M.C. Kelly's Blog, page 3
December 15, 2020
Wait and See
We live in a world of hurry. Instant gratification. We get impatient waiting for a two minute traffic light to change, or for our fast food. We send instant emails or texts instead of sending a hand written letter. Same day delivery is an option with some vendors, while others provide your package within two days. I ordered a charger for my phone last Friday and it arrived the next day. That’s crazy fast. We want what we want, and we want it right now.
The best news the world could ever hear was revealed to prophets long before it took place. Did those who had heard these promises get tired of waiting? Were they paying attention in the first place? The scriptures were read when they went to worship. Were their minds crowded with other thoughts? Like maybe what they were having for lunch afterwards? How could the advent of the promised Messiah be missed by so many people? We are not much different so don’t go criticizing.
The promise was first given in the garden of Eden, around 1,500 years before Jesus was born. Genesis 3:15 foretold the birth of Christ when God told the serpent that even though he would hurt the heel of the One to come, his own head would be crushed. A promise of victory over the sin and death that had slithered into Adam and Eve’s lives. And ours.
And John the Baptist pointed Him out. “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!’” (John 1:29) I’m grateful for those in my life who have pointed me to Christ.
We wait now for Him to return. How long will we have to wait? I don’t know, but I’m pretty sure it could be any time. Channel surfing the other day I stopped on a program that was telling me that instant travel (“beam me up” stuff”) was just within our reach. I guess when the church is raptured, the world will say we just all went to live somewhere else. Which will actually be true, but not in the way they might think ;)
In the meantime, the darkness we feel is real and it’s strong. The world is full of hate and evil. But believer, be thankful that God “has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.” (Colossians 1:12) Hold fast to the Word of God and it’s instructions to us as we wait.
Written about 700 years before the birth of Christ, Isaiah 9:2 tells us: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.” True believers in the past waited for the Light. Simeon rejoiced to see the Savior he had longed for. In Luke 2:32 he called the Child “a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.”
1 John 2:8 tells us that “…the darkness is passing and the true light is already shining.” Do you know this One born in a lowly manger so long ago? The One whose birth was announced by prophets and a brilliant star? I pray the Light would shine on your heart this Christmas season and that you might truly know the Messiah. He's not a baby anymore.
The best news the world could ever hear was revealed to prophets long before it took place. Did those who had heard these promises get tired of waiting? Were they paying attention in the first place? The scriptures were read when they went to worship. Were their minds crowded with other thoughts? Like maybe what they were having for lunch afterwards? How could the advent of the promised Messiah be missed by so many people? We are not much different so don’t go criticizing.
The promise was first given in the garden of Eden, around 1,500 years before Jesus was born. Genesis 3:15 foretold the birth of Christ when God told the serpent that even though he would hurt the heel of the One to come, his own head would be crushed. A promise of victory over the sin and death that had slithered into Adam and Eve’s lives. And ours.
And John the Baptist pointed Him out. “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!’” (John 1:29) I’m grateful for those in my life who have pointed me to Christ.
We wait now for Him to return. How long will we have to wait? I don’t know, but I’m pretty sure it could be any time. Channel surfing the other day I stopped on a program that was telling me that instant travel (“beam me up” stuff”) was just within our reach. I guess when the church is raptured, the world will say we just all went to live somewhere else. Which will actually be true, but not in the way they might think ;)
In the meantime, the darkness we feel is real and it’s strong. The world is full of hate and evil. But believer, be thankful that God “has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light.” (Colossians 1:12) Hold fast to the Word of God and it’s instructions to us as we wait.
Written about 700 years before the birth of Christ, Isaiah 9:2 tells us: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.” True believers in the past waited for the Light. Simeon rejoiced to see the Savior he had longed for. In Luke 2:32 he called the Child “a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.”
1 John 2:8 tells us that “…the darkness is passing and the true light is already shining.” Do you know this One born in a lowly manger so long ago? The One whose birth was announced by prophets and a brilliant star? I pray the Light would shine on your heart this Christmas season and that you might truly know the Messiah. He's not a baby anymore.
November 6, 2020
Hiding Place
Where do you go when you want to hide? Maybe not physically, but mentally. When times are tough, the future uncertain and you are afraid? Is the situation you face out of your hands? Are you anxious about anything?
