Reflections of Christmas

It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High; to declare your steadfast love in the morning, and your faithfulness by night…

Psalm 92:1-2 (ESV)

Memories, some hazy and others very clear, of Christmas eleven years ago flooded my mind. Before the holiday, sadness crept over me and intertwined with joy. 

            In May, my dad passed away. Mother’s health declined.  She lived at my brother’s home with a full-time caregiver. 

            After Alan’s infusions stopped, his idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis worsened. Fatigue, coughing, and shortness of breath increased. 

            Despite wanting to admit it, I believed Christmas of 2014 would be the last one with Alan and mother. 

            We tried to make it as normal as possible. Anne’s mom hosted all of us for a lovely Christmas Eve dinner. Soon after we ate, Alan’s fatigue set in and we left early.

            The following morning, we arrived early at Chris and Anne’s to watch our granddaughters open gifts. Then Chris prepared a delicious brunch. 

            Alan joined in the celebration and left his O2 tank in the car. Three year-old Molly cuddled up to him like she did before the tubes circled his face. The contraption seemed to frighten her. 

            Since Alan felt stronger, we traveled to my brother’s home for a family dinner with extended family members. Mother’s caregiver wheeled her to the table. Even though she ate very little, she enjoyed the company. We savored the food, delighted in being together but missed dad and his jokes. I tried not to dwell on the reality of not all being together again. 

            For Christmas, I gave mother a sweater she wanted and the Guideposts daily devotional. For years, I had given my parents the year-long book so I didn’t want to stop. Although my heart wanted her to be able to finish it, my head told me she wouldn’t. 

            For years our Christmas meals were at my parents’ home with mother working for days to prepare. We would help her clean up. That day she rested. 

            Our holiday gatherings had dwindled in size and frequency as loved ones passed away and moved apart. 

            That day we didn’t dwell on who was there or who wasn’t. We embraced the moment and rejoiced we were together. 

            When my niece gave Alan a good-by hug, her eyes told me she knew it was the final one. 

            After a full day celebrating, we packed up and I drove home. God had blessed us with a remarkable Christmas. Laughter and companionship pushed aside tears and grief. Alan’s O2 tank only left the car when we got home. We were astonished that he didn’t require it all day long like he usually did. 

            Only a couple of weeks later, Alan joined Jesus in heaven. Mother followed in April. 

            I was so thankful for our final Christmas blessing. We thought it might be the last but only God knew for sure.

            Gather and talk to your family and friends often. Put aside differences and join in love. We have no idea when the last time will be the final one. 

Loving Father, thank you for bringing people together. Thank you for the blessings you give us. Help us appreciate the people you place in our lives. Amen

The Real Reason for Christmas

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6 (ESV)

A collection of Christmas cards laid on my counter from various organizations that hoped I would send them donations. I placed them in two stacks after I looked at each one. The larger batch contained pictures of Santa, cute animals and even seashells with texts about happiness, joy and giving. 

            The much smaller pile represented the holy family, angels, stars, churches, wise men and shepherds. Messages relayed the birth of Jesus, the announcement from the angels, and verses from the Bible. 

            I used the ones which featured the true meaning of Christmas. 

            Unfortunately, many people around the world want to experience the superficial happiness, gifts and parties of the Christmas season without Jesus. They either ignore or don’t even know why Christmas is important. 

            Instead of getting caught up in the hectic chaos of Christmas, take time to truly celebrate the birth of Jesus. Read Isaiah 9:6-7, Matthew 2:1-23 and Luke 2:1-20. 

Share what you read with a friend or family member who may not know the story. Invite someone to church for Christmas Eve. Wish people a Merry Christmas and reach out to someone who is grieving or alone. 

Be more like Jesus to others and tell them about Him. He is the reason we celebrate. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for bringing Jesus to us. Show us how to love others like He does and tell them about Him.

Amen

Joy in a Manger

And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria. So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city. Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Luke 2:1-8 (NKJV)

Twenty nativities filled the entertainment center in my living room. Each one presented unique figures crafted by various artists from the United States and other countries we visited on our travels around the world. 

            Every stable held Mary, Joseph and Jesus but some also included angels, shepherds, wise men, sheep, cows, and even camels. Although it would have been out of place in Israel, eighteen of the nativities placed the holy family in a wooden stable. Shepherds at that time protected their sheep inside caves in the hills around Bethlehem but only two of the nativities displayed caves as the birthplace of Jesus. 

