“Grace Is For Today”

We urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain…now is the time for God’s favor,

2Corinthians 6:1, 2

Sharon awoke with a migraine, “Lord, I’m not sure I can do this again today…” It wasn’t as much a statement as it was a frustrated plea. Actually, it wasn’t the headache that caused her frustration; it was her four-year-old daughter, Kaylee’s medical condition that continued to wear on Sharon’s resolve.

Knowing what she needed to do, yet not really feeling like it, Sharon prayed anyway, “Lord, give me the grace to make it through this day. Help me be the right example for Kaylee. Please hold her and carry her through these last two chemo treatments. Help Don and me to be faithful in the midst of adversity. Teach Kaylee more about You today than she knew yesterday; and show her favor. Guide our steps as well as our words, Lord. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”  

Sharon got out of bed, took a couple Tylenol, and headed for Kaylee’s room, “Rise and shine, Kiddo!” Sharon said brightly. “Only two more treatments and you get a vacation!”

“Oh, Mommy!” Kaylee said, matter-of-factly. “I told you…its no big deal. I’m a big girl; ’member?”

Grateful for her daughter’s positive outlook, Sharon smiled a mischievous smile and dove toward her daughter, knocking her onto her back in the bed. The ensuing pillow-fight was just what they needed. And miraculously, when it was over, Sharon’s migraine was gone!

†

Each day we awaken to many of the same problems we had when we went to sleep the night before. But yesterday’s grace won’t cover things today; it isn’t meant to.

We are to draw anew on the favor of God each day, asking only for enough grace to navigate today.

God did not give us the promise of no adversity. He did, however, promise the grace to make it through each new day as we come to Him for solace, comfort, wisdom, and favor.  

God wants to meet you where you’re at today, with exactly what you need.

Prayer

“Lord, I thank you for each new day You provide. Help me look for the possibilities instead of moping around in self-designated grief. Thank You for Your favor and grace this day. I give You praise in Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Elevator or Stairs?

Your ears will hear a voice behind you saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”

Isaiah 30:21

As Chris stood waiting for the elevator, he felt God suggest, “Take the stairs.” But I’m in a hurry, Lord he reasoned.  And besides, I’m tired…that’s ten flights of stairs. “Take the stairs.” He heard a second time.

Fine! he silently expressed his frustration.

As he approached to the fourth floor landing, Chris heard muffled crying. Cautiously taking the next few steps, he could make out a woman’s voice, “I can’t do this anymore.” Rounding the next landing, he came face-to-face with a young woman, seated on the stairs, the step below her wet with tears. Chris quickly prayed for wisdom. “She needs to know I love her.” came God’s gentle voice. Chris asked, “Can I help you?”

As the woman’s story unfolded, Chris discovered she had been contemplating suicide. She was trying to get up the nerve to go to the roof and jump, believing this would end her problems.

As Chris shared with her about Jesus’ love and His desire and ability to carry her through her pain, a glimmer of hope appeared in the woman’s eyes. By the time Chris finished sharing, her desperation had been replaced by a desire to know the One of whom Chris spoke so highly. Chris would never forget this morning’s lesson. 

†

Though at first resistant, Chris obeyed, and a life was saved. We’re not sure what his disobedience would have wrought; quite possibly the woman would have taken her life, losing the opportunity to come to know Jesus, and making matters worse for those she left behind. Thanks to Chris’s obedience, we’ll never know.

This lesson applies to us all…in everything we do…at all times of the day or night…whether some else is watching or not…when we feel like it, and when we don’t.

Faith is submitting every decision we make to God for approval, trusting that He always has our best interest, or someone else’s, in mind, while listening for the Voice from behind, ready to safely lead us through life.

Not always, yet sometimes, life hangs in the balance. Wouldn’t it be better to be sure?

Prayer

“Father, guide my steps today and every day, as I bring each day’s choices to You for wisdom and guidance. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

The Wind and the Waves

He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he … rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.

Matthew 8:26

The sky was pregnant with rain. In the next instant, it pounded on the metal roof of the ground floor room of the lighthouse. He was uneasy. Watching as the waves buffeted the side of the building, he sensed this was going to be a bad storm.

The salt spray beat against the windows as the wind whipped the waves into whitecaps. Though he was on dry land in a lighthouse that had stood the test of time, he was afraid.

It was then he noticed the smallish captain of a sixty-foot fishing vessel preparing to leave port. He ventured, “Aren’t those waves too big for your ship? I mean, isn’t it too dangerous to leave just now?!”

The captain took a sip of his coffee and said in the calmest of voices, “Son, those swells aren’t much. By the time we pass the break wall, they’ll be thirty footers.” There was a gleam in his eyes that made the man wonder if he’d taken leave of his senses. “I’ve faced much rougher weather at sea; we’ll be just fine.” The perfect picture of peace with a calmness about him, the captain finished his coffee, nodded at the man, and headed for his ship.

†

Jesus was sleeping right up until the disciples, in fear for their lives, awakened him. He rebuked the winds and the waves, and then he rebuked them. “Why are you so afraid?” Can you hear them? “What? Are you crazy? Look at the situation we’re in!” Seasoned fishermen are used to rough weather. So this was one bad storm.

