Day 179 Teach Us to Pray

 

6/28/2025

"Lord, teach us to pray."

Luke 11:1

 

A dear friend called me early this morning. I hadn't heard from her in a while, but I knew she had been extremely busy trying to balance the care of the people in her life. She tends to bite off more than she can chew at times, and she has overcome many severe personal health challenges. Still, she finds the strength and wherewithal to take care of others, even in the midst of her pain. She's loyal, faithful, and loving, and family is everything to her, as it should be. I called her a couple of days ago, just to let her know I cared, and to touch bases, as I sensed something was up, and I was right. Being attentive to the voice of God is so important, and as a friend, who seems to have more than I can handle all the time, I want to keep my discerning ears open at all times. 

As the days pass by, and the war continues in Israel, we on the prayer wall become at a loss for words. Today I heard the words, "Lord, I don't know how or what to pray" spoken by one of male intercessors, allowing himself to be vulnerable. Thankfully, when we no longer know how or what to say, Holy Spirit steps in with words that cannot be uttered, and our prayers ascend to Abba on high, as incense. He knows our hearts are surrendered to His. One of my favorite words to pray when I don't know what else to say is "HELP!" and He does.

The disciples had been with Jesus for a time, had witnessed the periods of isolation when He separated Himself to be alone with the Father, to seek Him, and here they are asking Him to teach them to pray. In Luke 11 Jesus gives us what is known as The Lord's Prayer, the Model Prayer. I say it each day as a corporate prayer and as an individual response. When we repeat the words, we should do so deliberately, slowly, so we can fully understand the significance of each plea. It is not a magic all in one prayer. It's a model to show how we are to approach a Holy God. We come to Him in humility, surrendered and laying our hearts and souls on the line, never demanding, but in reverent fear. He is God. He alone is holy.

It is interesting to note that in this context found in Luke's account, the prayer follows with Jesus teaching His apostles the importance of continuing to ask, seek, and knock, when it comes to spending time in prayer. He gives a parable of the friend who comes at midnight and asks his friend for bread. The friend wasn't responsive to the needs of the one asking, but persistence paid off. This is the key - persistence. In Matthew 6, the same request for Jesus to teach them to pray was made by the disciples during the Sermon on the Mount. But here, Jesus follows His teaching by instructing them on forgiveness. He reminds them again, as He has just said in the model prayer, "forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors," the importance of remaining without fault when they pray. If you take a look at this portion of the Sermon on the Mount, it is interesting how his teaching continues from this point on. Nothing is to be taken on granted. 

Jesus then goes on to teach about fasting, then goes on to teach about laying up treasures here on earth. Later on in Chapter 6 He will end the chapter exhorting them to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and then all other things will be added unto them. He didn't mean glitz and bling, or keeping up with the proverbial Jones. He meant to have our priorities straight by focusing on the gospel message, sharing about the kingdom of God. Jesus warns about keeping our eyes open, full of His light, focusing on the true treasure, rather than earthly riches. We cannot serve two masters. I wonder how many people attending that massive gathering understood what He was saying?! Or did they follow Him, because He performed miracles and fed them? I must believe more people were transformed, small beginnings prior to His death, burial, resurrection, and the Apostles being filled with Holy Spirit and fire on that day of Pentecost. The book of Acts describes that day the fire fell from heaven, and they were empowered from on High to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all men. They end up setting the world on fire, and they paid a dear price for their obedience and love of the Master, as we will, and as we do now.  

Before any of this can happen in the heart of a man, woman, boy, or girl, we have to listen to the very first words Jesus spoke at the beginning of His ministry, the same boldly announced by the man who preceded Him, preparing the way of the Lord. Matthew shares in his gospel that after Jesus' baptism by John the Baptist, He was led into the wilderness by Holy Spirit to be tempted by satan. After that, Jesus began to preach, and to say, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." (Matthew 4:17)

More than at any time in history these words of the kingdom of heaven being at hand are becoming more and more obvious to those who understand the words of the scriptures, the words of Jesus. We need to be aware, because we are in a spiritual battle that gains momentum daily. I don't have to look around to know that is true, but it would behoove others to take a look and paid heed. Today is the day of salvation, so make the most of it! Be ready when the King returns.

