Monday, August 25, 2025

Day 236 Free to Be Me

 

8/24/2025

You were bought at a price;

do not become slaves of men."

1 Corinthians 7:23

 

This is the day that the Lord has made, and I will be glad and rejoice in it! Bright sunshiny day, cool morning breeze, and a wonderful message this morning at church! This was the start of my day, and as the afternoon progressed, things took a little turn in another direction, but all was not lost. 

It seems that the message of the "day," meaning the focus of the times, appears to be making sure that our motives are pure. It feels as if a day cannot pass without reading a scripture or a devotional, or hearing a message that does not mention the necessity of examining our hearts and minds. I must admit that the way the wind shifts in my life, I need to be kept on my toes. 

In the church at Corinth Paul is addressing problems associated with a church born from a pagan society. Divisions among members within the church have been reported to Paul who is addressing the contentions among them concerning lifestyles in the Corinthian Church: "factions, lawsuits, immorality, questionable practices, abuse of the Lord's Supper, and spiritual gifts." In Chapter 7 Paul is instructing the church to live as they were called, from slavery as non-believers to freedom in Christ. In short, we are not called to be slaves to man or his opinions. We are called to obedience and service to Christ, living in conformity to His will. 

Pastor Jack was addressing the subject of society today, and how there are two behaviors or mentalities today, either "dog eat dog" or "keep the peace." Way too many times this mentality invades our churches, and, as I mentioned before, people are watching for authenticity as the Gospel of Jesus Christ is being taught and lived out. I'm glad that my older son believes that my character is revealed in my personality pretty much all the time, as he put it. What you see is what you get! I do have my days though, and I can roll my eyes with the best of them. But, over the years, as I have walked closer to Jesus, His character has rubbed off on me. If one abides in the presence of the Almighty Son, His light envelops any shade of darkness. Isn't that true with our friends? If we hang with the right people, hopefully we grow to be honorable and responsible adults, teaching these traits to our children, who pass it along to others. That's the way God meant for things to be in the circle of life. And even if we do smudge things along the way, all is not lost. With Christ, all things are possible, and remember Romans 8:28. God does in fact turn all things around for good to those who love HIM, and to those who are called according to HIS purpose. Let me just say, for the umpteenth time, HIS ways are much, much better.

Jack mentioned that people are too hung up on "likes" on Facebook or other social media posts, but honestly, I don't care about that stuff any longer, or even if anyone reads my posts. When I post, I do it for God. At times, I put some whimsical stuff on my page, as I don't want anyone to think I can't be humorous, but then, if someone truly knows me, they'd know that I am constantly laughing at myself. This may surprise some, but when I was 12 years of age a stranger called me Smiley, and since that time others have done the same. My favorite flower is a Sunflower, because it is bright and whimsical. In fact, as a friend reminded me not too long ago, yellow has always been my favorite color! But, please, please, please, never give me yellow yarn for knitting!! It doesn't make me happy at all. In fact, I get a bit loony and cross-eyed! And no, that is not my normal appearance, although...!

Actually, I find that God has a great sense of humor, besides the fact that He created me. I am unique, let me just say. Any doubts ask my younger son and my friend, Wayne. After creating everything, God looked at His creation and saw that it was good! Then He rested. But, man couldn't handle perfection and had to listen to that big-mouthed snake. And there you have it, major behavior changes. Fortunately, not all bad changes, but some mischievous and creative challenges that bring a smile or outright laughter to His heart. I'm so glad He loves me as I am, saggy, crinkled, and frayed! When I was seeing patients for the first time in their homes, I always wanted to put them at ease. To them I held the power of life and death in my hands as far as helping them or not. But I always made it a point to say that I was in their home, and there was no reason to be anxious. Many had already checked me out before I stepped foot in the house, because people talk, remember. Thankfully, the reports were always promising, and I appreciate the trust and respect shown to me. I miss them all, love them all, and I pray they are well. Before I had a chance to step over their doorstep, something always happened to make them laugh, as I could be a little anxious myself. Plus, I can be a scatter brain or a klutz. Once I stepped on the hem of my long skirt as I went to stand up, and I pulled it down. I was skinnier back then, with a smaller panza! Fortunately, the tribal leader had his back turned!! So once more, God intervened, but I think He had a good chuckle. I've been more careful when I stand up since then, but my skirts are still just as long. In fact, I still have some of those skirts. Some things last forever! Another one of my strengths, according to my son, I'm tenacious!

The lesson I am trying to share is simply to be yourself, better - who God created you to be. I hope that person isn't afraid to be known and to share the gifts that God has given to each one. Don't allow anyone to make fun of you, or bully you, or confuse you with that age old question: "Did God really say...?" Do not be afraid to speak out for truth, as the days are short. We may live in this world, but we are not part of the worldWe are strangers, passing through until we reach our permanent home. But while we're here, sojourning with others, we are responsible citizens wherever God has planted us. Jesus said to occupy until His return, so we don't have time to be silent or afraid. The lives of others are hanging in the balance.    

Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt: Blank lined journal with quote by John Muir 

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