Day 151 Smile!!

 

5/31/2025

 

I was surprised to learn that today is National Smile Day, originating from to dentists desiring to share "the power of a healthy smile." That's not shocking, as good oral hygiene supports an overall healthy body. Sadly, in some countries, dental care is not available as it is in the Western Hemisphere, but thank goodness for organizations like Doctors Across Borders and Samaritan's Purse who provide a multitude of needed services across the globe, as well as Smile Train that provides assistance with corrective surgery for cleft palates and lips. It's a marvelous thing to behold, and it should broaden the smiles of anyone who notices the dramatic changes this assistance provides to a hurting world. 

National Smile Day is also celebrated to foster acts of kindness and encouragement to others showing the positive affects a smile can have in encouraging another person. The Bible says a merry heart does good like medicine," and it's free! Smiles don't cost anything, and it helps lift the face keeping one more youthful in appearance. Frowning, however, ages people very quickly. Facial muscles need working out, so why not do it the easy way and smile!! 

I love to watch people laughing and smiling, because it can be contagious, and we certainly could use more doses of "happiness." I was looking for the photos to include in my post, and the lady above caught my attention. Pictures speak better than words, and this little lady looks to be considerably older, but whatever made her laugh certainly brought a smile to my face just seeing her so happy. While I don't her story or where she lives, I can imagine her life has been difficult, but she has overcome any hardship by learning how to be content with a mirth on the side.

I have always admired Mother Teresa, who offers wise counsel in this photo, while letting us know where our true focus should be:

 

Little kids, especially mischievous ones, seems to find joy more readily than others, as this little fellow proves:  

 

 

Man is not the only creature who is capable of smiling, whenever the one with the camera shouts, "Smile."

 

 

 In this picture the little one's words speak loudly with a lesson we all should learn, especially needed in our world today:

 

 

I understand that the entire month has been called Smile Month. I hope so, because imagine all the acts of kindness and good will can be extended to others in that amount of time. When I lived in Northern New Mexico, one of my favorite things to do was to walk down town around the plaza area of Santa Fe, and give eye to eye contact to people passing by me. Just imagine the change that can come from paying attention to someone, saying "hello" and "how's your day going." Conversations can be sparked, and it's a great opportunity to share about yourself, your life, and if you feel so inclined, it's a perfect time to share faith in Jesus Christ. He is the ultimate smile bringer and encouragement. Whatever you do, wherever you are, have a wonderful month of smiles, spreading the love and shining the light. Laugh hard and laugh long.

 

Day 150 Mission Statements

 

5/30/2025 

 

Last night I was too busy to formulate any cohesive thoughts, so I will be piecing yesterday's reflections together from my copious notes. I tend to write a lot in my journals, personal and the prayer journal for Israel, and I try to tie them together, which isn't really difficult to do. As I mentioned the day before, I am reading about Job's misadventures, his sufferings, betrayals, and doubts. When God allowed Job's trials, He only told satan that he could not take his life. Many times I've been pounded from all sides, and right now, because I've been laying low, so to speak, things have quieted down. At least on the family end of things, although I would rather it be different. I'm learning to lay things down and wait, but sometimes the silence can be deafening.

Most of our prayer time has been centered on the rise in antisemitism, especially as been witnessed on college campuses. It is interesting to me how much feelings have changed, philosophies, really, or I might even say theologies. Let's take a look at Harvard University for starters. Here's their "mission statement" when they were first established:

"Let every student be plainly instructed, and earnestly pressed to consider well. The main end of this life and studies is to know God and Jesus Christ which is eternal life."

Today it has changed to the following:

"The mission statement of Harvard College is to educate the citizens and citizen-leaders for our society. We do this through our commitment to the transformative power of a liberal arts and sciences education." 

Quite a difference in role and character from the vision of the founding fathers whose eyes were focused on the only One who has the power to transform a mind for righteousness and moral integrity. In researching the difference between Harvard College and Harvard University, both share the same mission statement. Harvard has several branches of specialized training to include law, medicine, and divinity. The mission and vision for the School of Divinity are: 

"Harvard Divinity School educates students of religion for intellectual leadership, professional service, and ministry."

"To provide an intellectual home where scholars and professionals from around the globe research and teach the varieties of religion, in service of a just world at peace across religious and cultural divides."

This reminds me of when women wanted to be independent and be able to vote, the woman suffrage movement. Back in those chaotic days of change and revolution in America, had merit. Women should have equal rights to vote, but I believe things go better when we follow God's way of doing things. Back in those days, only white men could vote, and everyone else was consider lesser. Thankfully, many things have changed, but battles still ensure, and the new demon of "entitlement" is on the rampage. This is one I've wrestled with when working for Medicare/Medicaid recipients. All I'll say is that there is a lot of deception, wrong thinking, and yes, fraud, that can come when matters are not handled with integrity and transparency.

So now, let's take a look see at Yale University. Their mission statement at the beginning was:

"Every student shall consider the main end of this study. To wit is to know God in Jesus Christ, and answerably to lead a Godly, sober life." 

And today: 

 "Yale is committed to improving the world today and for future generations through outstanding research and scholarship, education, preservation, and practice. Yale educates aspiring leaders worldwide who serve all sectors of society. We carry out this mission through the free exchange of ideas in an ethical, interdependent, and diverse community of faculty, staff, students, and alumni."

While this may not disturb anyone, to include pastors and those who follow Christ's teachings, as it does to the extent it does me, it should. It is bad enough to watch what is happening across the globe as riots and protestors are rallying against Israel, but the lack of concern shown by the church at large is sickening, especially here in our own United States. Like it or not, the children of Israel are God's chosen people, as stated in the Bible both in the Old and New Testaments. Romans chapters 10 and 11 present the story from Paul's teaching. Whereas I cannot say that I was taught the meaning of these scriptures when I was growing up, nevertheless, I was wise enough in my own study and in conversations with God to know the truth. In our prayer sessions we are told to examine our hearts, to surrender to Christ, and in doing so, we no longer matter, we die to our conceptions and perspectives. All that matters is the truth who is Jesus Christ. The wonderful news is that as believers, true believers that is, we have been grafted into the Vine, Jesus Christ, rooted in God's love, and we are now joint heirs with Christ and our Messianic Jewish brethren. 

I am grateful for my upbringing, mostly sitting at the feet of Jesus over all these years. This is important stuff. It is the Word of God, and it is life eternal. It should be of prime importance to every Christian, and it needs to be shared. Then perhaps the world would become more enlightened and love the Jewish people who want nothing else but to live in peace with their neighbors.

 

Day 149 Apples of Gold

 

5/29/2025

"A word aptly spoken is like apples of

gold in settings of silver."

Proverbs 21:11

 

Much has been written about the power of the tongue, how it can build up or tear down in one simple word. When I woke up this morning, the first time, I felt rested and refreshed, but it was so early that I decided to snooze a bit longer, at least until the alarm went off at 7 am. I went to bed late again, even so I should have gone ahead and stayed up anyway. I always regret it when I allow my weak flesh to win. Nonetheless, I did manage to beat the alarm by a few minutes. The cat helped me out, as she often does. She is very finicky about her water, so she complains several times a day and in the evening if it isn't "just so." 

My heart was heavy this morning after a casual glimpse at the news. I try to avoid looking at anything before quiet time, but the photo of a baby caught my eye. The headlines read: 

"Mom is waiting for you upstairs": Tze'ela Gaz's baby laid to rest.

 "Ravid Haim Gez, the infant born after his mother Tze'ela, was gunned down by a Palestinian terrorist in the West Bank earlier this month, has passed away."

'It is with great sadness and pain that we learned this morning of the death of baby Ravid Haim, son of Tze'ela and Hananel Gez,' said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. 'There are no words that can comfort the murder of a newborn baby along with his mother.'"

