9 days into 2009.
Don't worry, I’m NOT going to ask you how you’re doing with your resolutions. Let’s just say, it's exciting to start new things, and tough to continue. Often enthusiasm wanes as progress plateaus and resolve weakens.
Starting is fun....Continuing is hard. Wouldn't you agree?
Getting a new filing system together is gratifying. Continuing to put papers away at the end of each day gets progressively harder. The spirit is willing, but, heavens to Mergatroid, the flesh is so weak! When we get busy, tired, and cranky we just want to let ourselves off the hook, don’t we?
Do you have a friend who is a continue-er, someone who goes the distance without complaint? I know of one... a Hero of mine actually…
The Apostle Paul, an amazing continue-er.
Paul knew that he had received an urgent God-given calling; yet he spent a lot of time W A I T I N G, in cold, dank prison cells. Still, we never see him fretting or plotting an elaborate escape. Instead of questioning God, he was obedient and bloomed where ever God chose to plant Him. Paul wrote letters and much of what he wrote became part of The New Testament. Even now, almost 2000 years later, eyes are opened and minds renewed because of Paul's pen.
God made eternal use of Paul's "apparent downtimes."
By nature, Paul was a do-er, not a wait-er. In his youth, he was a prominent Pharisee, a relentless over-achiever ... especially when it came to hunting down Christians. But, a face-to-face meeting with the Risen Christ changed all that. He put his own will aside and became a slave to God’s Will. He determined to do only what God directed Him to do… nothing else. After his conversion, Paul spent the rest of his life pouring himself out like a drink offering, on God's altar, pouring the love and knowledge of Christ out into the then-known world.
Paul looked UP, not around. He continued to fight the good fight till he took his last breath. Lord, make us like Paul, teach us to trust You... even when we don't know what You are doing. Bring glory to Your Name, by teaching us to walk in faith with You. Bring strength and stamina to our Christian walk in 2009.
This year, continue to grow us in the things that matter to YOU.
Conform us and CONTINUE to work Your Good Will in us.
1/9/09
1/7/09
LOOKING UP
Wow, I just saw something when I looked at yesterday's blog:
When the focus was centered on me... my thoughts, and all the uncertain circumstances of this New Year... a deafening cry of doom shouted off the page. As I re-read the first part of it just now, I could feel my heart racing and doubt creeping in again, yiikes.
Also, just noticed that in the first half of yesterday's blog, most of the sentences start with "I" and explore my stuff, the current "realities" of my life. Nothing I wrote is exaggerated, untrue, or embellished; I am broke and unemployed. But, obviously this is not where my thoughts need to anchor. I want to keep my eyes focused on God and my feet grounded in His Promises ... not my fleeting feelings or a swirling set of "what ifs." He will direct my path. And knowing that He is a God who does what He says He will do restores peace to my soul.
Things started looking up, as soon as, I started looking up!
I wound up having an amazing day yesterday. As I began writing down what I know to be TRUE about God, He lifted me up and I mean that literally a heaviness left my spirit. He rescued me from the quicksand of my negative thoughts. He even allowed me to be an encouragement in someone else's life yesterday. Amazing!
When my focus shifted from putting 'poor me' first, to putting powerful GOD FIRST, everything changed!
O, circumstances may remain the same, but minds focused on Jesus cannot stay the same. Thoughts of His Character, His Loving-kindness, all that He has done... this brings back the joy of living...living in the light of His Promises, that's where real life is found.
Reading Romans 8 yesterday transformed my thinking. I read and re-read and asked God to speak and strengthen me through the Truth of His Word. The Word of God is powerful it is life-changing. It does not return void, He promised.
What am I talking about here?
Well, it is NOT the power of positive thinking, or some New Age philosophy. It is NOT something that you can work up or drink down. It is the power of The Holy Spirit, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead, alive and active, at work inside believers!
Why do we keep forgetting that we have this gift inside of us?
Why don't we always live like this is True?
Why are we so lukewarm and "reality" focused?
Wake us UP, Lord, make Romans 8:11 our true reality:
"And if The Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit, who lives in you!"
When I think of who I am, let my first thought be that I am Yours and Your Spirit lives in me! (not that I am unemployed or financially struggling or older or less energetic, all that is temporal) Keep me focused on Your Eternal Truths. Where am I headed with You? How are You changing me, teaching me, expanding the part of me that will be with You forever?
Keep us looking UP, ever-expecting YOU to break in and perform a miracle. Teach us to watch, wait, LOOK FOR YOUR HAND in all things. Teach us to walk by faith in the light of Your Love. That is my heart's desire.
