Flashlight ... taking one step at a time

Anguish

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 21:58:00 +0000

I waited patiently for the LORD to help me,
and he turned to me and heard my cry.
He lifted me out of the pit of despair,
out of the mud and the mire.
He set my feet on solid ground
and steadied me as I walked along.
He has given me a new song to sing,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see what he has done and be amazed.
They will put their trust in the LORD.
Psalm 40:1-3 (NLT)

Next week I'm leading a seminar entitled Anguish of the Soul at our Women's Retreat. Each attendee received a list with a brief synopsis of the various offerings and chose two. Mine read:

David found himself caught in the darkness of the pit in Psalm 40 with no way out. In his anguish, he cried out to the Lord for help even as despair threatened to overwhelm him. God heard those pleas, pulled him out, and set his feet on firm ground. For some of us, that pit may come in the form of depression; slimy and dark that blots out all light, takes away joy, and leaves an unrelenting hopelessness in its wake. In the midst of the deep pain, loved ones are often confused and frightened as the murky shadows threaten to obscure any normalcy. I know because I've been there. Join me as we journey together from the dark moments of the soul into the light of God's hope and help.

Eight women signed up and I know two. I've spent the week filtering through my notes and compiling my outline and handouts. My heart's desire is to encourage these women and offer hope and knowledge as they walk either in the shadows or are in the pit themselves. It is a lonely place to be, often kept secret due to fear or shame. When I was walking that scary road, I didn't know what was even going on; a name for it would have helped. My goal is to shine the light of God's love and compassion to dispel those fears and help these ladies open up their hearts to His healing. God promises us solid ground and a new song after our time in the pit. My prayer is to get a new singing group going.

Cowgirls All

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 22:52:00 +0000

A good man leaves an inheritance [of moral stability and goodness] to his children's children. Proverbs 13:22 (Amplified Bible)

Oh, the excitement of a ten year old. Kate, as my oldest granddaughter, knew the meaning of undivided attention as a little one, but in recent years she assumed the position as "cruise director" for her two sisters and planned all their activities. However, on this trip, life revolved around her and she ate it up. Literally. Whatever she wanted to eat, or do, or see was hers for the asking. We watched more horses in both the parade and the rodeo, ate funnel cake and local barbecue, watched movies from Blockbuster, spent a day doing girl stuff (museum, shopping, lunch), and learned to bake apple dumplings. By the time she was tucked in bed, I was already headed to mine.

One of the great pleasures of grandparenting is the ability to lavish love on my girlies without any responsibility for their behavior; that job is up to Mom and Dad. But my heart's desire it to leave an inheritance that is far greater than a sum of money. I want my girls to know my Jesus and with courage and strength from above, to walk in a way that shows them how important it is to follow and obey God. I pray that each grandgirlie will hear me speak kindly, be generous, offer help, show mercy, be a friend, forgive easily, keep short accounts of any wrongs, and know that they can trust God to lead them throughout life's journey.

As I watched the plane take off returning its precious cargo, my Kate, to her home, I already missed her. Her love of life filled our house for a few days and brought such joy. She is welcome any time.

Listen Up!

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 22:30:00 +0000

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23-24 (NIV)

I was taken by surprise when I exited the Denver airport this past weekend. Out of the corner of my mind's eye, I saw a little girl running on chubby legs, arms up, yelling, "Nana, Nana, Nana," and throwing herself into my outstretched arms. Kate was fifteen months old at the time. Tomorrow, we pick her up at the Phoenix airport, a grown-up young lady of ten, who will travel alone for the second time. She is headed here for the weekend to attend the Tucson Rodeo, a gift for her birthday. How time flies!

There is no pretense in Kate – what you see is what you get. She goes all out for whatever strikes her fancy whether it is horses, or books, of cooking, or music, or swimming, or even shopping. Kate believes she can do just about anything, even if she has never tried it before. I remember watching her pitch at her softball game last summer, never having even thrown the ball in practice. She was sure she could do it…until the coach put her in the game. Cold, hard reality hit and I read the consternation on her face. All of a sudden, the old adage, practice, practice, practice, took on new meaning.

How many times do we head off over the cliff without checking our egos at the door, assuming success?

