Summits and Plateaus

Okay, so this entry has been percolating for a while. All the better to cover the topic, My Dear.

At the time the idea hit me, I was struggling ... CORRECTION I thought I was struggling. It was like this ...

I'd been on a spiritual high for a while. My daily devotions were fairly regular and particularly meaningful. Bible study meetings were rich and deep. Corporate worship times were feeding my mind and my soul. Fellowship in the body was warm and encouraging. The continuity of God's Word was evident and the relevance of Scripture was powerful. At times I was overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of God's truth and its work in the lives of His people.

Oh, there were still various challenges and hurdles around me, but the goodness of the Lord overshadowed any unpleasantness. My mind and heart were fully focused on The Savior's face and nothing else mattered. It was as if I were dwelling at the worship site atop the Mount of Olives. 2 Samuel 15:30-32 I trust you know what I mean.

Then the day came when that sense of utter contentment slipped. Like a skier who's taken a nasty fall, I checked out my various parts to be sure they were still functioning. My mind continued to affirm the truth of God's loving sovereignty. My heart was still full of gratitude for the saving work of Jesus. My conviction to submit my life to His service was as strong as ever. The circumstances around me hadn't changed significantly. Something was off and, frankly, I was not happy about it.

It took me a few days or maybe a couple of weeks to sort out my symptoms. I reviewed every aspect of my life in the Comforter's presence and the conclusion shook me. I'm almost embarrassed to share it with you. I came to the point where I asked myself what had actually changed in my life. The answer was that I didn't FEEL the same. I was shocked to think that I had been caught in the snare emotions can lay out for us. I would never have believed that I could allow my feelings to take over for truth in coloring my days. I thanked God for drawing me back to Himself and quickly confessed my sin with heartfelt gratefulness for His forgiveness. Psalm 25:15, 1 John 1:9

When I go through experiences like this I catch myself asking, "What lesson should I be learning here?" I know it's a common saying, but I cringe at the words. I don't want the intimate parts of my relationship with my LORD to be boiled down into an academic exercise. Rather, He is tenderly making Himself known to me and I want to take in every aspect of His loving character that He offers to me. [Thank you for letting me address another pet peeve, unhelpful clichés.]

In this portion of my growing relationship with my Abba, I've come to more fully appreciate that the mountaintop experiences are divine gifts. 2 Samuel 22:34 Perhaps they are meant to give us a taste of heaven. Perhaps they are meant to encourage us onward. Perhaps they are basic times of R&R. In any event, each one is an expression of His merciful grace. They are to be recognized and relished. However, I've also come to understand that they have their own particular season according to God's plan. Ecclesiastes 3:1

The problem was that I had grown comfortable and perhaps a bit complacent in the gift of my summit experience. There wasn't a new trauma to address nor a fresh avenue to pursue. The simple truth was that God had merely placed my feet back on the stony path of day-to-day life in a fallen world. He was/is still on His throne. Jesus was/is still whispering in His ear on my behalf. The Spirit was/is still guiding my steps. Hallelujah!

My days are unfolding once again with balance. There's not a hidden threat to uncover or carrot to chase. I'm on the pilgrim's path, the plateau of the walk of faith. The way is not always smooth, but this view of God's hand is spectacular. The summit might be more breathtaking, but the plateau offers the same security, peace and joy in His hands. His truth is in place. He is the Victor. Each portion of the journey He lays out for us is a gift!

May you be equally blessed by the God of Summits and Plateaus!

Roadblocks and Detours

It was a lovely day and we were heading out for our annual leaf peeping drive. The fall is an especially beautiful season in the northeast. A powerful rain storm had run through the night before causing us to be especially grateful to find so many trees still robed in the Father's majesty.

It wasn't a total surprise when we came upon a sawhorse on one of the back roads. We knew electricity was still out in various places. Actually, we were thankful that someone had erected a barrier to protect us from the power lines we could see draped across the road ahead. Curt went left instead of right and we sought another route to get where we wanted to go.

In a few minutes we came up to another sawhorse. This barrier was a bit of a surprise because we couldn't see any problems that would have caused its placement. Curt maneuvered the Jeep around the obstruction and we made our way about another mile. Then we saw the reason for the blockage. The river running along side the road had washed out an entire section. We had to turn around and go back the way we'd come.

It took several more attempts before we got back on track for our fall foliage tour. I must report that someone in the car, who shall remain nameless between the two of us, said on more than one occasion, "Let's just give this up and go home." Instead God carried us along and blessed us through the beauty of His creation and the warmth of our relationship in Him. We were and are thankful for His loving hand.

On that day it was our bodies that made the wandering trek. On many days it is our hearts, minds and spirits that run up against obstacles. They may not look like sawhorses, but they perform the same function. They affect the journey. The question for the believer is how to respond to the barrier before us.

Abraham did not considered the possible destruction of his promised future a roadblock preventing him from obeying God's command. He made the preparations necessary to sacrifice his son Isaac as a burnt offering. Genesis 22:8 explains that Abraham saw this sawhorse merely as a distraction. "God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son." Abraham set out to pursue God's call even to the plunging of a knife into Isaac's body when God made the detour clear." Genesis 22:12,13 reports that God stayed Abraham's hand and provided a ram as the offering.