Day 178 Where do I Fit?

 

6/27/2025 

"Let go of your territory for a while. Explore some

new reefs. Scout some new regions. Much is gained by 

closing your mouth and opening your eyes." 

 

Max Lucado

And the Angels Were Silent

 

 

Hebrews 11 is the hallmark of fame of holy travelers who were remembered for their faith in God. Abraham is the forerunner of our faith, because when God told him to leave his family and his country and travel to an unknown destination, trusting Him to guide his way, without hesitation Abraham obeyed. It is through Abraham that the Hebrew line began, and God's covenant with His people was made. In Christ, believers also inherit these blessings and the mystery of a life following God's leading. There will be times in our life where we may not be given advance information, so we simply have to launch out into the deep. When I moved back to Virginia, all I had was a message to "get into the boat and sail to the other side." It took awhile, but I eventually did just that. Because of wrong decisions made previously, my entire family has faced dire consequences of not heeding God's "not yet," so I really needed to make sure this was God speaking. Obedience requires trust, but He does not promise a perfect ride. That's the journey.

This morning in our short devotional a question was asked regarding why people preferred living in cities to country living. The obvious reason is the convenience of having everything you need within a short distance. We have become an "instant society." Everything is made easier for us. Kids don't have to check out books, because they have chrome books or ipads. The fast food industry makes it easy to grab a meal and keep running. No more family meals around the table, discussing how the day went for all. No one goes outside to play, because they can play games on their devises, and they can have "AI" friends or companions. Personally, I lean towards the country lifestyle, and it doesn't bother me to have to drive an hour to a grocery store. I love the quiet, the clean air, the country smells, and the beauty of God's kingdom. I'm still waiting for that dream home or shack, I don't really care. I would accept a hobbit burrow in a hill, just so I could rest and dream. I live at the edge of country, with a row of crepe myrtle trees lining the back yard where I have situated my retro red metal chair, hidden from view, where I can enjoy the tranquility of nature. I had it positioned too close to the bird bath, so we fought for the location. My chair got the hits, so I moved it to a better area. I remember my daddy sitting out under the big maple in the back yard. It is still shady, but it is much taller now. He loved to rest in the cool of the evening. These are the simple things and ways, but few appreciate simplicity any more. 

It's fun to study the history of civilization, noting how people lived, how they felt about their lives, the changes over the centuries. There are places, people who still live a simpler life style. The Amish people probably sticks out in people's mind, as they do not have any modern conveniences, living simply, in community, where they help each other in time of need. If one suffers, they all suffer. That sounds like how it was in the Acts 2 church. I admire the Amish people, because they work hard, and they actually enjoy it, plus they never go without anything they need. God provides.

I pulled out an old movie just to escape for a brief time, and to dream a bit. Divergent is about a futuristic world in which society is divided into five factions based on the characteristics of those within each faction. 1) Abnegation - included those who put others before themselves, lived simply, depriving themselves of unnecessary or self-serving pleasures. Even a mirror was not allowed, because it could lead to pride. 2) Amity - included those who lived peacefully with others, kind, avoiding conflict. 3) Candor - included those who believed in living honest, transparent lifestyles, devoid of any form of deceit or idleness. 4) Erudite - included elite members of society who prided themselves on their educational prowess and understanding. They considered themselves enlightened and obvious leaders. 5) Dauntless - included the peacekeepers, without fear, never afraid to take a risk, reckless in their attitudes and actions, resolute.

The title "Divergent" if acknowledged by those who administered tests was never disclosed, because it would bring death. These people were feared by others, because they did not fit into one faction, they had the characteristics of all five factions, so they were feared and eliminated. In reality, those within this all inclusive group, who possessed the qualities of all five factions, were the perfect balance all in one person. Who else would be better equipped to be the leaders in a society than one who shared all the characteristics of this society. It's an interesting study of people and what they consider the answer to living in balance.

