Day 80 Live Life Well

 

3/21/2026

 “Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our 

common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you 

exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once 

for all delivered to the saints.” 

Jude 3

 

Yesterday morning after a time of refreshment with the Lord, while checking my mail for prayer and news updates pertaining to the ministry, I happened upon the news that Chuck Norris, age 86, died 3/19/2026 after a sudden hospitalization from a medical emergency. The family did not elaborate and asked for privacy.When a celebrity passes away I am always interested in their spiritual condition, but with this man, I already knew about his legacy of faith. I knew that at the moment he passed into eternity all of heaven was applauding his homecoming. It's a victory for a child of God to pass into the eternal arms of Our Father, and although the family realize he's living his best and eternal life now, a life without sickness or pain, and without having to endure any of the chaos in this world as it intensifies before the imminent return of our Savior, they grieve his loss. His wife, Gena, especially grieves the passing of a life partner, one who shared every living, breathing moment for so many long years. What a legacy!

Over the past few months, almost daily I'd see a commercial pop up on my screen with Chuck talking about the new health regimen he and Gena were following that added so much energy and new vitality to his life. He was still practicing karate and exercising daily and living life enthusiastically and gratefully, so it was surprising to learn of his sudden decline and death. The important thing is that he lived life, and he loved life, and he shared that love with everyone. Greg Laurie posted a brief description of his time spent with Chuck, as did Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Donald J. Trump. It is significant to me that he was such a great supporter of Israel, and this is because he understood covenant and was acquainted with the whole counsel of the Word of God. In 1990 he started a program for kids called Kickstart Kids, his own Education Karate Program recognized by the Texas Education Agency, "a physical education program that teaches character through karate." Personally, I will remember him in his great movie Delta Force and the television series, Walker, Texas Ranger. Besides being a karate champion, he was also a veteran having served in the United States Air Force. He also was named an honorary Marine for his support of the military. He will be missed, but one day, we who wait will see him again.

Today's news reported that Nicholas Brenden, age 54, who starred as Xander in Buffy, Vampire Slayer series, passed away of natural causes in his sleep. According to the news report, Brenden had problems with substance abuse and mental health issues, and a history of a heart attack, a congenital heart defect, and a diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome. His family posted the following:

 “We are heartbroken to share the passing of our brother and son, Nicholas Brendon. He passed in his sleep of natural causes. Most people know Nicky for his work as an actor and for the characters he brought to life over the years. In recent years Nicky has found his passion in painting and art. Nicky loved to share his enthusiastic talent with his family, friends and fans. He was passionate, sensitive, and endlessly driven to create. Those who truly knew him understood that his art was one of the purest reflections of who he was. While it’s no secret that Nicholas had struggles in the past, he was on medications and treatment to manage his diagnosis and he was optimistic about the future at the time of his passing. Our family asks for privacy during this time as we grieve his loss and celebrate the life of a man who lived with intensity, imagination, and heart. Thank you to everyone who has shown love and support.”

I did discover that he had exposure to Christian and Mormon beliefs, and that he had a tattoo of a cross on his shoulder. An article also said that he no longer attended church. Sadly that is becoming the norm. I was looking at Brenden's artwork posted on his website, and it mostly consists of photographs he has taken, generally with one person walking down the street or people alone. It's almost as if he understood the loneliness felt by those who feel alone in this world. It's always sad to hear of the passing of someone who is passionate about the gifts that God has given us to share with others. His family shared that "his art was one of the purest reflections of who he was." My prayer is that He met the living God who loved him enough to die for him so he could have eternal life. Only God sees the heart of another and knows their deepest and truest selves. I pray that this young man met Jesus face to face today, because without Jesus life has no true meaning: "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?" (Luke 9:25) 

Day 79 Tarry...until!

 

3/20/2026

"In the midst of all our zeal in the work of the Church,

of all our faithfulness in preaching and conversation with

the people, we lack that ceaseless prayer which has attached to it

the sure promise of the Spirit and the power from on high."

Andrew Murray

"Tarry...until ye be endued with power from on high."

Luke 24:49   

 

The morning began quite energetically, listening to wonderful worship music while enjoying a quiet moment before the busyness of the day. I woke up feeling much better, my skin feeling less itchy, so hopefully the medication and Epsom salt baths are helping. It would be nice to know what exactly caused this fiasco resulting in this excessive rash, but there are still weeds to cut and grass to be cut, so I have very little choice but to cover up every inch of skin and finish the job, unless I can find someone who actually wants to do yard work. In spite of this recent attack, I generally enjoy being outdoors, working in the yard, cutting the grass, burning the branches and grass. I've always enjoyed nature, as I find it very relaxing, unless of course bad things, like the attack of the thorn monster occurs. Still, it's about the only time I get to visit with my neighbor, who is younger than I, so she is still working. I remember when I worked long hours that the last thing I wanted to do was visit, but then I traveled, and I always had computer work to complete. The main thing was that I lived alone, so I didn't have to schedule meals or do anything unless I wanted to do it. I've enjoyed having my son around, and I am becoming used to his cat Mia who is a house cat, and even the visits from Alex, who is becoming quite fond of sacking out on my bed all afternoon after prowling all night. Cats are indeed very self-centered.

The world condition appears to be rapidly imploding, and it seems as if people are turning against each other, so many things are at a standstill. I am not referring only to the political arena or the geopolitical one. I am very grieved by the silence of the Church, that seems to turn a blind eye and deaf ear to speaking out on matters that go against the Word of God. Very little is being said from the pulpit about Israel or even about challenging matters in our own State government. Whenever I come into the room when the television is one I hear ads attacking our sitting President, twisting his words, and deceiving the public into believing what they are saying is true and for the welfare of our State or country. For four years we had Christian leaders in our State government, but now the opposite is true. Even things that were promised, were immediately changed the moment they were put into office, and in an extreme way. I felt as if I needed to ask God for forgiveness, repenting of my lack of prayer for my State government leaders, because I was too busy in prayer meetings for the federal government and Israel, and I didn't pray each day for the Christian leaders in our State at the time. Of course I prayed, but many times I am so involved with what is going on in Israel that other matters take a back seat. As intercessors we need to ensure that we have sufficient time alone with God asking Him to set our pace for the day, not just hurriedly taking calls. I feel confident that being a watchman for Israel is my call as an intercessor, but I also know that praying for all in leadership is just as important, especially in these last days. We are in a time in history where it is becoming increasingly obvious to those who have not bothered to concern themselves with daily happenings, that we are in a huge battle. To clarify matters we are engaged in a spiritual battle between good and evil, and unless the Church wakes up and uses the authority Jesus gave to her, and unless pastors educate their sheep on what is happening in the world and how we as Christians need to respond according to God's word, then matters concerning the welfare of our nation will continue to decline.

Although I have deep feelings about the outcome of the 2020 elections, it is actually a blessing in disguise, as God knew what the future would hold. God strategically gave President Trump four years to prepare for his current position as our Commander in Chief, and the time has allowed him to become closer to the Lord. It has also allowed time for the truth to be uncovered, and hopefully justice will eventually prevail. His current administration has also been strategically groomed and placed in their positions, but sadly, the process of approving the right man or woman for the position has been seriously hindered by the opposing party. It seems such a sad turn of events when a nation is unable to get along, especially with the current situations in our world. 

With regard to the war in Israel, what is happening is prophetic, and God is the One who puts men into positions and takes them out. God's hand is on everything that happens, and we need to draw closer to God in our quiet times so that we are clearly able to discern the voice of God. The Lord commands us to pray for our leaders in 1 Timothy 2:1-2: "Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence." Regardless of who is sitting in positions in leadership, we are told to pray for all leaders. God does not want any man to perish, but He wants all to come to eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. Our prayers are important, and although God does not need anyone's help in accomplishing His will on earth, He desire a relationship with us and our obedience. Prayer is powerful, and it can change the course of a nation.

Day 78 Nisan - First Month

 

3/19/2026

"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word

was with God, and the Word was God."

John 1:1  

 

Traditionally, on the Jewish calendar, today marks the first day of the new year of Nisan, the beginning of God's redemptive calendar, a year of new beginnings. In Exodus 12:1-2 scripture reveals God's plan for His chosen people Israel.

"Now the LORD spoke to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt, saying, 'This month shall be your beginning of the months; it shall be the first month of the year to you.'"

The Lord then gave Moses and Aaron instructions for this night, as God was preparing for the exodus of His people from Egypt. He gave Moses instructions for the people for their first Passover that is still practiced today in remembrance of the day God delivered His people from the bondage of slavery in Egypt. It reminds them also of the miracles He performed for Pharaoh who did not heed the message, therefore, facing the judgment and consequences of his sin.

