Our Christmas Miracles

In the blackness before dawn, Alan and I finished loading the car and headed to our first destination. 

Carrying bags of presents, we entered Chris and Anne’s festive home. Lights sparkled inside and out. They welcomed us with hushed voices. No excited girls were in sight.

After a few minutes, Ashlyn and Emily bounded out of their room. Molly clung to her dad’s shoulder and gazed at us with sleepy eyes. 

Within a short time, gifts were opened. Giggles. Squeals of delight. Smiles all around. 

For several years we have joined Chris, Anne, and the girls on Christmas morning to open gifts and have breakfast with them. With Alan’s disease, we didn’t know if that would happen this year, but he felt great.

Our second stop was at Ken and Kim’s for the next meal with more family. With mother’s declining health, we weren’t sure if she would be up to joining the group. Thankfully, she was also able to participate. 

Though we missed having dad with us, five children kept the gathering jolly as they played, laughed, and enjoyed each other. That was one miracle.

Mother’s stamina, after days of being very weak, and being a part of the celebration was a miracle. 

For Alan there were two miracles. He had been strong for about ten hours which had not happened in months. Also, he had not used his oxygen all day even though he normally uses it full time. How wonderful for him to not be tethered to a tube.

Each part of the day gave us joy. What a blessing our family was given when we anticipated a difficult Christmas. Even though 2013 was filled with trials, God presented us with a beautifully, memorable celebration to end the year. 

Mother still can’t walk and has leukemia. Alan requires oxygen and continues to have fibrosis. Dad is no longer with us. But for one day, we rejoiced in our Christmas miracles.

Psalm 67: 1 May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine upon us. (NIV)

Gracious Father, thank you for adorning your children with blessings. Amen

The Stable

Damp coldness chilled me. Clouds hovered. Trickles from the sky hit the parched earth. There was no cheery Christmas feeling in the dawn’s drabness.

Clothed in a robe and blanket, I struggled to get warm. Still I shivered. 

Memories returned me to Bethlehem. Not to the Church of the Nativity with its long lines of visitors and gaudy display in the cave room where tradition says that Jesus was born.

Instead, I remembered a simple, hillside cave. A place shepherd’s took sheep for shelter. In winter a dark, cold spot but a source of protection and refuge. 

A weary, young couple retreated there for the night too. Though smelly and chilly, it provided a sanctuary after their long journey. 

In that unlikely cave, a baby, named Jesus, entered a dark, desperate world. His cries joined the clamor and tumult of mankind. His coo’s and laughter interrupted the silence of the deep night. 

Multitudes of angels filled the sky with praises at His Presence. Unexpected, ordinary guests hurried and stumbled over rocks to see the baby in the humble stable. 

No longer did the cave seem cold and isolated. The tiny baby Jesus transformed it. Hope, joy, and holiness arrived that long ago night. 

Roman occupiers didn’t leave when Jesus came. The shepherds didn’t move to mansions with servants. Mary and Joseph didn’t experience a life of luxury. 

Though still chilly as I gazed at the gloomy morning, I knew Who warmed my heart. Who gives me peace and joy in this dark world. 

Outwardly, circumstances may not improve, but inwardly, hearts warm with His Presence.

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.” (NIV)

Holy Father, thank you for sending your Son to bring us peace and joy in our broken world. Amen

Our Special Christmas Trees

After moving into a smaller home and getting rid of many ornaments and our tree, Alan and I only had a few Christmas items out and a Molly sized tree.

Neighborhood homes blazed with lights and colorful decorations. A wreath hung on our door and poinsettias welcomed visitors on the walkway, but no lights glittered on our home or bushes. 

A few days before Christmas, dawn revealed a decorated tree behind our home. Shimmering water droplets hung on the oak near the lake. Exquisite, glistening spider webs stretched from branch to branch. Instead of manmade decorations, God’s memorable creations graced our tree.

The seven cypress trees, with light green, dark green, bronze, and rust leaves, bordered the lake and sparkled in the sunlight. Tiny fluttering birds perched as ornaments. 

