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WATER IS “LIFE”

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“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.”  (Matthew 5: 44-45)

Today’s gentle morning rain has evoked many wandering thoughts, even memories from childhood. In the midst of top headlines regarding flood waters in Texas, I pondered  the extremes that rain can cause in our world. Case in point–consider the days of Noah. This remarkable story in biblical history has been the topic of many sermons and even made its way into movie studios.

For anyone that knows me, there’s no doubt  my heart is not breaking for all the families who have lost loved ones in the Texas flood. I cannot imagine. As a mom, and now a grandmother to four young children, if I overthink the situation and insert our own loved ones into the headlines, well, let’s just say “there would be no words to describe my pain”.

I found this simple quote online. “Water is life”. It also can cause devastation.  It ties in to the verse I’ve used to open this blog entry. God’s creativity in a gentle rain as well as forces contained in waterfalls, flood waters, tidal waves, etc. are part of our world.  Choosing to be outside in a gentle rain causes no discomfort other than getting damp clothes. Being in the path of raging flood waters is an entirely different experience. 

In 1986, living in Saginaw, our area experienced unusual rainfall for several days that caused the Saginaw River to crest. Other small rivers in surrounding counties also overflowed their banks. Many homes and businesses were under threat. Emergency crews worked tirelessly building walls with sandbags to hold back the water. My husband and I joined forces with his employer at the time–Domino’s Pizza–to deliver pizzas to the workers. Accompanying us was a Saginaw Police officer who was assigned to the city’s schools as a liaison. In the midst of this tragedy, we did our part to ease some burdens.

Our own residence saw at least 12 inches of water in the basement. A branch of the bank that employed me suffered extreme damage from flood waters created by the Cass River. Water levels tall enough to cover the cash vault and safe deposit boxes were record highs.  Numerous homes in my county experienced basements that cracked and caved in due to water pressure. Crops near floodplains were destroyed. In short, our area was a mess, further indicated by the amount of household trash that started appearing on curbsides for garbage pickup. Warnings to junk scavengers were published as a way to protect folks from dangers of bacteria.

When tragedy strikes under forces created by water, it’s difficult to understand Jesus’ words that rain “falls on the just and the unjust”. Simply understood, a rainy day can either be one of gratitude or a reason to grumble. The farmer whose fields are parched is thankful for nature’s thirst quenching for dry crops. Vacationers looking to enjoy sunning tired bodies under a hot sun at a beach groan with disappointment when an umbrella replaces sunscreen.

This week I’ve heard some pretty miraculous stories of survival in the Texas flood. I cannot ignore or discount the equally heartbreaking ones about death, especially for many children. I’ve also heard accusations and blame being cast on public officials regarding how quickly the floodwaters were produced by the heavy rainfall, as if ANY one man could have restrained the water.  All the blame and accustations made me very sad.

In the account of Noah building the ark, God actually allowed him to preach repentance to the people living in very dark sin. It took Noah approximately 120 years to build the ark, therefore, in those years Noah’s community was warned, given ample time to repent. I don’t know what God would have done if indeed many would have turned from evil…with every blow of Noah’s crude hammers and tools, sermons and warnings weren’t enough to hold back God’s anger and eventual flood waters that wiped out all living things on earth, saving only eight people and a bunch of animals. 

Yes, water IS life. But it is also a force to be reckoned with in God’s creation. When tragedies come, innocent lives will be taken. I read a social media post where the person wrote “why did God kill those children in Texas?” to which my answer is “He didn’t”. Since the original sin of Adam and Eve, we live in a fallen world. After Noah’s flood, our world changed again. We live under the “laws of creation” and “the laws of man”. 

The Bible speaks about times that will come…famines, earthquakes, rumors of war…it also tells us that no one knows the time or hour that Jesus will return. Scripture doesn’t leave us without warning or protection, though. Our response is to be ready. That readiness isn’t an escape route; it comes by having a relationship with Him. 

I grieve with those who are grieving in Texas. I rejoice with those who are joyous and thankful for spared lives. And, in my despair, I remain connected to the truth that “God’s thoughts and His ways” are above mine.

