All Because of Jesus

"Let the redeemed of the LORD tell their story—those he redeemed from the hand of the foe, those he gathered from the lands, from east and west, from north and south." Psalm 107:2-3

Faces. Faces of beauty. Eyes. Eyes smiling, crying, searching. Lips. Lips praising, praying, sharing. Hands. Hands clapping, opening, rising. Hearts. Hearts beating, loving, longing. Lives. Lives touching, moving, changing. Story. Story forming, sharing, leading.

 

       All because of Jesus.

 

The active, ever-present God meeting each one as individual. Individual in shape and form. Individual in need and want. Individual in talent and beauty. Women, writers, speakers, leaders uniting to tell their stories. 

 

     All because of Jesus.

 

Humbling. Heart-breaking. Inspiring. Motivating. Empowering. Stories confessing brokenness. Stories sharing joy. Stories leading us to the One who seeks and saves. Stories of the One offering us something new; a new name and a new life.

All because of Jesus.

 

This was my weekend. Surrounded by 650 women gathered from around this country, representing 44 states and four countries who had a Jesus story to tell. A story unique in it's delivery and circumstance yet universal in it's message: Broken. Touched by the open hands of Jesus. Changed forever.  

All because of Jesus.

 

"I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me." Galatians 2:20

Detours

"Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life."

Psalm 143:8 (NIV)

Join me for the beginning of this Detour today at 4pm on Encouragement Cafe . I'll be serving up my detour story titled GPS: Listening to God's Planning Strategy.

Here's how the story continues:

Usually detours are set up to protect us from dangerous road conditions ahead. But when we detour off God's planned route for our lives, we can travel some treacherous roads. As you've just read my story at Encouragement Cafe, I learned this the hard way and then God redirected my journey on an off-road experience.

In the seven months it took to completely heal from my concussion, there were times when I could do nothing. The pain was so severe that simple tasks like bending over, watching television, listening to music, and browsing the Internet triggered excruciating headaches. I could however, journal and read for short snippets of time. So, what's left to do? NOTHING!

I felt so guilty knowing my entire family was working and I was contributing nothing. I kept checking in with God, "Are you sure I'm suppose to be doing nothing?" The answer was always the same, "Do nothing. Just let me heal you." Double checking that I heard him right I'd ask again, "So God, in my 'doing nothing' what am I REALLY suppose to be doing?"

In God's infinite wisdom and humor, I wasn't really doing nothing. I was enrolled in God's School of Ear Training. God had me right where he wanted me; totally dependent on Him for a full nine hours a day. In those hours God trained my ears to discern his voice in prayer, in reading Scripture, and in simple conversation.

The following summer it was time to take a step of faith and follow God's directions. Journaling quietly at my girlfriends kitchen table one July morning, God gave me the gift of words that formed a simple verse. As I reread it I thought, "Hey, that could be a children's book! "God answered, "Why, yes it could. Now publish it." That's how simply my children's book Auntie's House came to be and was published by Halo Publishing Int'l in February 2009. It was a small beginning that has germinated into a larger, God-sized dream.

Learning to hear God's voice, recognizing it and stepping out in faith to obey it have been valuable lessons. It is difficult to let go of our own plans and veer off-road with God. Sometimes the road conditions leave us with poor visibility and we're left wondering what awaits us up ahead. But one thing is true: God will never leave us or forsake us on our journeys. He will see us through to the end.

"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10 (NIV)

"Direct me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight." Psalm 119:35 (NIV)

Dear Lord,

How easy it is to stay our own course when you are calling us to detour away from dangerous roads. Help us not only to discern your voice but to humbly lay down our own road plans for yours that lead to life.

Holy Tears

"There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells." Psalm 46:4

By Saturday afternoon at the She Speaks conference, my heart was overwhelmed by God's presence and words that pierced my soul. It was all good, just more than my humanity could contain. So, I tip-toed into the prayer room, sought sanctuary, and wept. Tears of gratitude, of wonder, of cleansing from my Jehova-Mekaddishkem, (God who sanctifies), rolled down my cheeks. My shoulders heaved and my voice could not utter one audible word, only a groan; a sound so deep within that only the Holy Spirit could interpret.

God's journey for me this year has been one signified by these words: Surrender. Confidence. Small beginnings. God planted them in the soil of my heart one-by-one throughout the past seven months and they germinated in separate, neatly cultivated rows of understanding.

Surrender. At first I thought this word was given to me for my husband. I misunderstood. It was all for me. God finally whispered clearly to my heart, "Surrender your words. Surrender your striving. Surrender your book." He didn't say give up on my efforts, my dreams and plans. Rather, he called me to lay them down and partner with him in the creative process of a God-sized dream: a book that would speak healing to the wounded hearts of daughters of divorce.

Confidence. Big dreams brought fear. Fears that I wasn't good enough, equipped enough, talented enough. I wasn't enough. But he reassured me He is enough. I walked into church the Sunday after New Year's Day and was handed a slip of paper; a torn off calendar sheet with two Scripture verses on it. It's significance to the sermon fails me now but it was a profound message to me directly from God. It read, "So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded. You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised." Hebrews 10:35-36. Dated: July 22, 2011; the date the She Speaks writers' conference would begin.

Small beginnings. A book has been brewing in my belly for two years and this winter I surrendered it back to the Lord for his purposes and wrote hard and long to prepare it for the writer's conference. I asked Josie Muwonge, a visiting pastor, to pray over me for God's annointing as I continued to prepare. She said, "I see God's annointing all over you already. Go home and write." And when she finished praying she whispered, "Do not bemoan the small beginnings."