Before my recent surgery I found myself in need of a hiding place. Waiting in pre op alone was unnerving to me. Waiting was unnerving. I tried to close myself off from all the hustle and bustle around me. Instead of focusing on what was about to happen, I tried to remind myself that my God was well aware of my needs and supplying them. Even when I couldn't see that. I am blessed to have had family and friends praying for me, but my trust had to be purposefully and repeatedly placed on Him, because multiple times I began to worry.
When I take my cat boys to the vet, it takes great effort to get them in their carrier. However, when we get there, it takes just as much effort to get them out! They keep their heads low and tails tucked. I get it. That's pretty much the way I felt in pre op. I did my best to pray, be thankful and trust.
Pray: Corrie Ten Boom wrote, “The wonderful thing about praying is that you leave a world of not being able to do something, and enter God’s realm where everything is possible. He specializes in the impossible. Nothing is too great for His almighty power. Nothing is too small for His love.” Bring your burdens and cares to Him.
Be thankful: C. S. Lewis wrote, “I have learned to kiss the wave that pushes me against the Rock of Ages.” Learn to be grateful for situations that bring us to our knees and allow us to refocus our hearts on what truly matters.
Trust: Francis J. Crosby wrote, “He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock, that shadows a dry, thirsty land; He hideth my life in the depths of His love, and covers me there with His hand.” Birds often find rest and peace from their pursuers in the crags of rock cliffs. We can do the same when we call on our heavenly Father.
We know from the Psalms that refuge from enemies and trouble were often sought. “You are my hiding place; You preserve me from trouble; You surround me with songs of deliverance.” Psalm 32:7 “For in the day of trouble He will conceal me in His tabernacle; In the secret place of His tent He will hide me; He will lift me up on a rock.” Psalm 27:5
Corrie Ten Boom said, “In order to realize the worth of the anchor we need to feel the stress of the storm.” Are you feeling the gale force of financial or health woes? The pounding rain of a broken heart? The icy conditions of loneliness? Jesus is the Anchor that will hold you steady through every season and inclement time of your life.
Are you in a holding pattern? Waiting for a test result? Waiting to see if things will work out like you hope? Waiting is hard. Especially when we can't see around the corner. Are you leaning into Christ in your desperate times? Put your faith in the only One who is trustworthy. Again, Corrie Ten Boom says, “never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.”
Trust all results to Him. When you belong to the Mighty King of the Universe, I can assure you that no matter how it looks, He is working all things out for your good. Tuck yourself underneath His wings. Tie yourself to His Anchor. He's got this.
Before my recent surgery I found myself in need of a hiding place. Waiting in pre op alone was unnerving to me. Waiting was unnerving. I tried to close myself off from all the hustle and bustle around me. Instead of focusing on what was about to happen, I tried to remind myself that my God was well aware of my needs and supplying them. Even when I couldn't see that. I am blessed to have had family and friends praying for me, but my trust had to be purposefully and repeatedly placed on Him, because multiple times I began to worry.
When I take my cat boys to the vet, it takes great effort to get them in their carrier. However, when we get there, it takes just as much effort to get them out! They keep their heads low and tails tucked. I get it. That's pretty much the way I felt in pre op. I did my best to pray, be thankful and trust.
Pray: Corrie Ten Boom wrote, “The wonderful thing about praying is that you leave a world of not being able to do something, and enter God’s realm where everything is possible. He specializes in the impossible. Nothing is too great for His almighty power. Nothing is too small for His love.” Bring your burdens and cares to Him.
Be thankful: C. S. Lewis wrote, “I have learned to kiss the wave that pushes me against the Rock of Ages.” Learn to be grateful for situations that bring us to our knees and allow us to refocus our hearts on what truly matters.
Trust: Francis J. Crosby wrote, “He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock, that shadows a dry, thirsty land; He hideth my life in the depths of His love, and covers me there with His hand.” Birds often find rest and peace from their pursuers in the crags of rock cliffs. We can do the same when we call on our heavenly Father.
We know from the Psalms that refuge from enemies and trouble were often sought. “You are my hiding place; You preserve me from trouble; You surround me with songs of deliverance.” Psalm 32:7 “For in the day of trouble He will conceal me in His tabernacle; In the secret place of His tent He will hide me; He will lift me up on a rock.” Psalm 27:5
Corrie Ten Boom said, “In order to realize the worth of the anchor we need to feel the stress of the storm.” Are you feeling the gale force of financial or health woes? The pounding rain of a broken heart? The icy conditions of loneliness? Jesus is the Anchor that will hold you steady through every season and inclement time of your life.
