Waiting For an Answer

It seems that one of the first words we humans ever learn is "why."  We start asking "why" very early in life and often come to the end of this worldly existence with that word still on our lips.  As I stood at the bedside of my mother in her final days of life, I listened to her ask "why?" on multiple occasions.  She had long been ready to leave this world and join her husband, brothers, parents, and friends who had entered into Glory before her, but the Lord seemed to have other plans for that timetable.  Mom looked into my eyes and asked, "Why doesn't He take me home, honey?  Why am I still here?"  I didn't have the answer to her question and could only offer her the assurance that God's wisdom is far beyond anything we can ever hope to understand and His timing is always perfect.  Easy for me to say, but far harder for any of us to accept.  In those final days of Mother's life, I must admit that I also wondered "why?".

As the days passed quietly, I was privileged to be at Mom's bedside daily and helped attend to her needs.  My sister had devoted many years of her life to caring for our mother, but this final period of time had worn heavily on her.  I could see the sorrow in her eyes and hear the pain in her voice as Sis anticipated the final moments of Mother's life.  It was one of the hardest things I've ever experienced, but one of the most blessed, as well.  Kay and I sang songs to Mom.  We even did a little soft shoe to "Me and My Shadow" that elicited a hearty chuckle from Mother and an admonition to not quit our day jobs.  As she slowly slipped into the quietness of her final hours, we tended to the needs of her physical body and prayed for her spiritual comfort. 

Mother was placed into hospice care for those last few weeks of life, so by the time I had made the trip back North to see her, the hospice nurses and chaplains were already ministering to her and to my sister.  Upon my arrival, I was able to meet some of those special people who had chosen this amazing ministry for themselves.  As those days passed and Mother eventually left us for her life in Eternity, I was able to speak candidly with the hospice nurse and two chaplains who each encouraged me to investigate the possibility of chaplaincy work in the realm of hospice care for myself. 

If you've read my blog before, you already know that I have been on a journey of faith for the past few years, returning to seminary and entering into full-time ministry work.  I've wondered where it would all lead me.  At times it's been hard to hold onto that faith and not allow discouragement and fatigue to overcome me, but by God's grace I've continued to walk in obedience believing that He has a plan for my life.  By the time my mother had gracefully slipped out of this life and into the presence of her Lord and Savior, I began to think that I may have been given a glimpse into what my ministry might entail.  So, as a result, I have enrolled in chaplaincy training that will begin shortly after the start of the new year in 2015... and I cannot begin to convey the excitement and anticipation I have for what might lie ahead.

Perhaps Mother lived a bit longer so that I might have the opportunity to be exposed to this ministry of hospice.  I cannot help but think that might be the reason why God delayed in calling her home.  I live 800 + miles from my sister's home, so it took some time for me to be able to make the trip back to say good-bye to Mother.  In my heart, I believe she was asked to remain in her earthly home until God could use her gentle spirit one last time to show me a path to follow, a door through which I am to pass, and a ministry calling I had never thought of before those final days with Mom.  Sometimes, if we are specially blessed, we may get the answer to that haunting question... "Why?"

"For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie:  though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry."

(Habakkuk 2:3)

Pick Yourself Up, Dust Yourself Off, and ...

It is very hard to admit failure.  Although it's been said that we learn more from our failures than we do from our successes, that is very little comfort when we're staring at ourselves in the mirror wondering where we went wrong.  Sometimes we're faced with more than one failure at a time, too.  Failure hurts... it makes us think we're not really worth much.  When facing failure, we really only have minimal options:
1.  Blame someone else-  Sometimes we resort to blaming others in a futile attempt to exonerate ourselves.  No one likes to admit that they've dropped the ball in some way.  Shifting the responsibility to someone else, anyone else, just feels easier than accepting the responsibility for ourselves.
2.  Make excuses-  Time got away from us.  We just couldn't manage the challenges.  No one else cares, so why should I.  The list of excuses is endless, but all the excuses in the world won't change the failure we face.
3.  Resign to acceptance of our failure-  This option stinks because it only condemns us to living in regret for what might have been. 
4.  Stand up, take responsibility, and start fresh-  Sounds easy, but this option takes guts.  Admitting failure, especially to others, is not an easy thing to do.  It may be even harder to admit to ourselves.  However, it is the recognition and admission of failing that provides us with the place to start over.

I started this blog last year and have fallen woefully short of my initial intention for it.  I allowed busyness to get in the way.  After a few weeks of making excuses as to why I couldn't post something new, I just began to forget all about this venue of personal expression.  Even with well over 1900 views around the world, I convinced myself that no one was really interested in what I have to say anyway.  So, I just wandered off and stopped writing... and I feel ashamed and sorry for that.

If you have been a reader, please accept my apology.  I can only offer you this:  I will try hard to be more faithful to my blog and to remember that if something I write resonates with just one other person somewhere in this world, it will be worth the effort.  Life is hard and we can use all the encouragement we can find along the way.  Here I am once again.  I pray that the Lord will use this blog for His glory and for the edification of others.  No blame, no excuses, no resignation... just a willingness to stand up, dust myself (and my keyboard) off, and start again.

So Many Things, So Little Time

Wow, have I been busy!  It feels as if I've been going through life lately with my tail on fire.  There are those times in life when we do feel overwhelmed and ill-equipped to meet all the challenges and demands put upon us.  The real truth, though, may often be that it is we ourselves who are responsible for the majority of those pressures.  There are so many opportunities out there, and we just don't want to miss out on any of them.  However, spreading ourselves too thin will only make us ineffective and over-tired.

If you consider light, you might get a clearer understanding of the problem at hand.  We can put a big bulb into a large flashlight and manage to illuminate a fairly large spot in the darkness.  However, the light will probably not be strong enough around the perimeter to afford us the ability to read or do any close work effectively.  Or, we can find a spotlight that focuses all its energy onto a much smaller area.  Within its radius, we can surely see clearly to do many things.  And then, there's the laser... a focused beam of light so intense that it can burn through metal objects or carve into stone.  Now that's some power!  It's all a matter of concentrating the power of light in order to achieve a specific purpose.

In life, there are so many wonderful opportunities in the world that we sometimes forget we simply cannot do them justice if we try to accomplish too many of those things at one time.  It becomes an issue of prioritizing and making selective decisions in how we will invest our time and energies.  Devoting ourselves completely to one or two vital issues allows us to "burn through" those projects and make a real difference.  Of course, we'll have to shine in other places just a bit now and then, but the trick is to use our focused abilities for those things that will make a difference for eternity.

I am currently involved in coordinating a major, community-wide, interdenominational revival event for my home town here in South Carolina.  It is a daunting challenge, but one for which I am particularly well suited.  My strongest spiritual gift is that of administration (organization).  But even with that gift, I must still accept that it would be impossible for me to do everything necessary to make this revival a reality.  I need the help, talent, and expertise of others.  I must learn to delegate tasks to people who can be trusted to carry through and accomplish what must be done.  Moses learned this lesson when he tried to be the sole judge for the entire Jewish nation during their desert existence.  His father-in-law, Jethro...leave it to someone named Jethro to really "hit the nail on the head," so to speak (oh, and think Jethro Gibbs, NCIS agent, not Jethro Bodine of Beverly Hillbillies fame)... to point out to this strong man of God (Moses) that what he was trying to do was simply not wise.  In Exodus 18, Jethro pointed out to his son-in-law that it was foolish for him to try to handle all the issues and complaints of the Jewish people when there were plenty of wise, experienced leaders around him who could help shoulder that burden.

Maybe, like me, you're finding yourself spread a bit too thin.  It could be time for you to look around and find yourself some help, my friend.  When your responsibilities to family begin to suffer, when your church attendance begins to suffer, when your health begins to suffer, or when your private time with the Lord begins to suffer, it is time to stop, re-assess your priorities, and delegate responsibilities to others in whom you can trust.  Henry Ford once said, "The question, 'Who ought to be the boss?' is like asking, 'Who ought to be the tenor in the quartet?'  Obviously, the man who can sing tenor."  You know the people in whom you can trust.  You already know the people who can get things done and consistently do them well.  And you know that you are not the only person on the planet capable of handling a challenge.