            Every nativity represented an artist’s interpretation of the miraculous night when Jesus was born. The figures, frozen in place, depicted a clean stable with eyes fixed on the baby in the manger. A few knelt in reverence while the rest watched in awe. 

            The baby slept. Silent parents marveled at their precious son. Shepherds and wise men stared at the babe in the tidy manger. Angels hovered over the stable with arms outstretched. Each scene portrayed a sense of peace, joy and contentment. 

            No Roman soldiers stood near a dirty manger looking at the newborn. No crowds of travelers swarmed into the smelly stable.

But when Jesus was born in Bethlehem, there was little peace filling the streets. Romans occupied the country and Caesar Augustus demanded residents travel to their ancestral towns for a census even when it was inconvenient. 

Like individuals of long ago, we seek peace, joy and contentment. People try to find happiness in a variety of ways in our chaotic world but discover it is fleeting. 

During Advent, we prepare for Jesus’ birth and the celebration it brings. Slow down, examine the meaning of the nativity, and remember what Jesus brought. Joy to the world. 

He is no longer an adorable baby in a manger but a Savior who goes with us into our messy world.  

Loving Father, thank you for sending your son to rescue us. Thank you for the peace, joy and contentment we receive in knowing him all year and not just at Christmas.

Amen 

Am I Thankful?

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

Colossians 3:15 (NIV)

And be thankful. Do I really do that consistently? 

            Each morning, I write in a gratitude journal and list four or five things. Over the years, I have filled several journals. But do I just write my list and then go on with my day? 

            As I looked at the lake, I thought of the sunrises that present a gorgeous setting. Wildlife like sandhill cranes, egrets, ducks, deer and bears that visit. 

            Grocery stores provide an abundance of food.           

A reliable car gets me where I want to go and a supply of fuel keeps it running. Mechanics perform repairs. 

            Flowers and grass surround my comfortable home. It gives protection and safety. 

My closet holds more clothes than I need and my pantry has shelves of food.

            For years, I received an education from elementary school to college which enabled me to teach children. That career provided a retirement income to support me. 

            Recent health issues took me to a variety of doctors who prescribed multiple tests done in up-to-date medical facilities. 

            My church offers a place to worship freely. A Bible study meets in my home. 

            Neighbors give friendship and help when needed. Friends and family members care for and love me. 

As I thought of simple things and larger ones, my heart filled with thankfulness. On our trips around the world, Alan and I saw people who lacked many of the things we take for granted. Our travels have made me more aware of the plight of people in other countries. 

Also, I am content and know I am blessed to live in the United States. It isn’t perfect but allows us freedom and prosperity.  

Yes, I am thankful. 

Loving Father, thank you for all you have given to us. Help us to appreciate what we have and learn to be content.

Amen

 

Unpleasant Clamorous Voices

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!  Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:4-7 (NIV)

Blackness encircled my patio with a sense of serenity. A lone lamp illuminated my Bible and devotional books. 

            When a faint light emerged beyond the woods, tranquility vanished. Chattering birds spouted noise all around the lake. Their squawks became louder and louder as they tried to overpower each other. There were no melodies to counteract their commotion. But a far-away rooster crowed to announce his presence. 

            After a few minutes, peacefulness returned. Rosy slivers of sky filtered through the trees. Cheerful birds sang soothing songs. Trees materialized and light reflected on the lake. A day of opportunities began. 

            The noisy birds reminded me of the clamorous voices I hear each day all around me. There are constant complaints and dissensions. I can join in with the tumultuous racket. 

            Or I can bask in the beauty of God’s creation which unfolded around me. Enjoy peace and contentment despite unrest and division. 

            When I remember how God has been with me in various trials, I am thankful. When I focus on His promises, I can find peace and contentment in the chaotic world. 

As an ambassador of Jesus in a foreign land, I can make the most of each day I have been given and prioritize learning to be more like Him. 

Father, give us strength, peace and contentment even when the world around us is in turmoil. Show us how to be a light in darkness as we follow Jesus.

Amen

An Unpredictable Week

Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me, for in you I take refuge.
I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed.

