Day 118 Yeshua, I Need You

 

4/28/2026

"Nothing comes from nothing; nothing never could."

"Something Good" from The Sound of Music

  

Our monthly Harvest Bible study group prayer meeting was last night, and it was a good end to the day.  Mary leads the meeting, and tonight she began by sharing a Carman video from back in the day where he was singing and dancing as he shared seven words for praise in the Hebrew language: Hallel - to praise and celebrate; Yadah - worship and adore with lifting the hands; Towdah - offering a sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving; Shabach - to shout and be triumph; Barak - to kneel and adore God; Zamar - to sing and play musical instruments; and Tehillah - singing and praising God in hymns and spiritual songs. What a fun way to begin a prayer meeting, entering into His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise! It brought back wonderful memories of Carman's ministry and concerts we were privileged to attend with the youth at the church when my children were young. Prayer meetings with my friends is the best way to end the day, especially when there is laughter.              

My morning began with worship, as it always does. It seems as if Alex, my wayward cat, seems to always show up just as I began to sing. He falls to sleep pretty quickly, and he does not demand my attention. This is my quiet time, so as long as he's a gentleman, it's okay. This morning as I read my daily Psalm I began to go over recent events in my life that have been causing me concern. I often think about the brevity of time and importance of relationships, and this morning I was asking God, as I do daily, to restore my family. So much has gone by the wayside, so my greatest desire is to see my children reconciled with their dad and each other. It is so sad to think that so many of my friends and acquaintances share the same prayer for their families. So we pray, and because this is a spiritual battle, we stand!

A song began to play, the lyrics speaking my heart: "Yeshua, I need you, more than words can ever say;  Yeshua, I need you. Every moment, every day be the flame within my soul, be the one who makes me whole; Yeshua, I need you."

As it turned out, this song was a great lead in to my Weekly Worship in my Daily Walk Bible, the subject -Looking Up from Down Under."  Sometimes I think God writes these verses and devotionals just for me. I don't believe in coincidences, only divine appointments, as there is just no way! This is my life. I cry out to Abba from the depth of my soul, and He hears me and answers. It's not always so quickly, but He answers, and He confirms, so the answers ripple. I love it!

The commentator noted that it's easy to become overwhelmed by foolish and sinful rebellion by people who profess to know God, but when we look at our own sinfulness, our difficult and dark times, we are brought much lower. I know personally that I don't want to let God down. I know that I am saved by grace, forgiven, but the memories never really leave, and I wish my life had been more God-honoring. I know the importance of examining our hearts daily, repenting when we slip or don't slip. Repentance is a good thing, a blessing, because it comes from a heart of worship, a heart that desires to be holy, live holy and close to God. Dwelling in His Presence and enjoying fellowship with Him daily. This is the life I live, the only life I want to live. It's the life I speak to my children about, and it's the one I teach about, my testimony of salvation and a life of surrender.

Looking at the Psalms of David we see that David was very transparent in his prayers to God. In Psalm 40 his faith perseveres during a heavy trial that brings him down into the depths of despair. What is characteristic of David's Psalms is although he may begin in a place of utter discouragement, suddenly he will make a change and begin to praise and worship the Shepherd of his soul. Psalm 40 is such an example. He starts in verses 1-4 by saying:

"I waited patiently for God to help me; then he listened and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out from the bog and the mire, and set my feet on a hard, firm path and steadied me as I walked along. He has given me a new song to sing, of praises to our God. Now many will hear of the glorious things he did for me, and stand in awe before the Lord, and put their trust in Him. Many blessings are given to those who trust the Lord and have no confidence in those who are proud, or who trust in idols." 

The Lord heard David's cry for help, His ears are ever attentive to our cries. This is the way God poured His love out on Israel as they constantly rebelled about Him, because He loved them, He chose them. He does the same for those who call on Him out of a pure spirit and contrite heart. He will never abandon His children. May we call out to the Lord and say to Him as David said in verse 8: "And I delight to do Your will, my God, for Your law is written upon my heart!'"   

Day 117 This is the Day - Be GLAD!

 

4/27/2026

 "Make sure the things you are living for

are worth dying for."

Daily Walk

 

It's a new day, the sun is up, and we have survived the night! As unsettling as that may sound, it's a good thing to wake up and thank God for another day. But this day is special, because it's my baby boy's birthday, and he is half a century old. He's like me regarding the age thing! People always ask how we feel turning a certain age, but we don't feel differently, unless the weather has changed, and it stiffens the joints. For some, like Daniel, it's just another day, no change from yesterday except he may have received a few calls from family and friends, when generally the only ones who call are the pharmacy for medication pick up or a telemarketer. What he is saying may sound a little apathetic for the Christian mind set, but I get what he's saying. I understand, as the devil loves to make us feel forgotten or a waste of space. He's good at that game, but that's why we can't allow him to bring negativity into our lives. Each day brings new possibilities, so we focus on the good rather than the mundane or non existent things.

Each day has its own discoveries, we have learned, so we try to focus not on irksome moments, choosing to redirect back to happy plans! Pollyanna again! Think on a reason to be glad! Let me think, "play the 'Glad Game!' I'm glad, ecstatic really, that I have a son who cares about his ole mama, and he even enjoys going places with someone who wears a faded, floppy hat and wears outdated clothing! I'm glad that, although in his younger years he was rebellious, that his life is turning around, and he is seeing that just because the enemy tries to steal our joy and wreck our dreams, that our God is greater. Perhaps, he, like me, was told "you can't do that" or "we can't afford it" BUT, God can redeem the time and bring restoration, even if, even IF, his fingers are stiff and sore! The music is still there! And, nothing is impossible for God! We just need to put Him first in our lives, and we need to walk in His ways, not ours, and certainly not in the world's example. I am grateful, because I have a son who as a young child wanted more than anything to be in the presence of God and serve Him. He wanted to play anointed music for Him, but this boy's dreams were squandered on lies. Nonetheless, dreams can be resurrected! I know, because I am still working on my own. So play on, my son, and with all my love and the love of an Adoring Abba Father, you will fulfill your God-given purpose. I believe in you! And, God created you!

Playing games can be fun. We tend to play silly games around here, and we get a little goofy most of the time, but it keeps us sane and looking ahead, rather than bemoaning the what-ifs or why-me mentality! This week has been a bit distressing, with news we'd rather not hear, but kind of expected. I don't understand why things turn out that way. Maybe as a test to see how we handle situations that come our way - another's hurt, or realizing that what we'd hoped for (the best) didn't happen. What does it take to wake someone up, to have them realize that they are breaking the hearts of the ones they claim to love? My life has been different, and I have been criticized for really caring and caring too much! (The expletives were removed!) Can someone care too much?

I'm proud of my son's ability to put the past behind and go forward, even to the point of putting his feelings aside for another's sake. I'm so grateful to God for giving me two sons that do that, even though one may begrudge certain circumstances, but even so, he does the right thing, the honorable thing. I am grateful. I am extreme blessed and glad!

Day 116 What Do You Love?

 

4/26/2026

"For the eyes of the Lord search back and forth across the whole earth,

looking for people whose hearts are perfect toward Him, so He can

show His great power in helping them."  

2 Chronicles 16:9

 

It's interesting to me that each time I read through the Bible certain passages that I've read before many times seem to jump off the pages and fresh revelation comes. Reading the Bible is never dull, as there is always something new and life changing. Not too long ago I was reading about Solomon's dedication of the temple, and how the people gathered and worshiped for seven days after which time they returned home happy and well-fed. Plus Solomon sent them home with fig cakes and wine and other delicacies. Today I was reading about the life of King Jehoshaphat, son of Asa, who was a good king just as his son turned out to be. In fact, 2 Chronicles 15:17 says that "But here in Judah and Benjamin the heart of King Asa was perfect before God throughout his lifetime." That's a pretty good legacy to pass on to a son. 

In considering Jehoshaphat's life we read in 2 Chronicles 17:3-4, 6: "The Lord was with Jehoshaphat because he followed in the good footsteps of his father's early years, and did not worship idols. He obeyed the commandments of his father's God.... He boldly followed the paths of God...." When he was in the third year of his reign he began a nationwide religious education program, sending out top officials as teachers into the cities of Judah teaching them the Scriptures found in the Book of the Law of the Lord. Because of his efforts scripture says that the fear of the Lord fell on the surrounding kingdoms, and some Philistines and Arabs presented annual gifts and tributes to him, allowing him to build more fortresses and supply cities, thus adding to his strength. The commentary states that "His first love was not wealth, power, or any of the kingly trappings, it was a love of and a delight in the Lord." 

