Thursday's Blessings

On this very warm Thursday morning, I am thankful for so many blessings! The "little blessings"- if there are such things - are so easily overlooked but enrich my days in unexpected ways.

Among countless things, today I am thankful for:

flowers that add so much beauty to my world

the cool breeze that blew as I watered flowers this morning

beautiful birds, such as the doves, that feed in the yard

the beauty of the flag rippling in the breeze

a quick visit from a cousin who came by to pick up extra tomatoes

a day that I don't have to be anywhere at a certain time

a lively discussion about heaven and how to get there that I had with a teenager last night

emails from former students asking for prayer

the way God answers those prayers

the message I heard at campmeeting on Sunday about the love of God . . .

The love of God . . . and the peace He gives (the doves remind me of His peace and the Holy Spirit) . . . truly the greatest of all my blessings and make all the "little blessings" possible!

"Oh, how He loves you and me . . . "

A Lesson in the Corn Patch

After the storm

A few weeks later

Heavy rain and strong winds can wreak havoc in a corn patch. That's just what happened in Husband's garden a few weeks ago. The healthy, beautiful stalks were bent toward the ground, and it looked as if the crop was lost. Husband was tempted to plow up the rows of corn and start over with a different vegetable. After some thought, however, he decided to "help" the corn stand upright again, hoping the roots had not been damaged too much.

And so, stalk by stalk he stood the corn up and packed dirt around the base of each plant with his foot. One stalk . . . then another . . . and another. It was a tiring, monotonous task that took time and determination. But eventually you couldn't tell that the winds had touched the garden. The plants continued to stand tall and grow, producing enough corn for us and many of our neighbors.

Husband's successful efforts to get his corn crop standing and thriving again reminded me that people around us often need help in "standing up" after being knocked down. The storms of life can bend the strongest of us. So what can the winds of difficulty do to the weak ones . . . the children . . . the elderly . . . the abused . . . the needy. . . the hurting . . . the forgotten . . . the hopeless ones? Unless you and I become the hands of God and help lift them up, they may never "stand tall" again.

Now I know that you and I can't stand the whole world on its feet, but we can help and bring hope to those in our sphere of influence . . . one person at a time . . . one good deed at a time . . . one day at a time. Yes, it takes time and determination - and a heart of compassion. Reaching out to others can get tiring and messy, our hands and feet can get dirty, and we may wonder if our efforts are worth it. But somewhere down the road, we'll look back and see some of the fallen ones on their feet, heads held high, and living productive lives.

In the process of lifting up another, we somehow enrich our own lives. And I think nothing pleases our Heavenly Father any more than seeing us stoop to help a brother or sister. After all, He's the One who first reached out to us . . . and is still offering us His hand today! As the VBS song says:

"I get down; He lifts me up. . . "

Family Ties

Whatever the occasion, family get-togethers are special times. Last night we sat around the table - and the bar - and enjoyed fresh vegetables from Husband's bountiful garden. Food just has a way of bringing us together! And when we are together, we make wonderful memories.

We made memories as Sister and I put the vegetables, rice, steak and gravy, and fried cornbread in serving dishes and got everything ready to call, "Y'all come and eat!" You don't have to say that twice in our family. Husband said grace like Daddy would have done if he was still with us, and food began to disappear from serving bowls. I had tried to cook the meal "like Mama did" - and Youngest Brother and Sister even called it a "Gracie meal" - but I don't think anyone can cook quite like she did. I wonder - if she was looking down on us - if she noticed my gravy was a little too thick! No, I think she was so very glad to see us enjoying each other's company.

And I like to think that Middle Brother, who has been gone from us for four years now, was listening in to Oldest Brother and Youngest Brother, Brother-in-law, and Husband as they talked in the living room. He could always add the funniest versions of hunting stories that usually began: "Do you remember the day we were hunting on the Tick Misery Road . . . or at the Harve Swag . . . or down the Rattlesnake Road . . . ?" I think he would have loved the vegetables and would have especially enjoyed seeing Husband's garden. I can just hear him say, though, as he looked at the loaded tomato plants, "Hoss, why didn't you stake these plants and tie them up?" And Daddy would agree with him wholeheartedly!