So, thanks to my precious sister, I have been reminded that I've been amiss in my responsibility to my blog.  (Although I must admit to being somewhat surprised that someone actually missed my postings... how 'bout that?!)  I will try to better.  Now, you will have to excuse me while I make some phone calls, type some e-mails, create some biographical sketches, schedule some publicity photo shoots, determine the menu for our pastors' informative breakfast, run through my sermon for Sunday, practice my solo, start some supper, throw in a load of laundry, make the bed, and touch up my make-up before my hubby gets home.  Gotta maintain that June Cleaver appeal, you know.  WHEW!  I'm getting tired just thinking about it all!!!

"So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom."

Psalm 90:12

There's No Place Like Home

     "There's no place like home.  There's no place like home."  I'm pretty sure most of us are familiar with Dorothy's assessment of home in the Wizard of Oz movie.  That sentiment holds true for each of us, but sometimes from opposite viewpoints on the spectrum.  To some, home is that safe place of refuge from the world where they can find love and acceptance and a clear sense of belonging.  To others, home is the place to be avoided at all cost.  It is a place of hurt feelings, anger and violence, and fearfulness.  How sad it is to think that "home" should ever carry such a negative message to our hearts.

     Protecting the sanctity of our home is a full-time job in this world.  Satan's attacks come from every side and through numerous avenues.  Daily, we are barraged with horrifying stories from the news networks on our televisions.  We may live in a place where we are subjected to the shouting and hatefulness of neighbors nearby.  The newspaper touts headlines of wars across the globe, domestic abuse in our communities, and untimely deaths resulting from impaired driving on the highways.  In short, Satan wants to keep us ever mindful of the state of this fallen world and distract our attention from the power we have in Christ Jesus to triumph over such tragedies.  It is not his desire to see us enter our homes with an attitude of peacefulness, joy, love, and encouragement.

     Down through the years, my husband and I have ferociously protected the peaceful sanctity of our home. Years ago we determined that "home" would be a word that meant "safe,"  "quiet,"  "acceptance,"  and "love" to our family and anyone who entered into it.  On occasion, it has been necessary to defend that mindset vigorously and in the face of people who would try to undermine it.  I distinctly remember one event wherein my husband informed a disruptive couple in our home that they were being given a choice:  "You may either choose to walk out that door under your own power, the way you came in... or you may choose to have me put you out that door under my power.  I can promise you, one way or the other, you are leaving this home!" It was not a pleasant task for him and was certainly unsettling to the rest of us, but it was necessary at that moment.

     We have often opened our home to others who needed a place to stay, as well.  We are always blessed to be able to offer our guest room and bath to individuals in need of them.  However, we have often cautioned those people that we will not allow any behavior (from them or those with whom they associate) to enter into our home that will disrupt the peacefulness that we hold so dear.  Unfortunately, that message sometimes isn't taken to heart, and we have in the past had to require that people pack up and leave our home after causing unrest and division.  It always makes us very sad to do that, but in the end we believe the lesson being taught is that of respect, dignity, and personal responsibility for the one who is asked to depart. We do no favors if we allow people to behave in disruptive ways and rob others of their peace, and we do nothing to show that such behaviors are unacceptable to us and to Almighty God.

     Until recently our son had a precious dog named Mason, whose company we also were blessed to know in our home for many years.  He was a beautiful golden retriever and a blessed addition to both our families. Shawn (our son) and his family live next door to us.  Because they do not currently have a garage, he stores his motorcycle in ours and rides it often back and forth from his daily workplace.  Mason could hear Shawn approaching home long before any human ears became aware of him.  He would hop up from the floor and head for the back door, eager for our daughter-in-law to let him out the door to trot across the two yards and greet his master (or "Alpha," as Shawn referred to himself), tail wagging and a dance in his step.  You could almost hear Mason say, "You're home!  You're home!  I'm so glad to see you!  I've missed you!  I really, really love you!"  I loved watching this welcome unveil each day.  I know Shawn also loved it.  Mason is gone now, but we will always remember that feeling of warmth and acceptance that he so freely shared with those he loved.  I think we would all be wise to follow Mason's example.  What a blessing it would be to those we love to know that we're excited to welcome them home.  In Luke 15:11-32 we can read the story of the return of the prodigal son and the joy his presence generated in the heart of his father.  His son was home.  Regardless of what had happened out in the world, the son was welcomed home with enthusiasm, joy, and unconditional love.

     To some people, the word "home" carries with it the thoughts of verbal abuse, degradation, and even (for some) physical violence.  It is a place to be avoided at all cost, and so they seek love and acceptance out on the streets or in other inappropriate places that only bring more heartache and hurt into their lives.  How sad it is to see those homes where Satan has been given the victory and the peace of God has been covered over by the anger of mankind.

     I encourage you today to determine in your heart that home will always mean "HOME, SWEET HOME" for yourself and those you love.  Whether at work, at school, or even in the Land of Oz, may you and your family always be able to say "There's no place like home," and to do so with smiles on your faces and joy in your hearts as you anticipate your return.

"Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it..."

(Psalm 127:1)  

Lessons From Mason

Last week was hard.  It was a week of difficult, painful decisions and then the emotional upheaval resulting from those choices made.  It was a time of saying good-bye to a long-time, faithful friend and companion.  Last week was a moment in time that felt as if things would never be the same again... and so far, that feeling lingers on.

Sometimes love is glorious and happy, but sometimes love is difficult and agonizing.  Love is hardest when we are called to make a decision that doesn't feel good to us for the sake of the well-being of the one we love.  Perhaps one of the greatest lessons we can ever learn in life is that real love is never selfish.  Real love requires that we put someone's best interest before our personal desires.

I think God may have brought Mason into our lives to teach us valuable lessons that we could not have learned without his help.  From Mason, we learned that everyone needs to feel as if coming home is the greatest thing we can do for those who love us.  We should never be ashamed to run out the back door, across the lawn, and into the arms of someone who returns home to share our love with them.  Perhaps they're coming home from a horrible day at work or a hurtful experience at school, but that shouldn't matter to those waiting there at home.  It's all about reminding loved ones that home is a good place, a safe place, a place where we will always find acceptance.

Mason taught us that even the little pleasures in life are significant.  A bowl of popcorn and a cold drink-- when shared with someone we love, those small pleasures become gigantic memories that will last a lifetime.  A warm arm around our shoulder or a gentle kiss on the cheek can make all the difference in someone's day.  Sometimes, just sitting beside that person and listening intently... keeping our focus on that one singular person for a time... making eye contact so that he or she knows you are hearing what they have to say-- those moments in time speak volumes about the depth of our love.

From Mason, we learned that it is our responsibility to watch over those we love and protect them from potential harm, to the best of our abilities.  Most of our days will be quiet and non-eventful, but when danger approaches, we must be willing to put ourselves out in front of our loved ones to fearlessly face the onslaught. When we know we are loved and that home is a safe place, we can lie down to sleep peacefully.  We can expose our weakest parts and most intimate feelings without fear of being hurt, because we will know that those we love so deeply love us in return.  As we have protected them, so will they protect us. 

God brought Mason into our lives to teach us that love does not hinge on how we look, what we own, or even how we smell.  Love transcends all things.  Love trusts and can be trusted in return.  And sometimes, love hurts.

Last week, love meant letting go of Mason so that his suffering could come to an end.  It meant putting his needs before our wants.  And oh, how that love did hurt as we said good-bye.  But I believe with all my heart that Mason knew he was loved... and there is no doubt that Mason loved us all.  Now, Mason runs the open fields of heaven.  He was a loyal, faithful friend.  Mason was a good dog, and we will miss him.

  ^"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.  It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.  Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.  It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres."

(I Corinthians 13:4-7)

Making the Tough Choice

Back in 2012 I began this blog because of the prompting of the Holy Spirit in my heart, and I believe as much today as I did back then that it was in the Father's plan for me to share the thoughts and beliefs I hold with those who would read them.  However, life is always changing... that is one constant of which we can always be certain.  Nothing remains the same.  My life is changing now, as well.  I have become the associate pastor of a congregation here in South Carolina and am pursuing ordination as a Wesleyan pastor.  In addition, I will be continuing classes through Southern Wesleyan University toward my bachelor's degree in ministry.  I also participate in a weekly nursing home ministry, teach back-to-back classes on Sunday evenings at my church, preach on a fairly regular basis, and direct the music and worship for our congregation now.  I still try to maintain close communication with members of my family back in Michigan and also minister to individuals within our community on various levels.  Recently, I received the go-ahead from our city hall to organize and facilitate an interdenominational revival service later in the fall.  Perhaps you are beginning to see that my daily schedule is becoming increasingly full of commitments, all of which I cherish.  But, like anyone else, I simply cannot do it all and have it all if I am to retain a healthy balance of ministry life and personal life (and believe me, my relationship with my husband and family are always a top priority for me).  Sometimes, we find ourselves needing to make difficult choices, and this is one of those times.