In need of some time alone, Jesus took three disciples with him up on a mountain to pray. The three fell asleep and when they awoke, they observed Moses, Elijah, and a transformed Jesus talking. Always impetuous and in awe of the men before him, Peter lobbied to build shelters as memorials for the three and wouldn't stop talking about it. Finally, God, Almighty, appeared in a cloud and spoke, " This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to him." (Luke 9:35) Imagine Peter's reaction. I wonder if he felt foolish? Rather than telling the others, we know from scripture that they kept it all to themselves, probably a good idea.

Parents love seeing enthusiasm in their children. I'm sure God shook his head at Peter and chuckled. He would be that kind of kid who threw himself wholeheartedly into any fray. However, God knew that time, circumstances, and training would temper that reckless abandon in Peter and smooth out the rough edges. He had a plan for Peter and his role as leader and spokesman for the Gospel emerged as he learned to listen to the One who had the answers for eternal life.

The moral of the story...listen up!

Snow Fun

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 19:06:00 +0000

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Hebrew 12:1-2 (NLT)

Snow in 50 states? Although a dusting of snow covers the Catalina Mountains that surround our home, I'm glad I live in Arizona. Being a California girl, snow was a choice and shoveling, chaining, heavy clothes, and COLD are good for about three days and then I'm done. The weatherman has predicted temperatures in the 70's for the rest of the week.

My grandgirlies and family spent a weekend in Lake Tahoe a couple of weeks ago. They emailed pictures and videos and I loved all the smiles and whoops of laughter. Tori, my middle granddaughter, later enthusiastically shared how much fun it had been. She spent the day sliding down the hill in a big purple saucer but added, "It was a lot of work to go back up the hill." I asked her whether the heavy clothes and boots she had to wear might have made the trip harder. She readily agreed that they were a pain but reiterated all the extra effort was worth it.

Life often mimics a roller coaster with the ups and downs coming faster than we can handle. Just when we seem to have things under control, the phone rings, the mail arrives, or the doorbell chimes and our world is turned upside down. Paul reminds us that we are not in this rat race alone. However, if we don't let go of those things that bog us down – our failures, worries, and fears – they're going to trip us up. Drop that weight at the foot of the cross and focus on the One who loves you and is your biggest cheerleader. Run!

Bo

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 01:38:00 +0000

God gives, God takes. God's name be ever blessed. Job 1:21 (The Message)

There are times when I want to ask God, "When is enough, enough?"

I received an email from my daughter that a very good friend, the principal of my grandgirlies school, suffered a tragic loss today. Her sweet dog, Bo, was killed in a car accident. As devastating as that is all by itself, this dog was the darling of the school. He was only a couple of years old and began "attending" school as a puppy; sitting quietly in his carrier until the bell rang for "recess". All the kids loved him and my grandgirlies even enjoyed play dates at the park with Bo. We're not really a "dog" family but he was given a special dispensation and had the run of the house whenever he stopped by for a visit.

So how does a child express sorrow? Because most have little experience with this kind of emotion, it was suggested that they draw a picture or write a note to give to my friend. That's probably a good idea for all of us rather than stuffing emotions that are hard to handle. My prayer is that although tomorrow will be a day of sadness, tears, stories, and hugs, it will also be the beginning of the healing process and a lessening of the pain.

One of the lessons I taught my kids is that life is not fair. This latest tragedy seems like the last straw after a very tough week for all of them. There is no explanation, no reasoning. Just the simple fact that God does what He sees as best and we are to bless His name…no matter what.

Enjoy doggy heaven, Bo.

Out of Focus

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 17:26:00 +0000

Pursue the things over which Christ presides. Don't shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up, and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that's where the action is. See things from his perspective. Colossians 3:2 (The Message)

I went to a chick flick with a friend yesterday and saw the movie, Leap Year. It was the classic girl wants to get married but boy is slow to make a move. In some very funny scenes, she takes things into her own hands, suffers the consequences of her decision, and ends up changing her mind. Doesn’t that sound just like a woman?

But, why did she change her mind? She was challenged by the antagonist to look at what was most important in her life. He asked her what she would save if her apartment caught on fire. As she thought about it, she realized that the answer was nothing. She had no life and the life she thought she wanted was empty.

Doesn't that sound like most of us as we cruise through daily activities? We work, and scrimp and save for the next biggest and greatest only to find that once we have it, there is no satisfaction and we start the process all over.

All the to-do's set up on our calendars, the outings with friends and family, the carefully planned vacations, and even our own personal desires can go up in flames in the blink of an eye.

So what should we be doing? Where do we put our energy? Paul answers the question…it is in Jesus.

