We decided over the weekend that it was time to shop for a new refrigerator. Our old one is over 15 years old, and we thought it would be better to buy a new one while the current one was still running.
There is an outlet store not far from us that sells appliances that have been damaged during shipping. The discounts for a scratch here or a small dent there are enormous, so that was our designated stop. We hadn't expected to buy this weekend. We were just going to price; but the refrigerator we ended with was just too big a deal to pass up.
Of course, we didn't buy right away. We went home, prayed, and did some research. We discovered our old refrigerator used twice as much electricity as the newer one! And the newer one was about 7 cubic feet bigger!!
When my husband went back to the store later that evening, he paid the price on the tag which was about 40% off retail. He picked the refrigerator up on Sunday and it is now sitting in our kitchen keeping very quiet (our old one was starting to get noisy) and looking tall and regal.
I was reminded of our lives before we accepted Jesus into our hearts. Sin made us old and noisy and about ready to fall apart. We used up a lot of energy and weren't very efficient. When we accepted the price that Christ paid for us on the cross, we became brand new. We weren't and aren't perfect. There may be a few dents or scratches from our old ways that need to be smoothed out over time, but we are clean and we run smoothly because the Lord has made our hearts work properly.
2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold all things have become new." If you have already accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior, rejoice. You are a new creation in the eyes of God. If you haven't, turn to Him. Ask Him to recreate you so that you can toss out the old, sinful ways, and begin life anew.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Weekend Reflection
"Let your speech always be with grace,
seasoned with salt,
that you may know how you ought to answer each one."
Colossians 4:6
Friday, March 28, 2008
Time Is Flying By
Have you noticed how fast the days are flying by? Didn't we just celebrate Christmas? Before you know it we will be making our New Year's resolutions for 2009!
The problem with this apparent speeding of time is that we don't get to finish all that we need and want to accomplish. Projects get pushed aside because we can't find the time to work on them. Goals we have set for ourselves lose their value because we get distracted with other pressing matters.
Although it seems like an impossible task, I think there are solutions to help us make good use of our time. First, make a list of things you would like to do, both long term and short term. Next, tackle the easy projects first to get them off your list. At the same time, allow yourself a set time each day to work on your long term projects.
For example, if you want to work on your memoirs, allow fifteen minutes a day to write. You will be amazed at what you will have written in a month. Maybe you want to work on planting a garden this Spring. Spend a half hour each day doing things like drawing out plans, buying seeds, or preparing the ground for planting. By scheduling in the big project each day or every other day, you will make a dent into what normally would be a daunting task.
The point is to set the time and follow through. Nothing will ever be accomplished by wishful thinking. Action, even if it's a little at a time, will get those projects done.
What is it that you would like to accomplish this year? Make an asserted effort to do a bit each day, and watch those projects, instead of time, fly by.
The problem with this apparent speeding of time is that we don't get to finish all that we need and want to accomplish. Projects get pushed aside because we can't find the time to work on them. Goals we have set for ourselves lose their value because we get distracted with other pressing matters.
Although it seems like an impossible task, I think there are solutions to help us make good use of our time. First, make a list of things you would like to do, both long term and short term. Next, tackle the easy projects first to get them off your list. At the same time, allow yourself a set time each day to work on your long term projects.
For example, if you want to work on your memoirs, allow fifteen minutes a day to write. You will be amazed at what you will have written in a month. Maybe you want to work on planting a garden this Spring. Spend a half hour each day doing things like drawing out plans, buying seeds, or preparing the ground for planting. By scheduling in the big project each day or every other day, you will make a dent into what normally would be a daunting task.
The point is to set the time and follow through. Nothing will ever be accomplished by wishful thinking. Action, even if it's a little at a time, will get those projects done.
What is it that you would like to accomplish this year? Make an asserted effort to do a bit each day, and watch those projects, instead of time, fly by.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Abundant Evidence
Since this was Easter vacation for my kids, we decided to take a field trip down to Santee (near San Diego, California) to visit the Institute for Creation Research Museum. The drive was long, but the day was beautiful, making for a pleasant excursion.
Although small, the museum was packed with an enormous amount of information that supported Creationism. It was laid out in a series of rooms that basically unfolded time from the first day of creation to the present century. I would have loved to linger through the rooms reading and observing all the carefully created displays, but with six children ranging from ages seven to 14 (I had my niece and nephew along), the attention spans varied. I had to be satisfied with scanning most of the information. It's a good thing I'm a fast reader.
I particularly liked the abundant amount of evidence to support the idea that we were created beings. We were not accidentally formed by a supercharge of electricity that pulsated through some over-proteinized ooze. There is design and detail in this world. Everything has purpose and reason.
It takes more faith to believe that we were once slime and now have rational thought; that we evolved from monkeys and are now swinging down the halls of commerce and productivity instead of swinging from tree to tree. I'd rather believe in a God who loves me and has a special plan for me than believe I have no value because I was formed from a pool of goop. The evidence for a Divine Creator is all around us. It is available to anyone willing to examine the data with an honest evaluation.
I'm glad I matter to God. Try to remember that you matter to Him, too!
Although small, the museum was packed with an enormous amount of information that supported Creationism. It was laid out in a series of rooms that basically unfolded time from the first day of creation to the present century. I would have loved to linger through the rooms reading and observing all the carefully created displays, but with six children ranging from ages seven to 14 (I had my niece and nephew along), the attention spans varied. I had to be satisfied with scanning most of the information. It's a good thing I'm a fast reader.
