A few days ago someone facebooked me these crazy signs and sayings people had in front of their churches. One of my favorites? "What part of thou shalt not don't you understand?"
Interesting question, no? I marvel at God's patience with us. Because we break those top ten rules all the time. All the time. And if we were to try and answer that question, what would we say? No excuse is really viable. We just do it. Like Nike. Only it's called sinning to us Christians.
Sure we try hard not to but it's part of our human nature. Has anyone ever really had an easy time of honoring their parents? It's more like we dream of nursing home placement. Who hasn't slept in because they were too tired to get up and get ready for church? Gossiping? Don't even get me started on that one. And I have to say "ditto" to the whole taking the Lord's name in vain deal. Then there's the big "C". Coveting. Yowsa. I read in the Bible that if you desire someone in your mind/heart-yeah, adultery.
Not pretty. What is pretty awesome is that God loves us. A lot. So much He decided His Son needed to come down to the world He created, live here for thirty-three years or so, teach, preach, love and heal. Then He died for us and rose three days later. So that no matter how many times we don't understand "Thou shalt not" and ask for forgiveness, we've got it. Yowsa!
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Thursday, February 24, 2011
God's Spring
Seriously, is there really more snow coming? When I went to bed the weatherman said maybe two to four inches. Did you miss the "maybe" in that sentence? Because I clung to it like a life raft. When I got up my husband delivered the cheery news that now they were predicting four to eight inches. Wow.
I know I live in the Midwest. I know it's February. But really? Where's the early spring promised by that famous groundhog? I don't like him anymore. Liar, liar pants on fire. And yes, I'm blogging about the weather. Deal with it. Because I'm gonna have to deal with the snow. Dreaming about retiring in Florida and working at Disney isn't working for me anymore.
Snow is okay for a season. A very short season. It is pretty. It sparkles softly and lays quietly. After a snowfall if you stand outside with a hundred layers on-and I'm not kidding-I'm still surprised at how silent the world is. Then, it can melt the next day. Thank you Jesus.
Thanking Jesus for the melting snow is really only the tip of the iceberg. No pun intended. We really wouldn't appreciate Spring as much if we hadn't gone through winter. With Spring comes the budding of trees and the blooming of flowers. I can't believe that the grass is so incredibly green or the flowers of Spring only last a little while. That makes us appreciate them so much more.
Then, there's Easter. Double wow. Pondering all Christ did for us. Sometimes it's unfathomable. But it's always good. It's always filled with love. True, the Reese's peanut butter eggs rock like no other but that isn't the point. The point is Jesus. Point to the cross, point to Jesus. It's a really cool cycle. So ponder that a little more. I know I will and I will never be able to thank Him enough for His sacrifice. I'm going to mull that over a bit longer while I enjoy my peanut butter eggs. On sale now.
I know I live in the Midwest. I know it's February. But really? Where's the early spring promised by that famous groundhog? I don't like him anymore. Liar, liar pants on fire. And yes, I'm blogging about the weather. Deal with it. Because I'm gonna have to deal with the snow. Dreaming about retiring in Florida and working at Disney isn't working for me anymore.
Snow is okay for a season. A very short season. It is pretty. It sparkles softly and lays quietly. After a snowfall if you stand outside with a hundred layers on-and I'm not kidding-I'm still surprised at how silent the world is. Then, it can melt the next day. Thank you Jesus.
Thanking Jesus for the melting snow is really only the tip of the iceberg. No pun intended. We really wouldn't appreciate Spring as much if we hadn't gone through winter. With Spring comes the budding of trees and the blooming of flowers. I can't believe that the grass is so incredibly green or the flowers of Spring only last a little while. That makes us appreciate them so much more.
Then, there's Easter. Double wow. Pondering all Christ did for us. Sometimes it's unfathomable. But it's always good. It's always filled with love. True, the Reese's peanut butter eggs rock like no other but that isn't the point. The point is Jesus. Point to the cross, point to Jesus. It's a really cool cycle. So ponder that a little more. I know I will and I will never be able to thank Him enough for His sacrifice. I'm going to mull that over a bit longer while I enjoy my peanut butter eggs. On sale now.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
God's Lost
I am feeling a bit lost. My father has had a stroke. Not a mini-stroke like he's been having for the past twelve years but a stroke in the cerebrum. He is now using a walker and when I talk to him on the phone he sounds like an old man. Not good. Scary. Not something I really want to face. I spoke to a friend who's mother isn't doing so well either. We are in very different places. This friend is ready to fight. I admire her spirit. I am coping by crying or sleeping. Shock is another word I'd use. Chocolate yet another favorite. Notice praying isn't making the cut.
I wouldn't say my father and I are particularly close. Yet, there were times if he hadn't been there for me, no one would have been. And he gave me strength when I needed it most. We are a lot a like with the same sarcastic humor. He hides his sensitivity and I wear mine like a badge of honor. His criticisms have given me the courage to fight injustice to children-my own, my friends and sometimes strangers. He has empowered me to tell it like it is.