What's your first love? is the question that follows, and the question that we should all be asking ourselves daily. The Lord is constantly asking me to check my motives to ensure that they remain pure and never self-serving. It is so easy to fall into the trap of desiring pats on the back, recognition for something, especially if one has endured a lifetime of being put down, made to feel less, never quite measuring up in the eyes of another, or constantly being told that they are incapable of doing what their heart so aches to do. I understand these feelings, but I am grateful to my God who has delivered me from the snare of the chief of all liars who has attempted to keep me pressed down under the stronghold of guilt, shame, and insecurity. No longer do I allow his lies to determine the course of my life, and when I see that demonic liar attempting to bring another person down, I rise up in holy righteousness and shout "No longer! Thus far and no further, enemy!" If nothing else, I have learned under the teaching of Holy Spirit how to stand in the authority of Almighty God, and I will teach others the same.

In the study of the Revelation of Jesus Christ, the Apostle John shares the words of Jesus to the seven churches. These were actual churches during that time of early church history, and they serve as examples to the modern church, if we choose to learn from the scriptures, it applies to each church today who claim to follow the teachings of Jesus and the Holy Scriptures. Just as Jesus spoke to the church of Ephesus about their good works, and there were many, as they truly desired to follow Christ, so He said, "Nevertheless, I have this against you, that you have lost your first love." (Revelation 2:4)

Jesus is speaking to the pastor of this church, the leader who is the shepherd of the flock, just as today. He is saying in the verses that follow: "Remember, therefore, from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent." What Jesus is saying is for them to remember when they were brand new converts, how zealous they were for the things of God, sharing with each other, going out into the community to share the good news. They weren't concerned about building programs or increasing their ministries to build their own church membership. It was about the kingdom of God, not about a single church, but the church of Jesus Christ. Beloved, we have indeed lost our first love, and if we look at the other examples of the remaining six churches, if we are honest, we will see glimpses of the same compromises or incidence of self-absorption. Jesus says to the church at Ephesus that if they do not repent and return to Him as their first love, then He will remove their lampstand. A lamp stand brings light to an area, and we, as the Body of Christ, are to bring light, His Light, to a world that is dying in sin and lawlessness. We must be who He called us to be - salt and light. And we cannot fall into compromise of any nature, as many churches are doing now. We must live by the truth of the word. God loves everyone, and His desire is to see all saved, but as Romans 6 points out, we cannot continue to sin and expect grace to abound. If we love, as Jesus loves, as God loves, there can be no compromise. We all have sinned, but God has delivered us from our sinful nature, and He has turned our lives around so that we no longer want to be like that. We want to be transformed to the image of God.

It's time to think about what or who we love. It is time to truly make a course adjustment unless we fall into the depths of depravity along with others. We must be salt and light. We must choose our First and Only Love. Jesus Christ the Righteous.

Day 115 Faithful to the End

 

4/25/2026

"I have no greater joy than to hear

that my children walk in truth."

3 John 4  

 

The skies appeared troubled, as thunder rolled, rain began to fall, and lightning sent an occasional flash across the horizon. Seemed rather ominous in its approach, but colder weather was already announcing a change, a shift in the barometric pressure. The past two days have been much warmer, so naturally, since weather can be fickle, anything could happen. And so goes the spiritual battle in the heavens far above our vision, yet demonstrating caution as mother nature sends forth her cues.

So that was the way the day began. Another Shabbat with an unexpected twist or two, but then I should be used to those. I never liked change before, but I am learning that God demonstrates His great power in ways we would not understand, and nature seems to get people's attention. So I wait, in expectation, not worrying or even concerned, as I know that whatever befalls we have been prepared, because that's the way God does things. 

Today marked the last day of America Reads the Bible being held at the Museum of the Bible and hosted by Great American Pure Flix. Last night the day was finished off by actor, Dean Cain reading John 5. This morning was kicked off with worship by Marty Goetz and his daughter Misha, and reading began with John 6 and continued through the end of Revelation. Marty took his turn reading Romans 9 - 11, some of the most powerful chapters in the Bible explaining the plans God has for the future of Israel and our part as believers. Marty, as a Jewish Messianic believer was certainly the person to read this portion of scripture, especially since the church has been deceived by Replacement Theology. I spent most of the day listening as the Word of God was being read aloud by scheduled guests. It was a powerful day, and I hope it has made an impact on each person and ministry who participated in the reading as well as those of us who followed online. 

On May 17th our President will be rededicating our nation to One Nation Under God, and many will be gathered in Washington at the National Mall to commemorate this event. It's going to be a busy weekend, because there will also be a conference in California called Giant Slayer Conference, and Jack Hibbs will be speaking at this event. 

Last night a little before 8:30 pm I believe, in Washington DC at the Hilton Hotel, President Trump and his wife, Melania, along with members of his administration and friends, were in attendance at the Correspondent's Conference when a young man ran through the secret security guard area, firing shots, armed with a shot gun, hand gun and several knives. Fortunately, he was arrested and taken into custody for what was believed to be an attempt on our President's life. Investigation is still under way. The secret service man who was shot at close range, fortunately was wearing a good bullet proof vest that probably saved his life. The President was taken back to the White House where he immediately held a press conference.

Yesterday I was considering the brevity of time, and when things happen, as the unexpected event of last night in Washington, it makes the subject that much more concerning. Paul the Apostle chosen by Jesus Christ to take the gospel to the gentiles spoke of finishing well. Jesus spoke of counting the cost as His followers, and that those who follow Him, surrendering their lives to Him, must be serious, because He says the one who sets his hand to the plow and then turns back is not fit for the kingdom. I know how I feel and the response I have made, and I also know the cost I have paid for my life. But as much as I continue to check my motives, asking myself why I am doing this, I know that I do love Him, because He first loved me. And if I love Him with such a love, then my love for others will spontaneously overflow, making it much easier to persevere in these difficult days. 

Last night, after all of this, I was put to another test of what was most important to me, God or another. It was really silly, because if I hadn't cared I wouldn't have answered the phone. But still hurting people tend to take their anger out on someone else, because they feel helpless to confront the one who brought the hurt. I must be everyone's boxing bag, because I received a lot of back lash not of my making. 

In spite of everything that happened, and in spite of what may happen, I have decided that I will greet each day with gratitude, thanking my Abba for His gift of new life hidden in Christ Jesus my Lord, and I will sing and rejoice in it. In the evening as I fall into bed, again I will rejoice and be glad. There is always something good for which to say Thank You, Abba Father! for each breath and each new opportunity for the day! May we be found faithful when He returns.    

Day 114 Something Good

 

4/24/2026

 "...whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. 

For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away."

 James 4:14

 

For years I have kept a separate daily journal listing what I am thankful for each day, including calls I make and calls received from friends and family members who suddenly remembered that I live across the country or who'd stumbled over an old letter I'd written them that had been misplaced. It's always a thrill for me when someone remembers me, even as just a passing thought. I got an unexpected call from a friend saying she'd been to the Chile Cook Off in New Mexico, a regular annual benefit for the soup kitchen, and missed me. Three of us got together regularly for this event, judging the chili, or to eat or attend special events. I miss my friends and the things we used to do. 

I began keeping the daily list at the end of 2016. That's the year that the world turned upside down for me, but then I've had many such things happen throughout my life like that, but I'm still smiling. I wanted to put things down daily that I was grateful for, as a way to say "Thank You, Abba." I don't always show gratitude, but I want to do better. Plus I wanted to write down positive things that happened, because the world was getting so crazy. I needed to see something good. The top of each page looks like this:

 "Show me Something Good"

 "Thank You, Abba, for giving me another breath today! How will I use it?" 

 "Show me a sign for good that those who hate me may see it and be ashamed, 

because You, LORD, have helped me and comforted me."