I particularly liked the abundant amount of evidence to support the idea that we were created beings. We were not accidentally formed by a supercharge of electricity that pulsated through some over-proteinized ooze. There is design and detail in this world. Everything has purpose and reason.
It takes more faith to believe that we were once slime and now have rational thought; that we evolved from monkeys and are now swinging down the halls of commerce and productivity instead of swinging from tree to tree. I'd rather believe in a God who loves me and has a special plan for me than believe I have no value because I was formed from a pool of goop. The evidence for a Divine Creator is all around us. It is available to anyone willing to examine the data with an honest evaluation.
I'm glad I matter to God. Try to remember that you matter to Him, too!
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
A Gamble
I've noticed something lately. I'm seeing more shows and advertisements about gambling. If it's not "Deal or No Deal" where the contestant chooses a suitcase hoping it contains a million dollars, then it's billboards on the freeway announcing 1,300 new slots at an Indian casino in the desert.
Another billboard boasts about the next lotto jackpot. Television commercials show a happy couple winning big at the black jack tables. Getting what seems to be easy money is the big push nowadays.
I tried my hand at gambling many, many years ago when I took a quick trip to Las Vegas, Nevada with my cousin. We played a variety of slot machines and the Keno game. I was daring at one point and played the dollar slots. For awhile I was doing pretty well, winning a tidy sum, but then I started to lose. Eventually all my winnings were used up and I had to decide whether to invest any more of my vacation money or just stop playing. I chose to stop.
Gambling establishments use lights, sounds, and colors to make their casinos enticing and attractive. They give you the impression that it's easy to win, but if that were really true, they'd all be out of business. I have long decided that the thrill of the play is not worth losing my hard earned money. The odds are definitely not in my favor.
It's too bad people don't realize that they are gambling with eternity when they don't accept Christ as their Lord and Savior. They think the odds are with them that they'll go to heaven on their own merit. Others think they will have that last chance to accept Christ at the moment of death.
The Bible tells us that the only way to get to heaven is through Jesus. No amount of betting or manipulating the odds will change that. Jesus is a sure thing. Why gamble on your eternal life? Jesus is the only way to win big.
Another billboard boasts about the next lotto jackpot. Television commercials show a happy couple winning big at the black jack tables. Getting what seems to be easy money is the big push nowadays.
I tried my hand at gambling many, many years ago when I took a quick trip to Las Vegas, Nevada with my cousin. We played a variety of slot machines and the Keno game. I was daring at one point and played the dollar slots. For awhile I was doing pretty well, winning a tidy sum, but then I started to lose. Eventually all my winnings were used up and I had to decide whether to invest any more of my vacation money or just stop playing. I chose to stop.
Gambling establishments use lights, sounds, and colors to make their casinos enticing and attractive. They give you the impression that it's easy to win, but if that were really true, they'd all be out of business. I have long decided that the thrill of the play is not worth losing my hard earned money. The odds are definitely not in my favor.
It's too bad people don't realize that they are gambling with eternity when they don't accept Christ as their Lord and Savior. They think the odds are with them that they'll go to heaven on their own merit. Others think they will have that last chance to accept Christ at the moment of death.
The Bible tells us that the only way to get to heaven is through Jesus. No amount of betting or manipulating the odds will change that. Jesus is a sure thing. Why gamble on your eternal life? Jesus is the only way to win big.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Stubborn Stains
I had warned her. I strictly asked my seven year old to be careful when she went outside because she was wearing a beautiful pair of pink shorts for the very first time, and I didn't want them to get stained. I should have asked her to change her clothes. Now there are two spots on the back that won't come out. I tried using a stain stick and re-washing, but to no avail. The stain has set. Her shorts will move from the nice clothes pile to the play clothes pile. Too bad she only wore them once.
My mother taught me a few tricks about stubborn stains. Put a bit of flour on grease stains and then use a stain stick. Use hair spray for ink. Use cold water for blood. My problem with these shorts was that I didn't see the stain before I threw them into the washer. It wasn't until I was transferring the clothes to the dryer that I noticed the trouble. That's when I applied the stain stick and re-washed. I should have been more observant earlier.
We carry the stain of our sins with us. Mistakes we made will leave some type of mark on our attitudes or in our relationships. Time will fade and discolor the original markings, but some hint will always be there. Only God has the power to clean away the residue of our past. His special cleaning agent is made from a very unusual ingredient: the blood of Jesus Christ. It is only through Christ's sacrifice on the cross can our stain be scrubbed away and we can be made white as snow. Through His healing power, the scars our sins left behind (fear, hate, doubt, anger, etc.) will start to fade. It we trust Him to work in our lives, the scars will eventually disappear.
Have you tried to scrub out the stubborn stains in your life only to fail in the process? Let God wipe away your stains so you can be sparkling bright.
My mother taught me a few tricks about stubborn stains. Put a bit of flour on grease stains and then use a stain stick. Use hair spray for ink. Use cold water for blood. My problem with these shorts was that I didn't see the stain before I threw them into the washer. It wasn't until I was transferring the clothes to the dryer that I noticed the trouble. That's when I applied the stain stick and re-washed. I should have been more observant earlier.
We carry the stain of our sins with us. Mistakes we made will leave some type of mark on our attitudes or in our relationships. Time will fade and discolor the original markings, but some hint will always be there. Only God has the power to clean away the residue of our past. His special cleaning agent is made from a very unusual ingredient: the blood of Jesus Christ. It is only through Christ's sacrifice on the cross can our stain be scrubbed away and we can be made white as snow. Through His healing power, the scars our sins left behind (fear, hate, doubt, anger, etc.) will start to fade. It we trust Him to work in our lives, the scars will eventually disappear.