I forget from time to time how deeply religious he is. He doesn't talk about it often. His God is personal and private to him. When he does talk about his faith, everyone sits up and listens. It is incredibly moving.
I'm trying to make my way back to that moving place. Get past the upset and find that place of prayer and faith. Feeling lost isn't where my Heavenly or earthly father wants me to be.
I wouldn't say my father and I are particularly close. Yet, there were times if he hadn't been there for me, no one would have been. And he gave me strength when I needed it most. We are a lot a like with the same sarcastic humor. He hides his sensitivity and I wear mine like a badge of honor. His criticisms have given me the courage to fight injustice to children-my own, my friends and sometimes strangers. He has empowered me to tell it like it is.
I forget from time to time how deeply religious he is. He doesn't talk about it often. His God is personal and private to him. When he does talk about his faith, everyone sits up and listens. It is incredibly moving.
I'm trying to make my way back to that moving place. Get past the upset and find that place of prayer and faith. Feeling lost isn't where my Heavenly or earthly father wants me to be.
Monday, January 31, 2011
God's Warrior
Until recently, I have never had much experience with arguing God's existence with people. However, that has now all changed. After a phone call from a family member I learned another family member had made some disparaging comments about God and His existence. It would appear this member does not believe anymore or believes but also in something else. (Yes, I was confused too.) He or she is an adult so what I tried to explain was this was their choice. Sometimes prayer is all we can offer. Shoving back doesn't always work. Especially if a lot of shoving has been done which is part of the case. I really didn't want to get involved. But, I took my own advice and prayed. I asked God to let me know what, if anything, I was supposed to do.
Amazingly enough, the "quote" popped up on my facebook. Prodding by God? So, I commented on it. Let's just say there were several comments after that by both parties and then some. The last comment was thoroughly confusing so I knew it was time to message this member of my familia. Nothing else has been exchanged.
Some said to delete this person. But, I'm not going to. I prayed for God's leading in this. And I felt it in a big, awesome way. The words I wrote were not my own, they were His. The leading I experienced was some of the strongest I have ever known. Perhaps the comments will make this beloved person consider their opinions. Perhaps not. Deleting someone from not only your facebook friends but your life closes a door that God has opened. I have a very strong perception that was not what God had in mind. I can tell you being on fire for God, being his soldier, warrior or whatever one calls it was more than interesting. It was life changing.
Amazingly enough, the "quote" popped up on my facebook. Prodding by God? So, I commented on it. Let's just say there were several comments after that by both parties and then some. The last comment was thoroughly confusing so I knew it was time to message this member of my familia. Nothing else has been exchanged.
Some said to delete this person. But, I'm not going to. I prayed for God's leading in this. And I felt it in a big, awesome way. The words I wrote were not my own, they were His. The leading I experienced was some of the strongest I have ever known. Perhaps the comments will make this beloved person consider their opinions. Perhaps not. Deleting someone from not only your facebook friends but your life closes a door that God has opened. I have a very strong perception that was not what God had in mind. I can tell you being on fire for God, being his soldier, warrior or whatever one calls it was more than interesting. It was life changing.
Monday, January 17, 2011
God's Children
This weekend my family and I went to a very special presentation. It was High School Musical 2 Jr. and was put on by children who attend Easter Seals. I'm not sure if anyone with special needs can participate or how it works exactly but it was awesome.
These children shone as the lights came up and the music began. I could say it was awe inspiring. I could say I can't believe they did so well. But why? Disabilities are all in the mind. We all have our talents. They are also known as our gifts from God.
Children shouldn't hear "can't". They should be applauded for their efforts, not their outcomes. "Try again" and "You can do it!" resonate. We all need that positive mode of thinking. Not everyone is an artist or athlete. Some of us excel in academics. Or in any of the hundreds of activites that are out there.
One of my children was at Easter Seals for physical therapy for about eight months. I encouraged joining this group for next year's performance. Though I received an, "I dunno," I'm hopeful. I'm also proud of all the accomplishments our child has acheived. Whether taking the stage is in the future or not, I am blessed by the blessing of my children and every child in the world.
These children shone as the lights came up and the music began. I could say it was awe inspiring. I could say I can't believe they did so well. But why? Disabilities are all in the mind. We all have our talents. They are also known as our gifts from God.
Children shouldn't hear "can't". They should be applauded for their efforts, not their outcomes. "Try again" and "You can do it!" resonate. We all need that positive mode of thinking. Not everyone is an artist or athlete. Some of us excel in academics. Or in any of the hundreds of activites that are out there.
