Let's start off with the bible verse that burst through the fog of my brain this morning. 1 Cor.13:12 begins with the words, "We don't yet see things clearly." Well, in my case, you can say that again!
I love how it refers to a "weather change and the sun shines bright." And I can only add, it sure does!
In my experience having read through the bible so many times in so many years now, I may think I've squeezed everything there is to learn out of a single verse. But, that is a big mistake! God's light keeps right on shining and revealing and I keep right on learning.
Part of my personality is, unfortunately, to take affront with myself if I fail at any particular job. I carelessly "boast" I've been fired in several volunteer church jobs. Actually, I have no pride at all in this situation as it has cost me quite a lot of heartache. Now, I am very careful not to "wave at the crowd too early!" Yet, it was about this particular series of incidents that caused me to have a small revelation not too long ago. And it connects to the bible verse for today, for truth happens when the light reveals it!
Jerry and I read MY UTMOST FOR HIS HIGHEST, by Oswald Chambers every night just before we retire. This particular night we read about the Determination to Serve. It reads "Paul's idea of service was to pour his life out to the last drop for others. And whether he received praise or blame made no difference"....Paul's service was given because of "love for his Lord."
So, whether you are blamed or honored you have still served Jesus. And, also, what you learn from a blame experience will help you in the future and perhaps serve others with a lesson, as well. The text for that day went on to say, "No matter how badly others treat (you), they could never treat (you) as badly as Christ was treated (for you). Therefore, serve, others for His sake!"
This makes all my "failures" worthwhile and I rejoice in the new lessons yet to learn. All things are successes when learned through the light of Truth.
AMEN, I say.
Your friend, Jo
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Monday, February 25, 2013
THE PRODIGAL PARENTS
As we grow older, Jerry and I are aware of how much we miss our family in the North. We've lived in the warmer climate for about 17 years now, going back north at Christmastime and once each summer. But we miss our kids, our grandkids and now our little Great-grandgirl, Scarlet. We are missing out on so much and our bones still ache in whatever climate we live. So this new decision caused us to ask a real estate lady who knows this area well to come in and give us the news. "What is our property worth?" we asked her. It came up short of our hopes, so ...now what?
Do we forget about leaving? Will we be able to afford a nice, cozy place in which to spend our eighties? What does this mean to our plans? Our disappointment was showing and becoming fear.
Well, God speaks to me through His word, so I got my bible open to the pages assigned for Feb. 25. Mark 4:40 spoke of the disciples in the midst of a terrible storm on Lake Galilee, worried and afraid while Jesus slept in the bow of the boat. They awakened him and he reprimanded them, saying, "Why are you such cowards? Don't you have any faith at all?"
They were afraid, too, just as I was feeling. I'm afraid our house here won't sell quickly and for what we think we will need to buy another in the north. And I hear in my mind, "Don't you have any faith at all?"
Yes, I do! I have faith in Christ Jesus. I have faith in the will of God. The power of the Father and the Son is enough for me. But I don't have too much faith in myself. And it occurred to me...that's where I was looking, thinking, and imagining...within myself.
If this move is the will of God, the power of God is in place. And we won't need to worry ourselves about it at all. All we need to do is accept whatever He prepares for us and call those in the north and here in the desert and get the balls rolling, wherever and however those balls take us. God knows better how to play this "game" than we do, I'm thinking.
So, whatever we get for this house will be enough to find us another. So do we have faith? Yes, we do. Enough to move mountains. But I don't think we'll have to move any mountains, do you?
Whatever God sayeth, we'll say, "Thus sayeth the Lord!" And thank you, God, for faith in You.
I'll keep you posted! Jo
Do we forget about leaving? Will we be able to afford a nice, cozy place in which to spend our eighties? What does this mean to our plans? Our disappointment was showing and becoming fear.
Well, God speaks to me through His word, so I got my bible open to the pages assigned for Feb. 25. Mark 4:40 spoke of the disciples in the midst of a terrible storm on Lake Galilee, worried and afraid while Jesus slept in the bow of the boat. They awakened him and he reprimanded them, saying, "Why are you such cowards? Don't you have any faith at all?"
They were afraid, too, just as I was feeling. I'm afraid our house here won't sell quickly and for what we think we will need to buy another in the north. And I hear in my mind, "Don't you have any faith at all?"
Yes, I do! I have faith in Christ Jesus. I have faith in the will of God. The power of the Father and the Son is enough for me. But I don't have too much faith in myself. And it occurred to me...that's where I was looking, thinking, and imagining...within myself.
If this move is the will of God, the power of God is in place. And we won't need to worry ourselves about it at all. All we need to do is accept whatever He prepares for us and call those in the north and here in the desert and get the balls rolling, wherever and however those balls take us. God knows better how to play this "game" than we do, I'm thinking.
So, whatever we get for this house will be enough to find us another. So do we have faith? Yes, we do. Enough to move mountains. But I don't think we'll have to move any mountains, do you?
Whatever God sayeth, we'll say, "Thus sayeth the Lord!" And thank you, God, for faith in You.
I'll keep you posted! Jo
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
PAUL---GOD'S MAN
One of the most interesting stories in the book of Acts is the tragic ship-wreck Paul experienced on his way to Rome. Acts 27:30 tells us: " Some of the sailors tried to jump ship...Paul saw through their guise."
The ship met up with a horrendous wind and torrential rain. The men aboard feared for their lives and many attempted to escape. But Paul met with them and warned them that they must stay with the ship or all would perish. He explained that an angel had visited him assuring that all would be saved, but the ship would go down. Without any further information they trusted Paul.