After everyone had eaten their fill, leaving a tiny bit of room for lemon icebox pie, Sister-in-law and Niece washed, rinsed, and dried all the dishes while Sister and I cleared the table and put away food. (Actually, leftovers went into a "Care Package" for Oldest Brother!) What would have taken me hours to clean up was done in no time. Fast clean-ups remind me of the Sister-in-law we've missed for 25 years. I've never known anyone who could get a kitchen back in order and spotless as quickly as she could!


What fun we had in the kitchen as the three of us "old-er women" filled Niece in on "the way it used to be." She listened in disbelief - and sometimes horror - as we told her about can-cans, Dippity Do, Evening in Paris, hair rollers made from orange juice cans, and smelly home perms! She's probably still shaking her head!


I'm so glad that in these often-chaotic days in which we live, we found the time to be together and laugh . . . and remember . . . and eat. I implied earlier that fresh vegetables brought us together last night, and that is true. But that's not the whole story. What really brought us together is . . . love. And love - God's and ours - is what holds us together - even in the difficult times such as our family has experienced. It really is true: Love never fails.

"Blest be the tie that binds . . . "

Empty Boots

Viet Nam Memorial - Washington, D.C. (Google Images)

Today is Memorial Day, the day set aside to remember those who've paid the ultimate price in service to our country. One day a year . . . certainly not what they deserve, but I'm glad we have today. I wonder how many people who are celebrating on this long weekend have realized why today is a holiday. I'm afraid I really don't want to know.

I am so thankful to be an American . . . even considering the shape this nation is in today. America is still the best place to live and raise our families. It is the best place to be because of those who gave their lives defending the freedoms upon which our country was founded. I am so grateful to every one of those countless courageous men and women who left our soil and never returned . . . to the country they defended . . . to their loved ones here at home.

I am grateful to their families whose lives were forever altered with a telephone call or a knock on their doors. How many empty chairs . . . empty beds . . . empty hearts . . . and empty shoes or boots have existed in America's homes during our history? Too many. I can't imagine how these families have suffered. They, too, have made a tremendous sacrifice.

We can't thank those whom we honor today, but each of us can take every available opportunity to thank our veterans and those serving our country today. I encourage everyone to find a way to let them know that they are appreciated. You would be surprised to know just how many veterans, especially those who served during the Viet Nam War, have never heard the words, "Thank you for serving our country." What a shame.

Make the time in the days ahead to say those words . . . as often as you can . . . to as many veterans and military men and women as you can . . . and really mean it! It's the least we can do!

"All gave some. Some gave all."

Lilies Aren't Forever

My Easter lilies, which bloom late here, are beginning to fade and die. I wish that were not so. I'd like for them to bloom much longer. More than ever, I've enjoyed their beauty and fragrance this year. Maybe it's because I had more of them - about 40 blooms at one time - in two different beds. Their pure, snow-white appearance and their sweet fragrance are heavenly. Very fitting characteristics for a flower associated with Easter!


But today I noticed several that had turned brown and were hanging limply from the stem. A few blooms had already fallen to the ground. As I broke off the limp lilies and picked up the dead ones, I thought of the fact that today is Ascension Day, the day The Church celebrates Christ's return to His heavenly home. The Lily of the Valley, pure and sinless, died on Calvary. His limp body was placed in a borrowed tomb. But . . . But . . .He didn't stay there! He arose!! He ascended back to His Father . . . and He's alive forevermore!!!


My Easter lilies may not live and bloom forever, but He who conquered death once and for all does!! And one day - a day of His choosing - I plan to join Him in that place where flowers never fade nor die!

I Don't Do Weedeating!

Just for fun complete this sentence: I don't do . . .

For one thing, I don't do . . . weedeating! Husband does that . . . and it's fine with me. In the first place, because my arms are so short (at least that's what I tell myself), I can't hold the weedeater and pull the cord out far enough to crank it. Secondly, husband started it for me once, and I never could figure out how to cut evenly. I made a mess!! Looked like a gopher had been digging in the yard! So, I'll leave that job for him - and he's probably relieved. You've heard the old saying: If you can't do something right, then don't do it! I rest my case!

