when the cart gets heavy. Acts 11:25-26 tells us about how Barnabas (The Son of Encouragement) met with the people of Antioch for an entire year to give themwords of encouragement about Christ. Because of Barnabas' words the people of Antioch were the first to be called Christians.
Who knows what that father could be spurning on in his son with his simple words of encouragement. Today a grocery cart, but tomorrow who knows?
It's Ok to let go of the Polka Dot Coffee Mugs
Several years ago I bought a set of twelve polka dot coffee mugs. I loved these mugs. Every morning when I arrived at my kitchen cabinet a bright, shiny coffee mug of either red, blue or black polka dot would be there to greet me.
Over the last several years I have begun losing several of my favorite mugs. Handles have been broken, chips have appeared and now I am down to only eight perfect coffee mugs that have managed to remain intact.
I never really thought about how significant a coffee mug was until I started thinking about somethings in my life that God has decided to either chip away, crack or completely destroy. He doesn't want us to hold on to the old things in our lives in 2 Corinthians 5:17 Paul tells the Corinthians "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, the old has gone, the new has come!"
Over the years that I have had my polka dot coffee mugs I have enjoyed them, but there are a whole new set of coffee mugs that are just as bright and cheerful just waiting for the purchase. Just as there is new life waiting in Christ, He's just waiting for us to throw away what's cracked and broken.
Over the last several years I have begun losing several of my favorite mugs. Handles have been broken, chips have appeared and now I am down to only eight perfect coffee mugs that have managed to remain intact.
I never really thought about how significant a coffee mug was until I started thinking about somethings in my life that God has decided to either chip away, crack or completely destroy. He doesn't want us to hold on to the old things in our lives in 2 Corinthians 5:17 Paul tells the Corinthians "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, the old has gone, the new has come!"
Over the years that I have had my polka dot coffee mugs I have enjoyed them, but there are a whole new set of coffee mugs that are just as bright and cheerful just waiting for the purchase. Just as there is new life waiting in Christ, He's just waiting for us to throw away what's cracked and broken.
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
The Pizza Boy Looked Distressed
It had been an ordinary day, spent doing laundry, cleaning the house and taking my son to the orthodontist; nothing out of the ordinary. I had managed to get all but two loads of laundry completed,this was a major accomplishment for my day.The day before my son and I were having a discussion about service.I told him how blessed his father would be if he came home and the lawn had been mowed, his room was cleaned and the trash had been taken out all without having to be told to do these things.His answer to this question was to simply agree, however there wasn't a lot of movement toward performing any of those tasks without prompting.
Later that same day we were on our way to bible study, as we stopped at a red light we looked over to see a young pizza delivery boy. As both of our cars sat waiting for the light to change I noticed something about the continence of the young pizza delivery boy, he seemed distressed and upset, as though he was having a very rough day. As we drove to our destination I began to thing about Paul's words in Colossians 3:17, "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Paul tells us this again in Colossians 3:23-24, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward."
Later that evening God reminded me of what he had shared with me earlier that day, he wants us to take pleasure in doing those ordinary things like laundry, cleaning and delivering pizza.Our real reward will not come from what man sees, but what God sees and knows. I sat thinking about the young pizza boy, I prayed that he would find joy in his next pizza delivery; I sat looking at the folded loads of laundry washed earlier that day. These ordinary things took on a new meaning.If God gives me tomorrow, I will finish the rest of the laundry, it will be the best laundry that I have ever completed, because I will be washing for the joy of the Lord!
Later that same day we were on our way to bible study, as we stopped at a red light we looked over to see a young pizza delivery boy. As both of our cars sat waiting for the light to change I noticed something about the continence of the young pizza delivery boy, he seemed distressed and upset, as though he was having a very rough day. As we drove to our destination I began to thing about Paul's words in Colossians 3:17, "And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Paul tells us this again in Colossians 3:23-24, "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward."