I walked into She Speaks this weekend very pregnant with the lessons God had taught me, locked behind a binder, written in black and white. I surrendered it to the publishers. One liked it. More work to be done. But this was not the significant moment. For the significant came in small morsels, spoken by sisters of the Word, that swelled my belly when those neatly germinated rows collided in one place; those God-reminders of surrender, confidence and small beginnings. I could not restrain myself and in moments they poured out as rivers of tears sacrificed to the Most High in a holy corner of the She Speaks prayer room.

Do you have a dream that God's placed in your heart? Are you tired of the burn in your belly to see it come true? Are you burned out from striving and planning in your own strength? I invite you to lay it down, dear reader. Take time to weep and listen for God's words as his Spirit washes over you.

"My intercessor is my friend as my eyes pour out tears to God." Job 16:20

Sweet Worship From Generation to Generation

“Then we your people, the sheep of your pasture, will praise you forever; from generation to generation we will proclaim your praise.” Psalm 79: 13


Since our children married I find myself longing for them during Sunday morning worship. I miss watching them get lost in praise and witnessing God’s precious Spirit wash over their faces.


God must have been listening to my heart because he gathered my family together for worship, this Sunday night. As the lights dimmed and the music began to swell my heart was full as I stood amongst my family who invited worship. Soon, my three year old granddaughter beckoned me to dance. “Grams, can we dance? Will you dance with me?”


I must admit, at first I struggled with how to use this as a teachable moment for her; to teach her that we dance or raise our hand in worship to Jesus, not just because it’s fun to move to the beat of the drums. Then Jesus whispered, “Do not hinder the little children to come to me.” So, I kicked of my shoes (and Dakota’s too) and we danced and we swayed and we worshiped Jesus together. There we were, side-by-side lifting our voices, raising our hands, raising our banners of praise to the Lord. I find it almost inexplicable.

In a quiet moment near the end, the band began to whisper a melody that has been sung to comfort four generations in my family:

“Jesus, Jesus, Jesus. There’s just something about that name. Master, Savior, Jesus. Let all heaven and earth proclaim. Kings and kingdoms may all pass away, but there’s something about that name.”

I was swallowed up in God’s presence at that moment, holding my granddaughter close, watching those familiar faces soaked in His presence; I was so grateful to be worshiping with my family. I am thankful that He has blessed my family from generation to generation with a passion to praise Him.


Thank you Lord, for the blessing me with a family that worships you. May our lives continue to honor you and our lips to worship you from generation to generation. Amen.

"His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation." Luke 1:50

My Greatest Desire

"Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart."

Psalm 37:4

It's a perfect morning. Summer, sunshine, silence and a whole day to do whatever I desire.

While comforting scents of coffee and cinnamon brew in the corner, I pop a raisin English muffin into the toaster. And wait.

Not wanting to waste time, I scan my grocery list, adding and subtracting items according to my scant plethora of coupons. Still waiting.

I scoop up the newspaper, (barely reaching my driveway), nearly tripping over my fluffy feline that runs under my feet as I step back into the house. She weaves back and forth between my legs until I fulfill her desire for tuna and eggs, Friskies style.

Ahhh. Coffee's done. English muffin is dripping with melted butter. I grab the paper, ready to settle into the local news when God whispers, "Come away. Delight in me."

I stand there a few seconds contemplating all the time I'd waste sitting around "doing nothing." Really. God whispers again, "Come away." One thing I've learned in my almost 50 years, when God asks me, more than once to do something, I listen. So, dropping the paper,  I relinquish my desire for busyness to "do nothing" except be in God's presence.

He never disappoints. In the devotional Jesus Calling, by Sarah Young God met me this morning with these words, "This time alone with me is essential for unscrambling your thoughts and smoothing out the day before you. Be willing to fight for this precious time with Me. Opposition comes in many forms: (including) your own inner critic to spend your time more productively. As you grow in your desire to please Me above all else, you gain strength to resist these opponents. Delight yourself in Me , for I am the deepest Desire of your heart."

Do you ever look at your quiet time with God as doing nothing, like me? Do you ever desire to spend your time with other people doing other things rather than with God? The bible says we are his greatest delight; he takes great pleasure in His children; He sings over us with joy! He just wants to spend time with us and become our hearts' deepest Desire; our greatest longing.

Dear Lord, forgive me of my selfishness. Continue to draw me near to your side, into your presence until you become my deepest desire.

It's Been A Week

"Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26

It's been quite a week. Preparing for the She Speaks writers' conference means endless days of research, dotting your i's and crossing your t's. It's where the rubber meets the road and God says, "Do you trust me?"

Those of us brave enough to follow God's call on our hearts to write His message on the hearts of other women, go through weeks, months, years of questioning our mission. We wonder, "Have you really called me God? 'cause this is just plain hard." With the publishing industry whittling away while it reevaluates its place in the techno-savvy world, those 0f us with a message beg for a chance to be heard.  

Two years ago, God placed the seed for a book in my heart. A guide for daughters of divorce toward the rescue, restoration, and release of their wounded hearts. It' been a struggle to write. It's been a challenge to revisit those places I've wanted to forget. Yet, God's reminded me that the freedom He's given because of my obedience to forgive, must be shared with the next generation.

