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PEACE & JOY EXIST INSIDE YOU

“Peace and joy exist right there within you–all the time–even when you are in the midst of difficult circumstances. And whether you can access them is not dependent upon your moods or your reactions to external circumstances. And, this gift of joy takes a bit of practice to receive. It takes intention. It takes desire. It takes faith.” (source Gather Ministries)

This paragraph is from a devotional I used during part of my sabbatical. Titled “Reaching for Joy” this excerpt truly defines for me an ability to experience joy in all that life gives, whether moments of extreme highs or depths of lowliness. I like that the writer says “this gift of joy takes practice to receive” affirming that when hard stuff comes along there IS a way to reach the other side of feeling devastated, alone, or having no hope.

I’m a people person. Sometimes that characteristic has driven my family nuts. When our son was a youngster he actually asked me “do you have to talk to people wherever we go?” Yes. Yes, I do. I am an extrovert who is fueled by meeting and conversing with people whether strangers, family, or friends.

So, naturally, when I went north for several days alone during my sabbatical, I literally asked God to allow me to meet people, to place folks on my path for divine appointments or mere conversation. And, He’s so faithful. He comes through every time I ask this request.

One evening north I was able to enjoy an early dinner with a niece that we don’t see often through the year due to distance. She actually lives south of Traverse City. She chose a restaurant near where I was staying and our evening started out great as we began to catch up on life over a drink. Soon, the restaurant filled with “locals” (we found out later that that Thursday was their reopening for a new summer season for vacationers on Torch Lake. Couples and families stood near the entrance waiting for an empty table. We were at a six top and as we were finishing our salads, a woman approached asking if they could join us–herself and a married couple–all about my age. “Sure!” we said. That’s how we met Murray, Patty, and Theresa. Over the next hour or so three strangers asked questions, listened and laughed over shared experiences. 

As is often the case, the questions turned to “what do you do?” Ashley shared about being a doctor on staff at Munson Medical in their physical therapy department. I replied that I was active in lay ministry for Celebrate Recovery. They all marveled over our “work” but it was Theresa who leaned in closer so-to-speak taking our new connection to a deeper more personal level.

Without much hesitation she told us that she understood the 12 steps of recovery very well. I had explained to her that not everyone who attends Celebrate Recovery is an addict, that I had entered the program to deal with anger and eventually my own sugar addiction. Theresa immediately latched on to understanding anger. To my astonishment she relayed details surrounding the death of her young adult son, actually describing the incident as an unsolved murder. If that loss wasn’t enough to endure, she’s also a widow. As I listened to her I didn’t detect bitterness, deep seeded anger or lack of hope. On the contrary, even while divulging a very personal difficult time in her life to me, her countenance remained peaceful and engaged in “life”. 

Also stemming from her conversation came celebrating Patty’s 20 year cancer remission, joined by Theresa declaring her own 10 year remission from cancer…all of which we gladly raised our glasses in a toast to God’s goodness and renewed health.

As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Remain in My love. If you keep My commandments, you will remain in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and remain in His love. I have told you these things so that My joy may be in you and your joy may be complete. (John 15: 9-11)

Imagine my pleasure meeting and spending time with three people who at first were complete strangers asking for a place at our restaurant table. Further imagine my delight getting to know them, devouring our moments together, fully realizing we will most likely never cross paths again. And, before you think I’m saying it’s easier said than done to triumph over horrific events in life, nothing could be further than the truth. Life is hard. Life can be very unfair. It certainly was for Theresa but that’s not the woman I met. I became acquainted with someone who lived through her circumstances and is now on the “other side”, abiding in God’s love and promises for her.

I love that in the midst of my time with Murry, Patty, and Theresa–along with my niece–that I remarked to her “isn’t it fun to share a table with people you don’t know” and her response will always echo in my memories ….”yes–! And we’ll keep making the table bigger so more people can join us”.

Joy isn’t connected to worldly circumstances. True joy is rooted in the deeper reality of God’s goodness. (Gather Ministries, Reaching for Joy Devotional)

My advice to you? My challenge to you? Next time you’ve got empty chairs at your dining table, invite someone to join you. Or, if you’re like Theresa, walk up to a few people and say “can we join you?”

I promise, something of God’s goodness will happen.

ALL GOOD THINGS COME TO AN END

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“Taking a break was refreshing, but I’m back and ready to shine”. (Unknown source)

Does time fly? Can we go back in time? Is there anything new under the sun?