Are you in a holding pattern? Waiting for a test result? Waiting to see if things will work out like you hope? Waiting is hard. Especially when we can't see around the corner. Are you leaning into Christ in your desperate times? Put your faith in the only One who is trustworthy. Again, Corrie Ten Boom says, “never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.”
Trust all results to Him. When you belong to the Mighty King of the Universe, I can assure you that no matter how it looks, He is working all things out for your good. Tuck yourself underneath His wings. Tie yourself to His Anchor. He's got this.
October 8, 2020
A Healthy Heart
A few months ago I switched up lemon juice in my water for a low calorie flavor. Seems I was using way too much lemon juice and it was bothering my stomach. It took me a while to realize that while my stomach felt better, my heart had taken to doing cartwheels. Not a good feeling. So after going cold turkey on my flavored water, it has returned, almost 100%, back to it's normal rhythm. And of course, it got me to thinking. What are you taking in that poisons your heart? Are you allowing toxins in through your eyes, ears and heart that are slowly but surely building up in your system and are certain to do you in?
Do you see the beauty in others, but cringe when you walk past a mirror? Are you constantly reminding yourself that you need to lose weight so you'll feel more attractive? Please be reminded that while we tend to judge based on appearances, God never does. 1 Samuel 16:7 says, “…God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”
Do you listen to the negative dialogue of family, co-workers, or the world in general (or on facebook!) so much so that you’ve allowed it to seep into your pores and make you bitter and hopeless? Faith comes by hearing the Word. God's truth. Hearing about Jesus and His life, death and resurrection. Are you listening to someone who faithfully teaches the Holy Scripture? Are you double checking your own copy of the Word to be sure what they are teaching rings true?
Has unforgiveness so settled in your bones that you forgot what you were even mad about in the first place? Would you rather stew in bitterness than to offer forgiveness? Jesus told Peter to forgive, even the same person 490 times! If you have been forgiven your sins, don't withhold forgiveness from someone else.
There's an awful lot of poisons in the world, and they're all fairly attractive at first. Even fun. But they are toxic and can ruin lives, livelihoods, families, testimonies and dreams.
In my desire to make my water drinking habit more palatable, I traded one woe for another. And in life, we often create new problems running from an old one. Jesus's yoke is easy, if you are weary of this world's. Jesus's burden is light, if you are tired of chasing your tail, trying to make sense of this messed up world we live in.
The meme is spot on. “Your diet is not only what you eat, but what you watch, what you listen to, what you read, people you hang around. Be mindful of the things you put into your body emotionally, spiritually, physically.”
“Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.” (Philippians 4:8) John MacArthur states it this way – “we are the product of what we take in.”
We are born with sin inside of us. The only answer to that problem is Jesus. The answer to all of our problems is faith in a loving Creator God, who paid the price of our sin for us. Believer, take Him up on His promises. Unbeliever, repent, believe and be truly free. A healthy heart – one whose trust is firmly placed in Christ – is one that will live forever.
Do you see the beauty in others, but cringe when you walk past a mirror? Are you constantly reminding yourself that you need to lose weight so you'll feel more attractive? Please be reminded that while we tend to judge based on appearances, God never does. 1 Samuel 16:7 says, “…God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”
Do you listen to the negative dialogue of family, co-workers, or the world in general (or on facebook!) so much so that you’ve allowed it to seep into your pores and make you bitter and hopeless? Faith comes by hearing the Word. God's truth. Hearing about Jesus and His life, death and resurrection. Are you listening to someone who faithfully teaches the Holy Scripture? Are you double checking your own copy of the Word to be sure what they are teaching rings true?
Has unforgiveness so settled in your bones that you forgot what you were even mad about in the first place? Would you rather stew in bitterness than to offer forgiveness? Jesus told Peter to forgive, even the same person 490 times! If you have been forgiven your sins, don't withhold forgiveness from someone else.
There's an awful lot of poisons in the world, and they're all fairly attractive at first. Even fun. But they are toxic and can ruin lives, livelihoods, families, testimonies and dreams.
In my desire to make my water drinking habit more palatable, I traded one woe for another. And in life, we often create new problems running from an old one. Jesus's yoke is easy, if you are weary of this world's. Jesus's burden is light, if you are tired of chasing your tail, trying to make sense of this messed up world we live in.
The meme is spot on. “Your diet is not only what you eat, but what you watch, what you listen to, what you read, people you hang around. Be mindful of the things you put into your body emotionally, spiritually, physically.”
“Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.” (Philippians 4:8) John MacArthur states it this way – “we are the product of what we take in.”
We are born with sin inside of us. The only answer to that problem is Jesus. The answer to all of our problems is faith in a loving Creator God, who paid the price of our sin for us. Believer, take Him up on His promises. Unbeliever, repent, believe and be truly free. A healthy heart – one whose trust is firmly placed in Christ – is one that will live forever.
August 29, 2020
Raindrops on my Sunglasses
Yesterday we made a grocery run. It had started to drizzle before we left, but quickly turned into a deluge of rain before we could get back in the car. On the way back, we saw some little boys, playing outside in the ditch. It looked like a grassy swimming pool. As we drove by, one was grinning from ear to ear and encouraging us to hit the puddles and splash them. Such uncontainable and pure joy on his face!
Today we had more showers on our walk. Brought back memories of running through the sprinkler as a kid. And it also reminded me of a long ago family trip to Edisto. We had rented a house for our stay, but were so excited to go to the beach, we decided to camp out at the state park the night before. And it rained. We weren't prepared for that. I remember the rain dripping on our heads as we bunked down, my Mom and I started giggling until we couldn't stop. There was nothing we could do about the Chinese water torture, but we looked beyond the rain to the joy of the week ahead.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us “to everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” There is a time for everything. Some sun, some rain, joy and pain. A purpose in all things. We need the rain in our lives to help us recognize the sunshine. The rain points our hearts toward the hope we have of sunshine to come.
Sometimes we're caught without an umbrella. Not expecting the loss of a loved one. Not expecting our friends to turn on us or the stock market to falter. It just seems the bottom drops out and washes away our hopes and dreams. We were expecting sunshine and got rain. But believer, we know the One who holds it all and nothing takes Him by surprise. And one day our tears will be wiped away permanently. We need to hold on for what's coming. Jesus did.
“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2
As I write this, the sun is out again. If you don't like the “weather”, just hold on and have hope. It's bound to change. Keep your sunglasses handy.
Today we had more showers on our walk. Brought back memories of running through the sprinkler as a kid. And it also reminded me of a long ago family trip to Edisto. We had rented a house for our stay, but were so excited to go to the beach, we decided to camp out at the state park the night before. And it rained. We weren't prepared for that. I remember the rain dripping on our heads as we bunked down, my Mom and I started giggling until we couldn't stop. There was nothing we could do about the Chinese water torture, but we looked beyond the rain to the joy of the week ahead.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 tells us “to everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven.” There is a time for everything. Some sun, some rain, joy and pain. A purpose in all things. We need the rain in our lives to help us recognize the sunshine. The rain points our hearts toward the hope we have of sunshine to come.
Sometimes we're caught without an umbrella. Not expecting the loss of a loved one. Not expecting our friends to turn on us or the stock market to falter. It just seems the bottom drops out and washes away our hopes and dreams. We were expecting sunshine and got rain. But believer, we know the One who holds it all and nothing takes Him by surprise. And one day our tears will be wiped away permanently. We need to hold on for what's coming. Jesus did.
“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:1-2
As I write this, the sun is out again. If you don't like the “weather”, just hold on and have hope. It's bound to change. Keep your sunglasses handy.
August 14, 2020
Sparky
I met Sparky today. A quick visit to my vet's office had me walking through the doors with a lady and a cat. I say “a” cat because he wasn't hers. At least not technically. Not yet anyway. As she settled in to wait to be seen, Sparky was crying a little. I asked her if he was her baby (cat lady language).
Sparky had been taken from a feral colony. A well cared for colony, fortunately, as all had been fixed and were being cared for. But Sparky had an infected mouth and needed help. So she stepped in. And she realized he was not like the other ferals. He must have been put out. He was a lap kitty. He didn't need to be released back to the group.
As she's telling me his story, he's kneading biscuits in his carrier.
But, her husband would have to approve. They already had ten indoor/outdoor cats. After he saw Sparky, his heart must have melted at his sweet soul…or he lost his mind (as my husband would say). He told her to bring him home.
Please allow me a little liberty here…Sometimes in my life I've felt how Sparky might feel. Surviving. On the fringes. Maybe in the wrong crowd but not seeing a way out. I know, you've heard the “but God” stories before, but I'm here to tell you the good news.