The exact instructions for preparation for Passover were given to Moses who in turn shared with the people. Summarizing the verses to follow ahead, they were told that on the tenth day of the month of Nisan, every man would take a lamb for each household, a spotless male lamb free from any disease or impurities. They were told to keep the lamb until the fourteenth day,  then at twilight the entire camp is to kill the lamb and take some of the blood and apply it to the two doorposts and the lintel of the houses where they are to eat it. The blood would protect them from being destroyed as the death angel went through Egypt killing the first born male humans and animal. This was the final miracle God performed, as Pharaoh did not heed God's command to let His people go. The people were instructed to roast the lamb on the fire and to eat it with unleavened bread and with bitter herbs, dressed with a walking stick in their hands.

The month of Nisan is also significant, because it marks the completion of the tabernacle God instructed Moses to build so that His Presence would be with them.

"And it came to pass in the first month of the second year, on the first day of the month, that the tabernacle was raised up." (Exodus 40:17)

"Then the cloud covered the tabernacle of meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle." (Exodus 40:34)

This is the first time that God visibly manifested His Presence to the people since the Garden of Eden when He walked with them in the garden before the fall.This is a sign of redemption and refreshing where God allowed the people to know that He would not leave them, He was going with them. It is the same for us today, He promises to never leave us nor forsake us. 

Today believers in Christ have access to the throne of God only through the shed blood of Jesus Christ. Few people understand the power of the blood of Jesus that cleanses us from all unrighteousness, and it is only through His blood that we can boldly approach the throne of grace. The observance of this feast day of Passover annually is a day of realignment. God has established other times, other seasons and feasts to observe. These observances are called appointed times, some mandatory, and all to be carried out as God instructed Moses when he was on the mountain for forty days and nights. 

The month of Nisan is also significant because the meaning of it is not only rooted in the past, but it is a foreshadowing of the future. In Ezekiel 43:7, God said to the prophet Ezekiel:

"Son of man, this is the place of My throne and the place of the soles of My feet, where I will dwell in the midst of the children of Israel forever. No more shall the house of Israel defile My holy name, they nor their kings, by their harlotry or with the carcasses of their kings on their high places." 

The tabernacle God speaks of will not be like the ones built by human hands. In Ezekiel 47 God speaks of a temple sitting on His holy hill where water, flowing from beneath the threshold will be healing waters with trees lining both sides that bring healing and life.

"Then he brought me back to the door of the temple; and there was water flowing from under the threshold of the temple toward the east, for the front of the temple faced east; the water was flowing from under the right side of the temple, south of the alter. He brought me out by way of the north gate, and led me around on the outside to the outer gateway that faces east; and there was water, running out on the right side." (Ezekiel 47:1-2)

"He said to me, 'Son of man, have you seen this?' Then he brought me and returned me to the bank of the river. When I returned, there, along the bank of the river, were very many trees on one side and the other. Then he said to me: 'This water flows toward the eastern region, goes down into the valley, and enters the sea. When it reaches the sea, its waters are healed. And it shall be that every living thing that moves, wherever the rivers go, will live." (Ezekiel 47:6-9)

The entire chapter should be read as there is much more contained within the verses. When one enters the temple through one gate, they exit the other. This is reminiscent of the new birth of salvation, where we enter in as the old man and become transformed into the image or character of God. The depth of the waters is significant in that the further out one goes, the depth increases. God gave me a vision of the new temple, and He instructed me to go 1000 cubits. At the time I didn't understand. When I heard 1000 cubits I had no idea what He meant, until I referenced this verse, and I realized that, for me, it meant the further I step out in obedience the deeper my faith and spiritual understanding or growth becomes. For intercessors the month of Nisan is a reminder that God appoints the time and the seasons, and when we come before Him to pray for the new month, called Rosh Chodesh, we come to listen, worship, and realign with His purpose, His covenant, moving forward in a new beginning, a new direction. We do not remain the same, we return renewed, refreshed, and transformed. 

The study of the prophetic meaning of the months, the appointed time, the language of the children of Israel is so beautiful as God leads to greater and greater depth and understanding of His plan and purpose for all who are called by His Name. I feel so wonderfully blessed to be grafted into the covenant with God's chosen people. Abiding in His Presence, sitting at the Master's feet, brings deep refreshment to my soul and an overwhelming, all-consuming desire to know Him more. May we all learn to come and dwell in His Presence and be made brand new, wholly His, healed forever by the living waters and the blood of our precious Jesus Christ.  

Day 76 A Mother's Prayer

 

3/17/2026

 "Go in peace, and the God of Israel

grant your petition which you have asked of Him."

1 Samuel 1:17

 

When Mary, Mother of Jesus, learned that she was to bear the Savior of the world, she prayed the following prayer in Luke 1:46-55:

"My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; for behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed. For He who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is His name. And His mercy is on those who fear Him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He has put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich He has sent away empty. He has helped His servant Israel, in remembrance of His mercy, as He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever."

Going back in history to the time of the judges, after the death of Joshua, the great general of God's army, there was a man named Elkanah, an Ephraimite, who had two wives, Hannah, and Peninnah. Peninnah had children, but Hannah's womb had been closed by the LORD, according to scripture. Of course, she was the ridicule of Peninnah, who had sons and daughters. Each year they traveled to Shiloh to worship and sacrifice to the Lord. It was a time of great celebration and feasting, and each year Elkanah gave gifts to his wives and their children. Sadly, Hannah only received one gift, although scripture says it was a double portion. Still, Hannah wept bitterly. One year, deeply grieving, rather than share in the feasting, she went to the temple to pray. Hannah was so distress that she bargained with God:

"Then she made a vow and said, 'O LORD of hosts, if You will indeed look on the affliction of Your maidservant and remember me, and not forget Your maidservant, but will give Your maidservant a male child, then I will give him to the LORD all the days of his life, and no razor shall come upon his head.'" (1 Samuel 1:11).

At that time Eli was the priest, and when he saw her grieving and crying in anguish, he accused her of being drunk, because he could see her lips moving, but she was silently praying in her heart. She corrected him as follows:

"But Hannah answered and said, 'No, my lord. I am a woman of sorrowful spirit. I have drunk neither wine nor intoxicating drink, but have poured out my soul before the LORD.. Do not consider your maidservant a wicked woman, for out of the abundance of my complaint and grief I have spoken until now.' Then Eli answered and said, 'Go in peace,, and the God of Israel grant your petition which you have asked of Him.' And she said, 'Let your maidservant find favor in your sight.' So the woman went her way and ate, and her face was no longer sad." (1 Samuel 1:15-18)

So Hannah accepted the word of the priest, so she happily returned to the feast and ate. When they returned home, she conceived, and true to her word to the LORD, she had a baby boy, naming him Samuel, and once he was weaned, she returned him to the temple, because of her vow. Samuel became Eli's apprentice, and eventually he was the last judge of Israel. Like Mary, Hannah offered a prayer of praise and thanksgiving to the LORD:

"And Hannah prayed and said: 

'My heart rejoices in the LORD; my horn is exalted in the LORD. I smile at my enemies, because I rejoice in Your salvation. No one is holy like the LORD, for there is none besides You, nor is there any rock like our God. Talk no more so very proudly; let no arrogance come from your mouth, for the LORD is the God of knowledge; and by Him actions are weighed. The bows of the mighty men are broken, and those who stumbled are girded with strength. Those who were full have hired themselves out for bread, and the hungry have ceased to hunger. Even the barren has borne seven, and she who has many children has become feeble. The LORD kills and makes alive; He brings down to the grave and brings up. The LORD makes poor and makes rich; He brings low and lifts up. He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the beggar from the ash heap, to set them among princes and make them inherit the throne of glory. For the pillars of the earth are the LORD's and He has set the world upon them. He will guard the feet of His saints, but the wicked shall be silent in darkness. For by strength no man shall prevail. The adversaries of the LORD shall be broken in pieces; from heaven He will thunder against them. The LORD will judge the ends of the earth. He will give strength to His king, and exalt the horn of His anointed.'"  (1 Samuel 2:l-10)

The prayers of mothers and fathers are very important. I touched on that previously about the importance of the father's role in the home. Training our children is very important, teaching them what the word of God says in response to the world's questions or behavior. How I wish everyone would consult God in all matters, but especially in training up our children, being the role model they so badly need. It is important as husband and wife to understand the Biblical standards for this relationship as well. Children mimic what they see, actions not so much as words. Today young people are running back to church to find authenticity, and they are tired of lies. This is a clear mandate for the church to make their election sure.

