Day 361 Shabbat Shalom Christmas

 

12/27/2025

"The LORD your God in your midst,

the Mighty One, will save;

He will rejoice over you with gladness,

He will quiet you with His love,

He will rejoice over you with singing."

Zephaniah 3:17  

 

For the past few days the music of heaven has drifted into my quiet place, and in the midst of my loneliness my soul has been lifted. Our global calls have been so special the past few days, in spite of all the evil still percolating in the cities and across the world. The warnings are relentless, and I so tire of opening the email each day seeing the headlines of what new tragedies are unfolding in Israel, Europe, or on the streets of America. I think that's why I surround myself with spiritual songs. Earlier today I happened upon a YouTube video by Yuval Arts of the song Above All by Michael W. Smith. This is one of my favorite songs, and he's one of my favorite contemporary artists. He's been around a long time, like me. The song was performed by Hebrew children singing in their native tongue, and at the end the entire children's choir joined in. It was so inspiring. I love to see and hear children praising God, exalting the name of Jesus, especially Messianic Jewish children. Knowing that they have accepted Jesus as Savior brings true joy to my heart, because so many orthodox Jews do not know Him as Messiah. I'm praying that children, who are bolder than adults, will proclaim the Good News!

I also tuned into my Shabbat service with Jacob's Tent. Today it was a prophetic rewind as many in the congregation were sick, so they canceled the local service and did it online instead. I absolutely love the worship and the teaching at my online church in Cleveland, Tennessee. They just moved into a larger, new church so they have much more room for the dancers. I also noticed that the chuppah used for blessing all the children extended across the front, and it was full of parents and children all singing the blessing over their. That warms my heart to see even the older ones under the chuppah. They also sing the blessing over the names and photos of children who have never surrendered their lives to Christ and the prodigals.These are located within a large chest. I have some photos in that chest.

Before Christmas we had the unexpected surprise of the car accident, so being without a vehicle does tend to put a damper on things. Not that I am much of a social butterfly, even on holidays, but I had wanted to do a few things. It just seems as if it takes so long for anyone to do anything these days. But then again, maybe it's for a reason. I have a hard time wondering what good reason it could be, but then...what do I know? So, I ask God to forgive my whining, one more time, and I try to focus on what I can do. It's been kinda chilly today, so I haven't done much. Besides which, this is Shabbat, and I rest today. Now that it's evening, I guess I could do something, but I think I'd rather just continue to enjoy the quiet.

I did watch another Christmas movie this afternoon, Snow Angels, about a family, the parents on the edge of divorce, with three children who go to their new cabin for Christmas, and when they get snowed in they are visited by a family of four who have been snowbound in their travels by the increasing storm, or so they believe. I don't want to ruin the story for anyone, but suffice it to say, this family were the ones who were rescued in the storm. It's a beautiful story of new found friendships, a glimpse at what a loving, caring family should look like, and hospitality and generosity at its best and highest. This is why I love Christmas movies. They generally end well, even if they turn out to be tear jerkers, but then that's to be expected!

I am grieved to say that problems still play on in Israel, and the one hostage remaining still has not been returned. Talik Gvili is the mother of Ran Gvili who remains in Gaza. Although he's been reported as deceased, there seems to be some speculation that he possibly could be alive. I pray that he is returned home soon, as his mother is having a terrible time. Today marks 813 days, and it impossible for her to find peace that she so desperately needs. His dad, Itzik, is having an equally difficult time, and they are seeking our President's help. I pray that whatever needs to be done will be done to bring closure for this family, and the last hostage can be put to rest, his memory a blessing.

Tomorrow is Sunday, and I'm not certain if I'll be able to attend church services, even though the church is right across the highway. It's been so bitterly cold, and I don't feel up to walking. Besides which I may not be totally well, which makes sitting difficult for me. Whatever happens, no worries, as I am always in church whether it be across the street or on the web. Sundays are my second day of rest. I can't change tradition!

It's still fairly early here, but these past few days of not feeling quite "with it" have made me very tired. Perhaps a nice little nap before I have to be on the wall. Saturday nights, late shift, are my on-call duty, so I can't change that. A nice, hot cup of cocoa might be nice before I have to handle Congress on a wing and a prayer, so I'll say goodnight...until tomorrow! 

Day 360 Room in the Inn

 

12/26/2025

"But Mary kept all these things and

pondered them in her heart."

Luke 2:19

 

It's the day after Christmas, but the account of Mary and Joseph never grows dull. The wonder of the birth of the Christ child as foretold throughout scripture, reminds us of the lengths God went to and still goes to make us His own. I was just watching another Christmas classic, The Christmas Candle based on a book by Max Lucado. I have most of his books, and I have this movie, as it's one of my favorite stories. It's about a pastor who once called a miracle man because of his firm stand on the miracle-working power of God, who lost his faith after he suffered a tragedy. When the story begins he is in London, in the streets feeding a line of people down on their luck. He no longer preaches, but after a visit from a special lady who prevails upon him, he accepts a job in her town. It is well-written and presented in movie form. The actors are very convincing, and it is the acting debut of Susan Boyle, the wonderful and talented singer from America's Got Talent. I love it, because as the song goes "There are miracles all around, miracles left to be found." 

The Miracle Hymn

"On a starry night in Bethlehem
A child was born to bring light to men
And our faith wade, our eyes grew dim
In a candle's light, we found hope again

 

There are miracles all around
Miracles yet to be found
Hid in every heart is an answered prayer
Like a candle's flame, hope will lead us there

 

When the darkness comes, let the light shine through
A spark of faith will ignite in you
In a candle's glow, a virgin's womb
In a simple prayer, in the empty tomb

 

There are miracles all around
Miracles yet to be found
Hid in every heart is an answered prayer
Like a candle's flame, hope will lead us there

 

When the light has dawned on Christmas day
We will lift one voice in endless praise
When the light has dawned on Christmas day
We will say

 

There are miracles all around
Miracles here to be found
Hid in every heart is an answered prayer
Like a candle's flame, hope will lead us there" 

I've been listening to a concert by The Belonging Co Christmas at the Ryman with a variety of Christian artists singing older, familiar Christmas hymns with contemporary blends and beautiful new songs. A lady is singing now a medley of Worthy of It All with another song about the birth of Christ which sounds as if Mary, the Mother of Jesus, is singing personally, reminiscent of her song when she visited Elizabeth. 

The Song of Mary

 And Mary said:

“My soul glorifies the Lord
⁴⁷     and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
⁴⁸ for he has been mindful
    of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
⁴⁹     for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
    holy is his name.
⁵⁰ His mercy extends to those who fear him,
    from generation to generation.
⁵¹ He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
    he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
⁵² He has brought down rulers from their thrones
    but has lifted up the humble.
⁵³ He has filled the hungry with good things
    but has sent the rich away empty.
⁵⁴ He has helped his servant Israel,
    remembering to be merciful
⁵⁵ to Abraham and his descendants forever,
    just as he promised our ancestors.”

 Luke 1:46-55

When the shepherds came running to Bethlehem after the angels appeared to them, sharing the wonderful news of the birth of Jesus, Mary listened and marveled at their words, keeping them in her heart. As she looked at Jesus for the first time, how she must have marveled at this new creation, the Son of God, so tiny and in need of her care. The King of glory lying in a manger as a newborn infant, crying and hungry, helpless, and in need of a bath, and He needed "her!" Imagine Joseph's first thoughts when he delivered Jesus. They were alone, no room for them in a proper room in the inn, yet they were surrounded by unseen heavenly visitors marveling at the sight before them, all of heaven rejoicing. The brilliance of the moment must have exploded in the skies! I imagine that the Bethlehem star must have been brilliant that night. How could anyone miss the signs, and yet, they did, and they still do.

When He returns in His glory, will He find room for Him in the inn of our hearts? Is there room in your inn?   

Day 359 The Miracle of Christmas

 

12/25/2025

"For unto us a Child is born, unto us 

a Son is given;..."

Isaiah 9:6

"For God so loved the world that He gave

His only begotten Son...!"

John 3:16

 

Years ago when we first moved to Las Vegas, New Mexico, we purchased an existing Hallmark business as our source of livelihood. Prior to this I loved Hallmark, because the stores were magical to me at the time, as they always seemed to have the best cards and unique gifts. Christmas was particularly festive and fun, full of cheer, and imaginatively arranged on the shelves, merchandised well for ascetic appeal. I would give my parents an ornament for their tree each year before and followed the tradition after we purchased the business. The first year they had a Santa Claus doll who played a special Christmas message if you pushed the button in his hand, "Remember, the magic of Christmas lies in your heart." I always loved what he said, as Christmas has always been magical to me, not in an earthly way, but in the supernatural glory and majesty of God. But now I call it miraculous, because  indeed it is! Just considering what God did...for us! And Jesus did in obedience...for us! The mystery of it all is too wonderful for imagination!