Have you tried to scrub out the stubborn stains in your life only to fail in the process? Let God wipe away your stains so you can be sparkling bright.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Family
I had a great time with family yesterday. My cousins, grandmother, mother, aunt, sister, niece and nephew, and my family met up at my Mom's to celebrate Easter. We hugged, conversed, laughed, ate, laughed some more, and just had a wonderful afternoon of fellowship. I love getting together on holidays.
Our busy lives don't allow us much extra time to get together than those few days a year. Work, school, distance and extra curricular activities are some of the reasons we don't see each other more often. We also all have different friends, so we don't associate with the same people.
Have you thought how it will be in heaven when the members of God's family get together? Even though we will come from different backgrounds and different regions of the world, we will be united because of our common love of Jesus. We will have automatic kinsmanship as if we had always known one another.
Because our main purpose in heaven will be to worship and glorify God, we won't be worried about leaving our time of fellowship because of work the next day or a school assignment that needs finishing. We will want to stay and interact with our fellow believers in open praise to our Lord and King. Our thoughts will be focused on God and not ourselves.
Will you be joining me in heaven for fellowship with God? I'm looking forward to praising Him with you!
Our busy lives don't allow us much extra time to get together than those few days a year. Work, school, distance and extra curricular activities are some of the reasons we don't see each other more often. We also all have different friends, so we don't associate with the same people.
Have you thought how it will be in heaven when the members of God's family get together? Even though we will come from different backgrounds and different regions of the world, we will be united because of our common love of Jesus. We will have automatic kinsmanship as if we had always known one another.
Because our main purpose in heaven will be to worship and glorify God, we won't be worried about leaving our time of fellowship because of work the next day or a school assignment that needs finishing. We will want to stay and interact with our fellow believers in open praise to our Lord and King. Our thoughts will be focused on God and not ourselves.
Will you be joining me in heaven for fellowship with God? I'm looking forward to praising Him with you!
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Friday, March 21, 2008
A Good Friday Note
Today we celebrate Good Friday, the day that Jesus suffered and died on the cross. Hours before He was celebrating the Passover Supper with His disciples, enjoying one last moment of fellowship.
I starting thinking about that Last Supper. Jesus knew Judas Iscariot would betray Him. He knew that the betrayal would lead to intense suffering, humilation, pain, and death the next day. Yet when Jesus took the bread and the cup, telling the disciples that this was His body and blood broken and shed for them, He was offering life to everyone including the very man who had sold Him for thirty pieces of silver.
What mercy and grace! Jesus could have waited until after Judas had gone to the Chief Priests before He broke the bread and offered the cup. Instead, Judas had one last chance; but he refused to accept it.
Have you refused to accept the gift of life that God is offering to you through the sacrifice of His Son? Jesus died on this very day over 2,000 years ago so that you could receive eternal life. Ask Him into your heart and your life today before your lose your chance.
I starting thinking about that Last Supper. Jesus knew Judas Iscariot would betray Him. He knew that the betrayal would lead to intense suffering, humilation, pain, and death the next day. Yet when Jesus took the bread and the cup, telling the disciples that this was His body and blood broken and shed for them, He was offering life to everyone including the very man who had sold Him for thirty pieces of silver.
What mercy and grace! Jesus could have waited until after Judas had gone to the Chief Priests before He broke the bread and offered the cup. Instead, Judas had one last chance; but he refused to accept it.
Have you refused to accept the gift of life that God is offering to you through the sacrifice of His Son? Jesus died on this very day over 2,000 years ago so that you could receive eternal life. Ask Him into your heart and your life today before your lose your chance.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Hanging On
After three weeks I still have my cold. I don't have the stuffy nose or the congestive cough or the sore throat anymore, but I have a heavy chest and I get tired too easily. I don't think I've ever had a cold last this long.
To make sure I didn't have anything serious, I made a doctor's appointment yesterday. I got in pretty fast, stood on the scale (they must have fixed it this time since my weight was closer to what it should have been on the last visit two months ago), had my blood pressure and temperature checked, and then waited a good ten minutes for the doctor to arrive.
I explained my symptoms and the doctor made me breathe deeply and cough loudly. Then he set me up with antibiotics for 10 days to get rid of the infection in my chest. I will be glad when this cold stops hanging on.
The effects of sin seem to infect our lives for a long time. We can try all sorts of remedies to relieve our consciences, to patch up our lives, and try to get back on our feet, but inevitably we will fail in our feeble attempts and the sin will hang on and on. Only a True Physician can diagnose us properly and give us the correct prescription that will get us back on the road to recovery. That Doctor is Jesus. When we come to Him in the midst of our sins and ask for His forgiveness, He can touch our hearts and our lives and heal us. We can be cleansed and made new. We can be freed from the weight of our transgressions.
Is sin hanging on like a never ending cold? Turn to the Great Physician and let Him make you healthy and whole once again.
To make sure I didn't have anything serious, I made a doctor's appointment yesterday. I got in pretty fast, stood on the scale (they must have fixed it this time since my weight was closer to what it should have been on the last visit two months ago), had my blood pressure and temperature checked, and then waited a good ten minutes for the doctor to arrive.
I explained my symptoms and the doctor made me breathe deeply and cough loudly. Then he set me up with antibiotics for 10 days to get rid of the infection in my chest. I will be glad when this cold stops hanging on.
