Day 4 Puzzles

1/4/2025

Puzzles drive me crazy! Especially ones with 1,000 pieces or more with three matching pieces for one spot, discovering none of them are the correct match! On Christmas Eve my son and I decided to ply our skill working on a Star Wars puzzle of R2D2 and 3CPO with 1,000 pieces. Although the outline has been shaped and some areas are coming together slowly, it has been a maddening experience. More than once my son has threatened to put it back in the box saying it is impossible and cannot be done! After much deliberation, I decided quitting was not an option. We could not allow a puzzle to get the better of us. No, the going may be slow, but we can figure it out. Although struggling to put it together has been a battle for the mind, not relaxing in any stretch of our imagination, still there must be a lesson to be learned from this self-inflicted torment, even if we can't see it.

In similar fashion our lives are like puzzle pieces, or a grand tapestry woven of many colors, fashioned skillfully into a masterpiece design. As we try to find our niche in the larger puzzle of life, we discover that we don't always "fit." Although my life has been a difficult one to piece together with all the ambiguous attempts to belong, to find my proper place, I have learned to rest confidently on the promises of God. 

Recently I began a study of the book of Hebrews, using Andrew Murray's book, The Holiest of All. This book has sat abandoned and unread on my bookshelf for many seasons, but God has been pressing me to pull it off the shelf and study it. Of course, any of Murray's books can be a perplexing to read and understand, plus this one is a very long read. It took me several nudges from God to get me going, as it was such an intimidating endeavor, or so I thought, but I'm finding that, like any project, it has to be done in the right time. Finally, I did as instructed, and the study has expanded my knowledge and opened my eyes to understanding in new ways. I am reading slowly, devouring every word. It is so rich in spiritual truth, and I can't imagine why I put it off for so long. While it is never my intention to ignore God's subtle nudges, I fail by busying myself with things that really can wait, or I get distracted with another task. But, I am finding that Abba is faithful to remind me at unlikely times, in the middle of prayer calls, or when I'm engaged in the daunting task of deleting 100 or more unsubscribed emails. I am grateful that He does not become weary with me.

There's so much I can say about this study of Hebrews, so I will save that for another time, or so I am hoping. We really never know when a day could be our last, so we have to savor the time. Maybe God is calling you to become involved in Bible study or join a church group. I am still hosting a weekly group online, and I find that the time of fellowship has been so special. It is a time of study and of fellowship, each lady at a different place in her spiritual walk. Each of us is a small piece of God's life puzzle, as He orchestrates the plan He has for us. Never despise the day of small beginnings.

Day 3 Mercy and Truth

 1/3/2025

My mind is wandering all over the place. It's already way past midnight, and I can't even think about sleep until I clear my head. Over the last year I have mentioned more than once that my eyes cannot unsee the horror of things too ghastly to conceive. Each night I post three or four photos of hostages being held by Hamas since October 7th of 2023, most we are told are deceased. The names and faces have become forever etched in my mind. Each time the hostage release deals seem hopeful, Hamas leaders change their minds. The psychological mind games begin by tormenting and threatening the family members using the hostages' cell phones, many with photos of carnage and last words. How can anyone be so cruel, and yet, these people, the ones who committed this unimaginable slaughter, were youngsters themselves who had been drugged to enhance the effect, as if the hatred instilled in them were not enough. Imagine growing up in homes where the first words you hear, then are taught daily, are words of violence and extreme hatred of people you have never met. My heart breaks...for all of it, for every one, for those who will be born to live and be daily indoctrinated in this demonic evil, made to watch horrific acts of torture. But as awful as this is, this happens in other countries all the time, and no one mentions it. 

From a very young age I wanted to serve as a missionary, and I read every missionary book in the church library as well as those in the elementary school library. On weekends my days were consumed with mental travels to the mission field. Often only the pleasant side of it is shared, not the heroic surrender of lives and, at times, leaving their children behind. I have been connected with missions ministries since my twenties. It began with Open Doors started by Brother Andrew, and since has expanded to others, Voice of the Martyrs, International Christian Concern, and many other ministries. When my younger son was searching for his spiritual roots, he became involved with a woman who embraced Islam. I remember taking him to my bulletin board showing him the faces of men imprisoned for their belief in Jesus. This broke my heart, but he didn't realize at the time the truth about this seemingly innocent group. The serpent has not lost his cunning in deceiving the weak and innocent. We must protect the innocence of our children and educate them honestly when they ask questions, when they are confused, and their is much to be concerned and confused about in this present age.