We didn’t have a manmade tree or formed live one. However, we received eight unique trees specifically adorned by God.

This year for Christmas, more than ever, we are focusing on Jesus, His love, and His commandment to love one another. What better gift than that. 

With dad’s passing this year, mother’s declining health, and Alan’s disease progression, material possessions fade in importance. Relationships become paramount.

Commercialism of Christmas pressures people to buy things that aren’t needed and to spend money they don’t have. Stress pushes out the joy of the season. 

During the quietness of the dawn, God presented His gifts. 

Ephesians 2:10 For we are the product of His hand, heaven’s poetry etched on our lives, created in the Anointed Jesus, to accomplish the good works God arranged long ago. (The Voice)

Creator, thank you for your endless gifts. The most important one is Jesus. Help us to see you each day and be a light in the dark world. Amen

Grief at Christmas

Ringing bells. Sparkling trees. Jolly Christmas music. People hustling to fill shopping carts.

Ignoring decorations and cheery people, I entered the first store and focused on finding the perfect gifts for my mom who can no longer go shopping.

I searched diligently but nothing seemed right--wrong color, size, style ... Between stores, tears threatened.

With each clerk’s jovial, “How are you today?”, I mumbled, “Ok.”

What if I told them the real story? Would they even hear me or care?

Finally, tired and discouraged with hardly anything purchased, I retreated to my cocoon. When the car started, so did my tears. 

I longed for the happiness of previous Christmases. Savoring mother’s cooking at my parents’ home. Opening gifts with the whole family looking on. Mother, dad, and Alan  all robust, healthy, and enjoying the celebration. 

Grief grabbed me like a stealthy intruder. Unexpected and unwelcome. I grieved my own losses. Sadness filled me for family and friends who will face empty chairs this year too. 

In spite of the tears, I also remembered many happier times and thought of the reason for Christmas--celebrating the birth of Jesus.

He didn’t remain an adorable Christmas card baby. His life contained trials and hardships. He sorrowed and wept. His followers suffered grief as he was imprisoned, crucified, and died. But joy came on Easter at His resurrection. 

In our fallen world, grief and sorrow  blend with joy and happiness. Life on earth is not the end of the story for those who believe. Only in heaven will there be no pain or sorrow. 

Revelation 21:4

    The prophecies are fulfilled: He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more. Mourning no more, crying no more, pain no more, For the first things have gone away. (The Voice)

Heavenly Father, be with us as we grieve and give us peace and joy. Amen

A Changing Mission Field

A world traveler, who ministered in places like South Sudan, Ethiopia, Jamaica, China, and Cuba, is now tethered to an oxygen condenser. Alan’s physical range has shortened but his message hasn’t. 

In his smaller mission field, he spends hours sharing his testimony with all who enter our home.  

A very private man has been transformed into a willing evangelist. Some days his voice and energy allow him to share at great length. Other times a weakened voice proclaims the Gospel in an abbreviated form. In all cases, his message is clear.

With declining health, he feels an urgency to share the message of Jesus, who is with him every day. Instead of anger or despair, a peace radiates from him even when breathing is difficult. There is no fear of death. Joy fills him as he looks ahead knowing he will be in heaven. 

His increased strength the last couple of weeks has been a gift as we prepare for my life without him. With his organizational skills, he is trying to make the process as easy as possible for me. We are relishing our time together. 

He wants to teach others valuable lessons he has learned. Love God. Accept Jesus. Appreciate loved ones and let them know. Prepare for earthly death. Enjoy every day.

We know that pulmonary fibrosis attacks the body vigorously. People around the world are praying for both of us. Pray for strength, peace, comfort, and healing. We don’t know if God will heal him here or in heaven. We can accept either one.

The love and support we have received overwhelms us. God has used you to shine in our lives.

2 Corinthians 5: 1 We know that if our earthly house-a mere tent that can easily be taken down-is destroyed, we will then live in an eternal home in the heavens, a building crafted by divine-not human-hands. (The Voice) 

Heavenly Father, thank you for constantly being with us. Help us to see and accept Your plan. Amen

Looking for God

From my front row seat on the patio, I waited. For days I had hoped for a glorious sunrise but only saw a cloud shrouded sky.