I've heard the stories of Saint Nicholas, and sometimes the story changes, but they all speak of a man with an incredible loving and giving spirit. When my children were growing up, we did tell them the truth, as with the Easter Bunny and Tooth Fairy, but we still managed to have a bit of fun. I've never been a big decorator during the holidays; my life is pretty simple, but I do love to give gifts and see people's reactions when remembered. Each year in November my sister's church puts together the Samaritan Purse's shoe boxes for the children in other countries, and I would love to see the reaction on their faces when they get their boxes with little gifts and clothing. The nursing homes are places where there is a lot of sadness, and some residents seldom receive visits, so once I'm up and running again, I hope to begin visiting the facility near my home. Hopefully, they won't have rules that keep me from visiting.

My son and I enjoyed a quiet Christmas this year. I always love watching Miracle on 34th Street and The Christmas Carol. So far I haven't watched It's a Wonderful Life, plus some of my daughter's favorites. We call it our Christmas tradition. Since she lives in the southwest, and I live in the southeast, we have to plan what to watch and when. Then she watches it there, and I watch it here. It's not the best, but at least we try. If I made a Christmas wish, it would be that we could all be together for Christmas, just like we used to be. It's hard when we lives so far apart. 

We always have a traditional Northern New Mexico meal for Christmas of green chili chicken enchiladas, pinto beans, and rice, with a homemade coconut pie for dessert. It would have been nice to have tamales, but I haven't been able to find anyone who makes them here, and they take a very long time to prepare. Tamales at Christmas is a southwestern favorite, especially in Northern New Mexico, and my friends were experts at the art, and it is an art! Here in Virginia people enjoy ham, and they eat turkey on Thanksgiving, as do most people across cultures. Growing up my papa used to have a smoke house, and I remember the country hams, very salty, but now I really don't like pork, and it's one of those questions I am asking God about. I think my list of questions may be growing. 

Evening is here, everyone has their lights on, and it is festive and bright, but extremely quiet in this old neighborhood. Earlier I saw people walking their dogs, as the weather was warmer today, unlike Christmas weather should be. I dreamed of a white Christmas, but this year I missed out. Still, With God in the midst of our celebration, snow is not needed. The true miracle of Christmas has nothing to do with snow or trees or traditional foods. It has everything to do with the miracle of the virgin birth and the birth of our Savior, the Messiah and soon-coming King. It's about His Kingdom come and His will be done. The bright lights of Christmas are beautiful, but the Light of His glory is so much better and brighter, and it leads the way to eternal life. It won't be for one day either; it is for eternity. 

Day 358 Christmas Eve

 

12/24/2025

 

This morning for our opening song for our prayer meeting in Israel, we enjoyed Hark the Herald Angels Sing/King of Heaven melody with worship leader Paul Baloche, and ended with Chris Tomlin's popular song, Holy Forever (Christmas). The first song has always been one of my favorite songs, but as I was singing the old familiar verses, I realized that I never fully paid attention to what the words were saying. The song written by Charles Wesley in the 1700's speaks of the Savior's birth, but there's more:

"Hark! the herald angels sing, 'Glory to the newborn King; peace on earth, and mercy mild; God and sinners reconciled.' Joyful, all ye nations, rise, join the triumph of the skies; with angelic hosts proclaim, 'Christ is born in Bethlehem!'"

As I re-watch, for the second time this week, The Shepherd, by The Chosen, the scene does not show the angels appearing in the sky, nor do we hear their voices as they sing the all familiar words, "Glory to the newborn King." We do see a great light that shines down from heaven, the song of wind and music and frightened shepherds suddenly leap from the ground and racing towards the city of Bethlehem!

"Christ, by highest heaven adored, Christ, the everlasting Lord; long desired, behold Him come, finding here His humble home. Veiled in flesh the God-head see, hail th' incarnate Deity! Pleased as man with men to dwell, Jesus our Immanuel."  

The shepherds race toward Bethlehem, the crippled young shepherd's leg heals as he runs. He had already encountered Mary and Joseph when he was in the city earlier, when they were looking for a place to rest. He offers her water to relieve her thirst, seeing that she is heavy with child. In the movie, the shepherd had been told by the Pharisee not to return to Bethlehem until he had a spotless lamb to present for sacrifice. The young shepherd had been questioning the Pharisee earlier about what the scriptures say regarding the Messiah's coming to save them, asking him if he is sure that the Savior will come as they believe, because he is reading the scriptures differently - correctly. Apparently, he has shared this with the other shepherds with him, who considered him foolish and laughed at him. Little did they know.

The last verse of the Christ hymn is: 

"Hail the heav'n born Prince of Peace! Hail the Sun of righteousness! Light and life to all He brings, risen with healing in His wings. Mild He lays His glory by, born that man no more may die, born to rise the sons of earth, born to give them second birth."

"Hark! the herald angels sing, 'Glory to the newborn King.'" Amen.  

Notice the words "born that man no more may die, born to rise the sons of earth, born to give them second birth." This speaks of our salvation, being born again when we receive Christ as Savior - buried with Him in baptism to death and rising to new life. I had never noticed the words "born to give them second birth," and I have sang this song so many, many times in my life. "Second birth" is being born again, as Jesus said to Nicodemus when he came to see Jesus under the cloak of night. Every time I read the word, no matter how many times I have read it, new meaning is illuminated to me. It's the same with hymns which are pronouncing the word of the Lord. Always fresh manna in God's word!

Another thing I thought about as we were lighting the last candle for Hanukkah was how brightly the light shined, lighting up the darkness. Each day we added an additional candle to the Hanukkiah, the light was brighter.  With the additional of the 9th candle, known as the "helper candle," or the one that provides the light for each candle, it was brighter still. The "helper" candle is known as the "Shamash" which is Hebrew for "servant" or "attendant." The miracle of the oil reminds me of how oil represents the anointing of Holy Spirit to the born-again believer. Jesus said when He left this world to return to God, He would send the "Helper" to the Apostles, and Holy Spirit would draw all men to Christ, who is the Light of the world. It just seemed to "fit" to me. The scriptures speak of a time when there will no longer be Jews and Gentiles (non-Jewish believers), but we will be One New Man as spoken of in Ephesians. I can hard wait for the fulfillment of all God has for us! 

This Christmas Eve as we await Christmas morn to celebrate the birth of our Savior, let us be lights that shine in the darkness for all the world to see! Merry Christmas!

Day 357 Before You

 

12/23/2025

 "You did not choose Me, but I chose you...."

John 15:16

 

When I'm sitting here at my computer, generally later in the evening, closer to being the next morning, I write about my day, and I look through images to post that seem appropriate, to me at least, to represent what I'm thinking. Now I don't know if a word of that statement made any sense to the casual reader, but it is significant in that I want the others to think deeply about what I post - every word that's written, and how I may be feeling as I'm bearing my soul. Words matter, and I don't like wasting my breath, or my thoughts, and it requires much emotional strength to share as I do. Again, it may not make sense, but such as it is, I've said it.

I'm listening to music, as I generally do, as I'm writing. Tonight I'm enjoying Jewish Hanukkah tunes, with almost a gypsy-like quality as the instruments are played. It reminds me of a Johnny Depp movie about a woman who made chocolate - Chocolat - in which he played a gypsy. The music's relaxing, calm, but not quite what I would have expected for the Festival of Lights. Still, it is somewhat contemplative, nostalgic.

Christmas will be here in two more days, well not even that long, as we are almost entering the start of the new day. Tomorrow I'll be baking pies, if all goes well. This morning I woke up not feeling quite myself. I can't seem to get it through my head that I'm older now, and my body doesn't move as easily as it once did. I have always been wiry, and although I still am to a large degree, but when I stretch, it does not always bring the same relief it once did. One wrong zig or zag can easily pull my aging parts the wrong way. Alas, I am meant to learn the hard way, I imagine. Some things never quite change. My mama used to say that "hard heads made soft butts," and she made sure that I got her meaning! It wasn't that I was a bad child or a particularly mischievous one, but I was curious, and I asked too many questions. Remember the old adage - "Children are seen and not heard?" I guess I never quite got it, until I got it! 