While I have been truly blessed to post my thoughts on this blog, and have been blown away by the knowledge that people all over the world have read many of them, I must admit that the overall effectiveness of this avenue of ministry is probably quite limited.  More often than not, we are most effective when ministering on a personal, face-to-face level with individuals, such as I do in my church and community ministry efforts.  So, now I find myself needing to decide where I will devote my time in order to be most fully used by the Lord.  Composing and maintaining this blog takes valuable time in my schedule that I believe can probably be best used in my local ministry.  Unless I receive some divine direction to the contrary, I will  greatly decrease the number of blogs I post in the future, or may even discontinue the site altogether.

If you have been reading my blog and desire to see me continue writing and posting, please make a comment to that effect so that I can know who is being blessed by those efforts on my part.  This is a tough choice to make, and I want to be certain that I'm making the right one.  Your comments (or lack thereof) will help me make that decision.  I thank you all personally from the bottom of my heart for reading what I've had to say.  My most fervent prayer is that in some way I might have touched your heart with a word of encouragement or enlightenment to make your journey just a little easier.  May God richly bless you all!

Back I Go!

This morning I am preparing to do something very, very, VERY hard:  This morning I am returning to Weight Watchers once again to take charge of my weight and my health.  For any of you who have ever fought this battle, I don't need to tell you how difficult and discouraging it can sometimes be.  Issues with weight, and the resulting effects on my overall health and well-being, have plagued me since I graduated from high school.  Since 1969 I figure I've lost about 300 pounds... lost and gained back multiple times.  Don't think for a moment that I have not prayed for this battle to be taken away from me.  Like the apostle Paul, I have repeatedly asked God to take this "thorn" from my side, but each time He has given me the calm assurance that His grace is sufficient for me.

A person with a personality like mine (and probably like yours) can find herself focused inward far too easily.  Because I often sing solos for groups of people and/or speak publicly, the standard mode for expressing appreciation comes from people through the same words...."You were really wonderful.  You blessed me.  You have a beautiful voice."  I hope you get the picture.  While I know that people are trying to let me know that they were touched or moved by the message of a song or sermon, the words used to convey that can turn my thoughts inward and cause me to believe that somehow I was responsible for that blessing in their lives.  The truth is, without the moving of the Holy Spirit and the constant abiding love of Jesus Christ and the gracious gifts given to me by the Father, I could do nothing.

"I will lift up my eyes to the hills-- From whence comes my help?  My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth."  (Psalm 121:1-2)

I don't pretend to know the mind of God, but sometimes I wonder if He allows this constant struggle in my life in order that I do not become too full of myself, but that I am reminded daily of my need for His abiding grace and strength to meet the challenges of this life.  It is a humbling experience to return to a group of people where I have previously experienced a victory (and, some say, have served as an inspiration to them) in order to confess that once again I need their help and support.  Learning humility is not comfortable!  According to Easton's 1897 Bible dictionary, humility is defined as "a prominent Christian grace. It is a state of mind well pleasing to God; it preserves the soul in tranquility and makes us patient under trials."  Humility must become a PROMINENT Christian grace in my life, not just a passing experience on occasion. 


So, here I go again.  I will return to this group of fellow journeyers and will seek to give encouragement and draw upon the strength of the knowledge that there are others on board this boat with me.  I know we'll celebrate some victories and share some defeats with one another.  That's what this sort of group is all about.  Along the way, I'll be praying for more victories that defeats, and I'll be praying the same for all the others who are there with me.  Together, we will keep trying to embrace a healthier lifestyle and weight.  Now... back I go!

"For we do not have a High Priest Who is unable to understand and sympathize and have a shared feeling with our weaknesses and infirmities and liability to the assaults of temptation, but One Who has been tempted in every respect as we are, yet without sinning.  Let us then fearlessly and confidently and boldly draw near to the throne of grace (the throne of God's unmerited favor to us sinners), that we may receive mercy [for our failures] and find grace to help in good time for every need [appropriate help and well-timed help, coming just when we need it]."

(Hebrews 4:15-16, Amplified Bible)

How Can We Say Thank-You?

My family experienced quite a scare this week.  Our son-in-law, who is a law enforcement officer for North Carolina, was seriously injured in the line of duty chasing down a suspect.  As a result of his efforts to uphold the law and keep the public safe, he will now be laid up for several weeks (possibly months) recovering from his injuries.  During that time, he will be forced to give up all his vacation and sick leave time before any benefits can be realized from the workman's compensation arena.  Even then, his compensation will only be a fraction of his normal wages and his family has been thrown into financial hardship as a result.

Now here's the thing:  this young man has dedicated his life (and laid it on the line multiple times) for the purpose of protecting the public and upholding the laws of the state in which he lives.  He has been cursed at, spit upon, called derogatory names, had things thrown in his face, maligned by drunkards and drug addicts (as well as irresponsible sober citizens), and now even seriously hurt by a criminal suspect who walked away from the incident unscathed.  All this because our son-in-law chooses to believe that the greater good of mankind is worthy of his dedication and the risks he accepts each day as he slips into his uniform and heads out the door of his home.  Matt is not alone.  Each and every day dedicated men and women choose to put themselves in harm's way in order to serve others.  Some become fire fighters, others law enforcement officers, many are military servants, and others serve as first responders.  They don't seek praise and don't consider themselves heroes.  In addition, most of them receive pitiful compensation in return for their dedication.  Each year, hundreds of these fine human beings give their very lives for what they believe in.  How many names appear at Ground Zero in New York?  How many names cover the Viet Nam Memorial Wall?  How many headstones mark the places of fallen military men and women in Arlington Cemetery and other cemeteries across our nation?

As average citizens, we need to become fully aware that without the selfless dedication to duty and the willingness of these public servants and military personnel, our lives would be at risk and our peaceful existence called into serious question.  Can we really afford to continue to overlook the needs of these individuals and simply expect they will continue to risk life and limb on our behalf?  Every day, I see reports on the news broadcasts of homeless American military veterans sleeping on the pavement in some of our largest cities.  They go hungry and without needed medical care, and no one seems to remember the years of their active service in defense of our country.  Policemen and women are injured and killed, fire fighters perish in raging infernos while they attempt to save others, even first responders often come under gun fire as they try to give aide to injured people.  Folks, we need to sit up and pay attention here!  These fine people make our lives safer and more peaceful each and every day.  We must not ignore their needs when in service and duty they become injured or even killed.  We have a moral, ethical, and spiritual responsibility to ensure they are well cared for and that their families do not suffer as a result of their dedication.

You might be asking how you can make a difference.  Sometimes the simplest gesture can turn a bad day into a blessing for someone.  Have you ever thought of paying for a policeman's meal at the restaurant?  What about a heart-felt "thank you" and an appreciative hand shake when you meet a firefighter on the street?  Could you be the one to take a homeless veteran to a hot meal and purchase him or her a new pair of shoes?  I know of a group of ladies who spend time crocheting plastic sleep mats out of used grocery bags and distribute them to the homeless in their community.  The possibilities are endless, and are limited only by your imagination and your willingness to express gratitude for the service of others.

Showing kindness and appreciation brings its own special reward to the one who does it.  Such expressions of gratitude do not escape God's sight.  He is pleased with every effort to extend love and encouragement to those who serve us in such selfless ways.  I pray that each one of us will take the opportunity today to thank a public servant in a meaningful way.  Oh, by the way, when was the last time you said "thank you" to your pastor and his wife?  Maybe an invitation to Sunday dinner is in store; perhaps a card of appreciation sent through the mail ; maybe a platter of home-baked cookies anonymously placed on his desk at church... let your imagination run wild. 