I don't do . . . extreme heights. Well, OK . . . maybe I don't do heights at all. It's difficult for me to climb bleachers at a game!

I don't do . . . most amusement park rides. It's OK, though, because I amuse myself watching others who do!

I don't do . . . strange, exotic foods. If it's not southern or comforting or thoroughly cooked, or if I can't pronounce it, I'll pass!

I don't do . . . scary movies. Real life is scary enough sometimes! Why would I want to scare myself on purpose?

On a more serious note, however, there are some things that I don't enjoy or feel capable of that I, with God's help, must do anyway. Life has a way of placing many challenges in our paths: trials, temptations, unpleasant circumstances, setbacks, monotony, discouragement, tragedy . . . and the list goes on and on. But as a Christian, I can't sit back and say, "I don't do those things!" In fact, those situations are the very times that my faith is put to the test. Those are the tunnel trips (as I wrote about earlier), where God proves His love and care for me.

I read an article this week by Tim Kimmel which got me to thinking about this idea. He said: I'm grateful Moses didn't say, "I don't do Red Seas." David didn't say, "I don't do giants." Paul didn't say, "I don't do road trips." Mary didn't say, "I don't do virgin births." And I'm most grateful that Jesus didn't say, " I don't do crosses."

"Must Jesus bear the cross alone and all the world go free?

No, there's a cross for everyone,

And there's a cross for me."

COME and Dine!!

"God provides every bird its food but doesn't throw it in the nest." (copied)

We watched as the male bluebird flew to the spot where my husband had just put out meal worms and had whistled for the birds, signalling that supper was ready. Perched high above on a wire, the female patiently sat.

Husband said, "Watch him take her a worm to eat."

That's exactly what happened! I positioned myself to get a good shot of the pair and snapped my camera just in time!

The bluebirds could have stayed high in the trees and missed an opportunity for an easy meal. Hunger, instinct, and the whistle that they had grown accustomed to prompted them to respond, move out of their sheltered spot and fly to the food.

How many times do I fail to be nourished because I don't respond to the overflowing table that my Heavenly Father prepares for me? He invites me to "come and dine" on a daily basis. His Word is always available to me . . . words that can fill any hunger in my soul. But I must open the Bible . . . and my eyes . . . and ears . . . and mind . . . and heart . . . and prayerfully digest The Bread of Life. Jesus is a Gentle Shepherd and never forces Himself or His Word into my life or yours. I must recognize my hunger and respond. I must do my part . . . and He'll certainly do His! I can always leave His table satisfied!

And when I've been nourished, I think He smiles when I share the Bread of Life with others!

"Jesus has a table spread, where the saints of God are fed . . . "

"Mightier than the thunder of the great waters,

mightier than the breakers of the sea -

the Lord on high is mighty."

Psalm 93:4

"Our God reigns . . . our God reigns."

Tunnel Vision

I've never liked traveling through tunnels. On our recent trip, the road took us through quite a few like the one above, and a much longer, more traveled one near Norfolk. I'm claustrophobic and don't like the idea that water - or earth - is piled on top of me! Some tunnels are illuminated to some degree by lights, but the fact that I'm in a dark, dark place is still very real. Signs warn near others to "Use your headlights" - as if we wouldn't think of that! Smells from exhaust pipes are intensified, especially in the longer tunnels, and the noise from other vehicles is incredibly loud. For me - not a pleasant place to be! I can't wait to see a glimmer of sunshine ahead, and the suffocating feeling leaves me as we burst into the sunlight.

So much like life. You understand this analogy as well as I do, for we all must travel through some tunnels, both brief and seemingly never-ending ones. I've never enjoyed any of the circumstances that thrust me into the suffocating darkness; neither have you. But I do know that my Heavenly Father knew where I was every moment; even though I couldn't see Him, He was my constant traveling companion and guide. The noise from my own confusion and the voice of Satan sometimes drowned out His gentle whispers. In fact, in the dark times of life, the tempter seems to shout the loudest as he spews suggestions into my mind - suggestions that only intensify the pain and keep me stalled in the tunnel.