Today Pastor Jack began our day with a look at John 15:16 in which Jesus is speaking to His disciples saying: "You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you." Jesus wanted His followers, which include those of us non-Jews who believe and follow Him, that He specifically hand-picked for the work they had been assigned to do, to understand that they were set apart for His special work. The proof that they, and we, belong to Him is in the fruit we bear and show and share with the world. He tells us in the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5 that we are to be lights to the world, and we are not to conceal the light, but rather we are to shine brightly for all the world to see - a city on a hill that cannot be hidden. In Tolkien's Lord of the Rings classic, when one settlement in Middle Earth needed help from enemy attack, they would light a fire that would shine across the country, each settlement responding. They would each alert the other, then gathering their troops would answer the call of their neighboring settlements who needed them. So we are to be those lights blazing a message of hope across the earth, each city responding in kind to reach a lost world. Jesus IS th e Light of the World. Sadly, He was not received as Messiah by the people, but they could never extinguish His Light. We are to be the light bearers carrying His message to the world. Across the world, many who have chosen to follow Christ, leaving behind doctrines of men and devils, are now forfeiting their lives and their families' lives. Jesus warned us of this happening, and He called it the beginning of woes (Matthew 24:8).

In the fifteenth chapter of the book of John, Jesus as the True Vine speaks of the relationship He desires to have with His followers, as He has with His Father who sent Him. In verses 7-8 of chapter 15 Jesus says: "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit, so you will be My disciples." I can well imagine that this conversation, like the others, probably went right over the apostles' heads, as Jesus sharing becomes more intense. He follows with how the world would hate them and persecute them, as they do Him. Not easy words to hear. And soon they would understand completely what He meant by these words about the huge cost of discipleship, following Him, sharing the message of the Kingdom of God.

Today I was listening to Russell Brand speaking at the AmFest 2025 for Turning Point USA. He was sharing his testimony, preaching the gospel message with every word in his expressive manner of speech. Before he started to speak, he got down on his knees on the stage and prayed, asking God to guard his speech. He always prays before he speaks before an audience. When he finished praying, he stood and began his speech with praise to God for turning his life around. I love his enthusiasm, and although he still has a few rough edges, without filters, without apology, he exalts God, speaks the truth as it is written in the word of God, exhorting others to cease from foolish disagreements and live in harmony. It is rather refreshing to see and hear him, and I hope his message rang true and clear and that it provoked change in hearts where change is needed. I wonder if Charlie Kirk was looking down from Heaven with Jesus at his side?! Somehow I doubt it, or else he may not be at rest and peace watching some of the actions of others who also spoke at the event. Life can be so predictable. The point is Jesus looks for fruit in everything we do as proof that we are living for Him and for our love towards one another. Not feigned, but true. Forgiving each other, as men will fail. The good fruit comes when we admit wrongs and pull ourselves up again, repenting, asking forgiveness, and moving forward for Christ.

Russell was sharing about his Hollywood lifestyle before Jesus, comparing it to after He met Jesus and how his life had turned completely around. The point where he was sold out for Jesus, and he knew that before He met Jesus, his life had not meaning. Now it does! His purpose has been revealed. That is the life Jesus wants when He says to bear fruit. It's the power of the transformed life.

My desire is the same, to make everyone know how wonderful Jesus is. I don't have a "following," and my only platform is Facebook, writing my blogs, and declaring His name to all I meet along the way. Honestly, I don't even know who reads my posts, and I promised myself that it wouldn't matter, except that I trust God with the increase. Like Russell, my life was void of true life when I was younger, although I sincerely tried to separate myself from wrong influences. I went to church, loved to sing, loved revivals, but it wasn't until much later that I began to truly see and understand all Christ had done for me personally. And it was only after my life was a wreck that I fully blossomed. Now, in retrospect, I can say that before Him, my life was empty. Now with Him, my life is full. I may be alone, with limited friends here, no real connection to church locally - yet, but I will continue to share the good news with all. Alone we can do nothing. With Him, all things are possible.

Day 356 What Shall I Do?

 

12/22/2025

"If you lives to be a hundred, I want to live to be

a hundred minus one day, so that I never

has to live without you."

Winnie the Pooh

 

Feeling somewhat mischievous I asked Google a question: "At the age of 75 I want to do something extraordinary with my life, what should I do?" Quite honestly, I didn't think Google capable of giving me an answer, but I was somewhat surprised, considering the way AI is going these days, attempting to take  over the thinking part for human beings. Think about that word "human beings." Thinking about an artificial intelligence mechanism doing my thinking is pretty bizarre and frightening. Civilization must advance and yet at what cost?

The response I received in part was:

"At 75, doing something extraordinary means finding deep fulfillment by blending your passions with purpose: mentor someone with your life skills, learn something new (language, instrument, art) to keep your brain sharp, travel adventurously, or create a legacy through writing/art, all while prioritizing community, physical health, and mindful presence to truly savor each moment."  

I must say that response was unexpected, however, it was also thought worthy. I actually have mentored someone, but it was many years ago when I was much younger. I taught a young teenage mother of two, pregnant with the third how to design arts and crafts to sell to support her children, while trying to help her understand that her choices were not the best. She learned artistic skills very well, but as for the life skills, of that I am uncertain. 

I do desire to learn to speak Hebrew so I can be ready when Christ returns to establish His kingdom on earth. More than that though, I want to learn to speak the language of the people and nation I love. But then, I love a great many people, all in fact, so I could spend the remainder of my years learning how to speak up for others in their native tongue. Thought worthy in fact. I have been brushing up on my Spanish, so that I can once more speak fluently and write the same, yet I am seeing that the words are different from when I learned how to speak in my earlier years. Still, I have accomplished my goal of sentence structure, with the hope that once more I can be called upon to translate. Surprisingly I have used my skills in translation of a usage manual for a piece of medical equipment when I was 18 years old. And when I was a case manager, I had Spanish-speaking only clients, who always seemed to understand what I was asking. Perhaps one day that skill will be useful again.

I keep my brain sharp by reading, playing Spider Solitaire and other games that keep my mind active and competitive. I used to be so good at spelling, but it seems as if the last blow to my head has caused some learning defects that I am trying to correct. The noise in my head from the accident is a deterrent, but I am tenacious, and I will not give up the challenge and the struggle. Things could be much worse, and I do well to remind myself of that fact! I am grateful for the ability to move past these hindrances in life, as I have had so many. Finally, I am learning how to bring my mind into the restful peace that God intends we as believers should demonstrate. We have the Prince of Peace as our companion, so we must furiously contend for the faith.

Travel adventurously! Now that's something I would love to do, but I simply do not have the funds to put into active travel, plus I have new home responsibilities that prevent me from going far away at this time. But one day...perhaps. Depending on Christ's return and how He wants me to spend the remainder of the years He has given me. The scriptures say: "So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom." (Psalm 90:12). 

The final piece of advice is to create a legacy through writing and art. The fact that I am still pounding out daily blogs on this the 356th day of 2025 must be proof that I am trying with all my heart to "write the story," although finding the message in the story has been difficult for me at times. Some days the thoughts and words flow, and other days I am stuck in that same ole miry clay. I am somewhat skeptical of my writing abilities, while my greatest literary mentor decided to pass from this life to the next. She wasn't a writer, but she greatly encouraged me to follow God's commands to do so. 

So in conclusion the Google AI or search engine was helpful in telling me everything I already knew or tried. And I imagine it was a bit of encouragement to me to understand that while I may feel as if my life is somewhat dull and without merit, perhaps that's not definitively true. I'll think about it more tomorrow, as Scarlett O'Hara so aptly responded to questions she had no intention in answering. But then, I'm not Scarlett! So until the next day, I leave you with this wise saying:

   

Day 355 My Soul Magnifies the Lord!

 

12/21/2025

 "My beloved is mine, 

and I am His."

Song of Solomon 2:16

 

Tonight I was watching The Shepherd and The Messengers on The Chosen app again, and it really touched my heart seeing the younger Mary giving birth to Jesus, then listening to the older Mary as she recalled the words she had hidden in her heart for so long. She was speaking to Mary of Magdalena who had come to visit her, both hiding out for their protection years after the crucifixion of Jesus. It is a very heart warming, soul wrenching scene listening to the two Marys discuss such poignant events. This morning as I was writing in my journal, I wrote the words "Who am I?" as if I was answering a question posed to me by another. The very first words I wrote were "I am my Beloved's, and He is mine!" Then I continued writing down the words that came to my mind:  "I am a born-again, blood-washed child of the Living God; The joy of the Lord is my strength; My citizenship is in Heaven; My allegiance is to God, family, nation; This is my Father's world!" I was imagining that someone was asking me things about myself, and this spontaneous flow of verses and feelings came out of me. 

