Be Wise, Don't Complain & Criticize

It seems to be the way of the world these days to complain and criticize.  Living in North Dakota, the weather is perhaps the number one choice of things to complain about.  If it isn't too cold, it is too hot.  If there isn't too much rain, there's not enough.  Chances are it might be too windy, too.  [On rare occasions, like today, we have what we call "Goldilocks Days" when everything is just right!]

When I worked as a bank teller, the most common topic of conversation with my customers was the weather.  It's actually quite comical, because no matter how much you complain, it is impossible to alter the weather.  As is often said these days, "It is what it is!"

Being critical falls closely behind complaining when it comes to negative mindsets.  It's always easier to criticize how something is being done (or NOT being done) than it is to constructively come up with a positive alternative. 

So what does the Bible have to say about complaining and being critical?  The first thought coming to mind is looking to the example of the Israelites.  God used Moses to free them from slavery in Egypt through miraculous ways, culminating in the parting of the Red Sea.  In Exodus 15 we find the Israelites singing a song of praise and thanksgiving afterwards, but we don't even finish the chapter before we hit verse 24, which says, "So the people grumbled against Moses, saying, "What are we to drink?"

From complaining about no water, they quickly moved on to complaining about their choices of food in chapter 16.  By the next chapter they were back to complaining about the water.  Further on, after Moses received the Ten Commandments from God on Mt. Sinai, along with a series of laws, we find the story of the golden calf, which was the result of their criticism of Moses in taking too long on the mountain. 

Moving to the book of Numbers, we find the Israelites on the verge of entering the Promised Land.  You would think they would be excited, but instead once again they are complaining.  Numbers 14:2 tells us, "All the Israelites grumbled against Moses and Aaron, and the whole assembly said to them, "If only we had died in Egypt!  Or in this desert!"

The result of their complaining is revealed later on in the chapter. . .forty years they would wander in the wilderness until all those twenty years old or more who had grumbled died in the desert.  Only Caleb and Joshua were spared, as they were the only two optimists in the crowd.

Jumping to the New Testament, we are reminded in Philippians 2:14 to "Do everything without grumbling or arguing".  (NIV)  Other versions use the words complaining, disputing, murmuring, and questioning.

Verse 15 makes it clear why we are to avoid these things:  ". . .so that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world. . ."

With a clear command against complaining and criticizing in the New Testament, and the example of what happens when you do in the Old Testament, I'm thinking it might be a good idea to work on bettering our mindsets.  A post on Facebook today gave a challenge:

What do you think? Would it be possible?  We'll never know unless we try.  And if we try and don't succeed,  I'm guessing the next best thing would be to "try, try again"! 

Thursday Thoughts - My Way or Your Way?

In our community there are three churches.  St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Concordia Lutheran Church and Crosby Assembly of God.  While I was growing up there was also a Presbyterian Church and a Lutheran Brethren Church. 

The roots of my faith come from the Lutheran Church, and then I fell in love with a young man who attended the Assembly of God.  What to do??  He actually didn't give me many options.  Basically, he informed me I could do whatever I wanted as far as church attendance, but he wasn't changing.

Okay, then.  I couldn't foresee trying to raise a family in two different churches, so opted to make the change.  Surely, I figured, it couldn't be all that different.  Turned out on the most important issues we agreed. 

There is only one God.  He exists as God the Father, Jesus the Son and the Holy Spirit.  God's Word is our source of infallible truth and is the guideline for our lives.  God so loved the world He sent His son, Jesus, to earth as a baby to grow and live a sinless life, then be crucified on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins.

Over the years, I have learned to accept there are differences, as well.  The Lutheran Church is more liturgical, with a set order of service.  The format of the services at the Assembly of God is less structured, and yet still follows a similar pattern each week. 

The truth is, God isn't interested in the name of the church you attend.  Instead, He is looking for the sincerity of your heart.  Are you truly seeking a relationship with Him through belief in Jesus?  Are you wanting to pattern your life after the example Jesus left us?  Are you wanting to find fellowship with others who believe as you do?  Are you looking to spread God's "Good News" to others?

Sometimes I think denominations are a tool of the devil to keep us divided.  After all, if we ever would all get on the same page, he wouldn't have a chance!  On the other hand, God is a God of variety.  How many different kinds of trees are there?  How about flowers?  Or animals?  Or birds?  Or fish?  Yes, looking at His creation, I get the impression God is okay with being of the same core and yet being unique. 