The effects of sin seem to infect our lives for a long time. We can try all sorts of remedies to relieve our consciences, to patch up our lives, and try to get back on our feet, but inevitably we will fail in our feeble attempts and the sin will hang on and on. Only a True Physician can diagnose us properly and give us the correct prescription that will get us back on the road to recovery. That Doctor is Jesus. When we come to Him in the midst of our sins and ask for His forgiveness, He can touch our hearts and our lives and heal us. We can be cleansed and made new. We can be freed from the weight of our transgressions.
Is sin hanging on like a never ending cold? Turn to the Great Physician and let Him make you healthy and whole once again.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Stop, Look, and Listen
Monday I had a chance to take a quick walk through a beautiful area near my friend's home. Unless you lived in the area, you would never know that place existed. We walked past lush green hills, tall pepper trees, grazing cows and a gentle stream. I felt as if I had stepped back into the late 1800's. The quiet was only broken by our voices and the flitter of humming birds as they zoomed by.
I love walking through nature. It is a vivid reminder that God is the Creator. Each tree, leaf, blade of grass, horse, cattle, bush, and rock shows His perfect handiwork. Even in our fallen world there are still many elements of beauty to be found. I can't even imagine how awesome and wonderful God's original designs must have been!
Depending where you live it may be difficult to find these little glimpses of God's creation. Too many times concrete and steel take over the grass and trees. It may take some effort, but try to find a park or a nature center near your home. Sit on a bench or walk along a trail and just enjoy the beauty that was created for us.
The evidence of God is all around. Take the time to stop, look, and listen.
I love walking through nature. It is a vivid reminder that God is the Creator. Each tree, leaf, blade of grass, horse, cattle, bush, and rock shows His perfect handiwork. Even in our fallen world there are still many elements of beauty to be found. I can't even imagine how awesome and wonderful God's original designs must have been!
Depending where you live it may be difficult to find these little glimpses of God's creation. Too many times concrete and steel take over the grass and trees. It may take some effort, but try to find a park or a nature center near your home. Sit on a bench or walk along a trail and just enjoy the beauty that was created for us.
The evidence of God is all around. Take the time to stop, look, and listen.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Saying Thank You
Have you thanked God for being God? We thank Him for a lot of things: family, friends, a roof over our heads, food on our table, and clothes to wear. But how often do we take the time to thank Him for Who He is?
God is our all in all. He is the great "I am." He is our provider, our protector, our strength and our shield. He is our rock, our fortress, our redeemer, and our Savior. He is everything we should ever want and He is everything we will ever need.
Don't you think Someone that awesome and amazing and full of grace and mercy deserves to be thanked now and again? Take some time today to give thanks and praise to our great and mighty God.
God is our all in all. He is the great "I am." He is our provider, our protector, our strength and our shield. He is our rock, our fortress, our redeemer, and our Savior. He is everything we should ever want and He is everything we will ever need.
Don't you think Someone that awesome and amazing and full of grace and mercy deserves to be thanked now and again? Take some time today to give thanks and praise to our great and mighty God.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Forty Days
Our church just completed a voluntary forty day fast. As we denied our bodies of food, we were to turn to the Lord for sustenance. There were no rules for what food or foods to give up. It was essentially a time of sacrifice between us and the Lord.
I chose to give up red meats and snacking in-between meals. What a tough choice I made! I hadn't realized how much I enjoyed being able to go the fridge or pantry as I pleased to get something to munch on. The desire for hamburgers or a bowl of ice cream was incredible. But I tried to be true to the commitment I had made with the Lord. I wanted to direct my fleshly desires to become spiritual desires, seeking to develop a deeper relationship with the King of kings.
As the days turned into weeks I noticed two things. One, that my desires for the extra food was fading; and two, I was becoming more intune with my directions from the Lord. As I sought to hear from Him instead of reaching for food, I realized that there were things He expected me to do. Now with the fast over, I am praying for Him to direct me in how I am to carry out those plans.
I'm glad I chose to carry out this fast. It gave me time to earnestly seek the Lord, interceding for my friends, family, country, and my commission. It made my heart desire a more intimate relationship with God.
Take some time to seek the Lord as your source of nourishment. You don't have to go forty days; just make sure you are reaching for Him instead of that package of cookies. God will talk to you. Get your heart ready to listen.
I chose to give up red meats and snacking in-between meals. What a tough choice I made! I hadn't realized how much I enjoyed being able to go the fridge or pantry as I pleased to get something to munch on. The desire for hamburgers or a bowl of ice cream was incredible. But I tried to be true to the commitment I had made with the Lord. I wanted to direct my fleshly desires to become spiritual desires, seeking to develop a deeper relationship with the King of kings.
As the days turned into weeks I noticed two things. One, that my desires for the extra food was fading; and two, I was becoming more intune with my directions from the Lord. As I sought to hear from Him instead of reaching for food, I realized that there were things He expected me to do. Now with the fast over, I am praying for Him to direct me in how I am to carry out those plans.
I'm glad I chose to carry out this fast. It gave me time to earnestly seek the Lord, interceding for my friends, family, country, and my commission. It made my heart desire a more intimate relationship with God.
Take some time to seek the Lord as your source of nourishment. You don't have to go forty days; just make sure you are reaching for Him instead of that package of cookies. God will talk to you. Get your heart ready to listen.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Friday, March 14, 2008
Detours
The signs are out now. First it was SLOW and CONSTRUCTION AHEAD. We even had ROAD CLOSED. Now it's DETOUR. I will be glad when this construction is over.
I don't like detours. They take me away from my destination, and I usually end up in some area I'm not familiar with. I also take longer to get to where I'm going, something I usually didn't plan on when I started out.
So why take them? If I don't follow the detour, I have to turn back and not go where I had planned. If I try to go around by a different direction, I may have to keep backtracking because the road I want is blocked off further ahead.