Although I'd like to think my words will be published, God has continually reminded me this year that I'm on a journey; that all my experiences are part of a long process. He's reminded me that no matter if my words are published, I must remember three things: (1) be grateful for small beginnings, (2) be patient, no matter how long it takes for God to accomplish His mission through me, and (3) be confident in what He has equipped me to do.

So, as I prepare my second book proposal, I choose to hope rather than cling to discouragement. I choose to persevere, rather than give up and say, "What's the use?" I choose to step out in obedience and gain insight, rather than to stubbornly disobey in the prospect of disappointment.

One thing I know: I serve a God of limitless possibilities and promises. I choose to step out in obedience to His call and see what's in store...day to day. What about you?

The Beauty of the Dance

"You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands." Isaiah 55:11

There I sat, nestled deep into my favorite chair, in the corner of my writing room, journaling thoughts. Like greeting an old friend, I caressed the pages of my journal and breathed in its white linen scent. With pen in hand, words danced across the page without a blinking cursor bidding my next thought, impatiently. The bend and twirl of every cursive stroke wove thoughts into words the eye could see until my mind could comprehend its beauty. Ah! The beauty of the dance. 

Those scrawling conversations with God are times of worship, really. He bids me come, I take his hand out onto the floor and we dance. One word and then another. As he leads me around I catch a glimpse of where I've been and where He wants to lead me next. It can be frightening sometimes when He quickens the pace and I clumsily trip over my own feet, trying to predict his next step. It's then, He picks me up, looks into my eyes, and whispers, "Trust me. I've got you. Don't worry."

We always want to know what's next, don't we? But God knows better. He knows that if we could see what's next we may choose not to follow His lead. We may become overwhelmed and leave the dance floor before the music ends. What beauty would there be to the dance unfinished?

Jesus bids us come. Will you follow His lead?

" 'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord. 'Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.' " Jeremiah 29:11

Feeling the Fear

"You came near when I called you, and you said, “Do not fear.”

Lamentations 3:57

There are two types of fear; fear that protects you from injury or pain and fear that paralyzes you from experiencing all that is good. Either way, we all experience fear.

Protective fear is good. God placed the fear of falling and loud noises in each of us from birth,  to keep us safe. We learn to fear other things, either from our parents or through our own injuries, like hot stoves, fire, depths, strangers, sharp knives. If we didn't fear such things, we'd be spending a lot of time in the hospital, dead, or nearly dead.

Paralyzing fear, however, is not good. It's a fear that causes us to do nothing rather than forge ahead toward something greater. The task ahead of us may look daunting, even impossible, so we say, "What's the use?" and coward away. When we play it safe we seem to lose nothing and most certainly, we gain nothing.

Queen Esther could have "played it safe", keeping her Jewish identity a secret from King Xerxes to spare her own life from the planned anihilation of the entire race. Instead, she forged ahead in spite of her fear but not without first, seeking God's face. She, her maids,  her Uncle Mordecai, and all the Jews of the land, fasted and prayed for three days. Then, and only then, did she go before the king, still knowing she may perish at his hand. In the end, God performed a miraculous thing, saving not only Esther, but all the Jews in this kingdom (Esther 1-10).

Some of us may be staring at a God sized dream that looks more like a daunting nightmare right now. We can't sit here paralyzed, waiting for the fear to leave; thinking that when we're free from fear, then we'll have the courage to move forward. That's just a lie. As a fellow blogger so eloquently wrote today, "The enemy will tell you that courage means the absence of fear as you move ahead. It doesn't. Faith means feeling the fear and moving ahead into God's will anyway..." (Holley Gerth at http://holleygerth.com).

So, dear reader, Seek God's face. Move forward. Then watch Him accomplish great things with you, through you, despite all your fears. 

"Surely the Sovereign LORD does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets. The lion has roared—who will not fear? The Sovereign LORD has spoken—who can but prophesy?" Amos 3:7-8

Shoulder to Shoulder

"I will purify the lips of the peoples, that all of them may call on the name of the Lord and serve him shoulder to shoulder." Zephaniah 3:9 NIV

Opposites attract. That's a good thing since my husband and I couldn't be more opposite if we tried. If we took a compatibility test, I think we'd score "incompatible". I like to be alone. He likes to surround himself with people. I work best in peace and quiet. He always works with background noise. I'm a morning person. He's a night owl. Chaos paralyzes me while it quickly mobilizes him to visualize order in the midst of it. Yet, we've survived our incompatibilities for over 30 years. Maybe it's because where one of us lacks the other excels and it all balances out somehow.

The hardest thing for me to get used to in our marriage has been his need to work with me, shoulder to shoulder. When he sets out to do something on my "honey do" list and it becomes frustrating for him, he'll yell from wherever he is, "Dawn, can you give me some help?" Of course, being the good wife that I am, I drop everything and run to his side, but not without mumbling under my breath. "If I could do it myself, I wouldn't have put it on the 'honey do' list in the first place," I complain. What use to frustrate me more was that more times than not, there wasn't anything I could do to help. But, he still wanted me there...standing shoulder to shoulder.

It took a few years to finally understand that he wasn't so much looking for my physical or academic help to figure out a problem. Rather, he just needed my emotional support in a difficult or frustrating situation. And the funny thing is, his whole attitude, demeanor changes after I show up because he knows he's not alone.

This picture of working shoulder to shoulder is exactly what God envisioned for his church. He's all about community; all about working together. He didn't expect us to be lone rangers, working things out alone. Rather he intended us to join forces, gather our abilities, our talents, our support to work alongside each other in whatever task we are doing.

Some of us may be opposites, but we all play a significant role in God's kingdom. Together, working shoulder to shoulder we can accomplish great things.