Psalm 86:17 

I remember on Good Friday that year that, in my haste to get ready for work, I tripped and in an effort to keep from retrieving one more blow to my head, I reached out my arm to keep my head from hitting the corner of the door frame. That's when I heard a crack. All I remember is that it was extremely painful, so I laid down in the floor, and pulled my arm over my head to pop the shoulder back into place, thus relieving a little of the discomfort. I didn't see any bones sticking out or any bleeding out. There was a rather large patch of blood pooling under the skin, but I figured it was just going to bruise, so I finished getting dressed, with great difficulty, and I made my way across the house to my office. Trying to type and maintain my focus was difficult with all the pain, but I managed. 

Eventually I had to go to the doctor, because I had a four - to - six inch long by three inch wide area of under the skin bleeding that was not improving. Since doctors aren't allowed to do MRI's without a real good reason, my diagnosis went unnoticed until I had been tortured by a physical therapist who finally realized after several weeks... "You're not getting any better, are you?"As it turned out I had chipped off some shoulder bone, and I had mangled some ligaments and stuff in the arm. The surgeon felt that I would eventually need surgery, but I told him that God would fix me. He didn't believe me, but eventually after having the care of a specialized physical therapist, I improved, and I never needed surgery. 

This was also the year that one of my case management client's son tripped and fell slamming his head into mine, injuring my head, jaw, and neck. I didn't want a workman's comp case, but I managed to get one that wasn't settled until 2018, but the medical insurance remains open in case I need care. Since then I've had the noise in my head that I speak of often as bugs or woodsy night sounds, and I have pain that shoots through my temple into my eye. That's an additional pain to accompany the one from 1980 when I was attacked and hit with a 2x4 one night when someone came out from hiding behind my wood pile. That blow to the head was on the same side except on the top of my head, so the pain shoots down into the same eye. No one seems to be interested in that, plus my neurologist died from his own neurological issues and a broken heart from not being allowed to treat his patients. There are actually doctors who sincerely care about their patients, but insurance hinders their treatment. That's another topic to discuss at a later time. 

I have an aunt who is about ten years my senior. She recently celebrated her 86th birthday, and she said that she celebrated all week. I had shared with her about my 2007 Mercury Milan that I bought when I lost my 2017 Nissan Sentra in a recent accident, and she said she'd sold her car. It's hard for me to believe that she's already feeling that she's at an age where she no longer wants to drive, but then, I understand, especially since that man ran my son off the road without stopping to see if he was okay. At least she enjoyed her birthday. I used to celebrate my birthday for a week, shut down everything, toss the cell phone away, totally enjoying my time. Whenever I needed a break or just wanted to smell fresh mountain air, at a higher elevation than I lived, I'd make the trip through the pass to Taos and on to Sipapu Resort where I'd disappear for a few days. I miss those days, but I am grateful for the experience.

As my 76th birthday nears I have been thinking about things I need to do, just in case, and I also want to finish some things I've started. I don't know why, but as much as I love traveling, I don't have a desire to drive. Maybe my son's accident shook me up too much. He turns 50 on Monday, and he's already saying the same thing. He wants to go to New Mexico to see his kids, and I wish we could go together, but we have cats. If we drove we could take them along, but that may be a bit much for some family. But we'll figure it out. If for no other reason, since returning here to Virginia, I am seeing that life is shorter than we think, so it's important to tell the people you love that you love them, before one of us pass on. Relationships are so important, but many times, most times sadly, they are one-sided. I've discovered that. Everyone is busy, and life just isn't the same as it was when I was growing up, when the extended family was a tightly knit. How I miss those days. I guess I really haven't progressed as much as some of my cousins or friends, as I wouldn't even have a cell phone or computer if I didn't need one. But now everything is expected to be handled digitally. Sometimes I think progress is not really such a big deal. Physical contact is a more rewarding experience, even if people are still wearing masks. I don't get it, but I guess it's fear that keeps them from being free, breathing air. 

Tomorrow is another day, so maybe I'll reach out to someone, even if I only get a voice message. Gotta start some where!

Day 113 Time Well Spent

 

4/23/2026

 "Come now, you who say, 'Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend 

 a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit;' whereas you do not know what will 

  happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears 

                                                      for a little time and then vanishes away."                                             

 James 4:13-14

 

I've been thinking a lot about time and the brevity of it. The closer it gets to my birthday and another year, I wonder if I made the best use of the time given me thus far. In studying the life of Solomon and Rehoboam, his son, the commentary states that "Rehoboam followed the Lord only as long as it was politically expedient. Once his kingdom was solidly established, he had no further use for the law of the Lord - or the Lord of the law. But in the end, it was Rehoboam who was the loser for his foolish decision." The consequence of this decision was a divided kingdom with Jeroboam leading Israel and ten of the tribes, leaving Rehoboam with his tribe and Benjamin. The tribe of Judah did have a king on the throne of David as God covenanted with David, until Judah was exiled to Babylon. In this line of David there were mostly good kings as opposed to all evil kings who reigned in Israel, turning from God to the worship of idols. Although Rehoboam repented and cried out to the Lord, he was not completely destroyed, but he was an evil king who never decided to fully trust in God. His son, Abijah became the next king, and he too did evil in the eyes of the Lord. 

The commentary poses a little query:

"Think of your life as a shiny new penny. You can spend it any way you wish, but you can only spend it once. And you cannot spend half a penny - it's an 'all or nothing' transaction. Find a penny and hold it in your hand as you talk to God about your life...and how you will invest the remaining years of it in his service."

Our study group tonight looked at the scriptures found in Luke 12:1-48 and asked the question "What owns you?" We discussed how fear could quietly control our lives, taking different positions from earliest childhood fears to those we encounter in later years, that keep us stuck in cycles. I fully understand how to be dragged around and sucked down into a rabbit hole of guilt and shame for literal years, living in fear of never accomplishing my dreams, afraid to even have a dream. I felt as if I would never be good enough after all my failures. The Lord was blessing me, but I knew I wasn't worthy. Every time I tried to go forward, I'd be knocked down and trampled on for affect by trusted people in my life. I laugh about it now, because I've always been a person who persevered and kept body and soul together. Life has a way of preparing us for the next step and then the next. The pity would be never having taken those steps.

Pastor Jonathan pointed out that:

"Jesus redirects our focus away from fearing people and toward reverence for God. Not a fear that pushes us away, but one that rightly centers our lives on Him. When we understand His authority and His care, down to knowing every detail about us, it frees us from living for the approval of others and anchors us in what actually matters." 

The next consideration was hypocrisy that spreads when faith becomes performance - checking off boxes of things that we feel make us look good, like good little Christian examples, but it's all a show, a lie. There are no boxes to check that qualify us for the kingdom of God. There's only Jesus. His blood washes us clean. That's it!

Often we become consumed with having, and our focus is on accumulating wealth, possessions, recognition, and our priorities become all mixed up, and we can even lose our identity. We lose focus and turn our affections to worldly things, but Jesus says for us to "seek first the kingdom of God, and all these things will be added to you" (Luke 12:31). Matthew 6:19-21 says, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Then there's the subtle trap of thinking that we have so much time, but really we are not promised tomorrow, only today. We are to live without fear, trusting Him, with clarity and purpose, knowing that our deeds reflect what's truly in our hearts. Living for today, in God's way. There's a saying that is attributed to John Wesley, but I have also seen it as a quote from Mother Teresa. Both great examples of living the purpose driven life. "Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can."

May this be the focus and intent of our hearts. 

Day 112 Yom HaAtzma'ut

 

4/22/2026

 "Do not rejoice over me, my enemy;
When I fall, I will arise;
When I sit in darkness,
The Lord will be a light to me."

Micah 7:8

 

As the day drew to a close yesterday, the observance of Yom HaZikaron ended, and as the new day began, Israel began to celebrate Yom HaAtzma'ut, their Independence Day. A day of grief, mourning, and remembrance turned to a day of celebration over the birth of their nation. Today marks 78 years since Israel became a nation again. Even though yesterday was a time of mourning and remembering those who had fallen defending this great nation, today was a day of rejoicing and joy! According to a report: "This historic moment came after nearly 2,000 years of exile following the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD. The re-establishment of Israel fulfilled numerous biblical prophecies concerning the regathering of the Jewish people to their land (Isaiah 66:8; Ezekiel 36–37)."