During my quiet time, I longed for a welcoming display of color. A magnificent show of God’s glory. But all I saw were gray clouds.

Then I noticed birds trilling a morning song. The mirrored lake reflected a lovely, muted picture. Delicate purple blooms peeked into the porch. Feathery cypress trees formed giant Christmas trees. 

Suddenly rain swept across the lake in sheets. Patterns formed on the water. Even in the gloomy morning, God appeared. 

With Alan’s quick decline in health and mother’s long, slow one, I wondered about God’s plan. What does he want us to learn? What are we to share? Even though I can’t figure it all out, I can look for him in each situation. I would rather have the sunshine, but I can also rejoice in the rain.

1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 With every sun’s rising surprise us with Your love, satisfy us with Your kindness. Then we will sing with joy and celebrate every day we are alive. (The Voice)

Heavenly Father, hold us close when we face trials. Help us see you every day even in the rain. Amen

Calmness of the Morning

A ring of shadowy trees surrounded the lake.   An unseen hand lightly brushed pink swirls across the pale blue sky. A miniature sunrise reflected on the lake.

A flurry of trills and tweets praised the artist. No painting compared to the masterpiece before me. From my cozy seat on the patio, the spectacular show captured me. 

Within moments, pink faded to white. Leaves emerged. Tiny ripples jiggled the lake. Morning had arrived.

Waiting for the sunrise calmed me. Thoughts of chores and concerns evaporated. For a few minutes, I watched God create a glorious gift for me. As the sun rose, colors muted and light appeared. I took a deep breath. The special present gave me hope and encouragement for the day and whatever it holds.

Psalm 136: 4-5 To Him who alone does marvelous wonders, for His faithful love lasts forever. Who created the heavens with skill and artistry for His faithful love lasts forever. 

(The Voice)

Psalm 131:2 Of one thing I am certain, my soul has become calm, quiet, and contented in you. Like a weaned child resting upon his mother, I am quiet. My soul is like this weaned child. O Israel, stake your trust completely in the Eternal-from this very moment and into the vast future. (The Voice)

Father, thank you for giving me signs to remind me that you are near. Thank you for your unending love. Amen.

Thanksgiving During the Trials

A lifetime of trials seemed to have been condensed into our lives since last Thanksgiving. The gathering at our large home last year was smaller than normal but a happy one. The following day mother’s pneumonia and hospital admission began her spiral downward from independence to a nursing home, hospice, and twenty-four hour care at Ken and Kim’s. A couple of months later, dad followed her journey. His ended in May.

The progression of Alan’s pulmonary fibrosis brought numerous changes. Selling our home, buying a smaller one, moving, and fitting into a new neighborhood. His body  weakened, and he entered the care of hospice. 

In addition to those difficult situations, several other trying ones joined them.

In the cold, dreary, blustery morning, the sun broke through heavy clouds. Leaves rustled. Waves sparkled in the sunlight. It’s appearance signaled hope and encouragement. As I watched the lake, while wrapped in a warm blanket, peace and thankfulness filled me.

God’s presence offers peace and comfort in the midst of our trials. Alan’s disease has slowed us down. He relaxes in his recliner while I sit nearby. We talk. We discuss the past, present, and future. We share concerns, deep feelings, and how God wants to use us.

With his limited time, we focus on what is important and ignore the trivial. We want to let people know they are important to us. Another goal is to make sure others know God is with us and can be with them too. We hope they can prepare for death and not fear it. During this process, we are learning. 

Cards, emails, phone calls, and visits bring joy. They give words of encouragement, comfort, promises of prayers, and let us know how we have touched lives. Though surprised, we are thrilled that God has used us even when we didn’t know it. 

We know the upcoming year will bring changes and probably losses. But as we travel that road, Jesus is holding our hands during the journey.

1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Lord, thank you for being with us along our journey. Amen

Thanksgiving Story

As I am reading through the Bible, today included Luke 2. The Christmas story on Thanksgiving at first seemed strange. Then I realized it was perfect because of the gift of Jesus.