In an instant, the storm subsides. Awestruck, they asked, “Who is this man that even the wind and waves obey him?” They were to discover that peace is not dependent upon circumstances, but upon Whom our faith rests. Like the captain in today’s story, they knew the One who calms the storm in each of us and tells the wind and the waves, “Be still.”

Prayer

“Please still the storm in my soul, Lord. Help me weather this battle; help me trust that You will never allow me to drown under the burdens of life. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Love Your Neighbor

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

Colossians 3:12

It was close to midnight and raining hard when they passed the transient as he walked along the side of the road. He blended in to his surroundings, due to being soaked. They had seen him before and knew he was headed for the bridge just ahead. He would spend the night there, tucked in under the bridge, above the river. Hurrying on to the little town just across the bridge, he dropped off his wife and quickly gathered a few items. Back across the bridge, he found the man just reaching the point where he usually dropped off, into the underworld he preferred. Pulling up and rolling down the window, the driver asked if there was anything he could do? The man shyly declined and began to step over the guardrail. The urgency in the drivers voice stopped him, and the rain-soaked man turned, saying, “I could use a little bit to eat if you’ve got something.” Asking him to get in, they headed for the driver’s home, where he and his wife shared conversation and a meal with the man. Finished eating he declined lodging. He was given dry clothes and the offer of a shower. Eagerly accepting the backpack and umbrella and excusing himself, he left the house, opening the umbrella, and walked down the hill toward the bridge.

Neither the driver nor his wife would ever forget the broken-toothed grin that was shyly given in response to the love they had shared with this child of God as he walked out of their lives.

†

Blessings beyond our wildest imagination are both given and received when we step outside our comfort zone in an effort to treat others with respect. We are given opportunities to minister in difficult circumstances. It is God’s desire that we take the time to let our hearts express the kindness and compassion He inherently gave us. We don’t know what their act of kindness did for that man on that rainy night, but we rest in the knowledge that God never leaves seeds unwatered.

Prayer

“Father, please make me an instrument of Your love. Teach me to give of my time as well as my finances. Help me recognize the opportunities for what they really are, Your test of my love for You. In Jesus name, Amen.”

Granddad’s Treasure Chest

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Matthew 6:19

As Tom brushed dirt from the miniature treasure chest, he was transported fifteen years back through time to the day he and his Granddad had buried it in the backyard of the family farm. Granddad had said, “Tom, there are only a few things really important in life: the love of family, the feel of a good book in your hands, and most of all, the love and faithfulness of God. Without the latter, the others don’t have any significance.” Throwing dirt over the chest, he had said, “Let’s dig it up on your twentieth birthday and weigh the importance of the things we’re burying today.”

As Tom opened the chest, he couldn’t suppress a sob; he wished Granddad were here to do this with him. The first item he uncov­ered was the medal Granddad had received for service to his country. Next was an old pair of Granddad’s eyeglasses; Tom had always liked them and thought he might need them in the future. There was an old report card, a few old coins, and a pack of baseball cards. The last item Tom pulled from the chest was a pocket-sized Bible. It had been the first item Granddad had placed in the chest.

Tom remembered what his Granddad had said when he’d placed that little Bible in the chest. “Son, everything we have placed in here will have a price placed on it when you dig it up, all except this one; this little Bible is priceless. The words of this book will sustain you when all these other things are gone. Never place a higher value on the things of this world than you do the Word of God. If you trust in God, you’ll never be alone, never be poor, and never be lost.” Tom smiled. He had adhered to his Granddad’s faith.

†

We pay a lot of attention and devote much, if not most, of our time to the things we cherish, placing great value on them. But where do our priorities rank in light of eternity? Are they ‘cherishables’ or ‘perishables’? Are they things of God…or things of the world? If they are perishables we need to reconsider our priorities. Our heart and eternal future hangs in the balance.  

Prayer

“Lord Jesus, I want my heart to be in heaven. Help me live for You here so that I can live with You there. Amen.”

The Spotlight

You are the God who performs miracles; you display your power among the peoples.

Psalm 77:14

The officer listened as the radio dispatch reported a westbound motorist in the eastbound lanes of the interstate he was patrolling. The driver was traveling in the wrong direction at a high rate of speed, heading toward his position. Enter­ing the westbound lanes, he turned on his spotlight, hoping to alert eastbound drivers to the danger while systematically looking for the wrong-way vehicle. Radio reports told him that he was ahead of the vehicle, so he slowed down.

Scanning back in the direction the vehicle was coming from, he spotted the car’s headlights, a stark contrast among the taillights in that lane. He could see motorists taking evasive action to avoid the oncoming car.

As the vehicle approached, he matched its speed, shining his spotlight on the driver-side window in hopes of getting the driver’s attention. Finally, the driver responded and pulled over. As two other cruisers pulled up, he turned off the spotlight.

Just as the light winked out, he remembered the repair order he’d issued on this car two weeks before for a broken spotlight. Trying the spotlight once again, it failed to work. Exiting the cruiser, he used his flashlight to illuminate the spotlight. He noticed the same broken bulb from two weeks ago lying at the bottom of the lens. The repairs had not been completed!

†

There are those who question whether God still performs miracles. Some feel the need to explain how things happen.