Unfortunately, future tragedies will be coming to our world. Will you be ready? Jesus said “He is the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” That’s what I call an escape plan from any harshness the world throws at us.

I found a simple quote online that merely says “water is life”. I also verified that an average human can only survive about 3-5 days without water. In contrast, a person “may” survive without food for one to two months. That’s quite a difference. 

TRUE FREEDOM

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Freedom.

Sitting here, my thoughts about the concept of “freedom” are racing in many directions, kind of like when a canister of beads is spilled out on a floor, tiny balls of color scrambling and rolling in every direction!

Further contemplation allowed me to reign in those scrambled thoughts and narrow down definitions of “freedom” to two important tenants 1) the kind of freedom I have living in America and 2) the benefits of freedom living as a Christ follower.

Coming off last week’s celebration of July 4th was cause for yet another year reflecting on past memories that surround this important holiday in our nation. Growing up in Saginaw, we were fortunate to enjoy a fireworks display at one of the city’s largest recreation areas, Hoyt Park. Dad always made sure we left in plenty of time to find a parking spot. Mom put together blankets to sit on and wrap around us if the air chilled. Mosquito spray was carefully packed in a bag of snacks she assembled. We joined countless families on the park’s hill, anxiously waiting for the dark of night to become the backdrop for the beautiful designs each explosion created. Those that came with a loud boom always caused me to cover my ears and find safety in the arms of my dad. Early childhood years weren’t filled with completely  understanding the “freedom” we Americans were celebrating; those lessons came along later as I advanced through school when classes on our country’s history were introduced, studied, and tested upon. Now that I understand the sacrifices and great risks our founding fathers–and those who served in the military–gave, I’m truly humbled and grateful.

However, there is another “freedom” for which I cannot find adequate words to express my appreciation. That’s the quality of life that I have every day as a Christ follower.  When I think about how different my life could have gone, had I not made some difficult decisions in my early 20s, changes of lifestyle, etc. I dare say I’d not be the person I am today. Christ’s sacrifice for the gift of salvation in my messed up life is one I may never fully comprehend, yet in simplicity I understand and accept the work of the Cross and its implications for living a life of freedom in my identity in Him and not the trappings the world offers.

In one of my favorite teachings from the ministry “Walking the Text”, I heard an explanation that expanded why the Apostle Paul wrote about men removing their hats when entering churches of his day. For years–and with no argument from me–doing so indicated respect and humility before God. Fast forward and we witness many church goers openly criticizing men for wearing hats in church. It took listening to Brad’s teaching about “hats in church” that corrected those criticisms. . Brad taught me that in Roman’s culture, which included owning slaves, when an indentured servant gained his freedom, he was given a blue hat to wear in public indicating he was “free”. If that freed man was a Christian and walked into his church, his hat was an obvious marker of his status under Roman rule. Paul used the hat’s purpose to teach that though a person could be “free” from a life of slavery in a Roman household, there was “greater” freedom as a Christ follower, thus removing the hat showed others the rightful authority and granter of true “freedom”. I love that! What a difference it makes when bad or false teachings are taught in a way to present truth that highlights historical and spiritual significance.

Galatians 5: 1 is a perfect definition for freedom–: “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery”. 

Explosions of beautiful fireworks are behind us for another year. Trappings of the day have been put away. Celebrations focused on our country’s bountiful “freedoms” are most likely shelved, too, which causes a bit of sadness in me. In our ever changing world, being aware of increased tension and persecution of innocent lives, I don’t want to lose my respect and humility for the privilege of living in America. Above all, being a Christ follower for over 40 years is still one that requires daily surrender and sacrifice on my part as an effort to honor the One who gave His life for me.

Just as a child who had to learn in school about my American history, with equal importance is my study and discipleship in Christ. Both have value. Both teach about freedom. Both can be threatened. Only one can endure no matter the pressures the world tries to enforce. For that, I raise a hallelujah!

DON’T LET SIZE FOOL YOU

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I am a self admitting proscranitor along with inconsistency regarding exercise goals. My determination ebbs and flows like ocean tides that instinctively sync with our moon. I’d be ecstatic if my desire to walk outside was tied to a natural phenomena in God’s creation, but hope and wish all I want, the fact remains that I am in charge of my choices regarding exercise.