My children loved to go to church and being involved in activities such as Sunday School, Bible Quizzing, boys and girls individual groups, and Daniel even attended a Christian academy for a period of time; however, that did not work out too well, sad to say. Today, however, because of things that happened, he does not want to attend church. I pray that he changes his mind, because fellowship is very important, and good friends and right relationships can be found at church, if the church is teaching the uncompromising word of the LORD. I thought that I had taught my children all they needed to know, but I have discovered that they either weren't listening as they got older, or rebelled in adulthood. I have discovered many things since returning home to Virginia, but I cannot undo the past, only strive to do better. I was consistent with the stands that I took, and when I needed to ask forgiveness I did and still do. But it is never too late for new habits to be learned and lived, so remember that if you feel that you failed. I do not feel that I'm a failure, just continuously learning, and that is how we must remain, learning each day, growing in the grace and glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

I'm leaving the following thought from E.M. Bounds for consideration:

"Woe to the generation of sons who find their censers empty of the rich incense of prayer; whose fathers have been too busy or too unbelieving to pray. Perils inexpressible and consequences untold are their unhappy heritage. Fortunate are they whose fathers and mothers have left them a wealthy patrimony of prayer." 

Day 77 Oops!

 

3/18/2026

"I can do all things through Christ

who gives me strength."

Philppians 4:13

 

Here we go again! I say that with a broad smile, and a chuckle. Laughter truly is good medicine. 

I am attempting to pound out this short, simple post in spite of the fact that my body is being attacked once more. I won't give the enemy any room to think he could possibly touch me. Besides, greater is He who is in me than he who is in the world! 

Last week I worked very hard fighting with the thorny vines consuming my daddy's bushes here at the house. Last year about this time, they were killing my forsythia trees, and that is when I was swinging from the vine, sort of, and fell backsides first to the ground. I am still dealing with that misfortune, but again, my first response was laughter. One would think a 75 year old would have better sense, but I guess since I have a childlike mind, I don't always think rationally. Another smile erupts!

Apparently, while dealing with the thorns and whatever else may have been in those bushes, I got infected with something. At this point the doctor doesn't even know. I drove myself to Stony Creek today to see my country doctor. Whatever it is, it is aggressively attacking my skin, and it is not pleasant. The weird part is that although I was a bit uncomfortable on Sunday, I was able to sit through the sermon and worship, plus attend my online services. It was really a great afternoon, until evening when the real battle began to be waged.

I'm taking a steroid super packet of meds, as Dr Matherlee calls it, to stop this whatever it is. Hopefully tomorrow will bring much improvement. I'm not one to lie around, not even when I have severe headaches or any type of pain. Mama always said we feel better when we get up, take a bath, and get dressed. I've always taken that advice to heart. I've never missed much work either. The doctors think I'm nuts, but then they must not know The Great Physician! He was definitely with me while I drove to the doctor and back today, as when I arrived home, the rash had intensified just with the rubbing of my clothing and the stress of the ride. Actually, I go the long way through McKenney, as I love the ride! Peaceful backwoods can be sheer heaven!

Nonetheless, I'm still on the wall with Israel and the United States as all of my intercessor friends and I continue to pray for the battle to free Iran and to protect both Israel and the United States from the Iranian regime. Prayer is the best warfare, so I hope that any who call themselves followers of Jesus Christ are joining the battle on their knees and faces before God. I do not post everything, and even today new circumstances have risen that I do not share. If you are a believer in Christ, you will not fear, for what can man do to you? When in doubt, pray. Pick up your prayer manual, the Holy Bible, and read the Psalms, as they bring great reassurance in times of peril. Please, don't listen to the local news sources, but use reputable journalists and ministries. I post daily from those, so when in doubt, go to my Facebook page. I use it for information to inform and uplift. Do not listen to those who seek to turn you from truth.

Until tomorrow. Shalom. 

  

Day 75 Your Choice

 

3/16/2026

"O our God, will You not judge them? 

For we have no power against this great multitude

that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do,

but our eyes are on You."

2 Chronicles 20:12

 

At this very moment I am physically embroiled in an attack from the enemy attempting to distract me from what the LORD is leading me to do today. Last week my son, Daniel, and I began cutting down the shrubs in the back of our yard, as a infectious vine has been attacking the bush and stunting its growth. Unknowingly I was infected either from the poison in the thorns on the vines, or I touched poison ivy or oak. Consequently, my sin has broken out, and the itching is unrelenting. To make matters worse I have developed an upper respiratory issue, which could be from the weather and the pollen, or it could be stemming from these thorns. I see it as an additional attack to make me so uncomfortable that I want to lie down, not accomplishing all the LORD has spoken to me this morning to do. I don't believe in coincidence, nor do I retreat from the battle easily. I have learned the hard way to "stay the course."

It does become exhausting when something tries to distract me from focusing on what God has said. It is almost amusing the extent the enemy will go to silence prayer. Back in 2016 when I was still in New Mexico and working, I sustained a blow to the head that left me with noise in my head, that sounds like an army of locusts ready to take flight, gearing up by increasing that noise insects make when they rub their legs together. The noise is shrill, continuous, and the pitch rises to impossible heights, making me want to bang my head on the wall to see if an additional blow would end it! Then I become rational, and I just do what I've learned to do over this span of ten years - a decade - to do. Wow, how times fast when we're having fun! I try to focus on what I need to do, and I ignore it as best I can. It's not easy, but I have learned to overcome a great many challenges that send others to bed. God is faithful.

Each morning for 891 days, hundreds of intercessors have spent an hour or better on the global prayer calls for Israel. We begin every meeting with worship, ushering in the Presence of the LORD, followed by a strategic, educational, or encouraging message before we gather specific prayer points for prayer. I am always uplifted in these sessions, because they let me know that I am not alone. Many times I wonder what exactly my part is, because there is so much happening in my nation alone. Not having a strong local prayer group has been hard, but I haven't had that for years and years. But this doesn't keep me from reaching out to others in an attempt to inform and educate an unwary people. I am trusting God that as I ask for and obey His direction, answers will come. Just this morning I was praying about the church trying to "sleep out" this war without understanding the significance of Israel's part in the end time restoration. It's all about Israel, and it always has been. God made a covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and regardless of who rises or falls, Israel will remain strong. 

Right now the nations of the world are at a place prophetically called "The Valley of Decision" concerning where they stand with Israel, and we must determine whether we stand as a sheep nation or as a goat nation before God:

"Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision! For the day of the LORD is near in the valley of decision. The sun and moon will grow dark, and the stars will diminish their brightness. The LORD also will roar from Zion, and utter His voice from Jerusalem; the heavens and earth will shake; but the LORD will be a shelter for His people, and the strength of the children of Israel." (Joel 3:14-16).

Will we obey the LORD God, or will the church continue to remain idle? The signs are all around us with changes in weather, wars and rumors of wars, disobedience, immorality, and so on. In a previous post I mentioned the alignment of the planets on the eve of this war with Iran. It was the night of the blood moon. Pretty real stuff there! What does Jesus say about sheep and goat nations:

"When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on His right hand, 'Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.'      (Matthew 25:31-36).

The remaining passage of scripture explains exactly what Jesus meant, and you can continue to read Matthew 25:37-46 for clarification and context.

Perhaps one reason that the church is not speaking out on behalf of Israel or complaining about the United States involvement with Israel is because they don't want to frighten their people. But, ignorance is never bliss, and everyone needs to understand what the scriptures say regarding what is happening in Israel, in Iran, and in our own countries. Look at the rise in antisemitism, and what is happening in the streets of many cities. The enemy is having a field day, and no one is saying a word. This is a battle for good versus evil, and I don't think one needs a great deal of spiritual discernment to agree with that! Yes, it can be unsettling and outright frightening, but if God is on our side, and He is on every true believer's side, then who can be against us? (Romans 8:31) When King Jehosphaphat was up against an enemy hoard, what did he do? Who did he run to for advice?

"O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You." (2 Chronicles 20:12)    

"And he said, Listen, all you of Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem, and you, King Jehosphaphat! Thus says the LORD to you": 'Do not be afraid nor dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours, but God's. Tomorrow go down against them. They will surely come up by the Ascent of Ziz, and you will find them at the end of the brook before the Wilderness of Jeruel. You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still and see the salvation of the LORD, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem!' Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the LORD is with you." (2 Chronicles 20:15-17). 

Are our eyes on the LORD? If not, where do we turn for help? If in doubt, read Psalm 121. 

 

Day 74 Sunday Rest

 

3/15/2026

 "Peace I leave with you, my peace

I give to you; not as the world gives do I 

give to you. Let not your heart be troubled,

neither let it be afraid."