So who is right?  It matters not as long as my way and your way are God's way! 

All in A Day

From morning to afternoon and on into the evening, Tuesdays are always busy in my world.  An outdoor yoga class starts the day, and today we were pleased to have two new members join our group.  Stretching is good for the body, and the beauty of the outdoors is good for the soul.

Once back home, there were flowers to water and the garden to check.  The lettuce is particularly prolific this year, and sugar snap pea pods are quickly filling out.  Three cucumbers have already been picked, and it looks like several more are close behind.  Sharing may become part of the plan!

Retirement has given me the freedom to join with a group of "Music Makers" who perform weekly at our nursing home, and monthly at the assisted living center.  Today was our "double duty" day with an hour of music at each facility. 

Piano, guitar, accordion, harmonica and rhythm sticks are handled expertly, and with a new pastor in town we've gained a banjo player.  It is a joy to provide the vocals, while many in the audience sing along, or tap a toe in time to the music.

With the music lingering in my brain, it's off to water aerobics at the outdoor swimming pool.  Once more the blues and greens of nature are an added blessing to my time of exercise.  The water feels cold to begin with, but soon we warm up with the rigorous movements.

Walking home, the age old question goes through my mind.  "What's for supper?"  It was a real treat to find my hubby all ready to cook steaks on his newly assembled grill.  Potato salad from the grocery store deli added to the meal, along with watermelon to finish it off.

Having been busy all day, the evening was devoted to my daily visiting routine.  Two very special women in their 90's bless my world as I take a few minutes to check in on theirs.  One is my aunt and the other a newly found friend in retirement.  What a wealth of knowledge and history they are!

Now, once again back home, I wind down the day and look for a triumph in my Tuesday.  Perhaps just getting through it all is a triumph in itself!  Paging through my Bible, my eyes fall on the words of Psalm 62:5-7:

Find rest, O my soul, in God alone;

my hope comes from Him.

He alone is my rock and my salvation;

He is my fortress, I will not be shaken.

My salvation and my honor depend on God;

He is my mighty rock, my refuge.

 

 

Yes, indeed, it has been a good day!

 

 

Simple Moments of Prayer

There are moments in my life when I feel very overwhelmed.  Part of this comes from my perfectionistic tendencies which want to fix the world.  The other part comes from the realistic voice which reminds me I can't.

This morning was one of those times when I was feeling a need to be so many things to so many people.  It seems when I dwell on this, it only exaggerates the problems.  I found myself trying to sort through my thoughts to prioritize and figure out exactly what I could do and when.

It was then, in my frustration, I took a break and simply started scrolling through Facebook.  Far too much of my time is wasted doing this, but today I found myself asking God to speak to me through some random post on the newsfeed.

Not too far into my scrolling I came across a post from an organization called "Turning Point", which was available through DAVIDJEREMIAH.ORG.   It wasn't surprising to see it had been shared by my very dear friend.  The words were simple, but exactly what I needed for the day:

 

THE GREATEST

MINISTRY TO

OTHERS

MAY JUST BE

A SIMPLE PRAYER.

 

"Help me, O Lord, to take more time in my day for simple prayer.  Grant me the grace to leave the answers to Your perfect timing and perfect way.  In the name of Jesus I pray. . .simply.  AMEN"

 

 

 



In Christ Alone. . .Nearer and Clearer

This morning in our worship service, one of the songs we sang was "In Christ Alone".  The words were projected on a screen at the front of the church using a YouTube presentation.  As the song began, the background appeared to be blue around the edges, with a lighter spot in the middle.

If you are familiar with the song, the verses highlight the life of Jesus, beginning with His life as a helpless baby, and moving on to His death on a cross.  From there, the focus turns to His body lying in the ground followed by His glorious bursting forth as our risen again Savior.

The song alway moves me as I think about what Christ Jesus did for me.  What made the song extra special this morning was the way the video was presented.  As the song moved along, the blurry spot in the background gradually became clearer, until at the end of the song it became a clear picture of Christ.

How much do you know about the life of Christ, and how clear a picture of Him do you hold in your heart and mind?  Perhaps listening to this song will bring it all into focus for you!

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=u4g3Wu375PE

Saturday Seeking - "Baby Shower Memories"

An afternoon outing today brought back memories of a similar event some years ago.  At the time, it prompted me to do a Saturday Seeking devotional.  Turns out it was about eight and a half years ago.  Have I really been doing these writings that long?  They do say time flies when you're having fun!