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."  (John 15:13)

Making the Time

Sometimes life gets very busy.  It's hard to "find" the time to do those things which God has asked of us, so we often just need to "make" the time.  If we all began to write down exactly what we do in a day's time (in increments of 15 minutes) I think we'd all find that there is a big portion of each day we simple fritter away on non-essential, unimportant things.  I suspect, if you are anything like me, the biggest thief of our time is the television.  It's so easy to get caught up in that make-believe world of the small screen that an hour can pass by before we know it.  Now, I'm not saying that we must discipline ourselves to never watch television (although my daughter and her family have not had a T.V. in well over 5 years and don't seem any the worse for wear as a result), but certainly restricting ourselves and choosing the programming carefully is in order.

"I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless. I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me."  (Psalm 101:3)

Another thief of our time is the bed.  I know of several people who have cultivated the habit of spending far too much time in bed and whose lives show the consequences of such a lifestyle.  Generally speaking, they are overweight, feel sluggish all the time, and complain of a "foggy head" nearly every single day.  Some suffer from chronic back pain and others from chronic headaches.  Too much sleep, like anything else in our lives in which we overindulge, is not good for the human body.  Medical research indicates that oversleeping results in obesity, back pain, headaches, increased risk for diabetes, higher incidence of coronary artery disease, and depression.  The average adult requires seven to nine hours of sleep each night, and anything over that becomes problematic. 

"Do not love sleep or you will grow poor; stay awake and you will have food to spare."  (Proverbs 20:13)

"How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep?"  (Proverbs 6:9)

Yet another thief of our time has been the newest craze for social media.  Smart phones seem permanently attached to the hands of some people.  In fact, the other day I was using a public restroom and heard the woman in an adjacent stall talking on her phone to someone.  Are you kidding?!  If you cannot even use the bathroom privately, surely things have gotten out of hand somewhere.  Hours of time can easily fly past as we choose to sit in front of a computer screen or a smart phone and live vicariously through the lives of others.  Sometimes it appears nothing more than a raging desire to know everyone else's business is what prompts people to glue themselves to these tiny screens.  

"Make it your goal to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands, just as we instructed you before."  (I Thessalonians 4:11)

Do not misunderstand me here.  Sometimes life does indeed get very busy.  The past couple of weeks I have found myself inundated with responsibilities that have kept me from writing on this blog.  There have been important events at church that required preparation and presentation.  I have been a part of an effort to furnish over 300 free meals to members of our community who often go without food for most of their day.  I am organizing a women's mission group that had fallen by the wayside for many years.  I am also putting together a community-wide interdenominational revival which requires countless hours of work and phone calls.  Add to all those things the fact that I just finished final exams at seminary and am now preparing to enter into my ordination training for the ministry.  Obviously, I have been busy.  However, the Holy Spirit gave me inspiration to start this blog and He has not released me from that obligation as yet.  I apologize for not "making" time to see to it that there has been fresh inspiration and insight for those who regularly read it.  And I promise to try very hard to do better in the future.

So... now I need to schedule a time into my busy weeks ahead to be responsible to this area of ministry.  Perhaps you, too, need to "make" time for something in your life to which you know the Lord is calling you.  Start by unplugging the T.V., temporarily turning off your cell phone, and getting out of bed a half-hour earlier than you have been (or maybe even an hour, depending on how much time you've been spending there).  Purpose in your heart to make each moment of each day an offering to the Lord and service to others.  The eternal rewards will far exceed any temporary satisfaction we may find in the things of this world.

"For we must all stand before Christ to be judged.  We will receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in this earthly body."  (2 Corinthians 5:10

It Will be Worth it All

Sometimes when I read Scripture I find myself saying, "What??"  There are passages that confuse and concern me, this I freely admit.  I have found that at those times God is trying to teach me something new and give me deeper insight into the hidden meanings of His Word.  The passage in Matthew 10:34-39 is one such section of Scripture:

"Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth.  I did not come to bring peace but a sword.  For I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; and a man's enemies will be those of his own household.  He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me.  And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.  And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me.  He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life my My sake will find it."

The first time I read this passage I found myself shocked at the thought that Jesus said he had come to earth not to bring peace, but a sword.  After all, I had been given an image of the Christ as a quiet, unassuming, peaceful suffering servant, not a sword-wielding warrior.   But as I looked more deeply into His statement, I realized that I'd left out a couple of crucial words from my understanding.  Christ did not say He would not bring peace... He said He would not bring peace on this earth.   Jesus did not descend from His throne to change the social structure of the day or to effect some sort of political alteration.  As long as the world is embroiled in sin and disobedient to God, there can be no peace.

When we think about the peace that Christ spoke of in so many other scriptures ((Luke 2:14; 7:50; 8:48; 10:5-6; Acts 10:36; Ephesians 2:13-17), we need to understand that this peace will only come to those who choose to believe in Him.  As long as a man stays lost and tied to this world, he (or she) will never know the "peace that passes all understanding through Christ Jesus, our Lord."  The hardest part of that is the realization that some of those individuals who refuse Christ as Lord may actually be a part of our own family.

Jesus said that He brought a sword, not peace to this earth.  A sword is an instrument that pierces and cuts and divides asunder.  That is a clear understanding of what the Gospel of Truth does in this world.  It divides the believer from the unbeliever and penetrates deep into the soul of one who is lost.  It brings conviction and discomfort as it pierces the conscience.  It is not eagerly embraced by a sin-sick soul.  Following Christ will surely bring some division into our lives.

It seems the first and most ferocious opposition we receive when we choose to believe in Jesus comes from our own family.  I think our choice to follow Him may be seen as some sort of disloyalty by many of them.  Our behaviors change, our desires change, our attitudes become different, and suddenly we are a stranger to those who grew up knowing all about us.  They feel threatened and confused at this "new" person with whom they are faced, so they lash out in an effort to subdue and conquer, returning the individual to one whom they can recognize again.  A new believer may feel the need to strike back in defense, but the longer I have walked with Christ the more I have come to understand that this is not the way for a disciple to respond.  In His final hours on earth, as He stood wrongfully accused before Pilate of all manner of lawlessness, Jesus did not speak.  He chose to remain silent because (I believe) He knew that to respond in the face of such hate and anger would only fuel the fire of evil.

Now, I am as human as the next person, trust me.  There have certainly been those times when I have returned anger for anger in my life.  This much I can say with deepest conviction:  not one single time did that turn out well for me.  In fact, I only suffered greater anguish as I became convicted and chastened by the Holy Spirit for wallowing in the mud from which He had already once lifted me.  I felt shame and regret for my failure to recognize that following Christ means I will be faced with persecution, but those experiences are part of what will bring me closer to Him.  If I am to be a follower of Jesus, if I am to call myself a Christian, then I must accept all that comes with the title, knowing that God will be faithful to carry me through each confrontation or attack.

My friends, if following Jesus Christ brings division among you and your family or friends, count it a blessing.  It only means that you have been given the opportunity to share in the suffering and the glory of our Lord.  Each time we triumph over evil, each time we hold our tongue and do not return anger for anger, we become more like the One who gave His life that we might be redeemed to our Heavenly Father.  When we die to ourselves and live for Christ, persecution in this life will have little effect on us.  We will be able to keep our eyes fixed on eternity and upon the face of the One who really matters.

In his article entitled "I Came to Bring a Sword,"  Yves I-Bing Cheng, M.D., M.A. wrote:

"The cross, like the sword, separates. The cross, like the sword, exposes. The cross, like the sword, kills.    The cross, like the sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17), makes alive because it sets us free from sin. Now we understand what the Lord Jesus means when He says, ‘I came to bring a sword.’ That sword is the cross."

I close today with the precious words of an old hymn:

"It will be worth it all, just to see His face,

When He calls me for His own.

Then ten million years to sing 'Amazing Grace,'

It will be worth it all when we get home!" 

"That They May Be One..."

I recently listened to a sermon regarding unity in the body of Christ.  It was preached in accordance with the prayer that Jesus Christ prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane just before He was taken away by the Roman guards to face the accusations which led to His crucifixion.

"I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one--as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me."

(John 17:21, New Living Translation)

What a precious prayer, and what a blessed thought.  If we could only set aside our differences in the faith and begin to embrace that which we agree upon-- the virgin birth, the blessed life, the perfect sacrifice, and the glorious resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ-- what marvelous things we could do!  No longer would our time be wasted worrying over non-consequential matters.  No more bickering and division among the brethren.  Only unity in our desire to reach a lost and hurting world for the glory of Christ and God the Father.  