Thanksgiving Day in America was originally set up as a day of thankfulness to God. Over the years, the holiday has become a day of feasting, football, family gatherings, and shopping frenzies. 

Before delving into the turkey, let’s give thanks to God for his faithfulness, love, and His Son.

Dear Lord, we thank you for loving us and watching over us even when we mess up. Thank you for sending your Son to die for us and to save us. Amen

Alan's Journey

Around the lake, cypress leaves are rusting. Within weeks, they proceeded from green to burnt orange. Soon they will drop to signal the end of a season. Likewise, in the last few weeks, Alan is also moving to his final season too.

In October he joyously gave glasses to the poor of Jamaica. When I expressed reservations about taking the trip, he reminded me that God would take care of him. On his last of twenty-nine missions, he touched citizens of Jamaica, as well as, fellow team members. 

For over five and a half years after his diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, we continued to travel the world for missions and pleasure. He touched hundreds of lives while the deadly disease scarred his lungs. He beat the prediction of one to three years’ life expectancy and later three to five years. He was slowed and had to make accommodations when his lungs didn’t work properly but wasn’t stopped.

Only in the last month has the horrible disease attacked violently and altered his life. In ten days, he went from not using oxygen at all, to occasionally, and now to full time. Shuffling to the kitchen is like climbing Mt. Everest. Any exertion, such as brushing his teeth or shaving, brings on violent coughing fits and gasps for breath. 

We found out this week that he has a growing spot on his lung which is probably cancer. With his other issues, we decided to not have any treatment for that. In his weakened state, it would only prolong not cure his aliments. 

This week he started care with hospice so that he can be more comfortable. After seeing what they did for my parents this past year, we knew it would be a help for us too.

As terrible as the disease is to endure, Alan says it is all part of God’s plan. He is at peace and knows he will probably soon be with Jesus.  In his living and dying, he wants to be an example of the journey with Jesus.  As his legacy, he wants others to know that same peace in Jesus.

We appreciate so much all of the prayers, emails, cards, calls, and visits. As he gets worse, it is harder for him to talk on the phone or have many visits. I can take calls and relay them to him. He enjoys getting cards and emails which he can read on his new I Pad Air. He has enjoyed it so much and can keep up with the world from his recliner.

Continue praying. We know that God does heal but only He knows when or how. It may be here or with a new body in heaven. 

The Rest of My Birthday Story

My birthday this year on November 7 was one of the worst and also one of the best. During my private pity party, tears moved from trickling to gushing as I grieved for what I no longer had.

Alan had not even mentioned my birthday when we got up like he normally did. I had to remind my mom of what day it was. No calls came to wish me a special day.

As I sat on the patio looking at the lake through tears, the phone rang. My good friend, Sallie, joined my party. We cried, laughed, and cried some more. She was Jesus to me by sharing in my pain.

When I hung up the phone, my party ended. As soon as I stepped into the house, Alan wished me a happy birthday. 

“I had planned to tell you as soon as we got up,” he said. “But I was so concentrated on breathing.”  He hadn’t forgotten. 

Later in the day when I called mother, she didn’t remember our earlier conversation. Right away she said, “Happy birthday.” 

Then we joked about how old she must feel to have such an ancient daughter. She hadn’t forgotten either.

For dinner, Alan and I were able to eat at a lovely restaurant nearby. What a delicious meal we had with a table decorated just for my day. 

Friends near and far remembered my day with cards, phone calls, email messages, and hugs. My Bible study group surprised me with a cake. When they sang, I cried because they cared. 

Chris and Anne invited us for a special dinner. The girls decorated the room and each made a beautiful card. With his 02, Alan was able to be there.

My sister-in-law Kim made sure to get a card for me from mother along with their card. Over and over I was lifted up for several days. I continue to smile and remember family and friends who sent cards that fill the counter. 

Though my day was not as elaborate as some years, it was more precious because of the sacrifices that were made. Alan stored his energy for the day so that we could go out. Family members and friends made sure that I wasn’t forgotten. Each gift was precious. 