To me, that fact is the most incredible of all. Yes, they all were saved, each finding his own way to the shores of a small island. Yes, the ship went down. And yes, they trusted Paul, an aging man who spoke of angels, and a God who walked the earth, and was under arrest and being sent to Rome as a prisoner. How is it they would trust a man like that?
Was Paul's countenance so holy that they trusted him enough to not jump ship? Wouldn't they just think he was.....different, even strange?
Were Paul's words so compelling and confident that they were like orders from a heavenly officer?
Or were his earlier warnings about weather and ships proven to be true, so why not listen to this new warning and trust it?
It may have been all of those things and along with them, knowing that the end may be coming, so why not give yourself one... more.... chance. A long shot, maybe, but who's to know? Or, just maybe, one or two might have said, "I'll take my chances and obey him. I believe this man is a man of God."
Oh, to be a "man of God"! Paul gave up his fame in the Jewish community. He gave up his homeland. He had to fight for recognition among the solid leaders of the new Christian community in Jerusalem and all of Judah. Most of his career he was under arrest or being sought by authorities. He had no family. Yes, his sacrifices were many.
But, he had been favored by God to turn from his own way, to doing things God'sWay. Many, many times in Paul's missionary travels he was turned from one direction to God's direction.
All of Paul's directions from God, either a solid "yes" or a firm "no", were obeyed. And not only Paul obeyed, but those who traveled with him, also, were obedient to God. Thus, obedience and being available at all costs, was what made Paul.. God's Man.
So, my lesson for today, friends, is Listen and Obey! And that will take some doing for my habits are strong. But I must try, and even when I fail, I must begin again. I want to be a Woman of God. So, I must.... Listen! and Obey! That's my order for myself today!
Wish me God's speed, I appeal to you!
Jo
The ship met up with a horrendous wind and torrential rain. The men aboard feared for their lives and many attempted to escape. But Paul met with them and warned them that they must stay with the ship or all would perish. He explained that an angel had visited him assuring that all would be saved, but the ship would go down. Without any further information they trusted Paul.
To me, that fact is the most incredible of all. Yes, they all were saved, each finding his own way to the shores of a small island. Yes, the ship went down. And yes, they trusted Paul, an aging man who spoke of angels, and a God who walked the earth, and was under arrest and being sent to Rome as a prisoner. How is it they would trust a man like that?
Was Paul's countenance so holy that they trusted him enough to not jump ship? Wouldn't they just think he was.....different, even strange?
Were Paul's words so compelling and confident that they were like orders from a heavenly officer?
Or were his earlier warnings about weather and ships proven to be true, so why not listen to this new warning and trust it?
It may have been all of those things and along with them, knowing that the end may be coming, so why not give yourself one... more.... chance. A long shot, maybe, but who's to know? Or, just maybe, one or two might have said, "I'll take my chances and obey him. I believe this man is a man of God."
Oh, to be a "man of God"! Paul gave up his fame in the Jewish community. He gave up his homeland. He had to fight for recognition among the solid leaders of the new Christian community in Jerusalem and all of Judah. Most of his career he was under arrest or being sought by authorities. He had no family. Yes, his sacrifices were many.
But, he had been favored by God to turn from his own way, to doing things God'sWay. Many, many times in Paul's missionary travels he was turned from one direction to God's direction.
All of Paul's directions from God, either a solid "yes" or a firm "no", were obeyed. And not only Paul obeyed, but those who traveled with him, also, were obedient to God. Thus, obedience and being available at all costs, was what made Paul.. God's Man.
So, my lesson for today, friends, is Listen and Obey! And that will take some doing for my habits are strong. But I must try, and even when I fail, I must begin again. I want to be a Woman of God. So, I must.... Listen! and Obey! That's my order for myself today!
Wish me God's speed, I appeal to you!
Jo
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
I WANT TO PRAISE THE LORD!
David, before he became king of Judah, found himself separated from his home, his king, his friends, and everyone he had ever loved. In reading Psalm 22 this morning, I remembered this same feeling many times in my own life. Of course, I was not really alone. But the feeling, always the feeling, could put me in a state of despair.
As I read on in the psalm, I came to verses 25 and 26: "Here is this great gathering for worship. I have discovered this praise-life. And I'll do what I promised right here in front of the God-worshipers. Everyone on the hunt for God is here, praising him. Live it up, from head to toe. Don't ever quit!"
David consoles himself, invigorates those around him, and makes a promise. What promise does he make? And to whom?
At the beginning of the Psalm, David had pleaded with God, "Why did you dump me miles from nowhere." Kind of an exaggeration, isn't it? But when we feel depressed we feel not only separated from love, but lonely. The feelings become exaggerated. And if we have an opportunity to say , I feel lonely, to someone, somehow it seems so much better, But it doesn't stay better, sadly.
What had David really lost? How can he find that which is lost? How does he begin to find, once again, his true nature? And, does he imagine what he says here.....? "Here is this great gathering for worship. I have discovered this praise-life."
When I have been depressed, I need God. I know I need God, but at times, I can hardly call upon Him. Do I feel unworthy? Ashamed? Maybe so. But I am learning something very basic. God hasn't left. I'm the one who has left. David was the one who had left. But, by the time he had come to the end of the psalm, David had found himself in the presence of God and had made a promise to Him.
He says, "Here is",,,not was, not will be. God is here. God is always here. God is wherever you are and are calling Him because He is. He is there. He is real. He is power and glory and all that we need now or will ever need. Here. He is here.
David, in the psalm, is in a gathering, a great gathering. He has discovered a praise-life. How this came about, whether from imagination or vision or reality, no one knows. Only David and God. But his promise is real..... In verses 22 and 23, we read, "Shout hallelujah, give glory to God, and adore Him." David promised. I promise. How about you?