The Lord gives us personality traits or "gifts of the Spirit" as we each have a plan and purpose for being on this earth. It's nice to know the gifts and callings of Holy Spirit, so we are able to walk in our purpose and be a blessings to all others. I was forced to take a spiritual gifts test a couple of years ago, and I really didn't fit into one category, rather they were all bunched up together. It's hard to say what I feel is more important than another. I've never bee a good test taker. I just did what I felt God was calling me to do, or if there was a vacancy in the church, I just stepped in to teach or do whatever was needed. I never considered myself particularly "gifted," but this didn't keep me from helping where needed. But, I do have dreams that never die, and I think that could be a good thing.

From time to time I revisit the question of fulfilling my purpose, so Max's quotation from his book got me thinking again, as did other prompts. So, who knows what tomorrow may bring. Perhaps I'm on the verge of a miracle?! 

Day 177 Surrounded

 

6/26/2025 

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is

perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for

us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory,

while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things

which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporal,

but the things which are not seen are eternal."

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

 

When I woke up this morning, I felt like a drenched kitten the humidity was high, and it was so muggy. I was up and down all night trying to get comfortable, as I do not have air conditioning in the old house, only a ceiling fan, that I inadvertently turned off when I turned the lights off.  I had back pain, leg pain, foot pain, and I was frazzled beyond description. 

 

The cup of coffee did not help, but a cool shower helped, until I stepped out of the shower into the sauna. In my moment of desperation my son and I went to Lowe's to check out air conditioners. I developed a headache from the shock of an air conditioned car and the building, plus I couldn't make up my mind whether I wanted a portable a/c or a window unit. Frustrated over my inability to decide, I decided to return home and pull out the extra fan. It was badly in need of cleaning, but I used it nonetheless. It did help, as did the shifting weather and the rain, slight as it was, but it did help cool things off a bit. When I first moved back home, the topic of installing an air conditioner was discussed, but Daniel had his window unit, plus the cool downstairs retreat, and I was resolute in my determination to relive my childhood without the modern conveniences of today. I can't believe how soft I've become in my older age. Heat never bothered me before, but now things are different. I was ready to move back to the hills of New Mexico!! 

Thursday evenings I have my Harvest study group, but the impending storm and loss of my internet canceled that gig. Still, I was able to tune phone in to two different meetings last night, and I caught up on the IFA prayer call needs. So, all was not lost, but again, my routine changed abruptly. Still, I did accomplish something, and it was a peaceful night, or so I thought. I made the mistake of going outside to check up on Alex, and every mosquito in town must have been given notice that I was home and available for attack. Alcohol has become my best friend, and I'm not supposed to be using that toxic chemical on my body. I am speaking of the rubbing alcohol, just in case someone new is reading this blog. I also found an ant on my bed, and I definitely do not want to fend off ant attacks in my own bed!! 

 

When you're miserable for whatever reason, it's easy to become discouraged, but this is the time I think back over my life, and I wonder. When I'm out in the wilds...near shopping centers and people, I always manage to make a friend. Checking out at Lowe's I met a lady employee who said she was turning 75 in August, and she was still working. I told her I'd be 75 in August, and I needed a job, so I could shop at Lowe's. We laughed, but she ended up hugging me, because we felt like kindred spirits as we shared our desire to beat the popular idea that once you're over 70 you may as well dig a hole and jump in!! Well, that's a myth! I now have a friend in the community, sort of! We bonded, we talked, we laughed, we hugged...! That's friendship!

I assure you that there is a serious note to my blog for today, as the day was rather a busy one. I just had to take a small break for sanity's sake! The weather certainly got the best of me, but I did manage my morning calls. Discussion of terrorists, uranium stockpiles, detonators and secret rendezvous and other secret stuff can be profitable, but the answer to all situations is left in the hands of God. When considering the power of an enemy, feeling surrounded on all sides, with no way of escape, it does us well to consider examples of God's faithfulness in such dire times. In 2 Kings 6:16-17 the Syrian enemy had made war with Israel, and the city was surrounded so the servant of Elisha the prophet became very distraught over the situation. Elisha told his servant, "Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them." Elisha prayed, "LORD, I pray, open his eyes that he may see." Then the Lord opened the servant's eyes, and "behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha." In this time of war and uncertainly we must keep our eyes on the Captain of the Army of Heaven, knowing that there are indeed more with us than those with the enemy. 