What would have happened if Abraham had retreated at the first sign of a sawhorse? What if he had considered the risks and stayed at home to avoid them? We learn in other portions of Scripture what happens when God's people pay too much attention to the sawhorses they face. Jonah, Mark 14:66-72 In contrast, God's Word commends Abraham for exercising his faith by not shrinking back from the challenge before him. Hebrews 11:17-19

What about the sawhorses in our own lives? Do we see every one as a roadblock that blocks the way ahead? Do we stay at home in the garage or sit on a roadside bench when we should be persevering? Or do we, like Abraham, continue walking by faith?

There are times when a certain choice, relationship or direction simply is not good for us. We pursue them at our own peril. God knows all things and is compassionate toward His people. He provides a way out of sinful temptation. 1 Corinthians 10:13

The key to walking by faith is to be sure it is our lamplight. John 8:12, Ephesians 1:1-14 We are not being asked to take a blind leap off a precipice into bottomless darkness, but a measured step into the glorious light of God's grace. Ephesians 2:8-10 We are being called to rest in and pursue the pathway laid out for us by the Sovereign of the world.

It behooves the godly traveller to get to know their heavenly Travel Agent - to know Him well. We need to commit ourselves to develop our relationship with God - prayer, worship, study, fellowship. In that way we will grow in understanding, confidence, peace and joy at being in His hands. We will be more able to evaluate the sawhorses that appear in our path and follow the Lord as He guides us around them.

I don't like wandering around backroads not knowing where I am. I prefer beautiful scenery to downed wires and washed out roads. I really enjoy the feeling of relief when I get back on a road I know.

I do not want to wander around in life. I want to be as close to my Abba Father as I can be. I want to enjoy His love and faithfulness up close and personal. Therefore I commit myself to my basic Christian duties. I snuggle up in my private devotions. I focus on my study of the Word. I revel in worship. I delight in fellowship with my brothers and sisters. How about you?

Unhappiness and Blame

I confess. It was a major shock to my system. I like to think that I'm past the infamous 2x4 phase in my spiritual life, but now I'm not so sure.

My morning started off pretty well even though my night's sleep was interrupted a few times. I made my way to my quiet spot and began my devotional time with my heavenly Father. Psalm 17 starts off fairly straight forward. It's a prayer of David and begins with his request that God would hear his plea.

Okay, I'm with you, David. I need God to hear my prayer too. My lips are without deceit as are yours and I know my vindication before the Father comes only through His Messiah. So we're on the same footing.

However, my heart starts to quail a bit at verse 3, "... though you test me, you will find nothing; I have resolved that my mouth will not sin." I perform a conscience check and something is amiss. My eyes travel on to the end of verse 5 "My steps have held to your paths; my feet have not slipped." I can go no further. What is it, Father?

The Spirit confronted me about truth years ago. I rarely slip on that one any more so that's not the issue. By God's grace I've developed a tighter rein on my tongue. James 1:26 I thank Him for causing me to seek forgiveness for a sharp remark I made recently, but that doesn't clear the deck. What's the outstanding issue here, Father? I'm serious about my resolution to keep my mouth from sin and to serve you with a clean heart. Psalm 51

The Spirit reminds me of some pretty ugly remarks I'd made in the last week. More than the words come back to me. I am forced to face the hideous condition of my heart that fed my sinful comments. I immediately throw myself on my spiritual face and cry out for forgiveness. Isaiah 6:5 comes to mind. Thankfully the closing words of 1 John 1 fly into my mind and I am overcome with gratitude and thankfulness, love and praise to God for His faithfulness and justice to grant forgiveness to ME. Amen

The work doesn't end there. There's more to learn so I search deeper. What caused me to make those unpleasant comments, Father?

The truth hits me like a ton of bricks. (Please pardon the cliché.) I was unhappy - quite a shallow feeling. Okay, I was frustrated, disappointed, discouraged and feeling helpless to change the circumstances in which I found myself. I wanted my own way and couldn't figure out how to get it. So I turned to my human nature and blamed someone else. Wrong ... wrong ... wrong! Genesis 3:13 echoes in my mind and I am devastated.

The full weight of what I'd done washes over me. I recognize the danger and can't believe I've moved into it. God is in control of all things ... ALL things. By blaming anyone else for my situation I am implying that they have power in my life. Yes, of course lives are affected by relationships, but God is the one who directs my days. NO BODY can interfere with His plans for me. Jeremiah 29:11 I return again to the sweet relief of 1 John 1:9. My soul rests in the One who knows me better than I know myself and is actively intervening into history to prepare me for eternity in His presence. Hallelujah!

I purpose that next time negative feelings come at me like the kings who joined forces to annihilate Jehoshaphat I will follow his example. I will fight off fear and discouragement by remembering that the battle is God's and not mine. I will submit myself to the God of all creation, stand firm, and look for His deliverance - resting by faith that this is His will for me. 2 Chronicles 20, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Thank you, LORD, that the only person who heard my words was my husband Curt. I'll be sure to share this glimpse of your grace with him and ask his forgiveness as well. Please do cause me to avoid this trap in the future. Though the purification process is uncomfortable, even painful at times, I want to be a clean vessel to serve you and bring glory to Your Name all my days. Amen

2 Timothy 2:20,21, Hebrews 9:14; 10:19-25

Philodendron Harvest

It's been a busy summer so far and it doesn't look like my schedule will slow down for a while. I guess that's why it happened. I nearly committed phytoslaughter ... as opposed to phytocide. (definitions below)

On top of the usual activities of life, Curt and I have undertaken a major purging project in our home. We've made progress in the garage, basement, attic, office, grandkid room and so on. The process has been enjoyable even though it's been draining. There's also been a lot of coming and going with guests. It is always a delight to share the home the Lord has granted us so I was singing along my way. It wasn't until I was finalizing the preparations for a visit from our three wonderful grandchildren that the crisis confronted me.