"I will walk by faith, not by sight, 'cause I can't see straight in the broad daylight.
I will walk by faith, not be fear, 'cause I believe in The One who brought me here."
When the focus was centered on me... my thoughts, and all the uncertain circumstances of this New Year... a deafening cry of doom shouted off the page. As I re-read the first part of it just now, I could feel my heart racing and doubt creeping in again, yiikes.
Also, just noticed that in the first half of yesterday's blog, most of the sentences start with "I" and explore my stuff, the current "realities" of my life. Nothing I wrote is exaggerated, untrue, or embellished; I am broke and unemployed. But, obviously this is not where my thoughts need to anchor. I want to keep my eyes focused on God and my feet grounded in His Promises ... not my fleeting feelings or a swirling set of "what ifs." He will direct my path. And knowing that He is a God who does what He says He will do restores peace to my soul.
Things started looking up, as soon as, I started looking up!
I wound up having an amazing day yesterday. As I began writing down what I know to be TRUE about God, He lifted me up and I mean that literally a heaviness left my spirit. He rescued me from the quicksand of my negative thoughts. He even allowed me to be an encouragement in someone else's life yesterday. Amazing!
When my focus shifted from putting 'poor me' first, to putting powerful GOD FIRST, everything changed!
O, circumstances may remain the same, but minds focused on Jesus cannot stay the same. Thoughts of His Character, His Loving-kindness, all that He has done... this brings back the joy of living...living in the light of His Promises, that's where real life is found.
Reading Romans 8 yesterday transformed my thinking. I read and re-read and asked God to speak and strengthen me through the Truth of His Word. The Word of God is powerful it is life-changing. It does not return void, He promised.
What am I talking about here?
Well, it is NOT the power of positive thinking, or some New Age philosophy. It is NOT something that you can work up or drink down. It is the power of The Holy Spirit, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead, alive and active, at work inside believers!
Why do we keep forgetting that we have this gift inside of us?
Why don't we always live like this is True?
Why are we so lukewarm and "reality" focused?
Wake us UP, Lord, make Romans 8:11 our true reality:
"And if The Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit, who lives in you!"
When I think of who I am, let my first thought be that I am Yours and Your Spirit lives in me! (not that I am unemployed or financially struggling or older or less energetic, all that is temporal) Keep me focused on Your Eternal Truths. Where am I headed with You? How are You changing me, teaching me, expanding the part of me that will be with You forever?
Keep us looking UP, ever-expecting YOU to break in and perform a miracle. Teach us to watch, wait, LOOK FOR YOUR HAND in all things. Teach us to walk by faith in the light of Your Love. That is my heart's desire.
"I will walk by faith, not by sight, 'cause I can't see straight in the broad daylight.
I will walk by faith, not be fear, 'cause I believe in The One who brought me here."
1/6/09
Still Waiting
So, here we are in the 1st productive “work week” of a New Year.
But, HELLO, reality check: I am NOT working.
And, the thought of finding a new place in the world brings on a cold sweat. I need to move forward, find a job; but, today fear has a grip on my feet and it won't release them.
I try to visualize myself working in an office again....fluorescent lights overhead and beige padded cubicles all around...is that one mine? 12 spaces down & 2 rows over? Or, maybe I'll be setting out in my car to make sales calls again. I try to imagine driving some where, but all I see is a black hole. Maybe I'll win the lottery and never have to work again... unlikely, I do not play the lottery!
No, Stop fantasizing and procrastinating. Get a Grip! Prayerfully send 5 resumes before you do anything else. Trust God with your whole heart; don't lean on your own mind. I used to love that verse; but, this year I'm finding it's much harder to do it, than to memorize it.
(Trust me on this...blind trust, walking by faith...I get it; but some days its just plain 'hard' to live it!)
I don't have a clue how 2009 will unfold and what will come into my life... and flow out of it.
But, I DO KNOW that God knows. He knows it all, no worries.
And, I DO TRUST Him... But, Lord... Help me trust You MORE!
Come on now, take stock, you're ok, still in good shape, "sharp, clean, all the original parts still in working order" (even though I am past the 50K-mileage warranty!) There are newer, edgy-er models out there and they will be competing for the same employer attention. Bring me Your Wisdom, Lord. They have I-phones, wii's, and flat stomachs. They can kick my butt at Guitar Hero, and text faster than I can think...but I know You, and You help me. I don't have to be afraid. You make well-worn paths straight.