Let's do it, for as long as we live!! Praise you, Lord Jesus!!
Jo
As I read on in the psalm, I came to verses 25 and 26: "Here is this great gathering for worship. I have discovered this praise-life. And I'll do what I promised right here in front of the God-worshipers. Everyone on the hunt for God is here, praising him. Live it up, from head to toe. Don't ever quit!"
David consoles himself, invigorates those around him, and makes a promise. What promise does he make? And to whom?
At the beginning of the Psalm, David had pleaded with God, "Why did you dump me miles from nowhere." Kind of an exaggeration, isn't it? But when we feel depressed we feel not only separated from love, but lonely. The feelings become exaggerated. And if we have an opportunity to say , I feel lonely, to someone, somehow it seems so much better, But it doesn't stay better, sadly.
What had David really lost? How can he find that which is lost? How does he begin to find, once again, his true nature? And, does he imagine what he says here.....? "Here is this great gathering for worship. I have discovered this praise-life."
When I have been depressed, I need God. I know I need God, but at times, I can hardly call upon Him. Do I feel unworthy? Ashamed? Maybe so. But I am learning something very basic. God hasn't left. I'm the one who has left. David was the one who had left. But, by the time he had come to the end of the psalm, David had found himself in the presence of God and had made a promise to Him.
He says, "Here is",,,not was, not will be. God is here. God is always here. God is wherever you are and are calling Him because He is. He is there. He is real. He is power and glory and all that we need now or will ever need. Here. He is here.
David, in the psalm, is in a gathering, a great gathering. He has discovered a praise-life. How this came about, whether from imagination or vision or reality, no one knows. Only David and God. But his promise is real..... In verses 22 and 23, we read, "Shout hallelujah, give glory to God, and adore Him." David promised. I promise. How about you?
Let's do it, for as long as we live!! Praise you, Lord Jesus!!
Jo
Monday, February 18, 2013
A LESSON FOR FESTUS AND ME
Why, yes, I was reading Acts 25 this morning. How did you guess?
Festus and I share some of the same problems. No, I had nothing to do with Paul being sent to Rome. Festus and I have a similar problem in this...When you are unsure of what to do....go to the Lord!
Here is Festus, wondering how to treat Paul when all the stories told to him by the Jerusalem Jews were fabricated! And now Festus is holding Paul as a captive who has asked to be heard by Ceasar himself..in Rome. (What a shame that Festus was not a believer in the Jewish God. ) Of course, to complicate things, Paul believes the Jewish God is the same god as the one who is the father of this Jesus!( Our own Heavenly Father) And how can a heavenly being be the father of a human person?
Now, Festus had heard about a teacher-healer who was crucified. These Jerusalem Jews hated the people who believed this man was the promised Messiah and especially because so many were saying this Jesus, if that is his name, was risen from the dead. Good grief! What people will believe! But this Paul, can he possible believe this?
Of course, when Paul came before the governor, Festus and his guests began to believe. But, how to save him from Jerusalem and now Rome? If only Festus truly believed, for he and he only could have found a way to keep Paul from eventual destruction. But he didn't know he could take it to a higher power than Ceasar in Rome.
This is still the same in our world. Even those of us who love the Lord and pray to the Father, even we, may forget to go to the Father when we are unsure of what to do. It is too bad, isn't it, that we forget we can find help from the heavenly realm? We are pumped up with our own importance. Of course, I can figure out a solution to this mess. But maybe, just maybe, I may be wrong.
God is our provider. He will know what is best. He will always know what is the best way to work our way out of a tight place. Only He knows.
Remember the TV show FATHER KNOWS BEST? Well, maybe not all father's know best, but this Father does know best! Help me, someone, to always remember this...Father God knows best!
Now, I wish for you a very good day. And love from
Jo
Festus and I share some of the same problems. No, I had nothing to do with Paul being sent to Rome. Festus and I have a similar problem in this...When you are unsure of what to do....go to the Lord!
Here is Festus, wondering how to treat Paul when all the stories told to him by the Jerusalem Jews were fabricated! And now Festus is holding Paul as a captive who has asked to be heard by Ceasar himself..in Rome. (What a shame that Festus was not a believer in the Jewish God. ) Of course, to complicate things, Paul believes the Jewish God is the same god as the one who is the father of this Jesus!( Our own Heavenly Father) And how can a heavenly being be the father of a human person?
Now, Festus had heard about a teacher-healer who was crucified. These Jerusalem Jews hated the people who believed this man was the promised Messiah and especially because so many were saying this Jesus, if that is his name, was risen from the dead. Good grief! What people will believe! But this Paul, can he possible believe this?
Of course, when Paul came before the governor, Festus and his guests began to believe. But, how to save him from Jerusalem and now Rome? If only Festus truly believed, for he and he only could have found a way to keep Paul from eventual destruction. But he didn't know he could take it to a higher power than Ceasar in Rome.
This is still the same in our world. Even those of us who love the Lord and pray to the Father, even we, may forget to go to the Father when we are unsure of what to do. It is too bad, isn't it, that we forget we can find help from the heavenly realm? We are pumped up with our own importance. Of course, I can figure out a solution to this mess. But maybe, just maybe, I may be wrong.
God is our provider. He will know what is best. He will always know what is the best way to work our way out of a tight place. Only He knows.
Remember the TV show FATHER KNOWS BEST? Well, maybe not all father's know best, but this Father does know best! Help me, someone, to always remember this...Father God knows best!
Now, I wish for you a very good day. And love from
Jo
Saturday, February 16, 2013
BELIEFS WHICH CAN BECOME IDOLS
What does it matter what one believes? Well, ask God what He thinks about that!