You see, while I was still a sinner, unlovable and an enemy of God, Jesus died for me. He died to save me, give me a new life and the promise of a home in heaven. I didn't do anything to deserve this rescue. He chose me at a time I would never choose Him.
God offers us His mercy, love and grace. We need to realize we're sinners, living apart from God and in need of a rescue. We can't rescue ourselves. We need Someone to help us. We need Jesus. We need to repent of our sin and believe. Jesus stands ready to heal our hurts and hearts.
I imagine Sparky is going to really appreciate his new home. I can see him on this sweet lady's lap soon, thankfully making biscuits. I know I'm thankful for my Rescuer. One day I know He'll take me home to be in heaven with Him. That assurance makes me grateful. I pray you know Him.
I might make biscuits in the morning.
Sparky had been taken from a feral colony. A well cared for colony, fortunately, as all had been fixed and were being cared for. But Sparky had an infected mouth and needed help. So she stepped in. And she realized he was not like the other ferals. He must have been put out. He was a lap kitty. He didn't need to be released back to the group.
As she's telling me his story, he's kneading biscuits in his carrier.
But, her husband would have to approve. They already had ten indoor/outdoor cats. After he saw Sparky, his heart must have melted at his sweet soul…or he lost his mind (as my husband would say). He told her to bring him home.
Please allow me a little liberty here…Sometimes in my life I've felt how Sparky might feel. Surviving. On the fringes. Maybe in the wrong crowd but not seeing a way out. I know, you've heard the “but God” stories before, but I'm here to tell you the good news.
You see, while I was still a sinner, unlovable and an enemy of God, Jesus died for me. He died to save me, give me a new life and the promise of a home in heaven. I didn't do anything to deserve this rescue. He chose me at a time I would never choose Him.
God offers us His mercy, love and grace. We need to realize we're sinners, living apart from God and in need of a rescue. We can't rescue ourselves. We need Someone to help us. We need Jesus. We need to repent of our sin and believe. Jesus stands ready to heal our hurts and hearts.
I imagine Sparky is going to really appreciate his new home. I can see him on this sweet lady's lap soon, thankfully making biscuits. I know I'm thankful for my Rescuer. One day I know He'll take me home to be in heaven with Him. That assurance makes me grateful. I pray you know Him.
I might make biscuits in the morning.
August 6, 2020
Gardens
As I was working in my new (as in, first effort ever) flower garden, I was thinking of a dear friend who’s Grandfather recently took his first breath in his new heavenly home. Now he was a true gardener. I’m sure a master of all things of which I am a novice. Well, maybe whatever is below a novice. It seems I struggle with outdoor plants. Anything of which I can’t control the elements has to be hardy enough to make it on it’s own. I’m trying though. And as I’m trying, I’m reminded of one of my favorite passages in Holy Scripture.
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body. For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.” Romans 8:18-25
After my efforts this morning, I gave my garden a sprinkle of rain from the garden hose. I also sprinkle the frog pond, just because the dragonflies love it. They dance in and out of the drops, pausing to rest and be refreshed on the tip of my iris leaves. The creation of God I see in my yard reminds me not only of His presence and Authorship, but also what Eden must have been like. No, not me struggling with my plants, but a lush, beautiful, dare I say happy environment in which God Himself walked in the cool of the day. And all of creation is longing for the day when Christ returns to set all things right. As a believer, I’m sure you groan with me at the events we see happening every day, but our hope is not empty or in vain. Hope in Christ will never disappoint. So we eagerly wait for redemption with perseverance.
Persevere here means to maintain your faith through trying times. I would say we are certainly living in trying times and on top of what we see all around us, we deal with job loss, health issues, financial struggles, loneliness…the list is long. But as a believer, we are to persevere.
“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Romans 5:1-4
When a flower blooms, I see hope. Every spring when new life begins outside my door, I feel it in my heart. When trouble comes, we need to learn to lean on our Hope. Jesus Christ will never disappoint. Persevere, believer. Stand firm in your faith.
One day I imagine Jesus walking in Mr. Bell’s garden. I pray you know my Jesus and the new life He gives.
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body. For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance.” Romans 8:18-25
After my efforts this morning, I gave my garden a sprinkle of rain from the garden hose. I also sprinkle the frog pond, just because the dragonflies love it. They dance in and out of the drops, pausing to rest and be refreshed on the tip of my iris leaves. The creation of God I see in my yard reminds me not only of His presence and Authorship, but also what Eden must have been like. No, not me struggling with my plants, but a lush, beautiful, dare I say happy environment in which God Himself walked in the cool of the day. And all of creation is longing for the day when Christ returns to set all things right. As a believer, I’m sure you groan with me at the events we see happening every day, but our hope is not empty or in vain. Hope in Christ will never disappoint. So we eagerly wait for redemption with perseverance.