Later, after listening to the Sunday message by Jack Hibbs, I tuned into his morning devotional that I had missed earlier, and the verse we were praying about today was from Song of Solomon 2:16. It's as if Jack was reading my mind. He began to speak of our identity in Christ as Christians. He explained that this Book of the Bible was intended as a look at the relationship between a husband and a wife, where the commitment to each other is sold-out surrender. This can also be compared to our relationship with Jesus as the Bride of Christ. I remember so clearly sitting at my table in the dining room of my home in Northern New Mexico one cold morning, when I was struggling with loneliness and uncertainty, not knowing what I needed to do, praying for wisdom, and I began to write the same sort of question. This time the question was: "Where do I belong?" The words were hardly on the paper when I heard very clearly, "You belong to Me!" Over the years I have remembered this time over and over, gaining reassurance that I am not alone and that I am loved. This season of the year is hard for me, as it is for so many who have lost loved ones during this time, but it is also a great time of recalling the faithfulness of God. Memories are bittersweet, somewhat pained, but always treasured.

Psalm 146 speaks of the praiseworthiness of the Lord and the importance of true worship. My devotional today shared: "Worship is not simply part of the Christian life, it is the Christian life." Understanding this, let's consider Psalm 146:

"Praise the Lord! Yes, really praise Him! I will praise Him as long as I live, yes, even with my dying breath. Don't look to men for help; their greatest leaders fail; for every man must die. His breathing stops, life ends, and in a moment all he planned for himself is ended. But happy is the man who has the God of Jacob as his helper, whose hope is in the Lord his God - the God who made both earth and heaven, the seas and everything in them. He is the God who keeps every promise, and gives justice to the poor and oppressed, and food to the hungry. He frees the prisoners, and opens the eyes of the blind; he lifts the burdens from those bent down beneath heir loads. For the Lord loves good men. He protects the immigrants, and cares for the orphans and widows. But he turns topsy-turvy the plans of the wicked. The Lord will reign forever.  Jerusalem, your God is King in every generation! Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!"

These words are worthy to be considered over and over, and the response is that which the psalmist wrote about - "Praise the Lord! Yes, really praise Him!" In times of uncertainty, or in times of need, we look to the one who always has the answers and whose closeness is only a prayer...a praise away! How great is Thy faithfulness, O Lord! "My soul does magnify the Lord" - words spoken so long ago, by a frightened teenager who was given the best gift anyone could have! She was gifted with the life of our Savior. The Light of the world who came to save His people from their sins. Afterwards, He shared the gift of eternal life with Gentiles who loved and believed. What a wonderful gift! What a marvelous King!

Day 354 Entertaining Strangers

 

12/20/2025

"Hospitality is the art of making people

want to stay without interfering

with their departure."

Daily Walk

 

The English word for "hospital" comes from the Latin word meaning "guest room." The word hospitality is derived from this word, so in essence extending hospitality to a guest in your home means that guest is being hospitalized. Hospitality extended to people is "others-oriented," which is Christianity at its best, but sadly it has become a lost art. Today's culture is very self-oriented, and people do not make themselves available as they used to do. Hebrews 13:1-2 exhorts us: "Let brotherly love continue. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some have unwittingly entertained angels."

My thoughts drift back to times we have housed visitors in our home, when we were young and my parents were still living. I remember very well how giving and loving my mother always had been towards others. My daddy as well. There was a man who lived in the woods, alone I am assuming, who had questionable mental capabilities. We were always warned to keep the doors locked just in case he'd stop by the house, as he often did, and daddy may not be home. Daddy picked him up if he was walking on the highway many times when we were with him, and I was never frightened. He didn't always smell very good, but I liked him, and he seemed a pleasant fellow. As I got older I often wondered what happened to him, but I failed to ask my parents. So many things I wish I had asked them. I taught that same art of hospitality to my children, and I pray that it never becomes a lost art with them. The world is so different now, even in this small little area, but I have hope still. Perhaps that's why I'm here. I know that God is teaching me something during this waiting period. Some days it is more difficult as I endure the mood swings my son struggles with on a daily basis. His memory seems clouded, and he seems so burdened and sad. I know that loneliness sets in. I understand these feelings, and I know they are very real and raw, but the joy of the Lord does indeed strengthen me. I know how to pull my way out of the clutches of the enemy, but others seem so blinded to the darkness he tries to bring. But, I will continue to look into the Light of God's countenance and behold the wonder of His glory. There is no better way than Jesus. If I could only persuade others of this fact. Soon, very soon, it will be different.  

I'm enjoying a little entertainment this evening, watching Scrooge with Albert Finney produced in 1970. I love seeing how old Scrooge is transformed into a much better human being after he is visited by the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and yet to be. I wonder if all the disagreeable, unhappy lot of present day mankind might have a transformation and total change of heart if they were paid a visit by this threesome. It's something to think about. I believe watching movies of faithful traditions like this one would brighten up the most dour soul.

When I become discouraged I don't have far to look to see reminders of the wonders of my Lord and my King. Not long ago my daughter sent me a post that had the words "Happiness, Gratitude, Balance" with each word written vertically down the page, each consecutively written in darker ink. Perhaps God wanted me to see the bold letters of the word "Balance," so I would learn to step back and reconsider all the events of my day that are becoming burdensome, so that cannot be of God. There is peace when God orchestrates our days and schedules.

The candles for the final evening of Hanukkah have flickered out, and the light of Christmas draws closer. The setting sun alerted my neighbor to light up the night with his string of Christmas lights around his home. It is quiet on this Sunday evening as many lounge in their homes, enjoying the remainder of their weekend, not all ready for the morning alarm for work. The bite of winter is officially starting tomorrow, and the chill of the evening temperatures seem to announce the approach of bitterly colder weather. I haven't seen my semi-feral cat, Alex, in a couple of days, so he must be snuggled up in his second home within the neighborhood. I feel a little jealous that someone else may be loving him also, when I should be thankful that there is someone else who cares for the rascal who insists on living free. Lord, please watch over my little feline friend and all others who may not have proper homes. They are welcome here.

Until tomorrow, covers pulled up, nestled and snug in my bed, I'll say good night to all. Shalom.  

Day 353 Christmas Light

 

12/19/2025

"It takes light to find light."

Daily Walk

"For with You is the fountain of life;

In Your light we see light."

Psalm 36:9

 

It's the seventh evening of Hanukkah, and the lights are brightly shining for all the world to see. I have a neighbor, a retired military man, who keeps his Christmas lights up all year around, and every evening I anxiously await the darkness so I can see his lights. I've never been one to hang lights outside, mostly because I didn't want the additional expense on my electricity bill. I love those icicle lights that go along the roof and dangle down. I have always wanted to put those around my roof, but until I bought this home, I never had my own roof to hang them on. Maybe once I have my new roof, I can celebrate by hanging lights. Seems like a reasonable thing to do. The holly bushes are half hacked away from the blight that invaded the tree. I'm still trying to prune away the death. I can't decide whether to cut them all down and wait for total regrowth, or to leave the survivors alone. It looks rather pitiful at the present time, but it broke my heart when I had to remove the diseased parts. These are the times I need my parents to instruct me. I haven't been in my own home since I was first married, but we sold it to move to New Mexico, and then my whole world changed. But, that's life, even the sadness. Looking back though, it's been a period of great personal and spiritual growth for me. God truly does work things out for the good when we love Him, and when we are called according to His purpose and not our own. Regardless of what is going on, or what is not going on, I am going to keep my focus on Him.

This morning Pastor Jack shared from 2 Corinthians 6:17-18:

"Therefore 'Come out from among them and be separate,' says the Lord. 'Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you. I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters,' says the LORD Almighty." 

This goes along with my personal reading of 1 John 1:5-7:

"This is the message God has given us to pass on to you: that God is Light and in Him is not darkness at all. So if we say we are His friends, but go on living in spiritual darkness and sin, we are lying. But if we are living in the light of God's presence, just as Christ does, then we have wonderful fellowship and joy with each other, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from every sin."