So many things are amiss today, things I would never expect to happen in my lifetime, and yet there is nothing new under the sun, as King Solomon once said. Evil has existed since the beginning, and it didn't seem to get any better after the flood in Noah's day. Here in America things have been beyond chaotic. Our nation, established on moral principles, seeks to remove God in every sphere of influence. If government had its way every church would be shut down, every Bible burned, and every person with a belief in God would be desensitized. Thankfully, God has heard the prayers of intercessors on their faces daily, repenting for the sins of our nation, our world, our churches' lack of action, beginning with personal sins. God, in His infinite grace, has chosen to extend His mercy, but, we, as believers, have much to do, as He calls us to persevere. The window of grace will be brief.

According to scripture, judgment begins in the house of the Lord, and the church's lack of action has hindered things. Leaders mistake government for politics, not interchangeable but separate as one is Biblical, the other carnal. It is so crucial that pastors and leaders understand the truth of the gospel message and instruct and guide their sheep regarding the Biblical role of the church. Praying and standing with Israel is the link to everything. 

My prayer is that eyes will be opened as we seek God's guidance, speaking to us clearly through His Word. May this be our focus for this new year, one filled with hope for our nation and an end to the antisemitism and barbarism in our countries.

Day 2 Friend of God

 

1/2/2025

The hour is late and another day has quickly turned the page. It seems no matter how early or late I go to bed I feel as if I left something undone. The early mornings are sweet hours spent listening, often crying for what I cannot visually see but sense in the spirit. 

A friend called me, and she was noticeably disturbed by something other than the mounting pressures in her life. If she watches the secular news she knows most of it is not based on fact, rather it is biased and self-serving. Still, she bemoans the day and hopes for the imminent return of Christ. This has become so prevalent in the lives of those who are tired of the struggles of the day, fearing what may come to pass, or just too tired to care. My friend has simply grown weary in doing the mundane, not being able to enjoy retirement, as many experience quite easily. Her idea of retirement is a day of rest without having to do anything unless she wants to, a day without someone needing assistance, without worrying about the slow demise of one she loves. Her struggles are real and daily faced. She admits that there are days she'd rather not get out of bed, but she knows that she has to. Just a few more minutes in a warm and cozy bed, she murmurs to herself, eventually rising to the task. I imagine many have experienced such feelings, but who have resisted the urging of the voices in the head saying "one day won't matter."  It is the way of things, sadly.

I must admit to sharing her feelings from time to time. It would be nice to snuggle into the warm, fleece sheets and sleep a little while longer. But, I don't think there has ever been a time where I surrendered to this reckless habit, even when I'm not feeling particularly fit. When I was working remotely from home I always had to get up, shower, get dressed, just in case someone might call, and I would need to go. I wouldn't allow myself to stay in my pajamas on the days I stayed in my office. No, I had to get up, take a shower, brush my teeth, and dress for the day. I have an older friend who manages to stay in his pajamas and robe the majority of the day, all the same inviting visitors to come on in and sit awhile. He is available to listen, pray, help as needed. He even walks a block to his mailbox to retrieve the mail without inhibition. Completely comfortable in who he is. I admire his courage and his resolve. Peter is a friend of God who is always willing to listen and pray when a friend is in need. He's always available, instant in season and out, as the word says. 

Abraham and Moses were both considered "friends of God." Sunday I recently a message about what it means to be a friend of God, and I have been chewing on the words. A story was told about a great man of God who had been hospitalized, yet not even his pastor had come by to visit and pray in agreement with him for healing. He asked his daughter, "Where are the friends of God," I want to get out of this bed and go  home!" By understanding how these words are used contextually in the Bible she knew that she needed to call someone whom her dad understood to be a man of prayer, someone who believed what the word says, so they could be in agreement, unwavering in faith. Someone who believed he could speak to a mountain, in faith, and it would be removed, because Jesus said it. His daughter did not have to labor long as she knew such a one. From across the oceans all the way in the continent of Africa he came, without hesitation, to minister to his friend. And, as it happened, the man of God was healed, and he walked out of the hospital, healed, to the unbelief and wonderment of his physician. A miracle. They are indeed available for the one who believes without wavering in their faith. God cannot but help when He hears the prayers of His saints calling out to Him. I believe that in the days to come, miracles will become more real to those who believe. It's only a matter of time when God releases His power as noted in Joel 2. I don't know about anyone else, but I am waiting and watching expectantly for that great and terrible day of the LORD. Miracles do happen today, faith does heal the sick. In God's time and His way. I am a walking testimony to His favor and mercy. I desire to be available to others when they call, my ears attentive to God's call. I don't want to miss it by being "too busy" to go, but to be attentive to His call.

