Abandoned, Ripped and Scattered

 Abandoned, Ripped and Scattered

Rebecca Carpenter      

September 24, 2025

Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
    he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God^[c];
    he is my mighty rock, my refuge. Trust in him at all times, you people;

 pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.

Psalm 62:5-8 (NIV)

Hymns filled my car with soothing music as I drove to church early on Sunday. A number of cars joined me. 

            Soon after getting onto the interstate, I noticed a totally out of place boat resting in the grass beside the road. 

            About a mile further, an empty car sat on the shoulder. Before my exit, I noticed six more vehicles abandoned along the highway as cars whizzed by. 

            In three spots, rubber fragments littered the road from blown tires. 

            A steady stream of traffic passed by the boat, cars and debris but no one stopped to check them out. We all kept going to our destinations. Maybe most drivers hardly noticed. 

            The boat made me think of those who feel out of place. Perhaps trying to fit in but never succeeding. Each car reminded me of people abandoned by loved ones, friends, co-workers ... The tire remnants evoked memories of broken lives scattered and ripped apart. 

             

            Over the years, I have had times of each scenario; feeling out of place, abandoned and ripped apart. However, God has been with me, held me close and offered unconditional love.  

            My faith has grown during my tribulations. Because of what I have experienced, I can understand and comfort people who are hurting and grieving. 

As Christians we can influence people as we faithfully serve with the love of Jesus. 

Heavenly Father, thank you for being with us in our hardships. Lead us in the way you want us to go. Increase our faith and help us be more like Jesus.

Amen

Beginning and Ending

Brothers and sisters, we want you to be fully informed about those who have fallen asleep in death so that you will not be overwhelmed with grief like those who live outside of the true hope. Here’s what we believe: since Jesus died and rose again, in the same way, God will bring with Jesus all who have died through Him.

1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 (Voice)

Joyous music filled the sanctuary. A line of new believers moved onto the stage. One by one they stepped into the large tub, affirmed their belief in Jesus and were lowered into the water. Emerging from the water, they were symbolically raised to new life in Jesus. What a glorious experience for those getting baptized and congregants watching the celebration. 

            After church, I attended a memorial service for a neighbor. Uplifting music and words from family and friends spoke of his legacy. Of course, there was grief since he is no longer here but joy knowing he is now with Jesus. 

            In a few hours, I experienced the beginning of lives with Jesus and the culmination of a life well lived following Jesus to heaven. 

            For those who have accepted Jesus as their Savior, there is an assurance of eternal life with Him. 

Heavenly Father, guide us as we follow the path You have planned for us. Open eyes and hearts to know You fully.

Amen

The Empty Mall

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. 

In all your ways acknowledge and he will make straight your paths. 

Be not wise in your own eyes;
    fear the Lord, and turn away from evil.

 It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.

Proverbs 3:4-5 (NIV)

My eyes glanced at the massive structure near the highway as I drove to church. Years ago, shoppers flocked to the new mall and strolled from store to store. 

            Vendors passed out tasty samples at the food court. Cars filled the parking lots. People drove from nearby and other cities to experience the numerous venues. 

            From the outside, the building looked worn but basically the same. Only three or four businesses remain open. Four or five cars parked in the expansive lots. 

            The property had been sold and extravagant plans released more than once. Who knows when changes will happen and what they will actually be.

            The vacant mall reminded me of depleted lives. On the outside only minor changes show and they may appear normal. But inside, there is hollowness. Dreams and ambitions sucked out. Anxiety, divorce, death, addictions and other painful situations purged purpose and stripped away hope. 

            We can be like the useless mall with no purpose, loneliness and shattered dreams. 

            But if we lean on Jesus, He holds us tightly, lifts us up and guides us. 

Father, in our times of sadness and despair, show us how to regain purpose and follow your plan.