Last night I watched a brief segment of the celebration, and I got to see the President of Argentina, Javier Milei, perform on stage with the musicians, singing in Hebrew with great enthusiasm and a little dancing. He was honored to light one of the torches for the ceremonies. He was also awarded Israel's highest civilian award, the Presidential Medal of Honor, by President Isaac Herzog recognizing his strong support, especially in return of the hostages. Milei also announced his plans to move the Argentina embassy to Jerusalem. There is a strong bond between the nations of Israel and Argentina, and it has been a joy watching the friendship grow and blossom! 

Today I attended an online event hosted by Israel365 in Jerusalem for an Independence Day celebration with reading the Hallel (Praise) and enjoying music and testimonies by Christians who support Israel. The Hallel is a group of Psalms 113 - 118 that are read at celebrations and appointed feasts and "serve as reminders of major milestones in Jewish heritage, including the Exodus, the giving of the Torah, and the hope for the Messianic Age. The intentional transition from mourning to celebration—within a single day—reflects a profound truth: the cost of redemption and the faithfulness of God to restore a people to their inheritance."

This is an exciting time to be standing with Israel as prophecy is being played out right before our eyes, and the eyes of the Orthodox Jews, because the scriptures are so clearly being seen, and the relationship between the Christians and the Jews is growing and encouraged. Since 10/7/2023, many have been returning to their faith in God, which is the Biblical heritage of the chosen people of God. As we stand in prayer with our friends, we pray that their spiritual eyes will be enlightened, and they will come to faith in Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord. The fields are indeed ripe for harvest. This is also a time when God is returning those exiled to other countries back to Jerusalem as according to the word spoken in Isaiah 43:1-7:

"But now, thus says the LORD, who created you, O Jacob, and He who formed you, O Israel: 'Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you: and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I gave Egypt for your ransom, Ethiopia and Seba in your place. Since you were precious in My sight, you have been honored, and I have loved you; therefore I will give men for you, and people for your life. Fear not, for I am with you; I will bring your descendants from the east, and gather you from the west; I will say to the north, "Give them up!" And to the south, "Do not keep them back!" Bring My sons from afar and My daughters from the ends of the earth - Everyone who is called by My name, whom I have created for My glory; I have formed him, yes I have made him.'"

This is the promise of the Lord. As we stand together, we pray for leaders of our nations, Benjamin Netanyahu and President Donald J Trump to continue to work in unity and harmony especially during this time with war between Israel and Iran. But make no mistake, as this war has been ongoing, and the goal of the jihadist Iranian government has not only called for the extermination of the Jewish people, but also America. The leaders and imams have been very vocal in their plans and threats against our nations, and it appears now that the leaders of Iran have been killed, that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corp (IRGC) leaders still plan to carry out the threats. Back in 1948 when Iran was recognized by Ben Gurion as a State, they immediately came under attack from the Muslims, but they were able to maintain their independence at a great cost. Israel has continued to face such challenges with wars over the 78 years of being a nation, called back by God who gave the land to Israel in covenant with Abraham. I am so grateful to be part of that covenant as a believer in Christ, grafted in as a supporter of the chosen people. I will continue to stand on the wall with my fellow intercessors according to Isaiah 62:6-7: "I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; they shall never hold their peace day or night. You who make mention of the LORD, do not keep silent, and give Him no rest till He establishes and till He makes Jerusalem a praise in the earth."

Am Israel Chai! 

Day 111 Yom HaZikaron

 

4/21/2026

 "I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; they shall never hold their peace day or night. 

You who make mention of the Lord, do not keep silent, and give Him no rest till 

 He establishes and till He makes Jerusalem a praise in the earth."

Isaiah 62:6-7 

 

This has been another emotional day for me as Israel observes their Memorial Day honoring the IDF soldiers who have given their lives for their country and for victims of terrorism. It is a time they remember those who gave their lives when Israel was attacked on 10/7/2023. Yesterday I mentioned Rachel Goldberg-Polin who spoke out boldly on behalf of her son, Hersh, who was badly injured and taken into captivity by Hamas. She was the most vocal, and the most well-known by everyone across the nation and the world for the valiant efforts she made speaking on behalf of the hostages and their families. 

Many have lost their lives in service to their country, but this has been a way of life for Israel. When an Israeli reaches their 18th birthday they are enlisted into service with the Israel Defense Force (IDF) - sons and daughters. There are even those who are not Israeli born citizens who volunteer to join the army, including Arabs living in Israel and Gentiles from other nations who call Israel home. The love the people of Israel have for their country is inspiring. They are also a very resilient people who continue to go on in spite of every evil they have had to face that comes against them or threatens their right to exist as a nation. I am proud to be a friend of Israel and continue to stand on the wall as an intercessor.

The scripture says, "And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it." (1 Corinthians 12:26) This is definitely how we feel about Israel and about the people. There is no one living and serving in Israel who has not been personally touched by the extreme loss of precious lives. Every life is a blessing, a blessed memory. ZAKA is the volunteer group that handles investigations and identification of victims, and they are also responsible for the care of the deceased. They are careful to remove remains and blood from the trauma sites, preserving the dignity of the deceased. This is another example of how every Israeli cares for the welfare of each other. They share each others' sorrows and grieve, but they also rejoice with others even in the midst of personal suffering and loss.

For Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu this is a day he remembers his older brother, Yonatan Netanyahu, who was killed in action on July 4, 1976 during the Battle of Entebbe (Operation Entebbe) in Uganda. He was the commander of the Sayeret Matkal unit, that led the operation that rescued 102 hostages from a hijacked Air France plane being held by German and Palestinian militants at the Entebbe Airport. He was the only Israeli who lost his life. He was 30 years old, and he is a hero not only to Israel but to Uganda. He paid the ultimate sacrifice laying down his life for others. Prime Minister Netanyahu returns to the site to pay honor to his brother annually on July 4th.

Observance of Memorial Day began last evening as the sun went down. One day ends and another begins. Tonight when the sun goes down, and the new day begins, Israel will be celebrating their Independence Day going from grief to joy in one smooth move. A day of grief followed quickly by a day of celebration. This is life in Israel. 

Day 110 Much to Consider

 

4/20/2026

 "And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, 

  knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; 

for you serve the Lord Christ"

 Colossians 3:23-24

 

Although last night was another up and down encounter, with back pain and restless legs to boot, I still woke up early and surprisingly refreshed in spite of little real sleep. I had a doctor's appointment scheduled for today, and although I just haven't wanted to go anywhere and do anything lately, because of health challenges, I pulled myself up and off I went. My appointments are always early afternoon because of early morning daily calls with the embassy in Jerusalem, so I always plan my day around these prayer calls. I took the scenic route through the woods, even though it takes longer, but it was nice going through the country back roads, off the beaten path. On the way home I stopped at the Family Dollar for some birthday cards, then the Amish store to pick up my gluten free bread, and finally Food Lion for a few necessities. Apparently they are short-handed as the shelves needed to be restocked in some areas, plus I heard a worker mention so as I left. It seems as if everyone needs workers around here, yet no one wants to work. If no one works, why complain about prices? It seems as if everyone wants a free ride with all the benefits without working for it. I'll soon be 76, and I have reconsidered going back to work should things get tighter for my senior budget. There are ample opportunities here making a good wage, and there are many job openings doing what I used to do as a case manager, but I don't want that responsibility. Who knows, I think about helping others, and that is the best way, as the system is definitely broken, and work as hard as the present government is trying to do, more help is needed. It breaks my heart, but for now, I am doing what I am supposed to be doing, and hopefully, I'm doing it well.

This evening the Israeli Memorial Day began, Yom HaZikaron, which honors fallen soldiers and remembers the deaths of those who died on 10/7/2023. It's very emotional for me, but tomorrow I will honor all those who have given their lives, but I also will grieve with the family members who have lost loved ones. Rachel Goldberg-Polin is the mother of former Hamas hostage Hersh Goldberg - Polin who was kidnapped in Gaza on 10/7/2023 and later assassinated with five others while in captivity. Rachel traveled every where asking for help to free the hostages, but help was not found soon enough. Thankfully our president was able to assist with the return of the remaining hostages. Tomorrow I may speak more about this, but it's too fresh right now, because I just listened to Rachel speak to a reporter on 60 Minutes who had met her before this interview. He even became choked up at one point, and he paused in his comments. Hersh was only 23 years old, referred to as her only son, but he had two sisters. Those who died with him were Carmel Gat, 40; Eden Yerushalmi, 24; Ori Danino, 25; Alexander Lobanov, 33; and Almog Sarusi, 27, executed and shot numerous times at close range right before the IDF found them in the tunnels. It was a very sad day, as they all were. 