Interesting concepts to ponder, aren’t they?

At the end of March I temporarily said “goodbye” to my normal schedule that is created from obligations–primarily in a couple of roles at my church home–along with bidding my readers, those here in the News as well as my personal blog and social media, an announcement that I needed a sabbatical. Looking back, March’s date seems to be a very far past point in my life. Now, in the midst of mid-May, I’m re-entering so to speak, all that was very routine for me day-to-day, week to week. 

Does time fly? Yes, it does. Can we go back in time? No. To do so physically is impossible, however, memories from our past live on in our minds and hearts, especially when returning “home”.

When I planned my sabbatical I made a list of personal goals that I hoped to cross off my bucket list. I will write about them in the future and share experiences that have become part of fond memories. Some of my goals were to get away alone for a few days, rejuvenate my relationship with God, spend time with some relatives who live near the area I traveled to, get outside on hiking trails, meet new people. I even chose the exact date I would travel north to spend time alone in a beautiful home offered by the generosity of very dear friends. But, another goal I had listed was to have God interrupt me on the path laid out for me, to encounter what I like to refer to as “divine appointments”.

I didn’t leave on the day I had originally planned. My departure was delayed when I learned that my dear cousin Willie was hospitalized in Saginaw, my home city. Each text I received from his family informed me of his serious condition, his body fighting a fierce infection. On Tuesday, April 8 I made the drive alone to Saginaw to visit and possibly say my “goodbye”. Since I knew the day would be mine alone to choose any activities, upon my arrival in Saginaw I drove to my childhood home. The neighborhood was quiet, no traffic or people in yards. I parked my car and sat for a few minutes, taking in the changes that have been made to the house my dad built in the mid 50s, noting some need for repairs, wondering about the current owners. From there I drove down the street to my elementary school that shares a large parcel of land with a city recreation area. A fence stands now around the kindergarten wing of the school; huge swing sets that were under tall shade trees in the rec area are gone. There’s no evidence of many summers playing games, swinging, or forming a competition of four square on the pavement. I left the area feeling sad.

On familiar streets that took me to Covenant Hospital, I saw many businesses that had closed or became home to different retail offerings. Once grand homes along Michigan Avenue were faded, run down, or boarded up. I couldn’t help but recall the beauty of these homes every time we drove by on our way to a favorite library, church on  Sunday, taking dad to work or picking him up when mother needed the car.

I arrived at the hospital late morning. Willie was non responsive except for occasional moments he opened his eyes. A daughter in law was with him and this was my first time meeting her. More of describing my time with Ursula can come another time.

In short, Willie died on Good Friday. I can’t think of a better time to depart earthly life in exchange for eternity with God. I waited over the Easter weekend to learn of funeral arrangements and when they became known, I was able to leave for northern Michigan the following Wednesday.

“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.” (Proverbs 19: 21)

I don’t know if my original plans for driving north would have given me different experiences or not. This is what I do know, that by surrendering my schedule to God, being open and flexible to accept interruptions along the way of everyday life, I was given precious memories, glorious opportunities to experience embracing  recollections from the past, and in the midst of saying goodbye to a loved one, I found peace, joy, and hope.

I arrived in Saginaw under a blanket of sadness, but when I left to return home, after spending time soaking in old memories and meeting new family members, I came back with a heart full of gratitude.

THERE’S POWER IN THE BLOOD

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Perhaps one of the greatest mysteries I ponder about God is the words of His prophets, those ancient men we read about in the books of the Old Testament, who often gave the Jewish nation a foreshadowing of what was to come. Of particular importance, were the numerous messages–foretellings–of the promised Messiah, the One who would come to save God’s people. Since we are in the season of Lent with Easter Sunday soon approaching, I’m turning to one of my favorite prophets, Isaiah, who ministered to the people of Judah from 740 to 680 BC. 

In Chapter 53 of Isaiah’s book we get a very good description of God’s Son and what He would endure at the end of His earthly life in ministry. Verse 3 says “He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, and familiar with suffering. Like one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him now.” If we compare the written gospel account of Jesus’ last days before being nailed to a cross, this is a good description assuring us that indeed He suffered a lot, therefore, we can rest as our own assurance that He understands our own sorrows and hardships.

Further along in verse 5 we read: But he was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His wounds we are healed.” In the course of Jesus’ arrest and unlawful trial, He was brutally tortured. Stripped naked He was flogged with a whip that literally tore the flesh from His back with every strike. A crown of thorns was placed on His head, the sharp edges breaking open the skin on his scalp, blood dripping down His face. With that level of punishment we are told it brings us peace? How is that possible? Only because HE took the punishment you and I deserve as a penalty for sin.

