A Grateful Prayer and a Thankful Heart!

“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 1:3-6

One of the traditions in my home during the Christmas season is to watch The Muppet Christmas Carol. At the end of the movie Scrooge sings a song called Thankful Heart, one line in the song especially stood out for me this year - in it Scrooge says he will end and begin each day with a “grateful prayer and a thankful heart.” As this year draws to a close I want say that I pray thanking God for each of you – because in some way throughout this year you have encouraged me through life’s storms and for that I am grateful.

It is the time of year when we look back over all that as occurred – the good and bad, the joy and sadness, and the trials and triumphs that we have faced. For all of it may we be grateful in our prayers for God’s marvelous provisions. May we have thankful hearts as we remember those who have walked this year’s journey with us.

As we look forward to the coming New Year – may we continue to lift one another up in prayer being grateful that we are members of the same royal family and that HE who began HIS work in us will be certain to complete it.

Life’s journey is better when traveled with amazing people like you. Yes as this year end I lift a grateful prayer, motivated by a very thankful heart for each of you. May God bless you greatly in the coming year.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for each person in my life who travels on this road of life along side me. Each one has encouraged me on the way. Thank you Lord that you made us for community and relationship with one another and with You. With a grateful and thankful heart I ask that you would bless each one in a new and amazing way. In Jesus’ name Amen.

Let's Get The Party Started!

“They will tell of the power of your awesome works, and I will proclaim your great deeds. They will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness.”
Psalm 145:6-7

We have taken the time to enter into all that this season has to offer. We have entered into the holiness, the joy, the sights and sounds, the reverence, the faith, the love, the hope, the peace, the salvation and the freedom that the birth of Jesus brings.

We have considered all that we have received when we accepted the Master gift givers Only Son and we concluded the Jesus is truly the gift that keeps on giving right into eternity and beyond.

We have taken our foot off of life’s gas pedal opting to travel at donkey speed so that we might truly enjoy the celebration of God’s light and word coming to our small corner of the universe.

And now it is time to really get the party started. It is time to enjoy our family and friends, the warmth of fellowship. It is time to enjoy with thankful hearts the abundant tables that will be laid before us as only a glimpse of the feast that will be prepared for us when Jesus returns once again to our small corner of the universe and we celebrate his second coming.

As we bask in the glow of all that this season of celebration truly means, may we carry all of it in our hearts every day and ponder it every chance we get.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for the amazing gift of your Son, He is the reason for our celebration. You have blessed us like no other can may we not ever forget it and my we cherish it in our hearts and reflect it in our lives well beyond the current celebration. In Jesus’ name Amen.

Turn Down the Stress

“But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.”
Luke 2:19

Let’s face it the holidays are a stressful time – shopping, traffic, crowds of people, getting Christmas cards done, throwing parties, attending parties, school programs and on and on – makes one tired and stressed just thinking about doesn’t it. How do we turn that stress down? I want to suggest that like Mary we take some time to get still and ponder.

The dictionary defines ponder as: to consider something deeply and thoroughly; meditate. Yes, meditate that is a good word too. As we race toward our celebrations of Christmas – let’s turn down the stress by pondering the wonder of the nativity, by meditating on the Christmas story as found in the Gospel of Luke.

If we turn down the stress by taking time to really enter into the story that changed the world, we will be better able to enjoy the celebration and we will feel better physically, emotionally and spiritually.

This holiday season are you trying to travel at the speed of light? Trying slowing down to the speed of a camel or better yet the speed of a donkey – a donkey that carried Mary to a Bethlehem manger where she gave birth to the Son of God.

A prayer
Father – We get so caught up in the rush of the season, that it can be hard to really enjoy the true reason for it. Help us this week to slow down, to like Mary treasure up and ponder Your goodness and generosity. Draw us unto Your story – the story of God with us. In Jesus’ name Amen.

The GIFT That Truly Keeps on Giving

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.
And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Isaiah 9:6

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). God gave the world the most extravagant gift that could ever be given. He gave his Son to pay our debt – a debt we could never pay ourselves. This by itself is reason enough to celebrate but what else do we receive when we accept THE GIFT of the SON?

We get: grace, mercy, joy, generosity, His life (Galatians 2:20), encouragement, all things (Romans 8:32), strength, authority (Matthew 10:1), power (Luke 9:1), wisdom (Acts 7:10), love , peace, comfort, knowledge, the right to be called children of God (John 1:12), purpose, protection, freedom, courage, one another, His kingdom, a new heart, a new mind and a new body… well eventually we get that – it’s something to look forward to.

But the part that makes God’s precious gift the gift that keeps on giving is that for those accept it they get eternal life (1 John 5:11). All of these things and eternity spent in the glorious light of the Master gift giver – who could imagine, ask or want more?

This year embrace the incredible gift you have already been given and then share your abundance with others by sharing the real reason for the season – Jesus the Christ.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for giving us the greatest gift – the gift that truly keeps on giving. Help us to fully embrace all that you have given us in addition to the gift of your Son and may we share that gift with others, not just at this time of year but all year long. In Jesus’ name Amen.

Enter Into...

“Those the LORD has rescued will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away.”
Isaiah 51:11

We have entered into the season of Advent, a time that we look back in preparation for celebrating the birth of the Lord Jesus. It is a time when we look forward and prepare our hearts for the day when He will come again. May this be a season of truly entering into…

Enter into – the holy moment when the angel Gabriel talked with the young peasant girl Mary about God’s plan and the part she would play in it.

Enter into - the joy Elizabeth and Mary shared.

Enter into - the amazing sights and sounds as the heavenly host proclaimed to the shepherds, that a king had been born, a king that would bring hope, peace, salvation and freedom to all men.

Enter into – the reverence as the Magi bowed down to worship this same king.

Enter into – the faith of Mary and Joseph, of Elizabeth, of the shepherds, of the Magi.

Enter into the faithfulness and love of God - A God who so desired to restore the relationship between Himself and His most favored creature, that He became like us.

This year as you celebrate Christmas truly enter into – the holiness, the joy, the amazing sights and sounds, the reverence. Enter into the faith, love, hope, peace, salvation and freedom.

Enter into – the real reason for the season… Jesus.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for giving us the greatest gift – the gift of Yourself in the form of Your Son. Help us to truly enter into this season and all that it holds for us. For those who are facing hard times during this season of celebration, may they experience in a new and powerful way the hope, peace, love and faith you have for them and all of us. In Jesus’ name Amen.

It's the Little Things

“…always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Ephesians 5:20

I was thinking today about all the little things that we are able to do, enjoy or receive daily – things we might not even think to be thankful about. Oh it’s easy to be thankful for the big stuff but today’s passage says we should be thankful for everything – even the most seemingly insignificant occurrences in our lives.

For instance today I am thankful that I got to see robins playing in the trees at the corner where I am a crossing guard. I am thankful for the opportunity to wave and smile at so many people from that same corner and that they smile and wave back. I’m thankful that throughout the day one of the furry creatures that share our home will come and keep me company as I work at the computer. I am thankful knowing that somewhere right now someone is praying for me.

What about you - what little things can you find to be thankful for – maybe there was that smile from a stranger at the grocery store when you weren’t having a good day? Maybe it was that perfect cup of coffee, hot chocolate or tea you enjoyed in the quiet of a chilly morning.

This week as you prepare to join with family and friends in fellowship around the bountiful feast provided by the Giver of every good thing – I encourage you to think about those small things you can be thankful for. I think you fill find that the cup of blessing you hold is truly overflowing.