Amen

An Unforeseen Missionary

My dear friends, don’t let public opinion influence how you live out our glorious, Christ-originated faith. If a man enters your church wearing an expensive suit, and a street person wearing rags comes in right after him, and you say to the man in the suit, “Sit here, sir; this is the best seat in the house!” and either ignore the street person or say, “Better sit here in the back row,” haven’t you segregated God’s children and proved that you are judges who can’t be trusted? Listen, dear friends. Isn’t it clear by now that God operates quite differently? He chose the world’s down-and-out as the kingdom’s first citizens, with full rights and privileges. This kingdom is promised to anyone who loves God. And here you are abusing these same citizens!

James 2:1-5 (MSG)

On my early morning drive to church, a pastor on the radio preached about James 2. At the exit from the highway, I pondered his message. 

            On many occasions, men begged at that stoplight but rarely on my way to church. However, that day, a man holding a sign that said-God bless you- stood near my car. 

            I averted my eyes from him as my mind quickly thought of beggars who try to guilt drivers by writing messages about God on their cardboard signs. Then a nudge by the Holy Spirit reminded me of the bag in my backseat. I grabbed a plastic bag with a bottle of water, granola bar and devotional. The man smiled as he took the gift. 

            The delayed light gave us time to talk. “Thank you,” he said. “God bless you.” 

            “I am on my way to church,’’ I replied. 

            A huge smile spread across his face as he raised his hands toward the sky. “I go to church at 9:30 at Sanlando. Do you go there?” 

            “No, I go to Northland,” I answered as the light changed.

            Our short, but meaningful exchange, played over and over in my mind and touched my heart. What perfect timing with the Scripture from James and the man by the road. 

            I have no idea why he was at the corner but his sign was sincere. I could have ignored him and missed an important lesson God had for me. 

            As a greeter at church, people enter who are dressed well, some rather shabby and all kinds in-between. Outward appearances mask what is inside whether they wear fancy clothes or well-worn ones. 

            I was almost like the priest who passed the beaten man on the road as he hurried to perform his priestly duties. I could have passed him since I was on my way to church to serve those who entered our building. 

            My job isn’t to judge but to welcome them all like Jesus whether I am volunteering at church or in the community. 

Loving Father, help us to be kind in all types of situations. You know what people are going through when we don’t. Open our hearts to love those around us even when it is difficult.

Amen

 

       

A Different Kind of Mission

“Do not remember the former things, Nor consider the things of old.

Behold, I will do a new thing, Now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it?
I will even make a road in the wilderness And rivers in the desert.

Isaiah 43: 18-19 (NKJV)

Candles twinkled on the tables. The aroma of delicious food filled the air.  Friends waited for Pastor Robert and Rose to descend the stairs for their surprise anniversary party. 

            Music played as the couple from Uganda were showered with love by American friends. Team members from mission trips, one of their sons, and other friends welcomed them. 

            The humble couple told a little of their stories and how thankful they were for each other and how God has worked in their lives. 

            Each attendee said a few words about the couple. It was evident they had touched many lives. My husband, Alan, had met them on a trip to Uganda several years ago after he was diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis. 

            Memories of mission trips flooded my mind that night. The love of the couple made me miss Alan more than normal. They definitely displayed the love of Jesus to each other and those around them. 

            A couple of days later, I attended a lunch for the Brazilian mission trip members to share their experiences. Once again, friends and family members listened to testimonies of changed lives for the Brazilians and Americans. 

            Pictures of the boat on the Amazon reminded me of when Alan and I served there. Each story shared brought back memories of when we distributed reading glasses and sunglasses to residents along the river who had very little access to health care.  

            A team member’s story brought me back to the present when she said she was a widow. One day on the trip, she spoke with a widow who wanted to see well enough to read her Bible. A couple of team members left and returned to the boat. They came back with a pair of glasses so the lady could read. 

            That incident touched my heart because the ladies were also widows, and because I had donated reading glasses from the boxes Alan had left me. No longer did I wonder if anyone had given them out. Alan’s legacy lived on. My heart smiled. 