Where are the friends of God?

   

Day 1 All to Jesus

  

1/1/2025

Another year has swept by, leaving unresolved projects at bay, while wondering what this new year may bring. It's certainly has been an unfolding adventure, but with very sad and disturbing events. It has also been a year of miracles, although many have not yet had the understanding to see it as such.

October marked the third anniversary of my return to Virginia after spending so many years tucked away in the mountains of Northern New Mexico where God began an amazing journey and an unexpected turnarounds in my life. Now as I continue on, new windows of opportunity have been opened to me, and although I do not understand where He is leading me, each day I awaken grateful for His trust, putting one step in front of the other, expectantly waiting to see what the day will bring.

This year will mark my quarter of a century of life, and I marvel at how quickly the years have passed. I see so many people younger than I who feel they have become old and useless. I admit that when I gaze into the mirror each day I am greeted by someone who still looks a little like me, but the image pales in comparison to photos in my high school yearbook! Still, although the chronological time clock is ticking at a much faster rate of speed than I might hope, I am still myself, and I will not jump on the senior band wagon or become a couch potato or bemoan the advancing of age and all it brings. There's more to God's plan for my life, and I have every intention of finishing the race set before me.

God has shined His favor brightly on the church, who finally understood the warnings and who stood for the return of righteousness to our nation. We have been given a brief window of opportunity to fulfill the mandates of our LORD and Savior and turn our nation back to God. This opportunity has been extended to His chosen leaders in government and in the church. May we heed the warning.

Each year I begin each year not by making a resolution, but rather, a re-dedication of my life in service to Abba and to others. My overall desire is to grow closer to Him and bring honor and glory to His Name. He alone is worthy. So, my year will be one of "surrender" to anything or anyone who takes His place or His time in my life. Wasted time spent, not on wrong pursuits, but ones that take up precious time sitting at His feet, listening to His words, and praying for others. 

I hope this year will be one of new beginnings for us all.

Shabbat Shalom

 

This is my favorite time of the week. Beginning at 6 pm I enter into the rest of Shabbat with my Jewish brothers and sisters and Gentiles, like me, who love the nation of Israel and observe God's appointed time. Growing up going to church on Sunday has always been a welcomed time of rest away from the cares of this world, putting aside works only to focus on the love of God and His Son, Jesus Christ. So now, as I have for many years, Saturday, the 7th day of creation when God rested from His work and was refreshed according to Genesis, is a day I also observe. 

Learning more about my Hebraic roots has given me a greater appreciation of gathering at appointed times, Moedim, as scripture teaches. When God created the heavens and the earth, and He saw that it was good, then He sat down and rested and was refreshed. Throughout scripture we are exhorted by God to observe the Sabbath Day and to keep it holy. Now this is not condemnation for those who worship on Sunday or any other day because of our upbringing and belief, or for those who have to work on this day. I am simply sharing scriptures, and what I am learning and applying to my life.

This period of time known as Teshuva, beginning this year on September 3rd, marks the 40 days before Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. This is the only time during the year when priests were allowed to enter into the Holy of Holies where the presence of God rested. To enter unworthily meant death, so before entering, the priest had to first make atonement for his sins. In fact a rope was tied to him just in case he had entered God's presence unclean, so that his body could be removed. God is a holy God who cannot be in the presence of sin. This makes me wonder if it ever happened, as scripture does not say, to my knowledge. Aaron's two sons, Nadab and Abihu, died for offering unholy fire, as mentioned in Leviticus 10:1-2. Another time when David was bringing the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem after it had been taken by the Philistines (2 Samuel 6:7), Uzzah was killed for attempting to steady the Ark when the oxen stumbled. God specified in Exodus 25:15 how the Ark was to be carried, and although Uzzah meant well and by impulse tried to steady the cart, he died for his disobedience. David had not consulted with God, and a high cost was paid. God is serious about His word, and although there are times in the scriptures when God seems harsh in His punishment,  but we must remember that God is a holy God. 