This past Sunday I was asked to join with a special group of singers in the Missionary Baptist Church which worships in the building just behind my home church.  It is a mainly African-American church with a glorious style of worship very different from the reserved style of my own congregation.  They needed the voice of a soprano to complete their opening worship song and sought me out to fill that void.  What an honor and privilege it was to join my voice with those precious brothers and sisters in the faith for the purpose of praising our God and King.  The Spirit of Holiness moved through that group of people as we sang, and those of us who were lifting our voices in praise were not left wanting.  It's been a long time since I felt such a powerful presence of the Holy Spirit in a worship meeting.  We sang without shame, we sang without fear, we sang out from our hearts... and God was pleased with our praises.  He smiled upon that gathering of His children and was quick to answer the prayers of His Son on our behalf.  We were "...one in the bond of love" and it was magnificent.

When God's children join their hearts in worship and praise, it unleashes a mighty power into this world that can never be equaled or defeated.  With that thought in mind, I am beginning work on putting together a community-wide revival for the small town where I live.  It will be a 5-night event where denominations will be set aside and our only focus will be on the unity of the body of believers and the power of Almighty God to refresh this world through our praises.  I believe that Sunday was a small taste of the blessings to be known by such a gathering, and I thank my Lord for this glimpse into what He desires to accomplish through our revival services.  I pray that each of you reading this blog will join with me in prayer for the hand of God in everything that is done in those meetings.  May we agree that our goal is to show Jesus to our world, beginning with our small South Carolina community.  

"The Scripture says, No man who believes in Him [who adheres to, relies on, and trusts in Him] will [ever] be put to shame or be disappointed.  [No one} for there is no distinction between Jew and Greek.  The same Lord is Lord over all [of us] and He generously bestows His riches upon all who call upon Him [in faith].  For everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord [invoking Him as Lord] will be saved."

(Romans 10:11-13, Amplified Bible)

Ouch! That hurts!

"Why don't other people see things the way I see them?"  Have you ever asked that question?  Sometimes we wonder why others view things so differently from what seems to be obvious to us.  If those issues are something about which we are passionate, the critical words of others carry a particular sting and can leave a considerable wound in our heart.  Then, add to the mix the possibility that those other people are folks we care about and who we believe to be significant to us.  Wow, now that really hurts!  Criticism and cynicism from those we love can result in a few different responses on our part.
1.  We become angry and lash out at the one giving the criticism:  When our enthusiasm for something is viewed negatively by someone significant in our life, we often respond with anger and may say things we later regret.  Usually, we're trying to defend our position or justify our right to believe something.  We expect those around us (family, friends, church family) to be supportive and just as enthusiastic as we are about the issue.  However, sometimes what we receive from them is just the opposite... cynicism, criticism, rebuke, or perhaps simply a level of apathy we find intolerable.  If their remarks are harsh, we feel attacked, and at times like those we often "fire back."  No one likes dodging bullets without at least trying to shoot back in defense.  Yet, Scripture warns us against that sort of response.

"Good sense makes a man restrain his anger, and it is his glory to overlook a transgression or an offense."  (Proverbs 19:11)

More often than not, when we bridle our tongue and refuse to exchange hurtful remarks, we find that in time that other person comes around to our way of thinking and begins to embrace our enthusiasm simply because they see for themselves that our passion is not a fleeting fancy.  Our commitment to our belief and our steady indication of that commitment will be a stronger witness than any verbal admonition can ever be.

2.  We feel hurt and discouraged, often choosing to give up as a result:  This response to criticism occurs when we fall into the trap of seeking our approval from man, rather than keeping our eyes firmly fixed on the "author and finisher of our faith."

"You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose mind [both its inclination and its character] is stayed on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You, and hopes confidently in You."  (Isaiah 26:3)

It is a grave mistake to place our hopes into the hands of other humans.  They are, after all, sinful creatures just as we are sinful.  Sooner or later, even our staunchest supporters will disappoint us by their negativism.  That is not to say we should never listen to the advice of others, but we must be diligent to weigh that advice against the Word of God and the call upon our heart concerning a given matter.  Only when we discipline our minds to stay in close communion with the Lord will we find peace.  Commitment to God is key... commitment in the face of criticism is glory.

3.  We lose our enthusiasm and begin to drift:  If criticism leads us to complacency, we have become lukewarm in our faith and obedience to God's call.  Jesus Christ spoke through the Apostle John in Revelation 3:15-16:

"I know your [record of] works and what you are doing; you are neither cold nor hot.  Would that you were cold or hot!  So, because you are lukewarm and neither cold nor hot, I will spew you out of My mouth!"

We understand that these verses were written specifically to the church in Laodicea, which had become wealthy and "self-sufficient," thereby also becoming very complacent about the faith.  However, the same verses were recorded for our benefit that we might understand the danger of a so-so commitment to those things which Christ has commissioned for us.  The word spew means "to rapidly expel with great force."  It is synonymous with the word vomit.  Now, I cannot speak for you, but I can assure you with confidence that I have no desire to be "vomited" out from Jesus' presence!

I guess what I'm trying to say today is simple.  Don't allow someone else's level of enthusiasm... or the gross lack thereof... to sway you from your appointed call in Christ Jesus.  Life will be filled with times when we believe in a given course of action, only to find that those around us do not embrace our enthusiasm or even support it.  Listen... consider... pray.  Then, move forward on that which God has placed in your heart.  Keep your eyes fixed on the prize, and don't give up.  Don't get angry because others fail to have the same commitment as you.  Don't lose your enthusiasm for the task.  Look to the only source of true wisdom and guidance for your life, then move on with determined commitment and love for the task (and others).  God does not call His children to lives of convenience and ease.  But He rewards perseverance, dedication, and obedience.

"Consider it wholly joyful, my brethren, whenever you are enveloped in or encounter trials of any sort or fall into various temptations.  Be assured and understand that the trial and proving of your faith bring out endurance and steadfastness and patience.  But let endurance and steadfastness and patience have full play and do a thorough work, so that you may be [people] perfectly and fully developed [with no defects], lacking in nothing."

(James 1:2-4, Amplified Bible)

 

Spring Cleaning

Spring is my favorite time of year.  Perhaps one of my favorite things about the season is the opportunity for spring cleaning.  (Yes, I know I'm weird.)  I look forward to those warm, sunny days of spring when I can dig into the mess winter has left behind and get things bright and shining once again.  I think God must love spring, as well.  He uses the early rains to wash away the muddied snow and freshen the earth.  He allows fresh new buds to appear on the trees and plants and the old, dead leaves to be crowded out and drop away.  In spring, God turns caterpillars into butterflies and tadpoles into frogs.  He touches the sleeping daffodils and enables them to break through the surface of the ground and spring forth in all their glorious beauty.  Spring is the time of fresh new beginnings.

Sometimes cleaning up the mess of winter is hard work.  A couple of days ago my husband took on the chore of cleaning our back porch and deck to get it ready for the approaching warm days.  Everything was covered with a thick layer of dirt and yellow pollen that clung to each surface with tenacity.  It took several passes with a vacuum and multiple buckets of soapy water to clean away what the previous months had left behind.  The grime out there was tenacious, but Bob was more tenacious still... and now our back porch and deck are ready to welcome guests and serve as a lovely place to sit with a cup of coffee, my devotional and Bible in hand, and start each day with the Lord.

Spring cleaning is not just needed in our homes and yards.  It is probably even more necessary in our lives.  When we are in close contact with God, He will be faithful to point out those areas of life in which we have an accumulation of dirt and disorder.  He wants for us to tackle those old issues and clear them away so we can move freely into the future.  Sometimes that job requires only that we seek His forgiveness for the past and step into the newness of life He provides.  Sometimes we may be called to seek the forgiveness of others whom we have hurt along the way.  Still other times it may be necessary for us to endure the consequences of our poor choices for a period of time as God allows us to learn from those painful experiences in hope that we will never again repeat them.  Yet, when we have tackled those messes and cleared them away from our lives, we can step into a new springtime of fullness in Christ Jesus unencumbered by the mess of winters past.

The Holy Spirit has been sent to believers to reveal the truth in all things.  His job is to prick the conscience and open the eyes of Christians so they can see and clearly recognize their need for change. 

"He changes the times and the seasons; He removes kings and sets up kings.  He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding!  He reveals the deep and secret things; He knows what is in the darkness, and the light dwells with Him!"