Psalm 57:1 (NIV)

What a difference a week makes! A fiery ball bounced upward behind the woods and illuminated the sky.  A forest of green enclosed the mirrored lake. Breezes tickled leaves and purple flowers. An occasional bird melody drifted through the air but wildlife remained hidden. An air of peace and tranquility hovered over my retreat as sunlight glistened on the pond.

            Last week presented a much different picture. Gusts of wind swayed trees and waved flowers. Clouds hid the sun and created a mood of gloom. Not one squirrel, bird or deer ventured out. No melodious songs broke the spell. Perhaps they also felt anxiety because of the impending hurricane.  

            Continuous coverage about the storm filled news reports. Anxiety and uncertainty abounded as the state prepared for the worst. I had endured other storms but this one caused fear and apprehension across Florida. The winds increased quickly and the size widened. We watched and waited. 

            Even with Milton advancing, my daily time with God gave me peace, in spite of, the storm. I thought of people who endured the devastation of hurricane, Helene, only a week earlier. Many died, some lost homes and businesses but they persevered. They received an outpouring of assistance and compassion. 

            As I prepared before I left for my son, Chris’s home, I took pictures if I needed them for insurance. Questions swirled. Would I return to an intact home? Would my neighborhood be demolished? Would we be injured or worse? 

            I prayed and felt a sense of calmness unlike the predictions on the news. No matter what happened, I knew God promised to be with us and protect us. 

            The beauty and serenity of my lake reminded me that God did protect us in the latest storm. My family, friends and neighborhood survived with little damage. Only inconveniences with power outages, no internet nor television. 

             Because we have been spared, we can serve those who endured so much. We can donate money to reputable groups. Clean up yards for those who can’t like our church members have been doing. Even in our community some have lost much. Flooding continues as the rivers rise.  We need to also pray for people suffering from Helene and Milton. 

Heavenly Father, we weep with those who are distressed by the storms. Guide us on how we can help. Surround them with peace and compassion. Thank you for all the workers who have labored to support and encourage thousands of people in multiple states. Disasters often bring us together. Thank you for being with us in our pain and in our joy.

Amen

Frenzied Dragonflies

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

John 14:17 (NIV)

Sunlight shimmered on the mirrored lake. Dragonflies darted in a frenzy near the shore, up to the trees and then out across the water. Individually and in small groups they rose, dipped and circled but never rested. 

            Cardinals perched in my oak tree and chirped a greeting to the dawn. 

A pair of unseen birds played a game of rhythmic follow the leader. One would utter a specific tone and rhythm which was repeated exactly the same way from across the lake. For several minutes, they continued their back-and-forth joyful patterns.   

After I completed my morning devotional time, the peacefulness of the lake held me captive. Instead of rushing inside to start my day of tasks, I delighted in the beauty before me. I thanked God for my home, the lake, safety from the hurricane and the wonder of perfectly created flowers and trees.  

Too often, I am like the frantic dragonflies who hurry from place to place and miss the beauty and peace around me. It is easy to ignore the blessings when I focus on the problems. 

My yard isn’t perfect but I can overlook dying leaves, algae on the lake and bare spots of grass to appreciate the splendor of my retreat.  

Eventually, I have to leave the tranquil sanctuary to return to the reality of normal life with its ups and downs. However, I will try to remember the lessons of looking for God in the messiness of life. 

God of Peace, show us how to slow down and appreciate all you have given us. Your peace comes even in difficult situations.

Amen

            

The Monster Storm

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

John 16:33 (NIV)

Menacing clouds concealed the approaching dawn as a tropical storm rushed into the Caribbean.

            Schools closed. Activities canceled. Most residents remained at home to wait. 

            Continuous weather reports replaced normal programming. 

Colorful maps displayed possible paths and intensity of the storm. Radar and hurricane chasers gave information but no one could accurately forecast when, where and how strong it would be. However, we all learned the monster hurricane would cover most of our state and several inland ones. 

            All day I waited and watched for rain and wind. Sprinkles fell on the lake and breezes ruffled the trees. I finally tired of staying inside and decided to work in my yard.  For an hour, I yanked and dug weeds. Because the increasing wind kept bees away, I trimmed out of bound plants. Then the rain started. 

            As soon as I settled down in a soothing bath, my phone blared, “Tornado warning. Take cover. Move to an inside room.”