Want to be part of the action? Change your focus. Make decisions with the long view of life knowing that His way is really best. He will guide you and satisfy the desires of your heart.

Be Still

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 18:16:00 +0000

Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the LORD will bring you today...The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still." Exodus 14:13-14 (NIV)

In our fast-paced world, "being still" has become an art form. Cable news with 24-hour coverage doesn't help. Neither does the instant access to updates via facebook, twitter, or the iPhone. Information bombards us all the time, whether we want it or not. My daughter, in an effort to protect the girlies, turns the TV off when the news comes on (a challenge for me when visiting...the news junkie). However, I understand. The violence, murder and mayhem, war, and politics that splash across the screen add an undercurrent of fear and instability to their world that they don't need.

The enemy seeks ways to destroy us and seems to find our most vulnerable spots. Many years ago, when I was much younger and more naïve, I thought that with enough time, energy, and money, I could solve any problem. Wrong! We can't do it by ourselves.

Our marching orders are to stand firm, rejecting the temptations of power, fame, money, or position. We must be patient and unafraid and watch with anticipation as He steps in and fights the battle. Sometimes it takes minutes. Sometimes it takes months or even years, but victory is assured. I encourage you to take time to be still in His presence. Watch and see what He will do.

New Normal

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 16 Jan 2010 18:53:00 +0000

The valleys will be filled,
and the mountains and hills made level.
The curves will be straightened,
and the rough places made smooth.
Luke 3:5 (NLT)

My friend, Jan, is a brand new grandmother of a baby girl. She has been hanging around in cold Colorado since Christmas, awaiting the birth of this precious baby rather than enjoying the warmth and sun of Arizona. However, I know the feeling. The expectation and joy are overwhelming and you just need to be there.

My daughter was born on January 10th so I can really relate to the timing of this grandbaby. I remember how long the days seemed after the rush of the Christmas holidays ended, before the arrival of this new little one in our home. Then once she was here, I could never seem to catch up. In the back of my mind, I would ask myself if things were ever going to get back to normal.

When Mel was about 6 weeks old, I was rocking her after the 2 AM feeding and looking at her sleeping face in the moonlight. I kept thinking of all undone things that stared back at me each day: laundry, shopping, cooking, cleaning…. actually anything. For the thousandth time, I wondered if things were ever going to get back to normal. As I sat there praying, I realized that no, it would never be the same. I felt as if my Heavenly Father said to me, "We are going to now have a 'new' normal around here and the sooner you accept that premise, the more contented you will be." That night was a turning point and the daily demands began to fall into place.

I have since found out that we have "new normals" all of our life. Some are easy and fun, some are not and the adjustments can be difficult at any age. But, the glue that holds it all together is the God who gives us strength each day. He is the one who smoothes the rough path and makes it straight.

This baby is well loved by all around her. So are we.

A Cup of Cold Water

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 01:38:00 +0000

And whoever gives just a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is a disciple—I assure you: He will never lose his reward!" Matthew 10:42 (HCSB)

Nine days before our wedding, Mark suffered his second heart attack. I cancelled all of our California wedding plans and flew out to Memphis, where he lived. From the moment I walked into the hospital room, he began to rally and we did get married on the day we had planned—only in Memphis. For a California girl, from the Bay Area no less, it was a bit of a culture shock to find myself smack dab in the middle of the South for seven weeks as Mark recuperated from not only the heart attack but also a bout of pneumonia.

But I enjoyed my time in Memphis and all things southern: the food, BBQ (the noun, not the verb), azaleas, the drawl where one word could have three or four syllables, the ducks at the Peabody, great jazz, and a church on every block. Everyone goes to church on Sunday and lunch reservations are often the hottest ticket in town—or else you better get there early.

Today, we finally saw a movie that I have been trying to see for several weeks, The Blind Side. I like Sandra Bullock and I knew it was a heartwarming story about a family from Memphis. Bullock played the part of a southern "mama" to a young black man that she noticed walking along the road one night. After she picked him up, it was obvious that he had no hope and little to offer, but she brought home and gave him a warm bed. I could say it was just that old southern-hospitality thing, but I would rather believe that she was willing to offer a cup of cold water to someone in need. He stayed and the family learned the meaning of love in a way they never expected and that seemed foreign to their family and friends.

That young man, Michael Oher, is a testimony to the power of God when we are willing to go the extra mile. His success was not without a lot of personal hard work, but in the process he learned the meaning of both courage and honor, along with love.