Looking over the reading to share again, I see a few similarities and a few differences.  Yes, it was a busy Saturday in my life today.  No, I did not have to do teller duty this morning at Farmers State Bank.  Yes, there was a baby shower today, only this time for just one baby.  No, it was not at our church, but in a nice room off the lobby of our new motel.

Although I did not have to supply a devotional, something made me think of the lesson given me back then.  And yes, the message is still relevant today!

01/21/06 Growing as a Christian

Today was a busy Saturday in my life. The morning found me doing teller duty at Farmers State Bank, and in the afternoon we hosted a double baby shower at our church. The babies were just two weeks apart in age, and it was fun to see them together. As a part of the shower I was asked to have a devotional. All week I was running ideas across my brain as to what I would say to these young mothers. Finally it was the night before and I still didn’t have a definite plan in mind.

With the modern age of computers I was sure I could find a quick solution on the Internet. Two hours and many searches later, I still didn’t have anything profound to share. As a last resort I picked up my Bible and started paging through for inspiration. Low and behold, I found some verses to inspire me and decided to speak on growing in our Christian walk. 

Looking back, I wonder why the Bible was my last resort? Sometimes we try so hard to find answers elsewhere, when they are all right there in God’s book. What we need is a little faith He will show them to us. And faith is just where my lesson had its start. As I was searching for something special to share, I came across 2 Peter 1, verses 5-8. These verses say, “For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

In these verses I could see qualities beneficial in the role of a mother, qualities to help them guide their daughters into a relationship with God. As we send our children out into the world, we can’t go with them, but God can and does. Therefore we need to establish their identity in Christ so they will have an eternal purpose and meaning in life.

These verses spoke to me of a growing process we need to go through, which reminded me of the “Wordless Book” evangelism tool I have used in my Wednesday night lessons with kids. This book is made up of a black page, a red page, a white page, a green page and a yellow page. The black page represents our life of sin, the red page is Jesus’ blood shed for the forgiveness of our sins, & the white page represents how His blood washes us white as snow. The green page stands for the growing process necessary in our life as a Christian, and the yellow symbolizes the promise of our heavenly home with streets of gold.

In my experience, many people want to skip over the green page. God gave me the following lesson guide to share in my devotional on growing in the Lord:

G is for Going to Church--Hebrews 10:25 tells us we should not give up meeting together. It is not only a time of instruction, but also a time we can encourage one another.

R is for Reading the Bible--In Psalm 119 verse 105, we read God’s word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path. 

O is for Obeying God’s Commandments--In the Old Testament God gave Moses a list of ten commandments which later Jesus summed up into two: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. The second most important is like it, in that we shall love our neighbor as ourselves”. (Matthew 22:37 & 39)

W is for Worship--Hebrews 12:28 tells us we need to be thankful and worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.

This week take time to evaluate how much you have grown in the Lord. Are you are using the tools God has provided to draw you closer to Him? Keep the faith, and let it lead you through the steps in 2 Peter 1 to a life filled with God’s love. Then remember to share those qualities with everyone around you!

Dragonflies and Direction

Thursday began in a different way today.  Usually I am up and off to an outdoor yoga class by 8:00am.  Today, however, our class was cancelled, giving me an opportunity to sleep in.  After awakening, I looked out my kitchen window, and was welcomed by a host of visitors.

Flying everywhere in our backyard were dragonflies.  It seems on an annual basis they show up for a day or so and then move on.  Even by this evening, most of them were no where to be found.  Although they seem like a nuisance, we welcome them as they enjoy snacking on mosquitos!

Most of them were about three inches in length, with an even longer wingspan.  Doing some research, I found there are many different kinds of dragonflies.  My visitors were brown with black and white rings around the body.  Some also had light blue markings. 

As I watched them, I marveled at yet another of God's creations.  If they were able to talk, what kind of stories they would tell of their travels?  And how is it they know just where to fly and when to move on?  Perhaps they are following their own type of GPS unit, uniquely planted into them by their Creator.

If God cared enough about dragonflies to give them a sense of direction, how much more does He care for us, His children.  As a matter of fact, He cared enough to provide us with a wonderful guidebook for our lives.  Throughout the pages of the Bible we find hidden the answers to all of life's perplexing questions.  God's Word is a Living Word which speaks anew to us on a daily basis.