Before sitting down to write this week I laced up my reliable shoes and got outside on the paved road that loops in a “U” shape through a neighborhood that was built up with homes in recent years. Their road makes a very nice safe place to walk, even run, without danger of speeding cars. As much as I enjoy what my neighborhood offers in safety, I found that I’m not the only one benefiting from the road’s mostly smooth surface between well groomed lawns. Catching my eye as I strolled along were numerous small anthills between the road’s edge and multiple lawns. 

I knew we had gotten rain throughout the night as the ground was still wet under humid conditions. Collected dirt and lawn clippings swept along the road like a river were now flat and damp, displaying an appearance of a dried up river bed. Their bronzy hues made a perfect setting for the anthills that are standing small though erect with no apparant damage to carefully laid granules of dirt to create small pyramid shaped homes. I was curious about how these little creatures build the entrances to their tunnel homes. This is what I found: Ants are a superorganism. They have division of labor, use collective problem solving techniques. The nest is one of architecture with a variety of materials, use of soil mechanics, has built in defenses and includes drainage systems. The mound we see on surfaces is the entrance. Underground lies intricate tunnel systems.

In summary, the strength of an anthill lies not just in its physical structure but also in the collective power, sophisticated organization, and adaptable nature of the ant colony within it. (Source AI overview)

I’ve always thought watching ants at work is a fascinating pastime, especially when I was a kid sitting under a shade tree in our front yard. All these years later, now, in adulthood they still intrigue me. Naturally, I know that ants are even mentioned in scripture where in Proverbs 6: 6-9 we humans are admonished to “Go the ant, O lazy one; observe her ways and be wise, which, having no chief, overseer or ruler, she prepares her food in the summer and brings in her provisions (of food for the winter) in the harvest.” (Amplified Version

Ouch! To be thought of as lazy compared to a tiny ant. To be instructed that these little guys accomplish a lot of hard work without need of a supervisor! Lots of lessons to be learned, a lot of humble pie to eat comparing human nature to that of a small insect. How like God, though, to use anything in His creation in an attempt to impart wisdom to mankind.

In addition to my fascination with ants, I must also confess that I’m not overly happy when they make their way into our home. In past years, we’ve had our share of intruders, always in the same spot along a kitchen window over our sink. By using homemade remedies and careful re-caulking around obvious entry points I was thrilled we didn’t have our annual visitors scurrying across dirty dishes or on the floor in search of a crumb. As useful as ants are to our ecosystem, I have always drawn the line at them sharing living space with us. As long as they stay outside, I will not bother them. I make every attempt not to flatten the entrance mounds to their underground homes. I don’t wash them away with a garden hose or spray strong insecticides in the lushness of our lawn.

I’ll continue to be delighted by ants–as long as they stay put in their natural habitats –and remain humbled that God considers them to “be exceedingly wise”. (Proverbs 30: 24) Certainly you and I can learn a lot from these problem solving hard workers. If it wasn’t so, I dare say God would not have mentioned them in His written Word.

MORNING NOURISHMENT, SMALL GIFTS FROM HEAVEN

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“From the dew of heaven and the richness of the earth, may God always give you abundant harvests of grain and bountiful new wine. (Genesis 27: 28 New Living Translation)

Much to my delight, one morning  last week offered me perfect conditions to enjoy sitting on our deck in the early hours of my day. With my second mug of coffee, my Bible and journal in hand, I made my way to a comfortable deck chair to sit in the sunshine and also enjoy a gentle breeze on my body. But, before I could begin my little “retreat”, I needed to wipe my chair dry from  morning’s dew. Funny how a mere amount of water on a chair can create an uncomfortable feeling or harm the pages of my journal if I should choose to set it down momentarily.

I’ve always enjoyed a slow quiet start to my day. Even in the years I had to be awake and up for school, I preferred to wake on my own, never to an alarm or my mother’s urgent voice coaxing me from the comfort of warm blankets. Now, I still find great inner peace inside the confines of quiet that our yard offers as I greet a new day with happy anticipation for what it will offer, the tasks I want to accomplish, books to read, music to fill the house–all part of who I am and what brings me joy.