Whether you believe this story or not will be determined by Who you per­ceive God to be. By explaining how things happen, we maintain a false sense of control over them. If we are unable to explain the how of events, we are then required to believe by faith.

God continually displayed His power among the nation of Israel during the exodus, yet they continued to rebel because miracles themselves do not ensure belief.

The story above is true. Events are related exactly as they happened. God is big enough to make a broken spotlight work. He leaves the belief part up to us.

Prayer

“Teach us to have faith, Lord. And forgive us for our doubt. It’s not always so easy to believe without seeing. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Splendor of the Son

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.

Matthew 11:28–30

The rain sounded so relaxing with a cadence that lulled you into restful slum­ber. It fell all through the night. In the early morning hours, when the tem­perature was at its most frigid point, layer upon layer of ice formed, causing tree branches to bow down, almost touching the ground. As the sun rose over the horizon, the boughs glistened with dazzling beauty. And although the rays of sunshine continued to dance on the frozen limbs, the temperature remained at the freezing point.

Some branches that had been shielded from the full cascade of rain began to gently ease upward as droplets of water fell from their grasp. Some remained bent and looked as though they longed for relief.

Unfortunately, the early morning sun hadn’t reached many of the heavier, ice-laden branches, and they snapped, broken and lifeless—branches that had glistened in the splendor of the sun, branches that wished to grow, but could no longer bear the strain of the weight.

†

What a tremendous waste that so many trees would be destroyed because they weren’t strong enough to bear the additional load. And so it is with us as the wounds and disappointments accumulate, causing unbearable strain because, due to embarrassment and pride, we cut ourselves off from the critical help we need. We pridefully believe that no one else could ever understand. And so the wounds continue to build, weighing heavily on us, our emotional and spiritual stability ready to break at any moment. If we refuse to share our pain, it will eventually consume us.

Jesus never meant for us to carry such burdens alone, and we should never allow them to cling to us until they gradually overwhelm us. Unlike the tree, we need not be broken. We can be wonderfully wholehearted, overcoming the seemingly insurmountable pressures of life if we turn to Jesus. Jesus wants to carry our burdens so that through His efforts we will reflect the splendor of the Son.

Prayer

“Jesus, thank you for giving me rest. Help me learn how to give you all my burdens, both great and small, so the things of this world don’t overtake me. Amen.”

Stewards of Our Wounds

So that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.

2 Corinthians 1:4

Wayne shared with the group about the heartache of losing his wife, Janice, to cancer four years ago. He spoke about her unfailing love for Jesus Christ and how that had translated into their marriage. He spoke of how God had held them both while they walked out that long, difficult journey and how God had comforted him since her death.

Janice never missed an opportunity in her many hospital stays to reveal the love of God to anyone who would listen. She spoke of His faithfulness and promises. Nurses and doctors alike came to know the Source of this little woman’s strength and how she leaned on that Source alone for her answers. She trusted God to do what was best for her and her family as they worked out the details of life with a faith that would not be shaken.

As Wayne closed, he could sense healing taking place in the room. God was using his wounds to minister to others. They were experiencing what he and Janice had gone through. He could feel the Holy Spirit’s approval.

†

Each of us has a story to tell. Each of us has something to offer because we have all been wounded to the point of great grief. Some are in the midst of the pain; others have weathered the storm and are beginning to rise above the heartache; still others have determined to be good stewards of their wound for kingdom purposes. They have learned that by sharing their experience, others receive peace and healing.

The Holy Spirit compels us to comfort our brothers and sisters, not only believers but also anyone in need. In that moment, we have a choice: to reach out and share the healing of our wound in order to bring understanding and healing to those in pain or to hoard the gift so freely given. Today’s text says that God comforted us for a reason. 

Prayer

“God of peace and healing, help me help others who are going through what You have given me victory over. Give me opportunities and courage to let the Spirit move in my life. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Living the Memories

For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day.

1 Corinthians 15:3, 4

It was as if he had found a great treasure. As he lifted the lid on the trunk, he was taken by a boyish excitement. He had no idea what he would find. Pulling away the sheet covering the items in the trunk, he gently began lifting each one reverently from its resting place. Greg felt his pulse quicken, and he couldn’t wait to learn what secrets would emerge. A waffle iron Gramma had used still shined as though it were brand-new.

Memories of visiting Gramma’s apartment down the block came flooding back; he’d been but a child. Gramma would fix him waffles and tea for breakfast. Tea was a staple of every meal, especially at 4:00 p.m. since Gramma had been born in Great Britain.

As Greg lifted each item from the trunk, a new and special memory came with it. After several hours of reminiscing, he replaced each item to its resting place and closed the lid. How precious are the memories of living. Though the items would perish, the memories would last forever.

†

Memories are passed in many ways, all of which are meant to impart something of value. As Greg spent those hours in fond remembrance of his grandmother, he could vividly recall the events as they had unfolded because he was actually there for many of them. As it stirs our heart to read about Greg’s joy in reliving the events that shaped his life, we get a better understanding that we have the privilege of reliving much of Jesus’ life and death through Scripture. We have been given eyewitness testimony from those who were there! These are not bedtime stories—although it is a good time to read them to our children—but true-life events in our Savior’s life. He invites us to read ourselves into the storyline.

