Resting

I've been spending the afternoon lost in the fantasy world of Dinotopia where dinosaurs live with and communicate with humans. I realize that my time may have been better spent in contemplating the important matters that concern us today, but quite honestly I need a break. Especially since tomorrow I head back out into the real world where the stress is real.

Today I was reminded of when the expert in the law asked Jesus this question: "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?" Jesus responded to him, "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." Jesus told him this was the first and greatest commandment, but He also quickly added, "Love your neighbor as yourself." The author of the devotional I was studying was speaking of the over 600 regulations that the Pharisees argued over religiously. She was comparing it to the thousands of pages of tax codes and how regardless of the laws, there are always loopholes that really have nothing to do with looking out for the welfare of others. The only one who could actually fulfill the law perfectly back in Bible times as well as today is Jesus. He came to fulfill the law of the Prophets. It's all rather overwhelming, as noted in the devotional, which is why we can run to Jesus when life gets demanding and confusing. God wants us to have a relationship with Him through Jesus. That's the whole point. And it's especially in times like these that we need to run to Him where He waits with open arms. As my pastor says, if God loves us, then He's concerned with everything that concerns us.

Again I reference David while watching the sheep in the fields, or while running for his life from King Saul. When he wrote the Psalms he was being real about how he felt at the time. He called God his rock, his shelter in the time of need. But David also wrote psalms of praise to God. He had lots of time to think about and realize who God really was to him and what his relationship meant to him on a daily basis. This is what getting to know and love God is all about.

Spending time with the Lord at the beginning of my day is very important to me. In fact my day just doesn't go smoothly unless I spend time talking with my Father before I have to leave the house, especially now. If I don't fill up on Jesus, then I have nothing to give to the people I encounter during the day, and now is the time to shine when the world is anxious and afraid. I have to sit in my Father's lap, talk, write in my journal the thoughts that come, and find out what He wants me to do each day. Many mornings I cry when things become so overwhelming to me, but I feel comforted just knowing He's there holding me. It's kinda like falling down, being picked up, dusted off, and going on your merry little way. Some days are more difficult, so I make sure I play praise music or listen to uplifting talks, anything to encourage me so I can in turn be a light for others.

I don't know what any of this has to do with watching Disney or other movies to temporarily escape reality. But then, maybe it's because I know Jesus likes the same movies I do, especially when good overcomes evil. I hope you enjoyed your day today! If not, it's not too late to put on a funny movie. Laughter, after all, is good medicine!!

WOTL - Wait on the Lord

Last night was an on-off type of sleep pattern ending too abruptly with a sciatic nerve attack early this morning. Ouch! Still, I have no complaints as I'm an early riser, and I had some things I wanted to accomplish. My "to do lists" are shorter these days, because I don't have the stamina to do much, especially after working all week. No, it's not my age, son! My younger son always reminds me that I'm advancing in years and need to slow down. But I assure him that I have a few more leagues to go, although I do appreciate that he is concerned about his old mama!

Yesterday was a challenging day in many ways not necessarily associated with our current crisis. A careless driver almost front-ended me at a stop sign by making a left turn too sharply and too fast. That'll wake you up quickly! I work during the days caring for a precious lady in her 90's who's a joy to be around. We giggle and try to find the good things in life to discuss much like Pollyanna's Glad Game. I do work hard at my scheduled tasks, so by the end of my shift I'm pooped. I think the news wears me down many times, but I must admit it also lightens my heart to hear how people are working together to help others. Like the young college kids taking meals to or running errands for those who are alone and vulnerable. Social media groups like Zoom and Hangouts are encouraging people to meet online to ease the loneliness of social distancing. Many people are being creative, and rather than being in the dumps, they are joining together to encourage and lift the spirits of others.

Over the past few weeks someone has been trying to hack one of my accounts. Yesterday my cell phone almost shut down completely as I received message after message of applications shutting down. For a minute I thought the perpetrator had found a way in, but I'm still safe. Rather than allow this drama to become my focus, I cut the phone off and went about my business. Hours later I was successful in extinguishing the flames, for the time being. I guess someone is trying to find an easy way to earn a living at the expense of another. But it happens all the time.