Another senseless death because of hatred. This happened as the couple were enroute to the hospital, as Tze'ela was in labor. They were gunned down, and the mother died, but the husband survived. Although the baby was delivered alive, he was in critical condition. A young couple's life destroyed, because of antisemitism - hatred of a peaceful nation.

When I picked up my 60 Days of Prayer devotional the prayer topic for today was "Finding Joy on Challenging Days." It spoke of life throwing "curve balls," but this was much larger than a baseball and more distressing. Then I picked up my Bible, and today I started with the Book of Job. Interesting how these things work out, right?! Poor Job lost everything just to test out satan's theory, except for his wife and three close friends. His wife tells Job to curse God and die, while his friends at least sat in silence with him for seven days before they offered verbal assault. I think Job got a double whammy with the wife and friends. But in the end Job is restored to health and prosperity plus more children. I guess his wife hung around.

So many things happen in life we cannot explain, but we must trust God. We know that He is good and loves us. We know that He is just and holy. But there is much we don't understand, such as all the senseless murders. The hideous and unimaginable tragedies in life. The war reached its 601st day today, but we remain steadfast and watchful on the wall of Jerusalem, standing guard, prayerful and, like Job, praising God for His mercy and grace.

I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem;
They shall never hold their peace day or night.
You who make mention of the Lord, do not keep silent,
And give Him no rest till He establishes
And till He makes Jerusalem a praise in the earth.

Isaiah 62:6-7  

In responding to painful or difficult situations in life where comfort and friendship are much needed, the best support we show to another who is suffering is to do as the three friends of Job initially did: sit down and be there showing support and offering comfort without saying a single word. "Apples of gold in settings of silver" means knowing what to do or say in a certain situation, "aptly spoken" at the right time. Just don't follow the "friends" example and subject the listener to monologue of aimless chatter. Just be there!

Day 148 Another Rainy Day

 

5/28/2025

 "Mercy and truth have met together;

Righteousness and peace have kissed.

Truth shall spring out of the earth,

and righteousness shall look down from heaven.

Psalm 85:10-11

Another rainy day, very cool temperatures, and I haven't accomplished very much in the way of house work or yard work. There's so much that needs doing that I become overwhelmed just trying to make a list as a coping mechanism, then it ends up in the pile with all the other lists. The rained paused enough for me to walk to the mail box for yesterday's mail, only to find that my life insurance payment is due. Normally this isn't distressing news, but it seems as if I've had so many unplanned expenses this month - purchase of two tires, routine maintenance on the car that has to be done at the dealership, among other things. In a few months I will need to have the brakes serviced, but this isn't so bad owing to the fact that the car is a 2017 model, and the brakes have remained in great shape. That comes from driving easy on the brakes and doing routine maintenance. Since moving home, my son takes care of some things, as he is a mechanic, and a very good one. He's hoping to return to his vocation again when the time is right. I hope so, as he's honest and reputable. He stands behind his work. Thankfully we've found a very good mechanic here close to home, so if anyone needs a good one, let me know.

Today I caught up on some news from one of my prayer sources. I keep up with prayer points daily, but I cannot always read the articles in full, because I receive similar updates from other sources. I was able to post a few on my Facebook platform, hoping they are of concern to someone. I am beginning to wonder who really cares about the things that capture God's attention. I'm sure that people read and sigh, but I'm a bit more emotional, and I can't sigh it away. Today, for one, I posted an article about school safety, to put it nicely. I can't remember if the article is called "Pass the Trash" or if that was just how the schools deal with problems, they pass "the trash" on to another school, endangering other children. There is so much happening in schools today that parents and grandparents need to pay attention and be involved. I've mentioned this before, but it fell on deaf ears. So, I pray for the kids, the teachers, and those who push evil agenda on innocent children. I worked with at risk kids when I was living in New Mexico, and I will never turn my back on these things. Back in the day, my children's schools here in Virginia had book sales, and I participated in events and helping the teachers. I was blessed to be able to be home while they were in elementary school. Still, it seems that I couldn't protect them from predators, but that's a story for another time. 

This weekend there was an event in Seattle, Washington, as part of the Mayday USA Tour working with the "dontmesswithourkids" movement that did not go well and ended up in a riot as naysayers tried to stop the peaceful rally. Five major cities in America: New York City, Miami, Houston, Seattle, and Los Angeles were chosen as key cities threatening the welfare of children. Houston is the highest ranked in the nation for child sex-trafficking, I've heard. This Tour takes to the street to share, encourage, stand for religious freedom - truth, justice, and righteousness - and make a stand for children, for life, for marriage, for the family unit, and for freedom of speech. They wanted to bless the city by providing haircuts by "Cuts 4 Kids," bicycle giveaways, and grocery card giveaways. They had teams of youth evangelists who spoke to families, and there was worship, and a friendly venue planned. The one in New York City was very successful, and the children had a great time, people turned their lives to Christ, and it was a very good turn out. In Seattle protestors arrived, and the rest is news. So sad that no one says anything about the destructive demonstrations that attempt to counter something good and clean, rather, they try to suggest that Christians infringed on their turf. Very sad, especially for the children.

But in spite of the negative news that seems to plague the networks, some good things happen. I posted an article about a man finding stray kittens that was very heartwarming. He stopped for one kitten by the road, and he said he was ambushed at 11 or 12 more. It was a very warm and fuzzy story with a great ending, especially for the fur babies who all found homes. Now if we could settle the problems of homelessness on city streets and children in need of adoption or foster care. It seems as if animals have a better track record than children. 

Well, enough of my ramblings. I seldom take a day to sit and relax, but it seems as if I've been doing that more often, lately. I imagine that I have put things aside for too long, and sometimes, I need to think about self-preservation. Since moving back, I haven't gotten used to all the housework and cooking for two! But, who knows, this may only be a short sojourn for me, and then I'll be off to the next thing in God's book for me! I welcome all adventures!

Day 147 Words with Purpose

 

 “Before we can pray, "Lord, Thy Kingdom come," we must be willing to pray, "My Kingdom go.”
― Alan Redpath

 

Sometimes I have nothing to say. Today my thoughts have been muddled. Perhaps the incessant rain, perhaps melancholy over a memory so dear or so frightful, or maybe even.... See, no words can express the depth of my soul. But, regardless of what memories or present realities arise on the day after remembering those who selflessly gave their lives for our country, I am grateful, and there is a joy that is so within my soul that no unhappiness can touch it. The joy of the LORD will always be my strength. So I share Alan Redpath's words today - a man I was recently introduced to by Jack Hibbs. He was born on January 9, 1907 and died March 16, 1989. He was a well known British evangelist and pastor who accomplished much for the kingdom of God before journeying home to be with his Savior. I hope his words inspire, encourage, and enable to live a life for Christ and to love your neighbor as yourself.

 

“When GOD wants to do an impossible task He takes an impossible man and crushes him.”
― Alan Redpath 

 

 “The Bible NEVER flatters its heroes. It tells us the truth about each one of them in order that against the background of human breakdown and failure we may magnify the grace of God and recognize that it is the delight of the Spirit of God to work upon the platform of human impossibilities.”
― Alan Redpath, The Making of a Man of God: Lessons from the Life of David 

 

 

“There is some task which the God of all the Universe, the Great Creator, your Redeemer in Jesus Christ has for you to do--and which will remain undone and incomplete until, by faith and obedience, you step into the will of God.”
― Alan Redpath

“Let a man be right with God, reconciled through the blood of the cross, humbled at the foot of Calvary; let him be broken, coming to God guilty and hopeless and needy; and at that moment God takes hold of him and transforms and uses all his gifts and qualities, until that man becomes a mighty influence. But he has first to come down from his ladder of pride to the very foot of the cross.”
― Alan Redpath, The Making of a Man of God: Lessons from the Life of David

 

 

 

Day 146 Remembering

5/26/2025

 "Precious in the sight of the LORD is the 

death of His saints."