Teshuvah, as I noted previously, is a time of repentance and return, a time of examining our lives, repenting, and returning or aligning our lives to grow closer to God, to know Him better, to hear His voice, and truly know Him, abide with Him, which has been His desire since before creation. Repentance should be a regular part of our walk with the LORD, because we sin every day. Most of the time it is unintentional as in thinking bad thoughts, saying unkind words to another, putting everything else first rather than focusing on Him, or any of many ways we do not discern the presence of God and walk accordingly. Many find this lifestyle restrictive, but when you have been in the presence of our Living God, your life changes, and you understand the sweetness of abiding in Christ. 

Being part of this difficult time in the history of Israel, standing in prayer as one of many watchmen on the wall, called into service by God for Zion's sake, awaiting the return of our LORD, has been a privilege and a joy. It is deeply humbling knowing that apart from Christ, I am unworthy to approach a holy God, but because I accepted God's free gift of grace, I can stand in intercession on behalf of another. The cost of discipleship is extremely high, as many of us are finding out. Our CEO at ICEJ has been going through a painful time of physical healing, but I know that these times can be the best times to rest in His presence and listen to His voice. I believe when he returns he will be overflowing with fresh wisdom, manna from above, to share with all of us. As we surrender our lives in obedience to Christ, we can learn so much. Each day is a fresh word from the LORD, and I am awed by His glory.

So, as I enter into Shabbat in a few short hours, I want to sit at the feet of Jesus, listening intently, choosing the better thing, as Jesus shared with Martha regarding her sister Mary of Bethany when Mary chose to sit and listen, rather than rush around and "do." God calls us to "be." It is my prayer that this Shabbat during my time of rest that I am truly refreshed, as He promises. God never breaks His promises or His covenants. He longs to abide with all of us. My God, my joy! Take this time to put aside the weights that so easily outweigh us, and enter into the sweetness of knowing Him better and be refreshed.

 

 

Rosh Chodesh Elul

    

It's been a busy day, not particularly in actions, but in thoughts, cluttered with "to dos." So much happens so quickly that I find I am requiring more time just to process my thoughts. Too many distractions, not necessarily bad, but untimely. My focus needs to be turned to one thing. Like Mary of Bethany, I need to sit at the feet of Jesus, choosing to do the better thing. Only one thing that is necessary, Jesus told Martha, and He would not take it from her. Sitting at His feet, gazing intently into His face, soaking in every word. Worshiping.

Today, Tuesday, 9.3.2024 is the first day of the month of Elul on the Hebrew calendar (year 5784). It is a time of introspection, personal and corporate, leading up to the High Holy Day of Atonement, Yom Kippur, which is followed by the feast days, the most notably the Feast of Tabernacles. During this time we enter days of fasting and repentance, finding comfort in drawing close to the Lord, examining ourselves on every level. The month of Av that preceded was a time of mourning. As I write these words all of Israel mourns the past year of heart-wrenching horror and the helplessness many feel. There is no peace in the waiting, and for many the pain and insidious evil grows as the enemy taunts. Six precious souls executed as the enemy fled.

The events of October 7, 2023, changed everything. It's been such a difficult time for people waiting for the release of their loved ones, trying to find a sense of "normal" as daily the sirens are going off somewhere, many displaced from their homes because of the impending danger. Media has given the wrong impression of Israel and her response to this terror. It is without regard for the feelings of others or for the decisions that weigh so heavily on Prime Minister Netanyahu. Bearing false witness against a neighbor is something God hates. It seems much easier to pick up the chant of paid trouble-makers or ignorant naysayers than to seek truth and follow it. This includes the ones who profess to follow Jesus. For the most part the silence of the church has been deafening. A token prayer goes up for Israel, a brief comment to show sympathy without truly mourning or understanding, too busy to stand in support of our closest ally, a friend.