God uses His people to comfort others. I was definitely comforted and encouraged by all of the prayers and kind gestures. That made my birthday one of the best. How blessed I am.

2 Corinthians 1:2-4 May the grace and peace from God our Father the Lord Jesus, the Anointed One, surround you. He is the Father of Compassion, the God of all comfort. He consoles us as we endure the pain and hardship of life so that we may draw from His comfort and share it with others in their own struggles.  (The Voice)

Dear Lord, thank you for those who comfort. You are the ultimate Comforter. Amen. 

  

My Birthday Blues

Heavy clouds blocked the sun. Gloom surrounded the lake which matched my mood. Not exactly a cheerful way to start my birthday.

Since last year’s birthday, my life has been an endless stream of struggles. In the dreariness, I relived the pain. There would be no personalized computer card from my dad nor a happy phone call. In mother’s weakened state, she wouldn’t even know what day it was. Alan’s worsening condition made me wonder how many birthdays we would celebrate together.

Tears trickled during my pity party.

Then I noticed God’s birthday gifts. Water diamonds adorned the patio screen. An intricate spider web clung tightly to an adolescent oak. Three gray headed turkeys sauntered across my yard. Crickets hummed softly. A gigantic picture of the forest reflected on the tranquil lake.Tinges of orange edged mature cypress leaves.

God invited me to enjoy His presence. Absorb the peace. Remember that He has always been with me during difficult situations and won’t leave.

The water droplets reminded me to look for sparkles each day. Just as the web was fleeting so are relationships. People come and go. The leaves showed that life is full of seasons with endings. 

If the sun had come out, I would have focused on the spectacular sunrise and sparkling lake. Only in the haze did I notice the less obvious but still lovely beauty. Whether I wake to sun or clouds, I will look for each day’s blessings.

When someone is hurting or brokenhearted, the Eternal moves in close and revives him in his pain. Psalm 34:18 (The Voice)

Dear Lord, guide me every day to see the blessings you provide. Amen.

The Gifts

A sky of dusty pink emerged from the blackness of night. Breaks in the heavy clouds revealed strips of blue patterned with the pink. A silhouetted forest stood silently at attention waiting for the grand entrance of the sun. 

During the past year, endless trials--mother’s illnesses, dad’s illnesses and death, Alan’s progressing lung disease, moving...--gave me times of darkness and gloom too like the shadowy trees on the shore. 

From the scary darkness, the lake and trees appeared. When the sun rose, clouds broke apart. Gradually the entire sky brightened. God’s spectacular painting of pink and blue showed a marvelous display. His presence shouted to me. 

His creation reminded me that from the darkness comes light. He controls the universe including the tiny details of my life. Each day I can choose to focus on the gloominess or the magnificent beauty of the sunrise. 

I am so thankful for all of the gifts in His creation. Each one gives hope. They distract me from concerns. A smile replaces tears. Encouragement fills my heart.

The Eternal is my light amidst darkness and my rescue in times of trouble. So whom shall I fear?  Psalm 27:1 (The Voice)

Creator, thank you for your wonderful creation which enfolds and teaches your children. 

Amen.

Look for the Light

Lights flickered off tiny waves around the lake reminding me of light shows at Disney. Off and on they twinkled forming luminous patterns. The brief show ended abruptly. Dark water returned to somber calmness.

Birds chirped. Fish created circular ripples. Breezes rustled leaves. Two toned trees surrounded the lake. Each with a sunny side and a shadowy side. 

A gentle breeze ignited a fireworks-like finale of shimmering waves over half of the lake. The remainder was serene but gloomy. 

A dark dragonfly flitted close to the patio. As he darted about, sunlight glistened off his fluttering wings. An inky bird flew above the water. High above him, sparkly white contrails crisscrossed the blue sky. 

The resident gator floated past. His dark body was almost lost in the blackness of the lake. However, sunlight glistened off his wake and spiny back. In seconds he submerged. Hidden from view, his presence presented a mysterious and possible danger. 

The message of the lake show revealed life has hidden dangers, times of darkness, and happier periods of light. Some situations linger. Others come quickly and depart instantly. 