In the evening, I decided to watch a movie set in an another time, but there was war, and the enemy seemed invincible. But, not so, when good is greater than evil. This reassures me in a happenstance way, that women are stronger in certain ways. It's our inner courage, our lioness quality, the way we approach danger or threat of danger. We are after all soldiers of the King, so enemies of any sort, can easily be overthrown when our eyes are fixed on Jesus. We need only open our eyes and look around us!

  

 

Day 176 Summing It Up

 

 

 6/25/2025

 "I sought the Lord, and He heard me,

and delivered me from all my fears."

Psalm 34:4

 

Yesterday, after trudging through the muck and mire and stepping on to solid ground again, I decided that I'd just sit still and listen awhile, before I began another day. Determined to forego my usual life, of sifting through countless emails, silencing all the incoming calls and group text messages - none of which I initiated - or any of a number of things that cloud my perspective or bring me down, I determined I'd shut down anything that distracted me, so I could just focus on doing what God wanted me to do at the time. I feel that the daily prayer calls have disrupted my "routine," as I mentioned a day or so ago, but it is a blessed necessity, and I answered a call I believe was God-sent. I've made adjustments over all these days, going on two years now. So now I can breathe, continue to take it one day at a time, just as I have tried to live my life with Christ always. Thankfully, I'm on an upward swing, with no more rabbit holes or eating rug days.

Today was a quiet day in Israel, as far as Iran's attacks are concerned; however, in Gaza, as the search for mines and arsenals, and the search for the hostages continues, tragedy struck. An explosive device set by Hamas exploded killing seven IDF soldiers, and another incident injured two more. So while life as "normal" returned to the streets of Jerusalem, with children returning to school and others playing in the streets, without alerts scream for them to get to shelters, the war in Gaza continues with clean up.

On a national scene, I don't think we ever have a real day of peace, as the incessant chatter against our administration wages war on all that is holy and just. Every day I receive junk emails or have interruptions in the video I am watching on YouTube with political drama. I'm not really one who watches videos unless they are ministry-based, but there are even disturbing advertisements on them. I wonder if anyone has a conscience. I am so careful about what I watch, and I certainly do not trust a secular media report, unless I can hear the actual verbal account from the one making it, and not a person reporting that "he said" or "she said." I don't know why Christians waste their time listening to such garbage, but many do. Didn't Paul the Apostle tell us in Philippians 4:8 to think on the good, pure, lovely things of a good report? Jesus had much to say on the Sermon on the Mount in Chapter 5-7 of Matthew. Really good stuff every Christ follower should read. Abba refers me to it often, as a reminder, and a smack on the hand. I'm smiling as I write these words, because God is faithful to keep me in line. It's part of the comfort offered by our Comforter, Holy Spirit who abides in me. I'm so grateful He does.

Today in the meeting we also discussed the rising antisemitism in the church over the question of Replacement Theology. Whereas I have said I do not understand how educated theologians who pat themselves on the back for their academic achievements cannot understand the truth of the Bible regarding Israel, God's chosen people, it is nonetheless true, as I have witnessed it myself. Other things I witness too, as I mentioned yesterday, but I don't want to get back into that mental/spiritual controversy today. I am focusing on what Jesus is saying, but He does have much to say about that subject in Romans 11. Okay, I couldn't resist a little insert. 

Many scriptures were prayed, many declared, but the one I think is so appropriate for this day, and this time in history is Psalm 46:

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed,

and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea;

Though its waters roar and be troubled,

though the mountains shake with its swelling.

Selah

There is a river whose streams shall make glad the city of God,

the holy place of the Tabernacle of the Most High.