Why is it so often we neglect to read and heed the precious words?  With fondness I remember the words of my grandmother, given as her best advice at the age of 100.

Read the Word, and stick to it!

Have you had your daily dose of direction from the Lord today?

Water Tower Wisdom

Today was a sad day in the history of Crosby, ND.  Since 1926 the Crosby water tower has stood tall and proud against the skyline.  It has served us well over the years, but the time came when a larger capacity tower was needed.  With the new tower now functioning, it was time to dismantle the old one.

Walking to my morning exercise class, I noticed men at work cutting holes into the side walls of the tower.  Just a half hour later, they had already lifted off the top section.  Visiting with someone who had watched it come down, they commented it had gone so fast they hadn't even had time to pull over and take a picture.

With camera in hand, I documented as, piece by piece, the sides came down.  Two hours later, as we were leaving town, they had just begun the process of removing the legs.  By the time we returned at 6:00pm there remained no evidence it had ever been there.

As I walked across town to an evening meeting, it felt lonely without its presence towering over me.  It has become a habit of mine to look for "God lessons" in my everyday world, and I found myself asking God to reveal some hidden meaning in the events of the day.

The verses He brought to mind are found in Philippians 3.  In verse 10 of this chapter, Paul indicates he wants to "know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead."

The next section of verses in my Bible come under the heading of "Pressing on Toward the Goal".  Paul admits he has not already obtained all of this, nor has he been made perfect.  But he presses on.  He indicates he is forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead.  He presses on toward the goal to win the prize for which God called him.

Arriving at verse 15, I find these words, "All of us who are mature should take such a view of things".  An easy way to sum up his thoughts is to say, "Don't dwell on the past".  Yes, we can cherish memories, but our focus should always be forward and onward to the next step in God's plan. 

For now, there is an empty space where once stood a water tower.  Perhaps its absence will remind us to ask of God, "What is next?  What plan do you have waiting for Crosby, ND?  What part can those of us who live here play in promoting your Kingdom to those you send our way?

May we say, as Samuel did:

"Speak, for your servant is listening."

 

There is Peace in the Quiet

It was a whirlwind of a week-end, packed with activity.  Not a minute was wasted as we crammed as much as we could into a three day stretch.  But today the house was quiet.  No best friend to visit with.  No grandchildren running around the house.  Were it not for the sound of the washing machine and dryer, along with the music from my iPad, you likely could have heard a pin drop.

As much as I love each one who created a piece of noise in my life over the week-end, I was ready for the quiet.  My brain was able to slow down a notch and a gentle drizzle made for a perfect "catch my breath" kind of day.

My husband's brother, who is a pastor, once said, "If satan can't make you bad, he'll make you busy."  There is a certain element of truth to this.  We can even get busy doing good things and fail to take time to quiet our inner spirit long enough to hear the "still, small voice" of God speaking to us.

Have you heard Him today?

Be still and know that I am God. ~Psalm 46:10

Sunday Song - "Friends"

This week-end included a visit from my best ever girlfriend, a gathering of 18 of the 58 graduates of the DCHS Class of 1974 for our 40th reunion, and a busy day with the kids and grandkids here to celebrate my husband's 59th birthday.  Some friends stay with you through life, others pop in now and then, but always they remain close in our hearts when "the Lord's the Lord of them"!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ped1jYLFtkA

"Friends" by Michael W. Smith

Packing up the dreams God planted
In the fertile soil of you
I can't believe the hopes He's granted
Means a chapter of your life is through

But we'll keep you close as always
It won't even seem you've gone
'Cause our hearts in big and small ways
Will keep the love that keeps us strong

And friends are friends forever
If the Lord's the Lord of them
And a friend will not say never
'Cause the welcome will not end
Though it's hard to let you go
In the Father's hands we know
That a lifetime's not too long
To live as friends

And with the faith and love God's given
Springing from the hope we know
We will pray the joy you live in
Is the strength that now you show

We'll keep you close as always
It won't even seem you've gone
'Cause our hearts in big and small ways
Will keep the love that keeps us strong

And friends are friends forever
If the Lord's the Lord of them
And a friend will not say never
'Cause the welcome will not end
Though it's hard to let you go
In the Father's hands we know
That a lifetime's not too long
To live as friends

And friends are friends forever
If the Lord's the Lord of them
And a friend will not say never
'Cause the welcome will not end
Though it's hard to let you go
In the Father's hands we know
That a lifetime's not too long
To live as friends

To live as friends

Though it's hard to let you go
In the Father's hands we know
That a lifetime's not too long
To live as friends

No a lifetime's not too long
To live as friends

Special People! Special Thoughts!

