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April 30th, 2010
Every once in a while I clean my house-hard to believe. Recently, when that happened, I was looking through a book on my bedside table. I know-what does THAT have to do with cleaning? Nothing really; I just get sidetracked. This day I was glad I did because it would soon turn into a cool collision with God. The book I picked up to glance through is one I had once read so much that some of the pages are close to falling out. It is a book of daily inspirational readings written by W. Glyn Evans. Although it has remained on my little table, I had tucked it away in a small pile of books long ago. On this particular day, I leafed through it and stopped on the reading for April 5-don’t know why-maybe the title of the reading caught my eye: “Loving Our Loved Ones Properly”. As I read, I welled up with tears and was deeply moved by the bold-faced truth of what this author was writing. Let me share a piece of it with you.
“As a disciple of Jesus Christ I must come to terms with my family, my loved ones. My natural tendency is to become dependent upon them-upon my wife for physical comfort, my children for companionship. If I do this, I am going against everything that characterizes the discipled man. The key word is dependence. God has graciously given me a wife and children, but they must not be my dependence.
I must relate to my loved ones as Abraham related to his son Isaac. On Moriah, Abraham was willing to sacrifice his dearest possession. So I must consign my loved ones to the altar, I must sacrifice them, I must give them up. I must cut clean the lines of dependency forever.
To be dependent means to be vulnerable to tragedy. I have seen many of God’s children devastated because they built their lives on their loved ones, and then God called the loved ones home! I must always live, in a sense, as if God had already called my loved ones home. I must always place the shadow of the cross over their fair faces.
This does not mean loving my dear ones less, or enjoying them less. It simply means I cannot love them without putting Jesus between us. And it reserves the right for Him as the third party to control the relationship.” (Daily With the King by W. Glyn Evans)
This reading really wowed me because it has always been the way I have truly believed. I can connect completely with the importance of choosing this point of view. As I closed the book, I noticed that I had once upon a time written “April 5″ right inside the front of the book. I then realized that years ago, I had also ‘connected’ with this same reading.
Fast forward to a few days later. It’s dirt bike riding season! (For my son; NOT for me!) Darian asked me to take video to document the first day of him riding the Honda 250R that he just bought. I said ‘yes’ and attempted to look very excited. Actually, I am excited for him; it’s just that dirt bike riding holds such huge risks in this momma’s mind. As I ran the camera, following his every move, jump, and wheelie; I had to intentionally NOT add my own anxiety-filled commentary. I had to focus on keeping the camera focused instead of allowing it to shake with my longing to cringe. As I watched my son ride, I kept an open dialogue going with God. You know what He impressed upon me? He is my son’s Daddy-just as He is mine. He loves Darian more than I ever can-THAT seems impossible to me, knowing how much I love my son-and yet I absolutely know that it is true. And then, the April 5th reading came flooding through my being. What was the root of my fear and anxiety? Nothing changes the fact that my son has chosen a risk-filled hobby. (Why he didn’t take my advice to participate in competitive chess, I just can’t figure out!) What does change is my attitude toward it. God reminded me that I ‘laid each of my children on His altar’ at the moment of the gift of their births-and have revisited that many times. He reminded me that while I may not be comfortable with this choice that Darian is making, I cannot change this choice. What I can do is process through all that Darian is experiencing with him. And that is what we are doing. I shared with Darian my rediscovery of that April 5th reading and how God used it to bring me back to a much larger God-perspective. I told my son that he is so good at riding that bike. I told him that I believe he is careful, wise, and in control of all that he can be. Then we talked about some of the things he CANNOT control-but God can and will. We talked about accidents and death-these things happen of course. How beautiful to know that no matter how; no matter when; the death of a Christ follower is truly a promotion into the highest level of living with God! Ultimately, what could be better?! We do not know what we will face-even in the next moment; but God does, and He is ready and waiting to put into us whatever ‘arsenal’ of equipment we will need to handle it.
Do I still have moments of anxiety and cringing when I watch my talented son ride? YOU BET!! I just keep focusing on the fact that Daddy is watching him right along with me, and He knows all about each and every ride.You know, I really do believe that as much as my son is elated to ride and enjoying it so much, His heavenly Daddy is smiling and enjoying watching ‘our’ son even more! “Lord, help me to know and delight in Your Presence each moment that we watch Darian together.”
Thanks for reading,
Libby
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April 29th, 2010
This past weekend I went perusing through the clearance section in a local used bookstore and found an anthology of love letters. Actual letters written by people to their spouses, fiances, and so on. Some even a couple hundred of years old.
I had to pick it up and buy it. And after reading through the last couple days I have been amazed at the way people used to articulate their feelings. I lamented to my husband that he’d never written me a “love letter” and he reminded me that we’ve never been apart for more than a couple days in all the time we’ve been together! In the age of the internet, letters have nearly become obsolete. But emails, tweets, text messages, and facebook posts don’t come close to the kind of passion and beauty in the words written long ago.
I mean, who wouldn’t want something like this written to them?
“I cannot behold you without emotion; my heart still answers to your voice, my blood in my veins to your footsteps.”
“All will pass, except for my passion for you.”
“For me, to love is to love you.”
“Don’t you know everything I do is always done with you in mind. When I have proof of success this is simply my homage to you.”
“I should like to live at your feet and die in your arms.”
Think those words are pretty amazing? That they convey some kind of love that’s indescribable? How about these words?
I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen (Ephesians 3:16-21).
But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions-it is by grace you have been saved (Ephesians 2:4-5
The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness” (Jeremiah 31:3).
As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love (John 15:9).
Hmm. Seems to me I already have the greatest love letter ever written
Emily
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April 28th, 2010
Here are my friends Beth and Libby
and Libby and Dawn.
We have a blast doing radio together and sometimes it gets a little crazy
This is our friend Wilma, who has her own ideas of how radio should be done
And our Beth – who is always up for a challenge.
And me? I’m smart enough to stay behind the microphone and the camera!
Listen to Circle of Friends Radio at 10 am weekdays.