Detours are supposed to be for my good. They keep me from unsafe byways. I am spared flat tires, tweaked suspensions, and worn out shocks. My life may even be spared by not falling into a hole.
God uses detours in our lives. He knows the dangers the road up ahead will bring, so He may sidetrack us to go in another direction. He may veer us elsewhere so we can see a different view or take on an adventure we would not have experienced otherwise.
Have you been noticing a lot of detours in your life lately? Trust God's navigation and take the side road He has planned for you.
I don't like detours. They take me away from my destination, and I usually end up in some area I'm not familiar with. I also take longer to get to where I'm going, something I usually didn't plan on when I started out.
So why take them? If I don't follow the detour, I have to turn back and not go where I had planned. If I try to go around by a different direction, I may have to keep backtracking because the road I want is blocked off further ahead.
Detours are supposed to be for my good. They keep me from unsafe byways. I am spared flat tires, tweaked suspensions, and worn out shocks. My life may even be spared by not falling into a hole.
God uses detours in our lives. He knows the dangers the road up ahead will bring, so He may sidetrack us to go in another direction. He may veer us elsewhere so we can see a different view or take on an adventure we would not have experienced otherwise.
Have you been noticing a lot of detours in your life lately? Trust God's navigation and take the side road He has planned for you.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
False Hopes
A few years ago my kids and I visited the King Tut exhibit in Los Angeles to witness relics of Egyptian past. We were shuffled en masse room by room to see bits of antiquity that had been unearthed in the 1920’s. I noticed one thing that linked the various items: they were objects designed for hope of the afterlife.
Model boats, chairs, cosmetic jars, containers to hold vital organs, chests, games, and even intricately sculptured statues and idols were all included in the pharaoh’s tomb to make the transition to the next world smooth and comfortable. There was so much attention to detail: little vulture and cobra heads were intricately painted; feather patterns were carefully stamped onto gold leaf; facial features were perfectly chiseled into stone.
The task to create such objects was an important one since the pharaoh was considered a god among men. It’s sad that so much time and energy was spent making these “transitional” pieces that were essentially worthless. Theirs was a false hope because the road the Egyptian kings expected to travel on would not lead them to the blessed afterlife they so desired.
Jesus warned in Matthew 7:13-14, “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”
Being good, doing good deeds, even killing in the name of one’s god have been ways thought to lead to eternity. But Jesus said clearly in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” Jesus is the key that opens the door to everlasting life.
The Bible says the days ahead will get worse. Hope will be sought after more than ever before. The devil will try his best to continue sending out false hopes. We are called to share the true hope of Jesus. Only His hope will stand the true test of time.
Model boats, chairs, cosmetic jars, containers to hold vital organs, chests, games, and even intricately sculptured statues and idols were all included in the pharaoh’s tomb to make the transition to the next world smooth and comfortable. There was so much attention to detail: little vulture and cobra heads were intricately painted; feather patterns were carefully stamped onto gold leaf; facial features were perfectly chiseled into stone.
The task to create such objects was an important one since the pharaoh was considered a god among men. It’s sad that so much time and energy was spent making these “transitional” pieces that were essentially worthless. Theirs was a false hope because the road the Egyptian kings expected to travel on would not lead them to the blessed afterlife they so desired.
Jesus warned in Matthew 7:13-14, “Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.”
Being good, doing good deeds, even killing in the name of one’s god have been ways thought to lead to eternity. But Jesus said clearly in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” Jesus is the key that opens the door to everlasting life.
The Bible says the days ahead will get worse. Hope will be sought after more than ever before. The devil will try his best to continue sending out false hopes. We are called to share the true hope of Jesus. Only His hope will stand the true test of time.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Great Expectations
"Has he come? Is it here?" Those have been the latest questions of my sons when I pick them up from school. Such eager anticipation, and all for a new video game that is supposed to arrive any day in the mail.
I used to be just as excited about the visits from the mailman when I was a kid. I remember writing letters for information or placing orders for things and then waiting to see each day what the mail would bring. It was worse in the summer when I had huge amounts of time to wait. Of course, I was more often disappointed than pleased when the mailman's arrival didn't bring anything for me.
As I look back with the eye of an adult who knows how insignificant the things I was waiting for really were, I can't help but miss that feeling of expectation. I knew there was something coming for me. It could come any day. That excitement gave me hope that if it didn't come one day, it could come the next. It's too bad maturity and age robs us of that sense of longing.
Wouldn't it be great if we were that excited about Jesus coming back? We don't know the day or the hour of His imminent return, but the Bible says we will know the season. It could be any day now. I need to ask the Lord to forgive me for not being as excited as I should be. Then I need to ask Him to make me like that young girl who waited with great expectation for a very special delivery.
How about you? Will you join in the wait for Jesus with the eagerness He deserves?
I used to be just as excited about the visits from the mailman when I was a kid. I remember writing letters for information or placing orders for things and then waiting to see each day what the mail would bring. It was worse in the summer when I had huge amounts of time to wait. Of course, I was more often disappointed than pleased when the mailman's arrival didn't bring anything for me.
As I look back with the eye of an adult who knows how insignificant the things I was waiting for really were, I can't help but miss that feeling of expectation. I knew there was something coming for me. It could come any day. That excitement gave me hope that if it didn't come one day, it could come the next. It's too bad maturity and age robs us of that sense of longing.
Wouldn't it be great if we were that excited about Jesus coming back? We don't know the day or the hour of His imminent return, but the Bible says we will know the season. It could be any day now. I need to ask the Lord to forgive me for not being as excited as I should be. Then I need to ask Him to make me like that young girl who waited with great expectation for a very special delivery.