In recent days, God has been speaking to me about abiding in Him - even when I'm in a tunnel. Abiding . . . even the word itself seems to bring comfort. I must confess that I have much to learn about all that abiding means in my life. I do know that I want to be as close to Him as I can and that abiding is something I must choose and consciously practice. Abiding does not take away the troubling circumstances, but it does give me the inner calmness and the confidence to continue on my journey because I know that His grace is sufficient. He is enough! And in His time, I always emerge into the sunlight again!

One day this week, when I turned the page of my Scripture calendar for the day, these words summed up my own prayer so well:

Lord, I don't pray for tranquility, or that my problems may cease; I pray that Your Spirit and love would give me the strength to abide in You during adversity.

"Jesus will walk with me . . . in the night season and all the day long."

"So Freely Flowing"

One of my favorite places is the Smoky Mountains. For the past week, we enjoyed the beauty of the mountains, untouched woods, preserved farm sites, the wildlife, and the streams and rivers. Tucked far away from the noise of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, the ever-flowing, crystal-clear streams calmed the spirit and reminded me of God's majesty. Even in downtown Gatlinburg where our hotel was located, a stream flowed back of our room. Its soothing sounds never stopped nor did its flow. . . over and around the rocks. . . always moving.

As we drove along one of the winding mountain roads one day, husband and I talked about the dependable, predictable, always-flowing waters . . . so much like God's love and grace for us. Never ending . . . always moving . . . pure and clean . . . starting at Calvary . . . flowing through all the ages . . . and will never run dry!!


Lord, I pray with the songwriter: Let Your love flow through me. . . Keep me pure; keep me clean so that Your love may be seen. Let your love, let your love flow through me.

"So freely flowing from Calv'ry's mountain . . . and now my soul is fully satisfied."

Simple Country Pleasures

I cherish the memories of long ago Sunday afternoons in spring when Mama and Daddy would take us children for a drive along the familiar country roads near our home.
Since there was no extra money to spend on entertaining ourselves, we loved "riding around," as we called it, and enjoyed many simple country pleasures.

One of those was looking for "piney woods" violets along the winding dirt roads. It was such fun to spot the brilliant purple clumps before we got to them. We'd all get out of the car and pick huge bouquets to take home. Nothing was prettier that a violet bouquet nestled in some simple container and set on the dining table.

Today, as my husband and I drove through the woods after delivering a load of firewood to my father-in-law, we spotted the familiar purple color along the road. I think my heart began to beat just a little bit faster at the sight of them in all their glory! Of course, I had my camera handy, and loved capturing their beauty. But even better was picking a handful of the miniature beauties.

Back at home, I found an old blue medicine bottle that we discovered in the woods behind our house and placed my prized bouquet in it. Simple - yes, but it couldn't be prettier! Expensive - no! Didn't cost a thing! Just one of the countless simple pleasures that makes life a little more pleasant and lot more beautiful!

I think our Heavenly Father must enjoy watching us discover and take pleasure in the awesome beauty and serenity He has placed all around us. I really believe He wants us to enjoy the journey! And who knows - when I get "home," He just might have bouquets of "piney woods" violets decorating my mansion!

Until then, I plan to enjoy as many simple country pleasures as I can!

"Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on me . . . "

Beauty After the Storm

After the storm, with raindrops still very visible on their petals, these flowers looked more beautiful than ever!

"Something beautiful . . . something good . . .
All my confusion, He understood.
All I had to offer Him was brokenness and strife,
But He made something beautiful of my life."

Precious Moments

I cherish the "Precious Moments" of life! No, not the adorable, collectible figurines like the one pictured above from Google's images, although I do enjoy those . . . but real life moments that can only be called "precious." Those unexpected moments that touch you deep in your heart, make you smile, and then are filed away in your mind's memory album under the heading: So Glad I Didn't Miss That One!

Every Wednesday afternoon I hear a knock - a certain knock - on the door and know that the little boy from next door is here to "visit" and to make sure we're going to church for Caravans and Bible Study. Since I have been sick for several days, I opened the door and told him I couldn't go to church and that I didn't think he should come into my germ-filled house. He stood there and listened with his hands behind his back. I wondered what he was holding. You never know!! I didn't have to wait long to find out that he was holding his big, black Bible.