He Never Fails

"Morning by morning he dispenses his justice, and every new day he does not fail." Zephaniah 3:5

Loud cracks of thunder interrupted the silence of early dawn. Sheets of lightning illuminated the sky like strobe lights in a disco tech but I wasn't in the mood for dancing. I laid in bed motionless, anticipating the sound of rain while cool air rushed through the open windows. The red LED numbers on the clock glared, 3:18 a. m. Over two hours before the alarm would sound.

It wasn't long before the raindrops spattered against the metal awning outside challenging me to a race. Reluctantly, I jumped out of bed racing the raindrops from room to room. I won and hoped to enjoy a victory sleep, but my mind was wide awake. It was now 3:30 a.m. I turned my back to the clock hoping, no praying, that sleep would come quickly.

The storm subsided within minutes. Back out of bed, I reopened the windows, turned on the fans hoping to capture another 90 minutes of uninterrupted sleep. But, the birds decided to celebrate morning, instead. Not fair! I couldn't close the windows to block out their incessant chirping or I'd swelter from the humidity. So I made a deal with God.

"Lord, I know I promised to get up early to write but I didn't expect this storm. Thoughts won't flow unless I'm rested, so please help me sleep hard and fast." With that I reset the alarm for 7:30 a.m.

God woke me an hour early before the alarm sounded. Like a parent trying to coax their child out of bed for school, God kept at me until I conceded. "Grab your coffee and come with me," he prodded. "Come with me and see what I have for you today."

"But, Lord," I complained, "I'm so tired and I can't write like this. You know my deadline. I have to be 'on point' today. Can't I just sleep a little bit longer?"

"You're right," God agreed, "YOU can't compose all worn and tired. In fact, without me YOU can do nothing, even with the extra sleep. So, sleep if you'd like or grab your coffee, feast on my word, and rest in me for awhile."

Reluctantly, I followed. I feasted and he satisfied. He led me to the book of Zephaniah and fed me with promises that I'd like to share over the next couple of days. The first is his promise of faithfulness.

"Morning by morning he dispenses his justice, and every new day he does not fail" (Zephaniah 3:5b NIV). God never fails to accomplish his goals. Like any child, we can be rebellious, uncooperative, lazy, stubborn and independent. But, if we simply follow his lead, become fully dependent on him in everything, he will always prove faithful to complete all that he has promised in us and through us. It isn't a coincidence that my blog is called Dawn's New Day. Today he defined what he set in motion two years ago. In every new day, no matter what it brings, God will not fail.

"...the mystery of God will be accomplished, just as he announced to his servants the prophets" (Revelation 10:7 NIV).

Our Stories

"Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story..." Psalm 107:2

When you sit on a story for a long, long time you get bored with it. You start to second guess yourself and wonder, "Who cares, anyhow?" You've read it, told it, written it over and over again until you want to throw it away. But it doesn't go away. It's YOUR story. Everything you've written is true and it matters.

I knew last night that today I'd have to postpone my writing retreat until the afternoon or evening. Our Maine coon cat looked up at me Sunday, with three eyelids showing...not a pretty sight...and I knew she needed some medical attention. Her vet appointment wasn't until late this morning; early enough that it wouldn't allow me enough time to get to my writing and late enough that I had to keep an eye on where the cat, "Moaning Myrtle", wandered off to after breakfast.

Killing some time, I decided to read the newspaper. My eyes skimmed the articles, but my mind was interrupting. I really felt I'd let myself down; like I'd never reach my writing goal for today. I starting thinking, "What's the use? Who really cares about my story or this book idea, anyway?" My eyes finally interrupted my thought as the title of an award-winning essay written by a young girl in town caught my attention: "Divorce". As I read her words, I realized I was reading MY story. Her struggles were my struggles. Her vivid recollections were the same as mine. My heart connected with hers, another daughter of divorce. The only difference was our names and end of the story.

Endings. That's why I NEED to tell my story. It can change the entire ending to HER story and many other endings to many other stories of many other daughters of divorce. There is one who gives us hope and a future; one who never leaves us nor forsakes us; one who forgives and teaches us how to forgive. His name is Jesus.

We all have a story. We've all weathered some storms. And for those of us who've found healing for our wounds, we need to tell our stories and help change the ending of someone elses story.

"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." Deuteronomy 31:8

"...He has sent me to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness the prisoners..." Isaiah 61:1b

Before the Masterpiece

"...your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions..." Joel 2:28b

Beauty inspires. Beauty in the simplest form of nature, a butterfly, a bumble bee, a flower swept meadow, makes us stop and take notice. We admire the design of an intricate piece of artwork; the shape, the colors, the lines. Even the beauty of a good story takes us beyond ourselves, moves our imagination to the known and the unknown.

We all enjoy a great masterpiece, but have you ever stopped to think of how it is formed? How does it all begin? With a dream. With a small seed of an idea that takes root in the heart of the artist. Then the mess begins. Behind closed doors the artist plays with his idea; sketches it out; adds to it; takes away; refines and rebuilds. Hidden from his critics, his public, even those closest to him, he struggles. Days, months, years may pass. He wonders if the dream was real; if he's got the passion to create a masterpiece at all.

One small beginning to the next, what has lived in his imagination now starts to take form. Another wave of inspiration comes...a word of encouragement...God's Spirit moves him, through him until it is finished.

The artist steps back, wipes his stained hands against his sweaty brow and smiles. His heart swells in thanksgiving for what he held inside for so long is now a reality before him and ready to be shared.