Recently I attended a bible study at a prominent Lutheran Church whose pastor is a fine preacher and teacher. Becoming very impressed on the teachings during the six weeks, I decided to pass along some high points to those of you out there.
It also occurred to me this morning while I was journaling Lev. 26:1, "Don't make idols for yourselves," that what we believe in, if not in God, would be classified as an idol. So, here is a list of beliefs the world in particular and some of us, too, find prominent.
So here goes: Materialism...She is crazy about things. She rarely uses the word, enough. She often wants what everyone else has. She believes in an idol.
Second: Individualism...She serves herself, focusing on herself. Everything is about her. She believes in an idol.
Third: Heathenism...She is addicted to thrills, danger, or excitement. Pursuing pleasure is her game. She believes in an idol.
Fourth: Pragmatism...It seems right to her, whatever works. The world says it's OK, so it must be. She believes in an idol.
Fifth: Naturalism...God doesn't exist or matter. No God, so she doesn't have to be accountable. She believes in an idol.
Sixth: Humanism...She is her own god.. She has made herself the center of the universe. And she, too, believes in an idol.
Seventh: Theism... God made her for His purposes. Col.1:16 "For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible..everything got started in Him and finds its purpose in Him." She believes in the One, True God.
Well, there you have it. I must admit that I have moments when I find myself fitting into each of these catagories. It shames me to say so, but I must be truthful. However thinking about them as being idols snaps me back into the arms of Jesus, pronto!
So, I've decided that it really does matter what we believe. And the pastor said that being sincere is not enough. The 10 commandments will not change. The proverbs will not change, nor will any other words that we long to press into our minds and actions. Where we can see and say, It is written...needs to be a heart message and absolute truths. We center our belief system on Him!
So when I find myself eyeing the ring of my beautiful granddaughter, newly engaged, I just stay happy for her.. And I will not envy that ring and wish that I had one just like it, for I do not want to idolize material of any kind.
God has given me much to be thankful for...and I intend to stay that way...forever thankful!
How about you, Friends? jo
Recently I attended a bible study at a prominent Lutheran Church whose pastor is a fine preacher and teacher. Becoming very impressed on the teachings during the six weeks, I decided to pass along some high points to those of you out there.
It also occurred to me this morning while I was journaling Lev. 26:1, "Don't make idols for yourselves," that what we believe in, if not in God, would be classified as an idol. So, here is a list of beliefs the world in particular and some of us, too, find prominent.
So here goes: Materialism...She is crazy about things. She rarely uses the word, enough. She often wants what everyone else has. She believes in an idol.
Second: Individualism...She serves herself, focusing on herself. Everything is about her. She believes in an idol.
Third: Heathenism...She is addicted to thrills, danger, or excitement. Pursuing pleasure is her game. She believes in an idol.
Fourth: Pragmatism...It seems right to her, whatever works. The world says it's OK, so it must be. She believes in an idol.
Fifth: Naturalism...God doesn't exist or matter. No God, so she doesn't have to be accountable. She believes in an idol.
Sixth: Humanism...She is her own god.. She has made herself the center of the universe. And she, too, believes in an idol.
Seventh: Theism... God made her for His purposes. Col.1:16 "For everything, absolutely everything, above and below, visible and invisible..everything got started in Him and finds its purpose in Him." She believes in the One, True God.
Well, there you have it. I must admit that I have moments when I find myself fitting into each of these catagories. It shames me to say so, but I must be truthful. However thinking about them as being idols snaps me back into the arms of Jesus, pronto!
So, I've decided that it really does matter what we believe. And the pastor said that being sincere is not enough. The 10 commandments will not change. The proverbs will not change, nor will any other words that we long to press into our minds and actions. Where we can see and say, It is written...needs to be a heart message and absolute truths. We center our belief system on Him!
So when I find myself eyeing the ring of my beautiful granddaughter, newly engaged, I just stay happy for her.. And I will not envy that ring and wish that I had one just like it, for I do not want to idolize material of any kind.
God has given me much to be thankful for...and I intend to stay that way...forever thankful!
How about you, Friends? jo
Monday, February 11, 2013
KNOCK KNOCK, ANYBODY THERE?
Just home from the last INCREDIBLE bible study done by our pastor for, I think, six weeks on Monday mornings. I'm still flying high, yet wondering, why didn't I have this info when I was 25? Anyway, it was great. And it reminded me of today's journaling........
In Acts 18, Paul's efforts with the Jews, wherever he traveled,was really tough. They loved to argue with Paul and contradict each point he tried to make whenever and wherever he spoke. Paul never gave up, and although at times discouraged, he kept at it; he persevered.
It is hard to continue to tell people about Jesus when there is no one who wants to listen. But Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, touched uncounted hearts and lives during his time of ministry. Telling many, perhaps only a few listened, and fewer still caught on. Then, those that caught on began to tell many, and a few of them caught on and the company of Christians grew and grew. One person seems like nothing, but the power of God through one can become enough to fill a meeting place. But, and a big but, WE MUST TRUST that this is so. God will be at work without fail!
The same holds true for a single blogger. One blog may ignite no one. But it goes up into the never-never land of computer "cloud" and stays, and is always there, always available. ( At least that's what they tell me!) So, maybe, one blog may ignite many people given enough time. At least, that is my hope. At least, that is my prayer and I MUST TRUST that this is so. God will be at work without fail!
You see, I like people. No, I really love people. And I know the truth and wear that truth wherever I go. I'm not anybody special, but I am someone who has met the Master and been convinced that He and no one else is THE TRUTH.