Under the open gaping wounds of 39 lashes to His back, Jesus’ “stripes” are credited to give us healing. With His body now beaten, torn, dripping with blood, experiencing pain and exhaustion beyond human comprehension, He is facing the final moments of humiliation, pain, and suffering. He will be forced to carry His own cross, parading through public roads, mockers standing along the way, a mob reveling in His death sentence. How dare this “man” claim to be the Son of God and proclaim that He could forgive sins….that man could put Him to death…and declare He’d rise again.

Another prophetic glimpse we get about Jesus’s crucifixion is a very short sentence in Psalm 34: 19-20 “A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all; he protects all his bones, not one of them will be broken”.

It was standard practice by the Romans to break the legs of their victim in order to hasten death. In the case of Jesus, when the soldiers approached Him to do so, He was already deceased, thus fulfilling the prophecy that this common practice would not be necessary. (John 19:33)

The matters of God–especially the lessons we study in the season of Lent leading us to Palm Sunday and Easter–need not be intimidating. Answers to our questions can be found in the entirety of the Bible, all 66 books. 2 Timothy 3: 16 is a clear directive that “all scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness…so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Let us be thankful that God saw it quite fitting to give us numerous Old Testament writings describing His ultimate plan of salvation for all of mankind, the death and resurrection of His one and only son. Yet, as you read, don’t miss those passages that warn about rejecting Christ and the gift of pardon from all sins. Not all who “see and hear” the gospel message will be saved. Salvation requires believing in the One who came to save. 

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A note to my readers: This week’s article will be my last for a while. On April 1 until mid-May I will be enjoying a sabbatical where I am pulling away from all ministry duties. I’ve had some busy months which have caused me to realize I need to retreat, unplug, so that I may rest, find renewal along with what I lovingly call a “fresh fire and a fresh wind”. I look forward to time alone and with loved ones. Hopefully, with God’s inspiration, I’ll have a lot to write about when I return. May you all enjoy the power and beauty that the resurrected Christ gives us as children of God!

FROM FOLLOWER TO DENIAL, TO BECOMING A ROCK

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This past week in the Lenten devotional I’m reading along with a group of others from my church family, we camped out in Matthew Chapter 26 for a good portion of time. As of this writing we’ve all read about Peter denying Jesus three times on the night of His arrest. It won’t become known to us later after Jesus’ death and resurrection, how important Peter will become in advancing the kingdom of God on earth. Much will be written about Peter. Yet, in his evening of denial, he gets a bad rap from believers who don’t know “the rest of the story”.

Questions we ask ourselves is “how could he deny knowing Jesus”? “Didn’t Peter know that Jesus was the messiah? After all, he’d been in ministry with Him all that time!” “How could Peter deny a best friend and teacher?” These and perhaps many more are legitimate questions and I fear that we can find ourselves in their very answers.

I know there are times in my own life that I’ve not represented Jesus very well. How many times do I sit through a movie and not walk out when His name is thrown around like a beach ball. Have I always defended my faith well in the midst of conversations about Christian teachings that leave many confused, myself included. 

The Bible has many confusing or contradictions when perceived with our human mind. For example, I’m currently reading the Bible in chronological order and just finished the book of Judges. There’s a lot of brutality and carnage that took place in the history of the Israelite nation. I honestly don’t comprehend the “why” behind all the warring, but God allowed it. He even commanded it. And with Him it’s always with purpose. To reconcile my confusion I tell myself “well, He created. He has ultimate authority. He gets to call the shots”.

But, back to Peter. I think we are all more like Peter than we care to admit. When faced with unknowns or fear, it’s human nature to self protect. By Peter “staying at a distance”, actually sitting outside the courtyard where the high priest is questioning Jesus, he is close enough to hear all that is taking place. Combined with loyalty and fear, Peter remains as close as his emotions will allow. In the course of the night’s events, Peter “ physically remained” near the trial, yet fear became a driving motive to be “emotionally removed”  from Jesus. 

Peter offers me great hope. I hope he does for you as well. The more I learn about Peter the more I can relate. As a fisherman by trade he would have been strong. He was a servant, evidenced by his willingness to lay down his livelihood and follow Jesus as a disciple. He was married. He was passionate and bold which is shown through later preaching times to crowds coming to hear the “good news”.