God is in the midst of her, she shall not be moved;

God shall help her, just at the break of dawn.

The nations raged, the kingdoms were moved;

He uttered His voice, the earth melted.

The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge.

Selah

Come, behold the works of the LORD, who has made desolations in the earth.

He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; He breaks the bow 

and cuts the spear in two; He burns the chariot in the fire.

Be still and know that I am God;

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth!   

The LORD of hosts is with us;

The God of Jacob is our refuge.

Selah 

Considering all things, I'd say that sums up God's perspective on everything! 

   

Day 175 Pause and Remember

 

6/24/2025

 "You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds

are steadfast, because they trust in you."

Isaiah 26:3

  

These past two days have been rather tense, and my "irritation quotient" nearing implosion rate. It seems as if my spirit, my inner being, has been heightened, and my spiritual eyes have been allowed to "see" or "discern" more than my human heart can bear. I don't know if that is an accurate description of how I am feeling or not. To say that I am emotionally disturbed by what I see and sense may be a better explanation, but then, I imagine whoever reads this may wonder "what is she saying!" The words of this song, Be Magnified by Randy Rothwell, may help: 

"I have made you too small in my eyes
Oh Lord, forgive me
And I have believed in a lie
That you were unable to help me

 

But now, oh Lord, I see my wrong
Heal my heart and show yourself strong
And in my eyes, and with my song
Oh Lord, be magnified
Oh Lord, be magnified

 

Be magnified, oh Lord
You are highly exalted
And there is nothing You can't do
Oh Lord, my eyes are on You
Be magnified
Oh Lord, be magnified

 

I have leaned on the wisdom of men
Oh Lord, forgive me
And I have responded to them
Instead of your light and your mercy

 

But now, oh Lord, I see my wrong
Heal My Heart and show yourself strong
And in my eyes and with my song
Oh Lord, be magnified
Oh Lord, be magnified"

As I began writing, this song began to play; it's as if God wanted to make sure my thoughts and feelings were being properly conveyed. Music helps me express my emotions when my own words often fall short. When I try to talk to my son about what I am sensing, I appear overly concerned about the human condition, something that has deeply bothered him for years giving way to deep inner conflict. So, I should know better than to burden him with things that only add to his problems. My first inclination is that in seeing what I see, the problem must be my own, that I am being overly critical or judgmental, so I repent once more, sinner that I am. Then I snap out of that feeling, as I am not going down that rabbit hole any more. I recognize the spiritual attack. No, this is part of what I have been allowed to see for a reason. Still, repentance is never not needed, as I never want to think I know more than I do, because I don't. That is the problem I am sensing with others.

The verse above, "I have leaned on the wisdom of men," is the focus. I have written about this in so many ways, some more directly than others, but it seems as if the words of Jesus are always before me:

 "And the LORD said to me, 'The prophets prophesy lies in My name. 

I have not sent them, commanded them, nor spoken to them; 

they prophesy to you a false vision, divination, a worthless thing, 

and the deceit of their heart."

Jeremiah 14:14

All my life I have observed others and intently watched how emotions, fear being the greatest one, work in the hearts of man (inclusive) to not rely on the words and counsel of God, rather they must run to a person for a word from the Lord. Jesus spoke about this in His teachings. I am watching as groups of people develop into a movement, then the movement grows larger than life, except when discernment comes in, otherwise that  group may splinter into another group, eventually growing into another movement, another camp of seemingly spiritual wherewithal. It becomes so nauseating to watch and scary, especially among those professing belief in Christ. I have become so skeptical of people who demand respect and acclaim because of academic achievements. Does a person's credibility become more profound based on "post-nominal letters" than on their relationship with the Almighty God, for whom they say they speak? So, as the lowly one with on a BS attached to my name (note the pun), I admit my confusion and dismay.