Psalm 116:15

Memorial Day is a day to honor our military, those who selflessly gave their lives fighting to defend, preserve, and protect the freedom of our country. As we offer prayers of thanksgiving to God for His love and protection, we also pray for all who have experienced the loss of loved ones. When I remember all the wars over the years and all the blood that has been shed, my mind cannot grasp the horror of it. The observance of this day began after the Civil War when people placed flowers on graves, and it graduated to Memorial Day in 1971. Of course there is much more written about the origin of the observance and the many wars that have been fought on foreign soil. I pray that we never have to fight a war on American soil again.

It's been a relatively quiet day in my neighborhood today. Many times people get together, and charcoal grills are fired up, but today I have not detected any sense of burgers or fires. Someone was cutting the grass, it rained at short time, but then the sun came out, and the weather was cool and comfortable. I chased my wayward cat, Alex, around the yard in an attempt to comb tiny berries out of his fur before they become a tangled mess requiring me to cut chunks of fur out. That has been all the excitement I've noticed, and I am surprised, as generally there is much more activity.

Generally on this day I am invited to online events honoring our military, but again, I have not noticed any email notices. I've received emails, but I have not gotten invitations. I watched the movie Green Berets starring John Wayne, because it is one I can identify with. I remember when we had our high school reunion after my friends returned from Vietnam. The guys got together in a room and shared their experiences, and they taped it to share with everyone. I remember the demonstrations at the colleges in protest of that war, and I remember the way the returning veterans were treated. I think that's why I always enjoyed watching the Rambo movies, especially the second one about Vietnam. It gives me much to think about as does Green Berets. War is so savage and many innocent people have died as others tried to protect them from harm. Even now wars rage in foreign countries, most noticeably the wars between Israel and Hamas and between Russia and Ukraine. Even now as I am writing, alerts are going off in Israel, three in various areas within moments of each other. In Israel it is not even daybreak yet. 

I briefly watched the ceremony held at the Arlington National Cemetery attended by President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. Both Vance and Hegseth have served active duty in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, so we honor them among those who are veterans and who are currently serving in active duty. For a brief period of time I served as a civilian employee at Fort Lee here in Prince George County, and I remember each day began with posting the flag and playing the National Anthem. Cars en-route to work would stop, and the drivers would disembark and pay homage to the flag with hand over the heart, soldiers saluting the flag, something I still do to honor my country.

The day is almost spent, and it's time to close the books for the day. May we never forget the sacrifice that others play in our lives. Most importantly we never can forget the freedom we received when Jesus ransomed our lives from death, and offered us the gift of eternal life and eternal freedom. May He be praised!

Day 145 Not Yet

5/25/2025

 "'You have put all things in subjection under his feet.'

For in that He put all in subjection under him. 

But now we do not yet see all things put under him."

Hebrews 2:8

Looking at this scripture may confuse some as to the exact meaning, how it pertains to the believer today. I admit there is much I do not understand and never will until I see Jesus face to face. But, I am becoming better with the "if" you obey Me, "then" I will do somethings in scripture, but today's verse found in Hebrews 2:8 seems paradoxical. The book of Hebrews' authorship is unknown, but it was written to encourage the believers in their faith, as they were being persecuted, others were getting lazy, or unsure, so they were thinking of going back to Judaism. In Chapter 1 of the epistle, the author begins with saying that in prior days God spoke to the people through the prophets, but now through His Son, Jesus Christ, who after accomplishing His purpose here on earth, saving us from our sins, has now ascended and is seated at the right hand of the Father in heaven. Skipping down to verse 10, Jesus is identified as the one who was from the beginning laid the foundation of the earth, and, since Jesus has now ascended to Heaven with God, it identifies man as being a little higher than the angels. Imagine that. 

The verse above speaks of Christ's taking back the world that was given to satan when Adam and Eve sinned, and making the church the head of the Body of Christ until His return. Jesus accomplished this once and for all by his death, burial and resurrection. He also gave us Holy Spirit to remind us of all Jesus taught while on each, and to give man the power or boldness to walk in the authority given us. So if He accomplished what He set out to do, which is: "For this reason the Son of God was revealed in order to destroy the works of the devil" (1 John 3:8), why is this world such a huge mess, and why is the devil still running around wreaking havoc on the world?! It's this way, He did His part, but the rest is up to us, until God says it is time to return Jesus back to earth to take us home. I, not being a theologian, may have completely understated the facts, but the bottom line, in my simple vernacular is He's in heaven, and we believers are still here, because He hasn't finished with us yet. The enemy is still running around with his third of the angels, now demons, trying to take as many with him as he can, while in many instances we, the church, are sitting on our proverbial seats letting him do it. I'm not going to address that, for the moment at least. 

Although He finished the work on the cross and said "It is finished," He's in heaven, and we are here. So what was seen or witnessed by many at the time, has not yet been witnessed by us here, not until God sends Him back to rapture the church. Actually, I don't have a difficult time with this, because later in Hebrews 11 we are told in verse 1 that "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." When I repeat these words in prayer, for emphasis, I interject the word "yet" between the words "not seen." We have faith based on what God's word says, even though the answer may not have come to pass - yet! In Hebrews 11 the writer speaks of the faith of many who followed God's word only, and they were rewarded because of their faith in what God.

Before Jesus died, in John 17, Jesus prays for Himself, then the disciples, and then beginning in verse 20, He prays for those who will believe based on the testimony of the apostles:

"I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one; I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me. Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father! The world has not known You, but I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me. And I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them" (John 17:20-26).

The believers of today, we who have accepted Christ as Savior and Lord, are those to whom Jesus refers. Kind of wonderful, isn't it?! To think that first of all God loved us enough to send His Son to die for us, so we could be clean enough to approach a holy God, and have an intimate relationship with our Father God in Heaven (John 3:16; Romans 5:8). Since the beginning of time that is all God wanted from us - relationship, but Adam and Eve faltered, and here we are. The blood of cows and sheep and goats could never be enough to cover the continual sins of man from beginning to until life on earth ends, so God had a better plan, a better "blood," the death of His Son, Jesus: "...knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot" (1 Peter 1:18-19). 

Jesus became for the Jewish nation the Passover Lamb, but that also is a subject for another time. Suffice it to say that God keeps His promises, so we need to be obedient to His word and walk worthy of the high calling of Jesus Christ, who loved us so much that He was willing to come down from heaven, be born of a virgin, suffer and die although He did nothing to deserve it. He took our place, our ugly sins, and after being tortured beyond human recognition, in agonizing pain, He rose, just as He said He would, on the third day. He appeared to Mary Magdalene first, who told her to tell the disciples He had risen, then He appeared to them. During the time He was "dead," He visited Paradise with the thief who believed on the cross, where those who believed in Him from before (like David, Isaiah) were resting in death. He set captivity free and took back the keys of hell. The word says that when He arose, graves came open (Matthew 27:52), and the saints walked around. Before He ascended to Heaven, He appeared to the disciples, told them He was going to send them a Comforter - Holy Spirit, and for them to wait in Jerusalem until He came. Then He commissioned them to go into all the world and preach the gospel. As we can see in the book of Acts, they set the world on fire! So must we!

That's my quick run through the scriptures, just to say, He does what He says He will do, so what do we do?! We wait, and we do what He told us to do...go into all the world and teach the gospel, making disciples of them. We have so much work to do. We each have been given our gifts, our spheres of earthly influence, so we occupy until He returns. I can hardly wait to see Him! Be vigilant!