You never know what might be going on!
95.9 Canton www.thelight959.com
91.5 Columbus www.freedomfm.org
All for Him,
Missy
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April 27th, 2010
I was asked by our daughter’s college roommate to answer some questions she’d been given in class. After I got over the shock – and momentary depression – of being considered a candidate to answer questions on “Adult Development and Aging” (cough cough) I quickly began to formulate my response to each question in my mind. As I began to write things down I realized that not only was I helping Miss Laura out for a class but I was also in the midst of a blog-in-progress. I won’t post all of my responses here, but the following was my answer to her question of “would you be able to pass along any wisdom to me or to people just starting a career or a family?” – with just a few additions for the sake of this blog.
Wisdom for your generation: relationships matter more than we realize. Make sure you take time to honor those relationships closest to you. Too often they are the ones that get neglected! When you are young you are so invested in your work, paying your college debt and/or mortgage that you don’t fully realize how quickly time passes and all the “little moments” can’t be regained. While work IS important, and God’s word reminds us again and again just how important it is, we also need to take time to rest – we are created in His image and even He took time to rest!
I have been writing a weekly blog for the past year, it has helped me recognize what is good, strong, healthy growth in my life, and what is “fluff” and won’t really matter in the long run; it has also made me realize the importance of journaling. God told the children of Israel repeatedly to “write this down” and “teach it to your children”, He must have had a good reason why!
I wish that when I was your age I would have:
taken the time early on to learn what the Bible has to say about finances;
saved $100 each month for the first ten years;
realized how quickly my kids would grow;
realized that what is in my heart and mind is so much more important than the clothes I wear, the car I drive, the house I live in (and how it’s decorated);
realized that kids grow too fast to waste money on clothes that will make them look fashionable but force me to continue to work when I would rather be at home with them;
learned to set better boundaries with my friends, to be honest even when it was hard, and to continue to love when the going got tough instead of distancing myself.
I wish I had committed to the discipline of spiritual AND physical exercise on a daily basis. Spiritual health, physical health and emotional health go hand in hand!
I have learned much in 27 years of marriage and 24 years of parenting. Many of those lessons were learned thru mistakes that I made. I regret the stupid mistakes that affected my kids, yet I trust that they also received some good stuff along the way! My biggest regret is not getting serious about my relationship with Christ until after I was married and had kids.
I have learned that I’ve learned MORE from the tough times, (perhaps even the “stupid mistake” times) than I ever thought possible. I’ve learned that it’s ok to say, “I’m sorry”, “I was wrong” and “I need help”. I’ve learned that it’s ok to ask for advice. I’ve learned that as much as you love your spouse on your wedding day there will be times that you have to remind yourself why you got married! (And I think he might have had to remind himself too!) And I’ve learned my husband cannot read my mind!
I’ve learned that marriage is so much better when you remember you’re on the same team; marriage is so much better when you stop trying to change your spouse and begin praying “Lord, change me”: marriage requires honest communication.
I’ve learned that having a couple of friends ask you some tough questions each week helps you live life with greater focus, and helps get you back on track when you’ve misplaced your compass! Accountability is vital to healthy growth – physically, emotionally, and spiritually! When you don’t allow yourself to be accountable to someone it is easy to live as if you are accountable to no one.
I’ve learned that just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.
I’ve learned that it is impossible to give your kids too much love – but you can give them too much stuff!
I’ve learned that, just like potty training and tying shoes, a good work ethic needs to be taught; rarely does it happen without guidance.
I’ve learned that in regards to bad habits, more is caught than taught (and if I see a bad habit in my child the first place I need to look is probably in the mirror). I’ve learned that good habits unfortunately don’t take root as quickly as bad habits do!
I’ve learned that God’s word changes me from the inside out, and I’ve learned that even if I don’t completely understand it that is no excuse to not read it.I don’t completely understand the law of physics but I still depend on it!
I’ve learned to examine my activities carefully and to make sure it is something I want to give my time to. I’ve learned that if it is not something I want to give my time to and God has still led me to it He has a plan and a purpose that I simply cannot see. It is often in those circumstances that I have learned to trust Him more.
I’ve learned that prayer changes things, but most of all, prayer changes me.
I’ve learned to look for “fruit” to see if things are growing in a healthy manner – in my life, in our home, in the work that I do, and the relationships I am in.
I’ve learned that there are new things to learn each and every day!
Until next time.
Beth
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April 26th, 2010
“You should be the happiest woman in the world.”
My husband told me this recently. He meant that he wanted to do whatever it took to make me happy. Aside from the fact that it is not his job to make me happy or that that is a choice I can only make for myself, I was struck with the thought that he was right! I should be the happiest woman in the world!
Paul told the Ephesians, “I have everything I need” (4:18) and you know what? So do I! Christ has promised us abundant life (John 10:10) and that is exactly what He has given me.
I am the most blessed among women – God has given me abundant mercy and grace and poured out His love to me. I truly am ‘lacking nothing’. What more could I want? Psalm 16:5 says, “the Lord is all I need. He takes care of me.”
Are you the happiest woman in the world?
All for Him,
Missy
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April 23rd, 2010
Invitations
The other day I paused while walking by the kitchen counter and picked up 3 separate wedding invitations and studied them. I was thinking how each of them had been uniquely created to fit each of the soon-to-be bride’s tastes.
One of the invitations had a little saying. “Love isn’t love ’till you give it away.” The other two even more simple in their styles, one with a little bow and the invitation itself folded in a manner that is pleasing to the eye. The third one really had no fuss to it. Just the invitation, who, where, and when, were all simply stated and a purple sticky note attached asking if Bert and I would serve coffee to the “youth” at dinner time. (All are invitations to Amish weddings.)
I pondered upon each invitation that day and since then have been reflecting on other invitations we receive periodically over a year’s time. Graduation, Baby Shower, Bridal Shower, Birthday party invitations, and oh, one can’t forget the anticipated summer picnics and reunions.