These are strange and perilous times. In my reading today I was reminded of a Psalm I memorized as a child and sang as a chorus as an adult:

The LORD is my light and my salvation-- whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life-- of whom shall I be afraid? When evil men advance against me to devour my flesh, when my enemies and my foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident. One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple. For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the shelter of his tabernacle and set me high upon a rock. Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his tabernacle will I sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the LORD. Hear my voice when I call, O LORD; be merciful to me and answer me. My heart says of you, "Seek his face!" Your face, LORD, I will seek. Do not hide your face from me, do not turn your servant away in anger; you have been my helper. Do not reject me or forsake me, O God my Savior. Though my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me. Teach me your way, O LORD; lead me in a straight path because of my oppressors. Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes, for false witnesses rise up against me, breathing out violence.I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait on the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait on the LORD. 

 Psalm 27 

The final words, "Wait on the Lord," is our focus for today. Again, borrowing a lesson from the life of David, the youngest of eight brothers who, prior to becoming a King, tended the family's flocks of sheep! Rather than grumble and complain about his job, David found ways to grow and learn and occupy his down time in a positive way. He was a "talented harp player" and writer of psalms. He became a "brave warrior" by saving his flocks from bears and lions; a skill he later honed to slay the giant Goliath. He was a handsome, young man whom the Lord called the "apple of His eye." He lived a seemingly obscure life as a youngster, but He caught God's attention by taking the time to listen and grow closer to God.

"There are times when God asks nothing of

His children except silence, patience, and tears."

Daily Walk Bible

Scripture reminds us that God is for us, not against us (Romans 8:31). He never leaves us nor forsakes us (Hebrews 13:5). He will keep in perfect peace all who trust Him and whose thoughts are fixed on Him (Isaiah 26:3).

As we WOTL I have a little challenge to propose, a way I try to keep my focus clear. Each day ask yourself these questions:

     1. What and who am I grateful for? Name three.

     2. What is right in my life right now? Name three things.

Make it a family game as you share a meal. It will help everyone in your circle of influence develop an attitude of gratitude and hopefully help you get to know each other a little better. Make up your own questions. Be creative and have fun! And be sure to share how you're coming along with me, because being alone I enjoy a little social interaction! Plus I care about you all. God's blessings and peace be on each of you!

"Find joy in the Journey"

Rejoice in the Lord always!

Philippians 4:4

If My People

 

Each day life changes as the world waits anxiously for a turn in our current state of emergency. Many people are sick and countless more are fearful not knowing what to expect. Today we heard that the schools will remain closed for the rest of the school year as our leaders continue to battle the unseen enemy crippling our nation and world. Many have lost their jobs and are buckling under that stress wondering how they will be able to make ends meet. Many others are volunteering their time to help people in distress in whatever way they can to make life a little easier. We all have something we can do.

As I listen to reports each day of the steps being taken by our leaders to combat the disease, I am encouraged to hear our President ask our nation to pray. I believe that prayer is the best thing that we can do. If we are truly a nation under God, then He is the one to seek in our time of need. God is looking for those who will stand in the gap. I am reminded of Ezekiel 22:30 where God says:

"I looked for a man among them who would build up the wall

and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so

I would not have to destroy it, but I found none."

It was a relief to hear that Congress agreed on legislation today that will bring relief to many who are struggling financially. Many times it takes something like this threat to the welfare of all for people to get along and work together for the common good. It is sad that it takes a crisis for this to happen. I continue to ask God to break my heart for what breaks His, and I ask Him to show me things is my life that are not pleasing to Him. I want my life to line up with His word. I want to live the better life Jesus taught us how to live. In John 16:33 Jesus comforts His disciples by telling them, "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Today as I studied 2 Samuel 11-14, I read the account of King David's err in judgment when he took his eyes off God and sinned with Bathsheba setting in motion a chain of events. As the author puts it: "David's reign was marked by material wealth, military success, social prestige, and the promise of future prosperity. But in David's heart, a steady erosion was taking place in his ability to withstand temptation - a spiritual slide away from God prompted by an undisciplined life of passion, polygamy, and idle pleasure. When the moment of temptation came, David had no power to resist, and the rest is history."  When God used Nathan the prophet to confront David with his sin, David responded in humility and repentance. He acknowledged that first and foremost he had sinned against God. God forgave David, and we see Bathsheba's son Solomon listed in the lineage of Christ. God is looking for men like David who are quick to repent and restore their fellowship with God.