That's how a masterpiece is formed. It begins as thought, an idea, a dream. It becomes a mess. It's labor intensive but God inspired. It inspires others to think, to change, to move.

What is your dream? Is it moving forward or stagnant? Is it time to get messy? Rise up! The world needs to view the masterpiece God meant for you to create.

"For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

" 'What is impossible with man is possible with God.' " Luke 18:27

"Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him." Jeremiah 17:7

Shouldn't I Be Doing Something?

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Colossians 3:17

Sitting in my sanctuary, perched in my favorite, well-worn chair, a cool breeze lends a wispy kiss upon my cheeks. It's quiet here. I welcome the late spring sun as my soul sighs, "All is well."

Tuning out the bustling world around me, I tune into my heart. Conversations from last night encircle my thoughts; talk about the end of the world. Like I found myself last night, I'm shockingly unaffected. It's not that I'm not concerned with the world nor am I ignorant of the global disasters and signs that all is NOT well with this planet. All my life I've been taught this world is temporary. It will end.

But still, here I sit, feeling untouched by this fact except for the guilt creeping in. So, I have a conversation with God. "Lord, if this is the end, shouldn't I be DOING something? Getting my hands dirty saving the world? Exactly what am I supposed to be DOING right now?" So I gather my swirling questions and God harnesses them in the light of Jesus' teaching in Matthew 24-25.

First, "keep watch," Jesus says, "because you do not know on what day your Lord will come" (Matthew 24:42 NIV). Like a servant who continues to keep the master's house in order as he anticipates his return, the faithful servant will not get lazy and let the house fall into ruin. If he does, the master will fire him when he arrives home, unannounced.

Second, invest well. God has sown specialized talents into our DNA. Whether we are artists, writers, builders, accountants, or caregivers we're all specifically gifted for a purpose. Coupled with the power of the Holy Spirit (and God's spiritual gifts) God designed us to do great things, NOW in THIS broken world. It's up to us to accept this spiritual journey of discovering those gifts and allowing the Holy Spirit to work through you. When this happens, God says, "Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness." (Matthew 25:23 NIV)

Finally, serve others don't just talk about it. Wherever we find ourselves, to whomever walks into our world on any day, we are to serve others with whatever means God has given us to serve; even a cup of cold water.

The leaves are rustling outside my window as I ponder God's purpose for me in such a broken world. All may not be well outside my sanctuary, but He reminds me again, that words are powerful. They're meant to be shared whether spoken or written. Harnessed by God's power they refresh others like a cup of cold water; bring healing, hope, and empowerment to a world coming apart at the seams.

Dear reader, I pray you may be refreshed by these words, but most importantly, empowered by them to harness God's gifts sown in you. What does your cup of cold water look like? How will you refresh those around you?

" 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'" (Matthew 25: 40 NIV)

"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father." Matthew 24:36

Winners Not Whiners

"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is Gods will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18

Lately, my husband and I have enjoyed watching The Amazing Race on television. It's a reality show where multiple teams of two (I think it starts with 10 teams) compete to be the first to travel around the world. Each week there are challenges and tasks they must perform as they attempt to reach their destination without elimination. We get a kick watching the different personalities interacting and seeing how they strategized through various challenges.

This past season there was a certain team that was "out there" in every way; by the way they dressed, talked and especially how they interacted with one another. Not wanting to pass judgement on them, I gave them every chance to redeem themselves with each new episode, but by the end they just proved to be the most unhappy, whiniest people I've ever witnessed in real life or on T. V. They were so close to being in the final four but lost the chance when their whiny attitudes over took their good judgement and cost them the race.

In contrast, the top three racing teams remained positive (even joyful) in the midst of struggle, hopeful of their goal, and always thankful for the opportunity to travel the world with the people they loved.

I caught myself whining this morning. I was shocked at how easy it was to start a rant and how difficult it was to turn the struggle into joy. Then, God brought me to Paul's words. Just like us, the first century Christians found it easier to whine about the struggles of life instead of enjoying their new found life in Christ. Paul didn't discount their fears or concerns but rather turned their attention to what really mattered: "Christ in you, the hope of glory" Colossians 1:27b.

That's the prize. That's the goal of this race called Life. Through Christ in us, we bring God's hope, His Kingdom into this hurting, struggling world. Joined with Him we help to bring His redemptive powers, His healing. This Race is so much more than us and all our struggles. It's about the hope of God's glory.

Author Madeline L'Engle sums it up best for me: "(Jesus') joy came from his constant awareness of his Source (God) that takes away our fears and not only allows us, but prods us, even commands us to enjoy our faith."

My Mother's Lap

My mother's lap was just for me when I fell down and skinned my knee.

She'd lift me up and there I'd stay until she brushed each tear away.

Her arms would hold me to her chest and there I'd fall in peaceful rest.

Lulled by her tones of whispered hymn my eyes would close, the lights would dim.

I grew too big to climb upon my mother's lap which soon was gone.

My own sweet babies when they cried did climb upon my lap and hide.

I'd lift them up and dry their tears until their face showed no more fears.

My arms would hold them close to me and there I'd let them sleep and be.

Sweet hymns I'd whisper in their ears, my eyes dampened my cheeks with tears.

I grew too big to climb upon my mother's lap which soon was gone.

But there I was with child on mine singing those songs so lost in time.

My children all have grown and gone, my lap to small to sit upon.

They'll bring their babies home to me and on my lap is where they'll be.