With anticipation we open most invitations and look forward to what each one has to offer inside. The art, the words, the meaning, and especially who the honored one is being celebrated. But as I’ve been thinking about these invitations I was thinking of all the other invitations I may miss due to not opening my Bible more often or when I do it may be in a more hurried manner and I miss seeing what kinds of invitations are in there for me to anticipate and participate in every day.
Let’s see what a couple of those invitations could look like.
Matthew 11: 28-30
Imagine a card in a sage-green background color – a picture of a lush, green, field filled with wildflowers is overlaying the background. The sunshine is spilling out over the page and a beautiful, flourishing forest is on one side with a little brook passing by the side of the forest and as a place of quiet respite from the sun, a bench is place by the rippling brook and written in a soothing script is the following message:
COME AS YOU ARE PARTY!
You, my child, are invited this day to come, because, you have labored for far too long. The burdens you carry are too heavy, please meet me and I will give you what you need. Come join me and I will teach you how to rest. I will take your burdens and I promise to be gentle with you while we are in transition because I know that you feel responsible for the burdens you carry. For this, I love you dearly and I want to care for you, you have been a faithful and a true servant, but you have carried too much, for far too long. Come this day and together we will find rest for your soul and I promise when our moment together is over you will feel lightness and freshness in your soul. You will be renewed and rejuvenated and you will feel like you can do life again with a renewed zeal and zest.
Yours Truly and Always,
Jesus
Or what about this kind of invitation?
Matthew 6: 25-34
“But seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6: 33 NKJ
Can you imagine what this invitation would look like in art and words? I can see the words “SEEK ME” scripted out over the page – a very commanding invitation and then the promise of meeting my needs by the artwork nestled in amongst the letters. There would likely be some items of clothing lying on a bed of lilies. The food art would probably be a Martha Stewart-esque picnic table with a bountiful summer-y meal, the picture implying that I would always be full and satisfied. In one corner of this invitation might be a nice car, one that is practical for my needs. I can see a gas card with dollar signs on it in the artwork by the car so I would get the gist that even the money for gas would be provided for.
For each individual there is a custom invitation because in some cases our needs differ. Someone may have a sickly child who needs a special machine and that machine would be on the invitation. Another’s mortgage bill would be pictured because the person is out of a job and God promises He will provide as we seek His kingdom.
Imaginations could go on all day, but the real point is that the invitation is to Seek Him first and all these things will be added to you.
These and many more invitations lie within the pages of the Bible and it is my job to find those invitations and make them personal for myself. They don’t come in the mail with a postage stamp attached. They only come as I make time to have a personal relationship with the Lord, my God. The before-mentioned wedding invitations are exclusive for only a certain group of people the brides and grooms have invited to their respective weddings, however, the invitations in the Holy Bible are inclusive. They include each one of us and they are there for each individual to accept as we read them and understand what each invitation is.
It would be interesting, exciting, and inspiring to read what other kinds of invitations you, the reader, has accepted as you’ve had your time with God. Please share in the comments section if you wish to. I look forward to hearing from you!
Because of Him!
Lue
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April 22nd, 2010
Over the weekend I had what has become one of my most favorite experiences every year, attending a worship service with Hillsong United as the leaders. In fact, it’s so worth attending their once a year U.S. tour that we’ve driven to Nashville and Chicago just to be there.
Technically, it’s classified as a concert, and you have to have a ticket to get in, but trust me, if you’ve ever been you know that there is no performance, just people singing their lungs and hearts out to the only One who is worth singing to and about.
I think one of the most amazing things about worshipping the God we serve is that He gives us joy in doing so. He’s relational, He’s given us emotions, and when we worship Him, He blesses us in return. How incredible is that? We don’t have to worship out of duty or a ritual that has to be performed, but we can worship Him out of love.
The arena was sold out – at least 12,000 people engaged in worship for two and a half hours. And as I looked around and saw these thousands of people pouring out their hearts, singing words such as “Hosanna in the highest” or “All I need is You Lord” or “Our hearts they cry be glorified, be lifted high above all things” all I could think was that it simply wasn’t enough. It didn’t even come close to what He deserves, of what He is so worthy of.
It wasn’t nearly enough.
So as I thought about that I started getting really excited about heaven. I don’t know if we’ll be singing in English or a language I’ve never heard before. I don’t know if we’ll be singing treasured hymns or rocking out with Hillsong or humming with David and his harp. I don’t know what it will look like or sound like, but I know it will be praise and adoration for our God. Forever. One day we will be able to attempt to bring Him all the glory He is due for all of eternity. The music won’t stop, the lights won’t go down, the crowds won’t disperse. Does it excite you? Does it give you goosebumps? Because as I’m sitting here I just keep thinking how I can’t wait to get there.
So that I can stand, as Hillsong sings, with arms high and heart abandoned, in awe of the One who gave it all.
Emily
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April 21st, 2010
Recently our kids brought their dogs, Charlie and Lucy, to visit us. They brought along a neat invention called an ‘invisible fence’. Its a small plug-in-the wall portable unit that works with shock collars. All of that sounds a little mean until you realize that its more of a tingle that stops the dogs from crossing an invisible barrier. The nice thing is that they get used to this ‘fence’ and the kids can take it anywhere and have a safe place to let their dogs out without worrying about them wandering off.
Our backyard is on a hill and the sight of all that space to run was too much for my son-in-law, he wanted to let the dogs go free so he took off their collars.
It took a lot of coaxing, but finally Charlie followed him up the hill. Lucy,however, was much more reluctant.
Eventually, she risked crossing the line and when the two dogs finally realized they were free, they raced up and down the field. They were having such a good time with all that freedom they wouldn’t come when he called to them. In fact, Eric had to physically catch them, pick them up and bring them back to the porch and put their collars back on.
Collars on, collars off, collars on – all this was a bit of confusion for Lucy and she raced beyond the invisible barrier across the hill. Fortunately, no yelping – no shock; her battery in her collar had died. Unfortunately, she was able to reach the two neighboring dogs who came over to check out what was going on.