If I worry about unseen dangers which may never materialize and concentrate on the darkness, I will miss special seasons of light, whether brief or long lasting. Each burst of light gives hope, laughter, or encouragement. 

1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18 Celebrate always, pray constantly, and give thanks to God no matter what circumstances you find yourself in. This is God’s will for all of you in Jesus the Anointed. (The Voice)

Loving Father, remind us that no matter what we are going through, you are there to offer light in the darkness. Thank you. Amen.

The Other Jamaica

A picture of beauty in Jamaica with a bright blue sky, colorful tropical flowers, and towering palm trees was fit for a travel brochure. From a cruise ship or expensive resort, the island appears to be a paradise.

Searching deeper into the trees, up the hills, and away from the roads, a different picture emerges. For a week, our mission team experienced the other Jamaica not seen in promotional posters.

Each day team members spread out to minister in various ways. Lives were changed.

An elderly man moved from a patchwork shack to a sturdy, new home, the size of an American bedroom. His joy abounded as he thanked the team for blessing him. With a new bed, clean sheets, and a locked door, he can now sleep in peace.

For other families, freshly painted walls revived homes previous teams had constructed. Food baskets were distributed to seven families who desperately needed food.

Children flocked around Americans, who played games, painted faces, colored pictures, and hugged the excited youngsters. Bubbles and laugher floated around the play areas.

The dental/eyeglass clinics brought hundreds of people eager for health care. Two dentists worked tirelessly to extract decayed teeth. With no money for visits to dentists and poor dental care, extractions were the only option for the poor. They waited for hours but at each location. Every day many were sent home unseen because time ran out.

Over three hundred people came to have eyes checked. Almost all were helped to see better. Numerous ones wanted to be able to read their Bibles easily.  We saw every person who wanted to be checked, but a few had problems we could not solve which was heartbreaking. Cataract surgery, common in the U.S., is beyond the reach of the poor. Those who received glasses were so thankful.

During the week, hundreds of lives were touched--those we helped, those who watched, and those who served. As we strived to be the hands and feet of Jesus, we were blessed by Jamaicans who had peace and joy, in spite of, difficult circumstances.

Proverbs 19: 17 He who is kind to the poor, lends to the Lord, and he will reward him for what he has done. (NIV)

Dear Lord, help us be Jesus to others and help us see Jesus in those around us. Amen

A Buggy Life

Slate clouds concealed much of the sky and prevented a colorful sunrise. The lake was a dark reflection of the distant forest. 

In the dimness of dawn, I spotted him. Six hairlike, jointed legs jutted from a cigar shaped, segmented body. Long antennas wiggled. Minuscule feet held him securely to the screen even when he hung upside-down. 

I studied the fascinating creature and was captivated by his appearance. His nearness made him appear larger and more important than anything else in my view. Up close, he looked bigger than far away trees, bushes and small clouds. My perception   was distorted even though I knew the truth. 

Other bugs enter lives every day influencing emotions and treatment of others. Being first to a parking spot overrides kindness to another driver. Preventing an obnoxious driver from merging could lead to an unnecessary accident. Hours on the computer replaces spending time with a special child. Consuming work produces lonely families. Social media substitutes for real conversations. 

The bug on my patio remained after the sun broke through the clouds. Brightness of the sky, dimmed his presence. Though interesting, he no longer was the focus of my day so I concentrated on the entire picture and not one small bug.

When situations threaten to consume me, I will try to determine if they are merely little bugs that can be ignored or if they are actually worthy of my time.

All the things the world can offer to you-the allure of pleasure, the passion to have things, and the pompous sense of superiority-do not come from the Father. These are the rotten fruits of this world. The corrupt world is already wasting away, as are its selfish desires. But the person really doing God’s will-that person will never cease to be.

1 John 2:16-17 (The Voice)

Finally, all of you, be like-minded and show sympathy, love, compassion, and humility to and for each other-not paying back evil with evil or insult with insult, but repaying the bad with a blessing. It was this you were called to do, so that you might inherit a blessing. 1 Peter 3:8-9 (The Voice)

Father, help me to overlook the minor interruptions and concentrate on what is really important so that I can show love and compassion. Amen

Unto the Least of These

While perched on a rafter of the arena, I observed tiny creatures running around on the floor far below. On the front row of the of the balcony, I felt like a cliff hanger. The railing in front of the seats wasn’t even waist high and certainly not a deterrent to a falling body. 