Throughout history God has been faithful to answer the prayers of repentant men and women who humble themselves and cry out to Him. He's waiting now. I am thankful that there are men of courage who will stand up and ask for prayer, admitting that we need God not just at this time, but all the time. I am answering the call, and I pray you are also.

As We Wait

I love listening to the sound of birds singing in the early morning as the sun rises over the mountains. A gentle breeze plays a sweet melody on my wind chimes as the sun illuminates my day. Even the discordant, relentless buzzing in my head cannot distract me from the music of nature I love.

I've always enjoyed mountain biking. The scenery is magical as I fearlessly whiz along the paths. The air stirs and rustles the trees, and the harmonies blend into a beautiful symphony as all of nature joins into the chorus. Music always awakens the wonder within me, whether it comes from a radio, a concert, or my imagination. God fills me up, and my cup runs over!

Even at a time like now where many are staying home, we can still enjoy the sights, sounds, smells of nature just by opening a window or cracking a shade letting in light. Light always dispels darkness. One of my favorite movies is August Rush about a young musical prodigy who hears music in all the sounds and sights around him - kids playing basketball, traffic, voices, dogs barking, or wind blowing over a field of wheat.

My Mornings with Jesus devotional reminded me of the magical moments gifted to us each day. The author shares,

"My commute has become special as I savor the sounds around

me and realize that the sound of humanity is a gift from God,

just like birdsong or a babbling brook. I hear Jesus speaking

to me in this diverse human chorus, and I marvel at His

beauty and wisdom." 

-Elizabeth Berne DeGear

So take the time to listen today. Jesus communicates with us in many ways. Just listen!

Lessons I'm Learning - 2

Today is my day off, so I am home resting. I keep hearing that I am one of the vulnerable ones since I'm in that senior age category and my autoimmune system is a risk factor. But I don't feel like I'm compromised. But, since I'm still working, I need to ensure the safety of my clients as well as my daughter's, so I am laying low today.

I've been asking the Lord to teach me what I need to learn and how to apply the lessons learned in the way in which I conduct my life, including speech, actions, and attitudes. Previously I've mentioned the importance of letting people know how important they are, especially during this crisis. Being kind and having an attitude of gratitude towards others. Being available and sharing encouragement. Now that tighter restrictions have been set many more people will become afraid and anxious. It's important to reassure one another and give hope. We can't pray and ask for miracles if we don't believe they will happen. Today I was reminded of God's faithfulness by a quotation from O. Hallesby:

"If we pray for anything according to the will

 of God, we already have what we pray for the moment 

we ask it. We do not know exactly when it will arrive; but we 

have learned to know God through the Spirit of God, and have 

learned to leave this in His hands,  and to live just as happily 

whether the answer arrives immediately or later."

Before they call, I will answer, and while they

are yet speaking, I will hear.

Isaiah 65:24

Life is definitely slowing down because of necessity, and it allows time to consider many things. The hoarding of certain items, toilet paper being the primary thing, has made me think about how much we waste as Americans. Speaking for myself, I have been noticing for quite some time how much food that goes bad before I eat it. Not because of an over abundance, as I don't keep very much food on hand. I live very simply and prefer soups, stews or casseroles that last more than one day. Since I work it makes it easier for me to eat sensibly without much fuss in preparation. I live alone, so it make sense. Still, I tend to let fresh vegetables and fruits go to waste by not eating them on time. I'm trying to change that habit.

I'm also learning that one roll of toilet paper goes a long way when it is used sensibly. After having to stand in line one morning in order to buy a package, I gained a better perspective of how things really are when the world is in an uproar. I have had an equally difficult time finding some staple goods, but I believe that is getting better. After all I really don't need that much for myself.

I'm sure I have much more to learn as the days go on. I want to grow in this experience, as I believe there's a purpose for every thing we endure in this life. My life has been an example of how the Lord  relentlessly pursues to fulfill His purpose. I am trying to keep learning and growing each day. Thankfully I still have time, and God is very patient and kind with me.

I hope things are going well with you as we journey along.

Lessons I'm Learning

Yesterday I wrote about the challenges I have been facing during this time of crisis in our world. I was reminded by a friend that having an attitude of gratitude is something we all need to show in our actions daily, especially now.