I started blogging for my grandchildren, and now, for my great-grandchildren. But, and this is the truth, I got so enthused for telling others about Jesus and His Word that I only hoped they would read it, and if they didn't? Well, I hoped someone out there would come to know the Master who didn't know Him before. Or at least come to know Him better than they did before. Or at least have the blessing to tell someone else about this Man and God who sacrificed Himself so that we do not have to be sacrificed for our sins. I am nurtured, blessed, made peaceful, ignited, and so certain of His love that I am near bursting with the fire of it! How I pray that you feel this rapturous love as well! I can hardly bear to carry this lovely love without a way to share it.
That's why I blog!
Forever At His Feet, I am just.....Jo
In Acts 18, Paul's efforts with the Jews, wherever he traveled,was really tough. They loved to argue with Paul and contradict each point he tried to make whenever and wherever he spoke. Paul never gave up, and although at times discouraged, he kept at it; he persevered.
It is hard to continue to tell people about Jesus when there is no one who wants to listen. But Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, touched uncounted hearts and lives during his time of ministry. Telling many, perhaps only a few listened, and fewer still caught on. Then, those that caught on began to tell many, and a few of them caught on and the company of Christians grew and grew. One person seems like nothing, but the power of God through one can become enough to fill a meeting place. But, and a big but, WE MUST TRUST that this is so. God will be at work without fail!
The same holds true for a single blogger. One blog may ignite no one. But it goes up into the never-never land of computer "cloud" and stays, and is always there, always available. ( At least that's what they tell me!) So, maybe, one blog may ignite many people given enough time. At least, that is my hope. At least, that is my prayer and I MUST TRUST that this is so. God will be at work without fail!
You see, I like people. No, I really love people. And I know the truth and wear that truth wherever I go. I'm not anybody special, but I am someone who has met the Master and been convinced that He and no one else is THE TRUTH.
I started blogging for my grandchildren, and now, for my great-grandchildren. But, and this is the truth, I got so enthused for telling others about Jesus and His Word that I only hoped they would read it, and if they didn't? Well, I hoped someone out there would come to know the Master who didn't know Him before. Or at least come to know Him better than they did before. Or at least have the blessing to tell someone else about this Man and God who sacrificed Himself so that we do not have to be sacrificed for our sins. I am nurtured, blessed, made peaceful, ignited, and so certain of His love that I am near bursting with the fire of it! How I pray that you feel this rapturous love as well! I can hardly bear to carry this lovely love without a way to share it.
That's why I blog!
Forever At His Feet, I am just.....Jo
Friday, February 8, 2013
TRYING TO OUT-GOD GOD?
Am I trying to out-God God? I wonder.........
When Barnabas and Paul were preaching and teaching on their missionary journies, they were suddenly met with Jews from Jerusalem who began to demand that the new converts to Christianity be circumcized. Paul's comment to them was this, "Why are you now trying to out-God God?" As God had accepted these foreigners to the faith, even with their strange eating habits, why should the church demand they follow the strict laws of the Jews? There should be no argument, Paul and Barnabas agreed, as God had already accepted the converts "as they are."
The words "out-God God," however, kind of unsettles me. Do I load myself down with self-taught rules? What does it mean to today's Christian?
There is an old song about the Christian who carried the biggest Bible he could. He lugged it around to show others his serious faith. (I'm sure some of you remember the song and the singer, as well. But I forget.) Anyway, I think some of us are like this man who wanted everyone to know what he believed just by how he looked to others. It wasn't by kindness or goodness, but by Christian habits, showing others how deep was his faith by how big was his bible.
My mother used to tell me, "Pretty is as pretty does." And if pretty does stuff just to prove she is pretty, I don't think pretty is so pretty at all. If I do stuff just to prove I am special to God, perhaps I am not happy with the specialty God has chosen for me! And if I am disappointed in myself because I haven't heard God's voice or seen His face, maybe I am asking for too much for myself, thinking too much about myself, and not being satisfied with the incredible role in life that I have been given.
Each of us has been born for a reason. Some of us seem to scorn the reason we have been given. I thought I wanted to go to seminary and become a pastor. I didn't. But I pastored my children, in a sense, and besides, I hate meetings!! I thought I could go to art school, but it's very expensive and by the time my husband, Jerry, got through dental school and the Navy, we had two little girls. My two little girls and I used to color in their coloring books and draw pictures of Daddy in his dental office. I thought I might make a good writer and wasn't totally unsuccesful, but most of my time was spent in reading for myself and to a beautiful young sonn and later, a beautiful, wonderful gift.. another daughter! But I was loved! And I loved in return! And God was with me all the way!
Sometimes I feel a little envious, (Yes, that's the right word!) when someone tells me that they heard God speaking to them. Really? I don't hear God's voice, but I know when the Holy Spirit has ahold of my tail and pulls me to my journal! I have never had a vision, or if I have I haven't realized it. But I trust God cares about what I do, what I think, and how I act. And in the things I am not very good at, I think God is trying to teach me, especially when it means someone else will come to know Him.
So, I'm not going to try to be someone I'm not. Because I'm listening, God, for you to direct me in whatever else you've planned for me. I don't need to do something grand. I don't need to see your face; I can wait to see you in heaven. And I see your face in the countless friends who know you. And hear your voice? I hear you. Sundays at 10:15. Daily, as I read your Word. And Tues. afternoons during our Small Group. And especially when my dear Jerry tells me he loves me.
If you have more for me, you'll have to be the instigator. Because, with my ego, I might think I am someone even more special that I already am, and all because of You!