Day 144 Purge Me, Wash Me

5/24/2025

"Create in me a clean heart, O Lord"

 

My Sabbath day didn't follow the usual flow today. The Shabbat service at Jacob's Tent was canceled for an unspecified reason, which I assume can be one of two reasons, or perhaps, concerns. Life is an adventure for those who follow Christ, so unexpected changes happen, and we learn to adjust, because church doesn't mean going to a building, it's all about our hearts on fire for Jesus, living for Him alone. No matter what is going on in the world, in the State, in the church building, or in the home, we look to Jesus as the Author and Finisher of our faith. 

"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud 

of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which 

so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the

race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and 

finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him

endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat

down at the right hand of the throne of God."

Hebrews 12:1-2

May we take seriously the words of our Father in Heaven who through Paul, called to be an Apostle through Jesus Christ said: "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). John announced to the world the way in which man can be saved by calling on the Lord of Life, the Lamb slain before the foundation of the world, Jesus the Christ:

        "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son,

that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world,

but that the world through Him might be saved."

John 3:16-17

Since the beginning of this new year I have been struggling against the forces of evil that plague this world so that I can do what He called me to do - write the story. He didn't say my story, He said "the story." So each day I try to listen and heed His voice and concerns He has for this nation and this world, so that I can represent Him well. I feel sadly that I am failing Him, and I do not want to stand before Him at the end of my life to give an account for the time I was here and hear Him say "Why didn't you complete the tasks I gave to you? Why didn't you trust Me? Did you not know that I loved you and called you knowing that you are frail as dust. Did you not know that I loved you and love you still in spite of your human frailties?" No, I do not want to see tears roll down His face, because I missed the mark. I want to honor Him with my life, because I love and trust Him, and my words are not just words spoken without meaning. I know when God hurts, because I asked Him to break my heart for what breaks His. And He has been faithful to do so, beginning with my own sins. I have looked upon His face, hanging on a cross for my sins, beaten and ripped apart, and looked into His eyes of love, as He said "Forgive them, for they know not what they do." So with all that is within me, in courage, trust, and obedience, I will write what He says write, and I will expose what He says expose, even if I have to be alone for the remainder of my earthly sojourn. I am that serious about my love for Jesus Christ. I am also that sincere when I say that I do not want to see any man have to face the judgment seat of Christ, because he did not accept the great and free gift of salvation. I do not want to see pastors who thought they were teaching the truth face the same judgment. I do not want to see survivors of the Holocaust face a worse hell, because they did not know the day of the Savior's visitation had already come to save His chosen people, and they did not recognize Him. 

This morning Pastor Jack shared a scripture from Psalm 51, scriptures I repeat daily to humble myself before God. He shared verse 11, "Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me," but I want to share more in context of David's prayer:

"Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

Make me hear joy and gladness, that the bones You have broken may rejoice. 

Hide Your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquities. 

Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take

Your Holy Spirit from me.

Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and uphold me by 

Your generous Spirit. Then I will teach transgressors Your ways,

and sinners shall be converted to You." 

Psalm 51:7-13

Pastor Jack shared that David penned these words after being caught in his adultery with Bathsheba and the murder of her husband, Uriah, identified as one of his thirty mighty men in his army. David, a man of war, a warrior, did not go out with his troops, but he remained at home while they went out and fought. From that point the devil sought the opportunity to bring him down, David the apple of God's eyes, and destroy him. He shared that David "conspires, commits, conceals," his sin, but when confronted by the prophet of God, David repents wholeheartedly before God, because he recognizes that he has sinned against Almighty God. Of course he sinned greatly against others, but the great sin of falling away from the grace of God is to recognize, as David put it, "Against You and You only have I sinned!" He admitted His sin, repented remorsefully, honestly, with a broken and contrite heart and spirit, before the God who loved him, who promised him an everlasting Kingdom from whose lineage would arise a Savior. 

The message, the urgent plea being given is not to be "an almost Christian" who never really was saved who does not honestly repent of his sins, who does not turn from his sins broken and contrite, but who continues unrepentant in his sin, because a true believer cannot conceal sin. This person has not truly accepted Christ as Savior and Lord, because a truly remorseful person knows his sin, recognizes it, sees the ugliness and horror of it, as I did when I saw His face suffering and dying for my stupidity, and cried out in the fear of the LORD, asking for forgiveness and begging Him not to leave me. My heart is crushed when I see others not turn away from their sin or think God doesn't mind if they compromise. Do not take a chance! See how much He loves you, how He doesn't want you to die without Him. Do not allow the enemy of our souls to continue to blind you. Come home to Christ today!

"Our task on earth is singular - to choose our eternal home. You can

afford many wrong choices in life. You can choose the wrong career and 

survive, the wrong city and survive, the wrong house and survive. You can even

choose the wrong mate and survive. But there is one choice that must be

made correctly, and that is your eternal destiny." 

Max Lucado

"And the Angels Were Silent" 

Day 143 Back Road Adventure

5/23/2025

 

My sister and I went to visit our Aunt Libbie in North Carolina today. She's 93 years young, and at the present time she's in a senior living facility in Rocky Mount. It had been reported that she had a fall, and I thought she'd fractured her hip, but she is mobile with assistance, and she can get into a wheelchair, so either I misunderstood, or she had an amazing come back. Miracles happen, ya know. Actually, she's quite amazing. She taught school, and she is still quick, savvy, and her vocabulary is impeccable. She doesn't laugh as much or isn't as conversational as she once was, but she responds well to questions and remembers "way back when" she was a child, even when I was a child and the family got together each Sunday at my grandparent's home. I miss not having my parent's here to ask questions about my childhood, so maybe my aunt will be able to fill in some blanks. I hope so! She's already mentioned that as a little girl her older sister, Buck, as we called her, although her given name was Rebecca, used to take dolls apart to see how they were worked or were able to say "mama." She lost interest after her research was over, however, so she never put them back together. I have to laugh, because my younger son used to do the same, or to see if he could reinvent the wheel. He's better about "fixing stuff" now that he's older, but there's still a bit of wonder in him. Quite a bit actually, and I'm glad, because I have loads myself.

The drive from my home to Spring Arbor Assisted Living in Rocky Mount was a straight shot, but the return trip, taking detours to find a peanut shop in vicinity, gave my GPS, aka "Big Mouth" a run for its money. I love using that device, because when you decide to go against the grain, that little bugger has to redirect, and it can become quite impertinent in its own way. My sister and I love to go to antique shops and walk around looking at old stuff that reminds us of our childhood or when we were young wives, when Tupperware and corning ware were in vogue. So, we also took a side trip to another area in hunt of treasures.

Aunt Ruby's Peanuts was located off a side road, on a back street, just over the railroad track, then to the left, then a right, down a hill in the little town of Enfield, North Carolina. It was actually A&B Milling Company, located in Halifax County which I'm told is one of the largest peanut producing counties in North Carolina. I spoke with the owner and proprietor who told me that his grandfather had started the company back in 1945. Originally it began as a fed and seed store, but it eventually evolved into a mail-order and present day online peanut business. He has local customers, and probably folks like us who wander around back streets in out of the way small towns in search of good peanuts. He said his online business does quite well, so please look them up online, or take a road trip if you're in the area. You will not be disappointed. I'm always looking for new gift ideas for special friends, so I plan on visiting the online store very soon. And when we return to see our aunt, we'll probably make another side trip to visit our new friends in Enfield. I believe in supporting small businesses, and Virginians are next to kin to North Carolina folks.

The rest of our trip was uneventful, sad to say. We hopped back on the interstate and headed back home, since it was getting late. I enjoy spending time with my sister, remembering things, laughing over silly things, planning adventures, and encouraging each other. God knew what He was doing when He said it's time to go back. And although there are days when I wonder why I'm here, He reminds me, and He opens a door to show me why.