The philodendron on the back of our toilet (Please excuse the use of this graphic word. That's just where it sits. I didn't want to tell you, but its location is important to my story/confession.) was in desperate straits. I was shocked to see all of its leaves hanging limply around its pot. It seemed like only the day before I had remarked to myself how much it seemed to be thriving on the sunshine and fresh air streaming in through the overhead skylight. I even noticed that one of its lower leaves was turning brown from being bashed by the toilet (There's that gauche word again, sorry.) seat cover. Obviously time had slipped by and my poor plant was suffering from lack of care. I confess that I couldn't remember the last time I'd given it water.

I felt irresponsible and careless and my insides seemed to wither. I can't stand it when I let something go and then see the sad results right before my eyes. Hey, my internal self felt just like that philodendron looked!

Could I be identifying with a plant? Well, at that moment, yes. Come to think of it, whenever I go through a trying time I probably do feel like that plant to one degree or another. My spirit feels pale with a lack of interest. My limbs go limp with a lack of energy. My mind tells me that nobody cares about me since I'm not being watered. My heart withers in defeat. In my low down state I end up getting bumped and bruised by things that don't normally touch me. I begin to wonder if the desert I'm in is endless. My thirsty philodendron was a pretty good example of what happens when I hit a difficult patch of life.

I praise God that I was not in that position that day. My mind and heart rallied with the truth. I know that difficult times do come and they can be devastating. We live in a fallen world surrounded by a pagan culture and it can be downright desolate at times. However, I/we aren't meant to dwell in that desert. It's draining, painful and lonely. God's plan for His chosen ones is the antithesis of such a dry and lifeless existence. Jeremiah 29:11; John 10:10 Our souls are meant to sing songs of victory in spite of our surroundings, in the face of any circumstances. That's what I wanted to give my philodendron.

I've learned over the years, from drowning unnumbered samples of vegetation, that it's not good to flood withering plants. The proper first step is to give it a small amount of water. I determined to suppress the urge to make up for my life-threatening behavior by unleashing my guilt in the form of buckets of liquid. I knew it needed water, but I used a tiny cup and poured a very small amount across the top of the soil. I didn't see any instant results. I had to rely on what I knew to be true and hold off the desire to have my poor philodendron pop right back to life. For one of a few times I did the right thing. I delivered what was needed at the moment and left the water do its work.

I did not turn my back on my plant all together. For one thing I don't like to give up on anything. I prefer to apply myself fully in every situation and make sure I've offered everything I can. I made sure to pay attention to the tilt of the philodendron's leaves and, using much restraint, continued to provide small amounts of water every couple of days. When they started to perk up without showing any signs of yellowing I was encouraged.

The day finally came when I took the plant down to the kitchen and showered it in the sink. I knew I still needed to be cautious about getting drowning the roots - another lesson learned from past drowning victims. I held the pot to the side and used the sprayer only on the leaves, wiping them with a gentle finger. The incidental spray was the only water the soil received that day. When the leaves began to spring back up, I returned it to its assigned place. Sure enough, the lowest leaf was now lifted above the punishing (ahem) seat cover. I was making progress and I could feel my spirit relax.

The Scriptures are rife with references about God's life-giving water. Psalms 1,22,23; Proverbs 25; Isaiah 49; Zechariah 14; John 4 and 7; Ephesians 5; and 1 Peter 3 are but a few places to search. Perhaps none is as powerful as Revelation 21:6. It is clear that God's children need God's water/truth all the time and most especially when we're facing trials. When we're struggling, feeling parched and on the verge of tears we're more likely to get bumped and bruised by minor issues. When our leaves are withered, hanging limply around the pot, as my philodendron's were, God is waiting to pour living water over us - right where we need it and in just the right amount.

Psalm 126 spoke to my heart on this topic this very morning. Verses 5 and 6 report, Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.

The individual described in these verses appears to be in a rocky place, yet he is neither alone nor empty-handed. He carries the seed of faith. He is in the midst of difficulties, yet he is expressing/sharing his faith, sowing his seed. God's covenant to those whose faith abides in hard times is that they will be filled with overflowing joy as they gather a harvest full of blessings. This is not a maybe kind of statement or some wishful thinking. This is the infallible, unchangeable, inspired, breathed promise of God. He commits to revive, restore, and reward those who faithfully turn to Him. Hallelujah!

I'm pleased to report that my plant is thriving nicely. Its sturdy leaves are dark green signals of the proper care it's been receiving. There's even a new shoot to punctuate fresh growth. My prayer is that each of us will surrender to the Lord and experience that same blossoming under the watering can of His Word. Amen

phytocide n the deliberate and systematic destruction of a particular member of the plant phyla

phytoslaughter n the killing of a plant without intentional or implied malice

Breath and Life

When God brings verses from various portions of Scripture into focus the impact can be overwhelming. This insightful glimpse caught me a couple of weeks ago.

I was working on a Bible study for a group of friends who meet weekly. The topic was the word "all". It's only a three letter word, but I'd been noticing the power it commanded when I paid attention to its meaning and application. 2 Timothy 3:16,17 came into view, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

I contemplated the first four words, "All Scripture is God-breathed ...". The Bible is the product of the very breath of the sovereign triune God whom John 1:1-3 reports was and is the Maker of all things.

Another verse tickled the fringes of my mind and I went in search of it.