Persevere here means to maintain your faith through trying times. I would say we are certainly living in trying times and on top of what we see all around us, we deal with job loss, health issues, financial struggles, loneliness…the list is long. But as a believer, we are to persevere.
“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Romans 5:1-4
When a flower blooms, I see hope. Every spring when new life begins outside my door, I feel it in my heart. When trouble comes, we need to learn to lean on our Hope. Jesus Christ will never disappoint. Persevere, believer. Stand firm in your faith.
One day I imagine Jesus walking in Mr. Bell’s garden. I pray you know my Jesus and the new life He gives.
June 24, 2020
Cardinals
Recently I witnessed a male cardinal feeding his mate. Even though they were both perched within good proximity of the feeder, he would hop down, grab a seed, hop back to her, and place it in her beak. He did this 7 or 8 times while I watched. A beautiful sight that reminded me of devotion and love. Mates forever, like my folks.
Tomorrow would be my parents' 59th wedding anniversary. They taught me who Jesus is. They taught me to respect others regardless of skin color or station in life. They worked together to raise a family and earn a living. They taught me, the best they could, to be the best I could. I know I disappointed them much more than made them proud. They loved and were loved. They loved the Lord and His word, and so do I.
Instead of the constant reminder of the hate in the world, I want to share some positive thoughts. “And do not neglect doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Hebrews 13:16. What good can you do for someone today? Share a smile. Tell someone they are appreciated. Mow a neighbor's yard when you mow yours.
“Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you.” Matthew 5:42. The crumpled dollar bill in your pocket might be able to help someone in need. Be generous. Maybe you have a ten or twenty to give, or even some spare time.
“So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.” Galations 6:10. Let's lift up our fellow believers and encourage them in their walk with Christ.
“As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” 1 Peter 4:10. What are your talents? How can you use them to serve others? I have friends that use their musical talents to serve on the worship team in their church. I know someone who quilted a beautiful blanket for her mother in law.
Jesus laid down His life, that we might truly live. Consider what He has done and how much He has loved. If you don't know Jesus, I pray He will open your eyes to the Truth of His Word and testimony. Let me know if I can tell you more. And one more reminder from my Savior… “This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.” John 15:12
Tomorrow would be my parents' 59th wedding anniversary. They taught me who Jesus is. They taught me to respect others regardless of skin color or station in life. They worked together to raise a family and earn a living. They taught me, the best they could, to be the best I could. I know I disappointed them much more than made them proud. They loved and were loved. They loved the Lord and His word, and so do I.
Instead of the constant reminder of the hate in the world, I want to share some positive thoughts. “And do not neglect doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Hebrews 13:16. What good can you do for someone today? Share a smile. Tell someone they are appreciated. Mow a neighbor's yard when you mow yours.
“Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you.” Matthew 5:42. The crumpled dollar bill in your pocket might be able to help someone in need. Be generous. Maybe you have a ten or twenty to give, or even some spare time.
“So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.” Galations 6:10. Let's lift up our fellow believers and encourage them in their walk with Christ.
“As each one has received a special gift, employ it in serving one another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” 1 Peter 4:10. What are your talents? How can you use them to serve others? I have friends that use their musical talents to serve on the worship team in their church. I know someone who quilted a beautiful blanket for her mother in law.
Jesus laid down His life, that we might truly live. Consider what He has done and how much He has loved. If you don't know Jesus, I pray He will open your eyes to the Truth of His Word and testimony. Let me know if I can tell you more. And one more reminder from my Savior… “This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.” John 15:12
May 23, 2020
Remember and Honor
Memorial Day is set aside to remember and honor those who gave their lives in war. We don't say “Happy Memorial Day” as we are bringing to mind those lives lost in war. It's a solemn day of remembering. Your citizenship and the freedoms, rights and privileges it provides, was fought for, for you. It was paid for with the lives of countless defenders. If you were born here, or immigrated lawfully, your freedom was bought for you at a high price and honor is due.