It shouldn’t have happened – I saw her crouch in submission – but the big lab must have taken exception to Lucy’s friendliness with the Beagle and he took a bite out of her nose. Now we had yelping and dogs barking and scurrying – holding poor Lucy with a bleeding nose and trying to hang onto Charlie so he wouldn’t get into the fray.
When it all died down and we had the dogs all in their place and Lucy’s nose mopped up and the damage assessed – except for Lucy’s sore nose, everybody was okay.
Here’s a lesson for us. God’s boundaries – even ones that seem to keep us from ‘the good stuff’ are there for a reason. He gives us rules and principles to live by – that others may perceive as being ‘strict’ or even ‘old fashioned’ – but they are for our good.
God is looking out for us. He is for us! He loves us and has a plan for our good – We need to trust those boundaries – those things in His word that don’t always make sense to us – why we should or shouldn’t do something.
When we think we might have a better plan – better think again!
Obedience keeps us out of trouble -and staying in the boundaries will keep our noses from getting bit.
All for Him,
Missy
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April 20th, 2010
Some may call it “coincidence” I prefer to call it a “God moment”.
Did you notice we had one just last week on our website?
If you clicked on the Circle of Friends website last Tuesday, April 13, you found my weekly blog, referencing Matthew 13 (the parable of the seed/soil) and Galatians 5 (the fruit of the Spirit). Then if you clicked on the Daily Devotional link you found my friend Janet’s blog – referencing Matthew 13 and ending with a prayer praising God for the fruit He produces in our lives.
I love it when that happens!
I wonder if God chuckled as He watched both of us develop our weekly contributions.
The best part is that Janet usually posts on a Monday, but her computer was giving her fits – so her devotional posted Tuesday instead. TeeHee. I wonder if God ever says TeeHee – probably not. But since we are created in His image I know for sure that He has a sense of humor. And I really do believe He got a chuckle out of that one!
I’ve enjoyed other God moments.
One of my favorites happened as I was leaving a Monday morning prayer group. The group was small that day, just me and my friend Shelly. We prayed for the school kids as we do every Monday morning. As I drove away I had a vision of two little girls playing with a tricycle, one was probably two years old at the time, the other perhaps three, one was named Shelly Bea, the other Beth Ann, their parents were friends.
Do you suppose God smiled when He saw us playing with that tricycle way back in the early 1960′s? Do you suppose He looked ahead to the school year of 2009-2010 and said “For I know the plans I have for those two”. That thought doesn’t make me chuckle, it makes me cry – tears of joy. Our parents didn’t know that their friendship would transcend the decades. They had no idea that those two little girls of theirs, little girls that shared a tricycle and a love for singing, would someday share a passion for prayer. I even messaged Shelly that morning with those very words “do you think God looked at us as we played when we were little girls and said, “For I know the plans I have those two”?
And so I don’t think it was a coincidence when, after I left the Circle of Friends website last Tuesday, I logged onto my facebook account, and right there on my home page was a post from my friend Shelly, “For I know the plans I have for you” declares the Lord” (Jeremiah 29:11). Oh how I love those God moments!
Until next time.
Beth
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April 19th, 2010
Over the weekend my family went to Canton to do some shopping. I am able to say ‘family’ because our son went along as well, and he went WILLINGLY. How does THAT happen? Especially when he claims that he breaks out in hives and can’t breathe when we walk into Kohls. (He associates Kohls with CLOTHES shopping-yuck!) This trip, however, was very different for us. This trip was all about ELECTRONICS-a laptop and wireless router. Okay, we also picked up a much needed dehumidifier. I got excited about that purchase! Now, here is a very cool part of our trip. We had researched all of these items for quite some time and were now in a financial position to be able to make the purchases. The laptop of choice was now on sale, and we were armed and ready. When we got to the store, we discovered that the laptop was discounted an additional $110.00! Truly this was the perfect choice for us. We decided to have the famed Geek Squad install everything that we needed-for an additional cost, of course; but it was certainly worth it to us. However, they said it would take 24 hours to do so. That was okay with us except that we would need to make another trip to Canton simply to pick up the computer-didn’t like that! That ‘sweet Geek’ went to start the paperwork and found that the store had ONE of those laptops that had already had all of the installations recently done; so we got to take it home with us right away-sweet! We walked out of that store feeling amazingly good about our purchases and thanked God right there in the parking lot for His guidance and provision. Now it was time to eat-that’s always a great part of a trip anywhere.
We headed to a nearby Wendy’s, and each of us got one of the current $2.99 value meals. (We are all such a cheap date!) One of the things that we talked about was how good it feels to know that you waited to make a purchase (or two!) until just the right time. That is such a hard thing to do! As we ate and talked I kept observing the team of employees as they served both the customers and one another. They really did such a fine job. I loved watching them as they worked behind the scenes, did clean up duty, opened doors for moms with babies, smiled, and exhibited great courtesy and politeness, even to one another. They were all so young, including the manager. I felt as if I was a proud mom watching them. And then (my family KNEW this was coming), I just had to tell them. Do you know the joy that comes from letting someone know how much you notice and appreciate how well they are doing their job? I love to see the looks on strangers’ faces when they are sincerely affirmed. It is as if that kind of encouragement acts like a ‘makeover’ for them. Their smiles become even larger; their eyes more bright; and their already fine treatment of the customers becomes even finer! As I walked out the door I smiled and waved and fully expected the rest of their night to be just a bit sweeter-even if rough times were yet to come. Sincere and intentional encouragement is just the right tool for helping someone to glide a bit more smoothly through those rough spots.
When Mike, Darian, and I went to Florida over spring break-with about 180 high school band and choir students(!)-we took them all to Ron Jon’s Surf Shop. Can you imagine that many students shopping in one place?! The students were so great, but that scenario holds much potential for STRESS on the part of the employees. I had the privilege of observing one young man who worked diligently, kindly, and tirelessly as he served one student after another-after another, after another, and you get the picture! Chris did an amazing job, and as I watched him I again remember feeling like a proud mom. So-I just had to tell him what I thought. The look on his face was priceless. He was like a little child who had just been told he had won a lifetime supply of candy for being the best kid in the world! As I kept making my way throughout the store keeping track of students here and there, my peripheral vision would catch a glimpse of Chris looking at me and smiling-and then continuing to serve others with such genuine kindness, which I do believe had grown even more! Again, that is what sincere encouragement will do for another. Encouragement acts as ‘fuel’, and it enables the ‘encouraged’ to then become the ‘encourager’ in the lives of others.