(Daniel 2:21-22)

If we will choose to listen to the Spirit, He will be faithful to reveal those things in our lives which must be cleared away if we are to be ready for a fresh, new beginning in Christ.  Sometimes the work is hard because the issues are tenacious, but we can rest in the knowledge that God equips His children for every difficult task.

"For who is God except the Lord?  Or who is the Rock save our God, the God who girds me with strength and makes my way perfect?  He makes my feet like hinds' (deer's) feet [able to stand firmly or make progress on the dangerous heights of testing and trouble]; He sets me securely upon my high places.  He teaches my hands to war, so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.  You have also given me the shield of Your salvation, and Your right hand has held me up; Your gentleness and condescension have made me great.  You have give plenty of room for my steps under me, that my feet would not slip."

(Psalm 18:31-36)

The best part of spring cleaning is the finished product.  When my house is sparkling clean and tidy, I can look around with a feeling of pride and accomplishment in the completed work I have done.  It's the same in our lives.  Clearing away the clutter and grime of our past lives leaves us free to bask in the glory of the completed work of Jesus Christ on our behalf.  He is able to make all things new.  Sometimes we are given tasks to complete along the way, but He will walk with us faithfully and give us the courage and tenacity to do what must be done so that we may plant our feet firmly on salvation's new height.  Once secure on that higher plane, we need not fear that God will allow us to slip back into the mess of our past.  He will forever be our Rock and our Salvation.

I pray you will find the courage to begin the process of spring cleaning today.  Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to reveal those areas which need to be tackled first, and then begin.  With a little time and a whole lot of tenacity, you will witness the finished product in which you can take pride and know you have been obedient in all things.  A fresh start feels so good!

"That if possible I may attain to the [spiritual and moral] resurrection [that lifts me] out from among the dead [even while in the body].  Not that I have now attained [this ideal], or have already been made perfect, but I press on to lay hold of (grasp) and make my own, that for which Christ Jesus (the Messiah) has laid hold of me and made me His own.  I do not consider, brethren, that I have captured and made it my own [yet]; but one thing I do [it is my one aspiration]: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the [supreme and heavenly] prize to which God in Christ Jesus is calling us upward."

(Philippians 4:11-14, Amplified Bible)

The Leak

Today is one rainy, rainy, rainy day in South Carolina.  I'm talking the kind of rain that makes you start looking for an ark.  Our back yard resembles a small lake right now, and the rain just keeps coming.  In fact, it was raining so hard at 6:00 a.m. that I awoke from my sleep and got out of bed just to see what was happening.  (For anyone who does not know me well, I am certainly not an early morning person and do not typically get out of bed willingly at 6:00 a.m.)  Sometime later, my husband rolled out of the sack and headed for the kitchen to start a pot of morning coffee for the two of us.  It didn't take long for him to discover that we had a serious problem... a leak!  A serious lead had developed in the roof and water was flowing down our kitchen wall flooding the countertops and spilling over onto the floor.  It was a mess, and one that had to be immediately addressed.  Despite the horrible conditions outside, Bob dressed in a rain suit (from his motorcycle), braved the downpour, and climbed up onto the roof of our house to locate the source through which the rain was entering.  A few minutes later I heard the pounding of a hammer followed by the return of my very soaked hubby and the noticeable slowing of the encroaching flow of water through the kitchen ceiling.  As I type this post, Bob is off to the home supply store to purchase some waterproof sealant, after which he will again mount the housetop and complete the necessary repairs.  As for the kitchen ceiling and wall, we will need to allow them to dry out before we can successfully determine the degree of damage and the steps needed to fix it.

You may be asking yourself what all this has to do with spiritual matters (since that is, of course, the basis of my blog).  In the midst of the commotion and our attempts to deal with this unsettling issue, I found it possible to give thanks to God.  I praised Him for giving us this home.  There are millions of people worldwide who have no home in which to live and who are subjected to the elements every day.  I praised God that the leak didn't happen over the top of our bed, thereby allowing us a good night's sleep prior to facing the turmoil.  I praised Him that I have a husband who possesses the knowledge and ability to address the problem and effect a repair.  I praised God that the cost to stop the leak would be minimal.  I praised Him for protecting Bob up on the roof.  I even praised Him that the rainstorm did not contain any lightning at this point.  (It should be noted here that severe thunderstorms are forecast for later today.)  I praised God... and then I praised God some more... and then I continued to praise God even more.  Giving thanks and offering praise to Almighty God is a habit to be cultivated in the Christian walk.

As long as we live on this fallen planet, we will be faced with problems in life.  We are a part of the world, but Jesus Christ assures us,  

"I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence.  In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]!  For I have overcome the world.  [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]"  (John 16:33, Amplified Bible)                          

Even in light of a terrible roof leak, I am able to see the blessings given to us by our Heavenly Father, and I choose to give Him praise and thanksgiving in all things.  Do not be mistaken, it is a choice we must make... and not always one that is easy.  When adversity is staring us in the face, it is tempting to give in to despair and discouragement.  As believers in Christ, we are called to make a choice to act in obedience and give thanks to God in all things.  It is truly amazing the level of peace and confidence that is our when we obey that command.  A leak in our ceiling no longer has the power to rob us of our confidence and joy!!

As you face the challenges of this day, I pray you will cultivate a habit of thanksgiving for all God has given you.  His love is eternally secure; His power is without limits; His knowledge is beyond our comprehension; and His protection is promised to those who believe on Him.  As you give thanks and praise to God, you will be unleashing His mighty power in your life, and those around you will see that the Lord really does make a difference in our lives every day.

"Thank [God] in everything [no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks], for this is the will of God for you [who are] in Christ Jesus [the Revealer and Mediator of that will]."  (I Thessalonians 5:18)

Pillow Cases for Christ

Satan loves to distract God's people or to give them false understanding of His Word (as found in the Bible).  One of the devil's tricks is to make believers think that "ministry" is the calling of those who are employed by the church, who hold particular church offices, or whose work is selected, sanctioned, and supervised by the local church.  Today, I would like to offer a different look at ministry-- one that is not based on the devil's narrow concept of the word.

The word ministry comes from the Greek word diakonia, which means service.  It is from that Greek word that we get the term deacon.  However, service is not to be viewed only as the duty of deacons, pastors, or other officially sanctioned members of the church.  Every believer in Christ is called to work and serve in His name in order to be a shining example of Jesus in a dark and needy world.  Ministry involves work; and work done for the purpose of representing Jesus Christ equates to worship of God.

"So then, whether you eat or dink, or whatever you may do, do all for the honor and glory of God."

(I Corinthians 10:31, Amplified Bible)

God is glorified whenever our work is done with a thankful heart and with complete commitment toward Him.  When we serve in such a way (whatever that service may look like), we become a living example of the manifest grace of God in the life of man.

Recently, I began to desire to find a meaningful place of service in my life.  When I started to pray that God would lead me to such a place, I was surprised at what He laid on my heart.  Surprised, I suppose, because I had been guilty of viewing service through the looking glass of Satan's deception and thinking it was something I could only do if I became part of a ministry team or an officially sanctioned effort of a local church.  The problem with that?  It wasn't happening!  So when I prayed for the opportunity to minister to others in Christ's name, the Lord placed into my heart and mind a ministry of pillow cases!!  Can you believe it?  Pillow cases!  What a strange thought.  How on earth could sewing pillow cases be seen as a ministry?  Now let me say here that I do love making pillow cases.  I'm not talking about your standard idea of what a simple pillow case looks like.  Rather, I'm referring here to a "specialty" pillow case for which I have a simple, but elegant pattern.  Each case requires the use of three separate fabrics, all coordinating in some way.  When finished, each one becomes a miniature work of art that causes people to smile and to run their hands over the surface in wonder and admiration.  Every pillow case I have created has culminated in the joyful smile of the person to whom I have given it.

So the question then became "How do I turn making pillow cases into a ministry of service?"  God was faithful to lay a particular cross section of people on my heart.  Having been a recipient of the hospice organization (not for myself, but for some people whom I loved dearly), I am particularly thankful for those people who are called to service in that area.  Hospice workers are a unique kind of people.  They daily bring great love, mercy, and compassion into the lives of patients who are facing end-of-life challenges and the families and loved ones of those patients.  The Lord spoke clearly and simply to me:  Make pillow cases and take them to the nearest hospice facility as a gift to the patients there.  Ask the staff to distribute them, allowing each patient to choose a case that they like from a selection you have furnished.  When that patient passes, their family should be allowed to take that pillow case home with them as a gentle reminder of the one they loved so dearly in life.  