We're coming up on the third week-end in July.  Living in Crosby, ND, this means an increase in population due to the upcoming Divide County Threshing Bee.  People come from all over the United States and beyond to watch the antique tractors run through a parade, and to see how life once was on the prairie by strolling through our Pioneer Village.

Today was made extra special for me by the arrival of my dearest and best friend.  On top of this, we were invited to a birthday party for my brother and niece and were surprised to see more out of town guests who have been long time friends of our family.  There was good food, fellowship and abundant laughter as we caught up on each other's lives and shared memories.

Tomorrow my friend and I will be up bright and early to help serve breakfast to the early visitors to the Bee.  The hometown volunteers who make this week-end possible are always grateful when even the guests offer to help.  It's just the way we do things up here in North Dakota.

Expecting to hit the bed shortly after arriving home, I received a surprise "early" birthday present from my friend. Although my birthday doesn't come until the end of August, she wanted to see my reaction to her gift, so brought it with.

And what did I think?  I love it!  It was a plaque fitting for whatever comes our way over the week-end, and will serve as a constant reminder of her friendship and of WHO is in control!

 

Words of Wisdom for Wednesday

Heard on the radio this evening on the way home from another fun day in Williston:

Pray harder when it's hardest to pray.

Yes, there are many times in my life I could have used this wisdom!

A Triumphant Party!

There's nothing quite like successfully pulling off a surprise birthday party.  Better yet, when the birthday lady is a very special one who happened to turn 90 today.  Actually, she won't tell her age, but some pretty reliable sources made it be known today.

Since my retirement last year, I have been greatly blessed through visits with this wonderful woman.  Although I have always known who she was, it wasn't until this past year that I've had the opportunity to really get to know her.

Imagine all she has experienced in her lifetime.  She grew up on a farm south and west of Crosby.  She was a hard worker, both for her father growing up, and in later years at various businesses in Ambrose and Crosby.  She has worn many hats over the years, but most of them have a common thread to them.  She enjoys working with food, and she loves being with people.

What a joy it was to see her walk into "Just Jude's", assisted by her son, only to be welcomed unexpectedly by a room full of friends singing "Happy Birthday".  At first, she was nearly speechless and could hardly believe what was happening.  Later, as friend after friend extended their greetings, she was generous with her thanks and had a warm hug for everyone.

God bless you richly, Louise!  You are a blessing to many!!  Happy, Happy Birthday to you!!

A Word to the Wise for Wednesday

A Penny Found!

Walking to exercise class this morning I spotted a penny on the ground.  It was even "heads up", so considered safe to pick up.  According to one superstition, if it is "tails" you should leave it, as it would be bad luck.  The little saying made it's way through my brain:  "Find a penny, pick it up.  All the day you'll have good luck."

Another concept I've heard is finding a penny means someone in heaven is thinking of you and sent the penny to remind you of their love.  This is a good thought, too, but with so many special people waiting on the other side, I'd think we'd be seeing more pennies laying around!

There are people who purposely drop their change for someone to later find.  I remember how exciting it was if a coin was discovered as a child!  Personally, I like to keep the change and add it to one of our special spots. . .the antique pickle jar for pennies (currently full and overflowing to another glass bottle), the rose bowl for dimes (for a special church project) and the old fish bowl for quarters and nickels (our vacation "fun money").

It actually amazes me they still make pennies.  I heard once it costs more to make them than they are worth.  Wouldn't it make more sense to round everything off to the nearest dollar and eliminate the coins entirely?  Then we could turn in all the coin, melt it down and sell the metal.  Perhaps the funds could be applied against the national debt.  Amazing what thoughts can be generated from a single penny found!

The Bible talks about a woman who only had two small coins, but gave them as her offering.  Others gave great sums of money, but were considered not as generous because they gave out of their abundance, whereas she gave all she had.

What are you willing to contribute to God's work?