Please, please know that I am NOT telling you any of this to glorify myself or my efforts. God has grown this desire to be an encourager/affirmer within me. It hasn’t always come easily-and still doesn’t many times. I just know how important encouragement and affirmation are and how drawn I am to people who should be the receivers of such. (Honestly though, I can be so guilty of NOT being an encourager/affirmer of others! I could write a whole book about that!) And so I will close by encouraging YOU to take a risk-encourage and affirm someone today. “Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” –1 Thess. 5:11
Thanks for reading,
Libby
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April 16th, 2010
At my husband’s pastoral ordination, one of the pastor’s prayed for him to have ‘the hide of a rhinoceros.’
Are you familiar with this phrase? It’s always kind of fascinated me. People use it to suggest having ‘thick skin’, something impenetrable, armor-like.
In fact, a rhinoceros’s hide is thick.
Some species of rhinos even have what looks like armor plating.
It’s actually just folds of their heavy, leather-like skin.
Their hide has actually been used in making shields and armor.
Funny enough, this skin is quite sensitive to insects and sunburn. That’s why they roll in the mud.
They also have a unique relationship with a species of birds known as tickbirds. These birds attach themselves to the rhino’s backs and at first glance might seem to be pests and an irritation to the rhinos.
But there is a great benefit and advantage to consider. These birds eat the parasites from the rhinoceros’ hide. They also alert them of any nearby predators with squawks and shrieks.
I wonder if some of the things that irritate and annoy us (generally people!) don’t have some benefit and advantage in our lives as well. If we’re praying for patience and God brings someone into our lives that is trying and difficult – has He not answered our prayer? So many character traits we need can be learned from the ‘tickbirds’ in our lives.
The trick is, we need to be like the rhino and recognize that the irritating nipping and squawking of others can often be to used to further our maturity in our walk with Christ.
Paul says in Ephesians 4:1-3 “I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with one another in love.”
And the benefit? Keep reading to verse 13: “till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect (this means mature) man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ”
What’s a few tickbirds compared to that?
All for Him,
Missy
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April 15th, 2010
I came into work this morning and found that my headphones had been taken off my desk. Stolen, likely by the cleaning crew. I mean, they’re only ten bucks, and easily replaced, but it means a day without my IPod, and that can make for a long day.
So I started plotting.
What can I leave behind for them as revenge? Chewed gum for them to pick up? Poke holes in my trash bag and dump liquid in there before I leave? Nasty notes?
They stole from me!! The nerve!!
A couple years ago as I was moving from my brother’s home to an apartment I had all my CDs loaded up in plastic bags in my back seat. No air conditioning in my car meant the windows got rolled down. I took a load up to my third story apartment and when I came back down all my CDs were missing. Every last one of them.
The only solace I had was that whoever took them was probably disappointed by my collection and probably had no clue who Steven Curtis Chapman or Point of Grace was. Which also meant they probably sold them online or something. Or threw them away.
I had so much money invested in those.
But seriously, who are these people that steal stuff? My stuff? What kind of person is it that takes things that belong to someone else?
A person just like me. You see, the only difference between me and someone like that is that I have Jesus. My heart is just as evil. But I’ve allowed Christ to come in and make it clean. And He’s the only one who can make it clean. It’s His saving grace, His amazing love, that prompts me to give instead of take. It’s nothing within myself.
Paul explains it so well in 1 Timothy 1:12-17.
I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that He considered me faithful, appointing me to His service. Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.
Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners-of whom I am the worst. But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display His unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.
If Christ can show unlimited patience on those who act in ignorance and unbelief, I think I can handle buying a new set of headphones.
Emily
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April 14th, 2010
Considering now, then, and all the travels in between:
They say the road is straight, but I’ve found it isn’t steady. They say the path is lit, but I walk with blind feet. I’ve heard the Way is narrow, and to that I can attest. And if He says His yoke is easy, then I’m carrying something else. But the gravity of unnameable burdens is negated by the flight of my hope, and the fierce reality of “what is” will always be eclipsed by “What is promised to come.”
In other words: while this waiting room is in orbit, I’ll just keep trying to revolve around the Son.
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April 13th, 2010
Recently I have had the opportunity to observe two young men who are going thru much the same situation. These young men have no contact with each other, while they may have met once upon a time they probably have no idea that they are presently experiencing similar life issues.
It has been so intriguing to me to watch the way each has handled their situation.
The first young man has chosen to seek wise counsel. He turned to those whose wisdom he respects and asked, “What would you advise me to do?” He has followed the advice that was given, recognizing that it may or may not resolve the situation that brought him to this place, but knowing that no matter what it will equip him to handle things better in the future.
The second young man’s response has been a bit different, more of a “fix it or forget it” response.
Of course both situations remind me of the “manure moments” of life!
And whenever I see those “manure moments” I have to think about the potential for great fruit to be harvested – but only if we allow that stinky stuff to do what it can do!
If you’re new to this blog you’re probably wondering what a “manure moment” is.
They are those times in life when you feel like you’ve had a pile of “manure” (the Thesaurus says: dung, compost, muck, fertilizer, droppings – yup that pretty much sums it up!) dumped into your life, and it stinks! (see Confessions of A Peace Lover, April 7, 2009) Our natural instinct is to get away from it or get rid of it! But time and time again I have seen how God uses those moments of life that we wouldn’t choose – the times that really stink – to grow us into the person that He desires us to be!
A year ago when I wrote on this subject I referenced Matthew 13, the Parable of the Seed (or of the soil, depending on how you look at it), it will be worth your while to take time to read thru that scripture again. Ask yourself “what is the condition of the soil of my soul?” And remember, it is important to be honest with yourself!