I can't think of a better time of the year to talk about light in the darkness, the light of Jesus Christ, because He is the Light. I receive prayer requests from all over this world on a daily basis, and at times the weight of it can be overwhelming, and I have to shut down for a few hours just to recoup. Some people never seem to be affected by the sadness in the world, the heartbreaks. Today I received a phone message from an elder of a church here thanking those who had taken tags from the Angel Tree at church with requests for Christmas, so that the families going through hard times in the area could enjoy Christmas. That always brightens my day, because I love to fulfill someone's Christmas wish if it's within my power to do so. 1 John 3:17-18 reminds us: "But if someone who is supposed to be a Christian has money enough to live well, and sees a brother in need, and won't help him - how can God's love be within him? Little children, let us stop just saying we love people; let us really love them, and show it by our actions." 

Stern words coming from John the Apostle, but the tone of his entire book is so loving and kind, patient yet eager to exhort and encourage, so we can live the life we are called to live as followers of Christ who is the Light of the World. 

I remember when things were so tight in my family financially, but we managed to always make things festive. I remember days of popcorn garlands and construction paper ornaments. A nice shiny star made from aluminum foil. When I was pulling out ornaments for my mama's little tabletop tree, I found some precious memories amidst others. Each of my children made paper bells with their school photo glued inside when in elementary school. There was a paper angel with my daughter's face cut from her school photo glued on as the angel. Styrofoam trees and a gingerbread man with half his styrofoam leg missing from all the love all these years. I have a Snoopy made from toilet paper and black magic marker for the ears and eyes, and other fun creatures happily dangling from my little tree. How I love to remember when my children were still little, and laughter filled the home. Things are different now, but I make sure that even when I'm alone, I laugh, and I remember the fun times. Although we feel sadness due to the loss of our loved ones who are no longer here to share the happiness, we can still remember those days of family get togethers and cousins exchanging gifts. One year my sister and our younger cousin were responsible for wrapping the gifts, and one male cousin got a girl's slip by mistake. He didn't complain which is true to his nature, but I can't remember how it turned out. I'll have to ask him the next time I see him.

I've missed a lot from all the years of living in New Mexico, so I have much catching up to do. My family has dwindled down, as happens when we grow older, but we still have our quarterly lunches with my high school chums. That in itself is quite remarkable that we remained friends and in touch over all these years. Many have passed away, but it's still nice just to spend a little time together catching up. Most of my school friends never left the area or migrated back, as I did. Interesting that no matter how near or far, we always manage to connect. 

How I wish everyone's lives could be this simple and that people would value life more, value friendships more. Then perhaps there wouldn't be as much discord and hatred in the world. King David expressed the beauty of the blessed unity of the people of God in Psalm 133:

"Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious oil upon the head, running down on the beard. The beard of Aaron, running down on the edge of his garments. It is like the dew of Hermon, descending upon the mountains of Zion; for there the LORD commanded the blessing - life forevermore." 

Selah.

Day 352 Do You Hunger?

 

12/18/2025

"...and when he saw them, he ran from the tent door

to meet them, and bowed himself to the ground,

and said, 'My Lord, if I have found favor in Your sight,

do not pass on by Your servant.'"

Genesis 18:2-3

 

Abraham was almost one hundred years of age, sitting in the tent door in the heat of the day, the Bible says, when he sees three men approaching from up the road. I've never been in Israel to experience their summer heat, but I have lived in some and visited some places where the heat is so consuming that, if I were Abraham's age, would make me rethink where I'd want to be seated at the height of the sun's intensity dressed in a coarse garment that fits to the ground. I'd probably be in the closest watering hole with the animals vying for first place to sit in the coolness of the stream. Sarah was probably sweltering inside the tent, kneading out the daily loaf of bread or busy about some domestic task that never lessens. She was nearing 90 herself, and the promise made to Abraham in Genesis 12 when he was 75, and again in Chapters 13, 16, and 17, to make him the father of nations, had not produced one child, except for Ishmael through Sarah's servant Hagar, when Sarah decided to help the promise along. That didn't work out then, and it hasn't worked well up to our present day. Time was running out, she no doubt may have considered. But in the fullness of His - God's - timing, along came three men walking down the road twenty-five years later.

Abraham welcomes his visitors, offering water to wash their feet, inviting them to sit down under the shade of the tree while he brings them some refreshments. So, again, Abraham hurries inside the tent to ask Sarah to quickly prepare bread and make cakes, then he runs to the herds where he selects a calf, giving it to his young man with the words to hasten to prepare it. Next, Abraham takes milk and butter and sets it before them with the rest of the food. That's a lot of rushing around in the heat of the day, don't you think? Nonetheless, the visitors eat heartily, and then during the meal as they shared, the promise of an offspring through Sarah is mentioned again. Sarah was listening from the tent, and she giggled at the thought of this idea, considering her age and that of Abraham. But the angel of the Lord responded, "Is anything too hard for the LORD?" (Genesis 18:14), then announcing that at the appointed time he would return to her, and Sarah would have a son. As I've mentioned previously in my writings, God always does things in His time, not ours.

Two of the three men rise and begin to walk down the road towards Sodom and Gomorrah, at this point of the story, and Abraham walks with the angel of the LORD, sending them on their way. The scripture says that the LORD said, "Shall I hide from Abraham what I am doing...." (Genesis 18:17). This is where Abraham has been given the inside scoop on Sodom and Gomorrah, and Abraham is able to bargain with the LORD regarding rescuing his nephew Lot who dwells in Sodom. And, my friends, the rest is history, Judeo-Christianity history that includes salvation to the Jews first and then the Gentiles. But I don't want to focus on this part of the story, but on the former. Abraham and Sarah were both rewarded for their faith, but what is clearly revealed in the initial portion of this scripture is Abraham's vitality and hunger for God. He didn't just idle through life, lazily awaiting his breakthrough, he was busy running around, excited, eager to reach out to strangers. He didn't walk, he ran! From the moment God asked Abraham to move away from his home, going to a place he knew not, Abraham followed God with obedience. He had such a deep hunger for those things that pleased His heavenly Father.

This story causes me to examine my position in Christ in awaiting His return and what follows. I am anxiously awaiting His return with a deep, deep, insatiable hunger and thirst for righteousness' sake. Please illuminate our paths, dear Lord, so that we will be found faithful when You come. 

 I BOW

by Bethel 

 

 [Verse 1]
Where would I run                                                                                                                                       But to the throne of mercy
Where would I kneel
But at this cross of grace
How great the love
How strong the hand that holds us
Beautiful, so beautiful

[Chorus]
So here, I bow, to lift You high
Jesus, be glorified
In all things, for all my life
I am Yours, forever Yours

 [Verse 2]
There is a King
Who bore the scars of healing
There is a Son
Who came in grace and truth
How great the love
That carries us to kindness
Wonderful, You’re wonderful

[Chorus]
So here, I bow, to lift You high
Jesus, be glorified
In all things, for all my life
I am Yours, forever Yours

[Bridge]
God here, and now, be lifted high
Right here, and now, be glorified
God of heaven and earth
God who brought me back to life
I am Yours, forever Yours
God here, and now, be lifted high
Right here, and now, be glorified
God of heaven and earth
God who brought me back to life
I am Yours, forever Yours

[Chorus]
So here, I bow, to lift You high
Jesus, be glorified
In all things, for all my life
I am Yours, forever Yours

[Outro]
So here, I bow, to lift You high
Jesus, be glorified
In all things, and for all my life
I am Yours, forever Yours ...

Day 351 Valued

 

12/17/2025

"...because you did not know the time of your visitation."

Luke 19:44

"Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision!

For the day of the LORD is near in the

valley of decision."

Joel 3:14

 

Recently I received a notice from Google that my email account was at 70% capacity, that means I was running out of storage space. I had been saving articles from the Christian new sources along with other information, filing it "for later," as I initially had every reason to believe that I'd have time to read it at a later time. Well, with the increase in the amount of emails I receive in a day massively piling up, the filing away for later has been taking up too much space. Now, I am going back and systematically deleting the majority of those I saved for another day. There will never come another day, and if I do need to know something, I can check the archives on the ministry sites. Gone are the days of filing away endless stacks of information that I probably won't need, as time changes everything. I have become quite the clutter bug! 