As I thought about it, I began to realize that this "simple" ministry could have far-reaching effects on people.  Since hospice patients spend most of their time in bed, their view of the world around them becomes very restricted.  Perhaps the opportunity to look through a selection of beautiful little works of art, choosing one for themselves, and then enjoying it day by day would bring a small measure of joy to their hearts.  Family members might be involved in the act of choosing just the right case.  Those closest to the patient would surely want to know from where that special pillow case came.  Nurses and doctors caring for the patient would wonder and ask the origin of that work.  In short, everyone who views the pillow case will have questions, and the answer will always be:  "Someone who loves the Lord God and desires to minister in His name makes these pillow cases for the purpose of serving the people in this facility."

There you have it.  To some, my ministry will appear insignificant and quirky.  To those benefiting from it, it will be a moment of realizing that someone cares about their suffering.  Someone is praying for them and for their family.  Someone is showing the love of Jesus Christ to them, inviting them to know His love in a personal way for themselves.  Psalm 67 instructs us to make the love of God known to all the world. 

I recently shared the idea of my new ministry with a friend of mine who lives on our street.  She is not well and suffers from advanced COPD that keeps her confined to her home and often to her bed for days at a time.  She responded to my description of this service by saying, "I can't sew and I can't really work to make your ministry a success, but what if I gave you some money to buy fabric for your pillow cases?  Would that help?  Would that make me a part of your ministry?"  What a precious friend!  What an amazing heart of love she has.  

  While I continue my seminary studies, I will use this time wisely and serve my Lord in love through my pillow case ministry.  I trust He will bless my efforts and provide all I need to make it a reality.  I will do my very best job of sewing, pressing, and folding.  I will pray over each pillow case, asking God to use it as an encouragement in someone's life.  And I will worship and glorify God through every stitch.  Every believer in Christ has a ministry, a place of service, a work they are called to do for the purpose of making God's love known.  We have all been given a mission field.  Mine is at the sewing machine and in the McCall Hospice House (at least for this time of my life). Have you found yours?

"Whatever may be your task, work at it heartily (from the soul), as [something done] for the Lord and not for men, knowing [with all certainty] that it is from the Lord [and not from men] that you will receive the inheritance which is your [real] reward.  [The One Whom] you are actually serving [is] the Lord Christ (the Messiah)."

(Colossians 3:23-24, Amplified Bible)

Regarding Our Bodies

In my last blog I addressed the issue of self-discipline in the area of finances (not that I have totally mastered that area in my own life... but I'm working on it).  This time around I would like to "think aloud" about self-discipline where our health habits are concerned.  Now, this is one touchy subject matter and I know I'm treading on thin ice, but sometimes we just have to be willing to speak the truth in love and allow the Holy Spirit to do the rest.  So, here goes!

The medical and pharmaceutical industries are among the most powerful organizations in our world today.  Billions upon billions of dollars are spent annually worldwide in addressing the health issues of the population.  In addition, billions more are spent on alternative sources, such as the vitamin industry and holistic approaches to wellness.  (At least this money is aimed at trying to prevent illness rather than just treat its symptoms.)  However, I believe that the majority of the money thrown into these industries could be spent elsewhere (like missions, maybe?) if we would simply take charge of our bodies and make choices that would represent our good stewardship of that which we have been given of God.  Doing so requires the exercise of self-discipline.

I doubt that anyone reading this blog will not know that smoking is bad, bad, bad for health.  Nonetheless, as I drive through my own State of South Carolina I pass by countless fields of tobacco being carefully tended by dedicated farmers who make their living raising and selling the product.  Packs of cigarettes line the shelves behind every grocery counter.  Chewing tobacco is of common use in this part of the country, as well.  I have been fortunate to never have succumbed to the addiction of nicotine, but I do know that it is a powerful drug that holds many people captive... but it is an addiction that can be conquered with the help of God Almighty and the exercise of self-discipline.  Through the strength offered by the Holy Spirit, we have the ability to be set free from cigarettes or other tobacco usage.

"For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control"

(2 Timothy 1:7, Amplified Bible)

Smoking leads to a host of other health problems.  There is no question about that.  Countless research projects have proven its detriment over decades of study and research.  

If you are fortunate enough not to struggle with nicotine addiction, perhaps this next issue will touch a nerve:  Obesity is the leading factor in resultant health issues worldwide.  OUCH!  That one strikes close to home for me.  A little over one year ago I wore a size 24 dress (and I am only 5'3" tall).  I was in terrible health and battling high blood pressure, diabetes, and a whole host of other health problems directly attributable to my obesity.  In fact, the doctor informed me (much to my dismay) that I was considered "morbidly obese" at that time.  In short, that phrase means that my overweight condition would most probably result in an early death for me as a result of associated health problems.  Together with my husband I determined to get a handle on the situation and we lost significant weight over a ten month period of time.  My husband went from a size 42" waist to a 32" one, and I went from that size 24 dress to a 10-12.  Our diabetes was halted and our blood pressures returned to normal.  We never felt better in our adult lives.  Now, I am ashamed to say we've allowed some of that weight to creep back on, but we recently determined again to get serious about our health and get those 10-15 pounds back off before they become 50 or 60 pounds.  It takes self-discipline to lose weight, exercise, and make healthy choices for our bodies, but praise the Lord we don't have to do it all alone!  The Holy Spirit is always at our side and ready to give us strength and guidance if only we seek Him in our daily choices.

Obviously, there are many other factors that will determine our overall health.  Issues of alcohol consumption, the use of drugs, poor (or absent) exercise, lack of sufficient sleep, an overabundance of stress... these and more can contribute to poor health and a decline in the condition of the bodies we've been given in this life.  Stewardship does not apply to our finances alone, but to everything God has entrusted to our care, and that includes our mortal body.

"Do you not know that your body is the temple (the very sanctuary) of the Holy Spirit Who lives within you, Whom you have received [as a Gift] from God?  You are not your own, you were bought with a price [purchased with a preciousness and paid for, made His own].  So then, honor God and bring glory to Him in your body."

(I Corinthians 6:19-20, Amplified Bible)

Remember, friends, that we are not expected to reach perfection in this life.  But we are called to excellence, and that includes excellence in self-discipline and stewardship where our bodies are concerned.  This is one tough area to conquer, and I know that all too well... but it can be done through the strength of the Spirit Who lives in every believer.  If you have been angered by this post it may be because you have come under conviction, as I have, that something in your personal life needs to change.  Perhaps you have lost self-control in a certain area and it is negatively affecting your health.  Today is the day to address that.  Confession is the beginning that leads to forgiveness and strengthening.

"If we [freely] admit that we have sinned and confess our sins, He (God) is faithful and just (true to His own nature and promises) and will forgive our sins [dismiss our lawlessness] and [continuously] cleanse us from all unrighteousness [everything not in conformity to His will in purpose, thought, and action]."

(I John 1:9, Amplified Bible)

We will either be internally governed (through the exercise of self-discipline) or we will be externally governed (by doctors, hospitals, and the pharmaceutical industry).  I pray we believers will make the right choice.  Today is grocery shopping day for our household.  Hm-m-m, guess I'll be spending a lot more in the produce section this time around.

"But [like a boxer] I buffet my body [handle it roughly, discipline it by hardships] and subdue it, for fear that after proclaiming to others the Gospel and things pertaining to it, I myself should become unfit [not stand the test, be unapproved and rejected as a counterfeit]."

(I Corinthians 9:27, Amplified Bible)

Internally or Externally Governed?

One of the hallmarks of the mature Christian life is self-discipline.  We will either be internally governed (controlled) or externally governed, but one way or another we will be controlled in our actions and reactions to the events of life.  There are jails and prisons filled to overflowing with individuals who lack self-discipline and whose choices and actions have necessitated the intervention of external government through the auspices of law enforcement agencies and the court system.  As followers of Christ, we must be concerned with learning how to control ourselves appropriately so that it will not be necessary for someone else to step in and take control of us.