I encourage you to see the movie. Take a couple of tissues—mine were soggy at the end. And…be on the watch for someone who might be thirsty.

Hi, Nana!

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:15:00 +0000

Similarly, teach the older women to live in a way that honors God…they should teach others what is good. Titus 2:3 (NLT)

I received my first email written by my almost-10-year-old granddaughter, Kate. She mentioned a few days ago that she needed to practice her typing so would be sending me an email. Would I like to write back to her? It just warmed the cockles of this Nana's heart to be asked to share in her life this way. I have a friend who is a pen pal to her two granddaughters and I have often thought what a wonderful way to speak into their lives in a loving and thoughtful way.

I had to laugh as I read Kate's message, detailing her school activities and plans for making Christmas presents for her sisters. However, the best part was the PS: Ask me questions to answer! That's my girl.

I feel the weight of the charge by Paul that the older women are to teach what is good. Today's world looks nothing like my world did as a fourth grader. Kate will face challenges that I never even contemplated – and it will hit her soon. What a privilege and opportunity to ask her what she is thinking and offer her guidance as she reflects on hopes and dreams, relationships, attitudes, and decisions.

My grandgirlie loves life and nothing is better than picking up the phone and hearing, "Hi, Nana!" Now I look forward to those emails with the latest rundown on her world of school, horses, church, sisters, piano, guitar or the latest book she is reading.

"Father, give me wisdom to meet her questions with answers from You and Your Word."

Songs in the Night

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 14:42:00 +0000

People cry out when they are oppressed.
They groan beneath the power of the mighty.
Yet they don’t ask, ‘Where is God my Creator,
the one who gives songs in the night?'

Job 35:9-10 (NLT)

Over dinner the other night, a discussion with friends turned to sleep patterns. I had climbed out of bed that morning, noting three o'clock beaming from the clock in the darkened bedroom. I was wide-awake, knowing it was really too early to get up, but refusing to lie there and toss and turn for the next couple of hours. For several months, sleep has been a challenge. It began during the depths of Mark's depression. I would lie in bed, tense and watchful, listening to him wander around in the middle of the night. This went on for several months until we figured out he needed some help and medicine. Finally, he could sleep but I still struggle.

Our Bible study is finishing up a study of the Psalms, taught by Beth Moore. The first verse of Psalm 134 caught my attention this morning as I worked on my lesson. Praise the LORD, all you servants of the LORD who minister by night in the house of the LORD. Night—the time of day I dread the most. Yet, God has work for us to do at night and expects us to do it with praise. That stopped me since I don't like the night. However, there was more…I discovered that He gives songs in the night.

As I thought about the songs we sing, I realized that the most meaningful words often come from the depths of our hearts in the silence of darkened sky, alone, and afraid. The enemy loves to get us in this spot and distract us, but he sure can't help. Only God is there to listen and comfort us. He turns our cry into praise and gives us songs in the night when we lift our hearts to Him. I've decided to do some songwriting the next time sleep eludes me. Want to start a choir?

Disgrace or Grace?

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 23:22:00 +0000

LORD, if You considered sins,
Lord, who could stand?

But with You there is forgiveness,
so that You may be revered.

Psalm 130:3-4 (HCSB)

A very disheartened and discouraged Peter slips away from his accusers after seeing Jesus. He knows that he disappointed his Master, which was especially humiliating after boasting in front of everyone that he would never do such a thing. How would anyone ever be able to trust him again, particularly Jesus? Had he ruined all possibility of working with the others to spread the Good News? Should he just go back to fishing? I know the feeling.

God says He hates divorce; I have been there and understand the feelings of regret, sorrow, and resignation that accompany failure. I know I felt that maybe God had nothing more for me to do because of my situation, particularly any ministry for Him. I carried my disgrace like a big D on my forehead. I wanted and accepted His forgiveness but I didn't understand His grace.

But, Jesus is all about grace. After His resurrection, the angel tells the women who had gone early to the open tomb, "Now go and tell his disciples, including Peter, that Jesus is going ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there, just as he told you before he died." (Mark 16:7.) Including Peter. He was not forgotten. He was not put on the shelf. He was not an outcast. In fact, he was given special notice to join the other disciples in Galilee. Jesus had work for him to do but Peter realized that he HAD to depend Him if he was going to be of any use. He couldn't do it on his own.