I’m glad Peter didn’t end up his ministry in the wrappings of denial when things got hard for him and for Jesus. I’m encouraged that even though he chose a path of temporary cowardness, God used him later to shed light on telling fellow Jews about the resurrected Messiah. 

Peter may be seen by us as a coward. Let us not miss his humanity. Let us not downplay his role in launching a “new” way…The Way as the early church was called. Him being credited as “on this rock (Peter) I (Jesus) will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it”. You see, even before Peter would deny knowing Jesus, he is set apart as someone who will have a key role in creating Jesus’ church–not man’s–God’s!

What can we take away from Peter? Even with his character flaws and failings, God set him apart BEFORE the night’s events of arrest and trial of Jesus. God allowed Peter to be himself, to walk through the coming days and then take his rightful place of confidence and authority to preach the “good news” to all who would listen. And listen they did! The Book of Acts records his first sermon to a crowd and we read about thousands being added daily to the list of all who came to believe in Christ’s death and resurrection.

If God can use an ordinary fisherman turned disciple and preacher, He can use you. The challenge is this, will you follow? Will you share the “good news”, too?

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JESUS KEEPS US CLOSE

This past week my morning scripture readings have come from the book of Matthew. He gives us a good account of all the events leading to the arrest, trial and crucifixion of Christ. In his writings we get a glimpse of a last meal together between Jesus and His disciples, the introduction of a “new covenant” using bread and wine, along with chilling words describing betrayal and denial that will involve all 12 men. For those of us who know the backstory, it’s Judas and Peter who will be singled out as two who fit the description applied to their integrity as faithful followers. 

When entering the Garden of Gethsemane for fervent prayer, I find it interesting that Jesus invited Peter to join Him, along with the sons of Zebedee, James and John who had reputations for being very passionate–actually a couple of hotheads at times. As often as I have read these verses over the years, it was this week that I asked myself “why did He choose these three men to join Him in a time of prayer bathed under great sorrow, trouble, and fear”. Reflecting on my own question I surmised that perhaps Peter needed to witness firsthand the anguish that Jesus felt in the garden, knowing what the coming days would unfold–His betrayal by Judas, the arrest, trial, torture and ultimately death by crucifixion. 

If James and John were indeed deeply passionate about Jesus’ ministry and their role in advancing God’s kingdom on earth, why wouldn’t they be included in prayer that was raw, tearful, and brutally honest pleading for a way to escape impending brutality and death?

Sadly, as we continue reading Matthew’s account of the evening’s prayer time, Jesus is left alone in His anguish, as every one of the disciples fell asleep. Were they bored? Had they said what they could in prayer, feeling depleted and exhausted? Had they given up on the night to wait for morning and a fresh start to a new day?

I think Peter gets a bad wrap for his choices. I would even stretch the blame we put on the disciples as being too judgemental. I think if I’m honest–if you’re honest–we all can relate to Peter and the others in ways that cause us to feel shame, guilt, fear…exercising our need for self preservation when faced with insurmountable odds.

An old testament psalm used in the second week of Lent comes from Chapter 27. Beginning at verse 11 we read: “Teach me your way, Lord; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors. Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes, for false witnesses rise up against me, spouting malicious accusations. I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord”.

As Jewish men, the disciples would have been very familiar with this psalm. For three years they had been taught. They walked Jesus’ path that led to His oppressors. They heard lies spoken about them and that Jesus declared Himself as Messiah. They may not have always seen the goodness of God in daily life and indeed their strength failed and hearts wept from fear and not knowing the painful days ahead for their beloved Master.

Now that we believers have the advantage and beauty of the bible in its entirety, we can read Matthew’s account of their ministry coming to a crossroad. Their lack of comprehension for Jesus’ impending death was not yet clear. With tired minds and bodies they fell asleep. I like to think they were “waiting”. Waiting for an upheaval to Roman oppression. Waiting for Jesus to make His move to set the Jewish community free from Roman rule.

Peter, James and John, had front row positions to Jesus’ anguished prayers. In their failings, they most likely missed the opportunity to minister to their beloved teacher. Even with their faults, Jesus kept them close, allowed them to remain with Him. I visited the Garden of Gethsemane in 2019. It’s not a huge area. It’s very serene with olive trees, flowering shrubs, and rocks along the walking path. Even though nine of the disciples fell asleep a short distance away from Jesus and the other three, they were still fairly “close” which would have given them the ability to see and hear all that occurred. 