May you be blessed beyond measure today and every day, by both the miraculous and the seemingly insignificant things of life. HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

A prayer
Father – Thank you for the many little blessing you send to us each day, even if we don’t always recognize them. Thank you for Your faithful provision. May we share from the overflow in ours this season of giving thanks and may we thank you always and for everything. In Jesus’ name Amen.

Believe This...Not That

“Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free”
John 8:32

I would hazard a guess that most of those reading this would say they are honest, that they don’t lie, but I wonder…do any of the following statements sound familiar?

I’m a failure and no good. I’m so lonely and miserable. I can’t lose weight. No one will ever love me. People will like me if I do what they want. It is wrong and un-Christian to think of my own needs.

Can you think of similar things you may be saying to yourself? These are all lies… we humans quite often lie to ourselves without even realizing it and we believe every word we tell ourselves, until we are emotional wrecks afraid to take chances or risk being hurt.

But what is the truth? What should we be telling ourselves instead so that we can be set free, from our lying self-talk, our depression, anger, anxiety, self-hate and fear? What about:

I am deeply loved by God so I am important. The Lord himself goes before me He will never leave me or forsake me. I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me. Jesus loves me so much that he laid down his life for me – I am of great worth. Scripture says “love your neighbor AS yourself” (Mark 12:31) it doesn’t say better than yourself it says as yourself.

This week take time to listen to what you are saying to yourself and if you catch yourself telling lies – replace those lies with the truth and as today’s verse says – you will be set free to be everything God intends for you to be.

A prayer
Father – Forgive us for the times when we lie to ourselves, cheapening the value You have given us. Help us to fill our minds with the truth that we are worthy, gifted, and lovable. Help us to encourage others to see the truth as well. Thank you for Your forgiveness and Your truth that is made clear to us through Your Son Jesus – it is in his name we pray, Amen.

Accept the Blessing

“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”
2 Corinthians 9:8

When I brought my mom home from the hospital following her surgery we discovered that the T.V. fairy had been then and left a beautiful new flat screen television in her T.V. cabinet hooked up and ready to go. Ok… I don’t really believe in T.V. fairies but since no one is taking credit for its appearance it makes a good story. She spent the rest of the evening trying to figure out who got it for her. I just kept saying “accept the blessing”.

We serve an amazing God who can and wants to provide for us in so many ways and often times he uses the people around us to do so. But we humans often miss out on the abundant blessing God has for us because we think we are self-sufficient and don’t want to accept things from other people – not even a compliment.

Here’s the thing about God – He wants to be in a two-way relationship with us. He has the resources of the universe at His command. He holds the gifts of salvation and eternity out for us – but we have to accept them. He places others gifts and provisions in the hands of His servants and they hold them out to us – again we have to accept them. I’ve said it before, so I’ll say it again – when we fail to graciously accept the blessings being offered by God and those around us, not only do we lose out – but we deny God and that other person their blessing too.

So this week if someone offers to do something for you, supply a need or just compliment you just accept the blessing. You will be glad you did – plus you will make that person and God smile.

A prayer
Father – Forgive us for thinking that we don’t need others to help us or when we take that help grudgingly because of our pride and self-sufficient attitudes. This week and every week help us to accept the blessings you give. Also help us be obedient when You call us to be the bearers of those blessings to others. Thank you for the greatest blessing ever – Your Son Jesus – it is in his name we pray, Amen.

Strength and Courage

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9

On the eve of what could rightly be called an invasion of the promise land God talked to the new leader of the Hebrew people. God gives Joshua his orders, commanding him to be strong and courageous, not to be afraid or discouraged. Promising Joshua that he was not going into the unknown alone “for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go”.

As I write this my mom is preparing for surgery to remove a large portion of one of her kidneys. A friend is contemplating a different kind of surgery and several friends are dealing with either ailing spouses or parents. These kinds of things can zap our strength and fill us with fear if we let them.

Imagine Joshua’s situation – the newly appointed leader of a bunch of less than faithful or cooperative people, standing on the banks of the Jordan River with divine orders to cross over and take the land, by force. That is certainly something that might cause the best of leaders to hesitate and yet God repeatedly tells Joshua to be strong and courageous for I will be with you.

We do not have to face anything alone even if we seem to be all by ourselves. God is there beside us… encouraging us to stand tall, to use the gifts He’s given us, commanding us to rely on Him when we feel our strength and courage waning in the battle.

Each day we wake to a world of unknowns but we do not enter the fray alone – God will be with us wherever the day takes us. So be strong and courageous and we like Joshua will gain the victory because the God of the universe is right there with us.

A prayer
Father – Today and throughout the week be our strength when we grow weary and weak. Be our courage when fear threatens to overtake us. Because of Your great love for us we can know that we are not alone and can find peace in You even in the midst of the battle. May Your Holy Spirit be our constant companion. In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen.

Path to Contentment

“Jesus answered her, ‘If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.’”
John 4:10

Meet Abraham Maslow – he developed what has become known as the Hierarchy of Needs – physical, security, love, purpose and self actualization. The first four are the basic needs of all humans. Maslow and most psychologists would say that these four needs must be met in order to get to self actualization. Simply put our basic needs must be met in order for us to be complete, selfless and content people. It is how we go about having those needs mee that get us into trouble – not necessarily because we are doing bad things, but because we are depending on the wrong things.

As citizens of the Western world most of us have our physical needs met – so we strive for significance and security. Fancy houses and cars, high paying jobs, promotions, praise, adoring spouses and approval from others are the things that many of us believe will meet our need for significance and security. But the truth is none of those things can meet those needs consistently. Ladies your husbands are not intended to meet all of your needs – Men same goes for your wives. Money does not make us significant. Perfection according to the world will not make us secure. Depending on the wrong things according to some psychologists can well – make us crazy.

Meet Jesus Christ – that’s what the woman at the well did. The passage today isn’t really about water, although that is a basic need. Jesus is telling this woman and so us as well, that He and only He is able to meet all of our needs. If we are to become complete, selfless and content people – people who at our very core love God and others – we must depend on Jesus to meet our needs. Dr. Larry Crabb says “The truly well-adjusted person is one who depends on God alone to make him/her significant and secure.”

Now let me make it clear – having a nice house, a good paying job and fulfilling personal relationships are all good things, but they do not determine your worth. God determines your worth and He determined that you – yes you - were worth more than His Son’s life.

The path to contentment takes us straight to the heart of Jesus. Today find your worth in Him.

A prayer
Father – Because of Jesus, we are called daughters and sons of God – members of Your royal family. The stuff on this planet is for our enjoyment, not for determining our worth – help us to depend on the only One who can really meet all our needs and make us content. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Ahhh Peace

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33

Not long ago a friend who is in the midst of a major life storm shared how they woke early to the sound of a gentle rain falling. The sound made them sink deeper into the comfort of their bed and fall back to sleep. It was what I call an “ahhhh peace” moment.

What causes you to have an “ahhh peace” moment even in the midst of life’s struggles? Is it the sound of waves crashing on the shore? Is it the clean smell after a good rain? What about the majesty of the mountains? Have you ever been hoping for peace and found it in something unexpected? Peace came for me recently while driving on a back road from my town to my mom’s town when I was blessed to see a herd of Tulle Elk… beautiful creatures that while common to the area are not often seen.

Jesus makes clear two things – we will have trouble in this life and He has given us peace that can break through the clouds and just for a moment we stop and say “ahhh peace”. It is just enough to remind us that we serve an amazing God who loves us so much – that he does not mind sending a reminder that He is near and working in our lives.