I'm weary, but it not in well doing. What frustrates me is waiting for the church to arise. The hour is late. I find it difficult to articulate what I am feeling. Years ago I asked God to break my heart for what broke His. I was newer to intercession in those days, but He heard my prayer, and He answered me. From that time forward He has led me to "see" more clearly and to listen for His direction in prayer. When I learn something new, I find that I hardly know anything at all. Praying His prayers are not for the weak kneed or faint of heart. This year alone has made me question so many things about myself. I've been privileged to attend daily prayer meetings with the International Christian Embassy in Jerusalem. Getting to know leaders who support Israel, many Gentile believers like myself, has been such a blessing. God told me He would set me, the solitary, in families, and He has. In October 2021 He instructed me to move back to Virginia after spending 35 years in Northern New Mexico. It has not been an easy move, and I have encountered more change than I thought. I have experienced much heartache over the loss of loved ones here and in New Mexico. Two strong supporters, one in each State, both died unexpectedly. It seems as if it is not permitted for me to get too close. I don't understand, but God does, so I follow, and I trust Him. It's all He wants, my obedience, my trust, and my love. Dwelling in His presence. The best place to be. The only place for me.

The hour is extremely late, and a new day has begun. Time for sleep, a time to dream.Shalom.

The Battle Belongs to the LORD - Part 1

 

 It is not uncommon for me to wake up with a song in my heart. For the past two days, once I opened my eyes, my gaze toward heaven, I sang the words "the LORD God is a strong tower; the righteous run into it, and they are safe. The LORD God is a strong tower; the righteous run into it, and they are safe." On our prayer call this morning, day 251 of the war in Israel, the worship leader spoke these same words from the scripture on which this song is based (Proverbs 18:10). This brought so much joy to my soul! Adonai often provides such confirmations to what He is showing me or speaking to me through His word and dear brothers and sisters in Christ, and in this instance, through worship. This dear one was leading worship from Fiji in the wee hours of the morning. Such dedication to the LORD is obvious for all who have remained constant on these important calls. My cup runs over.

As we discussed the situation in Israel and surrounding countries ruled or greatly influenced by evil, more and more I saw clearly the battle being waged in the heavens. In prayer and intercession, combined with fasting, God responds with His counsel, wisdom, and might. As we were praying, I remembered things in my life and the lives of others that have been overcome or are in the process. More than ever, no matter what the situation, we cannot lower our shields. This battle is the LORD's and He fights for us, yet as in 2 Chronicles 20, He expects us to suit up and be present, sometimes to engage with Him, but other times, to watch Him do what only HE can do. So many times we feel that "we" have done something. Well, if you are one of those who is of that persuasion, kindly open your eyes and look at the mess in our present age all over the world. Leaders thought they could "help" God, and just like with Abraham and Sarah, God has His timing, and His ways which are perfect. Had Abraham and Sarah waited, perhaps we would not be in such a mess in Israel today. Only God knows. And that is the key, God has known our every move since BEFORE He created the world, and YET, He still created man. Why? Because He wanted fellowship with us. That is a huge mystery to me. God is the three in one, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He is complete in Himself, but He wanted relationship with us. Go figure?! One thing I do know, when all is said and done, the message will be, "the LORD did it!"

Scripture says, God's ways are higher (Isaiah 55:8-9), but He has a plan for each of us to give us a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11). The Word of God is full of promises, and whatever He promises, He does. This can be traced through all the scriptures. Today, we were encouraged not to grow weary in our prayers, especially when we do not see the fruit of the labor being manifested in real time. Hostages are still being held and tortured, used as pawns, the war continues, people are dying, and rulers are playing games when they should be consulting the LORD. Regardless, of what is not being said and results not happening, He is in control. Sometimes I wish God would open the eyes of His people all over this world whose faces are set in faithful intercession day and night, so they could see His glory. In 2 Kings 6:17-20, the prophet Elisha asked God to open his servant's eyes to see that although the enemy surrounded them in great numbers, Heaven's Army was greater. I know the vision of this army, and it is indeed vast. I wish that all could see how great is our God who fights for us, and our Savior, who sits in heaven beside the right side of God, where He continuously makes intercession for us (Ephesians 1 & 2;  Romans 8:34). The verses in Ephesians describes our position in Christ and in prayer in the heavenly place. The book of Ephesians is a great study of spiritual warfare and living the righteous lifestyle, and I recommend it be read as a reminder of God's great work and power through us as believers. If you have never read the entire Bible through, you should. Trust me, you'd be greatly encouraged, plus you'd see today's events playing out prophetically in real time. Study to show yourself approved.

I'm trying to keep this shorter today, but my hope is to do what God told me to do some years ago and speak out. If you are sincerely desirous of a personal and close relationship with Our Father, I hope encouragement has been received.

Shalom.