Genesis 2:7 announces, "the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being." God took some molded earth and granted it life through His breath. The very same breath, God's breath, that transformed a lifeless sculpture into a living being is the life-giving source of Scripture. Whether to the dust of the earth or letters on a page God's breath bestows life.

When I open my Bible the very breath of God rises up to my nostrils. His DNA, if He will excuse the anthropomorphic reference, is imprinted on each word, verse, passage, book ... every piece. As I study Scripture I grow in my understanding of who He is for I am spending time in His presence. I am affected not only by the information divulged and the wisdom expressed there, but also by the life-giving breath of the One who maintains the absolute reliability of His Truth.

There is more than hunger and thirst that calls me to the Word. I need God's life-giving breath to keep me alive and transform my life. The opening chapters of Genesis make it plain and the message is carried through the New Testament. "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." Hebrews 4:12

May each of us grow in the grace and the knowledge of Him who is our All in All. Emmanuel

Busy and Too Busy

Busy-ness is a topic that has been on my heart for a while. Perhaps it's come to a head since I returned last month from four weeks of ministry in Europe, immediately made two trips in New England, and then spent two days at a family funeral in Rhode Island. Yes, my spring schedule has been busy ... jam-packed as a matter of fact.

Actually, as I look around me I notice an awful lot of other people in similar situations. So, here's the question: When does busy become too busy?

Since 2 Timothy 3:16, 17 is true I decided to turn to Scripture in my search for the dividing line between Busy and Too Busy.

Of the seven references I found in the NIV and the one additional one in the KJV, 1 Peter 4:15, all but one use the word "busy" in a negative sense - interesting.

1 Kings 18 reports the events of the clash between Elijah and the 450 prophets of Baal. The prophets had prepared the bull they were given and called out to Baal all morning to ignite their offering. "At noon Elijah began to taunt them, "Shout louder!" he said. "Surely he is a god! Perhaps he is deep in thought, or busy, or traveling. Maybe he is sleeping and must be awakened." (v. 27) Elijah is accusing Baal of being occupied with other things that are keeping him away from this important event. The implication is two-fold: Baal is not powerful enough to take care of everything on his plate, and he is allowing other things to keep him from this critical test of his powers. Being too busy kept Baal from keeping his priorities straight.

A bit further along, in 1 Kings 20, we learn about the consequences of being too busy. God's prophet set a hypothetical situation concerning a servant who was to guard a prisoner before King Ahab. If the prisoner escaped the servant would have to pay with his own life or a large amount of silver that he would never be able to accumulate. "While your servant was busy here and there, the man disappeared." (v. 40) The King replied that the sentence was obvious: since the servant couldn't pay the amount of silver he would have to forfeit his life. The prophet explained to King Ahab that his own life and the lives of his people would be required because he had released a man God had determined should die. Being too busy cost King Ahab his life and the people of Israel much humiliation under Jehu and Jehoahaz.

Isaiah 32:6 also speaks of being busy. "For the fool speaks folly, his mind is busy with evil: He practices ungodliness and spreads error concerning the Lord; the hungry he leaves empty and from the thirsty he withholds water." A life preoccupied with evil leads to godlessness, falsehood, and a lack of compassion. Being too busy in the wrong direction leads to foolishness and folly.

Haggai 1 also addresses the issue of being busy. "You expected much, but see, it turned out to be little. What you brought home, I blew away. Why?" declares the Lord Almighty. "Because of my house, which remains a ruin, while each of you is busy with his own house." (v. 9) God brought drought on HIs people because they were so wrapped up in their own "things" that they did not pay attention to His sanctuary. Being too busy with self-centered activities leads to direct, negative, all-encompassing consequences.

Paul warned the Thessalonians against being idle. 2 Thessalonians 2:6-10 make it clear that idleness is not a desirable trait. Believers are alerted not only to avoid it in their own lives, but to keep away from those who are idle. The specific rule is, "If a man will not work, he shall not eat." It is important for God's people to be busy. Verse 11 adds clarification, "We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies." There are people who appear active, but rather than attending to their own walk of faith they interfere in other people's lives. Being too busy in the lives of others is a sign of the sin of idleness.

This error is further outlined in 1 Timothy 5. "Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about form house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also gossips and busybodies, saying things they ought not to." (v. 13) There are those who forsake the tending of their own homes to meddle in the homes of others. Being too busy trying to run the lives of other people results in the sin of slander.

The KJV reference for being busy is 1 Peter 4:15, "But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's affairs." Busybodies, those described by Paul as seemingly-active idlers who are obsessed with the lives of others, are on the list with murderers, thieves and evildoers. Peter wants God's children to know that they ought to avoid being pre-occupied outside their own purview as much as they avoid these other deadly sins. Being too busy "other focused" leads to reasonable, expected negative consequences.

The final reference to the word busy is found in Titus 2 and is addressed primarily to women. In this epistle Paul explains to Titus how to carry on the building up of Christ's Church. He begins the instructions to women with specific directions about how older women are to live. He continues with what they are to teach to the younger women. "Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the word of God." (v. 4,5)

This passage does not stand alone. It is one reference among several on this topic and a single portion of all of Scripture. Much is said about the role of women, but we will concentrate on this one word here. Older women are called to live in such a way that they will be godly role models, "Then they can train". One of the specific examples they are to set and train is to be "busy at home". This is the only place where the word busy is used in a positive sense. That doesn't mean that being busy is only appropriate for women and in the home. Rather, with all of the other teachings, alerts and warnings in place is it biblically permissible/directed for women to be active in the roles they pursue in their homes.