Sunday Song - "Gather Us In"

There's a new couple in town!  This afternoon they were installed as pastors of a newly formed parish which will include congregations of five area Lutheran churches.  Although I no longer attend the Lutheran church, it was a huge part of my roots and I wanted to be a part of the celebration.  I especially enjoyed the "Gathering Song", which was composed by Marty Haugen.  It seemed fitting for the occasion, and here for your review are the words:

Gather Us In

Here in this place new light is streaming,
now is the darkness vanished away;
see in this space our fears and our dreamings
brought here to you in the light of this day.
Gather us in, the lost and forsaken,
gather us in, the blind and the lame;
call to us now, and we shall awaken,
we shall arise at the sound of our name.

We are the young, our lives are a mystery,
we are the old who yearn for your face;
we have been sung throughout all of history,
called to be light to the whole human race.
Gather us in, the rich and the haughty,
gather us in, the proud and the strong;
give us a heart, so meek and so lowly,
give us the courage to enter the song.

Here we will take the wine and the water,
here we will take the bread of new birth,
here you shall call your sons and your daughters,
call us anew to be salt for the earth.
Give us to drink the wine of compassion,
give us to eat the bread that is you;
nourish us well, and teach us to fashion
lives that are holy and hearts that are true.

Not in the dark of buildings confining,
not in some heaven, light years away—
here in this place the new light is shining,
now is the kingdom, and now is the day.
Gather us in and hold us forever,
gather us in and make us your own;
gather us in, all peoples together,
fire of love in our flesh and our bone.

Praying today for this fellowship and their new shepherds, that God will use them abundantly in the days ahead! 

Saturday Seeking - "On Becoming a Grandma"

It was a joy today to be able to spend time with my four grandchildren.  While the little guy was napping, the older three and I visited a quaint store in Williston called "Books on Broadway".  We enjoyed a treat at the soda fountain, then took some time browsing the books.  We decided to buy the youngest a book, since he didn't get a treat.  It was hard to concentrate on picking one out, however, as each of them was more interested in checking out the things they liked!

Back home, we ate pizza, played and took baths and showers while their mom and dad had a "date".  While in our granddaughter's bedroom, I noticed a couple of photo albums out, and decided to check them out.  What I found were pictures taken in the fall of 2005 when the oldest grandson was born.  It brought back lots of memories. . .including this writing.  May you find a message as we reminisce!


10/22/05 On Becoming a Grandma

It has been over six weeks now since I became “Grandma” to a cute little guy named Jeremiah Douglas Crosby.  He has brought great joy into my life, and has also been the source of new growth in my walk with the Lord.  It amazes me how God can use everything He brings into our lives to challenge and instruct us.

The first lesson Jeremiah taught me came the week before he was born.  I had a doctor appointment in Bismarck, so decided to take a few extra days and help Rebekah prepare for baby’s arrival.   We were able to stock the freezer with a number of different quick meals, along with a few treats for the new Dad to snack on.  When we weren’t cooking, we were busy doing cleaning.

After our cleaning spree was over, Wes told one of his friends his mother-in-law came and cleaned the whole apartment.  He said,  “She cleaned places we didn’t know were dirty and even places we didn’t know we could clean!”  Somehow it was more satisfying to me to clean someone else’s home, and I wanted to be as thorough as possible to prepare for the new life that would soon become a resident there.

While I was cleaning, the thought occurred to me it is also important to keep our spiritual homes clean and in order.  1 Corinthians 3:16 tells us we are God’s temple and His Spirit lives in us.  But often, instead of giving our own lives a good “fall cleaning”, we want to look at others and see what should be cleaned in their lives.

After Jeremiah was born, I took a week off work to stay with the new family and help out as only a Grandma can.  We were thankful we had done the major cleaning the week before, so we could focus on getting to know this new life God had blessed us with.  It was evident Jeremiah was totally dependent on others to meet his needs.  God had provided Jeremiah with a healthy cry to alert us when something needed attention.

Much in the same way, we are totally dependent on our Heavenly Father to meet our needs.  He has given us a means to cry out to Him through the avenue of prayer, and is always there to answer.  There were times we didn’t know exactly what Jeremiah needed, and we would do our best to figure him out.  God, however, is always aware of each need in our lives.  He knows not only the need, but also just what it will take to meet the need. 

This week’s seeking lesson is to take time to look at your own life.  Are there corners that need cleaning?  Is the dust accumulating and in need of God’s removal?  Remember it is not your position to criticize the cleanliness of someone else’s spiritual home.  God is working on each of us in His own time and His own way.  As you become aware of the needs in your life (and even when you don’t know what they are!) cry out to your Heavenly Father.  He is more than able to hear your cry, cradle you in His arms and provide just the answer you are looking for.