How about you? Will you join in the wait for Jesus with the eagerness He deserves?
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Light at the End of the Tunnel
I can see it: the light at the end of the tunnel. There was a slew of tasks blocking my view. It's nice to see that there will be a conclusion to all this.
A contract, a promotions packet, story deadlines, family obligations, etc. had filled my "in" box. Panic could have easily set in, especially as I tried to wade through this whole new concept of trying to promote a book. Instead of reaching for the panic button, I decided I needed to: 1) pray; 2) seek wise counsel; 3) prioritize; and 4) take things one step at a time.
Prayer should always be the first choice of any activity. It gives you an opportunity to worship the Lord and to show Him you do need His help and intervention. Prayer allows us to hear what God would have us do in any situation.
A natural result of prayer is direction. In my case, I sought wise counsel from friends and family members. They played key roles in helping me keep focused and on track. They also gave me accountability.
The suggestions of my counselors led me to prioritize. Since I was stretched in different directions, I had to figure out what needed to be taken care of first. I couldn't do everything all at once.
When I knew the order of importance, I needed to break the tasks down into steps. Instead of looking at massiveness, I looked at pieces. By working this way, I was able to accomplish a lot and I made better use of my time.
My contract has now been reviewed, my promotions packet is completed, and I'm almost through with one story in plenty of time to meet my deadline. I still have to wait on a few e-mails, but for the most part, I am done.
Are you looking at your tasks instead of at Jesus? Ask for His help. Trust His direction. You will eventually see the light, the One, True Light, at the beginning, middle and end of the tunnel.
A contract, a promotions packet, story deadlines, family obligations, etc. had filled my "in" box. Panic could have easily set in, especially as I tried to wade through this whole new concept of trying to promote a book. Instead of reaching for the panic button, I decided I needed to: 1) pray; 2) seek wise counsel; 3) prioritize; and 4) take things one step at a time.
Prayer should always be the first choice of any activity. It gives you an opportunity to worship the Lord and to show Him you do need His help and intervention. Prayer allows us to hear what God would have us do in any situation.
A natural result of prayer is direction. In my case, I sought wise counsel from friends and family members. They played key roles in helping me keep focused and on track. They also gave me accountability.
The suggestions of my counselors led me to prioritize. Since I was stretched in different directions, I had to figure out what needed to be taken care of first. I couldn't do everything all at once.
When I knew the order of importance, I needed to break the tasks down into steps. Instead of looking at massiveness, I looked at pieces. By working this way, I was able to accomplish a lot and I made better use of my time.
My contract has now been reviewed, my promotions packet is completed, and I'm almost through with one story in plenty of time to meet my deadline. I still have to wait on a few e-mails, but for the most part, I am done.
Are you looking at your tasks instead of at Jesus? Ask for His help. Trust His direction. You will eventually see the light, the One, True Light, at the beginning, middle and end of the tunnel.
Monday, March 10, 2008
Four Generations
My grandmother is visiting from New Mexico, so Sunday afternoon we had a little get-together at my Mom's house. There were four generations there: my grandmother, my mom, my sister and I and our children. It was a very nice visit. My grandmother is such a loving and caring person. I miss having her nearby all the time.
Since I am considered the historian of the family, I brought a little tape recorder so I could continue to get my grandmother's accounts of her youth. One of the questions asked was about her dad, my great grandfather. We wanted to know what stood out about his character. There were several things she loved about him, but one point my grandmother mentioned was that he taught her and her sister to be a close family.
That trait has carried on through the generations. My Mom taught me, and I in turn, am teaching my kids, that family is very important. It takes on a greater significance when I was reminded that my great grandfather did not have any family. His mother died before he was married, and prior to that for reasons not really clear, he lived with several guardians. No wonder he wanted to make his home a wonderful and warm place for his children.
The book of Exodus records God telling the Israelites that He would visit "...the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth generation." Ex. 34:7 That is understandable since the consequences of our sins will be handed down to the generations that follow.
But what I took away from my time with my grandmother this weekend was that there are many good things that the generations pass down, too. In my case, one of those is love of family.
Have you thought about the good things your family has passed down? What will you pass on to your children and grandchildren?
Since I am considered the historian of the family, I brought a little tape recorder so I could continue to get my grandmother's accounts of her youth. One of the questions asked was about her dad, my great grandfather. We wanted to know what stood out about his character. There were several things she loved about him, but one point my grandmother mentioned was that he taught her and her sister to be a close family.
That trait has carried on through the generations. My Mom taught me, and I in turn, am teaching my kids, that family is very important. It takes on a greater significance when I was reminded that my great grandfather did not have any family. His mother died before he was married, and prior to that for reasons not really clear, he lived with several guardians. No wonder he wanted to make his home a wonderful and warm place for his children.
The book of Exodus records God telling the Israelites that He would visit "...the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children's children, unto the third and to the fourth generation." Ex. 34:7 That is understandable since the consequences of our sins will be handed down to the generations that follow.
But what I took away from my time with my grandmother this weekend was that there are many good things that the generations pass down, too. In my case, one of those is love of family.
Have you thought about the good things your family has passed down? What will you pass on to your children and grandchildren?
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Weekend Reflection
"What I want instead is your true thanks to God;
I want you to fulfill your vows to the Most High.
Trust Me in your times of trouble,
and I will rescue you,
and you will give Me glory."