After lunch, Pastor Gus showed me an email he had just received from Pastor Patrick in South Sudan. He planned to be in the US and asked if I had any glasses.  Alan had given out hundreds while on a mission there.

As Alan prepared to see Jesus, he told me that there were enough glasses for four mission trips. However, I had only gone on one since he passed away. Each year, I think about the trips and remember how we traveled around the world. During the mission talks, I regretted that I had not continued our yearly mission trips.  

Then I realized that time and age change situations. As I near eighty, my body isn’t as adaptable or healthy as it used to be. However, I realized that instead of going on missions, I can continue to supply donations and support those who do go. The glasses in my garage will be put to good use around the world as others distribute them. 

Perhaps there will be an easier trip in my future but if not, I look forward to how God will lead me to serve others from home both nearby and overseas.  

Look around. Who can you serve today?

Heavenly Father, you have gifts and work for each of us to do no matter our ages. Show us your plans and help us accept that we can’t always do what we want to do but give us wisdom to obey what you want. Because you bless us, we can bless others. 

Amen

Expectations on My Trip and at Home

          

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

Colossians 3:17 NIV

Home. Peace and contentment enveloped me as I sat on my patio after a wonderful trip to parks and monuments out West. After a week of constant activity in different time zones, my body struggled to adapt to being back in Florida. 

            My mind replayed delightful experiences of snow-covered mountains, exquisite land formations and wild animals. Every day brought treasured memories. 

            Alan and I traveled all over the world, but after he passed away, my traveling trickled to almost nothing. He loved arranging journeys and taking care of all the details. But alone, I lost the joy of touring. 

            However, the recent trip out West with my friend, Carol, revived my enthusiasm for exploring. Joining a tour group allowed me to enjoy the trip with others taking the responsibility for planning.

            Carol and I faced the journey without our spouses. We shared previous experiences made with our husbands as we created new memories together. As widows, we relived happy times and grieved losses and realized everyone faces an uncertain future. Therefore, we decided to make the most of each day given to us. Whether we are at home or far away, God is with us.

            My algae covered lake surrounded by alluring trees certainly wasn’t a stunning, mountain scene but it brings me peace daily. 

            At home, there is no daily schedule of fascinating adventures, but I want to keep the sense of expectation for each day. In whatever situation we find ourselves, we can learn to be grateful and excited for what lies ahead. 

Father, as we confront unknown situations, give us a sense of adventure and peace in our joys and challenges. Guide us every day for whatever we face.

Amen

Scrambling Squirrels

God spoke: “Swarm, Ocean, with fish and all sea life! Birds, fly through the sky over Earth!” God created the huge whales, all the swarm of life in the waters,
And every kind and species of flying birds. God saw that it was good.
God blessed them: “Prosper! Reproduce! Fill Ocean! Birds, reproduce on Earth!”
It was evening, it was morning—Day five.
God spoke: “Earth, generate life! Every sort and kind: cattle and reptiles and wild animals—all kinds.” And there it was:wild animals of every kind,
Cattle of all kinds, every sort of reptile and bug.
 God saw that it was good.

Genesis 1: 20-25 MSG

Scrambling squirrels distracted me. When I began reading my Bible, sounds of scampering critters caused me to look up. For several minutes, I watched their fascinating exhibition. 

            When we moved into our new home years ago, spindly trees lined the shore. They produced little food and offered no hiding place for squirrels. When friends complained about the pesky ruffians, I had no gripes since none came to my yard. 

            However, time changed that. Bald cypress towered over my yard. The oak spread its limbs higher than the roof. Somehow, the squirrels learned about the changed environment. 

            A few squirrels would appear and run around the area. Then, a whole community of the creatures raced around my trees and yard in a frenzy. 

            Instead of merely darting from tree to tree, they developed a unique combination of running a few steps and then leaping higher than their bodies like tiny gymnasts. 

            Over and over, pairs would circle trunks in a game of tag. They tore through limbs, dropped to the ground, and ran to another tree. 