God not only forgives, He forgets. I struggle with both on occasion, but I'm learning that His grace is enough. I also discovered that He can use all of our experiences if we are willing to trust Him with the good and bad in our lives. Nothing is wasted. Disgrace is reversed through grace. May His glory shine.

Sarah and Peter

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:50:00 +0000

Peter replied, "Man, I don't know what you're talking about!" Just as he was speaking, the rooster crowed. The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: "Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times." And he went outside and wept bitterly. Luke 22:60-62 (NIV)

This has been the week of Sarah Palin. Her book, Going Rogue, hit the bookstores and the media has gone crazy. Whether you love her or hate her, you have to admire the grit and determination she shows under this intense scrutiny. She has been fearless in her opinions, humble when wrong, a mother cub in defense of her children, and charming to the end. Sarah and Peter have a lot in common.

While reading through the New Testament this fall, I noticed that Peter is present at all the important moments with Jesus, either the go-to-guy or the one taking the fall. He, too, was fearless, rash, passionate, and charming; he never did things half way. Who went over the side of the boat and walked on water? Who wanted to take all his clothes off and be washed rather than just his feet? Who predicted that he would never deny the Lord? Never!

Yet, as we take a peek into the courtyard of the high priest where the soldiers took the captured Jesus, we find Peter standing around the fire with the other guys. Somehow, he had managed to slip in unnoticed to see what was going on. But this time, he blew it. Afraid and unwilling to stand up for his Master, he denied being a follower and even knowing Jesus. Then the cock crowed and he looked across the courtyard into the eyes of Jesus.

During my childhood and youth, my family attended a huge church in Los Angeles in the days before anyone ever heard of a mega-church. Even though my dad may have been sitting across the auditorium and down a floor, I could see "the look" if he caught me whispering to my friend during the service. He didn't have to say a word. Instantly, I knew that I was in for it and better be quiet. I imagine Peter felt the same way. Caught! And, by the One he loved with all of his heart. No wonder he left broken hearted.

Been there? This story doesn't end in disgrace but in forgiveness. Check back for part two.

We are Free

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 15:47:00 +0000

It is absolutely clear that God has called you to a free life. Just make sure that you don't use this freedom as an excuse to do whatever you want to do and destroy your freedom. Rather, use your freedom to serve one another in love; that's how freedom grows. Galatians 5:13 (The Message)

During our vacation last week, we spent a lot of time glued to the TV, either watching the horrors of a terrorist's actions on an Army base or hours of debate on an ambiguous health care bill. It appears that our sense of safety and security in this land of the free and home of the brave is shaky. Yet, as I proudly raised my flag on Veteran's Day, I reflected on the willingness of men and women to sacrifice their lives for my freedom. What a privilege, but also what a responsibility.

I remember telling my children, as they were growing up, that if they proved themselves to be responsible, then certain privileges would follow. However, if they chose to break the rules, it would be a long time before I could trust them again with those same freedoms. Curfew is a good example. The same holds true in our Christian walk. God made us to be free and gave us power over all that we could see. However, Adam and Eve chose to break the rules and ruin the perfect environment that God made for them. The consequences follow us to this day.

Paul, in Galatians, can't figure out why these new Christians are going back to their old sinful ways. He reminds the new Church again and again that the rules of the law have been met in Jesus. It is faith that has made us whole. We are free.

The same Heavenly Father who created us will continue to hold us when our world looks unstable. I encourage you to take Paul's admonition and don't fall back on old habits that bind. It is only in freedom that we are able to serve.

Quick Reply

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 13:23:00 +0000

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24 (NIV)

Some days it seems like my prayers barely get past the ceiling fan of my den. I realize that God can choose several ways to answer me but being the typical, impatient first-born, I prefer to have it right here and right now. My Heavenly Father must shake His head at my arrogance just like I laugh at my youngest grandgirlie's impertinence on occasion. However, this week I learned a great lesson and it all had to do with attitude. Was I going to be in charge or was I going to turn the situation over to the Master Fixer? More often, than I care to admit, my thoughts, opinions, and desires overshadow those close to me. And when I'm hurt, the feelings spill out in unhelpful ways. I may be right but at great cost to my relationships.

As I was praying about a particular situation, confessing my part but also pleading for some help, the Holy Spirit calmed my heart and gave me some ideas. I knew they were from Him because it was not my inclination to do it this way, but decided to try it. Would you believe that in less than 60 minutes I had an answer to my prayer? Sometimes He requires patience. And, sometimes the answer is "no". Yet, this time He was gracious and gave me a quick answer. Thank you, Lord!