Today as I ponder “manure moments” I find myself looking at Galatians 5, we are shown in that passage what kind of fruit will be grown in our lives when we allow the power of the Holy Spirit to work in our lives and in the soil of our hearts. Soil that is well tended and fertilized has the potential for an amazing harvest!
But first the manure/fertilizer has to be worked into the soil. A farmer will tell you this is done either by rain softening the ground and making it able to receive it, or by a tool that is designed to break up the soil and make it ready to absorb the fertilizer – and even then the rain must come to complete the work.
Both require the manure to be present in order for the soil to benefit. If the farmer never moves the manure from the barnyard into the field the soil will not benefit and crop yield will be affected. On a smaller scale, if a gardener never fertilizes the soil in the garden the garden won’t produce as well. And if the person who simply likes to grow some pretty flowers doesn’t take care of the soil the flowers will never reach their potential for growth and beauty (yes, I am speaking from experience here!).
So could it be that “manure moments” are necessary in our lives to help us produce beautiful blossoms and strong, healthy, tasty, fruit? Could it be that our tears are the part of the process too? Are they the necessary “rain” that soaks our soil and allows the “fertilizer” to be absorbed into our soul? I’m thinkin’ yes!
The next time you find yourself in that place where you’re saying “this STINKS!!!” stop and ask God to help you remember that He is at work, even when we can’t see beyond the pile that has been dumped on us; even when the smell is making our eyes tear up; even when we don’t understand WHY it has happened. Ask Him to point you in the right direction, to seek the right tools. Ask Him to cultivate your heart to be able to receive and benefit from this stuff that stinks! The Holy Spirit at work in our lives has the potential to soften the soul of our hearts and make it ready and able to produce some amazing stuff!
Life happens, and it doesn’t always happen in the manner or timing that we would choose. By turning to God in prayer, surrendering the situation that we wouldn’t have chosen, allowing Him to work in all things – in every area – of our lives, and trusting Him for the outcome, the “manure moments” will be God directed to do the work that needs to be done in our lives in order to grow the fruit that He desires to see our lives produce!
Galatians 5:22-23 in the Message says it beautifully: “But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard – things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.”
Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control; tasty fruit indeed!
Until next time.
Beth
PS – Happy Birthday to my big brother!
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April 12th, 2010
Another birthday has come and gone-but who’s counting?! Honestly, it took the texting of friends’ “happy birthday!” to remind me of the occasion. Even when my daughter called me to say “happy birthday”, I was again reminded that I had not given it much thought before or during the ‘special’ day. For me, it is a day just like any other, and that’s the way I like it. I truly don’t want any extra or special attention simply because it is my birthday. After all, EVERYBODY has a birthday. Nobody did anything special to create or to deserve this special day. Actually, for me, THOSE thoughts are the very things that make expressions of “happy birthday” so special. Knowing that our birthdays are certainly something over which we had no control, and every person shares this event at some point in each year; I choose the perspective of “I am saying ‘happy birthday’ to you because I want you to know how glad I am that you were born. I am blessed to have you as part of my life, and I want you to know it. I am so thankful for you.” I hope I don’t express these thoughts (in a variety of ways) ONLY on someone’s anniversary of their birth, but throughout the year as well. I also hope that I make my previously stated perspective of ‘thankfulness’ for that person’s birthday very clear to them. Perspective is always so important!
I was reminded of this as my daughters and I were talking about a birthday gift that my husband gave to me many years ago. It was a book entitled “Lord, Change Me!” by Evelyn Christenson. Now, may I ask you to imagine how I FELT like responding to a book by that title?! “LORD, CHANGE ME!” How dare my husband buy me a book-on my birthday-without consulting me first-that speaks of ME needing to be changed! I was ticked!! Thankfully (only by the grace of God!), I did not react out of my state of ‘ticked-ed-ness’. (I know, that’s not a word, but it works for me.) I did, however; after some deep breaths, some S-O-S prayers, and a bit of time; talk with Mike about how I felt. What was he trying to tell me with that particular book choice? Is there a problem with me? I didn’t feel as if he was affirming me on my birthday at all. What’s going on here?! Are you ready for his response? He really didn’t pay much attention to the TITLE. He paid attention to the AUTHOR. He explained further. At that time I had recently completed a book study by the same author and had absolutely LOVED it. I had shared much of it with him and how much the study meant to me. I had also shared how much I had learned from Evelyn. And so, THAT was his ‘take away’ from our conversations. He tucked the ‘author’ information away and chose to surprise me with what he perceived as just the right gift for my birthday. He was excited to be able to give me what he thought was a gift with a very personal touch.
The problem was that of perspective. I considered the title of the book while he considered the author. I felt as if he was attempting to find a way to tell me that I desperately needed to change (which I’m sure I did, but that wasn’t his point!); he was simply choosing a gift that he felt would mean so much to me because of my love of this author’s work. After talking through this whole ordeal, I realized he had given me an even greater gift-the gift of listening well and then saving that information for just the right time with which to surprise me. Had we NOT talked through this, I would have never known our difference in perspectives that day. THAT would have been potentially tragic to our relationship.
Since then, there have been MANY times when our perspectives have differed. I have thought “is he that dense that he is just not getting my message?!” And then I am reminded that he could certainly have the same thoughts toward me. We have different brains; different minds; different families of origin; different life experiences. Not just he and I, but ALL of us. And ALL of that makes a difference regarding our perspective. I must remind myself as I remind others: stop; think; consider the perspective of another so that we may learn from one another instead of being so easily offended by one another.
Thanks for reading,
Libby
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April 9th, 2010
Several weeks ago I talked about success but today I’m feeling philosophical about failure.
How do you define ‘failure’? Is failure sin? I’m sure (continuing in) sin is failure- yet are any of us without sin? We can’t be perfect here on earth so if we sin, as we do everyday, does that mean we live defeated lives because we sin? We strive to be like Christ – we aim to please God – yet sin is there and will always be there with our old nature. Have we ‘failed’ before we’ve begun?