My life has been a bit topsy-turvy lately with so many things happening and the world colliding in the attempt to bring restoration and lasting change. It's a very sad thing to watch the change in people's lives, especially when it relates to those who used to follow Christ. I am experiencing once more the effects of a people who do not concern themselves with the needs of their fellow man. Being in the fix I am now without a car, relying on the kindness of others, opened my eyes to many things. Answering questions regarding the true meaning of Christmas with the Harvest online community, and examining my own thoughts about what Christmas should look like also gave me pause in considering the condition of our churches today. I have become quite disheartened when I watch what is actually happening versus the response of the church at large. We are very far from the church written about in the book of Acts, our "go and do likewise" admonition from the Lord. In chapter six of the book of Acts, the church is growing, increasing daily, but problems arise between the Hebrew Jews and the Greek-speaking Jewish regarding the daily food distribution to the widows. The apostles chose seven men of faith who could handle this need and other service ministries while they devoted themselves to studying and teaching the word. In some of our larger churches today, duties are delegated to deacons or other leaders within the church to handle these matters so that the pastor can devote himself to feeding the flock spiritually. Sadly, this sharing of duties is no longer working well in the churches, or at least I'm not seeing it, or experiencing the support. In fact I feel pretty forgotten. No one even followed up with me after my initial call for prayer. Why is that? Is that asking too much? Or am I asking the church to be the church Jesus wanted us to be where when one member suffers, so does the rest.  

"For the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ....And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it." (1 Corinthians 12:12, 26).

Maybe I'm an old fuddy-duddy who is unfashionable in our busy society today. The point I am attempting to make doesn't really have anything to do with my small needs, rather, it happens to relate to the state of the churches in total today and how they are turning a blind eye to the things Jesus felt strongly about and fought to see changed. His Kingdom was not a military one, but His Kingdom was of heaven come down to earth to seek and save those who are lost kingdom where loving God and loving our neighbor was the message. It was about walking alongside of those who needed it. The lesser ones. The ones you help knowing they have nothing to give in return other than their "thank you." Since this is the Christmas season, I imagine in everyone's busyness, no one has time to help, because they are preoccupied with getting everything ready for their festivities, while those in need simply wait and watch, peeking in the windows while we gorge ourselves, hoping someone will place the leftovers in the outside trash bin.

In the grander scheme of things that's what has been happening in Israel, the promised land God gave to His people. The rise in antisemitism has grown so much, and evil fills the streets. Yesterday I mentioned the Bondi Beach incident and others, where churches remain silent. Thankfully, God sent a rescuer, a Muslim gentleman, who loves Israel, the Jewish people, Christians and all mankind, because he desires to live in peace. Ahmed Al Ahmed was born in Syria, but he is unique in his love for all people, especially today. His remarkable courage demonstrates this love. In the process of saving lives, he suffered wounds in his arm, and he has been hospitalized and has undergone surgery. When asked if he'd do it again, he was quick to respond by saying, "yes." So far church leaders have not risen up to say enough is enough. They hide safely behind their pulpits perhaps mentioning it briefly, and then it's pushed to the side, just as the 10/7/2023 massacre faded out of sight. Unless it affects someone in the local body, it eventually is forgotten. I can't forget. I won't look away. I would like to know how a nation that says it is a Christian nation allows people in office who spout hatred daily provoking violence, who finance and organize these hate demonstrations, and those who are not loyal to this country and who definitely do not stand with Israel. If we truly are a Christian nation, why is everyone overlooking what God says about His people throughout the Bible? 

I have been invited to Israel several times, by different ministries, but it is not so much that I cannot afford the trip, as it is with the response God gave me when I asked Him, "Should I go?" I heard His response, and it is "No." He reminded me of why I am here in Virginia, and He also reminded me that I was born in the nation of America. As His watchman on the wall, this is my area of service. Perhaps that's why I have been grounded for now, at the busiest time of the year?! It definitely isn't because I love to shop and buy stuff just to give stuff to people. No, that's not how I'm made. Long ago God taught me the value of knowing the difference between what I need and what I desire. I've had my days of comforting myself in a mound of stuffed animals and what basically amounts to a lot of clutter. Thankfully, emergency services has been gifted with many plush toys to give to children in crisis and to shelters for the same need. I still have some special stuffy friends, memories to hold tightly to when I am troubled and need a hug. 

On the Wednesday night Fire Power with Mario Murillo and Todd Coconato, Mario was speaking about the call to move out of our comfort zones and be part of the solution, as the fields are ripe with harvest with Generation Z kids who want truth, transparency, guidance in the word, line by line, book by book, just like I love it. The only way to teach. He spoke of honesty in social media and the testimonies of "great men" versus the testimonies of Russell Brand, Brandon Lake, and Jelly Roll. I am inclined to agree with him. Their Fire Power spot on Wednesday on YouTube are well worth the wait, plus they only tell the truth based on God's word, not the whim or opinion of man! The watered down word is not needed or wanted by these kids, and we older followers of Christ don't want to hear it either. I don't care if a church has a spiritual gifts and prophesy group. As Billy Graham said, "Stick to the Book!"

 

Day 350 Forgive Us

 

12/16/2012

"I will bless those who bless you,

and I will curse him who curses you; 

and in you all the families of the 

earth shall be blessed."

Genesis 12:3

  

Over the past few days I have been horrified and deeply distressed over the news concerning the heartless murder of innocent people enjoying the first night of Hanukkah on the Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia by two men, a father and his son, who were allegedly trained prior to this tragedy in how to carry out this terrorist attack on Jewish citizens. A group of 1,000 were gathered for this celebration that thankfully more slaughter was avoided by the heroic efforts of a man who heard the noise and rushed to see what was happening. Last count there were 16 deaths, including a ten year old little girl, Matilda, with many still in critical condition in the hospital fighting for their lives. 

It is my understanding that a home in California was riddled with 20 rounds by a drive by shooter when Hanukkah lights and celebration were noticed in a neighborhood. 

Prior to that, again in our own country a man walks into a classroom at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, murdering a Jewish teacher in her class on Judaic studies. Two people were killed and nine injured in this antisemitic cruelty.

Each day a new tragedy seems to unfold in one area of our world or another. In our own streets violence has been ongoing for quite some time, thanks to open borders encouraging evil to be welcomed putting all lives in jeopardy. Voters have elected antisemitic and anti-Christian leaders into office, but this doesn't surprise me as there has been similar action over the years with the wholesale slaughter of unborn and new born children, who, if they survive the abortion attempt, are allowed to lie defenseless and unattended until the doctor and mother decide if they want to keep the child, or if they just want to murder the child outright in even colder blood. This is ironic in a culture that seems to care more about animal cruelty than the sanctity of human life. Plus, worse actions are being allowed in our One Nation Under God country. Tell me, where are the Bible teaching, Christ following believers? Where are the pastors who are educating their flock? 

While I care about all lives, at this time I want to address the rising hatred of antisemitism that is being allowed in our nation. More specifically I wonder what it will take for the church to wake up and stand up for Israel. The church has been silent about Israel period! The massacre on October 7, 2023, was mentioned but a brief period of time. I made efforts to connect certain churches in my area with my contacts in the American branch of the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ) to visit their churches to educate the pastors and congregations regarding the error of Replacement Theology (supersessionism) being taught in the church and theological seminaries. This teaching suggests that the Church has replaced Israel as God's chosen people, inheriting all its promises, suggesting that the New Covenant of Christ replaces the Old. This deception is clearly shown as false by reading Chapters 9 - 11 of Romans, written by Paul the Apostle to the Gentiles, appointed by Jesus Himself. Sadly, the church did not respond.

Recently in our ICEJ prayer calls, discussing the rise of antisemitism and the root of the origin going back 1700 years to the First Council in Nicaea in 325 AD, the speaker stated: "If you are not supporting Israel, you do not know God." I wholehearted agree with this sentiment. I cannot understand how seemingly educated men and women of God can be so ignorant when it comes to our Hebraic roots as Christ-followers. The first thing I love to point out to the ignorant is that "Jesus Christ is the King of the Jews, because He is a Jew!" The entire Bible that we claim as our own was written by the Jewish prophets, apostles, and teachers. We owe the people of Israel a huge debt of gratitude, and we owe everything to God Almighty and our Lord Jesus Christ for allowing us - Gentile born again believers in Jesus Christ - to be grafted into the family of God where we are now permitted to be called sons and daughters of the most high God with privileges. I feel very grateful, humbled beyond any imagining, to be grafted into the vine of Christ who the Living Vine! The same Jesus who CHOSE to leave heaven and come to earth as a newborn baby in the worse of circumstances, just so He could grow up faced with every insult, injury, and horrible treatment so He could obey His Father and die the death of a despised criminal on a cross. I am appalled that the entire truth regarding Jesus is being conveniently removed by pastors and teachers. Does anyone ever think about the heartbreak we cause God when we deny His Son and HIS Chosen People? He never denied them, and all through the Old Testament God made that truth extremely clear. There has and there always will be a remnant, and that includes a remnant of truth-seeking Gentile believers. 