I'll whisper things like "I love you." We'll laugh until our face turns blue.

And when they fall and skin their knee, upon grandmother's lap they'll be.

I grew too big to climb upon my mother's lap which soon was gone.

My children too, have grown like that. My lap's not empty where they sat.

Grandchildren now do take their place and bless my heart, my soul, my face.

'Though years have left their mark on me "The best," I'm told, "is yet to be."

(reposted from Mother's Day 2010)

National Day of Prayer

"May my prayer be set before you like incense; may the lifting up of my hands be like the evening sacrifice." Psalm 141:2

There are no greeting cards, that I know of, designed to celebrate today. There are no gifts to purchase or meals to prepare. But it is a day to honor our God and to humbly stand before him in prayer on behalf of our nation, our leaders and the world. This isn't a new tradition, as I first thought, but began in 1775 when the first Continental Congress called upon the citizens of the first colonies to pray for wisdom in forming this nation we now call home.

As much as modern society would like to claim that mentioning God or any form of religious act like prayer, in government is a breach of our Constitution whereby there should be a separation of church and state, it is evident that faith in God was ingrained in every aspect of the forming of this United States. Lest this become a political rant or a history lesson that you can read at the website http://nationaldayofprayer.org, let me stop.

Unlike other Hallmark-profiting holidays like Halloween, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Grandparent's Day, Children's Day or Love Your Pet Day, today is a sincere call not only to petition God on behalf of our nation but a call to posture ourselves humbly before THE Sovereign God.

Today, we put aside our political party and religious differences to unite as "one nation, under God" to thank Him for our liberties, our freedoms, and to ask for His wisdom for our nation and more personally, for his people. May God be lifted up with our lips and may our lives show it is Him in whom we trust.

"I will say of the Lord, he is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust." Psalm 91:2

"The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective." James 5:16b

Sandwiched

"You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast, because he trusts in you." Isaiah 26:3

If I stay camped inside the wall of emotions that swept over me these past few days I'd never step one foot on the floor. Instead, I'd stay in bed with the covers pulled over my head. Right now that image is inviting as I struggle to shake the fatigue making me feel like a soggy sandwich.

Pressing in on one side are the urgent needs of aging parents. On the other, the emotional support and guidance needed by young adult children; topped with rebuilding a physical structure destroyed by the winter storms and running a small business.

The phone rings and I take a deep breath wondering who's on the other end. Is it the builder with word on the garage? Is it my husband asking for help moving Dad's treasures to safe keeping or asking for help at the office? Is it the nurse watching over a loved one? Is it a parent out of touch with reality talking nonsense? Is it a mother who needs help? Or my child needing empathy, comfort, or advice? Maybe it's my granddaughter calling just to say, "Grams, do you know how much I love you?" I never know these days.

At my weakest moments I fall into my husbands arms weeping, "Where do we turn? Who's there to care for our needs in the middle of all this?" Then, I'm reminded that although I'm walking through this valley, sandwiched between the urgent needs of others and my own, God is right there with me. It sounds cliche but truth is truth. So, my spirit settles down as I grab hold of God's promises held true from ancient times until today.

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified...for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you or forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6

"For the Lord comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones." 

Isaiah 49:13

"...those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not grow faint." 

Isaiah 40:31

Dear reader, may you be comforted with the same words, strengthened by His Spirit, empowered by knowing you never walk alone, renewed for one more moment.

The Splendor of the Earth

"Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these." Luke 12:27

We returned home from a week on the Outer Banks of North Carolina where we enjoyed the change of scenery. We traded the bleak, cold rains of New England spring for the cool, sunny beaches of mid Atlantic islands. The change was welcomed and the adventures of everything new was thoroughly enjoyed, but by the end of the week we were ready to return to the familiar.

After twelve hours of driving in drizzle and cold winds, I wondered if we should have stayed. But, as I stepped out of the truck, welcomed by the smells of home, I knew I was in the right place.

I putzed around the house for a few minutes when a tall, slender package leaning against the living room sofa caught my eye. I read the return address label and instantly I worried about its fragile contents. Despite the yellow warning label that reassured me I had three weeks before I needed to be concerned, I doubted the survival of my delicate blueberry bushes inside.

Unable to feel the top branches, I carefully sliced open the top of the envelope. I breathed a sigh of relief when tall, fragile branches peeked through, revealing baby white buds and the promise of my favorite summer berries. I could hardly wait to plant those next to my white picket fence.

With the sun shining again the next day, my husband and I caught the planting bug. We dug into the freshly watered soil and laid those delicate bushes in just the right spot. We broke open our seed germinating kits, our packages of vegetable seeds and planted those babies with care making sure they were given the best chance to grow.

We've got great dreams of harvesting some luscious fruits and vegetables this summer and fall. But, when it comes down to it, nothing depends on us except for the sowing of seeds, the transplanting into fertile soil and the pulling of weeds. The rest is up to God, really; to provide the sun, the rain, the growth.

A beautiful garden is truly breath-taking to me, whether flowers or vegetables. It amazes me how from a tiny seed that looks like nothing but a pebble or a grain of sand, amazing beauty and deliciousness emerges in just a short time. If God takes such care to pack all that into a tiny seed of fruit, how much more is He concerned for the promise of beauty packed inside each one of us?

"If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you?" Luke 12:28

Struggling With Prayer

"In the same way the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans." Romans 8:26

I don't know how to pray or what to pray for. I look at my loved one who has suffered so much this winter and I'm speechless. Is it right to pray for healing when living means only to exist in the memories of what has passed? Is it right to ask God to bring new life into one that has already lived a good many years? We were created to live forever, I'll agree, but not forever in a broken, earthly body, on this planet in this present time.