I don’t think failure is sin – unless we fall into an apostasy (ie – “abandonment of a previous loyalty” or “renunciation of a religious faith”) or become an apostate in our spiritual lives. If we cease to strive to be Christ-like, if we cease to move forward and grow – if we cease to allow God to change and mold us – that is failure.
Each day we live we make a hash of something – we fail to speak up when we should, we fail to keep silent, we fail to be kind and patient in trying circumstances, we fail to be joyful – we ‘fail’ to be free from anxiety and worry.
As we grow from childhood to adulthood we try – and fail – many tests. I’ve taken ballet lessons, but I’m no dancer. I majored in art in college, but I’m not an artist. I’ve studied French (a total of eight years of it) but guess what? I can’t speak French (and lost whatever understanding I might at one time have had of it). These and so many more things I’ve attempted – and ‘failed’. Is this how we define failure?
The only failure is not to do the best that is in you – yet we can fail at that, too, can’t we? I think the only failure is in giving up – is giving in – is not allowing God to finish the good work He has begun in us (Phil. 1:6).
Our mistakes may be massive (with far reaching consequences) or minute (with slight irritations) but there is a world of difference between a ‘mistake’ and ‘failure’. Mistakes are a daily part of life – a part of our sin nature. Perfection just isn’t part of the Christian walk – yet. And though we strive to be perfect it is unattainable. I’m sure God never set a goal for us that was already mapped out as a ‘failure’. God Himself is perfect. To be like Christ we must be perfect, yet we won’t reach that goal ’til we see Him. If we have expectations of perfection – they are more than unrealistic – they are impossible!
That’s the battle of the old nature and the new. Paul talks about it in Romans 7. “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me. I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out“(v 15-18).
So, I say with Paul, what a wretch I am – who will rescue me? -
“Thanks be to God-through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (v 25).
All for Him,
Missy
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April 8th, 2010
I am a terrible driver.
I have to apologize because I’m pretty sure I’m the reason there are stereotypes about women drivers. I don’t even avoid admitting it anymore. It’s a pretty well known fact that I am not the most trustworthy person behind a wheel.
I used to be a lead foot, but thankfully driving in a city where there’s a cop on every road has fixed that problem. Now it’s just that I get extremely bored while driving and it doesn’t take a whole lot to distract me. That, and I think I have a perception problem, which is probably also why I walk into things.
Two years ago we let a couple from our church borrow my husband’s car. While using it, they ended up backing into it with their other car and it got a little banged up. So my husband and I went to drop off his car to get it repaired. And where we took it was in the middle of nowhere, somewhere I had definitely never been before. I was following Eric, and I didn’t have my cell phone, and he was going a lot faster than what I felt comfortable with. He apparently didn’t know where he was going either, because he turned around in a gravel road and took off again. So I did the same, and as I was pulling forward I heard that horrific crunching and scraping sound that only a car can make when it hits something. I caught a glimpse of a half broken off wooden post in the rear view mirror and watched as my husband got further out of view. Without my phone I had no choice but to follow.
Not only did we arrive at the repair shop with two dented cars, my husband didn’t even know about it! And when I told him, he pointed out that it probably wasn’t a random wooden post by a field and a gravel road, it was probably someone’s mailbox.
We’ve all heard the metaphors of life being a road and being in the driver’s seat. The road takes twists and turns and ups and downs, and there’s construction, traffic jams, speed limits and so on. But no one ever mentions the mailboxes.
No one ever mentions the damage you can do to others when you’re too focused on what you need to accomplish that you can’t slow down enough to pay attention to what’s around you.
Because I know I’ve definitely gotten too caught up in where I was going, worried if I knew the way and if I would make it there on time that it’s caused me to be a little careless when it comes to other people.
Maybe it’s time I watch where I was going.
Emily
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April 7th, 2010
To my Father in heaven- as you sit on your throne, as you dwell in my heart, and as you stand outside of time:
I want to thank You for this peace. You have given me so much understanding, yet no measure of eloquence or wisdom can help me describe it. You are just too beyond me!
Whatever you do with me you will do for your glory. That is so much more than enough.
So here is my body, here is my heart, here is my life, my trust, my hope, my purpose- here is everything I thought belonged to me.
Take it, and reign.
Em
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April 6th, 2010
Happy Spring! Yes, I know I’m two weeks late on this proclamation but I’m just now catching up with all that has happened since spring began, so, once again, please allow me to say Happy Spring!
Since the first day of spring we have had much going on at our house! We’ve celebrated two birthdays, and one BIRTH day (I have another sweet little nephew!), watched five basketball games, colored five dozen Easter eggs, hosted two birthday parties – the family party with adults and kids invited was just a little quieter than the one with eight 12 year old girls in attendance! There have been four haircut appointments, two dentist appointments, two doctor appointments, a couple church activities and a sports banquet to attend. We’ve had all five of our kids home for a few days and celebrated Easter at church and with a family dinner. In my work as a bookkeeper the second quarter of 2010 has officially began, the kids are headed back to school after spring break, yes spring is officially here. And the joy of living life in the midst of a growing family is springing forth as well!
While the past two weeks have had some extra activities added to them I continued to have the privilege of praying with several groups of prayer warriors as I do each week. These are sweet times of intentional coming together to lift our praises and concerns to the One who is, was, and always will be!
Honestly, sometimes it would be quite easy to say “oh there are others who can pray” and free up a couple of hours in my week. And yet each time I come away from these groups with a sense of peace and purpose. Prayer, corporately and individually, will refocus our thoughts, give direction to our days, purpose to our lives and will calm our hearts just by coming into His presence. Intentional time spent with God is time well spent!
May I ask you something? Something rather personal? Something that you may think is really none of my business?
Do you take, are you taking, are you making, time for prayer? Are you setting aside time to talk to God? An intentional time in your day to stop and lift your praises and your concerns to the One who created you, knows the plans He has for you, and loves you so much He sent His son to die for you?