            For a moment, I thought of remaining since I had been told a tub was protection. But I didn’t think they meant in a tub of water. 

            Reluctantly, I washed and hurried to my “safe room” which is a large, interior closet. On my way, I watched the weather man show where the storm was located. Only a few miles from my home and moving north. Thankfully, the warning was lifted a few minutes later. 

            When evening approached, we still didn’t have turbulent weather. I began texting friends and family in the proposed path to check on them. 

            Instead of expiring, our day long tornado watch was extended until the following morning. Wind began whipping the trees. Lights flickered.  The tv went off. After that, I finished a book. 

            Even with the pounding wind, I slept through the night and woke when the tornado watch expired. I listened for wind and rain but only heard silence. The sun even shone. 

Newscasts showed horrible scenes of destruction in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and beyond. While I slept, the hurricane raged and altered lives. Unfortunately, over forty people died. Helene wasn’t finished. Her fury continued to the Midwest and Northeast. Flood waters rose and caused more devastation. 

Flash floods caught people off guard. Evacuations were ordered when dams threatened to break. Rescue operations pulled people from vehicles and buildings.

The category 4 hurricane bypassed the size of most storms. The power and strength of the monster exceeded others. We watched and tried to figure out where it would hit. But no one predicted it exactly. 

As bad as the storm was, people came together to help. First responders saved desperate folks. Power company workers from around the US waited nearby to restore power as soon as it was safe. Shelters opened. Ordinary people helped those around them. A newscaster doing a live broadcast, stopped and waded through water to save a lady in a flooded car. 

People cared about each other. As weeks, months and maybe years of repairs and reconstruction occur, may we not forget and assist those who have lost so much. 

The monster storm gives us an opportunity to be kind, compassionate and helpful to those affected.  

May we also show the same kindness, compassion and love to those around us because no one escapes the storms and trials of this life. In times of trouble, residents of our country have previously banded together to support each other. 

Heavenly Father, only you know when the storms will come and where they will go. Show us how to deal with them in our lives and how we can help others.

Amen

Lake Mary Champions

Cheers erupted as the player slid into home plate for the extra inning run to win the game. During the series, the Little League boys from Lake Mary played hard and didn’t give up even when they were behind. 

            Yellow shirted fans cheered loudly from the stands. Back home in Florida, watch parties celebrated. The entire community and beyond rejoiced at Florida’s first ever World Championship. 

            After losing to Texas, the double elimination tournament gave them a second chance. They beat Texas in a later game but consoled the losing team. 

            During the games, their love for baseball, their families and each other showed. Even though they went to Pennsylvania to play baseball, they didn’t forget to be kind and compassionate.

            Immediately after scoring the winning run, they displayed how to be true champions. When the boys saw the tears of the losing Chinese Taipei team, the Florida players put their arms around the boys and offered comfort. Their coach squatted down to console a devastated boy. Their kindness brought tears to my eyes as I watched boy after boy support their rivals. 

            They were baseball champs but more importantly champions in the way they live.  Interviews with parents during the series also showed families who cared about loving others. 

            We need to celebrate the Lake Mary Little League Champions for what they did on and off the field. 

            As adults we can learn how to live well by emulating the actions of the Lake Mary Champions. 

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.

Proverbs 22:6 (NIV)

Loving Father, help us remember to be kind and loving to those around us even if they are different from us. Turn enemies into friends. We can often learn from children. 

Amen

Answer to Prayer

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 3:17 (ESV)

Whenever I travel, a couple of my books go with me. I pray to meet the right person to receive each one. 

            On my flight home from Indiana, a gray-haired lady sat by the window when I took the aisle. We spoke briefly. Then as the plane filled, another older lady moved into the middle seat. 

            I learned she had visited family for three weeks and was ready to return home to The Villages, a huge retirement community an hour from me. She lived in Indiana with her pastor husband before moving to Florida. 

            Once in the air both of us turned on our tablets and became immersed in our games. She touched her screen and looked at me. Free Cell came up on both tablets. While I continued trying to win,  she jumped from one type of game to another. 

            Later as we sipped our drinks and ate teeny airline snacks, we talked more. She relayed her husband died  three years ago and the previous day was their anniversary. I understood how difficult special days could be. Our conversation continued with stories about our deceased husbands. 