So, when I sit to pray for this sickly loved one, I seldom find the words. On occasion when I do find words, I struggle with the guilt of asking for their graceful departure from this world. To sit and watch someone you love gasp for air, sleep their days away or claim no recollection of the conversation they were having with you just a moment ago makes me realize the cruelty of life.

Finally, I confided with a wise and godly woman, known for her gift of intercessory prayer and healing, about my struggle with prayer. While she agrees that God is in the business of healing, the will of the suffering person must align with the will to live in order for healing to come. If they no longer wish to live, then our prayers for healing are for naught. Instead, pray for God to ease their suffering quickly. It is no use to pray for healing if someone doesn't desire restoration or a prolonged life. There does come a time in all our lives when we will tire of living.

It's still not easy to pray for the suffering or to watch the suffering. But now, when I do pray, I pray for God's grace to ease the pain, to shorten the suffering; wisdom for the living and strength to those who will remain.

"I urge you brothers and sisters, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to join me in my struggle by praying to God for me." Romans 15:30

"And I pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for the Lord's people." Ephesians 6:18

Changing Seasons

"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens." Ecclesiastes 3:1

The season has changed. New growth sprouts silently from the muddied ground, leaf buds give life to barren branches; missing birds return, sleepy animals emerge from their slumber. The timeless evidence is unmistaken; it's spring.

It didn't announce its return with any loud fanfare. Instead, it crept in unnoticeably silent. We anticipated its appearance and yet for some reason, we were surprised to witness those first signs.

Isn't it that way with the changing seasons of our lives, too? The spring of our lives is full of growth and changes celebrated with great applause and recognition. All our needs and wants are met (hopefully) by loving parents. In summer we're independent, busy raising our own children, barely taking time to stop and glance into the mirror. Then fall arrives. Life slows down a bit. We take time for "us" and reevaluate where it is we're headed. We finally take time to look at our reflections. At first we're startled to see our mother or father staring back at us. Quickly coming to our senses we wonder, "When did all those gray hairs and wrinkles appear?" Ah yes, those timeless signs of change crept in unnoticeably silent.

My husband and I have watched winter from a distance for awhile, now. It began as a season of perpetual light with our parents enjoying the harvest of a growing, extended family. They're faces glowed and, except for the crowns of snow on their heads, they seemed younger to me. However, in these past few years, the storms have come with greater frequency. The winter winds are now howling. Timeless signs of change are no longer silent but rather roaring in like a hungry lion. They just can't weather these storms alone any longer.

Recently, God reminded me of His design for family; how we are to care for one another in every season of life. In the Ten Commandments God wrote, "Honor your father and mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you." (Exodus 20:12). Unfortunately, our modern families have grown farther apart by distance and dysfunction. We've focused on ourselves ("me") so much that we've forgotten who gave us life. We've forgotten that honoring our father and mother applies to us until their death. Paul says it more pointedly in his first letter to Timothy, "If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever." (1 Tim. 5:8). In other words, if we call ourselves Christians but don't care for your closest relatives, then we're hypocrites. Ouch!

I'll admit, winter is a tough season. The storms are frequent and harsh. But weathered together, surrounded by those you love gives you strength. It makes the season more bearable. Like every season, winter doesn't last forever. Silently, from beneath the snow, new life begins.

"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)

"Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for Gods wrath remains on them." (John 3:36)

"And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son." 1 John 5:11

Silence, Rest and Solitary Places

" 'Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.' So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place." Mark 6: 31b-32

Silence. Pure quiet, hear-my-own-heartbeat silence is where I'm most comfortable. Silence is where I rest. Silence is where I gather insights through reading. Silence is where I process life. Silence is where my heart talks and my hands write. Silence is where I hear God whisper loud and clear.

So much of life is full of noise. Screeching sirens, clacking train tracks, engine whistles, honking horns, people walking, children crying, people talking, talking, talking; talking to me or talking at me in real life or on T. V. It's all the same. It's all noise.

When Jesus was at the peak of his ministry his days were full of people, noise and activity. He traveled miles in a day, teaching and performing miracles along the way. People as demanding as the paparazzi followed him around the countryside hoping for a glimpse, a touch, or a word. By the end of the day, he said to his disciples, "I'm beat. Let's get outta here!" Okay, maybe not those exact words but that's what he would've said in modern-day English. In those moments, he taught us all a great lesson: Rest comes when we retreat to a solitary place, with Him.

Today has been one of those solitary days. I've rested...retreated most of the day with only the sound of the ticking clock and the flame of the pellet stove for noise. My mind is rejuvenated; thoughts are flowing and I'm able to gain perspective on things that have been mulling around inside my head. My spirit is fed and while I'm digesting, new ideas are born. That's the creative process of silence.

Jesus knew the importance of silence and the creative process. Without both work and rest, our creativity suffers. Work allows our thoughts, ideas, visions to become tangible objects. But rest is where more thoughts, ideas and visions germinate.

We don't have to be secluded or alone to enjoy the benefits of rest. Jesus rested while he was surrounded by his dearest friends. He even invited them to his solitary place. We too, can enjoy silence, rest and take those we love with us. There are many nights my husband and I spend hours, shoulder-to-shoulder, in silence. We enjoy the presence of one another without speaking a word.