Pay attention to His still, small voice and don't lose heart when you pray to your Heavenly Father. Believe Him and watch for your answer. It may be just around the corner.

Te Deum

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 22:33:00 +0000

In thee, O LORD, do I put my trust: let me never be put to confusion. Psalm 71:1 (KJV)

The lyrics and melody of Te Deum by Mark Hayes echo through my heart and mind today. It is a special choral work that we will sing tomorrow for Reformation Sunday. Not an easy piece, it has taken extra rehearsals and time spent working at home to learn my part. As I listen to the soaring orchestral accompaniment, chills run up my spine at the beauty and majesty of those ancient words and glorious harmonies.

It has not been an easy week and without my faith and trust in the One who holds the universe in His hands, I would be a mess…and, sometimes I am. It is so easy to fall back into old patterns of worry and fear particularly over things we have absolutely no control over. Some unforeseen health problems have popped up. Two doctors visits later and I still have few answers. As I lay in bed last night praying, giving over my fears and worries to my Heavenly Father, the soothing words of this majestic piece washed over me:

O Lord in Thee have I trusted

Let me never be confounded

O Lord in Thee I trust

I trust in Thee.

This is the prayer of my heart whether the world looks rosy and all is well or it is eclipsed by sorrow and trouble. God is not hiding; He IS there. Don't be confused by all the "noise" of daily life but focus on the Light of the world, Jesus. He will lead us through. Trust Him.

Just One Moment, Please

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:31:00 +0000

Jesus turned around, and when he saw her he said, “Daughter, be encouraged! Your faith has made you well.” And the woman was healed at that moment. Matthew 9:22 (NLT)

It seems like every time I sit down at the computer to write a blog, something comes up. Company visited us from California for a few days followed by numerous appointments, technology failures, and a headache that just won't go away. There is also the small voice in my head that says, "who reads this anyway?" In a word, I'm discouraged about this writing thing.

I received an email from a friend, a published author of many books and articles, bemoaning her lack or any recent publication. Everyone is tightening their belts in this economy – even magazines. She, too, was discouraged.

Anyone watching the news has every reason to be disconcerted. The market is up—the market is down. Fire destroys homes and floods threaten to follow. Do you get one flu shot or two? Peace is elusive and war looms all over the world. Health care? It's enough to make you want to crawl back into bed and pull the covers over your head.

The story of the woman in the Matthew verses reveal that she had suffered from terrible health issues for years, basically losing hope. Yet, she heard stories about this man, Jesus, who healed people. If she could just get close enough to touch even the hem of his robe, she knew He could help her. Yes, He felt her presence in the crowd as some of His power had been drawn out and He knew that her inner struggles were as great as her physical ones. As He turned and sought her out, His first words to her were ones of encouragement and then He graciously healed her.

What if He had decided not to heal her? How many times do we look at our circumstances and feel cheated or discouraged? We try and try and nothing changes so then we lose hope. Rather than trying, we should be trusting in Great Healer. He knows just what we need. Jesus gave her the greater gift of encouragement because of her faith. And, it is that same faith that gives us the courage to keep putting one foot in front of the other. We have hope.

First Impressions

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 21:20:00 +0000

For the LORD your God is a merciful God. He will not leave you or destroy you or forget the covenant with your fathers that he swore to them. Deuteronomy 4:31 (ESV)

Do you have your act together? My friend thinks I do, but I know better. If you look like you have things under control, people often assume that you do.

Clothes, hair, and makeup create that first impression. The next step occurs when you invite people over for dinner. You are either chef extraordinaire or you reheat well. Your house is tidy or messy. Your children are well behaved or not.

We may be able to hide or disguise all that's visible but it's the personality quirks that get in the way of our "perfection." Are we bossy, nosey, late, irritable, unfriendly, or gossipy?

I forgot an appointment with my friend (the one who thinks I never mess up.) And, to top it off, this was the third time I had forgotten a date with her. What's up with that? Nothing irritates me more than irresponsibility and now I have to eat humble pie. With a grateful heart, my dear friend forgave me one more time.

Because I have accepted Christ as my Savior, I am a child of the new covenant and His mercy wipes away my imperfections. He forgives me, picks me up when I fall, and puts me back on the His path. How can we do less with each other?