Am I angry - I'd say so, but more than that, I am disappointed and ashamed. Each day I repent for these sins, beginning with my own in not being able to educate and help people understand, and as I repent corporately for the Church, the collective Church, who say they follow Christ, but all the while are following their own beliefs. May God have mercy on our souls. In this season recognizing the birth of our Dear Savior, what will it take to awaken the Church? Will we continue to remain ignorant of what the Bible says? Will we continue to vote in leaders who are anti-Israel, anti-God, anti-anything that is pure and godly? How long will the Christians choose to not vote, or not speak out? I am so tired of friends telling me they admire what I am doing when they at least could make a phone call or sign a letter or dole out a dollar toward the support of American Jewish families whose husbands are fighting for Israel? I would like to think that American citizens living elsewhere with dual-citizenship would rush to this country's aid should an attack of that magnitude occur on American soil. And it could with the rise of Muslims taking over our cities, eventually with Sharia Law or with drug cartel fighting back. This is what certain lawmakers have been hoping to achieve through their unlawful acts in our cities. Is anyone listening? This is America, and many heroes have shed their blood to ensure we remain safe here in our country, our Sovereign nation, just like Israel.

So before anyone reading this comments or makes crude remarks, educate yourself. If you're a Christian, read the word, especially the book of Romans, chapters 9 - 11. And most important, get on your knees before God and repent and seek Him with your whole heart. Besides rallying support the best I know how, I am praying, including prayers of forgiveness, asking God to forgive those who are doing this harm, because as Jesus said from the cross, "...they know not what they do." 

Day 349 What is Faith?

 

12/15/2025

"Faith is daring to do something 

regardless of the consequences."  

 

Today is the second night of lighting the Hanukkah candles. I did not mention the first evening that began at sunset Sunday night, because with all the tragedy, there just are no words. Hanukkah better known as Festival of Lights is supposed to be a celebration of the miracle of the oil when the second temple was re-dedicated to the Lord. Jesus called the festival the Festival of Dedication, and He attended the celebration with His disciples. I believe I have spoken on the entire message behind the celebration. It is not a commanded feast of the Lord, as the other feasts that are observed by the Jewish people. Here is a brief description of the history of Hanukkuh from Sergeant Major Chaim Malespin of the IDF and CEO of the Aliyah Return Center in Jerusalem:  

"You see, about a hundred years earlier, the Seleucid Empire had conquered Judea (Israel) and heavily persecuted the people. They burned Torah scrolls and forbade the Jewish people from worshiping God. They even went so far as to set up an idol of Zeus in the Temple—God’s Temple!

One of the priestly families, called the Maccabees, led a revolt against this evil regime. Despite the odds being against them, they managed to regain freedom and autonomy from the Seleucid Empire.

One of the most important tasks after this victory was to cleanse and rededicate the Temple to God. They removed all the idols and purified it from all impurities.

One of the special elements of the Temple was the seven-branched lampstand. This lampstand required special oil, and in their search, they found only enough pure, kosher oil to keep it burning for one day. It would take eight days to press and prepare new oil. However, by a miracle, the oil burned for eight days! This was a miracle of light.

And there, during this festival, the greatest miracle of Light entered the Temple—Yeshua Himself.

Some recognized the Light, while others did not. There in the Temple, He was confronted by those who did not believe that God could come as a man.Yeshua told them plainly that He and the Father are one. They could not see it. They saw Yeshua as merely a man. Yeshua had to escape from them and went to the Jordan River, where John had once baptized many people. There, several Jewish locals gathered and their eyes were open. They believed that Yeshua was who He said He was! You can read the full account of this story in John 10:22–42.

I pray that this holiday season of light, we would have ears to hear the Shepherd, and eyes to see."

I have been observing this celebration by lighting the candles for two years now, as I learn more about the traditions of the Jewish nation through my association with the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem. It also increases my hunger to know more and more about the history of the Jewish people. I have been amazed at how much I actually have learned at the feet of Jesus over my many years of walking with Him and reading and studying the scriptures myself. Sadly I have not always had the blessing of having a pastor who taught the whole counsel of the Word, so I went to the Source. I wish more people would follow that path, then perhaps our world would not be such a dark place, and the younger kids would not be so confused. I always took the word literally as it is written, so I never had a problem with the Jewish nation being God's chosen people. I am grateful that He loved me, and because I loved Him, I became part of the One New Man. Understanding more as I read and re-read the scriptures has been the joy of my life.

 

Yesterday we were saddened by the news from Sydney, Australia, as we received a first-hand witness from a member of our prayer group, who lives in Australia. I am referring to the Bondi Beach shooting of the Jewish gathering celebrating Hanukkah who were shot down by a father and son, killing 12 people and wounding up to 60, many who are in critical condition. The victims included a young school girl and a holocaust survivor. One brave gentleman ran over and grabbed the gun from one of the shooters. He was there with his two children, eating lunch, and when he heard the shots he went to see what was happening. Many are calling him a hero, and I honor the selfless act he performed, putting his own life in jeopardy. What an example to follow, and the hero just happened to be a Muslim man. As to why these two men did this crime is still unknown. But it happened just as many other things in our nation and world are happening now on a daily basis.

 

In California a family had 40 bullets shot into their home when they saw the Hanukkah lights. I'm surprised no one has noticed mine. There's nothing wrong with celebrating life. Why does there have to be so much hatred! I think that is one reason why I have felt so teary-eyed today. 

 

Today I saw a headline about the actor Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele, being murdered in their own home. Later, the headlines said that their son, Nick, had stabbed them. He had been in rehab for mental illness, and apparently things happened to him, and his parents did not listen, but why oh why would he resort to murder?! My own son struggles with mental health issues from trauma he suffered. The psychiatrists of this world only give more and more medication, and the counselors do not deal with the root of the problem. I have seen this over and over again in the case management clients I assisted when I was working. The difference is that I worked with the client and the doctors to ensure they had the proper care and balance of medication/treatment. This is not routinely done. There are so many job vacancies in Virginia alone for case managers or care coordinators. No one wants to work, because if the job is done correctly, it requires dedication and a listening ear and caring heart. Most who work now are overworked, but it is so rewarding when someone's life turns around, and they become free of the monkey on their backs - dependence on psych medications. I am praying for the day when my son will be free. Jesus sets us free! If only, if only someone would believe that truth. The enemy is good at twisting truth into lies and making people think they can never be well. But not my family! So devil beware!!

 

Yesterday I spoke about faith and the meaning based on the scriptures in Hebrews, chapter 1. I discussed the Hebrew hall of faith fame leaders in the Bible, and I shared a bit of their stories. Today I am looking at James that continues where Hebrews leaves off. James teaches that "faith without works is dead" (James 2:17). We know that we are not saved by works as Ephesians 2:8-9 clearly declares: "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast." Only through accepting the sacrifice of Jesus Christ's shed blood on Calvary, can a man be redeemed from the curse of death. But James tells us that when we are born again by the Spirit of God our old lives begin to change, as we are transformed into the new man in Christ. His ways transform our old man into a brand new creation who delights in doing and follow the word of the Lord. Doing good works is the proof of our surrender and dedication to Jesus. James says in verse 17 that "So you see, it isn't enough just to have faith. You must also do good to prove that you have it. Faith that doesn't show itself by good works is no faith at all - it is dead and useless."

 

As believers and followers in Christ we have an obligation to stand up and speak out against the evil of this world. We are told to be the hands and feet of Jesus, sharing the Gospel of the message of Christ, loving our neighbors, bringing light into the darkness. This evil must be stopped, and the church, the real remnant of God's people, co-heirs with Christ in this world as sojourners until He returns, must awaken, rise up, and make a change. I have said this so many times before, but we must do better!

 

Day 348 Sunday Prayers

 

12/14/2025

"Prayer is the very life-breath of

true Christianity."  

 

Today has been a tough one again, although I have been encouraged through tears and laughter, song and mirth. Always, always I find comfort when I fall into His arms or climb into His lap or sit at His feet. Just knowing that He is forever faithful, always present, never too busy to listen, giver of hope and love and joy unspeakable and full of glory. When I consider His ways, His gentleness, compassion, mercy and grace, my response can only be love and extreme gratitude. No matter what comes my way, I can always say that "The joy of the Lord is my strength! (Nehemiah 8:10).