This week may you get the “ahhh peace” moment you need to walk confidently in whatever you are facing. Oh and just in case you are wondering if you are sailing in smooth waters right now… God may use you to bring “ahhh peace” to someone else – so listen for Him.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for those “ahhh peace” moments You give us, that remind us you are near and that you know what we need. In those moments may we stop and give thanks for your amazing love and peace. In the name of Jesus, our peace giver Amen.

And One... And Two... And Stretch

“This is what the LORD says: ‘Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom or the strong man boast of his strength or the rich man boast of his riches, but let him who boasts boast about this: that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,’ declares the LORD.”
Jeremiah 9:23-24

How is your exercise plan going? Are you feeling strong and confident? How about your faith -are you exercising it? Are you feeling the strength and confidence of the LORD? Are you allowing Him to stretch you? Ok, I can hear the groans from here and mumbling about “having been stretched enough” - but have we really been stretched enough? Do we attempt to exercise kindness or justice or righteousness or generosity or understanding and love the way the Lord does?

When it comes to physical exercise stretching is important – it gets the muscles ready for work and helps to prevent injury as you do your workout. Our faith needs to be stretched too. We can choose to stretch it ourselves by studying God’s word, praying, loving and caring for one another and being obedient to His call. Sometimes though – like a good personal trainer God may decide we need some help with our faith stretches. His stretches may not be as comfortable as the ones we normally do – but the flexibility we gain will make us stronger in the long run.

Ok - so are you ready? And one… and two… and stretch…and stretch a little more – ok good. Now get out there and practice being Jesus to those around you – do the things that He would do. Show the world that you know and understand Him and what kinds of things delight him.

A prayer
Father – You know that most of us don’t exercise our bodies or our faith enough. Thank you for those times when you stretch us – we might not always like it, but we are better for it when You are done. This week help us to stretch ourselves by reflecting Your Son to the world around us and it is in His name we pray, Amen.

When You've Had A Hard Week

“Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.”
2 Corinthians 1:2-4

It had been a hard week – it was only Monday and it had already been filled with disappointment and struggle. That’s when I sat down to do some reading for school, that’s when I came across today’s passage in a book about pastoral counseling. I have to admit it was just what I needed to hear – I could feel the tension level lower as I was reminded that we serve a God of comfort and compassion.

As the week continued – my spirit seemed a bit lighter not because things got easier, but because I could feel the grace and peace of God along with his comfort flowing into my heart and mind. Then the words of encouragement started coming from people who care about me – what a difference a few words can make.

What kind of week did you have? What kind of week will we have? I can’t see beyond the moment that I am writing this – at least not clearly. But it doesn’t really matter does it – Jesus will be present with us, walking each step with us bringing us comfort and encouragement when we need it.

We can comfort one another because we have received comfort from our amazing God. Consider yourself reminded that you are not alone – we have God and each other.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for the peace, grace and comfort you give us. You already know what kind of week we will each have, grant us what we need to celebrate the victories and recover from the struggles. Bring us words of encouragement and help us to encourage others. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Hidden Object Game

“My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”
Colossians 2:2-3

I love hidden object games! I play them for the art, for the story and for their ability to focus my mind and sharpen my observation skills. Life can sometimes be like a hidden object game – God has hidden surprises and small miracles all around us. A flower blooming in an unexpected place, a rainbow appears when the conditions don’t seem to be right, a simple act of kindness changes your day. These are just some of the things we can find if we seek what God has for us.

His Word can also be like a hidden object game. It is filled with, as Paul says all the “treasures of wisdom and knowledge”. If we seek them, we will find them – if we seek Him we will find Him. Look carefully as you read His word, seek with your heart and your mind, go slowly because that bit of wisdom you need for the circumstance you face may be in an unexpected place. Tune your ears, for the encouragement you need may come from an unexpected source.

This week, search for the surprises God has for you, in the world around you and in His word. Seeking Him you will surely find Him and in so doing you will be encouraged by Him.

A prayer
Father – today and throughout this week focus our minds and sharpen our skills of observation so that we might be blessed by the wonders You have hidden for us and when we find them may we be encouraged and rejoice in for all the goodness you supply even in the midst of life’s trials. In the name of Jesus the source of all our hidden treasure, Amen.

Lessons From The Redwoods

“He will keep you strong to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.”
1 Corinthians 1:8

A couple hours drive in just about any direction from where I live in California and you can find yourself in the midst of a redwood forest. Richard Katz has this to say about these beautiful trees “with its ability to lift water to the heights of its crown, and support not only its own abundant life, but the life of many other species. With its ability to lift matter from the dark density of the earth into the uplifted light-filled heights, the Redwood is a celebration of the stature and majesty of physical incarnation and creation.” Isn’t that a great picture of God. Who through Jesus He lifts us out of the darkness and into His glorious light. But this is not the only lesson to be learned from these amazing trees.

Redwood trees appear to be as old as the planet; these masters of the forest can withstand fire, draught, flood, and just about any other trial that life on this planet can throw at them. Did you know, however, that they actually have very shallow roots, roots so shallow in fact that if they were another kind of tree the slightest wind might cause them to fall, so how does it stand for generations? The roots of redwood trees grow intertwined with one another – in essence they hold each other up. These trees teach us an important lesson in fellowship. We need to allow our lives to grow intertwined with one another and with Jesus. We need to be able to hold one another up when life gets tough, we need to celebrate together when life is good, we need to abide in the vine that is Jesus so we can become more like him each day.

If you have “redwoods” intertwined in your life – this week let them know how much you appreciate their fellowship and if you are a “redwood” to someone, let them know you are praying for them and that you are there no matter what. Scripture tells us that because of the creation around us we have no excuse not to know God… Redwoods are just a part of the amazing, teaching creation around us.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for the majestic redwood tree that teaches us about Jesus and about fellowship. Today may be show those are intertwined in our lives how much we appreciate them and may we stand ready to support them in times of trial or celebrate in times of blessing. Thank you also that we are called into fellowship with your Son and it is in His name we pray. Amen.

It Will Be Worth The Wait

“Then Naomi said, ‘wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens. For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today’”
Ruth 3:18

Life at times seems to be more difficult than is should be and waiting for things to get better can be hard – but the wait will be worth it. Naomi and Ruth had been through a lot together – they had lost their husbands, made a long road trip on foot, and now through Ruth they had made it known that they would very much like Boaz to redeem them… but they needed to wait just a little longer.

I know a number of you have been traveling a difficult road over these last days, months maybe longer and you are waiting for the change that is coming that will smooth the road and make traveling through life easier – at least for a while. I don’t know when that change will come but I know it will be worth the wait. God is working on His plan for you even if you cannot tell He is working. Hang on – you need to wait a little longer.

But what should we do while we wait? We should pray, praise and present ourselves available to serve others in some way. We should ask for eyes to see those around us who are traveling the or perhaps a more difficult road and then we should travel together for a while. It will make the waiting easier.

At the end of the story of Ruth, Boaz does indeed redeem her and Naomi and blesses Ruth with a son… a son who will grow up to have a son, whose family line will bring to the Hebrew people David and the world Jesus. None of us want to have difficult times, but if we wait – if we wait on the Lord…it will be worth the wait.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for redeeming us day by day. Help us to wait as You work on our behalf to bring us to the new place you have for us. We know it will be worth the wait, in the mean time draw us near to You through prayer and praise and help us to see those around us who are traveling the same road of waiting. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Take Time To Rest

“There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience.”
Hebrews 4:9-11

Labor Day is a day when we celebrate the contributions of the American worker to our society. We get the day off work, but do we rest? Do we even know what rest is anymore? Throughout the Bible God instructs his people to rest on a regular basis. In the Old Testament every seven years even the fields got to rest – this was done to keep the soil healthy, so crops would be good. We need to rest to we will be healthy, so we can do the things we are being called to and do them well. 