John 14:27

 

Memories can be bittersweet, even so, they can bring back many blessings masked as defeat. It was such a long time ago, but hardly a day goes by that I do not remember that day. Growing up in the backwoods of a much smaller Dinwiddie County back in the day, I spent much of my time at Central Baptist Church and with friends who lived adjacent to the church parsonage. Susan and Melinda were sisters, although I don't remember the exact years that separated them. Susan was in my class in high school, and we sang in the choir at church together. I remember singing a song called "Peace I Leave with You," and the words of the verse above framed the lyrics, "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you; not as the world gives, give I unto you...." That song has played over and over in my mind and heart on days when I felt so alone and lost. It's a reminder of the faithfulness of God. 

It was the weekend of the High School Ring Dance. My mama had made me a beautiful yellow satin gown to wear, and a good friend was taking me to the dance. That was when girls dressed modestly, and the boys always honored their dates with a wrist corsage to compliment the gown. My corsage was yellow roses, and I remember being so proud of wearing my designer gown. Mama always made my clothes, and I think she got more enjoyment seeing me well-dressed than I did. The next day was Easter Sunday, so mama also made me a simple little blue dress, but I am uncertain the weave of the fabric. I do recall that Susan and Melinda were each decked out in beautiful store-bought dresses fit for queens. I felt a little plain standing beside them, which I'm sure may have hurt my mama's feelings had I appeared ungrateful. That's the last time we ever got to stand together again, as they both died in a car wreck that evening. Things were never the same after that day. 

I remember going through a period of not caring whether my grades were good or below average after that day. I'd been told earlier in life that I wasn't as smart as my brother, so after Susan died, I lost interest in trying my best. I'm not clear on many of the details of my younger years, because I was sick a lot with migraines and lower back problems. Back then the doctors weren't as knowledgeable of my conditions, so I was given medications that could have harmed me had I been able to take them. I'm sure it cost a pretty penny, money daddy just didn't have. I wish I could have shared more with my parents and they with me about those days. Filling in the blanks would have helped, but that was so long ago. Medicine still has not progressed along those lines, sadly, but I am grateful that God delivered me from the suffering. What I do recall is waking up to the realization that not doing my best work wasn't helping me, so I snapped out of my grief and punishing myself for being alive. Eventually I graduated with honors.

At church this morning we decided to sit closer to the front, closer to all the young people who all sit together in the front. They took up five or six pews in the front right side of the church, and they all seemed very engaged in the message. Later, listening to two online services, each of them mentioned the young people directly, and the subject was choosing the right person for marriage. How I wish things had been different for my children, my grandchildren, and even the great-grandchildren I have never known. My younger son married a girl who had three children, and she was several years older than he. I was able to get to know the children, but over time, things fell apart, and I got caught in the crosshairs. I love children, blood or not, they are mine. I wish things could have been different for me. I still think about it after all these years, and the message gave me hope that at least I had tried to be a quiet and respectful wife, who didn't nag or prod, or belittle. I don't know what I did wrong. Children live what they learn, so I hope at least I modeled a virtuous mother in some way, although I get plenty of criticism today for putting God before anything else. Why does it have to be so hard? Regardless, God is faithful even when we are not, and I want to live for Him, each day doing all I can to encourage anyone who is struggling as a wife or mother. The Bible is our guideline. Men have been given a big responsibility as husbands and heads of their homes. We can't go back, but we can go forward, and it is never too late to do the right thing, especially when it is hard. God never leaves us, and He spells things out pretty clearly in the Word. 

My job now is the same as it has always been with regard to my children, and for anyone who is watching my life. I model Jesus, and I pray for my children, grandchildren, great grandchildren using the Word of the Lord and standing against the enemy who would attempt to steal, kill, and destroy. I can be the umbrella of protection under the authority of Jesus Christ for them. There is power in the Name of Jesus and the power of His blood shed for our sins. We can have peace in the midst of any storm in this life. And we can have victory, because He has already overcome. I lay it at His feet, at the foot of the cross. He is more than enough. 

Day 73 Mental Travel

 

3/14/2026

"Earth's crammed with heaven,

and every common bush aflame with God;

but only those who see take off their shoes;

the rest sit round it and pluck blackberries."

Elizabeth Barrett Browning

 

One of my favorite things to do on a Sabbath afternoon is to listen to music. I find a nice instrumental worship video by Tim Janis who has the most beautiful worship songs and hymns, with breathtaking landscapes and wild life at play in the forests or on mountain ranges. There's nothing more peaceful than mental traveling across seascapes and open plains, herds of wild mustangs, forest animals at play, and meadows carpeted by wildflowers. The scenery is spectacular, and the hymns always seem to pick me up and refocus my day. Sometimes, when I close my eyes, I envision myself sitting on the hillside drinking in the tranquil beauty, smelling the crisp cool air and the scent of wildflowers, or feeling the spray from crashing waves on the seashore as a storm is approaching. I am alive!

My imagination gets the best of me when the destination becomes Africa, and I find myself on safari and visiting the indigenous tribes. It's always a disappointment when I open my eyes to find I am alone, here, merely dreaming, but I count it all joy to have a rich imagination and a curious, childlike mind that appreciates the adventure while it lasts. I can mimic it again and again when I watch certain movies in places I long to see. Africa is a place I have longed to visit and perhaps one day live and serve. It was Africa the Lord focused my attention when I was very young. Perhaps one day the Lord will send me that way. For now, I'll dream, and I can pray for my friends and support their ministries of love. They have so little, but they give so generously. Just as it should be, we give, because He gave...everything! 

Israel has been another focus, as I cannot separate my love for Jesus from God's chosen people and the nation of Israel. Although again only a mental traveler, when He says "Go," I will. How amazing to walk the roads Jesus traveled and visit His home town of Nazareth, visiting Pastor Saleem and his wife, Nisreen, who have a ministry to the Arabs living there. They themselves are Arabs, and they support the soldiers and the local community, especially now in time of war. Even when under fire, they serve in the fields. When their kitchen was destroyed, they still made meals for everyone. They supply much-needed supplies for the home and the food pantry. They are a wonderful couple, who share the love of Christ in reaching out to meet the needs, always ready to serve. 

Or visit the Messianic Jewish congregations in Haifa and Mount Carmel where I feel a part of the family. Naturally, I'd want to visit the International Christian Embassy in Jerusalem and the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, both places I love with more "family" members. I cannot think of a city or country I would not love to visit, or people I would want to meet, encourage, and share God's love with as many as I can. Rolling up my sleeves and working along side them in the fields, feeding the hungry, ministering to the sick. The greatest gift God ever gave me besides salvation was the gift of His love for hurting people, and I am able to share that love with anyone I meet. It doesn't require much to love someone, maybe not what they do or say, but to really ask God to give you His love for another person. I sincerely do not want to see anyone go to hell, or be eternally separated from God. What a terrible waste of a life. Missing out on the most important life of all.

Today was such a lovely day, meditating on the love of God, spending the day resting and more importantly listening to the word of the Lord, in fellowship with the family of God at Jacob's Tent. The message today was about the building of the tabernacle, and the importance of each person's part in the actual building and artistry, but also the people's part in providing what they needed to go into the actual building of each part of the tabernacle. Each person giving from their heart, and their love of God, desiring a place where His Presence would dwell. But more than the actual building what was most important is that the people would come to realize God's Sovereignty, His authority, that all would know that He was the LORD their God, and He desired to fellowship or "tabernacle" - make His home - with them. It's the same today. He has chosen us, and He wants us to choose Him. 

I don't know about you, but I'm all in for that! Abiding in the shelter of the Most High! Now that's worth living for! 

 

Day 72 Time

 

3/13/2026

"A most beneficial exercise in secret prayer 

before the Father is to write things down so that

I see exactly what I think and want to say. Only those

who have tried these ways know the ineffable 

benefit of such strenuous times in secret." 

Oswald Chambers

 

Blustery winds have continued to blow all day long today, making the temperatures much lower than those earlier in the week. Storm clouds are forming in the Midwest and Southwest for the possibility of real arctic weather. What a turnaround in weather for all of us. 

Sadly, I haven't been very productive today, but rather contemplative, if that's permissible from time to time, I believe. My reading this morning was seemed splintered or somewhat opposing to each other. I finished up reading last chapters of the book of Judges that ended with the almost total annihilation of the tribe of Benjamin, and ended reading the book of Ruth. After the death of Joshua, Israel fell back into the old sin patterns, and everyone did as they thought was best. When things got really bad, God used the heathen nations to punish them, until in their distress the people cried out to the Lord. All through history, no matter how badly God's people rebelled and sinned, whenever they cried out, He answered. During this time period, God appointed judges who ruled over the nation by conquering their enemies, and restoring peace. 

