Snarled Christmas traffic surrounded us. Impatient drivers showed little evidence of the Christmas spirit as my granddaughters and I drove to our house. The agitated drivers reminded them of a recent incident.
“When a man pulled out in front of daddy, he honked. The man raised his fist,” Ashlyn said.
While we discussed proper responses to poor drivers, a soft voice came from the backseat.
In a quiet voice, Emily stated, “I prayed for him. Mean people have something wrong with them so I prayed for him.”
Reinforcing her response, I answered. “Yes, people who are mean might be sad. Something might have happened to them and they take it out on other people. It’s good to pray for them.”
Emily’s five year old wisdom stopped me. How many times have I been annoyed when someone cut me off in traffic, pushed ahead in line, or said an unkind word? Did I want to retaliate or pray for them?
My young granddaughters continue to amaze me, lift me up, and strengthen my faith. God bless the children.
Monday, December 26, 2011
Friday, December 23, 2011
The Real Christmas Card
Stench from the animals wrinkled their noses. Animal dung clung to well worn sandals. Pushing the animals aside, the couple entered the crowded cave.
One small candle illuminated a small portion of the stable. A spot on the floor served as a lumpy maternity bed. With partially fresh hay, the stone manger turned into a makeshift crib. The weary travelers made the best of their circumstances.
No one sends Christmas cards showing the real nursery. Human minds can’t comprehend a king’s birthplace being so shabby, unsanitary, and tarnished. On cards, in paintings, and in minds, it is beautiful and serene.
Jesus’ life on Earth began in humble circumstances. He walked dirty, rut filled roads to be with His people. Instead of towering He knelt close by.
He isn’t a baby in a glorious manger but a Savior who continues to walk with us through the messes of our lives.
What a wondrous gift we have received.
Luke 2: 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.”
Merry Christmas.
One small candle illuminated a small portion of the stable. A spot on the floor served as a lumpy maternity bed. With partially fresh hay, the stone manger turned into a makeshift crib. The weary travelers made the best of their circumstances.
No one sends Christmas cards showing the real nursery. Human minds can’t comprehend a king’s birthplace being so shabby, unsanitary, and tarnished. On cards, in paintings, and in minds, it is beautiful and serene.
Jesus’ life on Earth began in humble circumstances. He walked dirty, rut filled roads to be with His people. Instead of towering He knelt close by.
He isn’t a baby in a glorious manger but a Savior who continues to walk with us through the messes of our lives.
What a wondrous gift we have received.
Luke 2: 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.”
Merry Christmas.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Unexpected Pregnancy
Each day his rough hands formed wood and stone into useful items. A hard but honest occupation. With his engagement and approaching marriage, life was good.
Instantly, it changed. “Joseph, I’m pregnant.”
His sweet, innocent Mary. How could she do such a thing? Who was the father? What would his family say? What would the elders do? Penalties were severe. Would she be stoned?
A decision formed. He wouldn’t marry her but divorce her quietly. Perhaps she wouldn’t be harmed.
That night, rumpled blankets and anxious thoughts kept him company. Finally, he fell into a fitful sleep.
In a dream, an angel spoke. “Joseph, take Mary as your wife. The baby, conceived by the Holy Spirit, will be named Jesus. This fulfills prophecy.”
Joseph sat up, and the dream replayed in his mind. Did he really see an angel? Was he imagining the visit? Even though the story seemed unbelievable, peace engulfed him. He knew the angel’s words were true. Mary would be his wife, and he would protect her.
Mary’s story confirmed his decision. She had also been visited by an angel.
Though not an educated man, Joseph was trustworthy and faithful. He lovingly cared for the young, pregnant girl on a long, difficult journey to Bethlehem. In desperation he searched and searched for a suitable room with no success. Finally, he secured a place in a smelly stable. Though dark and cold, it was sufficient.
With Mary settled onto the hay, the baby was born. Into the manger she lovingly placed the tiny child. Footsteps sounded outside.
Humble shepherds entered the cave and reverently gathered around the baby. Again, angels had proclaimed wondrous news.
Away from harmful gossip, Joseph secured a home in Bethlehem for his small family. He found work, and they settled into a normal life.
Months later more unfamiliar footsteps. A caravan gathered outside the unassuming home. Dressed in expensive robes, the men descended from their camels. Holding gifts they stood before the inquisitive toddler. Another incredible story unfolded about following a star. They bowed before the child and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The astonished couple had never seen such wealth.
Another restless night came to Joseph as he remembered the visit of the magi. Again, an angel spoke to him. “Joseph, take the child and his mother to Egypt. Herod wants to kill the child.”
Obediently, Joseph again followed instructions. The new plan caused more disruptions for life in an unknown, faraway culture.