Prayer

“We thank you for the written record of Your life, Lord. Enlighten our hearts as we open the Word so that we may feel some of what the disciples felt so we may feel alive in the memories. Amen.”

Wounded in Battle

Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.

Colossians 3:13

Kim knew Toby was furious, so she kept silent for the moment.

“That really ticks me off!” he proclaimed as he climbed in the car. “I’ve half a mind to go back there and … ” He let his words trail off.

Toby was responding like most of us have when we’ve been wounded by a brother or sister in Christ; he’d smiled on the outside, saying it’s no big deal while a fire smoldered inside, kindling resentment and threatening to choke out all reason.

His countenance was anything but spiritual. But the farther he got from the moment, the clearer he heard God’s voice. “Do you think I missed what happened? I know how much what Tim did hurt you.” Then he felt God ask, “Who would benefit from you responding in anger? Your battle is not against Tim.” He knew this was true, but the wound was so fresh that he didn’t want to accept it. “You can refuse to follow Satan’s plan,” God said. “Have you never been guilty of doing what was done to you?” God asked. Ouch, that hurts, Toby thought silently.

Toby looked at Kim and said, “It’s so much easier to be forgiven than it is to extend forgiveness.”

†

All of us, without exception, will be wounded in or by the church. It’s impossible to put that many people together and not have casualties.

In the moments immediately following the wounding, we are faced with choices: to strike out in pain and anger, to simmer in bitterness until it interrupts communication between us and God. We can spread vicious rumors, slandering the one who hurt us or act self-righteous as though nothing happened, allowing ourselves to carry the wound into the future where it will affect everything we do.

Or we can take it to God, asking Him to help us do what we cannot do on our own: forgive them as God, through Jesus, forgave us.

Prayer

“God of mercy and grace, You have forgiven us so much. Show us how to forgive when it’s so hard. Be close right now because we can’t do this alone. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

A Moment Away

Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples.

Acts 9:1

Ben had lived a rough life. As a matter of fact, he was still living a rough life.

Six feet two inches tall, two hundred forty pounds of solid muscle, Ben was an oil-field roustabout, making his living wrestling thirty-foot joints of steel pipe and pumping oil wells in the dead middle of winter. He was strong and seasoned. He was also opinionated as far as things related to the God of the Bible. Quick witted, he always made a derogatory comment when anyone mentioned God or Jesus, saying things like, “God is an excuse for weak people who can’t make it on their own!”

A friend once asked Ben what he thought he might say to God when he found himself standing before him on the day of his death. He contemptuously answered, “Why, I’m gonna ask Him, ‘Where’s the best fishin’ hole?’” Continu­ing to pray, this friend never gave up on Ben. He constantly spoke to Ben about God’s love, praying God would draw him into a saving relationship, perhaps on his own road to Damascus, like Saul. And after thirty years of witnessing, and interceding on Ben’s behalf, on a warm summer’s morning Ben invited Jesus into his heart!

†

At times we may be tempted to give up on those who seem to have too rough an exterior toward the things of God. Tired of their rhetoric, we’re tempted to distance ourselves from their unseemly actions.

Saul’s story gives us hope. One moment he was cursing the kingdom, the next he was serving the King. Not everyone who rails against God, breathing murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples, will be changed. But we are not to give up on them. They might be a moment away from nearing their Damascus.

Do you know someone like Ben? If so, ask God for another measure of the grace you were saved by and then extend it to the Ben God placed in your life.

Prayer

“God of grace, give us strength. Show us what the hard cases of life look like to You. Grant us wisdom to know what to say and then give us the courage to speak in love. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

The Wounds of a Friend

Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.

Proverbs 27:6

As Kevin sat at the bar kindling a conversation with the girl beside him, he noticed Nathan come through the front door. Just great, he thought through his alcohol-tainted brain. Now I get to listen to Nathan’s fidelity sermon.

Nathan moved up beside Kevin and spoke just loud enough for Kevin and the girl to hear. “Hey, Kev. Missy was kinda wonderin’ what time you’d be home for dinner. She and the kids were hopin’ you’d take them to the movies later.”

Kevin watched his chance for a late-night rendezvous end as the girl got up and left. “What the hell do you think you’re doin’, Nate?” Kevin said heatedly, shoving Nathan against the bar.

“Kev, you’ll regret doin’ somethin’ stupid when you sober up. Come on. You know an affair won’t solve anything. Missy deserves better than this from you. All you’re gonna get from this kinda thing is trouble and heartache. The worst is that Missy and the kids’ll pay the heaviest price.” Nathan led Kevin to his car and drove him home, thankful that Kevin had not argued. It wasn’t the first time he’d opposed Kevin’s loose lifestyle. He hoped and prayed it would be the last.

†

True friends don’t sit idly by and allow us to throw our lives away. When we care enough to be involved in someone’s life, we have a responsibility to him. If we see him making mistakes that could harm him or others, we have a responsibility to intervene in love.

Nathan’s strength and wisdom had spoken truth through the alcohol’s hazy temptation. Only the faithfulness of a true friend had prevented Kevin from making a huge mistake. Out of all the men in the bar that night, many whom Kevin considered friends, only one had proven worthy of the definition. All, save one, thought his actions were acceptable.