Lord, I don't have to tell You how I vacillate between thinking that I am a wise highly-skilled woman and a split-second later thinking that I am a compleeete loooser. You already know all about me.
But, I will sit with You and tell You anyway, because Your Word says that You want me to (and because it helps so much to know, that I'm known by You.) This season of waiting will pass. You will put me where You want me, if I stay yielded to You. That’s really all I want too. Keep me in Your Will, I don't seem to know anything... anymore.
Wait, that's not true, I do still know a few things:
~When I am still, and I wait, and quiet my racing mind, I do know...
God is real
~I know for sure that God holds me in the palm of His Hand
God is peace
~I know for sure I can look back and see God has never let me down
God is faithful
~I know beyond a shadow of a doubt, I can rest in His Promises.
God is truth
~I know He definitely has a plan for my life; He has not forgotten me;
God is present
~I know that Jesus died for me and lives to intercede for me
God is LOVE beyond all comprehension
God, You said that You would never leave us or forsake us.
God, You are my very present help, guide my thoughts.
God, You are a Loving, Faithful, Miracle-working God.
God, You are the Architect, You hold the blueprint of my life.
God, You know me better than I know myself.
God, You are my Hope. I surrender to YOU.
Teach me to walk by faith!
God's Word is a Lifeline for those who WAIT:
“Meanwhile the moment we get tired in the waiting,
God’s Spirit is right alongside, helping us along.
If we don’t know how or what to pray, it doesn't matter.
He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of wordless sighs…
He knows us far better than we know ourselves…
That’s why we can BE SURE that EVERY DETAIL IN OUR LIVES
of love for God, is worked into something good.”
Romans 8:26-28, from The Message
But, HELLO, reality check: I am NOT working.
And, the thought of finding a new place in the world brings on a cold sweat. I need to move forward, find a job; but, today fear has a grip on my feet and it won't release them.
I try to visualize myself working in an office again....fluorescent lights overhead and beige padded cubicles all around...is that one mine? 12 spaces down & 2 rows over? Or, maybe I'll be setting out in my car to make sales calls again. I try to imagine driving some where, but all I see is a black hole. Maybe I'll win the lottery and never have to work again... unlikely, I do not play the lottery!
No, Stop fantasizing and procrastinating. Get a Grip! Prayerfully send 5 resumes before you do anything else. Trust God with your whole heart; don't lean on your own mind. I used to love that verse; but, this year I'm finding it's much harder to do it, than to memorize it.
(Trust me on this...blind trust, walking by faith...I get it; but some days its just plain 'hard' to live it!)
I don't have a clue how 2009 will unfold and what will come into my life... and flow out of it.
But, I DO KNOW that God knows. He knows it all, no worries.
And, I DO TRUST Him... But, Lord... Help me trust You MORE!
Come on now, take stock, you're ok, still in good shape, "sharp, clean, all the original parts still in working order" (even though I am past the 50K-mileage warranty!) There are newer, edgy-er models out there and they will be competing for the same employer attention. Bring me Your Wisdom, Lord. They have I-phones, wii's, and flat stomachs. They can kick my butt at Guitar Hero, and text faster than I can think...but I know You, and You help me. I don't have to be afraid. You make well-worn paths straight.
Lord, I don't have to tell You how I vacillate between thinking that I am a wise highly-skilled woman and a split-second later thinking that I am a compleeete loooser. You already know all about me.
But, I will sit with You and tell You anyway, because Your Word says that You want me to (and because it helps so much to know, that I'm known by You.) This season of waiting will pass. You will put me where You want me, if I stay yielded to You. That’s really all I want too. Keep me in Your Will, I don't seem to know anything... anymore.
Wait, that's not true, I do still know a few things:
~When I am still, and I wait, and quiet my racing mind, I do know...
God is real
~I know for sure that God holds me in the palm of His Hand
God is peace
~I know for sure I can look back and see God has never let me down
God is faithful
~I know beyond a shadow of a doubt, I can rest in His Promises.
God is truth
~I know He definitely has a plan for my life; He has not forgotten me;
God is present
~I know that Jesus died for me and lives to intercede for me
God is LOVE beyond all comprehension
God, You said that You would never leave us or forsake us.
God, You are my very present help, guide my thoughts.
God, You are a Loving, Faithful, Miracle-working God.
God, You are the Architect, You hold the blueprint of my life.
God, You know me better than I know myself.
God, You are my Hope. I surrender to YOU.
Teach me to walk by faith!