My friends and I decided that the second row would seem a little safer. That position was tolerable if I looked toward the huge screens to see the speakers and not straight down. The designers of the upper level seating must have been mountain climbers who enjoyed hanging on dangerous precipices.

Fortunately, the fantastic speakers and musicians at the Women of Faith conference kept my mind off the altitude and my aversion to heights.

Because we sat on the aisle seats, each time someone came in or left during the sessions, we had to stand to let them pass which happened frequently. 

One young woman cautiously came to our row hanging onto the railing like a life line. We could see her anguish and reached out to her as she passed by. Her hand gripped ours tightly. Each time she made the journey, she plopped down into her seat with obvious relief. 

For two days, we helped her down the row by extending our hands and steadying her. During the breaks, we talked with her briefly. 

At the end of the conference, she leaned over and spoke to me. “I have severe fibromyalgia and have been in intense pain the whole weekend. I normally use a walker but couldn’t bring it because of the steps. I am also terrified of heights. Let your friends know how much your help meant to me.”

As she looked into my eyes, she continued. “ As you did this to the least of these...”

Tears came to my eyes as her words touched my heart. We had never met this young woman but our simple gestures had helped her through the weekend. Of course, she taught me many lessons with her quiet testimony.

Through her pain, she sang, laughed, and praised God. She didn’t complain but was grateful to experience the blessings of the weekend. She also overcame her fears to be there. What a testimony.

Her thankfulness for our small deeds reminded me of how much we can help others even when we aren’t fully aware of it. There are always people who need a touch of the love of Jesus. Who will it be today? 

I tell you this; whenever you saw a brother or sister hungry or cold, whatever you did to the least of these, you did to Me. Matthew 25: 40  (The Voice)

Jesus, thank you for reminding me to be aware of those around me. Lead me each day to help the least of these. Amen

No Masterpiece

From the patio, I stared into the predawn darkness. Little by little a shade lifted. Dim light appeared. 

Blaring birds cawed. Crickets hummed. Soothing melodies announced the dawn. The lake had awakened.

Increasing light revealed a cloudless, pale sky. Not even a wisp of cloud marred the gigantic canvas. Behind the forest, white light beamed brightly. 

No magnificent swirl of color painted the clear sky. No light bounced off clouds to form a magnificent sunrise. Without obstacles, light opened the day but created no masterpiece. 

Humility, compassion, and perseverance develop when obstacles come. Overcoming trials and problems can increase growth and maturity. Distressing situations break confidence but force reliance on God.

When life beats me down, I look up to see God and those he uses. 

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1: 2-5, 12 (NIV)

Father, thank you for being with us in the trials and giving us the strength to endure. Amen

Transformations

Swatches of charcoal spread across the light gray sky. Black trees and lake completed the dismal picture. Lack of sleep, busyness, and stress put me in the mood of the scene before me.

Behind a tree, a wisp of pink glowed. Within seconds, each gray cloud blushed a brilliant coral. With the contrast in colors, dreariness left, and the sky lightened. Shades of pink highlighted each unique shape and pattern across the entire sky. 

With emerging light, the lake awakened. Trees turned from shadowy blobs into detailed specimens. Surrounding the water, feathered musicians celebrated the artistic display. Brilliant colors turned into pastels.

The brief performance reminded me of the importance of spending time with God each day. While immersed in the gorgeous sunrise, I released anxiety, worry, and control. Allowing Him to take control, freed me to listen and obey. When life becomes hectic, time with God soothes, settles, and stabilizes.

The sun orchestrated the inspiring changes in the sky. The Son does the same for his children.

And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way; bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. Colossians 1:10-12 (NIV)

Heavenly Father, take me from anxiety and worry to peace with you. Lead me on the path you have selected for me. Amen

God's Handiwork

Blackness of night faded. Waves of gray blue clouds sprawled across the lightening sky. 