As the rise in antisemitism gets crazier and people become more violent, there has been a conflict in Europe with Eurovision 2026 about banning Israel's participation after the threats received last year. However, there are vast numbers of celebrities who are finally opening their mouths and speaking out for these participants stating that these competitions have nothing to do with the current conflicts involving Israel. Why should these extremely talented young people be prevented from pursuing their dreams? Now that is a question we should consider in the United States and elsewhere. Why can't a young person, a middle-aged person, or an older person be banned or mistreated simply because they have a Jewish culture? In America anyone who wants to pursue their dreams as a citizen can do so. I have a blended heritage, as most people do, and I went to school. I had to get a scholarship and a loan, but I went, and I worked to pay off my own debt. I had nothing, but my husband worked hard, and we had three children, a mortgage, a car payment, and debts. We did it! I am very grateful when others need assistance and are able to receive it, and when I could help, I did, and I still do. That's the way I was raised. All this hate is ugly, just as it was when I was a little girl born in the 50's, but I thank God He shielded me from the hate. He only gave me love, and it grows daily for everyone, especially those who lead without conscience in our State. I pray for their salvation just as ardently as I do for others. Let's see how it turns out tomorrow after the polls close, and the votes are tallied.

My day would not have been complete without accidentally seeing an article in my Christian news about our former vice president speaking against our President at a woman's caucus. The criticisms were absurd and anyone with an education and who is able to read the news would know they were laughable lies. Yet, I'm sure she received a standing ovation, because that is just how evil things have become. While no one is perfect, there is a time when we must see with clear vision, speak out for truth, and expose the lies. But even if, God says that whatever is done in secret will be exposed by Him in the light, plus we all will reap what we have sown. I am grateful to hear Senator Federman speak out about the status of his party and his feelings. Perhaps someone else will speak out now, before the list of those who are up for re-election who are not going to run grows greater, probably because of fear of speaking the truth. It is easier to run and hide. The church does the same, sadly, but the day is coming, in fact, it is here now, when we must say, "Never Again!" 

Day 109 America Reads the Bible

 

 4/19/2026

"Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin

is a reproach to any people."  

Proverbs 14:34 

 

Today marks the beginning the America Reads the Bible as ministry leaders and national and international leaders, CEOs and ordinary people from all walks of life take their turn at the podium from Museum of the Bible's World Stage to read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation in one week.  One week One nation One book! The idea was inspired by Bunni Pounds:

"Bunni Pounds is the Founder and President of Christians Engaged as well as a Senior Vice President for Family Policy Alliance and Family Policy Alliance Foundation founded by Dr. James Dobson. She is the author of Jesus and Politics: One Woman’s Walk with God in a Mudslinging Profession and the upcoming book with the foreword by Candace Cameron Bure - Stepping Up to Lead: Rebuilding a Nation in the Footsteps of Nehemiah. She hosts two podcasts - Jesus for America, a devotional podcast teaching through scripture, and Conversations with Christians Engaged, an interview weekly show inspiring people to pray, vote, and engage ongoing." 

According to Intercessor's for America's post, "Pounds said the purpose of the marathon is to 'call the American people back to daily Bible reading for the well-being of our country.'  She hopes young leaders of tomorrow 'will rise to really fix the leadership crisis that we have in our country.'”

In Nehemiah 8:1-3, Ezra read the Word of God aloud to the people of Israel resulting in an "awakening revival and repentance" which inspired the people to get back to rebuilding the temple. Nehemiah was a contemporary of Ezra who had been sent back to Jerusalem by King Darius of Persia to rebuild the temple. Nehemiah served as the cupbearer of King Artaxerxes of Persia, and he had received news from a friend that the walls of Jerusalem were broken down and the gates burned. Upon hearing this news, he told the King who sent him back to Jerusalem temporarily to rebuild the walls. So Nehemiah mobilized the people, and overcoming opposition, they rebuilt the walls, and the temple was completed. Just as Nehemiah had to mobilize the people, Bunni Pounds feels that "America Reads the Bible is a sacred opportunity to call our nation back to its spiritual foundations. Through a public, continuous reading of the entire Bible in our nation’s capital by our national leaders from all spheres of influence, we believe God can spark revival in individual hearts and inspire Americans to carry the Word forward in their lives and communities into the next 250 years of our national story."

Just as in Ezra and Nehemiah's day, the call of America to rededicate our nation as One Nation Under God has met with opposition by many, sadly by those who serve in positions of leadership and in Congress. This should be a bipartisan effort to bring honor to our nation by giving honor to the God we serve, the One who makes all things possible, but sadly this is not happening.

Because of the sad state of our nation, the in-fighting and open, and often inflammatory comments made against each other, our nation is in trouble. Now is the time to humble ourselves and pray, seek God, as     2 Chronicles 7:14 instructs. It is a time to put aside hostility and stand in solidarity. The National Day of Pray will be honored on May 7th, and it will be another time for us to repent of our sins, humble ourselves and seek God's face. May we answer the call.

One Week. One Nation. One  

Day 108 These are the Days of My Life

 

4/18/2026

"We should all be concerned about the future, 

because we will have to spend the rest of our lives there."

Daily Walk

   

An early day today! Saturdays are usually my favorite days, because they are days of rest, relaxation, worship and singing, rejoicing, and listening to the word. Today was a very difficult and tricky text for Pastor Bill to go over, but I must say he gave us much to consider. The main reading was from the book of Leviticus, and it covered the laws for holiness as they related to personal hygiene and leprosy. Sounds like pretty heavy and intensely personal stuff, but really it can be understood from a somewhat different light if we look at it from a relative point of view which is what Bill does. I appreciate that about his teaching methods. We all need to know how to live in this world, because as Christians we represent a holy God, and we want to be examples of His righteousness to a world that's lost its way. 

When I was growing up my Mama and Grammy always had sayings for every occasion. With regards to personal hygiene and wearing clean clothes, they'd say "cleanliness is next to Godliness," or even if our clothes were older they'd say that they would "make clean come." Now I'm not exactly sure what that means, but I got their meaning, and I made sure that even if my clothes weren't store bought or perfect, as long as they were clean, the Lord didn't care. He cared that they were clean and fresh, and that I brushed my teeth, combed my hair, and took a bath. Or at least that is what I was led to believe. I was glad about that, because I always liked to look my best, and I can't remember being mistreated by anyone if my clothes were older. In fact Mama and Grammy both sewed, so I was blessed to have homemade dresses. I was always proud of my homemade clothing. As I got older, they taught me to sew, and I made clothes for my children and even made my husband shirts. The first one I made him I put the buttons on the wrong side, but he wore it anyway and never complained. When my older son graduated from high school, I made him a multi-patterned rayon shirt which was the rage at that time. He was the valedictorian, so I hope he felt special, as he loved that shirt. I asked him recently what happened to that masterpiece, and he said it went out of fashion. But fashion styles do circle back around, as history repeats itself. I'm still wearing skirts I made myself thirty-five years ago, and the rayon still looks brand new. I still receive compliments, and that makes me feel good, even though very few people wear ankle-length skirts. Virginians generally do not appreciate the Santa Fe style, but maybe I'll change the fashion mode!

Today marked Rosh Chodesh, the second month of the year on the Jewish calendar called Iyyar which marks a month of new beginnings. Just as the first month of the year, Nisan, began with Passover which marked the of the birth of the nation of Israel through their deliverance from Egypt, the month of Iyyar marks a time of healing and personal growth. When the children of Israel went through the desert they began to complain about not having food, and they grumbled about leaving the comfort of Egypt to starve in the desert. The Lord provided manna, bread from heaven, each day, but over a period of time and testing, the people complained about the same old stuff. The purpose of the daily manna along with the daily meal of quail, was to show them that God was their deliver and provider. It was a way of humbling  them and making them see their dependence on God who loved them and was going with them on their journey to the Promised Land. Several times they grumbled and wanted to return to the false security of Egypt, but God always heard their cries, and He always answered. Still, they had to pay the price for their rebellion, eventually through the death of an entire generation for their failure to believe that God would do what He said He would do. Why can't we just trust Him?!