It is so much easier for a parent to endure pain and suffering than to watch a child go through it. I have had much experience along both lines - being the receiver and being the parent who witnesses heartbreak, disappointment, and worse things, some too terrible to say. Right now is one of those times when I honestly don't know what to do except put one foot before the other and trust unreservedly in the God of my salvation. Yesterday I spoke of the faithful saints written about in Hebrews 11, who dared to trust God without ever seeing the fulfillment of the promises He gave them. They walked in faith, sight unseen, never questioning, never doubting, simply obeying. Remember the favorite old hymn, Trust and Obey? It's a timeless classic, so let me remind you of the words:

"When we walk with the Lord
in the light of his word,
what a glory he sheds on our way!
While we do his good will,
he abides with us still,
and with all who will trust and obey." 

Refrain:
"Trust and obey, for there's no other way
to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey." 

"Not a burden we bear,
not a sorrow we share,
but our toil he doth richly repay;
not a grief or a loss,
not a frown or a cross,
but is blest if we trust and obey." [Refrain] 

"But we never can prove
the delights of his love
until all on the altar we lay;
for the favor he shows,
for the joy he bestows,
are for them who will trust and obey." [Refrain]

"Then in fellowship sweet
we will sit at his feet,
or we'll walk by his side in the way;
what he says we will do,
where he sends we will go;
never fear, only trust and obey." [Refrain]

Do you remember the words of this old hymn? It was and still is one of my favorites, as it reminds me to remain firmly planted, trusting in the Lord to guide me and keep me. Over the past week since the accident I have kept myself uplifted by studying the word of God and in singing choruses and hymns. I have been wailing out the chords like a rusty piano in English, Spanish, and the little Hebrew I have learned. Sometimes all three at once! Mostly, I have been remembering how much I have been cared for over the many years of living alone, and as I share my testimony, which is almost daily, the one word to describe my life has been AMAZING! I have no great wealth, rather limited funds, so I laugh wholeheartedly when I see the question in advertisements about how long $200,000 or less can last in retirement. I laugh harder when I see that gold is the only solution for the sinking dollar. It's not what we have or how much we have that describes our inherent worth or value in this world today, although most think it is. And the only security is faith in Jesus Christ. Most think less of that statement, even the church. I grew up with my dad self-employed, then employed as a mechanic at McLean's Trucking Company, no longer in existence. I think he also sold Bond Bread, no longer in existence. My mama never worked very much, but for a very limited time she was employed by the Green Stamp Store, no longer in existence. I remember the name of her supervisor was Gertie. Thanks to this store, I was able to get furniture and other necessities for my daughter when she was a baby, even if damaged or returned. I've lived with used furniture and hand me downs, but when I was able, I'd share my baby items and clothing to someone in need. I even gave my wedding gown to a friend, and I sewed a green satin bridesmaid gown for a lady for $30. I've been an entrepreneur my entire life, but I never did it for personal gain. I did it to survive, and if someone needed help, I was proud to help. I learned these values from my parents and grandparents and from my Savior, who was and remains the great Giver of all. I think generosity of spirit has been lost in this "me first" world. I thank God for my family who were able to make me feel like the richest person in the world. They too were givers.

As I sit here, listening to Pastors Jack and Greg, I sing wholeheartedly as I consider the days ahead. I'm sitting her waiting. I don't know what will happen, what I will be told about my car, but I am trusting God to meet my needs, as He always has. My eyes are trained on Him:

 "I will lift up my eyes unto the hills -

from whence comes my help?

My help comes from the LORD, who made

heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot 

to be moved; He who keeps you will not

slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel shall

neither slumber nor sleep."

Psalm 121:1-4  

 

Day 347 Sabbath - Greater Faith

 

12/13/2025

 "What is faith? It is the confident assurance that

something we want is going to happen. It is the certainty

that what we hope for is waiting for us, even 

though we cannot see it up ahead."

Hebrews 11:1

 

God always gives us what we need at just the right time. Many times I have to giggle, because His ways of ensuring I'm listening are so insightful. Sometimes I wonder why I worry about things at all, because simple faith and trust in the One who holds me in the palm of His hand, His righteous right hand, is for certain. Today when I opened my Bible to the passage of scripture for today I found myself in the eleventh chapter of Hebrews, better known as the faith chapter. Reading about the Old Testament saints in the hall of faith fame reawakened my heart to the faithfulness of our God who calls us to walk in obedience, even if we don't know where the road is leading. People may find that irresponsible and a bit foolish in our practical world we live in. It certainly does not seem to be the road to success in the modern man's opinion, but I don't follow the counsel of the world. That in itself frustrates many people who are in opposition to those who choose to walk as I do.

My life is very simple, and I really don't ask for much or expect anything other than respect and kindness. Many times I have been shown neither, but my response towards others is merciful, kind, and forgiving. As I grow older and walk more closely to our Lord, my compassion grows, and I can see what Jesus meant when He told Abba to "forgive them because they don't know what they're doing." People are so blinded by the chaos, confusion, and outright lies and ugliness in our world today. I choose not to walk in that world. As a follower of Jesus Christ I am only passing through, as my eternal citizenship is in heaven, but while I am here, I occupy and live my life as unto the LORD. If I can walk following the example of the faithful saints of Hebrews chapter eleven, then my life will be full and productive and bring honor to my God and King. That's why I'm here! 

In this passage of scripture the writer first mentions Abel, who walked in faith through obedience to God in bringing a suitable sacrifice to the Lord, and God accepted His gift. His brother Cain's sacrifice was not done as God commanded, hence his gift was not acceptable to the Lord, and Abel died from Cain's intense jealousy. Enoch trusted God too, and because of his walk of faith, God took him away one day to live with Him in heaven. That's quite a transfer! How I wish my faith in God could be like that. He was the first saint to be taken to heaven until Elijah was taken by a chariot. 

Noah listened to God's warning concerning sinful man and the destruction of the world by flooding when the earth had never seen rain. But, in faith Noah built the first boat, an ark that took a hundred years to build while he tried to witness to the people. Only his family and the animals were spared, but imagine the faith it took to listen to people mock him for that long, then they suffered the curse of death from unbelief and sin. Noah and his family were then tasked with beginning all over and re-populating the world. Of course, the sinful nature still resided within man, as it will continue until the day Jesus returns to take His faithful followers home. But Noah was considered faithful, even though his son brought further sin and hatred into the land through a curse on his son, Canaan. We are witnessing the results of that sin still today.

Abraham was chosen by God to be the father to his chosen people before he even had a son! Sarah, his wife, was barren, and they were both advanced in age, yet God spoke, Abraham believed and by faith in God, He became the father of Isaac, who was the father of Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel. Jacob became the leader of the chosen people, and through his sons the twelve tribes of Israel were born. Even though Abraham and Sarah became impatient in waiting for the fulfillment of the promise of a son, and they decided to "help" God resulting in the birth of Ishmael, God still considered them faithful. Issac was the promised son of Abraham, born through Sarah. God had Abraham offer up his only son, Isaac as a sacrifice to Him, but God stopped him, as He was merely testing Abraham, and somehow Abraham had faith that God would supply the sacrifice. This was a foreshadowing of God offering His only begotten Son as the Lamb of God who took away the sins of the world. The perfect Passover Lamb who freely gave His life to ransom ours from sin and death and hell. From the foundation of the world Christ freely gave Himself for us. God is all knowing (Omniscient), always present (Omnipresent), and all powerful (Omnipotent). Nothing is a surprise to Him. And He changes not. 

Jacob went through his own set of troubles, but his faithfulness, as I mentioned, is duly-noted in scripture as faithful. Then there's Moses, who felt that he was not the right man for the job when God called him into service to rescue His people from Pharaoh. We all know how the story goes. The scripture continues with the names of others, stating that if all who were faithful to God were listed that it would take too long to relate. Can you imagine the long list that would follow? One day I hope to hear all the stories told and retold, and we will have adequate time to listen and rejoice! An eternity!

I want my life to be counted as faithful to the Lord. I owe Him my life, and I am grateful more and more as each day goes by. I hope that my testimony shared personally, on what I post and comment on Facebook or what I write in my blogs as my testimony will lead others to know the Christ I love, the One who died for all, and who wants to spend eternity in fellowship with those who choose to follow Him. I cannot explain the depth of love and compassion He has given me for all people, even those who are not following Him. I pray for all to come to know Him, the incredible richness of His glory, but sadly, there will be those who choose to walk away. This saddens me, because it breaks His heart more than it ever could mine. 

I pray that we each will take the time He has given us as sojourners in this land to use it to bring glory and honor to His Name. There is no better life, no better service but to live for Christ, even if it means death, as He died for us. To some this is a hard saying, but I live to see His face, the One who gave everything for me. As He did for you. May we bring glory, honor and praise to His Great Name!