God's Word is a Lifeline for those who WAIT:
“Meanwhile the moment we get tired in the waiting,
God’s Spirit is right alongside, helping us along.
If we don’t know how or what to pray, it doesn't matter.
He does our praying in and for us, making prayer out of wordless sighs…
He knows us far better than we know ourselves…
That’s why we can BE SURE that EVERY DETAIL IN OUR LIVES
of love for God, is worked into something good.”
Romans 8:26-28, from The Message
1/5/09
Pride Before The Fall
It's Monday morning, Day 5 of a Brand-New Year... So far, so good.
The Christmas decorations came down yesterday; then, moved up to the attic for an 11-month hibernation, ahhh. I love my Christmas stuff, but it feels wonderful to have it all perfectly packed away and put to bed. Early this morning, I sat on the living room sofa, with a mug of hot coffee and thought, “Wow, the house looks good! I am going to stay organized, that’s my #1 resolution! And it won’t even be difficult, because I have a plan and I’m stickin' with it. I can do this, oh yes, I CAN."
I glanced out the front window and pridefully noted that many neighbors still had Christmas lights up. Not me, I thought smugly, my new middle initial is “O” for “Organized-woman!” Then, I swung open the front door to get the newspaper and, to my horror, I saw … my Christmas wreath… attached to the flip side of the door. Oh well, just 1 oversight, no big deal.
I went to the kitchen to try to find a working pen so I could make a master list of things to do around the house. When I opened the junk drawer I saw another appalling sight... the missing green, sparkly jumbo roll of Christmas ribbon. Well, that was sure a dumb “safe-keeping place.” I remembered putting it in there for “easy accessibility” and then I guess I forgot where I put it. Well, no more of that! This year I am going to have assigned seating for everything, no random junk, just one logical, alphabetical-ordered, happy home. Yikes, where did I put the scotch tape? Oh no, I may have packed it away with the Christmas wrapping paper?
Wait! Cancel those negative thoughts and stop eyeballing those stale Christmas cookies! Throw those Christmas carbs away right now! O.k., phew, deep breaths, back in control. I decide to have a healthy hard-boiled egg instead. I will NOT use food for comfort in 2009. I am a grown-up person now, making grown-up choices. Yikes, the egg I proceed to crack, turns out not to be hard-boiled. Suddenly, gooey yellow yolk spreads out across the floor. That’s o.k., no problem-o, just whistle while you work, and clean it up. As I open the drawer, the hand towels with the furry reindeer faces smile back... mocking me….something else I forgot to pack up! I'm tempted to just throw them in the trash can.
I decide to stack all the Christmas stragglers in the corner of the room, after all, I may come across more. So much for a “place for everything, everything in its place!” What is the matter with me, for heaven's sake? YES, for heaven's sake, what are you doing girlfriend?
STOP RIGHT NOW AND PRAY! WHY ARE YOU RESISTING? ASK GOD FOR HELP, YOU OBVIOUSLY NEED IT!
Immediately, the thought I can do ALL THINGS through Christ who strengthens me comes to mind. Christ offers me supernatural help for all things, (even forgotten Christmas decorations.) I think this is what Jesus really wants me to learn this year. I laugh as I see the pile of Christmas orphans amassed in the corner, what a visual! As I open God's Word, 1 Thessalonians speaks to my heart: 5:16 “Be joyful always; 17 Pray continually; 18 Give thanks in ALL circumstances, for this is God’s Will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Jesus, Thank you for this disastrous morning. I confess both my pride and my insecurity.
I also confess to coveting my neighbor Sue Fitz's organizational abilities and my neighbor Maureen's dedication to working out. Let this be the year that I call on Your Name for everything. Help me become the person You designed me to be. Restore my JOY and make me a PRAYING, THANKS-in-all-things, person. How foolish of me to think that I'll keep resolutions that are not rooted in You.
My 2009 Resolution? I resolve to want nothing but Your Will for me, whatever that may be, re-mind me again and again. All things through You, nothing good apart from You. Amen
The Christmas decorations came down yesterday; then, moved up to the attic for an 11-month hibernation, ahhh. I love my Christmas stuff, but it feels wonderful to have it all perfectly packed away and put to bed. Early this morning, I sat on the living room sofa, with a mug of hot coffee and thought, “Wow, the house looks good! I am going to stay organized, that’s my #1 resolution! And it won’t even be difficult, because I have a plan and I’m stickin' with it. I can do this, oh yes, I CAN."