As afternoon wore on my day became somewhat agitated by phone calls, texting, and other distractions at the wrong times. My relaxing and peaceful morning, recuperating from my tense and sleepless nights was becoming frought with confusion and anxiety. Even my cat has been a little more antsy than usual, as if someone is lurking behind him ready to pounce on him. Who knows what he encounters in his feral lifestyle in the wilds of Dinwiddie Gardens!

My windchimes were gently blowing in the breeze, and although they are supposed to be engineered to play Amazing Grace, what I discern is a blend of harmony and melody struggling against the breeze, but still pleasing in it's own way. So I can still hear and feel God's amazing grace, even so! Plus my imagination can harmonize the correct tune in my head, along with the bug sounds of trauma within my head that plays its raucous melody continuously. But I do find rest and peace. I have learned to do so in spite of whatever chaos or discordance drifts into my day attempting to bring disharmony. 

Later on in the evening after my son had his internet satellite aligned to receive the proper balance in order to function well, I was able to once again settle in to calm, and when I did finally pick up the phone in my self-defense, my daughter was happy again, and her topsy-turvy world had somehow righted itself, and she wanted to laugh again. 

These are the days of my life.  

Day 107 Higher Ground

 

4/17/2026

"You cannot lift your children

to a higher plane than the one on which

you live yourself."

Daily Walk

 

My alarm faithfully rang at 7 am, but I remained peacefully in bed, waking up intermittently until I drifted back to sleep. I hadn't slept well, as I didn't fall asleep until after 3:30 am. For some reason, try as hard as I might, I could not rest. So when the alarm went off, naturally I wasn't able to drag myself up, and so it went, drifting in and out of sleep, until almost 9 am! When I glanced at the clock and saw the time that got me moving! My prayer call was in about 30 minutes, and I hadn't prepared my heart. Whereas I know that God was not disappointed in or upset with me, I was very irate at myself for giving into the flesh and craving "just a little more time" to wake up. I am my own worst enemy!

Checking Israel's alerts I was happy to see that there had not been any rockets fired in Israel, and I was  relieved that the ceasefire in Lebanon did happen, while Iran continued to honor their ceasefire. I was able to get it all together, join the call and afterwards enjoy my quiet time, before I headed outside to finish cutting the grass. Seeing a freshly mowed lawn, in spite of more weeds than grass, warmed my heart. I didn't see my cat, Alex, until much later in the evening, however, because the in-house drama between my cat and my son's cat, Mia, who is a house cat, continues. The drama has become a daily encounter, as Mia is trying to keep the interloper out of her territory. I have to laugh, because she will vacate any room or flat service if we rattle the treat bag. In fact that's her plan, but it seldom works these days. Cats have a mind of their own, but I will not be moved!

As I continued my reading in 1 Chronicles I revisited King David's rise to the throne of Israel and his desire to build a temple for the Lord. Because David was a man of war, God denied his request, but He promised David that his son, Solomon, would be the next king, and he would build the temple for Him. David humbled himself before the Lord, and he praised God for his kindness to him in making him king and establishing a covenant with him and his family. God's plans will always be fulfilled, and it brings Him great joy when we obey His commands, walking in His plan. God entrusted David and Solomon with a greater, higher plan, and His plans would not be thwarted then or now.

In considering the rulers of Israel and Judah once Israel became a divided kingdom, it is difficult for me to understand how a godly king can have an ungodly successor, especially given David's leadership and Solomon's, yet in Judah the pattern was followed as it was in Israel. But for the most part Judah was ruled by men who loved God and whose rule was pleasing to God. I know that they were not perfect, but King David and Solomon loved God and obeyed His precepts. In the end Solomon's wives and concubines pulled him away from God, and he worshiped their false God's which led to a divided kingdom when his son ruled after him. He did not follow in God's ways as did his father.

Something happened in the afternoon that upset me, and although the matter is not completely resolved, I feel more peaceful about it, and I know that in spite of how things initially may have appeared on the surface, some decisions are made against another's express desires in order to have peace in the home. In speaking about children who do not always follows in God's ways, and who may not always make wise making choices, some seem to think only of themselves, but, I must say that my sons have not disappointed me, because when put to the maximum test, they chose honorably. Although people may judge what they do not know, when it comes down to making decisions that put others first, they do. Perhaps at a later time I will have the opportunity to share more personally, but it encourages me to know that my children know what Jesus would do, even if one of them is rebelling against Him. He will return, I have no doubt. Even when our children may not agree with us, they do watch us to see if we are consistent in word and deed. This is the higher plane, and I set my standards high for myself, because I serve a holy God, and I want to bring Him glory. I pray my children see His character in me and pursue the same. 

After a somewhat different day, I learned that the crew of Artemis II were sharing their experiences with the public, and in their description of God's creation and the awesome power of the universe, all His marvelous wonders, they shared the same feeling that given all that space we should learn to get along and seek peace, or something along those lines. It's wise counsel! 

Day 106 What Makes Sense?

 

4/16/2026

"We know that the whole creation groans and labors

with birth pangs together until now."

Romans 8:22

 

Since yesterday afternoon I have been puzzling over a series of events, news reports, special meetings, and a barrage of mostly garbage! The morning began well, and as I explained in yesterday's post I began studying 1 Chronicles, and David's family tree dating back to Adam. Afterwards, the prayer call began with a worship song - "Hodu Adonai Ki Tov" - Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good - as we always focus on the goodness of the Lord in every situation. I even listened to an inspiring message from C.S. Lewis on Gratitude called Thank Jesus for Today. It was a wonderful reminder that from the moment we wake up, we have so much for which to be thankful to God: 

"And the more I thank Him the more clearly I see Him, and the more clearly I see Him, the more beauty I find even in broken things. Even in unfinished days to thank Christ is to witness the world being made new even before anything around me changes." 

Afterwards I was able to cut the back yard and rid the crepe myrtle of those beastly Virginia Creeper vines that are beginning to appear again. Those evil vines, just like besetting sins, are tenacious! Hopefully, I avoided any contact with the poisonous oxalates located in the plant. There is much more to attend to, but I'll finish the side and front yards next. My life never lacks excitement or adventure!

But what got to me finally, on an emotional level, was noticing varying ways people are being distracted by important things, but things that are take their focus from the more important things or people. Going through morning emails can be a great chore, because there are so many. It's very tiring to spend the day deleting a ton of emails.I literally fell into bed last night I had become so exhausted by things I had seen, heard, and experienced. Terry MacAlmon's worship time on Wednesday evening is a lifesaver and a time where I find peace in the presence of God.

I'm struggling in knowing how to put into words just what I'm thinking, because it defies words, any that make sense, that is. I'm still so shook up by certain discoveries that I grabbed three Nutter Butter cookies and ate them. A no no, because they are full of gluten and sugar, and I am certain a bunch of preservatives and other garbage. My way of dealing with something is to eat a cookie...which isn't altogether bad - not the best health wise either - but gluten is not my friend. Oddly, one church meeting I attended online was hosting a man who specializes in eating Biblically. I only watched a half hour, as I've heard it all before, plus he mentioned Dr. Oz and Robert Kennedy's research, so I've already heard this information many times. My lifestyle has always been a simple one, because that's the way I was raised. It has changed from eating canned vegetables to eating fresh garden vegetables or frozen ones, but I was raised on solid food for the most part. My sister still has a garden and cans vegetables, so she shares with me. My garden did not pan out last year, and I don't know if I have the strength to prepare the soil and try again. My struggle of the past six weeks has taken a toil on my system, so I lack the energy, the "want to." Perhaps that will change as I get back outside and finish mowing the grass and pulling weeds. I sincerely hope so, as I love being outside. I would love to take off my shoes and run through the grass, but I'm afraid I'll step in a hole made by my mole friends, plus there are so many bees in the clover, and I am deathly allergic to certain ones. 

As I was posting an article on my Facebook page, a short came up in my news feed, so I decided to listen. While I could understand the logic behind the comments, and I could Biblically agree, I could not agree with the possible damaging affects his comments may have on people who leave everything to God to fix, as if we are supposed to sit safely in our homes or on the front pews at church and not do our part. I don't understand this way of thinking, when the Bible is so clear.