The evil one will do all that he can to keep you from prayer. He doesn’t care if you talk ABOUT God, just as long as he can keep you too busy to talk TO God.
An quite frankly, if we are too busy to pray we are too busy indeed.
Until next time.
Beth
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April 5th, 2010
I tried something unusual the other day. Bubblegum fudge. It was surprisingly good. At least for the small sample I tried.
When I was a kid I loved bubblegum.
Bazoooka was my favorite.
Mostly because of the comics, but also because they made the best bubbles.
The soft kind was no good – not enough consistency for the bigger bubbles.
I could blow a bubble as big as my head!
The problem, of course, was knowing when to stop
so it wouldn’t pop in my face.
The smaller bubbles were easy to handle – especially when the gum still had some resiliency. You could use the gum to stick to itself and mostly it lifted right off your skin. But the big bubbles – those stretched so thin that it was harder to remove. More than once I had to have a chunk cut out of my hair. I often spent a week or more scrubbing at the sticky residue left by one of my mishaps.
I’ve often used this word picture to describe shame (which is not the same as godly sorrow that leads to repentance – this ‘shame’ is a false guilt that blames, criticizes and declares us ‘unworthy’ and decries the blood Christ shed for us). Imagine blowing a bubble as big as your entire body and having it pop all over you. Shame sticks to us like that. it’s almost impossible to get rid of –
There are other sticky ‘residues’ in our lives that are equally hard to get rid of – anger, jealousy, bitterness, fear, worry, anxiety, discontentment. Just like bubblegum, if we chew on these things and roll them around in our minds, like popping a bubble they can end up stuck all over us.
Ephesians 4, verses 31and 32 tell us to clean up our act. The Amplified Bible puts it this way, “Let all bitterness and indignation and wrath (passion, rage, bad temper) and resentment (anger, animosity) and quarreling (brawling, clamor, contention) and slander (evil-speaking, abusive or blasphemous language) be banished from you, with all malice (spite, ill will, or baseness of any kind).
And become useful and helpful and kind to one another, tenderhearted (compassionate, understanding, loving-hearted), forgiving one another [readily and freely], as God in Christ forgave you.”
Hmmmh.No more bubbles for me.
All for Him,
Missy
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April 2nd, 2010
It’s funny how you think you know what you want out of life. I was a young mother with two active boys and I was working hard to get in shape and had just gotten down to my before-babies weight. I ‘wasn’t ready’ for another baby. I felt that way until the instant I saw the positive pregnancy test. Another baby? Oh yes!
Twenty-four years ago today my little girl was born. I’ve always teased her that her dad was ‘out to lunch’ when she was born (and he was – he missed her actual birth and so did the doctor!) but I have always assured her that I’ve been there every moment for her.
I haven’t of course. I’ve messed up so many times I couldn’t begin to count them. But I’ve wanted to be there for her, longed for her to become more than I am. Giving her the best of what I had to offer – as little as that seems – but most of all to see her love and follow God with all her heart.
As I’ve reminisced over this last week, looking at pictures and thinking about that precious time in our lives of having this bundle of pink frills and bows (this was back in the days you didn’t find out what you were having beforehand and after three boys, she was a definite surprise!), thinking of all the birthdays that have passed and the years of change and growth and maturity, I noticed something about the pictures taken of us together. We are laughing or smiling in nearly everyone of them. Oh, the joy of having a daughter!
I’ve never lost the wonder of my children, or the joy of watching them become what God designed and created them to be. Finally having a little girl made it all the more special. She’s a gem, this girl of mine. Gorgeous, creative, smart and funny – but more important than her outward beauty is this inner sparkle that never seems to dim.
She’s always been a bit of a hero to me. She’s caring and compassionate, but she knows her own mind. Courageous and confident in her beliefs, she has grown into a strong, godly woman whom I admire very much, even someone I aspire to be like. As a child she could keep me laughing. She still has that quick wit I enjoy so much, but she’s grown in depth and spiritual insight as well. I’ve watched her grow from this darling little imp with the biggest blue eyes and sweetest smile to become a gifted young woman whom I am so proud to know and love.
Of all of God’s marvelous gifts to me, my children are my greatest treasure.
“Children are a gift from the Lord’” Psalm 127:3
I love you, Emy.
Happy Birthday!
All for Him,
Mom
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April 1st, 2010
It’s my birthday week!!!!
Now I know typically your birthday is only a day, but for me it gets to be a week. This has become a pretty well known fact with my friends and family. In fact I was talking to my friend the other day, and I sort of had an off day, and she sweetly reminded me that it would get better because the next day started my birthday week! (I’ve trained them well.)
I mean, there are 365 days a year. Why should I only get one?
It seems much more reasonable that I get one of the 52 weeks out of the year.
I don’t really know where this started, I wasn’t spoiled as a child. I had wonderful birthdays and I was very well loved but I was not raised to demand a whole week. I think I just decided as an adult that one solitary day was not good enough.
Now I don’t ask a lot. I don’t need presents (or a lot of them!) or dinners at fancy restaurants. I simply need attention.and lots of it. Rub my head, my feet, refill my drink, let me pick what’s on TV, and of course the most important thing, dote on me. Yes, I require lots of doting during my birthday week.
And, if I don’t make a big deal of my birthday, who will?
Every year I ask my husband what he wants for his birthday, and what he wants to do, and his response is always the same, “I don’t care.” Well honey, if you don’t care I’m not sure I do! (Although every year I struggle to get him the perfect gift and make the day special nonetheless.) But it’s a whole lot more fun if he gets excited about it.
I have very little expectations. I just like my birthday and want everyone else to like it too.
And I figure, if I keep this attitude it will make all the birthdays that are to come that no one looks forward to (pretty much every one after 29, right?) bearable and fun even! I don’t ever want to be sad about my birthday, no matter what the number is.
No, I think I’m going to be thankful for every one.
Psalm 39:4
O LORD, make me know my end
and what is the measure of my days;
let me know how fleeting I am!
Emily
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