Whereas I have trying to thank all the front liners for standing strong, not quitting, but continuing on to serve us. It takes great courage to stand in the face of the enemy. I also want to thank those who have valiantly stood with me and my daughter over the years whether it be front lines or behind the scenes. We have continued to have support up to this day, and I know that it will continue, because that is what love is all about. Those who support her tangibly are a little busy right now, because they are part of the front line. But I remain grateful, because I know they hold my daughter and me in their prayers and thoughts...always, as we do them.

So thank you friends for your love and support, not only to my daughter and me, but to all those you serve as you and your families endure the days ahead. We hold you in prayer as well, and we are forever grateful!

Stay well and safe!!

Fear No More

I am reminded today of Queen Esther. When her people faced annihilation, she put aside her fear, fasted and prayed and met the enemy face on. She was placed in the palace as the wife of the enemy king by the Lord for such a time to fulfill His purpose. God does things like that, even today. He makes preparation.

Several weeks ago I had a dream. I've been struggling with fear, guilt, shame for a long, long time. My counselor has been interested in my crazy dreams in an attempt to find a pattern. This dream, however, was different. I was in a store, and there were several circles on the floor. Children were coming up and placing things into the circles. I could not see any tangible objects in their hands. One boy needed to leave, as he had someone waiting outside. I told him he still had something left to do. So he put what appeared to be a stuffed animal on the door as a sign to the one who was waiting that he was still inside. It was at that time my alarm clock went off, so I woke up.  The first words from my mouth were, "Lord, what was that all about!!" I closed my eyes, and I saw the store door open and I saw a child holding the hand of an adult leave the store. I opened my eyes, got up to walk to the kitchen, and I heard God clearly say, "Fear no more!" I was reminded of Psalm 23 and the words, "Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me...." Since that time I have been abnormally fearless and at peace. Over the past two weeks it has been as if God has been telling me that I needed to get rid of the garbage I have been holding on to and do what I have been called to do at "such a time as this."

I have been part of an intercessory prayer group for many years. Assignments arrive about every three months, and I must say that I feel very inadequate when it comes to prayer these days. But as Max Lucado reminded me in a recent quotation, "All of us have a donkey." I am also reminded that God used a donkey to speak to Balaam when he was doing something contrary to God's command.
Many times in my life I have felt so inadequate, fearful of not being "good enough," or not measuring up to a challenge. Gideon, whom God called "a mighty man of God" was cowering in a winepress stomping down his grain, hiding from the Midianites, at the time the angel of the Lord said those words. After Elijah had killed all the prophets of Baal in a mighty show of God's power, he bailed, depressed, afraid, and feeling forsaken, when he learned that Queen Jezebel had a contract out on his life, so to speak. Fear is a natural response to danger and feelings of inadequacy. But God said, "Fear no more!"

I feel that God is personally saying to me, "Linda, get your act together, I need you to do something."  So, that is exactly what I have been trying to do. These are difficult days, with many people sick and afraid. I believe that fear is a greater threat than the virus itself. Fear is exhausting. I believe in caution, but panic is never the correct response, and there has been widespread panic, hoarding, and unnecessary fear.

My daughter has a compromised immune system, so her exposure to anyone is limited routinely. She also has a very limited list of foods she is able to eat. So, imagine how difficult it has been to attempt to find food and chemically free personal items for her at this time. I have had to shop almost every day just to find dry beans, rice, and hydrogen peroxide. Thankfully, the vegetables she can eat have been abundant. Plus, I am making it a point to shop sensibly, rather than hoarding food. Since she lives about 100 miles from me, and only one person in her town is able to help her now, I will have to make the trek more often to ensure she has adequate food on hand. If the lady loses her job, then she has no reason to leave her home to go into town. Life may become more interesting, if that happens. I am also working part-time with two older seniors four days a week, so they are counting on me. Whereas I have always followed safe hygiene practices on the job and as part of my daily routine, the additional safety precautions, plus my daily foraging, have made life more challenging. But it hasn't been all that bad, and I limit public exposure to after hours. Although I have felt the stress, I have been trying to remain cheerful and courteous, and I must say that the people in my neck of the woods have reciprocated in kind. Whereas life is sometimes seemingly not so good, life is still good, we just have to pay attention.

What's our real part of all of this? Well, I'd say prayer. One thing I know and am reminded of each day is that God IS in control. Always. So, we need to stand in prayer together, knowing that this will pass. When Abraham and Moses prayed and cried out to God on behalf of His people, He answered. And He will respond to our prayers as well. This is our call to arms. Pray! Believe! Trust! God is faithful. Always!!