I was invited to a forum discussing present situations in America and Israel by a distinguished panel, but I was already aware of the concerns, so I preferred to spend my time listening to Terry MacAlmon's An Hour with Jesus show on YouTube, as I briefly mentioned above. That always lifts me up and sets my feet on higher and more solid ground. Terry was involved with Integrity Music along with Don Moen, who also has a worship time on YouTube earlier in the day on Wednesday. I was able to tune in to his right after my daily prayer call. Maybe this is what strengthened me so I could go outside and work. Never underestimate the power of prayer, praise, and worship! Later I turned on Mario Murillo's Fire Power, with Todd Coconato, both from Tennessee. Mario is an evangelist who continues to work under the big top - tent revivals. He's old school, and in a world that turns revivals and church services into rock concerts, it is refreshing to be acquainted with a men who only fears God. The subject was dismal sounding - Stop Them from Destroying Us -but it was truthful, informative, yet alarming.

This morning I awakened to a beautiful day, praised God for His wonder, and remembered the crazy dream that had awakened me in which people who had earthly, literally taken from the earth, treasures that they had secretly gathered and safely put away were sharing their items with me. One by one the contents of their treasure boxes revealed similar items, such as miniature trees and rocks, safely protected, wrapped up carefully and tucked away. I'm not sure what that was about, and yet I felt very strongly that it was one of a series of messages or dreams/visions, I will be receiving in days to come. I pray God will give me clear understanding, as what He has shown me in the past has been very direct and has happened or may be happening in the future. Later, when I picked up one of my devotional books that I have been neglecting for a few days, I found that the title for today was "Bind the Prince of the Power of the Air." The text definitely fit what I was facing yesterday and today -  and every day for a very long time. The attack I have been going through is not just my carelessness in not safeguarding my health better, it was allowed for a reason, and slowly God is revealing things to me that I need to know and learn. Perhaps to prepare me for something ahead? 

Amir Tsarfati's devotional for today was entitled Peace in the Birth Pangs," which explained our fallen world and the effects Adam's sin had on all of creation. To quote Amir:

"We live in a time during which the travails of the earth are increasing in frequency and intensity in a labor-pain-like fashion. Earthquakes are increasing, weather phenomena are getting more intense, and plagues are sweeping the globe. It seems that as soon as one disaster subsides, another comes." 

Amir spoke of Jesus' warnings to His disciples in John 16:33: "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."  Every time something happens in the news, I am not surprised, and usually the first words from my mouth are the words of Jesus found in Matthew 24:37-39 when His disciples were asking Him about things to come and His return:

"But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be."

And so it goes. Our world is spiraling downwards, while the world and the church are continuing on with business as usual. It doesn't make sense to me, but I am trying to make a difference by what I do, say, and write. God said for me to write, and sometimes I wonder who really cares. But, the important thing is obedience to the word of God. Jesus did give us the command to go, but He also told us to occupy until He returns. Be involved. Don't sit idly by. And in the book of Revelation Jesus is speaking to the churches about what is expected. He has seen them, and they are found wanting. I do not want to be found wanting. I want to be actively fulfilling the purpose He has given me. Even if I have to give my life for His Name. Who will follow Christ's example?

Day 105 A Life in Christ

 

4/15/2026

 "A page of history is worth a volume of logic."

Daily Walk

 

The excitement of the morning for me was beginning to read 1 Chronicles 1-9 of the lineage of the David going back to Adam. Usually people groan when they get to the "begats," because they seem impossibly long, confusing, and boring. But they shouldn't be, if we consider that we may find our names listed inconspicuously within the names in history. As a challenge, the overview suggests the reader search for names we recognize, characters from the Old Testament writings that we remember the story, who we may consider the top five most important people, and why God felt it important that all these names be included in scripture. Seems like a pretty good game. 

I have always loved studying the lineage of Christ which dates all the back to the beginning also, as Mary's, the mother of Jesus, lineage went all the way back to Adam. The lineage of Jesus has even traced back through Joseph, his earthly father. In fact every human traces back to the beginning. Had Adam and Eve stayed on the up and up and obeyed God, we would be living in a perfect world, fruit trees and vegetables and all needs met, walking in the garden with God, and all of creation would be working in sync and not at a chaotic fury with one natural disaster after another. Think about that! 

As I read through scripture, and relive the lives of kings and kingdoms, I see the same return to the same sins, and even to this day man continues on the same spiral pathway downward leading to death and destruction. God provided for David a wonderful kingdom, and He promised that as long as his generations served Him and obeyed His commandments, one of David's family members would be seated on the throne. God called David the apple of His eye, and yet David failed God. He also repented quickly when he recognized his sin, and often it cost others, because the consequences of disobedience always affect others, even those who are innocent. 

I find it very interesting that David had many wives and concubines. Why did God allow that after He had said it was sinful? Then Solomon's first marriage, whom God entrusted with great wisdom, was to Pharaoh's daughter. Solomon had thousands of wives and concubines. He also purchased horses from Egypt, and clearly God said never to have any dealings with Egypt and not to buy horses from them. But it was Solomon's son, Rehoboam who caused the kingdom to be divided, ripped from David, with the exception of the tribe of Judah, because he was an evil king who did not follow in his father's footsteps when it came to obedience to God. There's so much I don't understand, but I see the same sins committed over and over again. But it doesn't hold a candle to the degradation that exists in our world today. We have fallen so far down that I wonder if we can be pulled back from the mire and stagnation of this age. And yet God in His great mercy is willing to pardon and save, because we all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. When God loves at us, we who have surrendered our wills to our Father, He only sees the righteous of Jesus Christ, the blood that ransomed our souls. We were all made in the image of God, but there is only one way to God and that is through the blood of Jesus.

Why must we make it so hard! 

Day 104 Yom HaShoah

 

4/14/2026

"As the mountains surround Jerusalem, 

so the LORD surrounds His people

from this time forth 

and forever."

Psalm 125:2

 

Today we remember, and today we repeat the words we repeat so often - "Never again!" Each year we remember the six million who lost their lives in the Holocaust, but we also remember those who survived and continue to live through the sirens that sound in Israel almost daily in some areas. In Haifa, located in the northern part of Israel on the coast, the International Christian Embassy Jerusalem (ICEJ), a ministry I call family, has a home for Holocaust survivors, a place where they have community and live a safe and closely knit life with family, living out the remainder of their years in Israel. Haifa House is only one ministry that supports these dearly beloved elders whom I hope one day to meet. The Jewish people have become so much more important to me, and my heart is broken, as is the heart of God, when I see the tremendous rise in antisemitism growing daily in our nation and in the nations of this world. If I live to be whatever age my LORD desires to keep me on this earth, I will never understand hatred. I didn't understand prejudice when I was a very young girl who was silenced more than once for asking the wrong questions. 

One of our team members, a couple who lives in Liverpool in the United Kingdom, stated that the authorities are now going door to door asking who supports Israel. If they are standing with Israel, then their names are entered into a book. The same is happening elsewhere in Europe as antisemitism and the lies are growing more each day from false media and hatred being spewed by those who hate the Jewish people and do not feel that Israel has a legitimate right to exist. Those professing to be Christians, and the churches who are labeled as such, are included in this group. How can anyone who holds a Bible in their hands daily believe such heresy and lies. From Genesis to Revelation the Bible states the story of the Jewish people. The Bible was written by the Jewish people, and thankfully they shared it with the world. We have so much to thank them for, yet we are blinded by the lies that can be dispelled if one just reads the Bible, praying that God will show them the truth that sets men free. In Genesis God called Abraham, then Abram, to leave his family, so that God could use him to create a nation that would be a blessing to all nations. Genesis 12:1-4 states:

"Now the LORD had said to Abram: 'Get out of your country, from your family and from your father's house, to a land that I will show you. I will make you a great nation; I will bless you and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and I will curse him who curses you; and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed.' So Abram departed as the LORD had spoken to him, and Lot went with him. And Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran." 

In verse 7 of Genesis 12 when Abram reached the land, God appears to Abram again: "Then the LORD appeared to Abram and said, 'To your descendants I will give this land.' And there he built an altar to the LORD, who had appeared to him." 

There is so much controversy going on now by once trusted men and women of God, one in particular who is hurting the cause of Christ in his criticism of Israel. This man is obviously under a demonic stronghold, but rather than be angry at him or at any other person, we who stand with Israel recognize that we are not dealing with flesh and blood, but with the principalities, powers, spiritual darkness of this age, and spiritual wickedness in high places. So we fight on our knees. I pray that the church will wake up from their slumber and stand with Israel, or they may suffer also.