Friday Fruit - SELF CONTROL

Anyone who knows my husband knows he has a sweet tooth.  Although candy is not often a temptation for me, there are certain things I have a hard time resisting.  One of them is candy corn.  Why, I'm not sure, since it is sickening sweet.  But, without fail, I have to buy at least one bag of the orange, yellow and white kind at Halloween and another of the pastel colored ones at Easter.

This past Easter, I told myself, "One bag only!".  Then came the after Easter sale at J.Co. Drug and there were two bags of discounted candy corn.  "Okay, just one more bag, but I'm not getting both of them!" came the little voice in my head.

Fast forward a couple of months and the last bag was still there, now on the 4th of July clearance shelf.  And, yes, this week I bought it.  Now it has it's place in a quaint candy dish on the shelf of our corner china hutch.  Each time I go past I find myself stopping and taking one of each color. . .yellow, pink, purple and green.  It is still sickening sweet, only now not as fresh.  But I eat it because it's there.  

This, I decided is the secret to keeping me from eating candy.  Simply don't bring any into the house.  If it's not there, I don't miss it.  I don't crave it.  I love snacking on fruit instead.  But sadly, if it's there, I eat it. 

Many times I've asked my husband to please abstain from bringing candy into the house.  But he just can't resist it, especially those big "Child's Play" bags with tootsie rolls, tootsie pop suckers and dots candies.  As a good wife, I try to keep healthier snacks on hand.  Things like peanuts, pistachios, almonds and cashews.  Oh, he'll eat them, too.  But the sweet tooth needs satisfying often.  It's what happens when you have an addiction, in this case, to sugar.

How do you break an addiction?  It comes down to the last item listed in the "Fruit of the Spirit" in Galatians 5:22-23.  My personal opinion is self control is the last fruit, because it is the hardest to obtain.  Consequently, if you see my husband buying candy, please ask him to kindly not bring it home!



 

In Need of an Overdose??

Everyone is in need of medicine now and then.  Sometimes you need the kind a doctor prescribes, and other times an over the counter product will do the trick.  Proverbs 17:22 talks about a kind of medicine we all can obtain for free.  Different translations use different wording, but all have the same connotation.  Be it a merry heart, a cheerful heart, a joyful or rejoicing one, Solomon, said having one would do good like a medicine.

Often you will hear the phrase, "Laughter is the best medicine".  If this is true, those of us attending John Bayer's "One Man Show" tonight got an overdose.  His book, "15 Months of Winter--My Year in North" is now available in bookstores and online, but hearing his humor live and in person was just what I needed.

As I listened to the sound of many people laughing, it warmed my heart. . .must have been the medicine taking effect!  Perhaps that is what's missing in today's world.  People walk around, cellphone in hand, most of the time quite expressionless.  If it's like our house, the blank look is also found in front on an iPad, computer or TV.

What do you think?   Are we in need of an overdose of this good medicine?  Tonight was a good start!

German Words of Wisdom

One of the most enjoyable parts of retirement has been having the extra time to spend with my dear Aunt Mabel, who this year reached the age of 92.  You would never guess her age were you to follow her around for a day.  This evening I found her sitting on her deck surrounded by a yard filled with beautiful flowers, all tended daily by her amazing green thumbs.

Earlier she had been cutting up rhubarb to freeze, and had moved outside when she received a phone call from her daughter.  It was a good opportunity for me to say hello, as well.  After our phone conversations ended, another call came from a classmate of another daughter.  They were in town and were hoping to set up a date for pie and coffee.  They agreed on a day and time, and Mabel filed it away in her brain the need to bake pie later in the week.

Often I will find her cooking up a storm to help out with meals on her son's farm.  Until last year, when her kids took the key to her lawn mower away, she was cutting her own grass.  Now she relies on a young man to do the job, but misses the freedom to do it when she sees the need, which is often before he has the time to get there.

She hosts coffee parties for friends and is always looking for ways to lend a hand to anyone and everyone.  She truly amazes me, and has been a wonderful mentor to follow in life.  God certainly blessed me by giving her to me as an aunt, and also a godmother.

Tonight, as I watched her finish bagging up the cut rhubarb, I noticed a plaque on the wall.  Had it been there all along, or was I just seeing it tonight for the first time?  The inscription was in the language of her heritage. . .German:  "Arbeite und strebe aber lebe!"  Asking for a translation, she told me it meant, "Work and strive but love!"  Now that's what I call some good words of wisdom!  And it is obvious she lives by this mantra daily. 