We are made to reflect the image of Jesus Christ and to do that we must do the things He did – and He rested. In Mark we read that Jesus said to his disciples “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest” (Mark 6:31). In today’s passage the writer tells us we need to set an example for others by resting. How are you doing at setting an example of rest?

Take time this week to really rest and to allow God to restore you so you can really accomplish the things He has for you to do. Be an example to those around you. Have a simple meal, be still and quiet before the Lord, take a nap – whatever you do rest. Your health will thank you for it and God will bless you because of it. 

A prayer
Father – Thank you for building into Your plan for living well, the need to rest. Show us what it really means to rest and be restored under your yoke. Help us to follow the example set by Your Son and may we in so doing be still and know You are God. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Did You See Him In The Storm?

“Without warning, a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying, ‘Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!’ He replied, ‘You of little faith, why are you so afraid?’ Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm. The men were amazed and asked, ‘What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!’”
Matthew 8:24-27

We face all sorts of storms in this life. Perhaps you live on the East Coast of the United States and just lived through hurricane Irene. Maybe, like many others you are in the storm of unemployment and financial worry. Possibly you are in the storm of a bad health report. Whatever kind of storm you find yourself in – have you seen HIM there in the midst of it with you?

Jesus and his guys were in the boat heading home after long a day of ministering to the crowds, when their storm came up and the guys were scared – some of these guys used to be fishermen so you wouldn’t think they would panic – but they did and Jesus being asleep in the boat didn’t seem to bring them any peace. It didn’t seem to matter that they had watched Him all day as he healed the sick and drove out demons - they didn’t see Him in the storm. They didn’t see Him until they woke Him up. Jesus had been there the whole time; there was no real need to fear.

Did you notice in today’s passage the winds and waves were not the only ones to be rebuked? There are times, I think when God recognizes the reality of the fears we have and then there are times when He says to us – why are you so afraid? Haven’t I been here the whole time? Haven’t you seen me work before?

Did you see Him - can you see Him even now as you read this? Jesus is there in whatever storm you are facing and He will either calm the storm or He will calm you – whichever He thinks is best. This week look for Him, you’ll find Him and be amazed.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for being with us in the storms of this life. Forgive us for the times we fear even though we know you are there. Lord we don’t like the storms that take our peace and cause doubts – so we ask that you either calm the storm or calm us. Thank you for loving us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Fear Not

“I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, ‘You are my servant’; I have chosen you and have not rejected you. So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.”
Isaiah 41:9-10

A quick glance at the news and we find plenty of scary stuff. We live in an uncertain world, a fallen world. There are things out there to frighten us – a bad medical diagnosis, world economics, unemployment, violence brought on by desperate people. I read a news story not long ago about a man who purposefully committed a crime so he would go to jail – because he was hungry and knew he’d be fed there.

The world we live in is a frightening place – yet over and over in Scripture we read “fear not”, “do not worry”, “I AM here with you”. In fact we see all three of those statements in today’s passage and on top of all that we read that we have been chosen. Chosen by the Creator of the universe, chosen by a God who loves us so much He willing died for us. HE is bigger than anything we are facing or think we are facing and He tells us to fear not.

What do you fear today? Do you fear that “C word” diagnosis, not finding a job, no money, the world outside your door? Do you worry about taking the step you believe God is calling you to take? He says “Fear not, do not worry, and trust Me.”

As you seek to trust Him, allow Him to remove all fear and worry. Take whatever step He is telling you to take and be filled with the peace that only He can give in times like these.

A prayer
Father – I know there are people out there who are dealing with fear and anxiety, I admit to having those feelings as well sometimes, but You are way more than capable of taking care of us. So we need not fear and worry. Today fill our lives with Your peace and may Your love cast out all fear. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Do You Know Who You Are?

“So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!”
2 Corinthians 5:16-17

For the past few weeks Dan and I have been watching an old television series on the computer. The show is called John Doe. The show is about a man who wakes up on an island off the coast of Washington state – he knows nothing personal about himself, hence the name John Doe. John, however, seems to know everything about everything else in the world – from the number of dimples on a golf ball to the complexities of neuroscience and more. He uses his skills to help the police solve crimes and all the while he is searching for himself – who he really is. Do you know who you are – really?

Our passage today gives us a hint – if we are in Christ we are new. Verse 20 of the same passage says we are ambassadors. In other places in scripture we are called heirs – heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ. In Ephesians we read that we are chosen and adopted as sons and daughters through Christ (Eph. 1:4-5) We also read that we are God’s workmanship (Eph. 2:10) Something God called very good way back in the beginning.

Because of this we are loved – we are treasured. In this we find ourselves and our purpose. We are to love others the way Christ loved us and as we love God and others we find our true selves. None of us who are in Christ Jesus are John or Jane Doe - HE knows our names, HE knows everything about us and HE calls us friend.

Do you know who you are? Seek Jesus and in so doing find the real you.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for choosing us, for making us new and for giving us purpose. Thank you for loving us just for who we are. Help us today and each day to know who we are in Christ and to live accordingly. Thank you for calling us brothers, sisters and friend. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Instructions for 21st Century Living - Be Different and Worship

“Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry… also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander and filthy language… Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience… And over all these virtues put on love… Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs…singing to God with gratitude in your hearts”
Colossians 3:5, 8, 12, 14, 16

There may be some who would say that Paul’s message to the Colossians has nothing to do with us, after some 2000 years we aren’t having orgies in the temple of some god we read about in Greek mythology. We – at least most of us – do not live under the brutal rule of a tyrant. We are much more civilized and self constrained, we are wiser and more tolerant. But is the world today really that different? There are some who do live under the rule of brutal tyrants. We may not be using our bodies to satisfy a Greek god or goddess – but isn’t using our bodies to satisfy the god of self just as bad or worse? If we are really more civilized, self constrained, wise and tolerant – why do we have an acknowledged law for the crime of road rage, why do children murder their parents because they don’t get their way? Why are the elderly among us disrespected and abused? No the world is not so different, the writer of Ecclesiastes says “What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun” (Eccl. 1:9 NIV). It would seem he was right. So the message Paul had for the Colossians can still be applied to our lives as Christians in the modern world. It is not easy to go against the current, swimming upstream while being enticed to take the easy way and worship the god of self. So, Paul tells us to be different and worship.

How will you be different and worship this week?

A prayer
Father – Thank you that when we accept Your Son Jesus as Lord and Savior, You offer us new clothes. Clothes that set us apart, that help us swim against the current of our world. Each day this week may Christ dwell among us richly so that we can be different and worship. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Worship - Forms Us

“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise – the fruit (emphasis mine) of lips that confess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”
Hebrews 13: 15, 16

As I sat and thought about this topic of worship and how is effects spiritual growth I couldn’t help but connect it to last week’s topic of abiding. Isn’t worship one of the ways that we abide in Christ?

We are to praise and do – Jesus in Matthew 4:10 says: “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only.’” – Praise and do.

We are commanded to love God with every fiber of our being and to love others – these two things are the goals of spiritual formation – when we love God and others selflessly are we not reflecting Jesus?

Richard Foster says: “Worship is the human response to the divine initiative” he goes on to say: “Worship is our response to the overtures of love from the Father”. How is worship defined? Dr. Michael Mitchell says “Worship is an act, not a style, form or approach; not determined by kind, or tempo of music, or behavior of the worshippers…” Worship is an act and yet it seems to be so much more than a mere act.