So, as I sat drinking my coffee, journal in my lap, I slowly became engaged with my surroundings, observing with my eyes and ears all the activity of the morning. Soon I realized I was a disturbance to several birds and one chipmunk who wanted to feed at the seed we provide every day. They came close but quickly exited when seeing me. A blue jay landed on the clothes line pole to check out the situation. A sparrow flew in like a bomber plane and with great skill made a hasty escape when spying me. Off in the distance I could hear birds of several kinds singing as well as crickets or other insects joining in the chorus. I felt the irony of my inner peace being invaded by nature’s choir and thought to myself “who’s invading who’s world? Am I inserting myself into nature’s habitat or are these little creatures interrupting my space?”

As I enjoyed all the songs, my mind returned to dealing with morning dew on my chair. A couple questions formed from my curiosity and I found myself writing them in my journal. “What is the source of dew?” “What purpose does dew serve?” I vowed I would look for answers to both questions. A quick search online provided me fast simple answers. Dew is formed when water in the air condenses on plant leaves during cool nights. Why? It helps plants accelerate their metabolism, improves soil moisture conditions, and helps plants survive in drought conditions. (source Shuncy.com)

Dew’s temporary blanket of moisture on every surface–living or inanimate–serves as beneficial or a slight nuisance. As quickly as it may form, several hours under the heat of the day causes it to dry up, disappear, forgotten about until the next morning when the cycle will repeat. Its repetition reminds me of a favorite portion of scripture from the Bible: “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.” (Lamentations 3: 22-24)

Morning dew has the capacity to quench an arid plant and nourish the very soil around it. So it is with God’s great love for you and me. From the beginning of time itself, our sun has risen every day. Birds and other creatures have announced the arrival of a new day with their heavenly chorus and whether they have inserted themselves into our habitat or the other way around, it does not matter. What is important is remembering and embracing that the Lord is “our portion”…..no matter our current circumstances we “can wait for Him”….and simply find rest, inner peace, and above all, incredible benefits of daily provision from our heavenly Father.

“Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting  shadow.”(James 1: 17)

THE POWER BEHIND ONE PRAYER

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Never underestimate the limitless power of God. This concept was born early in my relationship with Him over 40 years ago. Time and time again, His promises and work in my life have shown up in big and small ways, confirming the truth of who He is for me and for countless times in circumstances surrounding family and friends. Often, as a believer, I almost expect my timing to be honored by God, but on the contrary, it’s always in His schedule that “things” happen or manifest. When they do, I stand amazed.

I have a very dear cousin, Judy, who is a few years older than me. She graduated college as an educator and spent her teaching career in a very small community in northern Michigan. Before retiring, she served as a building principal. Young children and teens have always been part of her life; she has a deep abiding love and passion to see that the kids in her life know about the love of Christ. Therefore, in addition to teaching and living her Christian faith by example, she has served on staff for a teen center which is located in Kalkaska. While on sabbatical, I had the privilege of attending the dedication for the center’s renovated building which is beautiful now, but wasn’t always so. Here’s the backstory.

Over 20 years ago one woman in Kalkaska had a burden for the teens in her small city and surrounding rural townships. She began praying that “someone” or “somehow” a place for teens to come hear the gospel, have fun doing so, would be established. Her answer to prayer came about 10 years ago when a ministry took hold of that vision. Created under the auspices of Crossroads Farm is “The Lanes”, located in Kalkaska. An empty run down bowling alley was up for auction. The ministry team which had been serving teens during these 10 years didn’t have funds to place an auction bid to secure the building’s purchase, but God used a local businessman to step up and buy the facility. In turn, he put the bowling alley in the hands of the ministry. Over many months, volunteers in the community gutted the building, rebuilt and painted walls for offices and meeting rooms, and a group of men refurbished the bowling equipment and resurfaced the lanes. Several pool tables occupy space outside the large meeting room along with a concession counter for snacks and beverages. 

“The Lanes” is currently seeing about 80 teens come on Sunday nights for a safe place to hang out with friends and adult volunteers. There’s a bus driver who begins a 4 pm route in the afternoon, traveling to five townships to pick up kids who want to attend “The Lanes”. These are kids who live in some very extreme circumstances. Unfortunately, rural communities are under threats from drugs, homelessness, lack of hope, etc. 