Birthdays

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 17:38:00 +0000

And a voice from heaven said, “You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy.” Mark 1:11 (NLT)

We had a wonderful, crazy, busy weekend in California celebrating birthdays of some of my favorite people. With never an idle moment the entire weekend, Saturday dawned bright and warm to celebrate Allie's fifth birthday. A pool party with all of her buddies meant that we decorated, ran food and drinks back and forth from the house, snapped pictures of all the key moments, and cleaned up after all the festivities. Home for a quick shower and change, a stop at the stables to watch Kate and Tori show off their riding prowess, and then off to Lodi for a surprise party for my friend who turned 70. We've been friends for forty years and the stories we can tell on each other. Don't ask. However, this was just one day's adventure. Multiply that by three.

As we flew home yesterday, I finally had a few moments to catch up on my Bible reading. The familiar stories in the New Testament (finally made it) washed over me like a breath of fresh air. As I read the story of Jesus' baptism three times in its chronological order, it dawned on me that God, the Father, is saying the same thing about me, his daughter, as He said to Jesus. I am dearly loved, and I bring Him great joy. That's pretty amazing!

Even though it was a mad dash, nothing makes me happier than time spent with family and friends. Imagine how our heavenly Father feels when we seek out time with Him? We bring Him great joy. Even when the schedule is frantic, make time to sit at the feet of Jesus. You'll be refreshed.

One More Time

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 17:18:00 +0000

But as soon as they were at peace, your people again committed evil in your sight, and once more you let their enemies conquer them. Yet whenever your people turned and cried to you again for help, you listened once more from heaven. In your wonderful mercy, you rescued them many times! Nehemiah 9:28 (NLT)

I have been reading through the Bible chronologically, spending all these months in the Old Testament. (I'm almost done and will start the New Testament later this week.) As Nehemiah finished rebuilding of Jerusalem, he gathered everyone together for a great celebration and solemn assembly. In his prayer before the people, he recounts their history and it's not pretty. God was very specific about His rules and the consequences of disobedience but they repeatedly went their own way, often being downright blatant and in your face to God. Many times, God just let the natural consequences run their course watching the people muddle through. Other times, He initiated actions to bring them back, whether it was war, illness, slavery, or death. At times, He got so angry that He was ready to wipe them off the face of the earth but He always relented because He loved them so much.

I noticed a cycle in their story – peace, laziness, temptation, arrogance, disobedience, repercussions, repentance, forgiveness, and back to peace. Sound familiar? Don't we get ourselves in that same cycle on occasion? Because God loves us, He lets us make our own choices – some good and some bad. He wants us to choose to follow Him and not just be robots. Whatever we decide, He never gives up on us. We may be foolish or disobedient but His mercy is there to rescue us, often from ourselves, and return us to the place of peace with Him. Where you are in the cycle? Pray for guidance and wisdom so that you, too, will live in peace.

Small Steps

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 23:16:00 +0000

Do not despise these small beginnings, for the LORD rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand.” Zechariah 4:10 (NLT)

Eight years have passed since that fateful day. Have you forgotten? As the images flash across the television screen of the horror of September 11th, my stomach clenches up. I remember. It was the day our country was thrown into a war that we didn't want. But, as Americans, where freedom means more than life, we marched right into the middle of it rather than running away.

Our lives changed that day in ways that our grandchildren will never see or understand. That week may be the last time in recent history that we can look back and see a united country. Differences fell away as pain enveloped us all. We worked together to pick up the pieces, to heal, and to begin again. Small steps but necessary beginnings for the strength and health of our nation.

Family members still grieve but most of us have moved on with our lives. Have we forgotten? Did we shelve the hurt and disillusionment of that day so that we could return to "normal?"

Tears streamed down my face as I watched the memorial service at the National Cathedral a few days after the attack. The prayers, Bible readings, music, and eulogies all brought us to the feet of the One who is the source of all comfort. God became a common word and faith in Him our only hope.

Yet, eight years later, that unity is gone and we fight in court to keep "In God we Trust" on our coins. The Ten Commandments are ruled unconstitutional resulting in the engraved stone hauled off the steps of a courthouse in Alabama. Children find it easier to get an abortion than an aspirin. Our congressional leaders could not be at greater odds with each other and their constituents.

Edmund Burke said, "All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing." We no longer have the luxury of sitting back and waiting for someone else to do it. Stand up. Speak out. Be informed. Do something, even if it is just a little. Small steps.