True friends tell us the truth. Confronting a friend in love can be uncomfortable. But that discomfort is only temporary.

Prayer

“Lord, give me strength to be a true friend. Help me to never look the other way when a friend’s life is at stake. May You bless me with a friend as faithful as Jesus. Amen.”

The Web

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.

2 Corinthians 10:13

I watched as the wasp struggled to free itself from the web. The more he struggled, the more entangled he became. It began when the wasp spotted a fly stuck in the web, wings buzzing, franticly trying to escape. It seemed like such an easy meal. All the wasp had to do was kill a helpless fly. The moment he attacked, stinging the fly, the spider emerged from the funnel in the center of its web.

With the wasp’s attention focused on the fly, the spider quickly attached a slender thread of silk to the wasp’s leg. Trying to break free, the wasp’s movements actually managed to get him more entangled. As the wasp weakened, the spider returned from the funnel and spun a cocoon of silk around its helpless prey.

†

Like the spider in the story, Satan sets out to deceive his prey. The way he tempts us is always seductive. Although he cannot read our thoughts, he has seen enough of our poor choices to know how to tempt us. The truth is most sin feels good. But there are always consequences.

As in the wasp’s case, what Satan tempts us with will initially appear beneficial. He focuses our attention away from the things that ensnare us, hoping we will take the bait. The wasp saw nourishment and was lured into the web.

We must be on guard and remember that one poor choice can trap us in a revolving door scenario that appears to have no exit. Unlike the wasp’s confinement, our bonds can be broken.

As today’s text shows, there is always a way of escape. But we must choose to take it. When we enter in to a relationship with Jesus Christ, He will lead us to the way out.

Prayer

“Lord, please give me strength to resist temptation today. Help me relate to You in such a way today that I can see any temptation for what it is. Amen.”

Precious Time

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.

James 1:22

“Read the directions, Mikey!” Bruce hollered. “I can’t teach you everything. Some things you just have to figure out on your own!”

Mikey was a question-a-minute kid, and Bruce didn’t feel up to it right now. It had been a rough day, and all he wanted was to finish reading his devo­tions before dinner.

“Dad?” persisted Mikey.

“For God’s sake, Mikey! Stop asking me questions! I told you read the directions! Can’t you see I’m reading my Bible?”

Mikey saw. But what he heard was, “I don’t have time for you. What I’m doing is more important.”

Mere seconds after Bruce’s outburst, God spoke to his heart; “My Son is worth your time, so is yours.”

Bruce found Mikey sitting on the basement steps, rejection written all over his little face. In his hand was a broken piece of the model he’d been working on. “I’m so sorry, Mikey,” Bruce spoke softly. “I will always have time for you,” he said as he wrapped his arm around his son’s shoulders. “Can you forgive me for the hurtful things I said?”

Mikey’s bright smile and exuberant nod told Bruce this had been the right thing to do. The next few minutes invested in his son would be priceless!

†

Many times we allow our emotional and physical condition to reign over our spiritual lives. None of us are innocent. Thank God children are so resilient! But we can, and do, make the same mistakes with others we encounter on a daily basis.

The chance to touch hurting people as they pass through our lives is incal­culable. If slighted, they may not be as forgiving, and the moment may be lost. God asks us to live out the gospel, to give of ourselves—meaning time and possibly comfort—in an effort to raise others to a place they have never been, confident that Someone else has their best interest at heart.

Our actions speak what our words cannot. Whether listening to a wounded heart or assisting in a physical need, this scripture is a call to action.

Prayer

“In the beginning was the Word. Father, may the Word be found active and alive in me. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Left at the IGA

Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine … and go after the lost sheep until he finds it?

Luke 15:4

They were headed for the nursing home to visit Gramma. Sally, one of five girls, was asleep in the back seat when Momma stopped at the IGA. Living twenty-plus miles from the grocery store meant taking the opportunity to shop when it presented itself.

Awakening, Sally found the car empty. Getting out of the car, Sally entered the store undetected. Drawn to the shiny aluminum strip along the display cases in the cold-food section, Sally momentarily forgot her objective. The cool, variegated silver bar (at just the right level for a four-year-old) called to her, inviting her to run her fingernails against its irregular surface. Sally giggled as she ran to the meat case at the back of the store. From one end of the store to the other she went, fingernails gliding over the shiny, diamond-plated surface. It tickled her fingers!

As she turned to make her next pass, she could see up the long aisle and out the doors at the front of the store. She froze! Momma’s car was mov­ing! She was being left behind! She ran for the front of the store screaming, “Momma!” As she reached the doors, she was gently scooped off her little feet by a kindly woman. Comforting Sally and holding her close, she tenderly whispered, “Momma will be back, hon. Don’t you worry.” She knew the young mother would return. And sure enough, ten minutes later, through bullet-sized tears, Sally saw her Momma jump from her car, running, arms extended toward her.

†

Everything changed when Momma realized her child was nowhere to be found. Her purpose shifted from a visit to Gramma to a mission of finding her lost child.

Jesus feels the same way about those who have strayed from the flock. He will not rest until they are safe in the fold. Like Sally, we can become side­tracked by the things of this world. And like the kindly woman, Jesus will send one of His own to comfort and embrace the lost child until, through the tears, he sees Him coming. 