As I sat in the large meeting room with other guests who came to dedicate the facility, it struck me that most of the men and women in the room were gray haired. Very few “younger” adults filled the chairs. Lingering in my thoughts, my “aha” moment was this–it’s we who are now older, retired, still with many years ahead of us–who have the time–and money–to invest in the needs of today’s youth.

I met people who had gutted rooms, the guys who repaired bowling pin racks, men who come to play popular Christian songs using musical talents on guitars and drums. As I smiled, sitting in reverent awe, I heard a voice in my  head that a family friend shared with me years ago….”nowhere in the Bible does it way we get to retire from doing God’s work”.

Moses was 80 when God sent him to Egypt to get His people from slavery under the pharaoh. It took Noah over 100 years to build an ark. Paul was well into adulthood when Jesus met him on the road to Damascus to confront his zealous ways towards Christ followers and convert him into one of the greatest messengers for the gospel! 

That Saturday evening in April will remain a special memory for me. I witnessed one woman’s lone prayer from years ago become a living and vital reality for many teens within range of “The Lanes” influence. Hearing how successful business people from all Christian denominations come together to create a space for teens humbled my troubled thoughts that sometimes I fear that our communities don’t care enough about others to deliver answers for difficult problems that come along in life, especially for our youth.

If having “The Lanes” isn’t wonderful already, Crossroad Farm has plans to establish similar meeting places around our nation, all in rural settings because that’s where their vision lies–to cast hope into the lives of young people who may otherwise slip under the radar of being ignored, not having someone mentor them, and above all, missing the opportunity to hear that Jesus loves them, that each life has a plan and purpose, and people–gray haired and all–are here to help, teach, and love.

Now, when I see empty buildings, vacant storefronts, I say “hmmmmm….” “What if?”

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WHAT’S NEXT?

Congratulations to all of our students who have completed high school and younger students who are moving from one lower grade to another! Educational years are very exciting and hopefully your children and grandchildren are embracing the opportunities placed in classrooms, labs, gymnasiums, athletic fields, and field trips to enhance their learning experiences.

With the advent and final availability of social media, it’s been enjoyable to see photos of my family and friends highlighting the “last day of school”. Looking at happy faces, reading brief comments about “growth”, reminded me of my own years spent in education. Beginning with kindergarten, I struggled attending school. After the first day, I truly thought I was finished. That second morning that mother woke me I actually told her I wasn’t going, that I had already gone. I guess in my infantile mind I saw that “first day” as something to conquer and consider it as “done”.

Yet, with the passing of each grade, learning to read, struggling with math, having science answer my curiosity about things, art projects that allowed me to be creative…school began to be great, fun as I made new friends, especially in junior high when I had more than one teacher, all of whom prepared me for my final years in high school where I discovered vocal music and journalism when I joined the yearbook staff.

Looking back, life was pretty easy from kindergarten to twelfth grade. I wasn’t at the top of my class by any means, but being in the above average group gave me a lot of confidence and good preparation for “life after graduation”. My only true struggle was answering the all familiar question we ask our graduates–”what’s next?”

Honestly, as I sat in my commencement on a hot Sunday afternoon in June of 1971, I didn’t know the answer to that question. My parents were wonderful supporters and providers for all my needs, but we never had conversations about my future plans beyond high school. Many of my classmates headed to colleges, others joined the military, and numerous guys went directly to one of three automobile related plants in Saginaw. I woke up the morning after commencement and felt very empty. What now?

Thankfully, my best friend had an idea what she wanted to do–attend a local business school. She asked me to go with her and after a lot of convincing on my part with my dad, he agreed to pay the tuition for my nine month course of study, which doesn’t seem like a lot but I learned basic skills needed in order to work in the clerical field. When I completed my studies there–Saginaw Business Institute–I was fortunate to secure a position with First State Bank of Saginaw and my young adult life was launched!