I glanced out the front window and pridefully noted that many neighbors still had Christmas lights up. Not me, I thought smugly, my new middle initial is “O” for “Organized-woman!” Then, I swung open the front door to get the newspaper and, to my horror, I saw … my Christmas wreath… attached to the flip side of the door. Oh well, just 1 oversight, no big deal.
I went to the kitchen to try to find a working pen so I could make a master list of things to do around the house. When I opened the junk drawer I saw another appalling sight... the missing green, sparkly jumbo roll of Christmas ribbon. Well, that was sure a dumb “safe-keeping place.” I remembered putting it in there for “easy accessibility” and then I guess I forgot where I put it. Well, no more of that! This year I am going to have assigned seating for everything, no random junk, just one logical, alphabetical-ordered, happy home. Yikes, where did I put the scotch tape? Oh no, I may have packed it away with the Christmas wrapping paper?
Wait! Cancel those negative thoughts and stop eyeballing those stale Christmas cookies! Throw those Christmas carbs away right now! O.k., phew, deep breaths, back in control. I decide to have a healthy hard-boiled egg instead. I will NOT use food for comfort in 2009. I am a grown-up person now, making grown-up choices. Yikes, the egg I proceed to crack, turns out not to be hard-boiled. Suddenly, gooey yellow yolk spreads out across the floor. That’s o.k., no problem-o, just whistle while you work, and clean it up. As I open the drawer, the hand towels with the furry reindeer faces smile back... mocking me….something else I forgot to pack up! I'm tempted to just throw them in the trash can.
I decide to stack all the Christmas stragglers in the corner of the room, after all, I may come across more. So much for a “place for everything, everything in its place!” What is the matter with me, for heaven's sake? YES, for heaven's sake, what are you doing girlfriend?
STOP RIGHT NOW AND PRAY! WHY ARE YOU RESISTING? ASK GOD FOR HELP, YOU OBVIOUSLY NEED IT!
Immediately, the thought I can do ALL THINGS through Christ who strengthens me comes to mind. Christ offers me supernatural help for all things, (even forgotten Christmas decorations.) I think this is what Jesus really wants me to learn this year. I laugh as I see the pile of Christmas orphans amassed in the corner, what a visual! As I open God's Word, 1 Thessalonians speaks to my heart: 5:16 “Be joyful always; 17 Pray continually; 18 Give thanks in ALL circumstances, for this is God’s Will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Jesus, Thank you for this disastrous morning. I confess both my pride and my insecurity.
I also confess to coveting my neighbor Sue Fitz's organizational abilities and my neighbor Maureen's dedication to working out. Let this be the year that I call on Your Name for everything. Help me become the person You designed me to be. Restore my JOY and make me a PRAYING, THANKS-in-all-things, person. How foolish of me to think that I'll keep resolutions that are not rooted in You.
My 2009 Resolution? I resolve to want nothing but Your Will for me, whatever that may be, re-mind me again and again. All things through You, nothing good apart from You. Amen
12/18/08
Heaven On Earth
Unto us a child is born, Unto to us a son is given,
and the government will be on His shoulders.
He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace Isaiah 9:6
A Child who is also The Wonderful Counselor;
A Son who is also Our Mighty, Everlasting God;
A Savior, who told us not to worry about our world; ultimately
all government rests on The Shoulders of The Prince of Peace.
There are 2 realms at work on Planet Earth...one seen, one unseen.
Some choose to believe only in what we can be measured and quantified. Some intellectuals and visionaries tell us to ‘think outside the box;' yet, their minds won't open to the possibility of an unseen God, Sovereign over us. Creation declares that there is a Supernatural Hand at work; but God chose to do more than create the intricate beauty that surrounds us and speaks His Name.... He chose to make Himself visible. Heaven came to Earth. God, in flesh and blood, through Jesus.
It is hard for the human mind to imagine how God's Son could leave the royal robes of heaven behind to come to us as a helpless baby, who needed to have his diapers changed and felt hunger, cold… and rejection. It is a blessed mystery, but deep in our souls we know that it is TRUE. Jesus coming to Earth as a baby, was Heaven’s Way...the Way of Love, Humility, and Service. How hard it is for us to love without condition; to lay down our pride, and to refrain from justifying our every action! Jesus was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and the Perfect Lamb of God, did not open his mouth to defend Himself…. Every moment of His Earthly Life, had already proven who He was. He fulfilled every prophesy; then willingly, Our Good Shepherd, laid down His LIfe for His Sheep.
Take the time to read what He said; study His Words in the Gospels and He will unveil Himself to you. If you desperately seek Him, He will show you Who He Is.