Can you relate? Jo
When Barnabas and Paul were preaching and teaching on their missionary journies, they were suddenly met with Jews from Jerusalem who began to demand that the new converts to Christianity be circumcized. Paul's comment to them was this, "Why are you now trying to out-God God?" As God had accepted these foreigners to the faith, even with their strange eating habits, why should the church demand they follow the strict laws of the Jews? There should be no argument, Paul and Barnabas agreed, as God had already accepted the converts "as they are."
The words "out-God God," however, kind of unsettles me. Do I load myself down with self-taught rules? What does it mean to today's Christian?
There is an old song about the Christian who carried the biggest Bible he could. He lugged it around to show others his serious faith. (I'm sure some of you remember the song and the singer, as well. But I forget.) Anyway, I think some of us are like this man who wanted everyone to know what he believed just by how he looked to others. It wasn't by kindness or goodness, but by Christian habits, showing others how deep was his faith by how big was his bible.
My mother used to tell me, "Pretty is as pretty does." And if pretty does stuff just to prove she is pretty, I don't think pretty is so pretty at all. If I do stuff just to prove I am special to God, perhaps I am not happy with the specialty God has chosen for me! And if I am disappointed in myself because I haven't heard God's voice or seen His face, maybe I am asking for too much for myself, thinking too much about myself, and not being satisfied with the incredible role in life that I have been given.
Each of us has been born for a reason. Some of us seem to scorn the reason we have been given. I thought I wanted to go to seminary and become a pastor. I didn't. But I pastored my children, in a sense, and besides, I hate meetings!! I thought I could go to art school, but it's very expensive and by the time my husband, Jerry, got through dental school and the Navy, we had two little girls. My two little girls and I used to color in their coloring books and draw pictures of Daddy in his dental office. I thought I might make a good writer and wasn't totally unsuccesful, but most of my time was spent in reading for myself and to a beautiful young sonn and later, a beautiful, wonderful gift.. another daughter! But I was loved! And I loved in return! And God was with me all the way!
Sometimes I feel a little envious, (Yes, that's the right word!) when someone tells me that they heard God speaking to them. Really? I don't hear God's voice, but I know when the Holy Spirit has ahold of my tail and pulls me to my journal! I have never had a vision, or if I have I haven't realized it. But I trust God cares about what I do, what I think, and how I act. And in the things I am not very good at, I think God is trying to teach me, especially when it means someone else will come to know Him.
So, I'm not going to try to be someone I'm not. Because I'm listening, God, for you to direct me in whatever else you've planned for me. I don't need to do something grand. I don't need to see your face; I can wait to see you in heaven. And I see your face in the countless friends who know you. And hear your voice? I hear you. Sundays at 10:15. Daily, as I read your Word. And Tues. afternoons during our Small Group. And especially when my dear Jerry tells me he loves me.
If you have more for me, you'll have to be the instigator. Because, with my ego, I might think I am someone even more special that I already am, and all because of You!
Can you relate? Jo
Thursday, February 7, 2013
GOD CREATED A GOOD CREATION
Acts 14:16 says, "God let all the different nations go their own way. But even then He didn't leave them without a clue, for He made a good creation."
These word were spoken by Paul or Barnabas in Lystra where they had healed a crippled man. The people there went wild, thinking the disciples were gods and got up a parade to honor them. But Paul and Barnabas stopped them and told them they represented the One God. That interested the Lyconians and they listened.
Me, too. I represent the One God who made me, and I do my best to listen. God made all of us out there over the centuries, those listening or not.
As I wasn't raised in the church, my "church" was the environment in which I lived. It is true that we had no formal worship such as we have now. But we did have the world as God created it! I learned that God brought us beauty in the stars of the sky and the sun on the river, sparkling in a heavenly way. Sunsets and rising sun--both were (and are still) beautiful and of God. The smile on my mother's face and my dad's laugh, both endeared me to them in gratitude and love, just like the God who created us. New babies or puppies, begged for kittens, all God-created. A home where love was taught--God created. Being punished for wrong-doing-God created. All of these things are lovely and Godly.
I learned about God, even if I didn't learn about church. But, sadly, I didn't learn the most important thing that was God-created--His Son, God's very own Son. I didn't learn that Christ died for my sins, my basic human wrongness. But I know it now. He died for me--My Savior!
I thank my family for teaching me what they knew about God. And I thank my church for teaching me about Jesus. More than a baby born in Bethlehem, He is my Savior and the Savior of the World. Which, before we forget, World, was God-Created!!
Happy Day! Jo
These word were spoken by Paul or Barnabas in Lystra where they had healed a crippled man. The people there went wild, thinking the disciples were gods and got up a parade to honor them. But Paul and Barnabas stopped them and told them they represented the One God. That interested the Lyconians and they listened.
Me, too. I represent the One God who made me, and I do my best to listen. God made all of us out there over the centuries, those listening or not.
As I wasn't raised in the church, my "church" was the environment in which I lived. It is true that we had no formal worship such as we have now. But we did have the world as God created it! I learned that God brought us beauty in the stars of the sky and the sun on the river, sparkling in a heavenly way. Sunsets and rising sun--both were (and are still) beautiful and of God. The smile on my mother's face and my dad's laugh, both endeared me to them in gratitude and love, just like the God who created us. New babies or puppies, begged for kittens, all God-created. A home where love was taught--God created. Being punished for wrong-doing-God created. All of these things are lovely and Godly.
I learned about God, even if I didn't learn about church. But, sadly, I didn't learn the most important thing that was God-created--His Son, God's very own Son. I didn't learn that Christ died for my sins, my basic human wrongness. But I know it now. He died for me--My Savior!
I thank my family for teaching me what they knew about God. And I thank my church for teaching me about Jesus. More than a baby born in Bethlehem, He is my Savior and the Savior of the World. Which, before we forget, World, was God-Created!!