"He who has no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down and without walls."  (Proverbs 25:28)

There are a multitude of areas in life where self-control (or the lack of it) can become clearly evident to those around us.  Finances, weight and health issues, anger, time management, stewardship-- all these and more require that we develop a clear understanding of God's will for our lives in these areas and then set forth to live accordingly, making those choices which will honor God and enrich our lives.  In an affluent society (such as the United States), financial control is not a popular goal to seek.  In fact, the abundance of credit cards, payment plans, layaway offers, and "easy" financing options seem to give us the message that being in debt is not only to be viewed as a normal state of affairs, but we are to actually seek after those very things which will hold us in bondage so that we can "keep up with the Joneses" and live the good life now.  God has strong feelings concerning the accumulation of debt, and His Word is filled with over 800 verses that instruct us on the need for self-discipline in our lives where finances are concerned. 

"The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender."  (Proverbs 22:7)

"The wicked borrow and pay not again [for they may be unable], but the [uncompromisingly] righteous deal kindly and give [for they are able]."  (Psalm 37:21)

"It is better that you should not vow than that you should vow and not pay."  (Ecclesiastes 5:5)

"Keep out of debt and owe no man anything, except to love one another..."  (Romans 13:8a)

Once we have dug a pit of debt for ourselves, it is difficult and it takes time to work our way out of it.  There is no immediate fix for the problem.  Debt accumulates over time, and it will take time to resolve it in an honorable way.  Too many Christians are buying into the lottery craze with pie-in-the-sky hopes that they will be the one in ten-million who will win and for whom the lottery will be the miracle answer for their lack of self-control with their finances.  There are those who believe that bankruptcy is the way out for them.  The question is, is it the honorable way out?  Satan loves to see believers embroiled in debt and captive to their lenders.  He knows (as we should) that  "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stand by and be devoted to the one and despise and be against the other.  You cannot serve God and mammon (deceitful riches, money, possessions, or whatever is trusted in)."  (Matthew 6:24)  Drowning in debt will affect other areas of our lives in negative, destructive ways.  Relationships will suffer, especially the marriage relationship.  In an article by Ron Leiber of the New York Times in 2009, the odds of a marriage ending in divorce due to finances is approximately 45 percent.  Numerous health problems are directly related to the stress of financial debt in a person's life.  When debt looms over the household, the first thing to be forgotten (in the vast majority of cases) is the issue of the tithe.  No wonder the devil works so hard to undermine our self-discipline in this area of finances.

There is an answer:  Do it God's way.  Sit down (with your spouse at your side, if you have one) and begin to research the steps a Christian should take to resolve the issue of debt in his or her life.  Dave Ramsey offers a multitude of sources that will serve as a guideline to the believer of not only how to get out of debt, but how to stay out of it and begin to handle finances in a way which will glorify the Lord and make the Christian a shining example of faith, obedience, and self-discipline.  His programs have been tested and proven by multitudes of believers and non-believers alike.  The first step is to admit that you have fallen short in the area of self-discipline where your finances are concerned.  Turn to the Lord in confession and seeking His forgiveness, then ask for His supernatural empowerment to do whatever is necessary to honorably resolve your debt issues.  We are fortunate that the United States no longer operates "debtors' prisons" as such (prevalent up until the mid-1800's),  but those who are laboring under an enormous burden of debt live in their own private prison of guilt, fear, anger, confusion, and hopelessness.  Such a life is not aligned with God's will for the believer.  Jesus said, "The thief (Satan, our enemy) comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy.  I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows)."  (John 10:10)  Understand that Christ was not saying that every Christian will be wealthy.  The accumulation of money and possessions does not guarantee an abundant life.  In truth, great wealth has often been the source of tremendous sadness and discontent in the lives of those who possess it.  However, the accumulation of debt most certainly guarantees a life of misery, anxiety, and limited possibilities.

So, self-discipline in the area of finances is a definite commandment of God.  Make no mistake, either we will develop self-control with our money or we will live under the control of others to whom we owe it.  I urge you today to turn to God for His forgiveness and divine guidance in mastering the art of financial self-discipline in your life.  It is possible to live debt free in a culture consumed with greed and the love of possessions, money, and power.  Remember that as Christians we are are given this direction in God's Word:  "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."  (Romans12:2)  

In coming posts I will explore the area of self-discipline as it relates to some of the other issues in life.  Let me encourage you with this:  It is not necessary, nor is it expected, that you tackle every area of your life where you lack self-control all at once.  In truth, you need to pray for direction in which area you should begin the pursuit of excellence and self-discipline, apply the truth of Scripture to that area, and master the art of self-discipline therein.  When you have experienced victory in one area, you will be energized and renewed to take on the next challenge.  In time, you will know the freedom and joy that comes from living the disciplined Christian life.

"For the time being no discipline brings joy, but seems grievous and painful; but afterwards it yields a peaceable fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it [a harvest of fruit which consists in righteousness-- in conformity to God's will in purpose, thought, and action, resulting in right living and right standing with God]."

(Hebrews 12:11, Amplified Bible)

Inside the "Gas Chamber"

For those of you who were expecting a new post on Monday and didn't find one, please accept my apologies.  An unfortunate encounter with a sinus infection put me on the sidelines for a few days, but now I am feeling back up to snuff and ready for a new post... so here goes.

This morning I am thinking about surfing.  I'm not talking about surfing the web here, rather I'm referring to the sport of surfing in the ocean.  Before you ask, let me say that I have never been surfing, I do not own a surf board, nor do I ever expect to go surfing.  All that said, I do admire the beauty, skill, and tenacity of those who love to surf.  Having watched the sport on television, I am amazed at the tremendous energy surfers expend in just getting to the place where they can begin to enjoy the waves.  I can only imagine the amount of practice it must take to perfect the sense of balance needed to stay on that surf board and ride through some churning waters.  Certainly, they must need to practice the art of just getting onto the board from the water and then staying on the thing under even the mildest of conditions.  What a learning curve that must be.  How many falls that aspiring surf master must endure in perfecting his sense of balance, but every one of them just brings him closer to that time when he will possess the strength and courage necessary to challenge even the most ferocious of waves.

Once that feat of balance has been mastered, the surfer eagerly climbs aboard and fearlessly paddles out into the ocean to find a wave.  The bigger the wave, the better.  When he spots it coming, he jumps up to take his position on the board and waits expectantly for that moment when the wave reaches him.  Then, it joy and confidence, the surfer spreads his arms open wide and welcomes the power of the wave as it carries him back toward the shore.  Time after time I have witnessed the waves overpower the surfer and sweep him off his feet, throwing him into the churning waters with savage cruelty.  Yet, even after such a fearful experience, the seasoned surfer battles his way to the surface, locates his surf board, and once again take mount with the full intention of swimming out to meet yet another wave and try it all again.

For the veteran surfer, there is that glorious moment of finding himself in the "gas chamber."  That is the effect that is experienced when a large wave creates a temporary horizontal tunnel of air with the surfer inside it.  Within that tunnel, the surfer is carried along at a rapid speed, sheltered by the wave itself, until he emerges safely at the end of the tunnel ready to start the process of finding another wave once again.  Inside the gas chamber the surfer is alone with his thoughts and has the choice of succumbing to his fears and anxiety or rising above them to find escape at the end of the tunnel.

In the end, it's all about identifying the challenge, swimming out to meet it head-on, riding out the most terrifying moments, then emerging at the end of the tunnel to seek out the next challenge with renewed energy and confidence gained from the victory of enduring the wave from within.

I know that I could begin to draw all kinds of parallels here to the challenges of the Christian life, but I'm pretty sure you've already reached your own conclusions based on your individual experiences with the challenges of life.  Be encouraged, my friends.  With each emergence from the tunnels of despair, loneliness, grief, loss, fear, illness, uncertainty... with each victory that comes from surviving the "gas chamber" to find the way of escape at the end... the Christian who rests in the strength of his Lord and Savior becomes stronger and more secure in his faith.  He develops a sense of balance that enables him to ride the wave successfully and to share the experience with those around him.  And with each victory comes the determination to face the next wave with confidence.

Wherever you are today, whatever surf you are facing, I pray that God will renew your strength, give you clear vision, surround you with His peace, and lead you to the other side of the tunnel in victory.

"Yet amid all these things we are more than conquerors and gain a surpassing victory through Him Who loved us.  For I am persuaded beyond doubt (am sure) that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor things impending and threatening nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

(Romans 8: 37-39)