The truth is that I've never found a home where there isn't plenty to keep a woman busy. However, I've been intimately aware of homes where being idle and/or being too busy has been evident. I say intimately because I've had those seasons in my own life. So ... how do we stay busy without becoming too busy? The Scriptures describe a series of flags that should warn us when we're getting too close to or have crossed that dividing line.

Flag #1
I’m too busy when I my Christian duties get short-circuited. I’m not talking about a little bump here or there. I mean when my personal quiet time with my heavenly Father becomes basically non-existent, or my attendance at church is hit-or-miss, or my regular Bible study falls by the wayside, or my prayer time with my brothers and sisters gets suspended.

Flag #2
I need to seek the Lord about being too busy when the circumstances around me deteriorate. Hebrews 12:1-13

Flag #3
I’m too busy when I catch myself in a habit of sin, especially those sins where God has already granted me victory. Having a bad attitude, participating in gossip, lacking compassion, shaving the truth, forgetting to thank and praise His Name are as red as the flags for murder, theft, evil, etc.

Flag #4
I’m too busy when I become so focused on my little world that I neglect the local body where God has placed me. This shortfall can be in the area of the physical plant or redeemed relationships.

Flag #5
I’m too busy when I’m spending more time and energy worrying about, tending to, and/or talking about other people than I am to my own life - physically, emotionally, spiritually.

Flag #6
I’m too busy when I’m thinking about how to fix a situation in someone else’s life while my house and/or relationships are in disarray.

Flag #7
I’m too busy when I forget that obsessing over outside situations is on the same level as murder and theft.

Flag #8
I’m biblically busy when my mind, heart and spirit are focused on the domain God has laid out for me, seeking to please Him in all I am and do as I set my priorities according to the tasks He has laid out before me. Acts 17: 24-28, Psalm 19:14, Ephesians 2:10

Hallelujah, God is never too busy! He always has His ears tuned to us. He hears our humble cries and responds with love and deliverance. Psalm 34 To God be the glory forever and ever Amen

Bask and BASK

I was having lunch the other day in a cafe on the banks of the Danube River. Before you let your heart drool, it was my first day off in two weeks of 24 hour a day ministry. To say I needed the break would be an understatement. Thankfully God chooses to speak to my heart whether I'm "on duty" or relaxing.

So ... God provided a couple of hours of respite when I could work on a cross stitch picture as I spooned Hungarian Jokai bean soup. Yes, it was delicious. I noticed a group of young women who stepped into the next cafe. They were obviously native French speakers, but were using English to communicate with their waiter. Each of the women was strikingly attractive and they drew a lot of attention. Their friendly chatter spoke of close bonds.

The women chose a table without an umbrella and the waiter complied. As soon as they were seated they glanced up at the midday sun and commented on its brightness. They immediately began rearranging their clothing so that they could take advantage of the tanning opportunity. Some might say their bare shoulders were a bit risqué. They didn't seem to be aware of what onlookers might think as they prepared to make the most of their setting.

It seemed that their lunch was a celebration of some sort though I wasn't able to figure out its reason. Nevertheless, throughout their two hour meal they continually checked the direction of the sun to be sure they were receiving the full benefit of its rays. From time to time I noted one or another face was turned upward, eyes closed, drinking in the solar warmth. Cooling breezes came and went, but the women continued to bask.

When the word bask crossed my mind I was immediately drawn to Scripture. "How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!" 1 John 3:1
I began to consider how much my heart basks in my heavenly Father's love.

As soon as the seasons change and hints of spring appear, sun worshippers are outside soaking up solar energy. The women in the cafe were a good representation of the various expressions of this worship dynamic. They were all committed to making the most of the outdoor exposure. Some were a bit more quiet and serious in their basking while others were chatty and joyful, but all were revelling in the sunbath. They had clearly made special arrangements to be together yet each woman tended her own tanning experience - an even tone, with no strap marks, please.

As their time together ended, the women each readjusted their clothing. They thanked the waiter for His gracious attention and strolled off down the way. They headed out to re-enter their separate worlds, having enjoyed their time together. There is no doubt in my mind that each of them will repeat the sun worship ritual at every opportunity. How about me?

Do I run to God the moment a worship opportunity appears?
Am I basking in His presence whether in a quiet, serious or chatty, joyful mood and/or situation?
Do I turn my face toward Him and revel in His glory and provision?
Am I committed to gathering together with others to soak up and respond to His divine mercy and love?
Do I turn all sides of my own heart and life over to the refining work of the Spirit - an even tone, with no strap marks, please?
Am I confident in the joy of my salvation no matter what others think and though cool breezes blow?
Do I seek and take advantage of every occasion to rest in the grace of my Savior and Lord?
Am I a true Son-worshipper?
How about you?

"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:2 Amen

Celebrate and Rejoice

Christ is risen ... He is risen indeed. Hallelujah!

What better way to celebrate the rising of our Savior and Lord from the tomb than to gather as a family in His reigning presence. We were delighted to welcome our oldest daughter and her family for the Resurrection Day weekend. The house was full of sharing, laughter, and lots of spring cleanup activity. Our hearts rejoiced with it all.

For me, the crowning piece is not the special meal, though it is delicious and a precious time of fellowship. It’s not the flowers either whose variety and colors abound, though they are beautiful and brighten our surroundings. Rather, I revel in being together as a family in worship before our Triune God; Creator, Sustainer and Judge of all that was and is and is to be. Amen

I sat in the sanctuary along side the next two generations and my heart was filled with thankfulness for the faithfulness of my heavenly Father. Regardless of my unworthy condition He continues to express His delight in me with intimacy. This extraordinary worship blessing was one among many God seems to be pouring into my life lately. Last month He brought the truth of Genesis 50:20 to life in a way I pray I’ll never forget.