Happy Day! Jo
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
GET RID OF LITTLE GODS (SMALL G)
Reading today from Acts 13, "It was required that God's Word be spoken first of all to you, the Jews. But seeing that you want no part of it--you've made it quite clear that you have no taste or inclination for eternal life--the door is open to all the outsiders."
We were the outsiders! Our families each go back to the days of insiders and outsiders, the insiders loving and honoring the True God (capital G)and the outsiders worshipping the little gods (small g).
Then, because of disbelief by the insiders, the door was opened to the outsiders,( that's us!) God (capital G) got through to us through the likes of fishermen and Paul, (who once hated the outsiders) and each of their disciples. We took it all in and accepted this man/God who died for our sins and later rose from the dead and was said to now live in us through His Spirit. Such a story! Have you ever heard the like of it? Well, neither have I, and I say that it is true, for such a thing as this could never be imagined. And all I see around me--- lives which have changed--- a book that is full of similar life changes and wonderful, fantastic miracles all being done by the work of God and the Son of God. Why would some doubt it?
Yet, we of the Capital G God have fallen. Yes, we have. So many of us have been picking up
small g gods and adoring them. No, they don't quite have the same look of those in the days of Peter and Paul, but they are definitely gods. They may not be made of metal or wood, plaster or plastic, but they aren't any more precious than cardboard, not in the scale of things that God sees as good.
They are gods, all right. Of course, they don't have to be, but many of us have made them into and like gods. These are things like youthfulness, beauty, that which is in, ideas, travel, the best sport team, what to wear, what to buy, making money, or living without it and the fear of more poverty. We have even taken our misfortunes and illnesses, deaths, destruction of property and touted them up to become more important than God. We have small g gods in almost every area of our lives. And I don't see myself totally released from this bondage.
Everything in our lives becomes more important than God, at times, too important to remember the One God who accepted us so long ago as insiders. It is a grand place to be, inside. Inside of God's arms, inside His love, inside of the right to someday be on the Inside of the Heavenly Places.
I want to be an Insider. I want to be...for sure...an insider who puts God first in her life. I want to have God at my elbow, pulling or pushing me wherever He wants me to go. No lie... I want God to be the big G God, first and foremost my God, first and foremost in my life.
So are you with me? God was and God is and evermore shall be. It is He who is to be the One among us. And if we really are insiders, lets get rid of the little g gods. List them in our lives secondly or thirdly or even further down the list of importance. Look to the God of all of us, insiders and outsiders, but we insiders are the ones who must be noticed for we carry the name, the adored of God, God's Insiders..
So, look to the God of all of us, insider and outsider. Look to our Creator, Redeemer, Master, and Friend. Amen.
Are you looking? Jo
We were the outsiders! Our families each go back to the days of insiders and outsiders, the insiders loving and honoring the True God (capital G)and the outsiders worshipping the little gods (small g).
Then, because of disbelief by the insiders, the door was opened to the outsiders,( that's us!) God (capital G) got through to us through the likes of fishermen and Paul, (who once hated the outsiders) and each of their disciples. We took it all in and accepted this man/God who died for our sins and later rose from the dead and was said to now live in us through His Spirit. Such a story! Have you ever heard the like of it? Well, neither have I, and I say that it is true, for such a thing as this could never be imagined. And all I see around me--- lives which have changed--- a book that is full of similar life changes and wonderful, fantastic miracles all being done by the work of God and the Son of God. Why would some doubt it?
Yet, we of the Capital G God have fallen. Yes, we have. So many of us have been picking up
small g gods and adoring them. No, they don't quite have the same look of those in the days of Peter and Paul, but they are definitely gods. They may not be made of metal or wood, plaster or plastic, but they aren't any more precious than cardboard, not in the scale of things that God sees as good.
They are gods, all right. Of course, they don't have to be, but many of us have made them into and like gods. These are things like youthfulness, beauty, that which is in, ideas, travel, the best sport team, what to wear, what to buy, making money, or living without it and the fear of more poverty. We have even taken our misfortunes and illnesses, deaths, destruction of property and touted them up to become more important than God. We have small g gods in almost every area of our lives. And I don't see myself totally released from this bondage.
Everything in our lives becomes more important than God, at times, too important to remember the One God who accepted us so long ago as insiders. It is a grand place to be, inside. Inside of God's arms, inside His love, inside of the right to someday be on the Inside of the Heavenly Places.
I want to be an Insider. I want to be...for sure...an insider who puts God first in her life. I want to have God at my elbow, pulling or pushing me wherever He wants me to go. No lie... I want God to be the big G God, first and foremost my God, first and foremost in my life.
So are you with me? God was and God is and evermore shall be. It is He who is to be the One among us. And if we really are insiders, lets get rid of the little g gods. List them in our lives secondly or thirdly or even further down the list of importance. Look to the God of all of us, insiders and outsiders, but we insiders are the ones who must be noticed for we carry the name, the adored of God, God's Insiders..
So, look to the God of all of us, insider and outsider. Look to our Creator, Redeemer, Master, and Friend. Amen.
Are you looking? Jo
Saturday, February 2, 2013
GOD'S BLINDING LIGHT
Just a warning! Today's blog will be a hard one for me to write. But here goes:
In Exodus 34:29, Moses came down from Mt. Sinai carrying the Ten Commandments, his face glowed from the light of God. In Psalm 16:11, the psalmist's feet were radiant from the shining of God's face. In Acts 9:9 Saul continued blind for three days, because the blinding light of Jesus spoke to him on the way to Damascus and told him to follow Him.