What can we glean from this? Even when we are weak, tired, full of fear and our own deep anguish, God is with us. In verse 5 of Psalm we read: “For in the day of trouble He will keep me safe in His dwelling; He will hide me in the shelter of His sacred tent and set me high upon a rock”. 

WHY ASH WEDNESDAY?

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By the time you read this Ash Wednesday will be behind us, however, this important observation in Christian faith is the focus of my thoughts. Taking into consideration the deadline for the paper, I’ve made it my habit to sit down every Wednesday morning to write. So, staying in step with my weekly habit, this week’s article happened to fall on Ash Wednesday which kicks off the lenten season in Christian churches worldwide.

What is Ash Wednesday and why do we set this middle of the week day apart from all others? To understand and get answers to these questions–and more–a quick online search took me to several sites. Because I want a trusted source I was happy to find that biblestudytools.com had an article on the topic. From their site is the following information:

Although Ash Wednesday is rich in Christian symbolism, you won’t actually find it mentioned in the Bible. The tradition developed over time, starting with the Council of Nicea, which established a 40-day fasting period before Easter. There was some debate about when this period should start, but in the fifth century, Pope Gregory officially moved the beginning of Lent from a Sunday to Ash Wednesday. While the holiday itself isn’t directly from Scripture, its core practices—fasting, prayer, and repentance—are deeply biblical.

The heart of Ash Wednesday and Lent is about turning back to God. The 40 days of Lent reflect Jesus’ time in the wilderness, where He fasted and prepared for His ministry. For many Christians, this season is a time of self-reflection, letting go of distractions, and drawing closer to God as they prepare their hearts for Easter, the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection.

I grew up in a Lutheran church where Ash Wednesday and midweek lenten services were part of our worship schedule leading up to Easter. As a child I didn’t fully comprehend the deep spiritual benefits of this particular season in the church. It would be years later, at the age of 25, that I fully embraced the teachings about Jesus’ love for me and His plan of salvation for my life. On Ash Wednesday 1979 I responded to the gospel in the way that brought repentance and delivered grace through forgiveness and the promise of being a new creation in Christ! That decision changed my life and I’ve never looked back. Instead, I’ve lived a beautiful life filled with love, grace, mercy, and hope. 

In the church I attend now, we may not hold a service on Ash Wednesday or midweek ones, but it hasn’t diminished my ability to embrace this time in our church calendar. Due to technology with use of a common Bible app available to smartphone users, I’m part of a group who began reading a lenten devotional together. In the comfort of our homes, with the choice of time to open the daily reading, we are digging into scripture that points us to the ministry of Jesus and with one focus question we have the opportunity to interject ourselves into the story and respond about its impact. If we truly apply truths and promises found in the Bible we will begin to look like people described in 2 Corinthians 3: 18: “And we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are progressively being transformed into His image from (one degree of) glory to (even more) glory, which comes from the Lord (who is) the Spirit”.  (Amplified Version)

The words of that verse are a wonderful goal for every believer. It should be our intention that anytime we attend church to hear a sermon or participate in a study of the Bible, that we leave differently than we arrived. 

Repentance. Forgiveness. New Creation. Transformation. These are keywords to focus on this lenten season. Don’t forget gratitude either. Prior to my salvation in 1979 I had walked away from God for four years. I was choosing to live under my own power and warped standards. Yet, in all that, like the good shepherd who leaves his flock of 100 to go after the one lost lamb, Christ pursued me and brought me back to the fold. What He did for me He will do for you!

WALKS & MUD PIES

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These slightly warmer days in the month of February which serve as ushering in windy March are what I refer to as “inbetweener days”. February has a reputation of giving us a range of temperatures…all the way from frigid to ones that tip  moderate warmth helped along by more sunshine as compared to wintry cloudy days threatening heavy snowfall. As snow begins to melt, creating puddles in drives and dirt roads, snowbanks become dotted with large splotches of mud. The sound of squish-squish is now a familiar sound under my feet as I walk down our driveway to the mailbox or along the road on the shoulder when avoiding traffic.

This past week’s warmer temps allowed me to get outside a bit more compared to January’s extreme cold. Feeling the sun on my face has been wonderful. Going for walks without bundling under several layers has been liberating! Now that I can avoid icy conditions, though, I find it necessary to watch my step on the mud. This gooey mess concocted from water and dirt can be dangerous to a misplaced footstep, resulting in slip sliding away when least expected.