 "There is a time for everything,
    and a season for every activity under the heavens"

Ecclesiastes 3:1

Day 142 Let Us Bow Down

 5/22/2025

"Come, let us bow down in worship,

let us kneel before the Lord our Maker."

Psalm 95:6 

Early this morning before I went to bed, I received word from a source in DC that a young couple, staff members at the Israeli Embassy were shot at close range and killed as they left an event at the Jewish museum. The suspect, 30 year old Elias Rodriguez murdered this young couple Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Milgrim, both in their 20's, who were planning to become betrothed. Yaron had already purchased the ring. As the assailant was arrested and taken away, he was heard shouting, "free, free Palestine." This is one more act of antisemitism that is ravaging our nation and the world. It is not new, because racial hatred has existed since the beginning of time. Meanwhile in Israel, bombs had been intercepted by the Iron Dome several times in the late evening and during the day. I have an alert app to notify me of sirens going off in the country, so I can pray specifically. It is disconcerting, to say the least, that these precious young people, who only desire peace, were treated with such cruel hatred. In Iran I watched a news clip of the Iranian supreme leader, Ali Hosseini Khamenei, speaking before a large crowd announcing the following words, "Death to America, Death to America, Death to America, Death to America." The next words are "...is a Zionist regime, which is the lethal cancerous tumor of the region. It has to be uprooted. It will be uprooted for certain. "Death to Israel, Death to Israel, Death to Israel, Death to Israel." And yet, after October 7, 2023, when Israel was viciously attacked and hundreds of innocent men, women, children were massacred, and infants butchered and burned alive in ovens, the world chose to take the side of the evil regime who planned and executed this vicious attack on a sleeping, peaceful nation. My heart breaks, as does any human being with any moral conscience and human dignity. How can we, and how can the Church turn its back?!

As I opened my devotional this morning, I read, "Worship isn't just a moment; it's a lifestyle." I certainly try to live my life in the presence of God, recognizing that His Holy Spirit dwells within me, directing my steps. And I am so grateful for the life He has given me, and the heart He has planted within my body. May it ever beat for Him and for others. Pastor Jack encouraged our day with a verse from Psalm 26:7, "That I may proclaim with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all Your wonders." As he prayed for our day, he recalled a portion of scripture found in Malachi 3:16-18 known as A Book of Remembrance: 

"Then those who feared the Lord spoke to one another,

And the LORD listened and heard them; so a book of remembrance

was written before Him for those who fear the LORD and who meditate on His name.

'They shall be Mine,' says the LORD of hosts, 'on the day that I make

them My jewels. And I will spare them as a man spares his own son

who serves him.' Then you shall again discern between the righteous and 

the wicked, between the one who serves God and one who does not serve Him."    

 

As I busied myself with making my bed, preparing for my day, trying to bring my thoughts captive, trying to think on the good, pure, lovely things, anger began to build within me as memories came to mind, former hurts, and I cried out God, "Why is the body of Christ so busy and never make time for others, especially those of the household of God; especially for those who were once closest friends. A mega church stands between him and helping a friend in need." Sadly, this is not an isolated circumstance, and I have seen it happen within families. What has happened to common decency, to leaving the ninety-nine to go after the one? Perhaps if kindness and compassion became the immediate response to cries for help, our world would be a better place.

"The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous,

and His ears are open to their cry.

The face of the LORD is against those who do evil,

To cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.

The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears,

and delivers them out of all their troubles.

The LORD is near to those who have a  broken heart,

and saves such as have a contrite spirit."

Psalm 34:15-18

 

Day 141 To Touch the Face of God

5/21/2025

Be still and know that I am God;

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth!

Psalm 46:10

 

It's not often that I sit and watch television, because I simply don't have the time or desire to do so, but today, being cold and rainy, I put on the old series, Highway to Heaven, starring Michael Landon. I remember when he was diagnosed with cancer, and I had been praying for him. God had laid him on my heart, so I wrote him a letter to tell him about Jesus. When learned that he had passed away, I wondered if he had gotten my letter. I thought maybe when People Magazine came out, perhaps an article may be included about his life, but I never saw anything. Not long after that I received a phone call from a woman, who said that someone had given her my name and number. She was asking about women's ministries, and Women's AGLOW had given her my name as a contact in New Mexico. She said she had just moved to town, and she told me the name of her relative in town. I told her that I hadn't lived in New Mexico that long, and that I really hadn't been involved with AGLOW since I lived in Virginia. I thought it strange that the ministry would know my name, because I wasn't really known or in leadership, I only attended Bible studies and meetings. We chatted a while, and somehow the conversation turned to prayer for Michael Landon. I told her my story about my burden to pray for him even before he had cancer, about the letter and how I wondered if he'd received Jesus as his Savior. Then she told me that she had been listening to a Christian talk show, and a friend of Michael's had been on the show talking about their friendship. Gavin MacLeod, the actor who played the Captain on the show The Love Boat, was his friend, and he told the talk show host that he had visited Michael before he died, and he had accepted Christ as Lord and Savior. I was ecstatic, and I couldn't believe how good God was to send this lady to me. We finished talking, and I went my day rejoicing. At some point shortly thereafter, I tried to reach this lady again. She had disappeared, and the relative did not exist. I've always thought she was an angel that God had sent especially to me to deliver the message I so desperately needed to hear. 

Although I've always loved movies and used to watch regularly, I have never been a movie star groupie, as many young girls are. I admire talent and character, someone who consistently plays parts that are clean, wholesome, and movies that are moral with life changing story lines. I've only felt the Lord's leading to pray for two actors, one is Michael Landon, and the other I won't say, although over the years his life has changed drastically, so I pray that one day he may meet Jesus. As I was reading back over this story, Holy Spirit reminded me that both men are of Jewish heritage. I'm not Jewish, although I wish I had the honor, but I do have the same privilege that any born-again believer in Christ has, because we share the same heritage as our Jewish brethren. In Romans 11, as well as other places in scripture, Old Testament included, Paul, who is a Jew of all Jews, he says, explains how we have been grafted into the Vine, into the olive tree, a wild olive shoot! I've written about this so many times, and it still excites me today as much as when I read the words and understood fully what I was reading. It's like that for me, and so many have testified of the same, the revelation power of Holy Spirit to shine His light on the truth of God's word. And yet, it is neglected in most churches and in theological seminaries. Why? The Old and New Testament are the same story, just with a mere 400 years in between the two when God is silent. Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever!

In this series, Highway to Heaven, Michael Landon plays an angel who is on assignment on the earth to help people mend their lives. His sidekick is played by Victor French, who was Michael Landon's close friend. He played with him in the Little House on the Prairie series for many years, and then joined him in the next endeavor, both God-inspired, I feel. I know that the pasts of actors is often sullied and sordid, but God is in the business of redeeming us. Sometimes people are touched by God for His service at a very early life, as I was, but over the course of a lifetime, we go through so many troubles, and we often do not have the encouragement we need. As wonderful as both my parents and grandparents were while walking this life, they were not ready for a child like me. I know that now. I also know that God, in His mercy and grace, placed so many people in my path who influenced my life, both those who serve the Lord and those who had not yet decided to follow my amazing Jesus. But God is faithful, even when we are not, and He places opportunities before us. But just as the character Jonathan Smith, the angel in the series played by Michael Landon, was used by God in different situations, this series has had an effect on so many people who choose to see through eyes of grace. The series has covered racism, prejudice for those who are different whether culturally or who have a disability or who are disfigured in some way, a slow learner, those who are unwanted, abandoned, neglected, the elderly, religious persecution by the self-righteous pastors and lay people, plus a vast array of issues of life. Ugly, ugly issues of life. If only, we could truly know God, then we could serve Him better. 