            I handed her my book on grief. She looked at it and tried to give it back.

            “No, it is for you. I wrote it,” I said. 

            “You wrote it?”

            Most people don’t believe they are talking to the author. I assured her that I did write it and told her why. 

            At baggage claim, she invited me to visit her home so she could show me around. I have no idea if we will meet again, but I am confident God placed her in my life that day.  

Over and over, I have met grieving people on planes, at church, in my neighborhood, in parking lots…

Loving Father, thank you for answering prayers. Help us notice people around us who need a listening ear, a kind word or even a book to ease their pain.

Amen

Self-sacrificing Friends

Some men came carrying a paralyzed man on a mat and tried to take him into the house to lay him before Jesus. When they could not find a way to do this because of the crowd, they went up on the roof and lowered him on his mat through the tiles into the middle of the crowd, right in front of Jesus. When Jesus saw their faith, he said, “Friend, your sins are forgiven.”

Luke 5:18-20 (NIV)

My week at the Young Life camp in Georgia immersed me into the lives of teens. Even as a grandparent figure, they welcomed me. 

            Watching the young people learn about Jesus and help each other touched my heart. 

            During our week, a group of special needs teenagers joined the able-bodied ones as all participated in the activities. One young lady sang the national anthem acapella for over six hundred people before dinner one night. The crowd cheered when she finished. 

            Each day she stood with her buddy in front of me at club. She sang, danced and made adults smile at her enthusiasm. 

            When a young man in a wheelchair entered the clubroom with his friends, they helped him get down steps to be with the other students. At the end of the program, one would retrieve his wheelchair and push him away. Their kindness and service showed the love of Jesus. 

            Those friends made sure he enjoyed all aspects of camp. During western night, he was placed in line for the Virginia reel. Partners swirled around him so he could be part of the dance. 

            The following day his friends accomplished something I didn’t even try. A long, steep climb to the top of the mountain gave trekkers an opportunity to see the incredible view. Even though I would have loved to observe the panorama, my asthma kept me on the less strenuous trail. 

            The hike was known to be challenging but they endured the climb while carrying their friend in a sling over two poles on their shoulders.  They ignored their own obstacles to give him a view from the top. A second group carried a girl with a boot on her leg to the pinnacle. At least eight young men made their journey more difficult because of carrying a heavy load. 

            Their selfless actions reminded me of the men who lowered their friend through the roof to be healed by Jesus. But instead of lowering them, the teen boys carried two friends to experience Jesus. 

            When I see students violently protesting or complaining about insignificant matters, I will remember the young men who sacrificially assisted their friend all week to make his camp experience as meaningful as theirs. They truly showed the love of Jesus as they served with no thought of recognition for themselves. 

Loving Father, show us daily how we can serve sacrificially. Bless the young people who care for others and give us a beautiful example to follow.

Amen

       

Night of Laughter and Dancing

 

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Psalm 118:24 (ESV)

Close to six hundred teenagers, leaders, staff and their families, volunteer teens and adult guests formed a long procession down a dirt road to western themed night. Everyone dressed for the occasion at Sharptop Cove, a Young Life camp, in Georgia. 

            The teens had no idea what awaited them at the end of the road. But when they arrived, the fun began. Carnival games were set up for them to win tickets. They shot basketballs into hoops, footballs through hula hoops, set up bottles with a loop on a stick, knocked blocks over with a ball…When they won five tickets, they could throw a pie in their leader’s face. Five more tickets and they could spray the pie off their faces. 

            Popcorn and cotton candy were also available. No cost for anything and there was lots of laughing as music played.       After a while, students were instructed to form two lines-one of boys and one of girls. They circled behind a small barn and out the front. Couples were formed from the two lines and instructed to sit in groups of sixteen. The announcer told them to ask their partner where they were from and get to know each other while they waited for everyone to pair off. 

            Four couples then demonstrated how to do a simple square dance. The dancers stood and began the Virginia Reel. When someone didn’t know where to go, others told them. They laughed and moved down the line. Students came from Texas, Tennessee, Indiana, Ohio, Louisiana, and North Carolina. Some were from affluent neighborhoods and others from the inner city. Some were black and others were white. The differences didn’t matter. They grabbed hands and danced. 