I’d gone to Washington, DC to meet with the legislators from Maine. I was able to visit each of the four offices as well as visit the Senate and House galleries so I considered it a successful day. On my way to the bus that would take me out of the city I fell and broke my foot ... my right foot. Of course I didn’t know at the time it was broken, but I knew it was badly injured. My brothers and sisters ministered to me throughout the evening and shepherded me through as much of my travel home as they were able. Many of them wondered aloud if I would be able to make my spring trip to Europe. I was concerned about my trip to Tennessee the following week.

Curt met me at the airport and took me directly to the ER. That’s when the x-rays confirmed that a bone in my foot had been chipped. I spent the weekend pondering the questions that were raised about my ability to travel as I laid on the couch. [aside: Why does everyone immediately assume an injury means God is telling one to slow down?] I knew that no matter what it would take, I was going to meet the commitments I’d made. I just kept praying that I wouldn’t have to undergo surgery nor be burdened with a plaster cast. I guess I’m just a practical kinda gal.

The orthopedist was surprised I wasn’t in any pain. I was surprised at the amount of black, blue, green, and yellow that covered my foot. We discovered that I could bear weight on it without discomfort so the doc took away my crutches. When I told him I intended to get on a plane in less than 48 hours he considered whether to put me in one of those large supportive boots or a simple aircast. Hallelujah, the aircast won!

You see, Curt broke his right ankle four months earlier. I had a clear understanding about how casts, crutches, canes, and not being able to drive can affect one’s life. I immediately started praising God all over again - for dodging those bullets on top of bringing me back to my Honey’s arms. As Dr. Avery applied the aircast I realized it was easily removable. When he confirmed my realization, I started thanking God that I’d be able to take showers. Hallelujahs rose up all over again!

Since I already ask for assistance when I travel, I felt cleared to make my way to Chattanooga with bells on my toes. Hah, God had more rich blessings waiting for me. A couple of hours before the conference was to begin I approached the entrance doors. Of course they were locked, but at just that moment someone came out. I asked kindly if I might put my things on a chair ahead of time. I think the cane and slippers might have helped, but I know that God was the One who granted me favor.

I made my way toward the stage and choose a seat in the very front row. It’s my habit to arrive quite early and rush in as soon as the doors open. This time God made the way clear for me to choose a seat in my favorite place without any waiting or rushing. When I returned for the opening session, there were my things. I wanted to announce to the world that God is The Perfect Usher. Wait, there’s more.

I realized that it would be best if my foot, broken only a week earlier, would be most comfortable if I were able to elevate it. I asked a passing stage hand if there might be a chair I could use for that purpose. He was quite pleasant about my request and returned quickly with a straight-backed chair. Can you picture that? I was lounging in the front row. Wait, there’s still more.

As the opening sessions were coming to a close I realized that a helpful person might come along and remove what appeared to be a randomly-placed chair. I didn’t want that to happen so I sought the Lord for what to do. I took out a small pad and wrote on it, “Please leave to elevate a broken foot. Thank you and God bless. :-)”

I appeared the next morning for a new day of feasting on the Word of God. As I made my way to the front of the auditorium, I saw the elevating chair still in its place with my little pad sitting on it. God had reserved my seat for me ... and so it was for the whole event. Among more than 2400 women, my Daddy reserved a front row seat for ME. Hallelujah to the Lord!

Yes, Genesis 50:20 came alive for me last month in Chattanooga as did Romans 8:28. Who would believe that a physical threat such as a broken foot could lead to rejoicing? I do and I pray you will too now that you’ve read my report. There were no mishaps on this second March trip. God took me, kept me, and fed me and I rejoice in His Holy Name.

Back at home I continue to be thankful to my gracious Daddy. He arranged for sweet reminders of our grandchildren’s Easter visit. On Sunday evening I found their toothbrushes and “monogrammed” cups resting on the bathroom counter, waiting for me to tuck them in the cupboard. On Monday Curt discovered a chocolate egg hidden in the fireplace matches, unclaimed by little ones and a delight to a grownup. On Tuesday we found a company of army men safely encamped behind the mail basket in the living room. Each discovery flooded our hearts with warm memories and filled the air around us with chuckles.

These varied glimpses cause me to revel in the goodness of our God as He weaves my life into the masterpiece of His grace. I pray that you too are being wrapped up in His all-sufficient love and mercy.

Wishin' and A-Hopin'

You don't have to raise your hand or anything, but let me ask how many of you spend a fair amount of time wishin'. Sometimes it's a passing thought, such as, "I wish it weren't raining." Or it might be something with a bit more substance, "I wish I lived somewhere else." It could even be as extreme as, "I wish I were married to someone else."

I have no doubt that there are whole flocks of people who spend hours imagining what would happen if they were chosen to be on one of the reality TV shows. From the makeover segments on various talk shows to programming based on the concept, like What Not to Wear, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Survivor, The Amazing Race, even The Biggest Loser viewers are drawn into the world of wishin'. After all, wouldn't it be nice if some outside entity would come in and improve our looks or fix up our home or provide a vacation, an exciting challenge, a financial windfall? What would be the harm in that?

For that matter, what's wrong with thinking about how someone else's life might be improved in similar ways? Certainly we have other people's good in mind when we conclude, "I wish he would pay attention to his manly duties." Or "I wish she would take better care of that responsibility". Or "I wish they would just listen to my advice."