In taking some time away from actively praying or studying the word just to escape the war in the Middle East, Africa, and other locations, or the attacks I am personally experiencing in my life, as well as in the lives of my children, grandchildren, and great-granchildren and friends, I am intentional about how I spend my time. I needed to separate myself from the effects of the ongoing war in my life, so I could relax and hear from the Lord. I have felt like the little ball used in a game of ping-pong that is continuously being batted back and forth and out of bounds, landing in muck and mire, hastily drenched in a flood of water to clean the slop off of it to continue the game. But, it seems that regardless of what I see or listen to, or the people God places in my life in the most mundane times and places, He always has a message He wants me to share. And it is a warning that we as His called can never remain silent. This is the message I am trying to proclaim to the church, but for the most part, the message is being drowned out or deliberately ignored, because it doesn't fit the agenda or the message of the day. I don't understand how we all have a different message, when God is the same today, yesterday, and forever. He is about His Kingdom, not ours; His agenda, not ours; and His glory, not our own. We must hear the battle cry, before it hits home. Sadly, it already is hitting home in churches in the way of early deaths, tragedies, and multiple sicknesses. Some churches have called for prayer, some prayer with fasting, but not for the purpose of seeking God's voice, but for reasons of their own. All good things, but if we want  revival and reformation, we must seek God's face. 

How often in this television series I have heard the words "touch the face of God." Perhaps the series was prophetic in its own way, or maybe the actor wanted to atone for sins of his own. We often rally to causes that hit close to home, the problems we have overcome, or even still battle. But whatever the initial intention, the important thing is that the message is received and changes are made. The reason I felt called to pray for Michael Landon in the first place was the depth of the love, loss, and pain I could see in his eyes, portrayed in the characters he played or those of the other actors who played their part in the stories he wrote. What happened during his lifetime, I believe that God's hand was upon him, and his purpose in life was fulfilled. God calls us to love Him with all our heart, mind, soul, strength and to love our neighbor as ourself. This is also our purpose. Let's touch the face of God today, every day, seeking His will and direction, being purposeful in every breath we take, every step we make. Selah.

Day 140 One Thing I Seek

5/20/2025

One thing I have desired of the LORD, that will I seek: 

that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, 

to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in His temple. 

Psalm 27:4

 

I'm at a loss for words, and yet in writing the words above, I express with my whole heart how I feel right now. When David wrote these words, more than likely, Saul may have been fast on his heels, as David was on the run a lot at the beginning of the call of God on his life. It's never easy to follow Christ, even in America these days. And it makes me wonder how many truly do believe in Him and follow Him wholeheartedly. 

I imagine when I say that I am at a loss for words, many who know me may think that impossible, because I always have something to say. I'm like an effervescent pool, where bubbles of laughter and good words flow from every syllable, no matter how difficult the subject matter may be or how I'm feeling. I am an optimistic person, and I consider myself joyful, and the reason that I can remain joyful is because I try to keep my eyes focused solely on the Captain of the Armies of Heaven. Although my life is fairly structured, I often feel that it is out of control. My days are so full, but I feel as if I get so little accomplished. From the moment I open my eyes in the morning until I lay my head down, I am assimilating information. By the time evening comes, and I am desperately attempting to tie it all together, so that I can make sense of it all, I am falling asleep on my feet. I am always trying to catch up, but no matter how neatly and precisely I write my notes, I am at a loss as to how to piece them together into one clear direction. This is why it is so important for me to sit quietly before the Lord, as long as it takes, but lately, it's not enough. I talk to Abba all day, feel the nudge of Holy Spirit when my moods goes the wrong way; I sleep well, and my dreams are peaceful, even when alarms in Israel go off alerting me to pray. I used to have minute by minute updates on my phone for Voice of the Martyrs and Open Doors, so I'd know in "real time" which country was under fire or being burned, people killed. But they were coming way too often to emotionally cope with, and besides which I wanted actual photos to put on my bulletin board, so I would never forget the faces of my beloved friends. 

When I post on Facebook, it's not the cute photos of family or vacation spots or a blossoming garden, although on a rare occasion you may see a post from New Mexico. My page has become another bulletin board of sorts for me where I post the faces of the hostages, or updates on the war in Israel, Ukraine, or other countries. I post revivals and services I attend in person and online. It's my podium. Now I'm posting my blogs again, but I doubt they get much of an audience on Facebook. That matters little to me, because I'm being obedient by writing, plus it helps me breathe, meditate, and pray. Perhaps that will make it easier to transfer thoughts into book form. I don't know God's plan for that one, but I know it's in the making. 

Yesterday in the Kehilat HaCarmel Worship Watch, I was encouraged as Josie shared that another friend of the ministry, Suzette Hattingh, had been ministering at the church on prayer, and she said "Holy Spirit never has a bad day." She said that Holy Spirit's power working in us enables us to persevere, causing us to hope and be joyful regardless of what's happening. We can go on in the strength of the Lord. That's true, and that's why I try to maintain my focus, regardless of what is being reported as a factual report, or one that is speculative. I can't be responsible for what another thinks or feels or how they report, but I can continue to trust in the One I know. If Holy Spirit is abiding in me, He will make certain that my way is straight and clear. I've had a gift that I don't share with many, but I am able to sense things, and I can see what may not appear to be obvious, because it's veiled. I'm not sure why that is except for the purpose of prayer and intercession. I thank God that He trusts me with the privilege of knowing how to pray, although it may not seem that way to some. I've been invited to prayer meetings where I feel terribly out of place, because the prayers don't appear to be right somehow. I don't know a better way of saying it. But I do hang on to one thing: "...for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day" (2 Timothy 1:12).

Lately, I've been carried on the wings of prayer by Holy Spirit's intercession and have such a sense of peace, I absolutely will not allow anyone or anything to disturb it no matter how many distractions arise. Holy Spirit must feel the same way, as He lets me know if I'm fading in any way. Josie and the other ladies who attend the church, who are watchmen on the wall in Israel, also mentioned a scripture that I mediate on and share as my prayer focus quite often:

"My heart is steadfast, O God,

my heart is steadfast; I will sing and give praise.

Awake, my glory! Awake, lute and harp!

I will awaken the dawn.

Be exalted, O God, above the heavens;

Let Your glory be above all the earth.

Psalm 57:7, 11 

This is just a portion of the scripture that speaks of snares and pits set by the enemy, and I feel that it is always relevant for today's intercession. 

I've been sharing with the readers, I say that optimistically, that songs and melodies play over and over in my head, so I sing quite often, and I dance around the house, especially when I'm cleaning or washing clothes. I listen to music while I write and as I pray and read my Bible. Silence is often good as well, so I can listen to Abba more clearly, but it isn't necessary really, as I hear Him well, or at least I hope I do. My daily devotional 60 Days of Prayer is often attuned with my thoughts of the day. Today the title is Live with Intention, and the scripture is Psalm 90:12: Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. The short study exhorts us to value each day, setting priorities, transferring mundane or ordinary parts of our day into moments of grace. That sounds uplifting, doesn't it?! 

The Hebrew month of Sivan will be coming up; it is the third months of the Hebrew calendar, and it marks the month of harvest and ripening of grain. It is a time of joy, and their celebration of Shavuot, which celebrates the giving of the Torah by Moses on Mt Sinai, parallels the Christian celebration of Pentecost. On Pentecost we celebrate the baptism by fire of Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, promised by Jesus when he ascended to heaven. As believers, Holy Spirit comes to live within us, as we abide in Christ, make our home with Him. When we are born again, we receive Holy Spirit, but this is more. We need a fresh outpouring of His Spirit regularly so we may be empowered, emboldened to go out and spread the Good News of Jesus Christ without fear. People are so hungry for truth and hope in a world that has been so crippled by fear and evil's design.