            Probably most of them had never done that type of dancing. But they joined in and had a great time with people they had never met. 

            When I watched the group, my heart was full. Unlike the world we had escaped for a while, no one was left out. No one was putting anyone down for being different. Hundreds of young people became kids with no problems delighting in the evening.

            With no phones for a week, the teenagers focused on being present and enjoying activities at camp. I pray that they will remember the joy of camp and learning how to love each other and God.

Loving Father, continue to be with those who attended camp and help them see how much God loves them. Change lives and strengthen the faith of those who accepted Jesus. Work in each life.

Amen

The Man with the Wrinkled Cardboard Sign

Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters. Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it. Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.

Hebrews 13:1-3 (NIV)

The light turned red. A man holding a folded-up cardboard sign stood between lanes of cars and looked into an open car window. When he shuffled to the median next to me, I remembered there was a bag for such a situation in my car. 

            My hand reached behind my seat to try to find it in the nest of cloth shopping bags. Miraculously, I grabbed it on the first attempt. 

            I kept watching the traffic light to be sure it remained red. My arm held the bag out to the man in weathered clothes as he neared me. 

            “Thank you,” he said. He looked at the bottle of water and granola bar and back to me. 

            “That man… He said… I have to go lie down.” He couldn’t finish.  

            My heart broke as tears glazed his eyes. 

            “I am not a bad person. I don’t steal.”

            We locked eyes. The light changed and we moved apart forever. 

            Why did the driver feel he should berate the guy who hadn’t yelled, been disrespectful or violent? But he voiced upsetting words to an already forlorn fellow. The consequences of his actions would never be known to him but devastated his target. 

            All the way home, the sadness and tears of the anguished soul burdened my heart. No matter what caused him to stand on streets hoping for handouts, he was still a man loved by God. He didn’t deserve the abuse. 

            The homeless aren’t always treated badly but more often ignored. Overlooked as though they are nothing. 

            No matter the circumstances people find themselves in, we can be kind and show the love of Jesus. 

            That man and I will probably never see each other again but I hope our brief interaction gave him a bit of encouragement and hope. 

            At home, I started filling plastic bags because I never know when they will be needed. Of course, a smile and kind word are readily available without a bag. 

Loving God, show us who needs a kind word, smile and encouragement. Guide us to help those who are in difficult circumstances and to not look down on the trampled.

Amen

Seeing Clearly

Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature^[ God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature^[of a servant, being made in human likeness.

Philippians 2:1-7 (NIV)

White dotted mounds of green glitter in the sunshine. Gleaming insects flitter above the lake. White spots on slender stems wave in the breeze near the water. Masses of emerald on tall trees quiver with the wind. 

            Nothing in my view toward the lake is clear. Since cataract surgery, my distance eye’s clarity declined. Only glasses bring far away objects into focus. 

Since I remembered my crystal-clear sight after LASIK several years ago, I assumed the outcome would be the same. Unfortunately, that did not happen. Eye drops and glasses help but do not solve the problem. Of course, I long to see better but am learning to adapt.

            As I look out toward my lovely view, I know I am not seeing its actual beauty but only a blurry image. 

            What else have I missed? Do I observe the pain and hurt in eyes around me? Do I discern who could use a hug or word of encouragement? Do I neglect to share with people who are searching for Jesus? Do I pass by someone when I should stop to check on them? None of these would improve with eyeglasses. 

            Perhaps busyness, selfishness or lack of confidence cloud my field of vision and distract me from what God wants me to do. 

            When I pray for God’s direction, the eyes of my heart can see more clearly with love and compassion. 

Father, help me to truly see and care of those I come in contact with including those I know and those I meet briefly. Guide me to follow your will.

Amen

Caring for Plants and People

Love is patient, love is kind, it is not envious. Love does not brag, it is not puffed up. It is not rude, it is not self-serving, it is not easily angered or resentful. It is not glad about injustice, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NET)

Orchids, spider plants, succulents, peace lilies, basil… fill areas of my patio. Plant stands hold several varieties. Large pots contain foliage reaching towards the ceiling. Smaller ones have a variety of herbs. Christmas cactus wait for winter to sprout blooms from each pointed leaf. Aloe fan out from clay pots. 