Psalm 50:14-15
Friday, March 7, 2008
Splinters
While folding laundry the other day, I felt a little stab of pain on the tip of my right middle finger. I couldn't see anything, so I tried to ignore it. Some time later, I felt a twinge of pain again. A more indepth investigation showed me I had a little splinter in that finger.
Since I was trying to get some writing done before I had to pick up my son, I didn't want to waste my time trying to remove the splinter. Although that little piece of wood was not causing extreme pain, it was definitely an irritant.
After awhile, I couldn't take it anymore. I tried to pull the fragment out with my fingernails, but that was unsuccessful. Taking the tweezers, I made several attempts at extraction. I succeeded after about the twelfth time. I was amazed that such irritation could come from a 2 millimeter sliver of wood that I probably acquired when I was sweeping that morning.
Sin can be our irritant. Maybe it's buying a blouse behind your husband's back when the budget is tight, or spending too much time on the internet when you're supposed to be doing research for the boss. Even though these aren't "major" offenses, they still fall in the category of sin because deception and dishonesty are involved.
Unconfessed sin begins to irritate. It causes discomfort, and even disfiguration as we let the sin fester and infect. A pair of tweezers and an alcohol swab was my solution for the splinter. Only Jesus can successfully remove the sin from our lives and begin the process of healing.
Got a little sliver that's a bit uncomfortable to live with? Ask Jesus to forgive you and let Him make you whole again.
Since I was trying to get some writing done before I had to pick up my son, I didn't want to waste my time trying to remove the splinter. Although that little piece of wood was not causing extreme pain, it was definitely an irritant.
After awhile, I couldn't take it anymore. I tried to pull the fragment out with my fingernails, but that was unsuccessful. Taking the tweezers, I made several attempts at extraction. I succeeded after about the twelfth time. I was amazed that such irritation could come from a 2 millimeter sliver of wood that I probably acquired when I was sweeping that morning.
Sin can be our irritant. Maybe it's buying a blouse behind your husband's back when the budget is tight, or spending too much time on the internet when you're supposed to be doing research for the boss. Even though these aren't "major" offenses, they still fall in the category of sin because deception and dishonesty are involved.
Unconfessed sin begins to irritate. It causes discomfort, and even disfiguration as we let the sin fester and infect. A pair of tweezers and an alcohol swab was my solution for the splinter. Only Jesus can successfully remove the sin from our lives and begin the process of healing.
Got a little sliver that's a bit uncomfortable to live with? Ask Jesus to forgive you and let Him make you whole again.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Reruns
On Tuesdays, my oldest son gets out of school before lunchtime. We have a pretty good routine: we either pick up lunch or I make it, and then we sit and watch the "I Love Lucy" reruns for an hour on TV. We both enjoy the brilliant comedy antics of Lucille Ball. I love the fact that my son, who is 13, can laugh at the same silly situations that made me laugh at his age some 32 years ago.
One of the reasons I like my kids to watch classic reruns like "I Love Lucy" and "The Andy Griffith Show" is that they can see that times may change, but people don't. We all laugh and cry. We all experience joys and heartaches. I also want them to see a time when moral standards played a major role in people's lives. Good and evil did matter; and it still does today even if others aren't willing to play by the rules.
I want them also to see that we can laugh at life. We don't need to use bad words to make ourselves funny, and we don't need to take advantage of others in order to make ourselves look good.
We cannot and should not live in the past; but we can learn from it. I'm glad I'm taking the time to share what was valuable from my past with my kids.
One of the reasons I like my kids to watch classic reruns like "I Love Lucy" and "The Andy Griffith Show" is that they can see that times may change, but people don't. We all laugh and cry. We all experience joys and heartaches. I also want them to see a time when moral standards played a major role in people's lives. Good and evil did matter; and it still does today even if others aren't willing to play by the rules.
I want them also to see that we can laugh at life. We don't need to use bad words to make ourselves funny, and we don't need to take advantage of others in order to make ourselves look good.
We cannot and should not live in the past; but we can learn from it. I'm glad I'm taking the time to share what was valuable from my past with my kids.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Giving Him the Glory
God is so awesome. Despite the craziness of fighting my cold and trying to work out the promotional aspects of my new book contract, God has been opening up some great doors for me. I can't go into all the details since legal stuff prohibits me at the moment. I hope to share in a much later blog this journey from the acceptance of my manuscript to its publication. Don't worry. I'm taking mental notes.
My friends are a blessing from God. At church over the weekend I ran into a few of them. They were so eager to give me hugs, and that was before I told them about my contract! I know I have a few prayer warriors there who are ready and willing to lift me up to the Lord. Then there are the extra special friends who are willing to give of their time and energy to help, and to share Scripture and encouragements just at the right moment.
I musn't forget to thank the Lord for His blessings. He doesn't need my thanks, but by acknowledging Him, I am giving Him glory. It brings to mind the lesson found in Luke 17:11-19. Jesus was heading towards Jerusalem and came across ten lepers who asked for healing. After Jesus told them to go see the priests, the men were healed. But only one of them returned to thank Jesus and to loudly give glory to God, and that man was a foreigner. What happened to the other nine who had been giving the same blessings? The Bible doesn't say.
We take so much for granted because we have been tremendously blessed in this country. Don't be like the other nine men who were healed and failed to express their gratitude. Take the time to thank God for what He has done for you and to give Him the glory He so deserves.
My friends are a blessing from God. At church over the weekend I ran into a few of them. They were so eager to give me hugs, and that was before I told them about my contract! I know I have a few prayer warriors there who are ready and willing to lift me up to the Lord. Then there are the extra special friends who are willing to give of their time and energy to help, and to share Scripture and encouragements just at the right moment.