How wonderful it is to be a "BELIEVER" at Christmastime!
The story of Santa Claus delivering presents and The Grinch returning presents; flying reindeer and toy-making elves are sweet images, ingrained in our Christmas culture now. But, Lord restore to us the REASON FOR THIS SEASON, help us to BELIEVE IN YOU, and trust You more, as we think about all that You left behind when You came here to save us. This is the truly wonder-filled story. Let the true story of Your coming to Earth as a tiny baby, sink into our souls and fill us with AWE.
Lord, this world is not our home, just as it was not Yours; but while we are here, make us worthy of the upward calling to press on in Your Name, The Name above all Names: Baby Jesus, Teacher Jesus, Sacrificial Lamb Jesus, Savior Jesus, Risen Jesus, Intercessor Jesus, in all things The Lord Jesus Christ. Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, Good Shepherd, Ruler of all that is seen & unseen.
Unto us 'An Indescribable Gift' was given,
A Savior who brought Heaven to Earth.
O come let us adore Him, Christ The King!
and the government will be on His shoulders.
He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace Isaiah 9:6
A Child who is also The Wonderful Counselor;
A Son who is also Our Mighty, Everlasting God;
A Savior, who told us not to worry about our world; ultimately
all government rests on The Shoulders of The Prince of Peace.
There are 2 realms at work on Planet Earth...one seen, one unseen.
Some choose to believe only in what we can be measured and quantified. Some intellectuals and visionaries tell us to ‘think outside the box;' yet, their minds won't open to the possibility of an unseen God, Sovereign over us. Creation declares that there is a Supernatural Hand at work; but God chose to do more than create the intricate beauty that surrounds us and speaks His Name.... He chose to make Himself visible. Heaven came to Earth. God, in flesh and blood, through Jesus.
It is hard for the human mind to imagine how God's Son could leave the royal robes of heaven behind to come to us as a helpless baby, who needed to have his diapers changed and felt hunger, cold… and rejection. It is a blessed mystery, but deep in our souls we know that it is TRUE. Jesus coming to Earth as a baby, was Heaven’s Way...the Way of Love, Humility, and Service. How hard it is for us to love without condition; to lay down our pride, and to refrain from justifying our every action! Jesus was led as a lamb to the slaughter, and the Perfect Lamb of God, did not open his mouth to defend Himself…. Every moment of His Earthly Life, had already proven who He was. He fulfilled every prophesy; then willingly, Our Good Shepherd, laid down His LIfe for His Sheep.
Take the time to read what He said; study His Words in the Gospels and He will unveil Himself to you. If you desperately seek Him, He will show you Who He Is.
How wonderful it is to be a "BELIEVER" at Christmastime!
The story of Santa Claus delivering presents and The Grinch returning presents; flying reindeer and toy-making elves are sweet images, ingrained in our Christmas culture now. But, Lord restore to us the REASON FOR THIS SEASON, help us to BELIEVE IN YOU, and trust You more, as we think about all that You left behind when You came here to save us. This is the truly wonder-filled story. Let the true story of Your coming to Earth as a tiny baby, sink into our souls and fill us with AWE.
Lord, this world is not our home, just as it was not Yours; but while we are here, make us worthy of the upward calling to press on in Your Name, The Name above all Names: Baby Jesus, Teacher Jesus, Sacrificial Lamb Jesus, Savior Jesus, Risen Jesus, Intercessor Jesus, in all things The Lord Jesus Christ. Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, Good Shepherd, Ruler of all that is seen & unseen.
Unto us 'An Indescribable Gift' was given,
A Savior who brought Heaven to Earth.
O come let us adore Him, Christ The King!
12/15/08
Pressing Onward & Upward
But ONE THING I do:
Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,
I PRESS ON toward the GOAL to win the prize for which God has
called me UPWARD, toward Heaven, in Christ Jesus. Phil 3:13b, 14
In my last blog I wrote about “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” and I received some interesting feedback. Apparently, some people think that The Grinch is symbolic of The Devil… I don’t think so. I think The Grinch is symbolic of US, human beings whose small, selfish, coveting hearts can grow BIG, transformed by the love of God.
I think the central theme of The Grinch Story is REPENTENCE.
The Bible tells us that we are all sinners, ALL have fallen short of God’s Glory (Rom 3:34) but, we have been given a Savior, One who stood in for us, took our punishment for sin, and redeemed us (see Gal 3:13-14) And, He has left His Spirit here to fill the hearts of men; if, by faith, we open the free gift of grace that he presents to us (see Rom 5:5)
We can turn from self-centered living and press onward and upward toward Jesus. This is the choice, THE ONE THING, that defines each person’s destiny.