Worship does indeed take many forms both private and public - but should it not, with time become a driving force in our lives – a means of abiding so that we can grow to reflect Christ? Our spiritual formation is affected because worship causes us to draw near to the heart of God. “It is a breaking into the Shekinah (glory or radiance) of God, or better yet, being invaded by the Shekinah of God” – Richard Foster.

Worship is a means of opening ourselves, our hearts, our eyes, our ears, yes our whole being to the voice of God. We will learn what it is He wants each of us to do specifically and then out of our adoration and thankfulness we will, in obedience, act.

This week will you allow worship to work in you?

A prayer
Father – This week may we through worship experience a new depth of abiding in You. Help us to be open enough so that You can invade our lives in a new way. Thank you for everything that you do in our lives to assure us that You are there and that you love us. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Hang In There

“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
John 15:5

I really like the imagery of John 15 – Christ being the Vine and we believers the branches. The New International Version of the Bible uses the word: remain, while the New King James Version uses the word; abide – both of these words come from the Greek Meno. The richness of this word perhaps does best to describe this idea of remaining or abiding. One concordance I looked at divided the meaning into three areas: place, time and condition.

Place: Remain, abide – to sojourn, tarry – to continue to be present – to be held, kept, continually.

Time: To continue to be, not perish, to last and endure. Of persons, to survive, live

Condition: to remain as one, not to become another or different, to wait for, await one.

We are to become like Christ and we must live by Christ’s example – the way to do this is to stay near, stay connected. Branches - whether they are on a grape vine or a fruit tree are nothing without the vine or trunk. It is while so close, so connected that they are nourished and watered and can produce fruit.

For me abiding or remaining in Christ – is to be close enough to see how the root grows, to learn from the root how to grow in a way that reflects the root. To be connected in a permanent way so that I am nourished, renewed, strengthened and at times pruned so that I can continue be a reflection of the root. This means spending time among the other branches – working and learning together - just us and the Lord. It also means spending time just the branch and the vine – just me and the Lord so that I can drink deeply, so that my connection to the root can be strengthened. The result of being in the vine – of being in Christ should be the fruitfulness of my obedience to Him and my life being transformed into His image.

This week, spend time letting your life become intertwined with the Vine that is Jesus – remain, abide, meno. The fruit you produce as a result will change you and may change the world around you.

A prayer
Father – Thank you that you desire for us to tarry with you, to be deeply connected to You always. Thank you for those times when you “prune” us even though it may not be pleasant, it will make us more fruitful. As the branches may we more fully reflect the root that is Jesus. It is by His name we pray. Amen.

Do A Joy Dance!

“You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy,that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. LORD my God, I will praise you forever.
Psalm 30:11-12

Little things and not so little things can bring us joy in the midst of our trials. Great weather, the announcement of a wedding or a baby, taking a step to serve others, a trip to the shore or the mountains - these things are ways God clothes us in joy – they are reason to dance. That long awaited job, a visit from an old friend, peace in the valleys of life – these are also ways that God clothes us in joy – they are reason to dance.

David was coming out of a time of trial when this psalm was written – there would be other trials in his life, and in the midst of them as long as he stayed focused on God he would find peace and joy – he would find reason to dance. What are you facing today? A new trial, the continuation of an old one or perhaps you have reached a mountain top and are rejoicing in the amazing view as you look back over the valley you just came through. No matter where you find yourself today keep your eyes, your mind and your heart focused on Jesus and He will give you joy.

So today crank up the radio – read the Psalms of long ago and listen to the Psalms of today. Seek the joy of the Lord and dance! Dance with all your strength, with every fiber of your being. It will make your day; lessen your stress and make God smile.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for the things You use to clothes us with joy. Thank you that we can dance even in the midst of life’s trials. May we invite others to join us in the dance, especially if they don’t feel like dancing. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Where Is Your Center?

“As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love.”
John 15:9

Recently when I asked my daughter what she had learned a two week intensive acting workshop – she talked about finding the character’s center as being something she thought would be useful. That got me to thinking… there are lots of ways we can center our lives. We can center our lives on our intellect, on our self-sufficiency, on our work, on our sports, on lots of things – some good some not so good. But where should be we centering our lives? So I have been thinking about the importance of centering our lives the right way. What is the right way?

Jesus shows us what a centered life looks like. His center is his heart for the Father and for the people He came to serve. If we center our lives on Him then we will see the world as He sees it. We will see how much we are valued just for who we are, we will see how others should be valued just for who they are. Mother Teresa once said that she saw Jesus in the face of every destitute and sick person whom she served. Her life was centered on Jesus He was her motivation in everything she did. I believe in her worldly poverty she lived in extreme abundance. Like Jesus prayer played an important role in Mother Teresa’s life. It is in prayer, in this time of intimate communication that we can find our proper center as well.

This week think about where your life is centered – as followers of Christ I believe we should be centered on His heart. When we sit with Him in prayer we should see His heart reflecting on us and He should see His heart reflecting back. This week’s scripture speaks volumes – Jesus knew that His father loved Him completely – the Father loves us too. Jesus loved His disciples and indeed the whole of mankind because of the Father’s love. Jesus tells us to stay in His love. Stay in His love even when life is tough, even when we feel unlovable, even when we don’t want to love.

Stay centered on the heart of God and experience a whole new kind of abundance.

A prayer
Father – Help us to center our lives on You. Help us to value others the way you value us. As we spend time with you show us what a truly abundant life looks like. Thank you that Jesus loves us the way that You do. May we find joy and peace as we remain is His love. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Rainbow Reminder

“And God said, ‘This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come: I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth.’”
Genesis 9:12-16

A late June rain and some recent news stories had me thinking about Noah. There were the stories about the floods happening in parts the United States and a story about a man in the Netherlands who has built a full size ark, built to Biblical specs, sea worthy and filled with fake animals. Noah had found favor in God’s eyes all those generations ago and he and his family were protected from God’s wrath. God rewarded Noah’s faithfulness and obedience with a special gift – the very first rainbow! This rainbow also served as the symbol for a divine promise, the kind of promise that will not be broken. But what about now how does this apply to us now?

This life is full of storms and floods do come into our lives. Some floods of course are the too much water in the river sort but others are perhaps less obvious unless you are in the midst of it. The continued effects of the bad economy are definitely a storm and for some the flood is still rising. The losses of a loved one, an unexpected bad report from the doctor are also storms that can threaten to overwhelm us with the flood. I am sure you can think of other things – what storms are you facing? Are you keeping an eye on the rising water and looking to escape to higher ground? There is good news – I think Noah’s rainbow reaches through time and reminds us that God will not let us be overcome by life’s storms. Oh we may have to face them, but they will not destroy us.

I don’t know if you will see an actual rainbow today but the promise is there every day. Grab a hold of it and know that you will come through the storm, changed perhaps, but by the grace and love of God better for having made it through. May you have the rainbow reminder that you need today and anytime you face life’s storms.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for rainbows, for the reminder that they are of your love us. Protect us from the floods we face in our lives and fill us with the promise of your peace. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

Don't Worry... Be Joyful

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Romans 15:13

Recently I have been hearing radio spots from Kaiser Permanente that talk about how happy people are healthier people. They go on to suggest that doing nice things for others is what leads to happiness so they recommend doing random acts of kindness – like letting someone go ahead of you in line or paying the bridge toll for the person behind you. This all got me thinking if happiness makes us healthier what does joy do?