Prayer

“Thank You, Jesus, for always looking for us when we’re lost. Amen.”

T.J.’s Windmill

Listen, my sons, to a father’s instruction; pay attention and gain understanding.

Proverbs 4:1

T.J. was a Massey-Ferguson man himself. But he didn’t seem to mind his new six-foot windmill being John Deere green and yellow. The colors were a good contrast as it stood beside the American flag he displayed every day.

 When his grandson erected the windmill, placing it where T.J. could catch sight of it from his recliner in the living room, no one had any idea of the effect it would have on people’s lives.

T.J.’s house was situated in the bottom of a river valley running east to west, allowing the predominant westerly winds unbidden access to the windmill.

 Windy days were an event; not because watching the windmill itself was so interesting, but because something about that spinning windmill stirred T.J.’s memories, causing him to talk about the past. His ninety plus years spanned countless changes in our nation’s history. You never knew if you were going cotton picking in Mississippi, drilling oil wells in the hills of Ohio, or crossing Germany and France as a medical battalion aide during World War II. As a matter of fact, you could never be sure of what you were in for when the wind blew. But if you listened closely, there was wisdom, experience, and instruction to be gained.

†

Listening is an art form. Listening to the elderly is priceless. Unfortunately, many of our elderly are discarded as senile and troublesome, despite the fact that their very presence proclaims they have yet to complete their final earthly purpose.

There is an untapped wealth of knowledge and experience stored within the memories of our elder statesmen and women. Solomon instructs us to gain wisdom at our fathers’ knees, not view them as spent and of little use.

By refusing to listen to them, we forfeit invaluable assistance and under­standing. We label them of no value. This is foolish at best and at worst is complete arrogance.

They are not meant to merely mark off each day until they die. We should avail ourselves of such knowledge before it fades.

Prayer

“Teach us to respect our elders, Lord. Help us recognize the value of their memories and appreciate their minds. Show us how to treat them with the reverence they deserve and the respect You decree. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

He’s My Son!

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son.

John 3:16

Bob and Shari were concerned as they watched their eighteen-month-old son being wheeled toward the operating room. Knowing that he was in God’s hands the danger of open-heart surgery was still real, making the next three hours difficult to endure.

When the surgeon announced the procedure had been a complete success, Bob and Shari wept openly and unashamedly.

Their elation was short lived, however, replaced by the news that another child, whom they had come to know during their stay had died in surgery. They had grown close to the family, and this was an awful blow.

They sought out the parents and not knowing what to say, just hugged them and wept. Bob prayed for words that might ease their pain somewhat. In that moment, he felt God say, “I know how they feel. My Son also died when He didn’t deserve to. But because of My Son’s death, their son is with me! Tell them I love their son with the same love that sent my Son to the cross of Calvary.”

Through sobs, they listened to God’s message of love. Though nothing could truly ease their pain right now, Bob’s words brought the hope of a grand reunion in eternity.

†

One child lives, another dies. It’s unexplainable, unfair, and feels so wrong that we can’t put words to the pain. Too many parents have felt the sting of the premature death of a child.

Infant death is so hard and so immediate that it can’t possibly be right. God says, “I know what you are feeling, child. Mourn for awhile, then allow My joy to fill your spirit. My Son has overcome the grave. Once here, you will never be separated again!”

Death brings a crisis of faith; do we believe in eternal life? If so, we have this hope that if we believe in His Son we have eternal life! The Father says, “Believe in Jesus; He’s My Son!”

Prayer

“Thank You for Your love that is so much deeper than ours. Thank You that You know how our hearts ache in times of loss. Thank You for Your only Son! Amen.”

The Chair and Tuesdays

“I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.” Psalm 4:8

I had noticed the chair, but hadn’t asked about it. It sat just to the right of the headboard of her bed, close enough she could reach out and touch it. The story she shared was from her soul.

“That chair’s been sitting right there since 1984, that’s the year Bill died. I put it there so I could talk to him… I sure do miss him. I never really got over loosing him, you know. I was angry at God for awhile, especially about Tuesdays. It was a Tuesday when Bill died. The following Tuesday Bill’s best friend died. The week after that my dog died, and the week after that Mom had a stroke and died fourteen months later, on a Tuesday. I hate Tuesdays!”

She shared her pain with me that day, and I understood; we all have things we get angry at God about. Even the most god-fearing people get angry at God from time-to-time.

She finished by saying, “I’m not angry at God anymore, but I still hate Tuesdays! Now the chair is there so Me, Bill and God can all spend time, then they don’t feel so far away. I sure miss Bill.”

†

We have a God Who knows our pain; every wound of our heart. He knows every thought, too. So He’s not surprised when we finally admit that we’re mad at him for one reason or another.

He has enough love and patience to hear us out, walk beside us, or carry us when that’s necessary. He knows all our faults and waits us out, hoping our rebellion ends so He can lead us into deeper understanding.

His desire is that we bring Him the burdens we weren’t meant to carry.

He always meets us where we are… and accepts any advancement in His direction.

Prayer

Abba, please forgive me for my unrepentant anger. Help me want to give it all to You. Most times I struggle with forgiveness; I feel it’s my right to hang on to it. Help me understand what Jesus meant when he taught the Disciples, ‘and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.’ In Jesus name, Amen.”