Flapping wings interrupted my devotions. Like an angel on a Christmas tree, a blue heron adorned the towering cypress. His slender neck and elongated beak were silhouetted against the dim sky. Like an arrow, he pointed me to the spectacular display.

Florescent pink transformed the dull sky from gray to an exquisite masterpiece. I stared at the unbelievable beauty pointed out to me by the solitary heron from his unusual spot. The brief exhibition disappeared as heavy clouds covered the sun but not my memory.

Life is filled with people and situations that point us to God’s handiwork--even in the midst of dark, foreboding clouds. 

Be watchful. Someone may be directing you to Him. Perhaps, you are the one to do the pointing for someone else. 

Encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 

1 Thessalonians 5: 11

Father, help us to see you and to be your hands and feet. Amen

Discovering Comfort and Beauty in Change

On the far shore, a speck of white glistened against the dark water and trees. Matching great white egrets tiptoed along the bank. One upright and the other upside-down. Wings lifted and flapped furiously as a blue heron aimed and pursued the frightened bird. All disappeared.

After a three day absence, the large alligator returned. Emerging from water plants near our shoreline, he slid silently into the glassy lake, submerged, and reappeared in the middle. 

Tiny splashes broke the dark surface creating rings of waves. Turtle heads peeked from the water. A red ball rose from behind the trees and became a blinding, white light. 

On the far shore, the egret returned to scan the lake for food. Familiar cardinal clicking joined humming crickets and melodious bird songs to produce a beautiful symphony.

Shimmering cobwebs crisscrossed the patio screen while an adolescent lizard scrambled to the top. Water diamonds glittered on the grass.

Breezes from the fan tickled my skin, kept me cool, and blocked highway noise allowing me to enjoy the sounds of nature. 

Each day our new house, seems more like home. My new retreat brings memories of my cherished old one but introduces gifts of its own. 

Life is filled with changes--both welcome and unwelcome. We can choose to accept them and find blessings or continue to lament what has been lost and miss opportunities.

Cause me to hear Your lovingkindness in the morning, for in You do I trust; cause me to know the way in which I should walk, for I lift up my soul to You. Psalm 143:8 (NIV)

Heavenly Father, thank you for what was given in the past and help me look forward and accept what is ahead.  Amen

Keep Moving On

Another step. Today Alan and I sign the papers to close on our present home. Next week, the buyers finalize their part of the transaction. With all of the bumps in the process, we won’t feel finished until that is done.

The past year has been a series of trials, setbacks, and heartache combined with victories from the mountain top to the valley and back up.  Trudging up the slippery slope, one step at a time, I would rise and slide backwards. Unsure of my footing, progress was often excruciatingly slow. Then sunshine dried the trail, clouds disappeared, and I climbed higher for a magnificent view. 

Just as I felt confident about the climb, a thunderstorm or blizzard overtook me. Ground was lost--again. But through the wind, rain, or snow, a cave offered refuge where I sat and rested. Safe and protected. 

Renewed and hopeful, the journey resumed. The struggles seemed less for a while. The top of the mountain was still elusive and shrouded in clouds. I wondered if it was even there. Some days the summit seemed unattainable and a useless goal.

However, during the constant struggles, my perspective changed. Aiming for the peak each day became overwhelming. I learned to look for small victories and teeny blessings at each level. Every step took me above the depths. Some days I could breathe fresh mountain air, explore plateaus, and run in the flowers. 

At other times, fallen logs, scratchy limbs, and exposed roots bruised and battered me but also kept me from tumbling over cliffs. Though painful, they helped in unexpected ways.

With every step, God walked with alongside. He offered strength, direction, rest, and hope. When I could barely move, he gently lifted me. He stood as a shield to protect. He also served as a beacon and place of refuge in the storms. 

Looking back, I am amazed at the progress. Peering ahead, the trip seems too difficult. Examining what is near, I am thrilled with the possibilities. I am thankful for God being with me and giving hope for an uncertain future.

Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; for He will never let the righteous fall. Psalm 55:22 (NIV)