Against the backdrop of the period of the judges, during a time of famine a man named Elimelech, from Bethlehem, moved his family to Moab. Along with him were Naomi, his wife; and his two sons, Mahlon and Chilion. The sons married two girls from Moab - Ruth and Orpah. When Naomi's husband and later her two sons died, Naomi decided it was time to return to Israel. Although the two daughters-in-law wanted to go with Naomi, she told them both to return to their homes, so they could find husbands. Orpah finally departed, but Ruth did not want to leave Naomi. These are her words to Naomi:

"Entreat me not to leave you, or to turn back from following after you; for wherever you go, I will go; and wherever you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God, my God. Where you die, I will die, and there will I be buried. The LORD do so to me, and more also, if anything but death parts you and me." (Ruth 1:61-17) 

The book of Ruth is a powerful love story about Ruth's marriage to Naomi's relative, Boaz who portrays the kinsman redeemer. Ruth has a son, Obed, who becomes the father of Jesse, who was the father of David who later became King of Israel. Ruth the Moabitess became a member of the royal lineage of Jesus Christ, Our Messiah. It's a beautiful story and demonstrates that God's ways are much higher than ours. I think about Tamar and Rehab who were also included in the lineage of Christ. When I read these accounts, it renews my hope. God's ways are so much higher than mine, and His thoughts than my thoughts. He is from the beginning to the end, and He upholds us with His righteous right hand.

This afternoon I was reminded that time is our most precious gift, and we need to use it wisely and intentionally. The hour of the church is growing to a close, and we cannot waste any more time, distracted by things that look good and acceptable, but that are taking the time away from God's focus for this hour. The days are darkening, and at any time the Lord could return. Our lamps must be lit, and we must be ready. Each day must be intentional, and each voice must speak out for righteousness and truth. There is no time to waste. Make certain your election is sure. 

Day 71 A True Heart

 

3/12/2026

"...let us draw near with a true heart in

full assurance of faith..."

Hebrews 10:22 

 

True to the weather reports, my morning began with overcast skies, increasing winds, followed by rain mixed with ice and snow, changing to light snowfall that managed to cover the ground lightly, before the weather changed its focus to a semi-sunny afternoon. The weather has remained cold and a bit balmy, so I can hardly wait to see what the morning will bring. The week began with warmer weather going up to 80 degrees yesterday afternoon, so this sudden change was somewhat unexpected, even though we are still in the month of March. I had planned to go to Trader Joe's tomorrow afternoon, but I may decide to stay home and finish catching up on my chores. I doubt the weather will allow for outside garden chores, but I could be wrong, as I often am when it comes to predicting weather.

The quiet morning provided a little extra leisure as I prayed about the day ahead. Thursday evening I host a Bible study group, so I usually finish up going over the message notes. Deciding to put that for later, I turned to my study of the book of Hebrews using Andrew Murray's companion book entitled The Holiest of All. I have been ambling through this intense study, that is closely linked to the Old Testament book of Leviticus, for quite some time. There is so much depth in these scriptures, as it relates to the Holy Priesthood of Christ, that I have to savor it a bite at a time, if that makes sense. This is why I feel the only way to study the scriptures is line by line, precept by precept. I believe that's the whole idea, wouldn't you think? 

In Chapter 10 of Hebrews the author, who is unknown, speaks of drawing near to God with a true heart. In order to look at this thought, I prefer to include the entire portion of scripture in order to view the context:

"Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching."                 (Hebrews 10:19-25)

In this section of the chapter, the author is exhorting the Hebrew believers to hold fast to their confession of faith in Jesus Christ whose death tore the veil in the temple, allowing all who believed full access to God, to His throne of grace, a privilege previously only allowed to the high priest only one time a year for atonement of the sins of the nation. In Chapter 8:10 speaking of the New Covenant through Christ's death and resurrection, he says: "For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, says the LORD; I will put My laws in their mind and write them on their hearts; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people."

God encourages us to draw near to Him. He has always longed for fellowship with man, but this is not to be confused with religion that is more of head knowledge and doing rather than being. The first thing that He asks of us is to enter into His holy place with a true heart, with desires fixed upon Him, drawing near from a place of total surrender, yielded to Him, true to Him only. In Chapter 3 God speaks of hardened hearts, wandering hearts, and unbelieving hearts, but here God says He will put His laws into our minds, giving us a new heart, one desiring to abide in Him. God asks for our hearts, a heart ready to obey, to trust, to find the life He offers in the secret place of the most high. A pursuit of holiness, a deep spiritual hunger to live a life of full fellowship with God who is the Holy One. It is here, from this place, He calls us to draw near and receive the blessing. "Let us draw near with a true heart."

Day 70 My Soul Waits

 

3/11/2026

"Prayer does not mean simply to pour out one's heart. 

It means rather to find the way to God and to speak with Him,

whether the heart is full or empty. No man can do that

by himself. For that he needs Jesus Christ."

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

"I wait for the LORD, my soul waits,

and in His word I do hope."

Psalm 130:5   

 

Do you ever feel that too much is happening way too fast? I feel as if my head is constantly spinning, and I hardly have a chance to recuperate before something else is thrown in my direction. I remember so many times in my life when I had to deal with opposing views and find some semblance of rationale in the mix. Why is it so hard for adults to behave respectfully towards one another? 

The home across from ours is occupied by a few guys who cut trees and clean forests debris for a living, or so it seems, as they often bring home large loads of cut timber or branches and other forest debris. Yesterday they brought home four logs that took up the entire truck bed of the semi-truck they were using. As they slowly came up the hill approaching their driveway, the van that drove up behind them began impatiently laying on the horn. The truck had stopped, probably to access how to best pull into their driveway with that extra large load. The van pulled around the truck eventually, then the men in the van got out, and they began yelling at the men in the semi. Fortunately the only ones yelling were the men in the van, perhaps because the semi-drivers only spoke Spanish, or maybe they were speechless at this rude behavior. After that embarrassing situation ended, the men got back into their van, drove a few feet further and turned into their own driveway. Rather than cause all this fuss, the van could have easily taken the street at the other end of the road, sparing the neighborhood of this show. And we wonder why our children and grandchildren are so confused and behave poorly. I imagine we could have become enraged, because the truck pulled into our yard while attempting to back the semi into their driveway, but what good would come of it?!

For the past three days I have been outside battling with thorns and thistles, hacking out the wild vines sucking the life from my once vibrant bushes. I had hoped to burn the thorny culprits this afternoon, but winds picked up, so the vicious species lay waiting for another day. I still have a fair amount of work remaining, aside from the burning, that will not require a long time, as the fire seems to snap them up quickly. I love working in the garden, or in this case, in the bushes, as it is peaceful and there is a sense of satisfaction in seeing a job well done. When my son helps, it makes the job lighter, and it is more enjoyable laughing over silly things. The only hitch in the process is that thorns prick the skin, causing an allergic reaction, and the histamines cause intense itching. It's hard not to scratch itching skin, but that will only make the problem worse. It's nearly impossible not to scratch them in the night unless I bandage my arm. With the stronger winds this afternoon, there is also the threat of rain mixed with snow tomorrow, so that allows time for my wounds to heal. I find it hard to believe that 80 degrees temperature today would change to 40 degrees in such a short time, but it is getting cooler already, and temperatures are falling. 

Back inside, I was once more confronted with the concerns I temporarily laid aside in order to do my yard work, although out of sight is never out of mind and heart. I initially mentioned that things were happening too quickly, but this is the reality I face daily as we stand with Israel during this time of war. As the world is becoming increasing aware, the situation involving Israel and Iran has evolved into a much larger crisis involving several countries now, and America at the lead as we stand with Israel. That in itself is very much a concern, but there are many other problems that exist within our nation and without, that are also of grave concern. Whenever there is war, many people suffer, but the underlying problems have been quietly dormant and in many respects hidden. In America, the discord within our nation, that was already out of control, has become louder, and it seems as if finding common ground is becoming harder, while the rest of the world, especially our enemies, are watching. Although each situation is extremely important, often critical, they become distractions from the main focus of our prayer. I am so grateful for my daily prayer calls, because standing in prayer together, we are able to discern the enemy's tactics. But honestly, it can be exhausting, and heartbreaking at the same time. So we have to find balance in our lives, so we are able to rest and refresh in order to remain alert. There are days when going emails to obtain updates is exhausting.

The only way I can get up in the morning to face another day is knowing that my confidence does not rest in man, military strength, or in the hands of powerful rulers or leaders. My hope is in the Lord who made heaven and earth. When I open my eyes, and take the first breath of air into my lungs, I rejoice in the day the Lord has made, that He has given me another chance to serve Him. My first priority of each day is spend time alone with Him, listening, worshiping, and reading His Word, because His Word is life. We must abide in His Presence where there is fullness of joy. Once you come to know Him, you will discover that it is true. Days can be difficult, but fighting for freedom is never free. It comes at a cost, a very high cost, and the real freedom is found only in Christ. May Jesus be the center of your life. 