The In-Between

I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received.

Ephesians 4:1

There were tears mixed with laughter at the dinner. There must have been three hundred people in attendance. All of them had come to share memories of the man they had laid to rest that morning.

He had not been a pillar of the community, nor was he well-known outside this circle. Yet his life and service had had a profound effect on the lives of those he’d touched. A philanthropist of sorts, he had given over seventy percent of his meager earnings to those in need. He’d held on loosely to what he had—it was his way of giving to the Lord. He never made it public, and would have denied any connection to the prosperity others enjoyed due to his generosity. He lived a simple life, in a simple home.

His wife had preceded him in death. He’d kept her memory alive by spending time doing things they’d done together; walking in the early morning dawn to watch the sunrise; or watching the eagles soar over the river-bottoms, so majestic and awe-inspiring. Simple, that was how he’d seen himself.  

Yet these people knew him for who he really was. He’d shared generously with each of them somewhere between the day of his birth and today. They each had a personal story of his benevolence—together, they represented his in-between.

†

Gravestones are etched with the deceased’s date of birth and date of death. Between them is a small dash. That simple dash represents the life they lived. It’s their ‘in-between’. And what happened during their ‘in-between’ is how they will be remembered.

Paul was adamant that we live an in-between Jesus would be proud of. And I can think of nothing more comforting for our loved-ones at the time of our death than to be left with an in-between that brings them happy, loving memories.  

We must be intentional in our commitment to live well. But with the Holy Spirit’s help we have the hope of achieving Paul’s instruction.

Prayer

“Spirit of God, lead me today. Show me how I might make a difference in the lives of those who need a special touch. Help me remain obscure at a time when my pride screams for recognition. Help me help others. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

Perfectly Unique Imperfections

But when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears.

1Corinthians 13:10

As the master-glassblower puffed gently, a small bulb appeared at the end of the forging tube. Working with quick, decisive motions, she rolled the six foot tube along a lintel while her apprentice held thick, wet newspaper under the glass, creating a more slender tube. A more forceful puff of air, and a larger bulb was created at the end of the tube. The apprentice now used a cup-shaped, cast-steel ladle to shape the vase as the forging tube continued to spin. Working in unison, one blowing and spinning the tube, the other handling the glass with different tools, they achieved the desired effect. Frequently, the entire work of art was placed back into the furnace for reheating. When asked why the glass was continually placed in the furnace she answered, “The glass has many imperfections. As we re-fire the glass we remove many, but not all of them. The remaining imperfections are what make each creation unique; it gives the piece more value.”

†

Until the day Jesus comes back for the Church, we will be imperfect. This does not translate into “useless”. In the same way the vase has great value, even though it is flawed, we too are of great value to God.

The trials of life refine us. God uses the Holy Spirit to influence our lives in one way, while He reveals truth to us in another. He places us into the forging fires to remove our imperfections. What is left is a less-flawed vessel.

As we walk through the fire we become a purer version of the person God means us to be. The Holy Spirit urges us while God directs us. Our refining yields the desired effect. As the forgings cool, we reflect a clearer image of the One Who is perfect in every way.

Prayer

“Please use me, Lord. I need to feel valuable. I want to make a difference in this life. Guide me through the refining fires so I reflect a better representation of Your image to those I meet along life’s path. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.”

“A Matter of Perspective”

For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, declares the LORD. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.

Isaiah 55:8-9

Through a clear and virtually cloudless sky, the jet banked hard left, preparing for final approach. Looking out the window, the businessman saw the hand, and heard the voice of God. There, below him, was a single, fluffy-white cloud. Centered on the cloud was a perfect, vibrantly-colored rainbow—not an arch as we see from the ground, but a perfect circle. And in the center of it all was the shadow of his plane, cast by the noonday sun.

In that moment God whispered, “This is My promise. There is no place that exists outside my love; no valley is below this circle, no mountain rises above it. There is no east, there is no west, there is only my love. This is My promise.”

There wasn’t time to snap a picture before the plane leveled out, but that didn’t matter, he would never forget the image. A sense of peace replaced his harried and stress-filled mind.

†

Following the Flood, God promised Noah to never again destroy the earth with water. His covenant was the first recorded rainbow, “I have set my bow in the cloud.” Never having witnessed one before, Noah must have been awe-struck!

In the fourth chapter of Revelation, John describes how God remembers that promise, “a rainbow resembling an emerald, encircling the Throne of God.” not arching above it, but encircling the throne; all encompassing and never-ending, just like God’s promises.

The image and the whisper through the window of that plane let the  businessman  know that God was aware of his life, and the problems he faced. From God’s perspective the things we deal with and witness each day are usually not what they appear to be, there is a purpose. God asks that we trust Him to work in our lives for that purpose.

Prayer

“Lord, I don’t look at things the way You do. Help me to see what You see as I look at the issues of my life. Help me to trust in Your promise.  In Jesus Name, amen.”

“Letters From Heaven”

…you are a letter from Christ…written not with ink but in the Spirit of the living God...

2Corinthians 3:3

They had just wrapped up the Sunday School lesson on being a good witness for Jesus, when one adult rose, and exited the classroom. A murmur immediately spread throughout the class, and one statement was heard above the rest: “Must have felt convicted!”