Now, if I can just get the Norwegian half of me to listen, too!

Time Flies Triumphant!

The old saying tells us "time flies when you're having fun", and such was the case over this past week-end as we attended the wedding of our niece.  Lots of family, lots of food, lots of fun and fireworks on top of it all!

It seems, however, when I allow time for extra fun, something else has to give.  No longer did I take a few minutes at the end of the day to write a few words and share a few thoughts.  How easy it was to just "let it slide".

Once back home, it was just as easy to put off writing for another day, with lots of other things vying for my attention.  Here it is, nearly midnight, and another day almost slipped by.  It was a busy day, filled with everything from yoga to lunch with my aunt (lots of wedding pictures to share!) to singing at the nursing home with my "Music Makers" friends to catching up on laundry.  The evening project was finishing a photo book.

Whew! As I look around, the dishes aren't done, the clutter is still there and there are so many things on my "to do" list.  How do I accomplish it all?  Perhaps I never will.  And that's okay.  As for tomorrow, I will say with the Psalmist, "Direct my footsteps according to Your Word". (Psalm 119:133).

But for now, I best concentrate on another verse found in Psalm 4:8.

"I will lie down and sleep in peace, for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety."

Christian Pride

Recently I was made aware of the big "Gay Pride" parade held in Minneapolis.  Since then, I have been thinking.  Perhaps we should start having "Christian Pride" parades around the country, honoring our faith and putting it out there where people can see it.  Would it work?  How would it be received?  Or would those opposed to Christianity find a way to put a stop to it?

It has always amazed me how everyone has their rights except the Christians.  We are to quietly sit in our churches and not offend anyone.  But is this the way God wants it?  Not according to Jesus:

"Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation."
                                                                                   -Mark 16:15

Everyone loves a parade. . .what better way to spread the gospel!  What do you think??

A Word to the Wise

Coming up on my 40 year Class Reunion, my thoughts often go back to my school days.  If you were to ask any of my classmates what a word to the wise is, they would likely reply, "Sufficient . . .S-U-F-F-I-C-I-E-N-T".  We, at one time, had an English teacher whose favorite saying was, "A word to the wise is sufficient".  We not only had to know the quote, but how to spell the word.

As I think about it today, there comes a question. . .is a word to the wise still sufficient?  Or, if I were to sum up one word to the wise, would I choose a different one?  Looking to God's Word, perhaps I would choose "Love. . . L-O-V-E"!  For one thing, it is much easier to spell.  Also, it encompasses all of what God asks of us in life.

In both Matthew 22 and Mark 12 we find the words of Jesus recording what He felt was the greatest commandment.  He cited two, both referencing love.  First we are to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul and mind and secondly, we are to love our neighbor as ourselves.  Pretty simple, actually.  I'm thinking the world would be a better place if each of us would take the time to obey.

What would your word to the wise be?

Triumph or Defeat?

Yesterday's Supreme Court ruling involving the Hobby Lobby chain of stores has received a great deal of attention.  Depending on which side of the fence you are on, it could be a triumph or a defeat.  As I review the information floating around the Internet, there are valid points made on both sides.  So was the decision right or wrong?

Some time ago I read a book entitled "Everything Belongs" by Richard Rohr.  It would probably be beneficial to read it again, but as I recall there was a focus on seeing things not as "right" or "wrong" but as "everything belongs for a greater purpose".

Think about your own life.  If you search the memory banks long enough, you will likely come up with something which, at the time, seemed like "the right thing" to do.  Later on, however, as you look back on the incident, you may find it wasn't really right at all.  Conversely, something which seemed wrong at the time may eventually turn out to be a good thing.

Right or wrong, you can usually trace through and find a reason the event belongs in your life story.  If you can't see it now, there will be a point in time where God will make it all clear.  The same goes with events which happen in the world around us.

One of my favorite verses is found in Romans 8:28.  It says, "All things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purposes."  I love the way it encompasses everything. . .things we feel are right and things we see as wrong.  Will it all be good?  If you look closely, it doesn't say everything will be good, but rather everything will work together for good. 

It would be nice if our world could be freed from controversy. But somehow, for now, it belongs.  What a blessing it will be when Jesus returns to put everything back in order.  Something tells me we might all be in for a few surprises when the time comes!