Other times, maybe in the instance of this scripture today, our rest includes decompressing together from the hard day in the seclusion of our living room. We block out the world and share stories of big and small victories or put our hearts out on the table when it's been less than a stellar day. We laugh. We cry. We disagree. We listen. We encourage. We come together. We rest. We end the day together in silence.

Don't fear the silence but relish it. Take full advantage of time, however small or large the chunk, go to a solitary place (even the bathroom) and sit in silence. Allow the day to drain from your veins and invite God's whispers to fill your heart. It's in these moments of rest where God's seed can germinate and we are prepared for the work ahead.

Hope of Spring

"See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone. Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come." Song of Solomon 2: 11-12a

It was a wonder this weekend witnessing the rapid disappearance of those six foot mountains of dirty snow beneath the thick blanket of fog. What a joy it was to look out my front window and see the bushes, the green lawn and the neighborhood kids playing outside. The calendar is marked...thirteen days and counting...spring will officially be here!

But let's let that be our little secret. You see, today all hope returned when I pulled into my driveway to find spring had already sprung. To my surprise, I witnessed the dainty, lavendar and white heads of waving crocuses, lining the edge of my front flower bed to welcome me home. At first I wasn't sure I'd seen them so I backed up to make sure my eyes weren't just seeing what I was hoping for. Sure enough. There they were, waving back at me.

Oh! The first signs of spring bring such celebration. I guarantee you I celebrated by doing a little jig on the way into the house. My hopes for longer days, warmer temperatures, the smell of fresh cut grass, the hot sun on my face, building sand castles and pushing my grandchildren on the swings return all at once and filled my heart with joy.

It's been a long, cold winter but the promise of spring is here. It's happened without any effort of our own. It's been orchestrated by the Creator...our Creator...the one who formed us in our mother's womb...who numbered the very hairs on our head...who wrote down our days before we lived them and already knows the end of our story. That's no secret at all...

Thumper's Rule

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing." 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Lately, I'm so disappointed in FaceBook statuses. I agree, it's been a long, cold, snowy winter in just about every state in these United States and we're all experiencing a bad case of cabin fever by now. We've watched our share of old movies from our dvd libraries and the next NetFlix mailing isn't coming in fast enough to keep up with all the snow days. Our favorite spot in front of the fire isn't as appealing or as soothing as it was in January and our bottoms are spreading out from all the hot chocolate we've consumed. But seriously folks, what's with all the whining?

Is it that misery loves company so when we see one of our friends whining about the cold, the snow, the irritating habits of our spouses or our kids that we feel we must out-do each other and one-up the whine on our own FB status? Trust me, there are days I've said a hardy "AMEN" to many of my FB friends' status reports. I've even felt the need to air my gloomy moods in hopes to make myself feel better but when I typed in my complaint, it only made me feel worse. Besides, I thought, "Who cares?"

Rather than add to the long list of whiney drivel on my Home Page, I've challenged myself to add some sunshine or stick to Thumper's Rule: "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all," (Disney's Bambi).

Please, don't get me wrong. I find FB a wonderful tool to ask for help or prayer for a legitimate concern. What better way to encourage a long distance friend or to see God's hand at work through a tough situation?

As Christians, we're called to lift each other up and encourage one another in our faith with acts of love and through encouraging words. Let's challenge one another to use our FB status' to do just that.

I Just Couldn't Wait Another Day!

"Enoch walked faithfully with God; and then he was no more because God took him away." Genesis 5:24

The first year Peter and I were dating I was "between" colleges. That means I took a year off after earning my associates degree to figure out life. He was a college freshman, 400 miles from home. That year our love survived the distance through Sunday night phone calls, love letters and gifts via snail mail, and occasional visits. As each visit approached I remember saying, "I just can't wait another day!" And when we did see each other, the reunion was sweet.

Love does that...makes you yearn to be in the company of your beloved until you just can't stand to be apart anymore and you go to them.

God loved Enoch that way; not romantically, of course, but in a way that caused God to snatch Enoch from where he stood on earth, fore go death, and bring him into His presence in heaven. Now that's the way to go!

This story of Enoch fascinates me so much that if time travel existed, I'd leap back in time to the day or so before God took Enoch. I'd study Enoch and try to figure out what he did that stole God's heart. I want to know what caused God not to wait another day to be with Enoch.

While I wait for my time machine, all I have to go on is what's written in the Bible. There's not a whole lot written about Enoch, but here's a few facts: he was the great, great, great, great grandson of Adam (Luke 3:36-38). He faithfully walked with God and this pleased God (Genesis 5:22, 24; Hebrews 11:5). He became father to Methuselah at age 65 ( Genesis 5:21) and 300 years later, (middle-aged for that time) "he was no more because God took him away" (Genesis 5:22-24). He prophesied about the second coming of Christ (Jude 1:14).

To know Enoch means it's more about reading between the lines. First, Enoch inherited faith from his fathers. Second, Enoch's faith was active. Scripture says "he...walked with God" which gives us the impression that Enoch considered God as the center of his life, his confidante, his guide; he took God everywhere he went and included Him in everything. Third, Enoch's faith was deeply rooted. He grew in his faith for 365 years. In that time, just like us, his faith must have been tested, matured, refined. Finally, Enoch knew God's heart intimately; spent time talking with Him and listening to Him. If this were not so, God would not have entrusted His words of prophesy to Enoch.

I may not escape death like Enoch but when I come face-to-face with God, may I hear "I just couldn't wait another day!" How sweet that reunion will be. (And certainly, I'll be looking for Enoch)!