The teacher, knowing why the man had left, let the murmuring continue for a minute and then called the class to silence, “I asked John to leave the class without interruption, and without explaining himself.”

The class looked to each other with puzzled expressions. With no answer forthcoming, the teacher continued, “Uncomfortable as this is, it is a valuable lesson for us all. I don’t care who made what statements. I did this as an example of how we sometimes give false witness.

“There is always someone standing on the sidelines waiting to judge Christianity by its mistakes. The murmuring that followed John’s departure is a form of gossip. Several of us defamed John’s character unjustly. If a non-believer had been present they would have heard the family of God criticizing one of their own.” He paused, scanning each face, not wanting to single anyone out, yet not giving them room to escape the true conviction that had entered the room.

In closing, he simply stated, “We are each letters from Heaven, written in the Spirit of the living God. How would you like yours to read?”

†

It’s been said that many Christians are the only Bible some people will ever read. If that’s the case, what are those who are reading us getting from the Bible? Do we draw them toward a relationship with Jesus Christ, or do we confirm the cynicism of those who see Christianity as a hypocrites’ religion? 

Paul took responsibility for his witness. He also challenged those he was responsible for to witness well.

When we witness poorly it reflects not only on our walk with the Lord, it puts a black eye on the Source of our faith. We must be mindful of the statement we are making.

“Prayer”

“May the pages of my book be considerate and encouraging, Lord, drawing people into relationship with You, instead of driving them away. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Keeping Watch

Be on guard! Be alert! ...keep watch because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back…  If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping.

Mark 13:33, 35, 36

Tom watched as Warren grabbed his lunch pail and headed for the factory door following the ‘Shift’ whistle that signaled the end of the workday. That man definitely knows when quitting time is. What Tom didn’t know was that Warren worked a second job as shift supervisor at a warehouse across town. Appreciating Warren’s situation, and his work strong ethic, the owner of the warehouse allowed him to start his job a half hour later than normal. Having just thirty minutes to travel the ten miles between locations, Warren kept close track of time.

A second fact Tom wasn’t aware of was that the employees Warren supervised took advantage of his absence during their first half hour of work by lounging around in the break room. A couple of them brazenly used the time to take a nap.

So they were shocked when, today, Warren walked through the door fifteen minutes early, catching them lounging around instead of stocking orders!

Warren had suspected something of the kind and had made special arrangements to leave his factory job early to confirm his suspicions. The lazy employees were given a written notice and warned that any further abuse of company time would see them losing a week of work without pay.

†

Jesus’ words in today’s text are not a suggestion. He speaks them with the ring of warning…because being asleep at His return will cost us more than a written notice in our employment file. Unfortunately, most of us don’t think He’s coming before we lay our head on the pillow tonight.

Belief in Jesus’ warning is paramount to resisting the temptation to fall asleep spiritually. This truth can only be confirmed by being in relationship with the One Who spoke the words. So how do we remain spiritually alert when weariness threatens to shorten our attention span?  By keeping watch with Jesus each and every day. 

Prayer

“Holy Spirit, help me remain alert and watchful. I want to be wide awake when Jesus returns. Fan the candle of my heart into an eternal flame! In Jesus’ Name, amen.”

The Grape Juice Covenant

This cup is the new covenant in my blood.

1Corinthians 11:25

With three year old Diana busy at the breakfast table, Sandy headed to the sunroom where she began her morning exercises. Typically, Diana would eat breakfast, and then join Sandy for her version of ‘etsersize’. Sandy loved watching her bend and twist to the music. So full of life and energy, Diana never failed to provide moments of laughter and bring smiles to both their faces. It was mother-daughter time well-spent.  

So it was with surprise that a moment later Diana walked into the room with breakfast in hand. Oh no! Sandy thought.

In one hand Diana held a large piece of waffle…and in the other was the glass of grape juice she had insisted on filling to the brim. She held the glass up ceremoniously, its contents sloshing from side to side above the new carpet, and proudly proclaimed, “Look, Momma! This is the blood of Christ, like Pastor Marta said. Member?” And with that she dipped the waffle into the juice, emulating Pastor Marta’s actions during yesterday’s communion!

Instantly, the threat of a spill succumbed to a wonderful warmth coursing through Sandy’s spirit. Her heart swelling with gratitude, and hot tears welling in her eyes, Sandy asserted, “That’s right! Exactly like Pastor Marta, Honey! The blood of Christ!”

†

Our little children are pint-sized sponges, absorbing the world around them. Surveying the world from their knee-level perch, they frequently attempt to incorporate what they’ve learned into their daily lives. And although they might not completely understand the meaning and application of what they’ve witnessed, they grasp enough to form a partial construct. We need to, if at all possible, assist them in grasping the rest of the concept in simple terms.  

When they take these opportunities to share with us what they’ve learned, we like Sandy, need to take full advantage of the moment. Doing so fosters open communication.

By encouraging them to speak what’s on their hearts, we are giving them permission to share anything…anytime. That manner of relationship cultivates unhindered cooperation that will pay immeasurable dividends.

Prayer

“Lord, help me take full advantage of the waffle and grape juice moments in life. In Jesus’ Name, amen.”