I knew something was on his mind, so I quickly said, "We can visit out here under the carport for a few minutes."

So we sat down on the old camp-meeting bench, he opened his Bible, looked at me and asked, "Did your sons ever work on Sunday?" Just that matter of factly! I could tell this was going to be one of those "Lord-help-me-to-say-the-right-thing moments!"

"Yes, they did," I answered, "but I didn't like it."

He pulled his Bible up closer to him and began to read: Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you . . . nor your son or daughter . . . "

So, we talked . . . about the fact that the Ten Commandments haven't changed . . . God still intends for us to obey them . . . and about today's culture requiring some people to work on Sunday for the well being of others . . . but we should worship Him and keep the day holy. He seemed to understand.

He told me about someone who had stolen, then said as he pointed to another verse, "It says here thou shalt not steal."

"Yes," I replied. "That's one of them, too. And so, we shouldn't even take a pencil or a penny that isn't ours."

As he flipped through his Bible, he turned to the front pages where family records are kept. He said that he didn't quite understand one page and turned to the one that referred to "Holy Matrimony." With a smile I told him that's where he would write his and his wife's names when he married. He didn't linger on that page too long!

I noticed that on the page labeled "Deaths," he had written one word: Nana. A few weeks ago his grandmother died, and it was so very hard for him. On that occasion his question to me was: Why do we have to die?

Oh, my! How do you answer that adequately for an eight-year-old boy? I tried to answer him as simply and honestly as I could but ended by saying, "When you get to heaven, you can ask Jesus!"

His reply: You'll get there first, so you can ask Him!

Today I encouraged him to keep reading his Bible . . . maybe read Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John, I suggested. By this time, I was getting really hoarse, so I sent him on his way - or in his words: You ran me off!

Those brief moments were like a breath of fresh air - literally - and figuratively speaking! Do I always take the time to sit and "visit" like I did today? Not always. But I'm so glad I did today. I wouldn't trade those "precious moments" for anything!!

(I usually include a line or two of a song from my heart here. Today I think a prayer of my heart is more appropriate.

Oh, God, help me to never get so busy that I push aside a child who wants to know more about You and Your Word. Give me patience, discernment, and the right words to say. Help me to love them as You do and to see them through Your eyes. May I never forget that when I have shown love to one of "the least of these," then I have shown love to You.

Amen.

Some Things Never Change!

Husband's prop for his garden tools caught my attention! There stands one of modern technology's tools - along with simple implements that have been used for ages: a push plow, a shovel, a hoe, and a rake. I don't do the gardening, but I've noticed that husband uses the tried-and-true basic tools often. And they do the job well. They also take more effort on the user's part. But the results - come harvest time - are worth it!

In our fast-paced, technology-run world, there are some basics that still work. The message of the Cross will forever be the same. God's Word can still be trusted. Prayer and honest communication with our Heavenly Father still work. Yes, it takes some effort on our part, but the results are abundant and far-reaching. Ultimately, they are out of this world!

Basic . . . simple . . . but not obsolete!

" . . . simply to Thy Cross I cling . . . "

Easter Lilies and Cacti

Quite a strange combination . . . quite a contrast . . . Easter lilies and cacti in the same flower bed! But it works, as you can see!

When I think of a cactus, I think dryness, heat, desert, painful pricks. On the other hand, Easter lilies remind me of new life, springtime, beauty, fragrance - the Resurrection.

Because of the Resurrection, Jesus offers newness and beauty - even in the desert places of our lives . . . those painful, dry places that seem to sap life from us in the heat of some battle. Then we realize - sometimes ever so slowly - that He is right there with us . . . and hope springs up . . . and peace begins to seep into the dryness and despair of our souls.

It works in my flower bed . . . and it works in my life! I've agonized in the "desert places," but He's never failed to show up. And in His time, He made life beautiful again!

" . . . and life is worth the living - just because He lives!"

Majesty

"From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same

the Lord's name is to be praised."

Psalm 113:3

"Majesty . . . worship His Majesty . . . "

Scriptures, Serpents, and Sweet Abby

I can't think of anything more refreshing than a child who loves God's Word and enjoys memorizing it!