This afternoon I attended a conference call with one of the ministries in Israel in the Bonhoeffer tradition. There was one lady on the call who has a ministry in America with whom I am acquainted, and she spoke about her personal search for her Judeo-Christian roots, and she found some troubling past sins in the family line that led her to repent on behalf of the dark past with regards to Israel. She challenged each of us to do the same. I am always bringing past sins up as Holy Spirit shines the light on my life, repenting on behalf of others, beginning first with myself, even though I was not involved. Still this is how it is done corporately. Unknown to this speaker or anyone, other than my son, I have already been searching a little deeper into my family history to find connections. What I have discovered has already cut me to the core, but I also am overjoyed with some things I have realized. It began with a friend becoming fascinated with the story of the Shroud of Turin, what is believed to be the burial cloths of Jesus. The evidence has been verified as truth over and over, even by those who initially hoped to prove others wrong. I love it when those who think they know something, find they know nothing. The Bible says as much when Paul the Apostle tells us that we see through a glass darkly. But what they found concerns me and my family personally, and I find it fascinating. I hope to connect with the speaker from yesterday's conference with my findings. 

I also happened upon another person's testimony, and I hope to listen to that as well. Who knows, perhaps whoever reads this post will discover that lurking in the shadows of your DNA lie secrets. Regardless of what I discover, I am not ashamed to say that I stand with Israel, and on this day I stand grieving the loss of all the lives during the Holocaust and the Warsaw Revolution and for the lives that have been lost during this ugly time since 10/7/2023. This hatred must end, and it must end now. Whether anyone likes it or not, Israel was established by God, and the Jewish people are His Chosen People. Gentiles who believe in Christ and live for Him have been granted the unique blessing of being grafted into the vine to partake of the blessings God spoke about to Abraham. But, in Romans 11 Paul clearly spells it out that if we do not live accordingly, we can be cut off. It is sobering indeed, so take a look at Romans, Chapters 9-11. Then thank God for His extreme mercy and grace. This is His will and His Word, and the gifts and callings of God are irrevocable.

So today, we honor you, and we pray for the salvation of the Jewish people, so that they will know the Savior of the world and that He is coming again! Shalom!

Day 103 What Matters Most

 

4/13/2026

 "All labels die when tested."

- Unknown

 

Yesterday I heard a pastor I respect speaking about the condition of the church, and while it is discouraging to watch what is happening, or not happening in our American churches, it was rather refreshing to see that someone is paying attention. Often I wonder if anyone is heeding the admonition of the LORD in the scriptures. I made a comment once about the original church, and how Jesus never said anything about denominations; He spoke of "the body." The pastor also commented, as have I, that Martin Luther and other early theologians would be appalled that a religion was named after them. I imagine many of the early theologians would be upset should they discover that religions or denomination originated from their teachings which have caused divisions in the body of Christ. When there are differences in schools of thought, personal beliefs or interpretations of scripture, a rift in the church develops, and a new church is birthed. The is not church planting. This is pride that goes before a fall. These are my thoughts, but apparently others have also considered it. It seems as if each one has an agenda that they follow, so if others don't believe as they do, a new movement is launched. The Bible should be the only authority on a matter, not personal feelings. Seems tiring having all these man made labels. This is why I call myself a follower of Christ, and my source is strictly the Bible, the word of God. Today I heard someone talking about the Ethiopian Bible being more accurate than the King James Version because it contains many of the parts left out for whatever reason they were not considered part of the original scriptures. I find it disturbing that there are so many Bibles with pastors' names on them. I understand that opinions and interpretations of texts are included, but it seems a bit presumptuous to me to use one's name as author of the Bible. This is my opinion.

I've been reading the book Tortured for Christ by Richard Wurmbrand, a Romanian priest who was imprisoned and tortured by the Communist Party for fourteen years. His testimony of forgiveness is amazing, as are those of the people he lists. It seems that the years of torture only served to make him love his tormentors all the more. How is that possible, one may ask? Well, the love of God can move hearts. If we understood the emptiness of the ones who are taught to hate those who embrace Christianity, who embrace Jesus, and who, no matter how much they are tortured, refuse to deny Christ, and show love and forgiveness to their tormentors, perhaps we can begin to understand God's love for all mankind. We can understand how He can change our hearts to those of love and compassion under the direst of circumstances towards those who persecute us. It is what Jesus modeled when He asked the Father to forgive them, because they did not know what they were doing. Only God can do that!

In his book Wurmbrand says that there are actually young Communists who have given their hearts to Jesus who continue to work as a Communists. One such report he provided reads:

"The Communist newspaper then described a 'savage' picture: "Young boys and girls sing spiritual hymns. They receive the ritual baptism and keep the evil, treacherous teaching of love toward the enemy." The article also stated that many young boys and girls who carry membership in the Communist Youth Organization are in reality Christians! It concluded with the words: 'How powerless must be the Community school, how boresome and deprived of light...that the pastors are able to snatch away its disciples from under the nose of their indifferent educators." 

Wurmbrand stated that: "The Communist newspapers bear witness to the fact that Christianity advanced among the youth!"

 I have mentioned the extreme hunger that the young people in America have, and because of their search for authenticity, for the truth of the Word, not "God gets you" messages that pat one on the back and never hold a sinner accountable for their sin. No, these young people, especially young men are running to churches that are alive in Christ, where they are learning, growing, transforming their lives, calling out for repentance and salvation. There are two churches right now where such revivals are ongoing. I can understand their need. I remain hungry for the Word of God. I  have an insatiable hunger, so I attend churches that teach the Bible, word by word, line by line, book by book. It is so wonderful to study this way, and apply it to what is happening today. The church needs to know how to explain what is happening today, on our streets, in our government, applying it to what God has said. It does not protect someone, because people need to know how to stand up for righteousness, for Jesus.

Wurmbrand had this to say about the Western church: "Whoever has known the spiritual beauty of the Underground Church cannot be satisfied anymore with the emptiness of some Western churches." Further he says, "I suffer in the West more than I suffered in a Communist jail because now I see with my  own eyes Western civilization dying."

I wept as I read his feelings about the modern church and their lack of concern about their fellow man who is being tortured, raped, viciously murdered for their faith, and the church does and says little. Such news is not reported, and if it is, it is sensationalized to benefit the one who writes it. There is little, if any true concern about martyrs, because the church has become dead to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the message that Jesus told the disciples to go and preach to all the world. Wurmwood says of the church: "The West sleeps and must be awakened to see the plight of captive nations." But it has become so much worse than that.

I have spoken about antisemitism until I am blue in the face! Some hang their Jewish flags, but that is the extent of their action! Who is speaking out against it?! I have actually made myself physically ill listening to Sunday sermons online to see who, if any, of the local pastors mention Israel or even understands what is happening now in Iran. The only reason some speak out is because they hate our President, so this is a great opportunity to see what lies they can fabricate to get him removed from office. The man does not ever get a moment's rest from criticism and lies! No one is perfect, but God placed him in office, and it is dangerous to oppose a Holy God. The truth about our Judeo-Christian roots is not taught in the church or in universities or seminaries. Replacement Theology has taken root in the heart of the church. No one seems to understand that Jesus is King of the Jews. He is in fact a Jew Himself! The church has been blinded, just as Saul of Tarsus was blinded until the scales dropped from His eyes by his encounter with the Living Christ! We need a fresh encounter with the Living Christ!

Right now in some American cities, Islam has become the religion. Soon America will become a land of underground churches. In fact, it is a semblance of one. Without the online community I would not have a church. Covid was responsible for the growth of the online communities, and they have continued and have grown even more since the epidemic. Why are people choosing to remain in these online churches and not seek out the face to face fellowship with others? For many I realize it is convenience or laziness, because they don't have to get dressed or leave the house. I hate it when I cannot get out and at least sit in the same room with believers, even when they don't fully understand. I ask my online group that question all the time, as I encourage church attendance and becoming involved in the fellowship and outreach. Yet, I don't feel that I have found a home yet, but until I do, I will attend one where the word is read in context, line by line, book by book.

One day, soon I hope, the Lord will return for the remnant of the church, His Body of Christ, the church. Will we be found with our oil lamps lit and our lives that of the spotless bride?