After settling into a new home, another dream came to Joseph. The angel said, “Herod is dead. Return to Israel.”
Off again. The dutiful couple packed up and moved along dusty roads to another home.
Once more, an angel talked to Joseph. “Herod’s son is also a harsh ruler.”
Therefore, Joseph bypassed Bethlehem and settled his family further north in Nazareth.
Time after time, Joseph heard amazing angelic proclamations. Instead of ignoring the calls, he listened and obeyed. Little was written about Joseph. However, his life displayed strength, obedience, and perseverance through astounding trials and difficulties.
His normal, quiet life erupted with the first angelic proclamation. His love for his family overcame his own comfort and stability. His role was crucial in the birth and early life of Jesus. God knew his heart.
Instantly, it changed. “Joseph, I’m pregnant.”
His sweet, innocent Mary. How could she do such a thing? Who was the father? What would his family say? What would the elders do? Penalties were severe. Would she be stoned?
A decision formed. He wouldn’t marry her but divorce her quietly. Perhaps she wouldn’t be harmed.
That night, rumpled blankets and anxious thoughts kept him company. Finally, he fell into a fitful sleep.
In a dream, an angel spoke. “Joseph, take Mary as your wife. The baby, conceived by the Holy Spirit, will be named Jesus. This fulfills prophecy.”
Joseph sat up, and the dream replayed in his mind. Did he really see an angel? Was he imagining the visit? Even though the story seemed unbelievable, peace engulfed him. He knew the angel’s words were true. Mary would be his wife, and he would protect her.
Mary’s story confirmed his decision. She had also been visited by an angel.
Though not an educated man, Joseph was trustworthy and faithful. He lovingly cared for the young, pregnant girl on a long, difficult journey to Bethlehem. In desperation he searched and searched for a suitable room with no success. Finally, he secured a place in a smelly stable. Though dark and cold, it was sufficient.
With Mary settled onto the hay, the baby was born. Into the manger she lovingly placed the tiny child. Footsteps sounded outside.
Humble shepherds entered the cave and reverently gathered around the baby. Again, angels had proclaimed wondrous news.
Away from harmful gossip, Joseph secured a home in Bethlehem for his small family. He found work, and they settled into a normal life.
Months later more unfamiliar footsteps. A caravan gathered outside the unassuming home. Dressed in expensive robes, the men descended from their camels. Holding gifts they stood before the inquisitive toddler. Another incredible story unfolded about following a star. They bowed before the child and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. The astonished couple had never seen such wealth.
Another restless night came to Joseph as he remembered the visit of the magi. Again, an angel spoke to him. “Joseph, take the child and his mother to Egypt. Herod wants to kill the child.”
Obediently, Joseph again followed instructions. The new plan caused more disruptions for life in an unknown, faraway culture.
After settling into a new home, another dream came to Joseph. The angel said, “Herod is dead. Return to Israel.”
Off again. The dutiful couple packed up and moved along dusty roads to another home.
Once more, an angel talked to Joseph. “Herod’s son is also a harsh ruler.”
Therefore, Joseph bypassed Bethlehem and settled his family further north in Nazareth.
Time after time, Joseph heard amazing angelic proclamations. Instead of ignoring the calls, he listened and obeyed. Little was written about Joseph. However, his life displayed strength, obedience, and perseverance through astounding trials and difficulties.
His normal, quiet life erupted with the first angelic proclamation. His love for his family overcame his own comfort and stability. His role was crucial in the birth and early life of Jesus. God knew his heart.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Unexpected Fruit
Teeny ripples formed a corduroy lake below an azure sky. Twitters and tweets drifted from towering pines. Burnt orange berries decorated the garden. After days at the hospital, the peaceful garden offered solitude for reflection.
Within the beauty and peacefulness, a lanky, withered tomato plant caught my eye. Its growth exceeded the height of the supporting stake so dead stems hung downward. When I started to pull it from the ground, I noticed blooms.
During its vibrant stage, the poor plant only produced three cherry tomatoes. Why not let it remain and see what would happen?
Inspection a few days later stunned me. Twenty tiny tomatoes clung tightly to the ends of the stems. Only a few motley leaves hung on the struggling plant. Nothing about the specimen offered hope. Nevertheless, the tomatoes grew.
With daily waterings and bright sunshine, the unexpected fruits grew and ripened. What appeared to be dead produced an abundant harvest.
When the plant was healthy I expected many fruits. However, there were only a few. Evidently, all of its strength and nutrition nurtured only the plant itself. Likewise, some people are so self centered there is nothing left to produce good fruit or to help others.
Like my dismal plant, some lives are so damaged and broken that they appear defeated and broken. They want to give up and others may also give up on them.