So here I am today, rethinking over recent developments. It is also disconcerting to me to consider how one moment in time someone is hailed for their decision to save the planet from certain, eventual nuclear destruction, or on a smaller scheme, the country of Israel and the larger nation of the United States of America (notice the emphasis on the latter to note our home), to do an about face and have the news media, and even Christians who think they can read facial expressions, begin to rip the man to shreds! I don't understand. Maybe my lack of education prevents me from it?! Regardless, respect should be shown. If the man who was cursed, because of another's frustration and obvious fatigue (and who wouldn't be?!), can accept regret for those hastily spoken words and give forgiveness, who are we, all sinners, to complain?! Even in the church - who made us God that we think we can give our opinions so freely or say, "Thus saith the Lord?" I think God expressed the same sentiment in Jeremiah, and then again in Ezekiel.

When I witness all that I am seeing on a national level, especially in churches, it brings me to my knees and to literal tears of repentance and great sadness. When David repented of his sins, God said that He looked for someone with a broken and contrite heart and a broken spirit, this meant that David realized he did not deserve God's mercy. I know I don't deserve His mercy or grace, and I will never forget the day I looked into Jesus's face, hanging on that cross for me. We change, because you can never erase the vision from your eyes. Not as a torment, because I am forgiven, but from a keen awareness of where I would be  except by the grace of God. Then I'd miss seeing the altogether lovely One who gave His life for me, so I could have relationship with God in this life and in the next.

I think this is a better way to spend my days.

Day 174 Just Thinking

 

6/23/2025

"Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me; 

You will stretch out Your hand against the wrath of

my enemies, and Your righteous right hand will save me.

The Lord will perfect that which concerns me, Your mercy,

O LORD, endures forever; do not forsake the works of Your hands."  

Psalm 138:7-8 

 

I have decided that regardless of what happens today, I want to begin my days as I used to do, silently, waiting, and listening. Sometimes when I open my eyes I am greeted by an impatient cat either sitting at my door or Alex, scratching at my window. I've been waking earlier lately, probably because I am forcing myself to go to bed earlier, even if alarms are going off. Maybe I'll be able to snag a cup of coffee before the creatures sense my presence. We'll see how that goes.

Quiet time passed quickly, as prayer calls come early, and I am beginning to think about that as possibly a distraction. I can always catch it later, if I miss it, or if I am directed otherwise. As I write these words, I'm listening to a song based on scripture, "teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom...." I'm learning that although I love walking through the word each day, as I read it each year book by book, it is not a failure or sin if I get behind, because God has other plans. With everything that happens in our nation daily, and since I have daily prayer calls for Israel, and I am very committed to intercession, I need to listen and remain calm, and seek God's wisdom above man's. I do well with that, but honestly, I have been irritated about some things lately. Just little things people say without thinking, because we need to guard what we say. We are each responsible for what we do and say in this life. None are perfect, we make mistakes, but we seek forgiveness, and we go on. Unforgiveness and anger are two powerful and evil demonic entities that are destructive to a person's character and health. So much healing is needed in this world. But Jesus can died to set us free, and as His, we need to call on Him to help.

My refrigerator is covered with magnets, many with sayings or words of encouragement. I was looking at one this evening when I went to grab some water, and it was a picture of a little girl playing in the yard with her dog. They had obviously been playing, and she was squatting beside him as he laid on his back, petting his belly. He was thrilled with the attention and love. The message read: "We make a living by what we get...we make a life by what we give." That's definitely a sentiment worth thinking about. I love to give, so this is probably why I chose this particular magnet. It used to think that I could give more to people if I made more money, especially now, because being retired I don't have the same resources. But one day, as I was thinking about something Abba said to me a long time ago, I began to think about things in a different light. I may have mentioned this recently, so I'll leave it open for consideration. 

I received a phone call from a friend I'd not spoken to in a while, who said she'd been thinking about me for a couple of weeks, so she thought she'd call. We had a nice long phone visit, and shared some things, discovering that we still are being led by the Lord in similar ways. At least we understand each other without having to say very much. That's always good, because, as I've shared, I tend to think too fast, and it frustrates others when I'm finished a thought, and they are still at the beginning of the conversation. It's hard to "fit" in sometimes. So this was good for me, and I hope it was reciprocal.