That's our soon-to-be eight-year-old Abby! Seems she has a special gift for remembering Scriptures. Reciting thirteen separate Scripture verses - with their references - in one session of her Awana class is proof of that! Just last week, when asked how she felt about missing Awanas because of a family trip, she replied, "I've learned all my verses, and I want to go to Awanas and say them. And I want to tell my teacher that it didn't take me a long time to learn them all like she said it would!" (As it turned out, she'll get to go tonight and say her verses.)

Of course, I'm proud of her abilities just as any grandparent would be, but even more than that, I am so thrilled that she is hiding His Word in her heart. She'll never forget what she is learning now. Oh, she may not remember every word in the correct order, but she won't forget the Truth of the Words she's memorizing and reciting. By the way, she's very much impressed with her NIV translation as opposed to the King James! After learning a very difficult passage from the KJV, she told me in a phone conversation, "Nana, I had to learn a verse last week that I didn't even understand! Mama had to explain it to me. Let me read it to you."

So she read to me a very hard-to-understand passage, one that I'm glad I don't have to recite from memory!

"Now," she said, "let me find it and read it to you from my Bible."

What a precious conversation . . . one that I am so thankful to be able to enjoy.

You've probably noticed the snake in the above picture. I am reminded that the ancient serpent, as the Bible calls Satan, is slithering around Abby - and all of us - hissing his lies and tempting us to follow him. But if we know God's Word and anchor our lives in His Truths, we can overcome all the devil's schemes.

Abby, keep learning your verses and reading your Bible. God has great plans for you! And just one more thing . . . I haven't forgotten about opening the frig and finding that snake coiled on the top shelf :-)!!

"Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, a light to my path . . . "

Who Needs Math?!!

Oldest GRANDchild, a very bright homeschooler, is studying business math . . . and hates it!! As you can see from her protest poster, made to present to her parents, she has her future all planned, and business math is not part of it! Her quickly scribbled note made them smile, but her math lessons continue, of course!

That she needs to learn all types of math, no matter what her vocation, is an understatement. But, that's not the point of this blog entry. I just think it's kinda' neat that a young girl has aspirations to be a wife and mom in today's culture that so emphatically stresses career to young girls. Please don't get me wrong; I'm not against a woman having a career! I am a retired teacher and loved my years as an educator. And I'm very aware that many times a wife and mother must work outside the home. But I still think the greatest and most rewarding "job" a woman can have is that of taking care of her family and all that entails. I'm very sure that Emily understands - as much as any almost-thirteen-year-old girl can - what a stay-at-home wife and mom does. You see, she has had a terrific example . . . her mom!

Em, don't loose sight of your aspirations! But for now, learn all you can - even how to buy insurance, stocks, and bonds! And when you have married the man God already has picked out for you (I know . . . I know . . . you don't want to even think about THAT!) and you get your children raised, write all those wonderful books you have in that oh-so-creative head of yours.

Then when your books begin to sell, you'll be glad you learned that "useless" business math!!

"Give of your best to the Master; give of the strength of your youth . . . "

Just a Cup of Coffee . . .

Today I was reminded once again that it's an awesome blessing to be an American! Those who know me well know that our military men and women, both past and present, hold a very special place in my heart. My husband is a former Marine (and is still a Marine!) and our younger son is now a Navy officer after serving 11 years in the Marines. So, it's true . . . I really do love our veterans! I was made more aware of my appreciation for them today, and I cherish the opportunity I had to give back to them in just a tiny way.

For a couple of hours this afternoon, my former Marine and I served free coffee and snacks to the veterans at the Veterans' Hospital not too far from our home. What an honor! It was incredible to witness the gratitude of these men and women, some in wheelchairs or walking with the assistance of a cane, as we handed them a cup of hot coffee. Just a cup of coffee! Some told us how they appreciated us serving them; others said the same thing with their eyes and their smiles. Even as we walked to the car, one gentleman remembered us and said, "Thank you for taking the time to serve us." Just a cup of coffee!

They deeply touched my heart - and they made me smile. One elderly gentleman waited in line for his coffee, and when he got close, he said, "I want a half cup of sugar!" At least that's what I thought he said!

I replied, "You want a half cup of sugar?"