Such was my experience this week. Thankfully, I did not slide to the point of a fall, however, I found myself being very careful testing the “muddies” so-to-speak whenever I moved off the pavement of our road. On one of my walks, I intentionally did not listen to a podcast, music, or an audible book. Instead, I wanted the luxury of being “mindful” of my surroundings. What would I see? Hear? Smell? My senses did not fail me.

As I strolled along I enjoyed bright sunshine on my face and cool air filling my lungs. In tall trees I heard birds singing. The breezes smelled fresh and clean, even though my eyes caught winter’s end with melting snow, dead underbrush exposed above once deep snowbanks, muddy blotches on remaining piles of snow. Though not pristine by any means, I comprehended that there is a “season for everything”, complete with the rough edges of waning winter giving way to  promises of lush springtime growth coming in a mere few weeks. 

All that I took in with my eyes reminded me of our relationship with God. By nature we are all sinners, covered with sin’s dirt, marred by its effects. Yet, when He comes into our lives, those things are removed by His salvation and grace, leaving us white as snow.  “Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson,  they shall be like wool. (Isaiah 1:18)

And if it isn’t enough to have sins washed with such purity, Jesus is also a healer. In the book of John we can read about a time that Jesus healed a blind man by mixing His saliva with dirt, creating a mud pie in His hands which he applied to the man’s eyes. I’m not sure why He chose this method to deliver a healing, but it shows us how He can use ordinary elements of the earth to grant a miracle. Afterall, if God created Adam from the dust of the earth, why can’t Jesus use a mixture of dirt to restore sight? When common meets divine I’m in awe.

Yes, my ordinary walks outside are opportunities for me to observe the world around me. I can look up and see planes streaming across blue skies. I am able to notice roadside areas covered with mud, stones, and dead plants waiting to wake up to spring’s alarm. I can marvel at numerous deer trails winding through wooded areas, their tracks molded in mud next to pavement, leaving behind evidence of their presence in our neighborhood.

My mind, on another walk outside, has had the opportunity to meet with divine, to enjoy present day temps while anticipating the promise of spring in a few weeks. When spring arrives, my eyes will have new things to behold. I’ll be able to smell different aromas in the air. And, most likely I won’t be walking in mud. Unless it rains! Maybe, just maybe, I should have fun making “mud pies”…..

LIVING ROOM SOCIAL MEDIA

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Ah, the blessings and curses that come with social media.

When Facebook surged above all other social media platforms, I joined a myriad of friends and family making use of this communication tool. I quickly connected with friends who live in different geographic locations…families spread out across Michigan and beyond to the west coast … .close friends…highschool classmates…individuals and groups that feed into my personal goals for understanding of scripture and ministry where I serve. The past years belonging to Facebook, and now Instagram along with X, have been heartwarming, intriguing, plus an occasional wringing of hands in frustration.

Reflecting on my experiences with social media, I could not help but remember Sunday afternoon visits with my grandparents. Following a delicious dinner, it never failed that I ran back and forth between the living room from playing outside, my grandpa seated among dad and his brothers, along with brothers-in-law were, discussing current events. My memories are totally foggy and I certainly don’t have recall for those conversations other than to remember they were quite lively, but never critical or mean spirited. Sources of topics were what they heard on the evening news, newspapers, radio, and magazines.

On one such visit, our family was the first to arrive on a Sunday and when we walked in the door my grandpa jumped up excitedly, waving an issue of Time magazine in my dad’s face, declaring “Jack, do you know what them Roo-sians are up to?” “Read this, Jack!” Before dad could react or respond, Gramp told dad word for word what was contained in the article.

Going back to my uncles. Within their career circle were two engineers, a car salesman, a laborer for General Motors, a self employed building contractor,  a minister and a colonel in the United States Air Force. My dad was employed in the building inspection department for the City of Saginaw in the 60s, the years of many family dinners and living room conversations. Grandpa’s working years spanned farming, logging, and in his later years, some small machine work. My Jewell “guys” certainly represented a variety of work skills which included a strong foundation of integrity. 

IF they had strong disagreements when discussing America’s woes in the 60s, it never was evident to me. What I heard and observed was a group of siblings having lively conversations. When I really leaned in to what they were talking about, I was happy to sit and listen when many “yarns” or stories from childhood dominated their lively banter,  many of which were repeated year after year and are now beloved memories from my childhood.

So, social media. As I’ve been a part of my “friendship circle” the posts have often gone from family photos or highlighted vacation moments to discussions of current matters in America. Admittedly, I have joined in all of these topics but having done so has not always been beneficial.