Day 69 God's Ways

 

2/10/2026

"It's true God never changes, but He

continually surprises."

Daily Walk  

 

Yesterday, as we prayed for the current situation with the war between the evil jihad in Iran and Israel, we revisited the condition of the modern day church, that is, the body of Christ. There is the growing concern about where the modern church stands with regard to scripture and the end time restoration of Israel. I have been concerned for quite some time, and I have spoken about this subject many times, but I feel as if my words, as those of many scholars and allies of Israel, God's chosen people, have fallen upon deaf ears. Why is it that the church has become so blinded and self-absorbed that they cannot see within the print on the pages of the Bible, the truth of what God has written in His inspired word? As with the church of Ephesus that the Lord addresses in Revelation, the church has lost its first love. As with others warned in Revelation, the church has tolerated sin within the camp, and with others the love has grown lukewarm. Is it apathy? Indifference? Ignorance? Fear? We speak of revival, but revival cannot come to a church whose mind is steeped in religion, and whose hearts are not totally yielded to the love of God.

Many churches are preaching godly messages, even teaching total books of the Bible, line by line. They have discipleship classes in the evening and Bible studies during the days, and they are growing in popularity, because of the music or children's ministries, and outreach to foreign missions. All good things, but as the church is growing, increasing in membership, acquiring bigger and better buildings, what is being left undone? What does the Lord require of us? I was asked this question once, and to me the answer is so obvious, as it was spoken by the prophet Micah: "He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" (Micah 6:8)

The Word of God is changeless, yet some forget the whole counsel of the word God has spoken, especially with regard to the covenants. The different denominations or non-denominations all have their beliefs and what truths they adhere to, when Jesus did not minister in this way, nor do I believe it was His intention for things to become so divided and self-centered all in His name. It is a good thing that God looks upon the heart of man. When Jesus began His ministry, His first words were to repent for the kingdom of God was at hand. His forerunner, John the Baptist, echoed these words before Jesus began His public ministry. Why is repentance seen as such an unholy word to some today? I repent every day, and to me it is so refreshing to examine my heart and stay clean before a holy God. So much ugliness filters into our lives through conversation, television, social media, advertisements are especially cruel and full of deception and lies, and so many buy into the evil and follow it. Both John the Baptist and Jesus confronted the evil of the day. They didn't hide it or try to work around it, rather they confronted it and shared the deception with the people. They educated and confronted. So why is it that pastors are not warning their sheep of destructive heresy that is taking over in our nation? Is it truly to protect others so they will not worry? We need to be told the truth, and every word that goes forth attempting to sway our opinions or instruct us in what is best for the nation, needs to be judged against the word of God. People need to be informed, or like wayward sheep, they stray, then pay the price of carelessness. The church needs to awaken and become bold, as Jesus was bold.

My heart is so troubled these days that I spend much of my quiet time before God crying for the church. There is so much division within the church regarding God's chosen people and the restoration of Israel in the end times. I have spoken countless times of the heresy within the church called Replacement Theology which teaches that the church has taken the place of Israel through the new covenant, even though the truth of our place as Gentile believers in Christ is clearly spelled out in bold terms by the Apostle Paul in the Romans, Chapters 9 - 11. Yet, it is ignored, but the truth is, salvation comes through the Jews (John 4:22). Something needs to change, as a house divided cannot stand. Things have become so self-centered, concerned only with "my ministry," but isn't the church God's, and do we really consult Him? When we look at the beginning of Jesus' ministry, it was rather simple, as is His mandate to His followers in Matthew 28:18-20, "All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

When Jesus sent out the twelve disciples, He sent them two by two, and He told them not to take money, or food, or an extra tunic, or an extra pair of sandals, only a walking stick. He commanded them to heal the sick, raise the dead, cast out demons. Jesus did not need a church building, and He didn't require money. Spreading the gospel message was simply done, trusting in God's providence. We quote the scripture about God providing all of our needs when it works for us. Do we really believe it enough to just test Him? I remember many years ago when I spent time with Youth with a Mission, about testimonies of God's provision. Once when one of the young people felt led by the Lord to go to a certain country, he questioned God, because he did not have the money. Yet, the call was urgent within his heart. So he packed his bags, went to the airport, and stood in line, penniless. As he was nearing the counter, someone came up to him and handed him some money, saying God had asked him to give the man this money. When his turn came at the counter, the agent told the young man the cost, and as he opened his hand and began to count out the money he had been provided, it came to the exact amount of the flight, to the penny. Only God can do that! Loren Cunningham, who started Youth with a Mission after receiving a vision from the Lord of thousands of young people coming to the Lord, as the waves of the sea, has testified of many such times of provision as I just described. It is no coincidence, but a sovereign move of an Almighty God who uses those who answer His call.

Later in the book of Acts the disciples gathered together, and each had their own job to do, and the church exploded in growth, so more and more people were reached, because they kept it simple. The focus was not church growth, but on making disciples who would then, in turn, make disciples, and spread the message of Jesus Christ. Once when Jesus was ministering, He was approached by a scribe (Matthew 8:18-22):

"And when Jesus saw great multitudes about Him, He gave a command to depart to the other side. Then a certain scribe came and said to Him, 'Teacher, I will follow You wherever You go.' And Jesus said to him, 'Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.' Then another of His disciples said to Him, 'Lord, let me first go and bury my father.' But Jesus said to him, "Follow Me, and let the dead bury their own dead.'"

There is a high cost of discipleship when we choose to follow Him wholeheartedly. This does not mean that modern day churches or ministries should not have buildings or programs or experience growth, but we must examine the motives of our hearts, and we must not simply be concerned with our own agendas. And we must rightly divide the Word of Truth. 

When my husband went on a missionary trip to the Dominican Republic in the 1980's to build a church for the Christians there, he said that they had barely raised the sides of the building, still needing to put on the roof, before the people came into the unfinished church to worship the Lord. They came in singing with tambourines, and he said the presence of the Lord was in that meeting. I recently saw a movie where someone burned down the church, and rather than hide in their homes or worship in a salon, the people were gathered outside the town in a cove, benches prepared from boards and tree stumps, and they worshiped and were encouraged. When a heart truly desires to follow Christ and worship God in the spirit of holiness, there are no limitations to what only God can do! 

Day 68 Little Things

 

3/9/2026

"And He is the head of the body, the church, 

who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead,

that in all things He may have the preeminence."

Colossians 1:18  

 

This morning I woke up sharply at 8 am, as the alarm clock didn't go off at the usual time. Fortunately, my biological time clock rang louder. The house was still. Daniel was softly snoring on the sofa in the living room, otherwise all was silent and calm. A dense fog was rising from the ground, and a couple of cars were passing by on the lonely highway that runs across from the house. There's some activity at the church across the way announcing school in session. Blooms are forming on the bushes along the back of the yard, but the thorns and thistles threaten to choke out the beauty of the natural bush. Last year I worked hard and long trying to rid the trees of a nasty vine that has been choking the life from the crepe myrtle trees. The same vine is threatening my bushes along the back, so we are working against time to try to cut them back and dig out the vines.

As I grabbed a cup of coffee before sitting down to my quiet time alone with God, I tried to refocus my mind as I glanced at the news from Israel. Over recent days the war has been accelerating, and other countries are responding to attacks made on their countries by Iran. My email was packed with similar information stating the same things. I'm learning how to glean my emails, deleting the repetitious ones or those that appear to rant and rave. I've decided that I need to prioritize my mail and unsubscribe to others. I think I must be on everyone's mailing list, as it never seems to slow down. I must not allow it to consume my thoughts, so I realign my focus to seeking God's face before anything else. He must have preeminence. 

When I passed by the living room my son was waking up. He told me that he'd been up since 2 am. He had plans to take our car in for a check up, but the fog put a damper on those plans. Since the accident in December, we prefer to stay closer to home, limiting travel on days when the weather is uncertain. Fog is very dangerous to drive in, so plans changed, and the day was rearranged to another focus, another task. That's progress, as there have been many times when change had to be planned out in advance. I think it's a victory to say that tasks can now be completed without prior planning or notice, and no longer have to be scheduled. When one is dealing with depression, mental health challenges, and a past that flies in the face, and voices that echo the lies of the enemy, it is understandable that change cannot come easily. But now, I see new hope, and that brightens and lights up my day.

Day 67 Yes, I See

 

3/8/2026

"It is blessed to know of a place where we can

lay our tired head and heart, our heavenly Father's 

arms, and say to Him, 'I can do no more. And I have

nothing to tell you. May I lie here a while and rest?