I think we can agree the bible often has spoken about the Light of the Lord being the Light of the World!
We are mere mortals. Moses was mortal. The psalmist was mortal. Saul was mortal and, although he was changed to Paul, he was still mortal. But we mortals do have heavenly experiences once and awhile. I'd like to confess how an experience of mine was terribly misunderstood.
I was a very new Christian and anxious to serve my Lord. I had accepted the volunteer position of being chair of the children's ministry at our church. The small, heated room for our Babies was tended by a wonderful woman who had immigrated with her family from Northern Europe. It was winter and the heat in the little room had become odorous. It became my job to take care of the situation.
I had taken the problem to the Pastor in charge of that area, and not knowing how to solve the problem, he agreed that I should speak to this woman, kindly and with love. Perhaps, in retrospect, we should have spoken with our main minister or the Session (a group of lay persons who are available for help in decision-making), but we thought with God's help I could do it.
The night before I was to go there was a raging snowstorm. In spite of it, I believed God wanted me to go and visit with her, prepared to speak with her as a friend about the situation in the little room, even with the storm. In the middle of the night, I awoke to a bright light at the foot of my bed. It was not an ordinary light, so I said, "Is it you, Lord?" Of course, there was no voice in answer. So, I doubted it was a warning.
Still intent on doing my job for Jesus, I set out the next day in the storm. I could barely see. I had to drive slowly. At one point, I nearly hit a truck. At another crucial turn, I missed it. Lost, I wandered a bit until I finally found myself at her front door.
She smiled as she opened the door. She had made a wonderful dessert which was delicious. We had tea and she told me about her European home. I remember nothing, as I didn't know how I was going to break this peace and joy with my awfulness.
Finally, I did. I told her about the complaints, but tried to soften it with the love I had for her, and the love felt by all who had met her, and the love she had for our babies.
I realized how angry she was becoming. I felt so bad, sad, and wrong! I left quickly, sending her as much love as I knew how under the poor circumstances. There was no shining light coming from my face. No God on my countenance!
My report to my authorities was short. " It's done." The woman and her family left the church.
Years later, I found her phone number and tried to speak with her. She hung up.
Again, even later. I was forced to resign a church volunteer job that I tried to do well. There were those that didn't like how I was doing my job, and I was fired. I felt the sting of embarassment and shame. It took a while for me to forgive. But I began to really understand how my European friend had felt that awful day.
Being a Christian isn't always easy. Seeing the light of God is a rarity. I wish I had known. I hope I remember. I trust God to continue to teach me--a slow learner. But I shall always seek His face!
Thus sayeth the Lord, "I will prevail!" Yes, He will!
Love to all you out there. in never-never land!
Jo
In Exodus 34:29, Moses came down from Mt. Sinai carrying the Ten Commandments, his face glowed from the light of God. In Psalm 16:11, the psalmist's feet were radiant from the shining of God's face. In Acts 9:9 Saul continued blind for three days, because the blinding light of Jesus spoke to him on the way to Damascus and told him to follow Him.
I think we can agree the bible often has spoken about the Light of the Lord being the Light of the World!
We are mere mortals. Moses was mortal. The psalmist was mortal. Saul was mortal and, although he was changed to Paul, he was still mortal. But we mortals do have heavenly experiences once and awhile. I'd like to confess how an experience of mine was terribly misunderstood.
I was a very new Christian and anxious to serve my Lord. I had accepted the volunteer position of being chair of the children's ministry at our church. The small, heated room for our Babies was tended by a wonderful woman who had immigrated with her family from Northern Europe. It was winter and the heat in the little room had become odorous. It became my job to take care of the situation.
I had taken the problem to the Pastor in charge of that area, and not knowing how to solve the problem, he agreed that I should speak to this woman, kindly and with love. Perhaps, in retrospect, we should have spoken with our main minister or the Session (a group of lay persons who are available for help in decision-making), but we thought with God's help I could do it.
The night before I was to go there was a raging snowstorm. In spite of it, I believed God wanted me to go and visit with her, prepared to speak with her as a friend about the situation in the little room, even with the storm. In the middle of the night, I awoke to a bright light at the foot of my bed. It was not an ordinary light, so I said, "Is it you, Lord?" Of course, there was no voice in answer. So, I doubted it was a warning.
Still intent on doing my job for Jesus, I set out the next day in the storm. I could barely see. I had to drive slowly. At one point, I nearly hit a truck. At another crucial turn, I missed it. Lost, I wandered a bit until I finally found myself at her front door.
She smiled as she opened the door. She had made a wonderful dessert which was delicious. We had tea and she told me about her European home. I remember nothing, as I didn't know how I was going to break this peace and joy with my awfulness.
Finally, I did. I told her about the complaints, but tried to soften it with the love I had for her, and the love felt by all who had met her, and the love she had for our babies.
I realized how angry she was becoming. I felt so bad, sad, and wrong! I left quickly, sending her as much love as I knew how under the poor circumstances. There was no shining light coming from my face. No God on my countenance!
My report to my authorities was short. " It's done." The woman and her family left the church.
Years later, I found her phone number and tried to speak with her. She hung up.
Again, even later. I was forced to resign a church volunteer job that I tried to do well. There were those that didn't like how I was doing my job, and I was fired. I felt the sting of embarassment and shame. It took a while for me to forgive. But I began to really understand how my European friend had felt that awful day.
Being a Christian isn't always easy. Seeing the light of God is a rarity. I wish I had known. I hope I remember. I trust God to continue to teach me--a slow learner. But I shall always seek His face!
Thus sayeth the Lord, "I will prevail!" Yes, He will!
Love to all you out there. in never-never land!
Jo
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