My observations boil down to things for me. One, there’s a lot of courage behind a keyboard evidenced by some very mean spirited posts. Secondly, I’m convinced social media is never going to serve as a beneficial or uplifting platform to discuss “hot topics”. Certainly, I enjoy reading a variety of opinions, while struggling with motives behind “jabs” or “disrespectful” words. Once again, of my own admission, I often got sucked into a “ping pong match of wits” with those who think differently than myself. Not anymore.

I made a conscious decision to keep my social media focused on family photos, special moments we’ve enjoyed as a family, connecting with family and friends, sharing encouragement from “my” source of all that is good–scripture.

My Jewell guys never solved any of America’s problems in the 60s. At most, they accomplished hearing the viewpoints of each other. No one ever left angry or “unfriended” one another. 

Yes, social media is now an outlet that illustrates our human nature ranging in behaviors from elation to anger. Missing is the ability to “hear” a tone of voice behind typed words, or the “heart” behind comments. Missing is the beauty of face-to-face conversations which allow differing angles to meet over closely held passions and stances without resulting in being cut off.

I can’t imagine any of my dad’s sibling relationships being severed due to thinking as an individual. In my grandparents’ small living room, in that small close knit circle of the Jewell men, there was love, acceptance, and always yielding to differing opinions.

I think those of us who use social media could learn a lesson or two from a circle of loving and goofy brothers. Who, when finished bantering away the afternoon, went out to the kitchen for another slab of pie or outside for a rousing game of horseshoes, brothers against brothers in fair play and healthy competition.

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (Ephesians 4: 29) 

LESSONS OUTSIDE MY WINDOW

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Happy anniversary to me!

In what seems like a whirlwind swirling through the past 12 years of my life, I am marking two decades of writing my personal blog, which is now being featured weekly in the ‘News & Views’. I am grateful for personal satisfaction I receive in the expression of written words as well as being given an audience in the paper’s readership. Both experiences have been paths I would not have considered showing up in the landscape of my life.

During these past years, sitting down each week to write, I’ve had numerous “a-ha” topics come to mind, making my task easy to complete. Admittedly, there have been mornings where my thoughts are stuck. I feel dry and empty sitting at my laptop, asking myself “what shall I write about this week?” Some call it writer’s block. Such spells can often be described as a “dry patch”. I have endured both afflictions, yet neither of them has devoured my ability to “pen” something that I feel is worthy of a “job well done”. Most weeks, when I struggle to hone in on a topic worthwhile of writing about, my go-to source has been to ask God…”what would YOU have me write about today, Father. What can I say to encourage someone today or cause them to smile and even provoke a hearty laugh?” Never to my surprise, He has been faithful to answer.

Today, God has been showing me small lessons from the birds who visit our pan of birdseed. We have resorted to using a cake pan to hold the seed, as several bird feeders have been either destroyed or stolen–maybe a crafty racoon? Fortunately, we’ve not lost the pan; it has survived weeks of cold or rainy days.

When the pan is empty, I have observed the numerous birds sitting on the deck railing, waiting for their morning meal. Sometimes they perch in a nearby pine tree and swarm the pan when we fill it. We’ve got our share of sparrows, juncos, morning doves, and blue jays who compete for a “seat the table”. Vying for a turn to feast on the mixture of seeds is our resident squirrel who plops his or her plump body smack dab in the middle of the pan, choosing the sunflower seeds, tossing aside the shells which are now strewed over the deck. We’ve even had a chipmunk or two enjoy a turn dining. Watching them dart back and forth competing with our fine feathered friends is always a source of laughter for me.

When I take time to watch the feeding frenzy our beloved creatures create, I soon realize that in their need to eat, to survive, there’s a bit of competition and chaos. The Blue Jays are the most aggressive; the morning doves seem the most docile. What they lack in aggression, is made up in their own sizable bodies to dominate the seed by sitting on top of it as though perched in a nest. 

Then there are what I refer to as “dive bombers”. These are the fellas who come in from the safety of the neighbor’s shrubs, swooping in to take over our small country buffet. Their fast approach and crash landing antics cause all others to quickly scramble. Until all bellies are full, this is a cycle I’ve seen continue for several hours.

One small baking pan of birdseed may seem insignificant as we do our part to feed the birds who remain with us during Michigan’s cold winter months. Yet, I’m confident even our small efforts are producing great results for all who rely on the pan being on the table for them, filled every morning for their delight.