Then blooms emerge and fruits form. Because of their trials and hardships, compassion increases. Appreciation, for even small things, makes them thankful. God’s love shines through them as they bless others.
My withered plant reminds me to not give up.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5: 22-23 NIV
Heavenly Father, help us look at the fruit of each person’s life and not just the outward appearance. Amen
Within the beauty and peacefulness, a lanky, withered tomato plant caught my eye. Its growth exceeded the height of the supporting stake so dead stems hung downward. When I started to pull it from the ground, I noticed blooms.
During its vibrant stage, the poor plant only produced three cherry tomatoes. Why not let it remain and see what would happen?
Inspection a few days later stunned me. Twenty tiny tomatoes clung tightly to the ends of the stems. Only a few motley leaves hung on the struggling plant. Nothing about the specimen offered hope. Nevertheless, the tomatoes grew.
With daily waterings and bright sunshine, the unexpected fruits grew and ripened. What appeared to be dead produced an abundant harvest.
When the plant was healthy I expected many fruits. However, there were only a few. Evidently, all of its strength and nutrition nurtured only the plant itself. Likewise, some people are so self centered there is nothing left to produce good fruit or to help others.
Like my dismal plant, some lives are so damaged and broken that they appear defeated and broken. They want to give up and others may also give up on them.
Then blooms emerge and fruits form. Because of their trials and hardships, compassion increases. Appreciation, for even small things, makes them thankful. God’s love shines through them as they bless others.
My withered plant reminds me to not give up.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5: 22-23 NIV
Heavenly Father, help us look at the fruit of each person’s life and not just the outward appearance. Amen
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Unanticipated Blessings
Confinement. Pain. Limitations. All contribute to frustration, weariness, and apprehension.
Alan’s convalescence from hip surgery swings from bad to pretty good to uncomfortable to fair to crummy to tolerable. Each day brings ups and downs.
Even on the not so good days, we are grateful for every tiny bit of progress. Larger steps, longer walks, less shuffling, better balance, reduced pain. Competent doctors, compassionate nurses, firm but kind therapists, both in the hospital and at home, remind us continually of the blessings from exceptional medical care.
Sick and disabled citizens of poor countries come to mind when we see our well staffed hospitals, pharmacies of drugs, and aids like walkers and canes. Many people around the world have little or no access to adequate medical treatments. Deaths occur from common diseases and infections. A new hip would only be an impossible dream.
Each day brings peace and hope as improvements come, wounds heal, and no complications develop. In only a week, major changes have occurred.
Our routines have changed dramatically, and life has slowed to a crawl. With fewer distractions and nowhere to go, small things become more important. A glass of ice water tastes delicious. A Christmas movie is special entertainment. Time together becomes a treasure.
God’s creation seems more extraordinary. Sunrises are more beautiful. The lake becomes exceptionally lovely. Leaves sparkle. Oranges ripen. Flowers brighten. Unfolding days deliver answers for continuing healing. Thankfulness for unanticipated blessings fill days even in the valleys.
Isaiah 40:31 But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles. They shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and not faint. (NJV)
Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. (NKJ)
Heavenly Father, thank you for blessing us over and over even in the middle of trials and pain. Amen
Alan’s convalescence from hip surgery swings from bad to pretty good to uncomfortable to fair to crummy to tolerable. Each day brings ups and downs.
Even on the not so good days, we are grateful for every tiny bit of progress. Larger steps, longer walks, less shuffling, better balance, reduced pain. Competent doctors, compassionate nurses, firm but kind therapists, both in the hospital and at home, remind us continually of the blessings from exceptional medical care.
Sick and disabled citizens of poor countries come to mind when we see our well staffed hospitals, pharmacies of drugs, and aids like walkers and canes. Many people around the world have little or no access to adequate medical treatments. Deaths occur from common diseases and infections. A new hip would only be an impossible dream.
Each day brings peace and hope as improvements come, wounds heal, and no complications develop. In only a week, major changes have occurred.
Our routines have changed dramatically, and life has slowed to a crawl. With fewer distractions and nowhere to go, small things become more important. A glass of ice water tastes delicious. A Christmas movie is special entertainment. Time together becomes a treasure.
God’s creation seems more extraordinary. Sunrises are more beautiful. The lake becomes exceptionally lovely. Leaves sparkle. Oranges ripen. Flowers brighten. Unfolding days deliver answers for continuing healing. Thankfulness for unanticipated blessings fill days even in the valleys.
Isaiah 40:31 But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles. They shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and not faint. (NJV)
Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. (NKJ)
Heavenly Father, thank you for blessing us over and over even in the middle of trials and pain. Amen
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