I musn't forget to thank the Lord for His blessings. He doesn't need my thanks, but by acknowledging Him, I am giving Him glory. It brings to mind the lesson found in Luke 17:11-19. Jesus was heading towards Jerusalem and came across ten lepers who asked for healing. After Jesus told them to go see the priests, the men were healed. But only one of them returned to thank Jesus and to loudly give glory to God, and that man was a foreigner. What happened to the other nine who had been giving the same blessings? The Bible doesn't say.
We take so much for granted because we have been tremendously blessed in this country. Don't be like the other nine men who were healed and failed to express their gratitude. Take the time to thank God for what He has done for you and to give Him the glory He so deserves.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Reality Check
My contract for my alphabet book came in the mail this past Friday. I was both excited and scared at the same time. As I glanced through the contract and paperwork, I couldn't help thinking, "This is it! It's finally happening."
The reality of my selling a book is coming in stages. First there was the initial shock of the publisher saying, "We like it." Now it's the excitement of the contract in my possession. What will my feelings be when I see the proofs and perhaps the artist's sketches? Will I faint when I have an actual copy in my hands? I feel like I'm about to go on a wild roller coaster ride.
Right now I'm wading through all the paperwork, especially the promotional parts. Since this is my first book, I feel a bit inadequate. I don't know any bigwigs in the media. I don't belong to any groups or organizations that could promote my book. Will the publisher shake its corporate head and wonder why did they choose me to begin with?
If I let all these doubts invade my mind, I'd just throw in the towel and hide under my covers. But there is one thing I know for sure. This is the road God has me on. He allowed this book to move forward and be accepted. He will be my promoter. Of course, I do have to supply the publisher with all the information I can, but God will be the one to stir people's hearts to read this book. He will draw their attention to it if He sees fit.
My friend gave me a great Scripture to reflect on. Psalm 34:4 says, "I sought the LORD, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears." God is in control of my life and my future. I don't need to worry or be afraid. I just need to trust Him and be open to the plans He has for me.
What is making you feel inadequate? What are you afraid of? The Lord wants to help encourage and strengthen you. Call out to Him and expect Him to answer you.
The reality of my selling a book is coming in stages. First there was the initial shock of the publisher saying, "We like it." Now it's the excitement of the contract in my possession. What will my feelings be when I see the proofs and perhaps the artist's sketches? Will I faint when I have an actual copy in my hands? I feel like I'm about to go on a wild roller coaster ride.
Right now I'm wading through all the paperwork, especially the promotional parts. Since this is my first book, I feel a bit inadequate. I don't know any bigwigs in the media. I don't belong to any groups or organizations that could promote my book. Will the publisher shake its corporate head and wonder why did they choose me to begin with?
If I let all these doubts invade my mind, I'd just throw in the towel and hide under my covers. But there is one thing I know for sure. This is the road God has me on. He allowed this book to move forward and be accepted. He will be my promoter. Of course, I do have to supply the publisher with all the information I can, but God will be the one to stir people's hearts to read this book. He will draw their attention to it if He sees fit.
My friend gave me a great Scripture to reflect on. Psalm 34:4 says, "I sought the LORD, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears." God is in control of my life and my future. I don't need to worry or be afraid. I just need to trust Him and be open to the plans He has for me.
What is making you feel inadequate? What are you afraid of? The Lord wants to help encourage and strengthen you. Call out to Him and expect Him to answer you.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Construction Zones
There are way too many construction zones going on in my town. Some roads are being closed, others redirected. School pick-ups zones are changing. Traffic is increasing and so is the impatience. It's all a big mess.
I can't avoid these construction areas because several of them happen to be near my children's schools. There will even be a two week period when the entire street in front of one school will be closed. I wonder how the administration is going to handle that.
The result of all this confusion and frustration is supposed to be better water mains. I'm also hoping for smooth roads when all the digging has been covered up and repaved. Only time will tell if the outcome was worth the mess.
Our lives are always under construction. As fallible human beings we are in desperate need of repair. Bad tempers, impatience, stubborness, and greed are just a few of the vices we need to reconstruct. We can try to be our own do-it-yourselfers, but we don't have the blueprints of our lives. There will always be something that wasn't done to spec or we failed to fix properly.
Only God can be our true Construction Supervisor. He knows exactly what needs to be dug up and replaced. He knows the parts that need fixing. All we have to do is trust Him with the work, even if it takes time and brings some inconvenience.
What is it in your life that could use a little fixing? Let God be the Chief Contractor of your Construction Zone.
I can't avoid these construction areas because several of them happen to be near my children's schools. There will even be a two week period when the entire street in front of one school will be closed. I wonder how the administration is going to handle that.
The result of all this confusion and frustration is supposed to be better water mains. I'm also hoping for smooth roads when all the digging has been covered up and repaved. Only time will tell if the outcome was worth the mess.
Our lives are always under construction. As fallible human beings we are in desperate need of repair. Bad tempers, impatience, stubborness, and greed are just a few of the vices we need to reconstruct. We can try to be our own do-it-yourselfers, but we don't have the blueprints of our lives. There will always be something that wasn't done to spec or we failed to fix properly.
Only God can be our true Construction Supervisor. He knows exactly what needs to be dug up and replaced. He knows the parts that need fixing. All we have to do is trust Him with the work, even if it takes time and brings some inconvenience.
What is it in your life that could use a little fixing? Let God be the Chief Contractor of your Construction Zone.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Weekend Reflection
"Then King David went in and sat before the LORD;
and he said: 'Who am I, O Lord God?
And what is my house,
that You have brought me this far?'"
2 Samuel 7:18
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