In closing, my prayer calendar had this to say about prayer:

"Prayer should be the means by which I, at all time, receive all that I need, and, for this reason, be my daily refuge, my daily consolation, my daily joy, my source of rich and inexhaustible joy in life."         

 - O Hallesby

And so it is and ever shall be. Selah. 

Day 139 Lay It Down

5/19/2025

"You alone are holy, You alone are worthy,

You deserve the glory, Jesus You alone." 

 

I'm still in a state of wonder lost in the majesty of God. I've saturated my day with worship songs and choruses. While I cut grass today, the above phrases kept coming to my lips in song, over and over, I just could not get the lyrics out of my head. "Holy, holy, holy, Lord; God of power and might. Heaven and earth are filled with Your glory. Hosanna, Hosanna. In the highest!" Imagine what my neighbors thought seeing a crazy woman singing around her yard. Well, at least I didn't start dancing, this time! Nor did I walk the boundaries of the yard telling the enemy to take a hike or many other things one may see me doing to establish peace in Jesus' Name to my home dedicated to His service. Poor Daniel has had to listen to me several times today talking about everything the Lord has been sharing with me from last night's service with Jesus Image, along with today's study of the history of the Nicene Creed with the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem. He almost made it to bed before Mario Murillo's Tent crusade in Tyler, Texas began, but it was a down home style Pentecostal meeting, and I was home! There's always tomorrow! More of the same plus some! God is moving in the hearts of so many, so if you are burdened, take heart and have faith in Jesus.

Yesterday I shared a taste of a testimony given by a young man attending Jesus School at Jesus Image in Florida. After the message, Pastor Michael and the visiting Pastor, Brian Guerin from Ascend Church in Georgia, prayed over the students. There was one young lady over whom he spoke words that touched my heart as they were familiar, words the Lord had spoken it to me. Hearing it from Michael's mouth was a confirmation. Obviously, she had been dealing with some heavy matters, and he spoke a word from God to her. Now whether he knew her situation or if God spoke it as a word of knowledge I don't know, but it ministered to her, and to me. It was a true word from God, because it was scriptural. He told her she'd been carrying things that were not hers to bear, she was never supposed to carry them, and God said to "lay it down." As she began to cry, so did I. I've been laboring over some family situations, asking God what I could do to fix it. I heard those same words, similar ones I had spoken to two ladies, that I shared in a previous blog, who needed to stop trying to help God. But this word last night went so much deeper for me. We as parents, particularly mothers, so ache for our children when they suffer. I'm a regular bleeding heart wearing my heart on my sleeve, or so both my sons have labeled me more than once, because I care about everyone. But, my maternal love goes so much deeper. After months of asking the Lord what I can do or say to make a difference in my children's lives, to help them see that their lives can be different, He said "Lay it down. It was never yours to bear." The enemy had put me on such a guilt and shame trip, that this helplessness really wanted to cling to me. I'm grateful how God loves me, and He uses situations with others to speak words I desperately need to hear to me. As followers of Christ, we are made to think by some that we continue to carry our children their entire lives. This simply is not true. When a child becomes an adult, they are free to make their own decisions. If they need help, we help, but we never enable. Perhaps this is why this feeling of defeat has clung to me over all these years. I feel as if I have enabled my child to remain stuck in her illness, only seeking help as she allows. Over all the years I have assisted her, supported, yet I have been treated as if I have not helped her or if I abandoned her in her illness, but this has never been the case. She has rejected all offers of help, and it saddens me. I don't really care what any person thinks about me, only what God thinks, because I have always been there. Even now, although I am here, it was not for my own sake that I moved, even though I needed a home, but God told me it was time for me to come back. It was not an overnight decision. It took ten years for God to get things ready. Then He spoke again, and He sent confirmation, so now I have learned to wait to hear God's gentle voice before I make life-altering decisions. When I pray for others who have decisions to make, I always point them to the scriptures, especially the words spoke by Isaiah 30:21: "And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, 'This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.'"

Brian Guerin shared in the evening service at Jesus Image on Sunday about loving Jesus, becoming like Him, because one day He's coming back for the church that He calls His bride. So our two fold goal is to know Him and love Him and second, to become like Him for Him. When we follow Jesus we will walk as He walked, and this means we will suffer. In the book of James, he begins by identifying himself as a bondservant (slave) of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ in the first verse. Then in verses 2-4 he says, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing." God allows us to go through things, so that our faith in Him is tested, and if we endure the test the reward will be patience, so that it has its perfect, complete, lacking nothing work in us. In essence, we learn our reliance is on the Lord who knows the plans He has for us (Jeremiah 29:11). He says to count it all joy when trials come, and they will. Jesus said so in John 16:33: "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulations; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." Brian reminded us that Jesus is returning for a perfect bride, and He won't marry an impatient bride. So, in verse 4 the words "but let patience have its perfect work" suggest that we are to embrace this trial with joy. I'll let you chew on that one, but it makes perfect sense to me. I can honestly say that all the tests and trials I have encountered in my lift have had its perfect work in me. I would not want to repeat it, but I am different because of it. 

I won't leave you hanging...let's take a look at 2 Corinthians 1:3-5: "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ." Basically, what this portion of scripture is saying is that when we suffer and go through troubles, hardships, tribulations, Holy Spirit, as the God of comfort, helps us overcome and walks with us through the process. We in turn help others when they go through difficult patches, because we empathize by our experiences, so we are able to help others. It's all about Jesus, and sharing our hope and comfort with others, as Christ instructed and demonstrated.

Doesn't that make you want to sing and praise God?! We have so much for which to be grateful.

Something to ponder:

"Behold, God is great, and

we do not know Him."

Job 36:36

"As for the Almighty, we cannot find Him;

He is excellent in power."

Job 37:23

Day 138 "Lions and Tigers and Bears, Oh My!"

5/18/2025

"Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter

of our faith." 

Hebrews 12:2

Sundays are always a "mixed bag" of interesting "goings on" for me. I usually follow my every day pattern with quiet time, devotions, five minutes with Pastor Jack for the verse of the day, and the global prayer call, but there is nothing routine when it comes to His time. But then, I always begin my day with thanks to Abba for giving me another day to serve Him. Just thinking about my mornings tires me out sometimes. Recently, I've had to shut down my phone because of continual texts received from a group of ladies who love to chat, especially in early mornings, sometimes continuing throughout the day. I really don't respond, because I really don't participate much anymore. It's been almost six months since I painted a doll face or knitted a stitch. I guess my life took a different turn after Christmas. I miss the ladies in both groups, but I felt as if I was being pulled another way. Things happen, and perhaps, I'll return one day, unless I get another direction to go. Like I said, my life does not follow a pattern, except God's, that is. He calls the shots, and I like it that way.

I've been attending morning worship at my parents' church across the road, and I find it to be quite refreshing, as Pastor John practices expository style teaching, walking through the scriptures, line by line. I believe in studying in context, so line by line is definitely the way to walk through the word for clear understanding and application. Yesterday Pastor Dustin walked us through the next portion of Paul's epistle, Galatians, a book I have found myself immersed in recently. There are others, but it never ceases to amaze me how God puts the right portions of scripture in my face when I need them. So many times as a pastor is expounding upon a certain thought, I will no sooner say the words to myself, than they are repeated by the one teaching. This is a little scary at times, but I guess it's God's way of confirming things He wants to make sure I am clear on. I ask Abba a lot of questions, and He is always faithful to answer me.