            I searched high above me to see leaves jiggle with their antics. The elevations, compared to their small stature, would be like me scaling the Empire State Building. They leapt from limb to limb and tree to tree at incredible heights with no hesitation. 

            Youngsters tried to keep up with the older ones as they bolted across the grass. A trio stopped to dance in a circle before resuming their race. 

            Their energy and constant movement astounded me. Occasionally, they growled or squealed at each other. 

            Tiny feet grasped the bark whether going up or down. Dizziness must not have affected their downward runs. Not one fell to the ground. 

            I had no idea why the small number quickly turned into a whole village. They provided enjoyment, amazement, and inspiration. 

            They persevered despite obstacles and faced the fear of their surroundings. In addition, they used the way God made them to fulfill His purpose. 

            As I prepared to go inside, a rabbit stopped to look at me, and a pair of Monarch butterflies flitted around my yard. More evidence of the beauty of God’s creation that continues to teach and amaze me. How thankful I am. 

Creator, the intricacies and abundance in creation delight and overwhelm me. I am filled with thankfulness for what You have provided. You constantly teach through nature.

Amen

       

 

Sunshine and Rain

Retrieved from my archive

And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.

1 Peter 5:10-11 ESV

            Like a swarm of buzzing bees, the drone of rain enclosed my home. Morning light failed to break through the heavy clouds. A dismal dawn welcomed me.

            For over an hour, rain poured down. It hit the lake, my house, and garden. Gradually, the intensity lessened. Light drops pattered on the roof.

            Rain and gloom had replaced the previous day’s bright sunshine and dancing flowers. Instead of despair and discouragement, thankfulness filled me. Each flower drank its fill. The showers washed away dust and pollen. Much needed moisture restored my lawn and energized my garden.

            With only sunshine and clear skies, vegetation would dry up. But combined with rain, it flourishes. 

            In every life, there are times of sunshine and periods of rain. Though darkness and depression may linger, bright days will return when you trust in Jesus. 

Dear Jesus, give us strength and peace as we experience times of sunshine and periods of rain.

Amen

 

My Tranquil Cocoon

His house is my shelter and secret retreat.
    It is there I find peace in the midst of storm and turmoil.
Safety sits with me in the hiding place of God.
    He will set me on a rock, high above the fray.

Psalm 27:5 (The Voice)

Frothy waves tumbled to the shore from the expansive ocean. A fiery ball rose from the water and created a brilliant path of light from the cloudy sky to the beach. Pockets of blue burst through the haze.  

            From a high balcony, I looked down on a miniature world. 

Birds, hidden within palms and palmettos in the beachside park, sang melodious songs. A few walkers meandered along the boardwalk amid the foliage. Gopher tortoises peaked out from their homes. 

            Early risers strolled the shore. Sunlight reflected from car windows off and on like the lighthouse across the inlet. Surfers ventured into calm water to try to catch a wave but their rides were short. 

            The peaceful scene enthralled me and encased me like a tranquil cocoon. If only I could remain in my serene retreat to escape hearing and experiencing tragedies of the world. 

            From my vantage point six floors up, I didn’t encounter reality. No arguments or unkind words drifted to my ears. Distance blinded my eyes to glares and frowns. Everything below me seemed charming and blissful. 

            Even though the idyllic panorama remained the same, my focus changed. Not seeing nor hearing the tensions and problems did not erase them. Hurtful conversations remained. However, my ears also missed kindness and loving words. No hugs nor kisses could be seen. 

            The people below me drifted away as I rested and relaxed in the beauty of God’s creation. Soothing ocean waves and an azure sky brought assurance. I rested and relaxed in the beauty of God’s creation. There will always be trials and chaos in our world but within the midst of them, God provides peace, comfort and healing. 

Father, thank you for the beauty that surrounds us even when we experience challenges. Give us peace in our trials.

Amen

 

The Flowers

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. ¹⁰ Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

Galatians 6:9-10 (NIV)

Vases of flowers filled my counter at Valentines Day. The bouquets went to friends in my community. 