            My attempts to provide the right water, sunlight and nutrients often fall short. A few hardy specimens need a small amount of water and aren’t picky about sunlight. 

            Once a week, orchids soak for several minutes in a tub. Then they drip before returning to their containers. 

            Aloe require an occasional drink. Herbs dry quickly so need small but frequent waterings. 

            Ceramic flowerpots with a mixture of foliage pose a problem. Some of the plants wilt while the rest seem fine. Do I water for the wilted ones or would that be too much for the more hardy ones?  

            I enjoy my assortment of greenery but caring for them takes time and discernment of what they need. Sometimes the results are not the best. 

            A wide assortment of friends and family members, require time and discernment for how to nurture and love too.  

            A few independent ones only need occasional encouragement to thrive. Most require a more regular schedule of care. However, a smaller number demand constant affirmation and guidance. 

            Because we interact with others, we need to realize every person is a unique creation.  God designed different temperaments, gifts, and abilities. 

            We can’t expect everyone to be just like us or the way we would like them to be. 

            But we can love, guide and care for them like Jesus. Help them live according to God’s will and not ours. 

Heavenly Father, how amazing that you have created distinctive individuals. Show us how to bring out the best in each person as we use our own gifts and talents.

Amen

Moving the Tassels

Teach a child how to follow the right way; even when he is old, he will stay on course.

Proverbs 22:6 (The Voice)

A sea of blue flowed into the sanctuary as graduates processed down the aisle to the stage. Family members and friends searched faces to find their senior. 

            There was an air of excitement tinged with sadness. A time of youthful celebration before stepping into a world of adults. 

            As each graduate’s name was called, the student stepped forward. Parents joined them while a student narrated video of each one played. A progression of pictures showed for every student growth from babes, toddlers, young children and into teens. 

            Hugs and tears accompanied the diploma and a yellow rose given to the parents. 

            Students revealed their love for God and their families in the videos and speeches by three graduates. Obviously, strong relationships united the school and families. 

            Instead of angry protests and hateful speeches, love and a sense of community filled the room. The audience celebrated accomplishments and supported the class as they looked to the future. 

            Many received scholarships to help as they moved to a variety of schools and careers in science, education, missions, business, cosmetology, nursing, engineering, songwriting, theater, psychology, firefighting…

            Opportunities await as they loosen grips on cherished friendships and a tight knit school to spread their wings in new endeavors. 

            All over the country, students are moving tassels to signify moving on. Students at ICS have received their education in a Christian environment. 

But not all students have the blessing of godly support from family and friends. Some reach the age of graduation but never finish. They will probably face more obstacles and uncertainty. 

            All young people in late teens and twenties will be making adult decisions. 

Loving Father, guide the young people here and around the world as they enter adulthood. Provide people to support, pray and love them. Help them know Jesus, pray often and share the Gospel with those around them. Be with parents as they learn to lovingly let go of their precious children.

Amen

 

Blessings Even in Darkness

For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ. But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.

2 Corinthians 4: 5-7 (NIV)

Rain slapped the roof of my patio. Wind churned the lake and whipped the trees. Thunder rumbled. What welcome sounds after months of barely a drizzle. I didn’t mind a storm as long as rain accompanied it. 

            My view had included brown grass, droopy flowers and lower lake level so I longed for refreshing.  

            In the predawn darkness, I only heard the crescendo and decrescendo of the rain. Thunder grew louder and closer. But thankfulness filled me as the showers increased. 

            Even though blackness blocked seeing the rain, I knew the lawn, trees and flowers devoured the life-giving gift. 

            Dawn would bring reality to my vision. The lake level would be up. Dust and pollen would be washed away. Leaves would sparkle in the sunshine. Limp blooms would wave. My garden would be cleansed and invigorated.  

            Even in the darkness, rain restores and exhilarates. 

            In the same way, we often don’t see God working but observe the results. 

            A friend’s recent scan revealed no cancer even though a previous one showed multiple tumors. Peace overtakes anxiety in difficult situations. Kindness appears in the midst of grief. A prodigal child calls home. A family is reunited. The list could go on and on as we remember. 

            Just as I am thankful for the revitalizing rain, I am thankful for the blessings God brings, especially during our dark times.    

Loving Father, thank you for the times you work in our lives in unseen but amazing ways. Help us look for you and share how you bless us. 

Amen