On a superficial level I suppose a bit of wishin' is fine. It may be what leads people to make positive changes in their lives. Perhaps the person who keeps saying to themselves, "I wish I wasn't always rushing to get out the door." will decide to set their alarm clock earlier and enjoy a more peaceful start to their day. I know I've been there myself many times. On a deeper level though I wonder what happens when/if a habit of wishin' develops.

I started to ponder this topic when my mind latched onto a brief portion of "The Five Silent Years of Corrie ten Boom" by Pamela Rosewell. On page 47 of our 1986 paperback edition, the author quotes a letter Corrie received.

"A missionary friend had brought you [Corrie] by car and you had been having a very heavy program through the previous weeks. So you looked around your room and made some remark about how peaceful it was. Then you looked at the friend who had brought you and you said 'I wish ...' But you did not finish the sentence. Instead you looked up and said, 'Father, You do all things well. Thank you.'"

I was trying to get through the book at the time and it was a few weeks before I had time to go back and locate the passage. It had continued to niggle at the edge of my mind and heart. What was it about wishin' that had caused Corrie ten Boom to stop and pray? It seemed so innocuous. My meditation has been developing into a deep glimpse into my heart.

God is sovereign. As Creator and Sustainer, He is the ultimate authority and ruling power of the world. He oversees every detail, no-thing escapes His notice, that His will might be accomplished and His glory made known. The Word also teaches that God is at work in the lives of His own as He prepares them to spend eternity in His presence. Romans 8:28-30 is only one place where this refining activity is outlined. These truths lead us to the only reasonable conclusion. Since God knows and orchestrates every detail of our lives (the good, the bad AND the ugly) for our sanctification, the circumstances around us MUST be what He has arranged for that purpose.

Okay then, that must mean that the rainy day, the place I live, the person to whom I am married, are all part of God's perfect plan to transform me into the image of His Son. 2 Corinthians 3:18 It may not be easy to come to grips with that truth when the picnic is ruined or the house needs repairs or my husband and I are arguing. Circumstances of any kind do not change Truth. It is unalterable. It is what Francis Schaeffer called True Truth.

Since the circumstances in my own life are set and overseen by God for my best and His glory because I am His, bought with a price, that must also be True for all those whom He has chosen. The situations surrounding my Brothers and Sisters are also being coordinated by God for their sanctification. Our Father is using the details of their lives to cause the man to truly undertake his manly duties, the woman to meet her responsibilities, and all of them to seek His will. Real change happens in the heart and God is the One who affects those changes. Acts 16:14

By God's grace, the rest I have been enjoying as I settle into a richer understanding of His sovereignty in my own life has been spreading into my thoughts about the lives others. I find myself praying with an honestly thankful heart as I consider circumstances and situations in the lives of those I love. The mindset and heart condition of Eli in 1 Samuel 3:18 is a model to emulate. Upon learning that God was about to carry out His promised retribution for the sin in his family for which no sacrifice or offering could atone, Eli said, "He is the Lord; let Him do what is good in His eyes."

Scripture tells us that surrender is part of godly worship. Matthew 4:10 directs all believers to "Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only." I want to be fully yielded to my loving Father. I want my wishin' to be transformed by my hopin'. I want to be lost in the wonder of who God is and all that He has prepared for me both now and in the future. Psalm 42:5; 62:5; 147:11, Isaiah 40:31, Romans 5:4; 12:12, Titus 2:13, Hebrews 6:19,20, 1 John 3:1-3 Hallelujah! Christ, in me, is the hope of glory. Colossians 1:27

How my life is changing:

I find myself checking out the wishin' I do.
Am I subtly whining about God's provisions in His love-inspired shepherding?

I find myself identifying with Paul in wrestling my body into submission. 1 Corinthians 9:27

I find myself coming more quickly and fully into my Daddy's presence, asking Him to make His will my own.
Am I willing to worship God no matter the setting?

I find myself turning my wishin' for other folks into prayers of thanksgiving for God's divine work in their lives.
Do I really know that much that I even have an inkling of what needs to happen?

I find myself enjoying more freedom and a richer prayer life. Praise God!

May these thoughts on Wishin' encourage you to set your heart more fully on A-hopin' for "the glory that will be revealed in us". Romans 8:18
Amen and Emmanuel

Woe! and Hallelujah!

The Lord has been encouraging me to contemplate the connection between these two positions for more than a week. I had three other possible topics for this post, but my Honey suggested I pursue this one so here we are.

To be fair, Curt made the remark after I shared a succinct statement so it could be that he was just trying to influence the length since he feels my glimpse reports are (shall we say) a bit wordy. I responded right away that a blog post would require further explanation, but I'm going to follow Curt's lead and see how I do.

An unfolding glimpse:
God knew me and my sin-filled heart (Woe!) before the foundation of the world, and He
still chose to write my name in the book of life,
still sent Jesus His sin-free Son to pay the blood ransom for my soul,
still granted me faith by His grace that I would understand the enormity of His love and provision, and
still undertook to sanctify me for the eternal home He has prepared for me in His Holy presence. Hallelujah!

a partial list of related verses:
Ephesians 1:4-8
Revelation 21:27
Ephesians 2:4,5
Romans 3:21,26; 8:29,30

Soldiers and Sheep

In early December we enjoyed a few wonderful days with our precious grandchildren. We built and demolished a gingerbread house, shopped for "Mom and Dad", went to the Christmas tea party at our local library, and put out our nativity decorations. It was a treat to talk about the incarnation as we set up the manger scene, and to share the continuity of our marriage as we hung a special set of lights for the 41st time. God is gracious!