One of my children was at Easter Seals for physical therapy for about eight months. I encouraged joining this group for next year's performance. Though I received an, "I dunno," I'm hopeful. I'm also proud of all the accomplishments our child has acheived. Whether taking the stage is in the future or not, I am blessed by the blessing of my children and every child in the world.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
God's Walk
As we approach Right to Life Weekend, I'm again like everyone else, bombarded by all different aspects of the arena. No matter where our stance falls, I'm reminded of an article I read in my college's newspaper in the fall of my freshman year.
It was a feature article. The girl who wrote it was commenting on where would Jesus be if He walked the earth today? What would He be doing? Her answers got my attention. They are as follows: Jesus would be at the homeless shelters handing out blankets, (and in my opinion He'd be making sure everyone had a cot), He'd be at the soup kitchens serving food to the hungry and He'd be waiting for women coming out of the abortion clinics. I'd like to take this last comment a step further.
Jesus would also take these women in His arms and tell them He loved them and forgave them. Because that is what I believe Jesus is: forgiveness and love. I'm also reminded that judging people is God's job, not anyone else's. With so many people and such a broad spectrum of feelings on this topic, I think these three components-forgiveness, love and a non-judgemental attitude-are the final sticking points.
It was a feature article. The girl who wrote it was commenting on where would Jesus be if He walked the earth today? What would He be doing? Her answers got my attention. They are as follows: Jesus would be at the homeless shelters handing out blankets, (and in my opinion He'd be making sure everyone had a cot), He'd be at the soup kitchens serving food to the hungry and He'd be waiting for women coming out of the abortion clinics. I'd like to take this last comment a step further.
Jesus would also take these women in His arms and tell them He loved them and forgave them. Because that is what I believe Jesus is: forgiveness and love. I'm also reminded that judging people is God's job, not anyone else's. With so many people and such a broad spectrum of feelings on this topic, I think these three components-forgiveness, love and a non-judgemental attitude-are the final sticking points.
Monday, January 10, 2011
God's Witness
Today while driving to the gym (yes, I'm still going), I drove past a truck with a white cross hanging in the window. It reminded me of a couple of stories my father-in-law had told me.
One day he was on his way to give a nursing home service. He stopped to get gas. While paying the attendant mentioned, "I've never seen anyone wear three crosses before." He laughed a little as he realized he was wearing a necklace, ring and tie tack all bearing reminders of Jesus' greatest sacrifice and gift to us.
Another time while in flight for vacation a man noticed his cross necklace. He began talking to my dad-in-law about his vocation, belief system and overall God issues. It was a great conversation; but isn't it always when we witness?
I admit it's hard to witness. We may feel the nudge from God but do we follow it? I once confessed to a friend, "I don't want to look like a Jesus freak." She countered, "Yeah, I used to feel that way. If I'm going to be a freak though, I may as well be one for Jesus. Best type of freak to be." Good point.
I pray a lot for the right words to say when the nudge hits me. Most of the time I'm not witnessing to a stranger. I'm reminding my kids or friends or sister of a Jesus thing. Or, I just tell them I'm praying for you. Then, there's this crazy blog thing I do...
I think about my father-in-law. He's a retired pastor now, however he still fills in where and when needed. An added bonus is he also plays a mean organ. So he can take his pastoral/organist show on the road as he's called to do. He's also someone I can contact when I have a question or am gearing up to lead a Bible study and need some clarity. As I pick out my jewelry for the day, I almost always grab one of my cross necklaces. My father-in-law's wordless witness and conversation starters are a huge reminder of what type of Christian I want to be.
One day he was on his way to give a nursing home service. He stopped to get gas. While paying the attendant mentioned, "I've never seen anyone wear three crosses before." He laughed a little as he realized he was wearing a necklace, ring and tie tack all bearing reminders of Jesus' greatest sacrifice and gift to us.
Another time while in flight for vacation a man noticed his cross necklace. He began talking to my dad-in-law about his vocation, belief system and overall God issues. It was a great conversation; but isn't it always when we witness?
I admit it's hard to witness. We may feel the nudge from God but do we follow it? I once confessed to a friend, "I don't want to look like a Jesus freak." She countered, "Yeah, I used to feel that way. If I'm going to be a freak though, I may as well be one for Jesus. Best type of freak to be." Good point.
I pray a lot for the right words to say when the nudge hits me. Most of the time I'm not witnessing to a stranger. I'm reminding my kids or friends or sister of a Jesus thing. Or, I just tell them I'm praying for you. Then, there's this crazy blog thing I do...
I think about my father-in-law. He's a retired pastor now, however he still fills in where and when needed. An added bonus is he also plays a mean organ. So he can take his pastoral/organist show on the road as he's called to do. He's also someone I can contact when I have a question or am gearing up to lead a Bible study and need some clarity. As I pick out my jewelry for the day, I almost always grab one of my cross necklaces. My father-in-law's wordless witness and conversation starters are a huge reminder of what type of Christian I want to be.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