He came closer, almost in my face, and put his hand on my arm. With a smile, he said, "I-want-a-half-cup, SUGAR!" Made my day!!

To say the least, those two hours were some of the most rewarding moments of my life, and I look forward to going back next week. It doesn't take talent, or money, or lots of time to say, "Thank you!" to our veterans.

Just a cup of coffee seemed to be enough today!

"I'll gladly stand up - next to you and defend her still today . . .

God Bless the U.S.A."

Peace

"I've got peace like a river . . .

And it flows like a river . . . in my soul."

Love thy neighbor . . . ?

Aren't kids fun? Our grandson Aiden stayed with us last week, and for some reason felt the need to "mark his territory" by taping this note (the part written in pencil) to the door of the "kids' room." Shortly, one of the little boys who lives next door came to visit and apparently didn't like what he read. He found a marker and added the words you see in black! I love it!! And you know, there really is room for everybody!

"We have THESE MOMENTS to hold in our hands . . . "

A Little Birdie Told Me . . .

I love watching birds from my kitchen window while I wash dishes! Sure makes my least favorite job more pleasant! I keep my camera close by and try to capture some of their beauty through the window. I've closely observed their behavior, and I think we can learn some valuable lessons from them.

As you can see from the photos, birds of all colors, sizes, and personalities congregate outside my window to enjoy the feed that we put out for them. And the neat thing is: they all can eat together without a big fuss! Oh, sometimes a bossy, noisy bluejay tries to upset their peaceful existence, but you know what? His antics never keep the others from coming back again and again. Um-m-m . . . what lesson can we learn? You got it, didn't you?

I think of author Reuben Welch's beautiful description of all of us - each so very different - coming to eat at God's table. In his book We Really Do Need Each Other, he says: Can you see it? Jesus is at the head of the table and the disciples around the sides. And then I see the wall open up and the table begins to lengthen - and it lengthens out and . . . it comes all the way into our world to where we are. . . believers of all the ages are gathered at the table and we are one table with the Lord. . . and so we come . . . and we are one. If the birds can do it, can't we?

How the little creatures know where to find feed is a mystery, but they do know. It's funny to watch various birds flock to the feeders as soon as I fill them and come inside. Reminds me that we as Christians know where to go when we need The Bread of Life and The Living Water. Just as the birds seem to have some kind of internal "radar," we have His Spirit that never fails to invite us: Come eat; come drink until you are satisfied.

Near our bird feeders are two bluebird boxes, and it's almost time for the bluebirds to start building their nests and making a home for their new brood. I've observed that they are so very protective of their "space," even before nesting season. Just let another bird light on one of the boxes and out of nowhere . . . one or both bluebirds zoom in, wings flapping, and scare away the unwelcome visitor! Even though they are out of view, the pair seems to constantly watch their "home." Another valuable lesson for us: We need to diligently guard our homes - and our hearts, watching for unwanted and unwelcome influences that can so easily creep in.

Finally, I think of the Scripture that says: Not one of them (sparrows) will fall to the ground apart from the will of the Father. . . so don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." Matt. 10:29-31


"His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me . . ."

Hope

"Many things about tomorrow, I don't seem to understand,

but I know Who holds tomorrow,

and I know Who holds my hand."

Through Isaac's Eyes

"The anchor holds - though the ship is battered.

The anchor holds - though the sails are torn . . .

The anchor holds - in spite of the storm."

Children are listening - even when we think they aren't. On one of the rare occasions that grandchildren Isaac, Emily and Abby have worshipped with us, I gave Isaac a pen and some note paper. During the service, George sang my favorite song, The Anchor Holds. I was not aware of what Isaac was writing, but I was focusing on the words that have meant so much to me during the storms of my life. After George had finished the song and sat down, Isaac handed me the piece of paper you see in the above photo. He was listening and through his seven-year-old eyes (pictured below), saw and drew the anchor. Today I have a copy of his drawing framed and hanging in our bedroom - a constant reminder that I've anchored in Jesus. The storms of life I'll brave . . .

Aunt Lizzie Belle's Daffodil

". . . walk out into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They never primp or shop, but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best-dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them. If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you?"