In the story of The Grinch, he literally turns his sleigh around as he sees the townspeople join hands and begin singing….despite the fact that all their stuff has been stolen! Their actions are so topsy-turvy to what he'd anticipated…. he stands awestruck for a moment. Then, he makes a decision to ditch the way he has been living, and go after what they apparently have found: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. These gifts cannot be mustered up, they come into our hearts by the power of God's Holy Spirit, when we agree with Him that He is God and we are not; and that we need HIM.
The Grinch is like The Prodigal Son who thought he wanted the world, but almost lost his soul in the process. In the end, he repents, re-turns home, seeks and receives acceptance. A great feast is held and repentant thieves (Prodigals & Grinches), become the guests of honor. I believe that great celebrations are held in heaven as well, when people find their way back to God.
I decided to ‘Google’ Dr. Seuss, and see what his intention was, with his character of The Grinch, please enjoy the wisdom of Theodor 'Seuss' Geisel:
"Despite the widespread appeal of the Grinch Story, not everyone was pleased. Dr. Seuss once received a letter from brothers David and Bob Grinch of Ridgefield, N.J., asking if he would change the Grinch's name. Friends were teasing them mercilessly.
Seuss responded, "I disagree with your friends who 'harass' you. Can't they understand that the Grinch is the HERO of Christmas? Sure... he starts out as a villain, but it's not how you start out that counts. It's what you are at the finish!"
Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,
I PRESS ON toward the GOAL to win the prize for which God has
called me UPWARD, toward Heaven, in Christ Jesus. Phil 3:13b, 14
In my last blog I wrote about “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” and I received some interesting feedback. Apparently, some people think that The Grinch is symbolic of The Devil… I don’t think so. I think The Grinch is symbolic of US, human beings whose small, selfish, coveting hearts can grow BIG, transformed by the love of God.
I think the central theme of The Grinch Story is REPENTENCE.
The Bible tells us that we are all sinners, ALL have fallen short of God’s Glory (Rom 3:34) but, we have been given a Savior, One who stood in for us, took our punishment for sin, and redeemed us (see Gal 3:13-14) And, He has left His Spirit here to fill the hearts of men; if, by faith, we open the free gift of grace that he presents to us (see Rom 5:5)
We can turn from self-centered living and press onward and upward toward Jesus. This is the choice, THE ONE THING, that defines each person’s destiny.
In the story of The Grinch, he literally turns his sleigh around as he sees the townspeople join hands and begin singing….despite the fact that all their stuff has been stolen! Their actions are so topsy-turvy to what he'd anticipated…. he stands awestruck for a moment. Then, he makes a decision to ditch the way he has been living, and go after what they apparently have found: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. These gifts cannot be mustered up, they come into our hearts by the power of God's Holy Spirit, when we agree with Him that He is God and we are not; and that we need HIM.
The Grinch is like The Prodigal Son who thought he wanted the world, but almost lost his soul in the process. In the end, he repents, re-turns home, seeks and receives acceptance. A great feast is held and repentant thieves (Prodigals & Grinches), become the guests of honor. I believe that great celebrations are held in heaven as well, when people find their way back to God.
I decided to ‘Google’ Dr. Seuss, and see what his intention was, with his character of The Grinch, please enjoy the wisdom of Theodor 'Seuss' Geisel:
"Despite the widespread appeal of the Grinch Story, not everyone was pleased. Dr. Seuss once received a letter from brothers David and Bob Grinch of Ridgefield, N.J., asking if he would change the Grinch's name. Friends were teasing them mercilessly.
Seuss responded, "I disagree with your friends who 'harass' you. Can't they understand that the Grinch is the HERO of Christmas? Sure... he starts out as a villain, but it's not how you start out that counts. It's what you are at the finish!"
12/11/08
Make Me One WHO Loves!
The Grinch HATED Christmas,
the Whole Christmas Season; no one really knows the reason.
It could be his head wasn't screwed on just right.
It could be, perhaps, that his shoes were too tight.
But, I think that the most likely reason of ALL,
May have been that HIS HEART WAS 2 SIZES... 2 SMALL!!!
-------------------------------------------------------
I LOVE The Grinch. He mesmerizes me with that crocked smile and those long fingers as they tap his cheek, or pluck stockings from the WHO's unsuspecting mantels. I've watched the show countless times and I know every word; so, no one will sit and watch with me, (even when I try to be quiet, my lips move involuntarily.) The other night I was home alone, so I seized the opportunity to savor yet another year's Grinch-ly ritual. This time it was The WHO's who mesmerized me.