I just finished reading Jet Girl, which I highly recommend. And I quote, “you cannot defend a country without being willing to risk your life so that others may preserve theirs. To be willing to do this, to be willing to place yourself in harm's way for the safety of others, I believe is life's highest honor.” I applaud our young men and women seeking to serve or serving. What a calling. What a duty. What a danger. But willing to lay your lives down, if need be? I, for one, will always be unreservedly grateful.
Whether or not you consider yourself a Patriot, those who served our nation, served you, and aided in getting and keeping the rights and freedoms you enjoy. As a citizen of the United States of America, there was a price paid for you. You can hate this nation, despise her Constitution and mock her founding fathers. You can burn her flag and vilify those who love her…and still retain your citizenship.
But another price was paid and this one of the greatest cost. It was paid on Calvary for those who will believe. Jesus, the perfect Son of God died the death we deserve so that we might enter another, higher, eternal citizenship in heaven. His kingdom will never end nor be shaken. Do you belong to this Kingdom? Are you a dual citizen?
This weekend, and always, let us remember and be grateful to those men and women who determined at some point in their lives, that this country was worth dying for. I still believe she is. But also please consider the price Jesus paid. Your citizenship in this country is granted by birth or decree. But citizenship in heaven is only for those who will believe.
I just finished reading Jet Girl, which I highly recommend. And I quote, “you cannot defend a country without being willing to risk your life so that others may preserve theirs. To be willing to do this, to be willing to place yourself in harm's way for the safety of others, I believe is life's highest honor.” I applaud our young men and women seeking to serve or serving. What a calling. What a duty. What a danger. But willing to lay your lives down, if need be? I, for one, will always be unreservedly grateful.
Whether or not you consider yourself a Patriot, those who served our nation, served you, and aided in getting and keeping the rights and freedoms you enjoy. As a citizen of the United States of America, there was a price paid for you. You can hate this nation, despise her Constitution and mock her founding fathers. You can burn her flag and vilify those who love her…and still retain your citizenship.
But another price was paid and this one of the greatest cost. It was paid on Calvary for those who will believe. Jesus, the perfect Son of God died the death we deserve so that we might enter another, higher, eternal citizenship in heaven. His kingdom will never end nor be shaken. Do you belong to this Kingdom? Are you a dual citizen?
This weekend, and always, let us remember and be grateful to those men and women who determined at some point in their lives, that this country was worth dying for. I still believe she is. But also please consider the price Jesus paid. Your citizenship in this country is granted by birth or decree. But citizenship in heaven is only for those who will believe.
Remember and Honor
Memorial Day is set aside to remember and honor those who gave their lives in war. We don't say “Happy Memorial Day” as we are bringing to mind those lives lost in war. It's a solemn day of remembering. Your citizenship and the freedoms, rights and privileges it provides, was fought for, for you. It was paid for with the lives of countless defenders. If you were born here, or immigrated lawfully, your freedom was bought for you at a high price and honor is due.
I just finished reading Jet Girl, which I highly recommend. And I quote, “you cannot defend a country without being willing to risk your life so that others may preserve theirs. To be willing to do this, to be willing to place yourself in harm's way for the safety of others, I believe is life's highest honor.” I applaud our young men and women seeking to serve or serving. What a calling. What a duty. What a danger. But willing to lay your lives down, if need be? I, for one, will always be unreservedly grateful.
Whether or not you consider yourself a Patriot, those who served our nation, served you, and aided in getting and keeping the rights and freedoms you enjoy. As a citizen of the United States of America, there was a price paid for you. You can hate this nation, despise her Constitution and mock her founding fathers. You can burn her flag and vilify those who love her…and still retain your citizenship.
But another price was paid and this one of the greatest cost. It was paid on Calvary for those who will believe. Jesus, the perfect Son of God died the death we deserve so that we might enter another, higher, eternal citizenship in heaven. His kingdom will never end nor be shaken. Do you belong to this Kingdom? Are you a dual citizen?
This weekend, and always, let us remember and be grateful to those men and women who determined at some point in their lives, that this country was worth dying for. I still believe she is. But also please consider the price Jesus paid. Your citizenship in this country is granted by birth or decree. But citizenship in heaven is only for those who will believe.
I just finished reading Jet Girl, which I highly recommend. And I quote, “you cannot defend a country without being willing to risk your life so that others may preserve theirs. To be willing to do this, to be willing to place yourself in harm's way for the safety of others, I believe is life's highest honor.” I applaud our young men and women seeking to serve or serving. What a calling. What a duty. What a danger. But willing to lay your lives down, if need be? I, for one, will always be unreservedly grateful.