I have been taught that happiness is dependent on the circumstances we find ourselves in and how we “feel” about it. A change in circumstance and all of a sudden happiness is gone. On the other hand joy is a gift of God’s Holy Spirit – it is not dependent on circumstances but on relationship. When we trust in God He will daily fill us with joy even when we are not “feeling” it. I figure that if happiness is good for our health then joy must be even better.

Today and all this week for that matter do random acts of kindness – they will make you feel great and they will make the other person feel great too. In additional to all those good deeds seek to be filled with joy by spending time with God, by trusting Him, by putting your hope in Him. It will be like getting a double dose of everything that is good for your health – you’ll feel better physically, emotionally and spiritually. Don’t worry… be joyful.

A prayer
Father – Today my prayer is the same as Your servant Paul’s may You fill all who read this with joy and peace as they trust in you! May we overflow with hope by the power of Your Spirit. Thank you for joy even in the midst of our trials. In the name of Jesus our joy, Amen.

Stomp! Move! Dance!

“You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent. LORD my God, I will praise you forever.”
Psalms 3-:11-12

Let’s face it life is tough. We face situations that are stressful – work, relationships, finances, health and a multitude of other things that can get us down. These kinds of things make us ask “Why me Lord?” “Why now?” “Why, why, why?” and “When will it get better?” Have you been there, asking those questions? It’s ok to ask the questions, I would go so far as to say that it is even healthy for us to ask them. King David asked those questions and when he finally got the relief that the Lord had for him he celebrated. David danced a dance of victory.

The prophet Jeremiah talks about dancing in response to God provision too (See Jeremiah 31:12-14). I wonder if David and the others who have gone before us following God felt like dancing when finally it appeared as though things were getting better. I mean was it an automatic response or did they think about it first – especially if the situation wasn’t resolved in the way they wanted. Does that make sense? Then again perhaps that doesn’t matter and what is important is that they made the choice to celebrate God’s goodness.

Today, no matter what you are facing make a choice to celebrate God’s faithfulness, His goodness and His love – even if you are wondering how much longer do I have to wait for things to get better. Make the choice to celebrate and then… put on some great music and Stomp! Move! Dance! I am planning on having a party today and all week long because I know my God is planning something amazing for me. He is planning something amazing for you too – so get the party started early.

A prayer
Father – Thank you! Thank you for providing, for being faithful, for holding us when we cry and for being our strength when we are weak. Lord you know that we will face all sorts of situations each day some good, some not so – help us to find reason to celebrate and dance. In the name of Jesus the light of the world and our hearts, Amen.

Leap Into The Light

Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.
John 1:3-5

It is early in the morning as I write this, the room is dark the only light comes from the computer monitor I am watching as I type. A glance out the window reveals that the sky to the east is beginning to lighten – sunrise is coming and soon there will be plenty of light. Coming to faith in Jesus is kind of like this dark early morning. Before we meet Jesus our lives are surrounded by spiritual darkness, then someone introduces us or perhaps a life circumstance causes us to cry out to Jesus. In those early days the sky is just beginning to lighten – but Son rise is coming and we will be called upon to make a decision and to leap into the light.

In the opening verses of John’s Gospel he tells us that “Through him (that is Jesus) all things were made (this planet and all that is on, in and around it including us); without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” We live in a world that is slowly being overcome by darkness. Yet where the people of God are living out His decrees to love one another as He has loved us the darkness is pushed back and His radiant light allows us to see a glimpse of heaven.

How do we leap into the light and then magnify it so that it pushes back the darkness in our lives and in the lives of those around us? It is simple really – be kind and compassionate, be generous with your time, talent and money. If a friend is struggling don’t turn away because you think there is nothing you can do… simply being there may be the greatest gift. Take time to listen to those around you. These things will bring the light of Jesus to your life. By faith leap into the light of Jesus and watch the darkness in this world get pushed back as the Son rises.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for speaking light into existence and then for sending Jesus to bring light to our souls and our spirits. Help us to leap into that light, to be filled with it and then to share it with those around us, especially those struggling with life’s trials. In the name of Jesus the light of the world and our hearts, Amen.

Success in the Storm

“The warden paid no attention to anything under Joseph’s care, because the LORD was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did.”
Genesis 39:23

Joseph had been sold into slavery by his brothers and then found himself falsely accused and in prison – yet scripture makes it clear that he was still successful. What was the key to Joseph’s success? “Because the LORD was with him and gave him success.” Slavery and prison - that is a pretty big storm if you ask me and still it is possible to be successful. Joseph isn’t the only one in the Bible who found success in the midst of the storm because the LORD was with them. Noah survived the great flood, Daniel spent the night in the lion’s den, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego walked in the fire, the Israelites prospered even in captivity and Jesus was able to go to the cross and conquer death – all because the LORD was with them.

We all face some kind of storm – either the hazards of the weather or the struggles and trial of life. Whatever storm you are facing you too can find success if the LORD is with you. Now sleep well because of life’s storms? Invite the Lord into your bedtime ritual. Struggling financially? Invite Him into your budget. Been hurt by someone you love? Make sure the LORD is your wingman.

Take time this week to invite the LORD into every area of your life – if you are sinking in life’s storms look to Jesus. HE is walking on the water straight for you. When the LORD is with you – you will find success in the storm. Scripture proves it.

A prayer
Father – Thank you that what the world and circumstances means for harm You can turn to good. Be with us today and everyday so that like the heroes of our faith we to can find success in our storms. Thank you for being with us and for loving us. In the name of Jesus Amen.

The Price is Paid

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
1 Corinthians 6:19-20

Today as we celebrate Memorial Day and consider the price that has been paid for the freedom we enjoy may we give thanks to those who have gone before and for those who even now are sacrificing their lives in the name of freedom. Over 2000 years ago God took on the form of man to show us how to live in His kingdom of love, compassion and freedom. Then to ensure our citizenship in the kingdom Jesus paid the price for our sins – freeing us from the debt we owed and would never be able to pay ourselves. The apostles out of hearts thankful for the salvation bought by Christ also sacrificed their lives paying the price to spread the Good News so that all might know and accept the gift offered by Jesus.

The members of our armed forces and their families have throughout history also paid the price for freedom. We must never forget the sacrifices made on our behalf. Scripture says that because we were bought at a price – we are to honor God with our whole lives. In the world we live in today let us also honor the men and women who continue to pay the price of our freedom.

We have all heard that “Freedom isn’t free” The price of freedom is great and it is ultimately paid by a few. May we honor all who have gone before and those who are paying the price even now. The price is paid by soldiers in this world and the price that will allow you to enter the kingdom of God was paid by Jesus. Live lives worthy of the price that has been paid for you.

A prayer
Father – Thank you first and foremost for sending Your Son to pay the debt of our sin. May our live reflect the love, compassion and freedom of Your kingdom. Thank you also for the many men and women who have sacrificed their lives so that we can live now in freedom. Freedom that allows us to worship openly and without fear. May how we live today honor those who have paid that price. In the name of Jesus Amen.

Refuge of Joy

“But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.”
Psalm 5:11

The dictionary has several definitions for the word refuge. First, refuge is a shelter or protection from danger, trouble etc. Next, refuge is a place of shelter, protection or safety. The psalmist is talking about the refuge we can find in God and asks God to spread His protection over us. The psalmist also tells us that those who do seek God’s refuge and protection will find joy there as well – reason to rejoice.