Later that evening God reminded me of what he had shared with me earlier that day, he wants us to take pleasure in doing those ordinary things like laundry, cleaning and delivering pizza.Our real reward will not come from what man sees, but what God sees and knows. I sat thinking about the young pizza boy, I prayed that he would find joy in his next pizza delivery; I sat looking at the folded loads of laundry washed earlier that day. These ordinary things took on a new meaning.If God gives me tomorrow, I will finish the rest of the laundry, it will be the best laundry that I have ever completed, because I will be washing for the joy of the Lord!
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
When the Thrift Shop Rice Cooker Doesn't work.
Recently I visited a little thrift shop down the street from my girlfriend's bakery. In the past I have found some great buys there. Prior to my visit I has mentioned to my girlfriend that I would really like to purchase a rice cooker. She had mentioned that cooking rice in a rice cooker really did improve the texture and taste of whole grain organic rice. She had recently purchased one for 10.00 at the local grocery store. As I browsed in the thrift shop, I spotted a little rice cooker all for the amazing price of 7.00.What a bargain, at least that is what I thought at the time.
That night I decided to treat my family to a culinary delight using the new thrift shop rice cooker. To my surprise the rice cooker failed to perform, the controls would only work on warm and the rice was left uncooked and soaking in water.To my disappointment I was forced to return to the old fashion way of cooking rice on the stove.
What I thought was a bargain really wasn't a bargain at all.The expression, "You get what you pay for" came to my mind.I also I thought about what God tells us in John 14:6, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No One comes to the father except through me."We often try to find short cuts in life. My thrift shop rice cooker was no bargain, life without Christ is no bargain either, we are often left unfulfilled and soaking in sin.When it came to saving I spent more than I saved. When we live a life without Christ we are shopping at the thrift shop and we might end up with a broken rice cooker.
That night I decided to treat my family to a culinary delight using the new thrift shop rice cooker. To my surprise the rice cooker failed to perform, the controls would only work on warm and the rice was left uncooked and soaking in water.To my disappointment I was forced to return to the old fashion way of cooking rice on the stove.
What I thought was a bargain really wasn't a bargain at all.The expression, "You get what you pay for" came to my mind.I also I thought about what God tells us in John 14:6, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No One comes to the father except through me."We often try to find short cuts in life. My thrift shop rice cooker was no bargain, life without Christ is no bargain either, we are often left unfulfilled and soaking in sin.When it came to saving I spent more than I saved. When we live a life without Christ we are shopping at the thrift shop and we might end up with a broken rice cooker.
Saturday, August 4, 2012
"Don't Leave me"
Today was our annual church picnic.We have had the picnic in the same location for the past several years. Each year when it is time for me to travel to the location I follow my girl friend and her husband to the park. They have consistently teased me about my lack of a sense of direction; in fact my girl friend jokingly told me that she was having a tee shirt made for me that would say, "Don't Leave me." This is what I consistently say to them as we travel to the park, them in their car and me in mine.
I know that they will not leave me even if I fall behind in traffic, they will pull over to the side of the road and wait until I catch up.They will see me safely to my destination. The friends that I have will get behind me and lead me down the right path until I reach the chosen destination. Even though they often tease me about my lack of direction, they never look at my limitations as a weakness or a fault.
This is what God does for us, In Joshua 1:5 God tells Joshua, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." He does for me what my good friends do for me, he stays besides me, leading me down the right path, safely seeing me to the destination that he has for me. He pulls over to the side of the road and waits for me when I get caught up and traffic and have lost my way. Jesus is my friend who will never leave me.
I know that they will not leave me even if I fall behind in traffic, they will pull over to the side of the road and wait until I catch up.They will see me safely to my destination. The friends that I have will get behind me and lead me down the right path until I reach the chosen destination. Even though they often tease me about my lack of direction, they never look at my limitations as a weakness or a fault.
This is what God does for us, In Joshua 1:5 God tells Joshua, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." He does for me what my good friends do for me, he stays besides me, leading me down the right path, safely seeing me to the destination that he has for me. He pulls over to the side of the road and waits for me when I get caught up and traffic and have lost my way. Jesus is my friend who will never leave me.