So, a question to God…what do I write today?…a small pan of birdseed. Small amounts of common birdseed and witnessing the ability to provide for small beautiful creatures provide me with an example of God’s love and faithfulness to me, too.

Sometimes I come to Him in a fast swoop, too. There are mornings I have the gift of leisurely time to “sit in the middle of God’s Word” and feast on His promises. The difference for me in comparison to our little outside creatures is that I do not need to worry about competing for God’s presence or feeling satisfied from His provision.

God is able to meet all needs. He does this for everyone who comes to Him, all who are hungry or thirsty. And He does it every day without slumber or sleep. His riches and glory are never ending. And I like to imagine Him smiling and laughing at me when I come to Him frantically, or waiting with arms out wide to hug me as a child needing comfort and safety.

GOD, THE UNIQUE CREATOR

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Children, babies…their presence among us older folks often bring out the best in us. With gentle cooing to downright hefty belly laughter, I find that these little people bring a unique type of joy and innocence that overshadows any form of negativity in a room.

Admittedly, I’m not one to gravitate to newborns other than a quick glance and word of congratulations to new parents. Yet, when it came to welcoming our own two children, and later our four grandchildren, my appreciation for newborns changed with noticeable measure.

For the past several years, I’ve been serving in children’s ministry at our church. Twice a month I’m in a room full of elementary age children who are ready to shout, sing, and enjoy a Bible teaching through cleverly written videos. I’ve seen kindergarten age kids grow up and leave our group; they’re now part of the middle and high school groups. Being part of their spiritual growth has been a source of great joy and has also given me insight into the unique qualities God places in every person.

Psalm 139: 14 says: “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well”.

I remember the very first time I heard all of Psalm 139. We were attending a benefit for a Christian organization, Concerned Women for America. Our guest speaker for the event was Cal Thomas, renowned veteran columnist and commentator who has written for numerous publications. Mr. Thomas’ speech that evening focused on looming abortion rates in America and the role we as Christians could take to help save innocent lives. Our event was in the mid 1990s when abortion was making frequent headlines, not unlike our present times.

His speech, his use of Psalm 139 helped to reshape some of my opinions regarding a very sensitive topic, most of which I cannot express with adequate words in a short article. But it was the Psalm itself which burned remaining truths in my mind and heart that every life, every person, is indeed precious to God, created in His image, and with great purpose He is the author and the one who creates the uniqueness we see in everyone we meet.

In my large group of children at church there are the loud noisy ones. Sitting with them on a bench are the more shy, the “let me merely sit here and not be noticed” ones. During worship time I’ll see lively kids jumping up and down, doing all the motions that go with each song. Another glance around the room reveals those kids who are happy to stand, hands at their sides, expressionless faces, you know, the ones who “I may be standing but I’m sitting on the inside; you can’t MAKE me sing even though I want to but I’m way too cool…”

There are girls decked out in party dresses, some are wearing their comfy leggings. Boys come wearing hoodies, a couple don a button down shirt, maybe one or two will sport a tie. Our kids come in all shapes and sizes, every color of hair and eyes–some need glasses, some need a pair of headsets due to the noise level. Most of them are wiggly squiggly giggly human machines. I love that!

I love that no two people are the same. Even identical twins do not have the same DNA nor do they have the same fingerprint configuration. Though our human eye may not be able to quickly differentiate between a set of twins, by God’s design they are unique individuals.

I encourage you to read the entirety of Psalm 139 this week. Take hold of David’s words as you discover the power behind God’s creation of every person. Marvel in knowing that God knit you together, He knows you and He sees you. You are precious to Him. 

Now, I can honestly admit I love being around small children. Their joy is infectious and their antics bring laughter to my spirit. Their love and ability to embrace Jesus and Who He is a beautiful thing to see on a Sunday morning. We’ve got several little girls who will do cartwheels during worship. We’ve got girls who sit on a bench holding hands like best friends do…we’ve got boys who are excited to show off their dance moves when we sing “Church Clap”. We’ve got kids who will ask if they can be the one to say a prayer at the end of our time together.

Jesus’ own words offer us a beautiful admonition: “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these”. (Matthew 19)

I can declare with confidence that children matter to Jesus. Therefore, they can and should hold great significance to us, too.

So, if you need a healthy dose of joy, a measure of hope, an example of innocent jubilation for a beautiful savior, get yourself around some kids at church. And when the music starts, join in for some wild and crazy worship!