Everything will soon be well again if I can only

rest in Your arms a while."

 

O. Hallesby

 

 

Here I am, sitting on a log, looking down at the grass, lost in my thoughts, feeling small and vulnerable, the noise in my head threatening to steal my peace, my joy. It's lonely sitting on this log, alone, weary, and afraid, but help is on the way. Soon I'll see a car pass by, and a stranger will smile and wave a friendly hello. The birds will eat the crumbs left on the meadow grass, then happily fly away. The sun is slowly rising and hope is on the way.

 

There are days when I feel "stuck" not knowing what to do. For a few months now my normal life has been changed, and when things finally appear to look hopeful, another potential snag threatens the peace that has been gained. Yet this time there's a difference, there's awareness, yet a calming feeling as if no matter what comes, it is well. As if in affirmation I hear the words "it is well with my soul" softly playing in the background. And I know that it is well with my soul, and in my life, because great is the faithfulness of the Lord. Again, confirmation comes "Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father. There is no shadow of turning with Thee; Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not; as Thou hast been, Thou forever wilt be." 

 

It appears as if the Lord is sitting here beside me on my lonely log, no longer alone but resting in the arms of my Savior and Lord. He's assuring me of His love, and He's singing to me, reminding me of His faithfulness. He sent the stranger's smile and wave of affirmation. He sent the birds to dine and happily fly away, and He sent the sun to awaken the sky and shine the light of His countenance. He is reminding me that it's a new day, and although the clouds may appear in the sky, He is always with me. Never be afraid to start again, as many times as it takes, no matter what another may say to hurt and harm, He changes not, and His compassion never fails, great is His faithfulness.

 

Day 66 Jesus, Our Shepherd

 

3/7/2026

"As the Father knows Me, even so I know

the Father; and I lay down my

life for the sheep."

John 10:15

 

Yesterday, after fueling up with the Word of God, I put on my work gloves, grabbed my yard tools, and I worked the better part of the day outside. Physical labor, although unkind to lazy muscles from winter slumber, is so energizing, and playing in the dirt is something I enjoy. As a kid I used to love making mud pies, but I had no such luxury today as there was much work to be done. I love getting my hands dirty, working the soil, so later on I can see the fruit of my labor spring forth an abundant harvest. It was a good day and much was accomplished. 

Today I enjoyed a quiet, peaceful, and restful Sabbath day. I woke up around 3 am to let Alex, my cat,  outside, as he's an early morning riser who enjoys making his visits around the neighborhood before circling back around to the field that lies dormant beside my home. He's a natural born mouser, so he enjoys waiting and watching, just as the sun rises and unsuspecting field mice come out to play. It's the highlight of my neighbor's day when she sees him stalking his prey. It seems as if the little fellow brightens many lives, and I am so grateful that God sent him to my doorstep for his forever home. Although with spring around the corner, I have been seeing less of him inside lounging on my bed, but he's a free spirit, and he knows where to come if the need arises. I know Abba watches over him, as He watches over all of His furry creatures.

Since I was up already I decided to turn on the early morning Sabbath service from Kehilat HaCarmel in Israel. Since the alerts have been sounding continuously, everyone needs to stay close to bomb shelters, so the service was abbreviated somewhat. Pastor Danny shared from Psalm 23, a favorite passage of scripture that many people have memorized. His dad was a shepherd, so growing up he knew firsthand how to interpret David's psalm to make it relevant for today. Jesus always taught in parables, using examples common to life, as did David when he watched his flock on a mountainside communing with God.  There's an author I enjoy, Phillip Keller, who wrote several books based on his life as a shepherd, comparing a shepherd's role in caring for his flock with that of Jesus, our Great Shepherd. David must have spent many hours alone in the fields, sitting on the hillside guarding his sheep, communing with God, growing in wisdom and understanding. In Psalm 23, David has a deep knowledge of how our Shepherd watches over us, His flock, as he watches over and protects his sheep.

"The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want" (Psalm 23:1). The Shepherd takes care of His sheep by providing shelter, by feeding them, and protecting them from predators. His sheep know His voice and respond to Him. In John 10:14 Jesus says I am the good Shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own. When shepherds brought their sheep to the well for watering, the different flocks would mingle together, but when the shepherd called his sheep by name, they would recognize their shepherd's voice and follow him (John 10:3). The sheep know that the shepherd takes care of all their needs.

"He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters" (verse 2).  Sheep are very timid, and they become tense and fearful if they suspect any hint of a threat. They are unable to lay down or have peace until certain things are done. They must be fed, be free of parasites, and there can be no contention or quarreling among the sheep so they can relax and rest. The shepherd makes certain that all these needs are met, so they will lay down. It's interesting to me that in spite of all the alerts in Israel of incoming rockets, missiles, or drones where the people must hurry to safety in a limited amount of time, never knowing for certain if the their shelter will be hit, the people are able to find peace and rest. Only God, our loving Father, our Good Shepherd can bring them, and us, to a place of rest and peace in the midst of storms. We look to Him from whom our help comes from.

"He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake" (verse 3). After a night of sleep and rest, the sheep are ready to head back out to the pastures where they will graze during the day. The shepherd guides them along the way that is safe, avoiding hazardous ravines or areas where predators are known to hang out. He must lead them, because if sheep are left alone, they will wander off, and either get lost or fall into some disaster. They depend on the presence of the shepherd to guard and protect them. Proverbs 4:25-27 says, "Let your eyes look straight ahead, and your eyelids look right before you. Ponder the path of your feet, and let all your ways be established. Do not turn to the right or to the left. Remove your foot from evil."

"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me" (verse 4). Like a shepherd guides his flock along the well trodden path other flocks have roamed, providing a sure path of safety, so the Good Shepherd guides us along the straight and narrows pathways, remaining beside us, even in times of struggle and hardship. The Israeli people certainly understand what it means to walk through the valley of the shadow of death, as they are continuously being fired at, but they know that God will protect them. Huddled in the shelters, the children feel safe, because their parents are there with them. The parents reassure the children of God's unfailing love, so they do not fear. Even though the sheep walk through deep, narrow, often dangerous valleys where there are animals lurking in the shadows to prey on them, they know that the shepherd will guard them and keep them safe from any danger. The shepherd carries a rod to keep predators away, and he carries a staff with a crooked end that helps to pull the sheep back onto the path, if they veer off or become caught in the brush. These tools are signs of strength and protection.

"You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over" (verse 5). As the shepherd herds his sheep to fertile grasslands where they can feed, there may be predators watching in the trees, but the sheep know they will be protected, because they are loved. Although the enemy is encamped around about Israel, the Good Shepherd prepares a feast for the people, and the enemy cannot touch them. We have peace in our homes even when there may be chaos outside, where we can commune with our Father knowing He is in the midst of us. The shepherd anoints the sheep's head with oil to protect them from insects and parasites that burrow down into their skin and into their nasal passages. It soothes wounds and heals scabs, and it acts to soothe them and keep them peaceful. In ancient days, it was customary for the host whose home one was visiting to anoint the visitor's head with oil as a sign of blessing. An overflowing cup suggests abundance and blessing, and it represents the fact that our God doesn't just provide for our needs, but He blesses us in abundance.

"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever" (verse 6). In these closing lines, David is expressing the goodness of our God in providing for our needs always, and the blessing we will receive will be eternal life spent with Him. Oh, what a glorious day that will be! 

Day 65 Garden of the Soul

 

3/6/2026

"The most rewarding things in life are often

the ones that look like they cannot be done."

Daily Walk  

 

Spring seems to be nipping at our heels! The temperatures were much warmer this week, and the forecast for next week appears advantageous for yard work. The grass is getting higher, and the weeds are thriving, even the allergies are kicking off with a fierce vengeance. 

We spent the greater part of the day cutting down the hedges, hauling the branches, then burning the debris in the late afternoon. There were small piles of previously cut branches and vines, so we managed to get most of it burned, before our stamina completely burned out! There's still so much more that needs to be done, and I am anxiously waiting for a new chain for our chainsaw and for my spare lawnmower blade to be sharpened. On my bucket list of things to purchase, to make my life easier, is either a Toro or a Honda garden tiller, as I plan to plant a reasonably-sized garden this year. My parents' green thumb did not come naturally to me. They could make anything grow, but I have to work at it. Actually, it's not hard to do, and my attitude is good, so that makes the hard work pleasurable, especially when I see fruitful growth. In our group this week we were studying the Parable of the Sower:

"A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell by the wayside; and it was trampled down, and the birds of the air devoured it. Some fell on rock; and as soon as it sprang up, it withered away because it lacked moisture. And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up with it and choked it. But others fell on good ground, sprang up, and yielded a crop a hundredfold." When He had said these things He cried, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear!" (Luke 8:5-8). 