A Poem for Grinch Transformation,
Lord, Turn Us Into WHOs, Enlarge Our Hearts:
One of my favorite things, as winter evenings grow cold,
Is to put on my plaid pj's. . . now worn, torn and old,
(A little tight these days too, if truth, truely, be told;
But, my furry red slippers. . . close toes in ' just right'
and bring icy cold feet downright 'toe-sty' delight!)
Brew some peppermint tea; now turn off every LIGHT,
'Till all you can see is that STAR shining... BRIGHT
Perched precariously there, a-top of my TREE ...
Then I tiptoe on over, and brimming with GLEE,
I insert that most favorite, of all DVDs
and The Grinch Who Stole Christmas comes on my TV!
I love that Green Grouch and his little Mutt Max
I love Cindy Loo’s face, as her presents he sacks
I love when he grabs that last crumb, (too small for a mouse)
I love when he slithers: slink, slank, slunk through the house.
But, what I look forward to most is the part
Where The Grinch hears The WHO’s singing…
and this OPENS HIS HEART,
Every year, without fail, it moves me to see,
his coronary expansion, (not just 1 size...but 3!)
As WHO’s sing & sway… despite AD-VERS-ITY !!!
Their roast beast has been stolen, no more gifts or decore
No wreaths are attached to a single WHO door,
But those wonder-filled WHO'S, they not only endure,
they lift glad voices to God for their treasures… galore!
The Who’s are not hypocrites, their Faith was tested ... fer sure!
But they came forth as gold, with clean hands & hearts pure.
No whining or complaining; No blaming, nor keeping of score,
They know the sacred secret: J-O-Y can’t be bought in a store.
The Joy’s tucked inside, Priceless Pearl... found.. then hidden away,
Joy springs from big hearts, filled with JESUS, on Christmas Day!
the Whole Christmas Season; no one really knows the reason.
It could be his head wasn't screwed on just right.
It could be, perhaps, that his shoes were too tight.
But, I think that the most likely reason of ALL,
May have been that HIS HEART WAS 2 SIZES... 2 SMALL!!!
-------------------------------------------------------
I LOVE The Grinch. He mesmerizes me with that crocked smile and those long fingers as they tap his cheek, or pluck stockings from the WHO's unsuspecting mantels. I've watched the show countless times and I know every word; so, no one will sit and watch with me, (even when I try to be quiet, my lips move involuntarily.) The other night I was home alone, so I seized the opportunity to savor yet another year's Grinch-ly ritual. This time it was The WHO's who mesmerized me.
A Poem for Grinch Transformation,
Lord, Turn Us Into WHOs, Enlarge Our Hearts:
One of my favorite things, as winter evenings grow cold,
Is to put on my plaid pj's. . . now worn, torn and old,
(A little tight these days too, if truth, truely, be told;
But, my furry red slippers. . . close toes in ' just right'
and bring icy cold feet downright 'toe-sty' delight!)
Brew some peppermint tea; now turn off every LIGHT,
'Till all you can see is that STAR shining... BRIGHT
Perched precariously there, a-top of my TREE ...
Then I tiptoe on over, and brimming with GLEE,
I insert that most favorite, of all DVDs
and The Grinch Who Stole Christmas comes on my TV!
I love that Green Grouch and his little Mutt Max
I love Cindy Loo’s face, as her presents he sacks
I love when he grabs that last crumb, (too small for a mouse)
I love when he slithers: slink, slank, slunk through the house.
But, what I look forward to most is the part
Where The Grinch hears The WHO’s singing…
and this OPENS HIS HEART,
Every year, without fail, it moves me to see,
his coronary expansion, (not just 1 size...but 3!)
As WHO’s sing & sway… despite AD-VERS-ITY !!!
Their roast beast has been stolen, no more gifts or decore
No wreaths are attached to a single WHO door,
But those wonder-filled WHO'S, they not only endure,
they lift glad voices to God for their treasures… galore!
The Who’s are not hypocrites, their Faith was tested ... fer sure!
But they came forth as gold, with clean hands & hearts pure.
No whining or complaining; No blaming, nor keeping of score,
They know the sacred secret: J-O-Y can’t be bought in a store.
The Joy’s tucked inside, Priceless Pearl... found.. then hidden away,
Joy springs from big hearts, filled with JESUS, on Christmas Day!
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