We're beginning to notice that as the children mature it gets harder to take them home. It's easy to settle back into the slower, quieter tone in our own home, but they bring so much to us. William and James keep Doc busy, and Caroline keeps Marmee entertained. God knows we miss them and is so sweet to tend our hearts. This morning we chuckled when we discovered a heavenly reminder of our time together.

We’re sure it wasn't a sacrilegious statement, but there was an addition to the manger scene - a little green sniper hidden behind a lamb. He was obviously preparing to take out an enemy grenade thrower on the neighboring chair. The army guys brought back the dialogue, sound effects, and giggles of our grandsons' playtime. We thanked God for their visit and the reminder, but evidently we needed more.

The next day I discovered two more soldiers safely camouflaged behind the guest towel in the bathroom. Once again smiles broke out on our faces. We weren’t sure what their mission was, but we granted these faithful military men leave with their buddies. We figured they'd earned it.

We cherish the tender blessings our heavenly Father sends our way. We aren't sure when we'll be granted a glimpse of His mercies so we do our best to keep our eyes open and focused godward. May the Father bless you with glorious glimpses of your own. Amen

Computers and Ladders

"So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and as those entrusted with the secret things of God. Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful. I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself." 1 Corinthians 3:1,2

The Lord brought this passage to my attention recently. It's not that I haven't read it before. My eyes have passed over and my brain has decoded the words on many occasions. Their impact, however, escaped me until this reading. I've been chewing on them ever since. It would take the Lord to use the debacle with my computer to shed light on their meaning.

Computers are wonderful machines. Their uses and benefits would be too extensive to list here. BUT when they won't perform properly or stop functioning all together, it can turn life upside down. Take for example the pharmacy whose computers went off-line in mid-December. For nearly an hour, the staff could only process purchases for customers who had enough cash to cover their total. Frustration reigned on both sides of the counter. A similar situation occurred in my house which lasted much longer.

My former computer, whose manufacturer shall remain nameless but falls under the category of PC, stopped connecting to the internet in October. It was easy enough to commandeer Curt's computer from time to time for email, but I wasn't able to spend any significant time online. That meant that I was prevented from affecting the monthly updates to the Lifework Forum website. It was difficult to be kept from this regular responsibility so I set about figuring out a way around the impasse.

No, the manufacturer would not/could not offer an easy solution. The computer would have to be sent back to them for an unknown cost and with no guarantee that my files would be safe.

No, the local repairmen couldn't offer anything better.

No, I couldn't access the necessary software from any other computer.

Okay, so the answer would have to be something dramatic. We came to the decision that we were being providentially directed to purchase a new computer. Hallelujah, my two year dream was about to come true.

No, that did not solve the problem.

No, the software that drove the website was not compatible with the new computer.

No, the publisher was not willing/not able to trade the PC version for a Mac version because the software had been updated.

Ah, ha, the old computer mysteriously connected to the internet. I scurried around to revise the necessary pages thinking I could update the website at least once more in the old way and would buy some time as I looked for a long-term resolution.

No, when I was ready to publish the revisions the computer would no longer connect to the internet. I was tired of seeing that little red X.

No, we still didn't have the money or desire to purchase more expensive, complicated software.

To say that I was frustrated would be an understatement. I felt I'd been diligent in trying to sort out the problem. It had been a matter of prayer and effort for quite a while. I just wanted it to be over so that I could carry on with my life. Then came the day when I started to make progress. The Lord made it plain that it was time to let the old computer, software, procedures, expectations, etc. go. The energy I was spending in that direction needed to be released to move in the direction He was laying out for His purposes. That little glimpse began to blossom.

Yes, the "old" is gone.

Yes, God is still in this thing with me and there is a solution.

Yes, I have a new, fancy computer and lots to learn.

Yes, there's a whole cast of characters at the Apple store who can help me - for FREE.

Yes, there's a glimmer of hope for this old lady to become conversant in yet another program.

Yes, I began to make valuable strides.

Yes, hallelujah, the Lifework Forum website is once again up and running. (http://www.LifeworkForum.org)

As I sat back and reveled in the relief of meeting my goal, various thoughts began to connect. It was when I laid my dilapidated PC to rest and turned my attention toward moving forward that I made progress. 1 Corinthians 3 came back into my mind. Perhaps part of the process Paul was outlining, "I do not even judge myself, has to do with dwelling on my sin. Scripture is clear about the need to confess and repent so he can't be espousing the idea that God's people are to avoid any kind of self-evaluation before the heavenly throne. Rather, I suspect we are to make our relationships right with God and then move on in His mercy and grace. Otherwise we can become trapped and/or paralyzed.

That's when I pictured myself in the middle of a very long ladder as when I was cleaning out the gutters last fall. At one point I stopped climbing and I felt how wobbly the ladder was. I looked down and saw how high I was and how hard that asphalt was below me. I considered how easy it would be to fall and began to imagine how painful the broken bones would be. I've been in many places and situations that produced the same results.

Of course, practical wisdom says that when climbing a ladder one needs to keep their eyes directed toward the top, focused on the sought-for goal. Once again Paul comes to mind. Divine wisdom applies that same concept to the process of sanctification.

"Brothers, I do to consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. 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 heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13,14

Thank you, Father, for your Word and the ministrations of your Holy Spirit. Amen