Galatians is Paul's rebuke to the church, as he has discovered that the Gentiles who believed on the Name of Jesus and were saved are now being told by false prophets that they must obey the Laws of Moses. I know I've spoken on this subject before, but it is worth sharing again, because there may be someone who is confused. If someone tells you something contrary to what you have been taught by your pastor, the first thing is ask your pastor, whom you trust for clarification. Also, it is essential that you read the word for yourself, pray, and ask Father God to show you the truth in His word. He answers those prayers, as He longs for close relationship with those who love Him. In short, Paul had to deal with this very subject about requirements for Gentile believers in Acts 15. The Gentiles were being told that they must be circumcised and keep the law. Paul consulted with the Apostles in Jerusalem lead by Peter, who sent a report to the brethren Gentiles saying:

The Jerusalem Decree

²² Then it pleased the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas, namely, Judas who was also named Barsabas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren.

²³ They wrote this letter by them:

The apostles, the elders, and the brethren,

To the brethren who are of the Gentiles in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia:

Greetings.

²⁴ Since we have heard that some who went out from us have troubled you with words, unsettling your souls, saying, “You must be circumcised and keep the law”—to whom we gave no such commandment— ²⁵ it seemed good to us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, ²⁶ men who have risked their lives for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. ²⁷ We have therefore sent Judas and Silas, who will also report the same things by word of mouth. ²⁸ For it seemed good to the Holy Spirit, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things: ²⁹ that you abstain from things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from sexual immorality. If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well.

Farewell.

In this time as we witness prophecies being played out, there will be more people trying to bring confusion and division into the church. It is very important that we attend a church that teaches the inerrant word of God, the whole counsel of the word, and it is really important that we get back to Judeo-Christian roots and understand the importance of Israel and stand in solidarity with her. Sadly, this is not taught in the scriptures, so it brings misunderstanding. It is the same in the Jewish church, but thankfully, there are many Messianic Jewish believers who have received Jesus Christ as Savior or Messiah. This is another discussion, so I won't linger.

There are some believers, including pastors who are taking the time to look for others who are not preaching and teaching the word accurately, by their interpretation. I've been praying about this a lot, because since moving back, it has been very difficult for me to find a church. I know that God is directing me, but I have observed many things. When I first moved back to Virginia and was looking for a church, I was led back to the church we left when we moved to New Mexico in 1987, except it had a different pastor, and a different name. I sensed the feeling of "being home" when I was visiting for the first time and walked into the sanctuary, where I met a lady who knew me from back then, and the "seeming coincidences started coming. But we know that there are no coincidences with God, just divine appointments. But I was not meant to stay. At least, not then. The massacre in Israel happened on March 7, 2023, and my life changed with the daily prayer calls that did not allow me to travel far else I'd miss important information. This is why I started going across the road, and I am glad that I did. It's quite a difference going from Pentecostal worship to Baptist, but God has shown me that I am to focus on Him and trust Him. Besides Pastor John is doing a wonderful job in offering so much training and support to all ages, particularly to the men, so that they are equipped to be leaders in their homes. My parents would be so proud of the man Pastor John has grown to be.

It's amusing to me when people fear what they do not understand. Take Baptists versus Pentecostals, there's a world of difference in the way they worship, and in the way the gifts of the Spirit flow. As I started to say, there are people who make great efforts to prove that other churches are doing wrong things, and they are the leading authority on how God wants things. Sometimes it gets to be like a witch hunt on YouTube as someone pointed out to me. It does remind me of The Wizard of Oz when the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and Dorothy are in the woods, and begin to worry about lions, tigers and bears in the forest. So they tiptoe through the woods, carefully looking for any creature lurking behind a tree. Hence, in one voice, they repeat, "Lions and tigers and bears, Oh My!" as they cautiously walk along the path. Fearful of what they may find. This is the way it seems to me. A lot of time wasted trying to discredit others, fearful someone may be led astray, while children are left to grope alone in the darkness on their own. We have to do better. I'm always saying that too. 

My afternoon included a walk with a friend, and a short rest before I listened in on Pastor Greg at Harvest for my Group study, and later, I listened to part 3 of Jack Hibb's message on government. In the evening I listened to Jesus Image's Sunday evening service, and I am so glad I did. There was a wonderful time of sharing testimonies, and one young man spoke of his life before and after Christ opened his eyes to the life he now knows. He literally fell in love with Jesus, which I understand, but it is so wonderful when I see a young person speaking so deeply, weeping before the Lord. I'm sure there is someone out there scrutinizing this church and pastor as well, but let me just say, this one is the real deal. I love worshiping with them, hearing the testimonies, and the teachings. Nothing lurking in their woods, unless it's the Spirit of the Living God. I hope many encounter the Lion of the Tribe of Judah.

Day 137 Smiles

 

5/17/2025

"A merry heart does good like a medicine...."

Proverbs 17:22

Nicknames are common in the South, and they are generally reflective of a person's personality or a physical characteristic or the use of initials in place of full names. I've had a few given to me over my lifetime. My earliest recollection is being called Linnie Sue by my grandfather as a shortened version of Linda Susan. I've never allowed anyone else to call me Linnie Sue, because my papa was very dear to me, and it was all his, just between the two of us. Of course my grandmother called me Linda Susan once, but that was not a good thing as I was caught doing something wrong. Full names when spoken in like manner can bear consequences.

When I was an adolescent, my parents loved to take us to Alexandria to visit our great aunts, my grandmother's sisters. I loved visiting my cousins, and sometimes we'd go to the community swimming pool. I was only twelve, and always self-conscious of wearing a bathing suit. Girls were more modestly dressed in those days. The lifeguard was still in high school, and he had a raccoon tail on the antenna of his car. He was very friendly towards me, and he started calling me Smiley, because I smiled all the time. Later on in my 20's the Smiley turned to Sunshine, again because I was always smiling and happy. That nickname hung on the longest, and I hope it still reflects my personality. I tend to be a happy person, content with my life, but joyful because Jesus is the best part of who I am.

Today I decided to watch fun movies, silly really, but I'm a great fan of Johnny Depp. So today, off and on, I watched Pirates of the Caribbean, all five, but not at one sitting. In fact, I started on Friday mid-day, and then picked it back up in the evening today. I had never seen the fifth installment, so now I'm left hanging for the release of the sixth one. Who knows when that may be or if it will be. Regardless, I enjoyed the sheer nonsense of watching Captain Jack Sparrow in his charades, escaping the gallows, and always getting out of fixes in the most bizarre manner. A favorite line in most of the episodes is "Do you think he plans these things or makes it up as he goes along?" Whatever he does, he manages to outsmart even himself at times, and that in itself is laughable.

Laughter really is good medicine as the Proverbs says, and it has always served me well. I see so many people who are malcontent about one thing or another, and I can see the wrinkles forming just from the pouting mouths. I think I much prefer laugh lines, as they tend to pull the features upwards, rather than sagging downward. My son loves to tell me that I'm looking more like my papa each day, meaning I have a "turkey goozle" neck. He's so flattering, and it really helps my self image. I had a friend many years ago who used to do facial exercises daily in order to avoid the turkey effect or any other drooping as she aged. I tried it, but it made me laugh, so I stuck with occasional mud masques, but I don't think they helped much either. I guess I'll have to reconsider the facial exercises. At least laughter pulls my mouth upward, so perhaps a few rounds of laughter will be more effective if I avoid looking in the mirror while pursing my lips and jutting my chin out. There's not much satisfaction in watching that done.

Oh, well, that's about all the wisdom I have to share in this sitting, and the time is catching up with me again as the hour is late, and it will soon be time to rest up for another fun day. I'll try to keep it light whatever I decide to do after attending church. I need to hunt down my cat, Alex, and try to get the berries out of his fur. He loves to sleep under the bushes and roll in the leaves. His winter coat still needs to be thinned, so it should be interesting trying to get him to sit still long enough for me to clean him up. He's quite the adventurer, so he's always lounging in someone's bushes when he's not looking for his next meal in the field. How I love that cat!!