We all know that life is not easy – we face trials and storms all the time. A friend dealing with cancer, the loss of a loved one, unemployment, natural disasters and relationships that are struggling are just some of the things we face in our world. Yet in the midst of all this we can find refuge in the One who created us and in that refuge there is joy to be had. Scripture often describes God’s protection as the wings of a protective bird – a mother hen or a majestic eagle. Beneath His wings we are safe even as the storm rages all around us – even as it rages in us to the very depths of our souls.

The last definition from the dictionary says this about the word refuge – anything to which one has recourse for aid, relief or escape. That sounds like my God – does it sound like yours? Today run to the Refuge of Joy and find the aid, relief or escape that you need for whatever you are facing.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for being our refuge, our shelter, our protection. May we rejoice within your protective embrace as we face the storms of life. In the name of Jesus Amen.

Unchanging

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
Hebrews 13:8

Comedian and singer Mark Lowry once said his favorite Bible verse was “and it came to pass”. The point he was trying to make was that no matter where you are and what you are facing the situation will change. If you are traveling on a smooth road – it will pass and be replaced by one filled with pot-holes. If you are in the midst of a storm – it will pass and sunny days will replace the clouds. Life is filled with changes, we cannot escape them. Some changes are easier to deal with – graduations, weddings, babies, new jobs – we like positive changes they are times for celebrations. Unfortunately other changes test our faith and cause us to question ourselves and God.

In the midst of daily change we have an unchanging God. The writer of the book of Hebrews tells us Jesus is the same yesterday, today and forever. Jesus never changes He is our solid footing when the road is rough. He rejoices with us when times are good. He holds us when our faith is wavering under the stresses of life. He challenges us to take a step into the unknown so we can become who He sees in us. His promises never fail. His words have stood the test of time.

No matter what you are facing today – it will pass. Change happens whether we want it to or not. It is good to know that Jesus never changes – He always loves us, will always provide, will always be there and will always have the victory over this life and that is reason enough to find joy in the midst of change.

Hang on to the One who is unchanging – He will see you though whatever comes to pass.

A prayer
Father – Thank you that in our unstable world you are the unchanging stability we can count on. May we seek you on the sunny days and on the stormy days of life. May we find joy just knowing that we are not alone – You are with us. Thank you for all You have been, are and will be in our lives. In the name of Jesus Amen.

I Wanna A Cookie!

“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”
James 1:12

Children know how to persevere, especially if they really want something – like a cookie for instance. Have you ever experienced that a child on a cookie mission? It goes something like this: “Can I have a cookie please? I wanna cookie please, I wanna a cookie, cookie… cookie… cookie” Eventually we all know the child will get the cookie because we adults just don’t have the stamina to keep saying no, we would rather just have the child be quiet already. We get like that with God sometimes don’t we? Some may say we are being impatient, while others will recognize our perseverance.

In today’s verse James tells us that if we persevere through the hard times we will be rewarded. In the story of the persistent widow found in Luke 18 we see this I wanna a cookie principle at work. The widow is not being treated fairly and keeps going to the judge demanding she receive her due – finally the judge gives in and she get what she desires. Yes it is true that we must wait on God’s timing but as we wait we are to be persistent in our prayers calling out day and night until we get what we need.

Most of the time I would consider myself a persistent person, I keep working at something until I have accomplished it. However, I have to admit that I am not good as asking more than once for something I need, especially from God. I just say I need… and when the answer I want is not forth coming I am quick to assume the answer is really no, instead of assuming the answer is a “not yet” or even a “how badly do you want it…will you keep asking?” Can you relate?

Are you going through something that needs an answer today, maybe needed an answer yesterday? I want to encourage you to be persistent in your conversations with the Lord and in asking for what you need – I know the answer is coming… I just don’t know when so stand firmly in His presence until you get it.

A prayer
Father – You know how impatient we can be and how we at times lack persistence and faith. Forgive us for our lack of faith as we face the trials of life. Grant us the strength to persevere when all we see is darkness before us. When we finally get our answer may we rejoice with everything that is in us for Your goodness and provision. In the name of Jesus Amen.

We Are Not Alone

“Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens.”
Psalm 68:19

A lot of people I know are having a hard time. Health issues are isolating some from friends and church. For others finances are being stretched to the breaking point. Still others are seeking jobs and can’t find them or just don’t know where the journey is taking them. All of this and much more that we see happening in our world can weigh heavy on us. These things cause us to struggle with what we believe and question God’s plan for us. I know I am walking the journey with you and I have the same kinds of concerns and questions.

It’s ok if we wonder and question - our God is big enough to handle whatever we lay before Him. In fact the Psalmist tells us God bears our burdens daily. Imagine that – many of us feel like we are about to be crushed by the burden we carry and yet God carries my burdens and he carries the burden of each one reading this. He is big enough and strong enough to carry our burden and us and not even feel the weight of it. All we need to do is to take a step each day.

In the book How People Grow by doctors Henry Cloud and John Townsend a story is related about a man who came to one of the authors for advice. This man felt he had clear direction from God about something he was supposed to do but didn’t know why he was supposed to do it or where the journey would take him. The author’s response was “Welcome to following God. All God tells us is the next step. Take that one, and the one after will appear, but not before.” Not an easy thing for us mortals who want all the answers and who when we slam into the walls of life would prefer to hide under a rock than attempt to climb over. But the key here is we don’t have to get over the wall on our own, God is carrying our pack and will give us a boost. Not only that but He puts people in our lives to help carry the load as well and to give us a boost as well – kind of like a human ladder set up on the firm foundation of God’s love for us.

Whatever you are facing today – you are not alone, we are not alone. Distance may separate some of us and the busyness of life makes it hard to connect. But we are not alone. We share this journey and God will carry the burden if we let Him.

A prayer
Father – May we praise you today because you can and will carry our burdens. Thank you that we are not alone, that there are others who know what we are going through and who are in small ways carrying the burden with us. Help us to not feel alone as we walk this road. May we feel the Your presence and the prayers of those who travel with us. In the name of Jesus Amen.

He Told Them... They Told Us

“The angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid, for I know you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.’”
Matthew 28:5-6

Have you ever wished that you had been there? Drinking the water that had been turned to wine, witnessing Lazarus walking from his tomb, in the crowd fed with a few loaves and some fish, on the mountain where Jesus met with Moses and Elijah, at the empty tomb on the first day of the week. Have you ever wondered they – the apostles and other disciples – they were there and they didn’t get it. The angel had to remind them that Jesus had told them what was going to happen. I have wished and wondered those things and then this thought occurred to me.

I wonder if the apostles and all the other heroes of faith are in heaven watching us and thinking. They – us that is us – they have all our stories; they know what happened and what will happen. They have experienced their own miracles, why don’t they get it? Why do they still doubt? Why do they have to be reminded what Jesus told them?

I began to think what is it that links us with them why even when we know the truth do we doubt, do we have to be reminded? From Noah to now we are all human, even when we know the plan we still have to make the journey one step at a time without being able to see the end. Our minds cannot truly comprehend the greatness of God and so we often suffer from a kind of spiritual Alzheimer’s. Noah knew the plan… but had never experienced rain, Abraham moved to a new land without knowing where he was really going. The disciples followed not clearly understanding what was happening and the Apostles helped to change the world not truly comprehending the effect they would have. We do our best to remember the stories but we too must walk by faith and not sight. We – like those who have gone before do not really understand all that we will do in the name of Jesus and we cannot see where we are going. So we like them doubt and need to be reminded.

Here is the best part – Jesus doesn’t mind sending us reminders because when the light goes on we worship authentically with our whole lives and the people around us are changed as well.