Fearless by Max Lucado

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 13:01:00 +0000

We fear being sued, finishing last, going broke; we fear the mole on the back, the new kid on the block, the sound of the clock as it ticks us closer to the grave.

I don't usually review books on this blog but an insecure world threatens to take us down and robs us of our joy. Living a life without fear is the focus of the latest book by Max Lucado. We know what fear feels like but Lucado puts words to those gut-wrenching feelings and offers alternatives.

The author uses a three-part plan for answering the difficult questions: first, a biblical discussion of the problem followed by appropriate Bible verses to reinforce the truth. He often concludes the chapter with a real-life story of triumph and encouragement.

Who can live in this uncertain day and age and not have a few fears? Intrigued by the title, the book captured my attention and offered both wisdom and knowledge on a variety of subjects. Not all of the chapters applied to my particular fears, yet, if I had dismissed them as uninteresting and moved on to the next chapter, I would have missed the bigger picture. Max Lucado makes the case that courage is the antidote for fear, which comes from God alone. I recommend Fearless.

He Cares

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 18:07:00 +0000

Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.
1 Peter 5:7 (NLT)

Some days are easier than others. My week was upended with computer glitches and updates. Yours might be the cry of a new baby just as you've gotten to sleep, the phone call from the doctor with test results, or sitting down to pay the bills realizing there is not enough money in the bank. All of these are just a few of both the unexpected and mundane events in life that can ruin a day.

After posting my article last week on depression, it didn't register that people were adding their own comments until several days later. As I read their notes, many full of grief and pain. I realized I had hit a nerve. Tears streamed down my face knowing that pain bonds us in unfathomable ways. However, pain shared makes it bearable. I know how much I was helped when I let the light shine on the secret of depression in our household. Take the Master up on His word and give Him those impossible worries and burdensome fears. Run free. He will take care of you.

New Venture

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 11:47:00 +0000

My heart is drawn to the daily ups and downs of mothering. After the birth of my first granddaughter, Kate, I watched my daughter, miles away, struggling to get through each day, wishing that Nana was closer, but striving to love and nurture Kate to grow into the young lady that God intended.

Each stage of development for our children demands new strategies and knowledge on our part. I can remember saying I was an expert on baby care up to the age she currently was. Don't ask me about tomorrow...or next month...or next year; I haven't been there, yet. Now, as a grandmother, I enjoy sharing my experiences in the hope of helping another mom take one step at a time towards a happy and healthy family.

As a result, I volunteered to be a Mentor Mom to moms with preschool children as part of a program called MOPS. I enjoyed the interaction, teaching and support that we shared together and worked with them for six years before our move to AZ.

Recently, I was asked to contribute to a new website, www.mamapedia.com. It contains a wealth of information on many subjects for all your mothering needs. Please stop by and check out my article posted at http://www.mamapedia.com/voices on August 31 under the Voices section. It's entitled, "Midnight Musings in the Shadow of Depression."

Please let your friends and family know about this new website. I would love to get your feedback, too, as this is a new venture for me.

Tough Week

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 23:50:00 +0000

The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
"The LORD is my portion," says my soul,
"therefore I will hope in him."
Lamentations 3:22-24 (ESV)

Some weeks are just tougher than others. This was one filled with both emotional and physical challenges. The memorial service for the husband of one of the employees at our club brought tears as I listened to the grief caused by suicide. A trip to the hospital to change out the battery for Mark's ICD reminded me of the many hours sitting and waiting for the doctor's "all clear." The long awaited appointment for a shot in my hip in an attempt to relieve lingering pain occurred two days later. During these days and nights, the emotional upheaval of it all nagged at my spirit, which seems to happen when life appears out of control.

I'm sure Jeremiah wearied of the unending rant of Jerusalem's destruction in those days of the Babylonian exile. God was not happy with those folks and reiterated it repeatedly. I was ready to just skip the chapters in Lamentations but firstborn that I am, I read it because of my commitment to read it all. But, if I had skipped those verses, I would have missed the words of encouragement inserted right in the middle of all the negativity. God had not forgotten His chosen people and He did not forget me this week. He knew about the grief, and fear, and frustration, and fatigue, and anger. He was there each morning with a new set of mercies to meet my needs. It came in the form of a phone call, or an email, crossing paths with a friend at the store, or just the right Bible verse. I don't have to be frustrated when everything appears to be out of control; my hope is in Him who is always faithful.