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Kids that He Loves
During the summer I spent most of my time at home. This is the first summer of my retirement as a teacher. After twenty four years of teaching the ending of the summer does not mean the start of going back to school.
It's a strange feeling. During this time at home I find that my home is usually full of either my son's friends who are going into high school this fall or my daughter's college friends.
All of these kids just seem to gravitate towards our home. They come, they sleep, they eat and hang out and watch tv. We have developed a relationship of familiarity. Christ draws us in and tells us of his way in his word when we knock on the door of his heart and open his word.
In Revelations 3:20 Jesus says, "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.
The key to all these relationships is the words "hears and Listens." When my children's friends come over they know that our home is a place where they will feel comfortable, they have no fear of knocking on the door of our home and knowing we will say come in.
This is the relationship that God desires to have with all of His children. I want to be available to hear and welcome both the physical presence of others and be their source of comfort, but I also want to be close to the door so that I can hear the spiritual knock of Christ.
It's a strange feeling. During this time at home I find that my home is usually full of either my son's friends who are going into high school this fall or my daughter's college friends.
All of these kids just seem to gravitate towards our home. They come, they sleep, they eat and hang out and watch tv. We have developed a relationship of familiarity. Christ draws us in and tells us of his way in his word when we knock on the door of his heart and open his word.
In Revelations 3:20 Jesus says, "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.
The key to all these relationships is the words "hears and Listens." When my children's friends come over they know that our home is a place where they will feel comfortable, they have no fear of knocking on the door of our home and knowing we will say come in.
This is the relationship that God desires to have with all of His children. I want to be available to hear and welcome both the physical presence of others and be their source of comfort, but I also want to be close to the door so that I can hear the spiritual knock of Christ.
For Some Purple Hair is Normal
For the last several weeks I have been helping my girlfriend and her husband with the little details needed to open up their bakery. They have been open now for about a month. During the time that they were closed and relocating to a new location they had many of their regular customers stopping by and asking them when they were going to reopen.
As I spent time with my friend assisting her I had the opportunity to meet many of the "regulars." Today I had the opportunity to meet an intriguing woman with purple hair. Upon first observation I thought her unusual choice of hair color to be for a lack of a better word slightly corky.
After spending a few minutes engaged in a lighthearted conversation with her I discovered an individual with an
endearing, humorous personality who was a delight to talk to. I thoroughly enjoyed the time that I spent talking with her.
On first observation her purple hair raised several puzzling questions in my mine. After spending time engaged in such a pleasant conversation God gently taped me on the shoulder and reminded me of His words in John 7:24, "Stop judging by mere appearances, and make a right judgement."
Whenever there is a command written by Christ it is imperative to heed His word. Because I want to glorify Him I realized that I needed to ask for forgiveness and see beyond exterior appearances and look inward and see what Christ sees when he looks at us.
He looks beyond our "purple hair" and sees his child. A child who is full of "corkiness" and sin. He embraces and excepts us while we come to know him better.
As I spent time with my friend assisting her I had the opportunity to meet many of the "regulars." Today I had the opportunity to meet an intriguing woman with purple hair. Upon first observation I thought her unusual choice of hair color to be for a lack of a better word slightly corky.
After spending a few minutes engaged in a lighthearted conversation with her I discovered an individual with an
endearing, humorous personality who was a delight to talk to. I thoroughly enjoyed the time that I spent talking with her.
On first observation her purple hair raised several puzzling questions in my mine. After spending time engaged in such a pleasant conversation God gently taped me on the shoulder and reminded me of His words in John 7:24, "Stop judging by mere appearances, and make a right judgement."
Whenever there is a command written by Christ it is imperative to heed His word. Because I want to glorify Him I realized that I needed to ask for forgiveness and see beyond exterior appearances and look inward and see what Christ sees when he looks at us.
He looks beyond our "purple hair" and sees his child. A child who is full of "corkiness" and sin. He embraces and excepts us while we come to know him better.
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