He is not here. He has risen – just as He said. HE is Risen indeed.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for the daily reminders that you have a plan, that You desire good things for Your people. Thank you for being patient with us when we doubt and grumble. Forgive our unbelief. Grant us the faith we need to take the next step – to stay the course, so that like those who have gone before we too will one day see Your face and fully understand. In the name of Jesus Amen.

Worship - The Best Lifestyle

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
Colossians 3:16-17

Sunday morning we enter into the church sanctuary, the band starts and we sing, clap or lift our hands in worship. Maybe we listen to Christian music on the radio as we do our errands – maybe we call this worship too. But worship is so much more than that. Worship should be the lifestyle of choice for every Christian and that is what should set us apart from everyone else.

Paul in his letter to the Colossian church wants them to understand that there is more to worship than the songs they sing, or the prayers they pray or even the reading of God’s word. Don’t misunderstand me all three are important aspects of worship – over and over in Scripture we see the importance of all three of these activities. But have you ever thought about your attitude as worship? Have you ever considered how you treat others as worship or not? Do you consider what you do for a living worship?

Jesus tells us that we are to love God and others. When we love one another that is worship and it lets God know we love Him. When we have attitudes of gratitude and humility we are living the lifestyle of worship. Being a good employee, who works with integrity, is also living the lifestyle of worship. I could go on and on about how every aspect of our lives can and should be a continual act of worship but I think you get the idea.
This week choose the lifestyle of worship – it will set you apart and I think you will come to believe that it really is the best lifestyle to live.

A prayer
Father – You alone are worthy of our praise and worship. May we give you that worship with our whole lives, with the attitudes we display, with how we treat one another, yes even in how we do our work. May whatever we do or say be an act of worship. Grant us what we need to live the best lifestyle – the lifestyle of worship. In the name of Jesus Amen.

Friends

“You are my friends if you do what I command. I know longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.”
John 15:14-15

Do you get that? Jesus – the incarnation of the One True God, the Creator of the universe, the King of kings, calls us friend. Sit with that for a moment, let it sink in – you and I are friends of God. He shares all that He knows about God with us – so we know God’s business.

Friendships are important to our well-being. Recently I got to spend some time with some “old” friends – we spent an afternoon celebrating the retirement of one of our gang. It was great to see people I hadn’t seen in a while and for all of us to greet one another with many hugs – being really glad to see one another after so many years.

Made a new friend also in the recent past – making new friends is also fun, you can never have too many people with you on the journey of life. Then there are far away friends – these are the friends you can’t wait to meet even if you have to wait until heaven to meet them. Friends help us get through the drama of life. They celebrate the good times with you and hold you in the bad times, they offer words of encouragement, condolence or they are just present in the moment with you.

Jesus, calls us friend and He is there celebrating the good, sharing in our pain and just being present in the moment with us.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for the friends we have both old and new. Thank you that we do not have to face this life alone that our friends are there to journey with us. Thank you that Your Son counts us among His friends – may we love one another the way that He loves us. Help us today to let our friends know just how much they mean to us. In the name of Jesus Amen.

HE Hears Your Cry

The LORD is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does. The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them.
Psalm 145:17-19

The drama of life can at times be overwhelming. Unexpected health problems, renewed unemployment, natural disasters and the list can go on and on. Yet the sun shines, the birds sing and life continues when perhaps we would like it to stop so we can get off and rest for a while before re-entering the battle. During these times it can seem like God is nowhere near, we sometimes wonder why? Why do I have to be sick, why can’t I find a job, why is there so much violence and suffering?

Jesus told us life would not be easy but that He would be with us. He hears us when we cry and He desires to give us good things. King David the writer of today’s verses could relate to the trials of life, He often cried out in his anguish to his GOD. The whole of Psalm 145 is David’s praise for a God who is faithful, a God who is near. Sometimes we need to draw nearer to him by reading His word, praying and fasting, and praising Him for all He has already done.

I don’t know what you may be facing today – important decisions, financial trouble, relationship issues or whatever – I do know that God is there waiting for you to call on him, when you do He will give you peace and will work out things out as He sees fit and in His time. He wants the best for you – stand on that promise today. I will be praying for you.

A prayer
Father – Sometimes the drama of life gets to be too much for us to handle. We need you to walk with us and hold us. May we seek you each and every day. Thank you for all You have done and all You will be doing in our lives. May we find rest in You. In the name of Jesus Amen.

Just A Glimpse

“He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I am making everything new!’ Then he said, ‘Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.’”
Revelation 21:5

Despite the recent rains I believe that spring has indeed arrived in my part of the world. The hills surrounding the valley are lush and green, the orchards are blooming, trees are getting leaves, birds that had left for winter are returning. The air smells fresh, the greens are vibrant and the sky seems extra blue now that the clouds have parted. Spring is newness it is just a glimpse of what will one day be. We live on an amazing world – yes, filled with struggles we would rather not have – but amazing just the same. While spring is arriving where I am - autumn is approaching where some of you are. You too are getting just a glimpse of what is happening to our world.

In today’s passage Jesus is telling us that one day everything will be new, He is not only going to restore our world and us to our original state – He is going to make us and the world even better.

Paul writing to the church at Corinth tells the followers of Christ that “Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known” (1 Corinthians 13:12). What Paul is saying is that we don’t have a clear picture of what our world can be or who we are in Christ but one day, one day we will. Until that day – God gives us glimpses of what it will be like. He gives us glimpses of who he has created us to be.
We see glimpses of our better selves in scenes from our world – a soldier sharing a candy bar with a child in a war torn country, a stranger giving a kidney so someone else can live, a hug when someone is hurting, a party when someone has been blessed. All of these things are glimpses of us become like Jesus.

Yes He will make all things new and until then find strength and hope in the glimpses He gives.

A prayer
Father – Thank you for the changing of the seasons that show us just a glimpse of your. Thank you for the times we catch a glimpse of the way we can really be as Your master creation. Help us to find strength and hope in these moments. Bless each one reading this today with just a glimpse of You. In the name of Jesus Amen.

Is It Time To Update Your GPS System?

“Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.”

Esther 4:16

Detours, detours and still more detours. Life it would seem in full of detours and that can upset the performance of your navigation system. I don’t really care much for detours although it appears my life will once again be taking an unexpected turn. To be honest I am feeling a bit lost – what about you? Are the detours in your life leaving your head spinning? If you have a GPS in your car or smart phone when you need to update all it takes is a push of a button and you are good to go - but how do you update the GPS of your life. God’s Word provides us with the key.

Esther’s life was certainly on a detour – from Jewish peasant to Queen of Persia and now she is faced with having to ask the king to do something to save her people. How did she get her course of action right? She called for prayer and fasting. She told her cousin Mordecai to call the people to fast and pray for her and that she and her staff would do the same.  Daniel - in another time and place also used prayer and fasting to maintain his GPS system. In fact throughout the Bible people who wanted to get back on track or stay on track used prayer and fasting because it gave them a better connection with the One who can see the entire journey.

Leading up to Easter a number of churches around the country are answering this call to fast and pray. I personally will be joining in on this call. I need my GPS updated and reset – I need clarity for the detours of life. I will be following the Daniel fast – fruits, vegetables and water. If you would like to gain clarity for you journey I encourage you to consider taking some time to pray and fast. It doesn’t have to be the same fast I’m doing but remember the purpose of whatever kind of fast you choose should be to grow closer to God.

If you are interested in the Daniel Fast you can find out more at this website www.daniel-fast.com.

A prayer

Father – Thank you for being our guide for this journey called life. We are sorry for the times we get off track. Give us the strength we need to seek Your face in a new way through Your update program of prayer and fasting. In the name of Jesus Amen.