Matthew 6:28-30 The Message

"He loves me; He loves me. He loves me; this I know . . . "

It's Just That Simple!

I am often amazed at the wisdom of young children. Many times they, in their simple faith, have less difficulty in seeing the "big picture" of life and setting priorities than we adults. I was reminded of this fact again this week during a visit with our six-year-old grandson. When asked, "Do you like . . . (and Poppa named some things) . . . without any prompting he replied, "I like God . . . and Jesus . . . and my family . . . and my friends." Just that simple!

Now that will warm a grandparent's heart! He gets it! Sadly, for many older folks, priorities are not that simply defined, and when life get's complicated - and it often does - chaos fills the heart and mind. It's only when we remember Who is "first" in life that He can help us fit all the other pieces of life together.

Thanks, Aiden, and I pray that you never edit your list!

Thank God for kids . . .

Do you ever stop to think or wonder why
The nearest thing to Heaven is a child?
When you get down on your knees tonight
To thank the Lord for his guiding light
And pray they turn out right,
Thank God for kids.

Spring Planting

"Plow your unplowed fields, but then don't plant weeds in the soil."

Jeremiah 4:3 The Message

Sowing in the morning, sowing seeds of kindness . . .

On the Road . . . Again

Someone has said: Jesus' home was the road along which He walked with His friends in search of new friends. I think He still travels the roads of each of our lives - and He never walks too fast nor lags behind us.

Sometimes we walk alongside Him, talking to Him, learning from Him.

Sometimes we stop to rest, gaining new strength and getting refueled for the journey ahead.

Oftentimes, if we are sensitive to His voice, He asks us to sit down for a lesson, maybe even a much-needed correction. At those times I'm tempted to just keep walking! But when I choose not to stop and listen - and obey, I always run into trouble somewhere down the road.

At other times we walk slowly - enjoying the scenery and most of all, His presence. We stop and smell the roses, listen to the birds sing, and bask in the Light of His love.

Now and then, He says to us, "Hurry! Run! Someone down the road needs your help - now!" And He's there to run alongside us.

As we travel, our eyes sometimes get full of dust from the road, and so we must stop long enough for Him to touch our eyes. Then we can focus more clearly on Him and on those who are off the road - those who have lost their way and have decided to call it quits.

How many times have we needed Him to touch our hearts so that we want to reach out to those who live on the wrong side of the road and whose lifestyles are so very different from ours? He always has time to take what's wrong and make it right - if we ask.

And He always - always - says: "Bring a friend . . . and another . . . and another. . ."

Jesus will walk with me. He will talk with me; He will walk with me. In joy or in sorrow, today and tomorrow, I know He will walk with me.

Needin' a Makeover?

Makeovers - extreme makeovers - seem to be the rage! Bodies, homes, outdoor spaces, and offices can all be beautifully transformed. Even out-of-control children can be wonderfully changed when Supernanny comes to visit! And to be fair, many of the makeovers that we see on television are needed and are a blessing. But all of these transformations basically deal with externals and have no eternal value. I'm so glad that I know the One who deals in extreme makeovers that begin inside a person, making us ready for that ultimate makeover that will never need any touch-ups!

Who else but the Potter can remold us "earthen jars" - or cracked pots - into beautiful vessels that He can fill and use? Who else but our Heavenly Father can transform a stony heart into one that is pliable in His hands - or make a sinful heart white as snow? Know anyone else who can set captives free from guilt, addictions, and the past? And when Jesus shows up, darkness becomes light and mourning turns to joy! He trades our weaknesses for His strength and exchanges our timidity for boldness. Without exception, a touch from the Master's hand brings hope. Now that's an extreme makeover and is available to anyone who sincerely asks! No one is beyond His transforming love.

No matter how mature we may think we are as Christians, we should continually pray: Make me over in Your likeness. You are the Potter; I am the clay. One day, maybe not too far in the future, we who have been changed by His grace will experience a makeover that we can't begin to imagine. We shall all be changed . . . (I Cor.15:52).


O, to be like Thee; O, to be like Thee. Blessed Redeemer, pure as Thou art . . . Stamp Thine own image deep in my heart.

New Life

This is My Father's world . . .