I'm hoping that my seed falls on well-prepared soil, with plenty of sunshine and copious amounts of water and irrigation, so the earth will produce excellent crops. It's been quite a while since I had the opportunity to plow up a patch of earth on my own land, so I have high expectations. I have fond memories of digging up potatoes for my daddy, but I don't know if I am quite that adventurous. I love it that Scripture provides direction, even in gardening and tending our animals, if we just take the time to search for it. The farmer's almanac gleaning its understanding from the Bible, I am certain!

The response in full to Jesus' answer to the above parable was:

"Then His disciples asked Him, saying, 'What does this parable mean?'  And He said, "To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables, that 'Seeing they may not see, hearing they may not understand.' Now the parable is this: 'The seed is the Word of God. Those by the wayside are the ones who hear; then the devil comes and takes away the word out of their hearts less you should believe and be saved. But the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, who believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away. Now the ones that fell among thorns are those who, when they have heard, go out and are choked with cares, riches, and pleasures of life, and bring no fruit to maturity. But the ones that fell on the good ground are those who, having heard the word with a noble and good heart, keep it and bear fruit with patience'" (Luke 8:9-15).

My online Bible group went well last night, and the ladies seemed to participate more freely than they have in the past couple of months. Perhaps the mild temperatures encouraged group efforts?! Whatever the case, I love it when people voluntarily interact and respond to one another's thoughts or opinions. It should always be like that where people feel comfortable sharing their hearts. I miss Charlie Kirk's events at the colleges, because he loved to hear opinions and to provide Biblical insight to clarify wrong assumptions. Still much is happening in our colleges and high school thanks to Charlie's influence. Some criticized his Biblical stance or his political views that are not being taught in the church as a whole, and certainly not in high school history or government. Nonetheless, voices are being raised, but their voice is not that of man's but God's through the inspiration of Holy Spirit. The King is on the throne, and enemy strongholds are falling. Truth prevails, and the prisoner will be set free. May the Lion of Judah roar!

Day 64 So Much More

 

3/5/2026

 “See what kind of love the Father has given to us,

 that we should be called children of God; and so we are.”  

1 John 3:1

 

As you may recall, a few months ago God began to ask me to consider my motives, as I had been asking Him about things He had spoken to me, things He had asked me to do. I was confused, because  opportunities that had opened, that seemed timely and fitting, I accepted as His leading, but the doors had been slammed shut only after a short period of time. I struggled over the matter for months until another unexpected change in my life occurred, but then the entire year had been a wild ride already with health concerns stemming from old injuries and surgeries, followed by my son's accident before Christmas and waiting for answers from that debacle, feeling so alone and unsupported by the local church. That shouldn't be a surprise to me, as it's been that way for many, many years. I don't understand that failure either. Perhaps it has nothing to do with me. I've tried to fit in, but I don't know why I am such a misfit. I love to talk about the miracles of God, the power of prayer and intercession, the sovereignty of God, and just how wonderful my Savior is to me. I have so much to be excited about, because He saved my soul from damnation, and now I'll be with Him one day when my time on earth is over - forever! Somehow this makes people uncomfortable, people who faithfully attend church! The streets are easier, as kindness speaks so loudly and authentically. I don't seek a position, just a sense of belonging, of purpose, acceptance as a child of God, passionate for His Word. 

Yesterday I had my taxes done, and I walked away feeling so inadequate, no worthless, all because I no longer work. I file taxes, but each year I'm told I no longer have to file, because I don't make any money, so the taxes pulled from my minimal IRA that's issued to me each month are returned to me. When I was working I made a good salary, so I was "worth something." The tax lady didn't make me feel this way, someone else had a couple of years ago, and every so often I remember, because jabs come from different directions to remind me of my "worth." In the afternoon, as I stood talking with a neighbor, in my yard, a discussion about who should be allowed to vote came up. I was among one who shouldn't be allowed to vote, because I am not making an income to benefit the State. Imagine that! Each year I plan to get back to work, do something with my life. It doesn't seem as if I am "doing anything," when actually my life is quite full. I had been knitting for a community charity group, but it really wasn't my cup of tea, although the fellowship was nice. I also worked with another charity that makes missionary dolls for Samaritan Purse shoe boxes, among other ministries. I painted the dolls faces - one side happy, the other sad, representing the face of one saved from their sins, and the one who had not yet been told the Good News.  It was lots of fun and a worthy effort, plus the people who did all the other jobs assembling these dolls were very nice. We even shared short devotionals, and I had shared one. My health took a spin, nothing serious, but aggravating. My three falls didn't help, and I still bear the pain for the last one. All that isn't so important, as I feel that I'm rather resilient for an older person. I never seemed to age mentally, so that's why I tend to take risks, like pulling on vines hanging from a tree limb. It wasn't a big tree, and the vine was pretty strong and resisted my attempts to dislodge it. I was adamantly opposed to leaving it there, as it was choking the life from the crepe myrtle trees, my daddy's trees that he worked so hard to preserve, whose beauty brings me joy. There's still work to do with them, but tomorrow my son and I are going outside to tackle some bushes, and maybe I'll give the vines another go.

This morning after the prayer call I was talking to God, asking Him to forgive me for some feelings that came back to me about some people who had hurt me, disappointed me really. But then I realized that maybe that's the way it was supposed to be, otherwise I would have said "yes" to more things, further complicating my already complicated life. I recently got dumped again, or at least it feels as if that is what happened, as I've not heard from the people in question. As I said before, I should be used to rejection by now, but then I got nudged again. What if I needed this to happen, because I had been hanging on in an uncomfortable situation for so long, feeling "less than" each week, not knowing how to "be more."

As I was sitting in my rocking chair, writing in my journal, crying a river, I heard the voice of God so clearly saying "I called you to stand on the wall, not live there." By that I understood that the call to intercessory prayer came to me years ago, when God spoke to me through a passage of scripture in Ezekiel 22:30, "And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that should not destroy it; but I found none." That verse changed my life, and I've never looked back. I still have a photo illustrating it on my table beside the bed. Since that time prayer took on new meaning, and over the years the desire has grown, as has my love for all people.

I'd been struggling to finish my blogs, four days behind, always racing to keep up with the daily news for this war that is off the charts when it comes to prophetic significance. I wanted to write the story, helping those who cannot understand the times, because they are not taught, to realize that the imminent return of Jesus is near. I especially want people to correct their thinking regarding the place Israel has in end time restoration. It amazes me that people, not even pastors, realize that we owe the Jewish people, God's chosen people, everything. Without them we wouldn't have a Bible, and we wouldn't have a Messiah. Jesus is after all a Jew. God has been telling me for years to "write the story," so I have been blogging the story, including those parts of my life that seemed to fit, but God said "there's so much more." That got my attention, because as I shared earlier, I was feeling a bit "stuck" this morning when I began to write. It was as if He was sitting here, with His arm around me, talking to me, saying "Yes, I called you to write the story, and yes, Israel is part of it, but there's so much more. You say you're worthless, but I call you My Own, My Beloved One. When you say you are not enough or less than, you're calling Me a liar, and I am not a man that I lie. You know this. So pick up your pen and begin again. Heed My voice in My Word, as you always do, and tell "the story" I put inside of you. You know it. I don't have to remind you. Begin again with renewed spirit, and the words will flow, your memory recharged."

So here I am again, writing. "The time will come when all these things come to pass. I know you worry about age, don't! Remember my servants. My servants still speak - your friends Oswald and Andrew, and yes, Brennan and Rich."

Tonight I received an email from Hope California who's in the beginning of revival and restoration with meetings scheduled soon. It shared:

"The world defines worth by success, comparison, or status, but the Gospel roots it in belonging. In Christ, you are loved, forgiven, chosen, and sent. Let every lie of shame or rejection fall away as you declare His truth over your life. Stand not as one earning approval, but as one already embraced. As you walk in that confidence, fear of rejection loses its grip, and your words of encouragement can breathe new identity into those who feel unseen or forgotten."

• Thank God that your identity is in Christ, renounce lies of shame, rejection, or insignificance, and declare God’s truth over yourself: loved, chosen, forgiven, and sent.  
• Pray that believers in LA would stand in their God-given identity and authority.  
• Ask God to raise up confident, humble sons and daughters across the city.  
• Pray that your secure identity in Christ would free you from fear of rejection when sharing your faith.  
• Ask God to open doors for you to speak identity and hope into those who feel lost, unseen, or ashamed. 

 I don't think this is coincidence!