The day is done, the hour is late, and the bugs are attracted to the lights. May tomorrow bring all who read this blog blessings beyond your wildest imaginings. 

Day 173 Wonder

 

6/22/2025 

"A man's heart plans his way,

but the LORD directs his steps."

Proverbs 16:9

It is exceptionally hot and sticky this evening as I struggle to put my thoughts together rationally. The clock keeps ticking, the day is ending, and I am beginning to tire after a day of questionable success. I always enjoy my weekends with Jesus, attending church services, being around believers in Christ, listening to the word being taught line by line, the whole counsel of the word. Today things have been changed around a bit after a night of cat and mouse, trying to sort through the aftermath of chaos in my own life, along with the drama continually enfolding in our world. I can be having a wonderful, leisurely day, even though I'm engaged in prayer for nations at war, when out of the blue, the phone rings, and I mistakenly pick it up, and the atmosphere shifts. Still, I can focus on what I need to say or do, or I can listen for the Lord's clear call. Family drama still seems to follow me no matter where I am, and although I am getting better at setting boundaries, it still is not easy to silence the never-ending retorts of the enemy. I thank God for the gifts of long-suffering and mercy. 

Yesterday I missed my regular Shabbat services, so perhaps a portion of my balanced life was misplaced. It was a relatively calm day, but with the summer heat advancing and humidity rising, even I can have a few bad days, although I've always enjoyed summers. Mosquitoes seem to love me. It must be something about AB+ blood that entices them, because all I have to do is look outside for a second, and I get hit a dozen times or better. I have a very small vegetable garden that needs tending badly, but I am not going to pull one more weed until I can do something about those brute beasts. 

My long haired cat needs a good brushing and trimming too, but every time I go near him with the brush, I end up with more hair on my arms, legs, and face than he has on his body. Well, that is a bit of an exaggeration, but I do get messy. Alex doesn't seem to care how many tree berries or leaves he has tangled and matted in his fur, his favorite pastime is lounging in the tall grass, on his back, with legs outstretched, and his arms over his head. He's hilarious to watch, and he definitely feels as if he owns the yard. When he first arrived on my doorstep, he learned to let me know he was at the door by pulling himself up the screen with his big claws and hanging there. I had just re-screened that door, had it looking so good, and he destroyed it in one day. Somehow, it didn't matter, so I just let him have his fun. I thought I'd buy my next back door with the screen at the top, but Alex clearly has no respect for metal doors, as the front storm door is metal at the bottom, so Alex will claw it to announce his arrival. I wonder if we lowered the doorbell if we could teach him to use that instead?! That cat!! Inside, Daniel's cat, Mia, becomes jealous, so she starts to scratch my wood on the dining room chairs. Granted these chairs are not expensive, and they are slightly loved, as I purchased them from Habitat for Humanity's shop in Santa Fe years ago, but it's the thought that counts. Even it's old, like I am, I want it stay nice, at least meeting my definition of nice. It must be true that cats rule though, or so my son believes. He calls Mia the Queen of the house.  This is why I've always been a dog person!

In case you're wondering why I haven't picked up where I left off last night, well, I'm not so sure I really want to talk about it. I've been trying to avoid news, because I receive way too many updates from Christian media and prayer networks in my email as it is. I decided that I was going to do what God told me to do, what I've mentioned umpteen times in my blogs...keep my focus on the only one who matters - Jesus, King of glory. Since it was early, I decided I'd tune into Jesus Image Sunday morning service. Michael Koulianos was speaking about the presence of the Lord, a subject very dear to me. We cannot do anything without His presence, His peace, His love consuming our lives. Without His presence we have nothing. Some days, like now, I'll put on music from Jesus' Image softly playing in the background as I read, pray or write. It's soothing hearing the words "Hosanna, hosanna, in the highest...." Many times, after a highly emotional day, I can close my eyes and sing along, tears flowing down my cheeks as I am lifted into His presence. I get lost in the wonder of His love, and the surreal, priceless shalom that permeates my being. I am home in His presence. And at least for a short time, I can forget about the world situation, and simply focus on Him.