Today, I ask myself if I would change anything about my decisions made post high school. Certainly, there are some things I would consider as a “do over”. I would have worked harder academically. I would have attempted to crush proscrastionation’s effects it takes in life. I would have learned why “people pleasing” can lead to merely going “along with the crowd” rather than finding confidence in God’s truths on a variety of issues one faces when growing and maturing.

Yes, I love seeing all our youth in their graduation photos. And I enjoy hearing about future plans–whether it will be college locally or off somewhere far from home. I hope, too, that our young men and women will discover and investigate the value of learning a trade….taking time to fall in love and marry a good person who shares values and ethics of life. I also hope our young folks will value serving others in the community where they settle. As one who struggled a bit in school and life, I’d encourage our young graduates to continue pursuing knowledge, understanding, wisdom … .by traveling to places…meeting people from another culture…creating friendships with young and old alike.  No matter the age, we all have life experiences and stories that are sometimes more exciting than textbooks or other media sources!

So now, the “next” morning after commencement for our graduates has come and gone. “What’s next?” For those of us who have already lived through that question when we were 17 or 18, let’s help our youngsters find their answer by coming alongside them as continuing teachers and mentors!

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds… (Hebrews 10: 24) 

HOW HIGH CAN YOU COUNT?

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Blades of grass. Rocks along a shoreline. Trees in all the forests. Particles of sand. Salt granules in a shaker jar. Strands of hair. Dust mites on my table.

What do these have in common? They are easy and beautiful to see (except for dust…smile) yet challenge the ability to count each one individually to arrive at a specific summary answer. My mind is boggled at how much of Creation remains a mystery. Even a quick online search to ask the question “does science know how many stars are in the Milky Way?” revealed that at best guess, there are over 100 billion stars in this galaxy alone. By broadening the question to include “how many galaxies exist?” The answer is an approximate range of 100 and 200 billion. Are you feeling very very small right now?

Why am I thinking about created things that cannot be counted with mere human mathematical ability? Quite honestly, my observations came as I drove north to Torch Lake for my four days alone during my sabbatical. Along Highway 127 I drove through wooded areas, land covered by a variety of trees such as pines and birch. As I glanced left to right I didn’t see houses or other signs of human habitation, only trees for as far as my eyes could observe.

Then, standing on the lakeshore of the home where I stayed, taking in the sizes and beauty of rocks visible under the water’s edge, I realized there’s no way someone could count or determine the exact number of rocks in Michigan’s deepest inland lake. If that’s not enough to comprehend, think of how many lakes Michigan has with MORE rocks, more sand. If your mind isn’t boggled by now, well, perhaps you don’t think like I do and that’s okay.

Why am I talking about things we cannot count? Why do I even care? My response is this … .even though there are things that exist in the beauty of our world, those things like rocks, sand, trees, hair, eluding the capability to be given an exact count, there is one thing that can be calculated within a fairly accurate conclusion. It’s the number of people living on our planet, all created as individuals with separate DNA, making each one of us unique and pretty darn special. There is only one you. Let it soak a little. Maybe lay the paper down on your lap for a moment as you’re reading my words and let me say it again please. There is only one you.

The Word of God gives us some pretty neat clues how God sees you, includes you, and how He values you. Let’s consider:

Psalm 139: 17-18 “How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand..”

Luke 12: 7 “Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows”.

Psalm 147: 4 “He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name.”

Are you feeling small yet? Don’t.

With complete confidence, let me exclaim to you that you were created by an incredible, powerful, amazing God, that though we may not appear as a speck in our galaxy, He deeply loves us. In the vastness of humankind, you are not lost to Him. He sees you. He knows you. He loves you. You are counted as precious in His sight. “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints” (Psalm 116: 15) which basically means that when a believer dies, he or she is welcomed by God. He cares deeply for those who love Him.

In conclusion, here’s a challenge for you to consider embracing. Find a comfortable spot on a grassy lawn and allow your eyes to  take in the blades of grass that make up its beauty. Stroll along a sandy shore, your hair blowing in a gentle breeze. On a dark clear night, stand outside and gaze on the stars–remember they have names! Look in the mirror and truly realize that you are you, you are unique. If you ask me? That’s pretty darn amazing and a kind of special I cannot describe.

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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!