Whether or not you consider yourself a Patriot, those who served our nation, served you, and aided in getting and keeping the rights and freedoms you enjoy. As a citizen of the United States of America, there was a price paid for you. You can hate this nation, despise her Constitution and mock her founding fathers. You can burn her flag and vilify those who love her…and still retain your citizenship.
But another price was paid and this one of the greatest cost. It was paid on Calvary for those who will believe. Jesus, the perfect Son of God died the death we deserve so that we might enter another, higher, eternal citizenship in heaven. His kingdom will never end nor be shaken. Do you belong to this Kingdom? Are you a dual citizen?
This weekend, and always, let us remember and be grateful to those men and women who determined at some point in their lives, that this country was worth dying for. I still believe she is. But also please consider the price Jesus paid. Your citizenship in this country is granted by birth or decree. But citizenship in heaven is only for those who will believe.
April 14, 2020
Do You Know Your Worth
We were dining out one evening, sitting outside and hoping it didn't rain. Next to us was a young lady alone. Over the loud music, she was talking on her cell phone. For the life of me I don't know how she could hear. She asked the waiter for the street address, and sure enough a little while later, two young men appeared and escorted her inside the restaurant. Now, they could have been her cousins for all I know - it's not my business. But I couldn't help but notice her blue sequined bra, because her shirt did little to conceal it. I'm thinking she was looking for a ride, a date, a free meal. Just not sure. But as she walked away, my husband said to me, “she doesn't know her worth.” And I’ve been thinking about that statement ever since.
Comparison shopping. I think everyone knows someone who looks better today than they did in high school. Yes, I know her, and I won't call her out on it. 😉 But those rare beauties are just that. Rare. And either you're born with it…or you're not. No make up, skin care regime, or miracle cream will change much. Proverbs 31:30 tells us that “charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.”
Fault finding. If you consistently point out your faults, (overweight, underweight, wrinkles, frumpy hair…) then maybe you need to be reminded Who made you. And Who loves you as you are. Your worth, your value is not found in your looks. It's not found in the clothing you wear. “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” 1 Peter 3:3-4
Perfection perspective. I wonder sometimes how many girls, way too young, are obsessed with looking a certain way, because we're inundated with perfect images. Perfection is coming ladies. But I'm not convinced it should be a goal here and now. Why? Because we can never achieve it, so the pursuit of it leads to disappointment. And who’s opinion of us should matter most? “But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7
Now before you get mad, I'm not saying we shouldn't do our best to eat right and take care of our bodies. If you belong to Christ, then your body is where the Holy Spirit lives, and we should respect and treat it accordingly. But we are not all born to be perfect examples of womanhood to all people. May I repeat that? And your value is not found in your appearance. It's way deeper than your skin.
No matter what the “blue bra” young lady’s intentions were for the night, her clothing, or lack there of, revealed a clue. Ladies, if your date only wants to be with you because of what you let him (and everyone else) see, then maybe you don't know your worth either.
Comparison shopping. I think everyone knows someone who looks better today than they did in high school. Yes, I know her, and I won't call her out on it. 😉 But those rare beauties are just that. Rare. And either you're born with it…or you're not. No make up, skin care regime, or miracle cream will change much. Proverbs 31:30 tells us that “charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.”
Fault finding. If you consistently point out your faults, (overweight, underweight, wrinkles, frumpy hair…) then maybe you need to be reminded Who made you. And Who loves you as you are. Your worth, your value is not found in your looks. It's not found in the clothing you wear. “Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight.” 1 Peter 3:3-4
Perfection perspective. I wonder sometimes how many girls, way too young, are obsessed with looking a certain way, because we're inundated with perfect images. Perfection is coming ladies. But I'm not convinced it should be a goal here and now. Why? Because we can never achieve it, so the pursuit of it leads to disappointment. And who’s opinion of us should matter most? “But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7
Now before you get mad, I'm not saying we shouldn't do our best to eat right and take care of our bodies. If you belong to Christ, then your body is where the Holy Spirit lives, and we should respect and treat it accordingly. But we are not all born to be perfect examples of womanhood to all people. May I repeat that? And your value is not found in your appearance. It's way deeper than your skin.
No matter what the “blue bra” young lady’s intentions were for the night, her clothing, or lack there of, revealed a clue. Ladies, if your date only wants to be with you because of what you let him (and everyone else) see, then maybe you don't know your worth either.