            Later, I bought more flowers for friends who lived farther away. At the library where I volunteered, two friends received daises and roses. When another lady didn’t show up that day, the gift needed another home. 

            As I carried the yellow mums to the car, I knew who it would be. My friend, Sallie, and I often head to Culvers after working at the library. We had talked to a lady who worked there. 

            A few months earlier when the restaurant was almost empty, we shared our stories. That day she didn’t smile like she normally did. I could tell something was bothering her. 

            “This is the anniversary of when my husband passed away,” she said. I understood and told her of my journey of grief. 

            “I will pray for you,” I said when I gave her a copy of my book about grief. 

            At Christmas, my granddaughter, Molly, and I took her some homemade cookies. Every time I visited, I looked for her. 

            That day, I walked around looking for the elusive worker. She was looking for me to give me my order. 

       “These are for you.” Her smile widened when I handed her the yellow flowers. “Yellow is my favorite color. Thank you so much.”

            While Sallie and I ate, the grateful lady kept stopping to thank me and see if there was anything we needed. 

            As we were eating our custard, she returned. “The flowers are beautiful,” she said. With her hand over her heart, she continued. “But you noticed me. You thought of me. I wasn’t just a lady cleaning tables.”

            Her words touched my heart. I wanted to make her smile with the flowers but the gesture went much deeper. 

            Even though I often talk to people who serve me in the community at stores, doctor offices…, many times I am in a hurry or distracted. They probably feel invisible. 

            Her heartfelt words taught me that small acts of kindness make a difference. To love and serve like Jesus, we need to be aware of those around us. A kind word, smile or vase of flowers might change someone’s day. 

            I had no idea she would be getting my third bouquet that day but the Holy Spirit nudged me to give it to her. I am thankful I listened. 

Loving Father, help us notice those who may be feeling lonely and unappreciated. Guide us and teach us to love others.

Amen

 

An Unconnected Loner

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

On my daily walk, I noticed a sandhill crane by the sidewalk. The stately gray birds frequent my neighborhood but that one was unusual. Instead of walking the streets with a mate and two youngsters, it was alone.

            Each spring pairs of cranes stroll our streets with two offspring since both parents care for their young. After hatching, the babes resemble fluffy ducklings. Soon their legs lengthen and they become more like their parents in color and size. 

            Parents teach them to root in the grass for food. The foursomes roam and provide joy to residents. Cars and bikes stop to allow them to cross streets or at times, to linger in the roadways. 

            With identical coloring, I couldn’t tell if the solitary crane was a male or female. Every time I saw it, I scanned the area for other companions. Unfortunately, none appeared. The offspring would have matured and taken off. Since sandhill cranes mate for life, its partner must have died. The single bird was totally alone. 

            The bird searched for food but appeared downcast. No sound. No flapping of wings or looking around. Just trying to survive. 

            I can understand the devastation of losing a loving spouse. A partner is gone. Missing. A part of the heart is ripped out.

            But thankfully, we aren’t alone if we believe in Jesus. He holds us tightly and gives peace. Strength comes when we feel we have none. 

            God often sends people into our lives to offer comfort, companionship and friendship. Some become special friends and others may become new partners who all ease the loneliness. 

            The sad bird reminds me of how grateful I am for how God has continued to provide for me. Because of my own grief, I can comfort those who mourn. My faith has grown during my times of solitude. 

Father, you give us what we need during our periods of loneliness, grief and pain. But you don’t leave us alone in our challenges.

Amen

            

Wipe the Slate Clean

This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope.

Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed,
Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.

Lamentations 3:21-23 (NKJV)

Darkness covered the lake like a slate blackboard as snatches of light peeped behind the trees. 

            After dusk, night had overtaken day. But morning wiped the slate clean like an eraser on an old-fashioned blackboard. 

            A pink sunrise signaled dawn. Birds joined together in joyful songs. 

God brings new beginnings every morning. We have choices to make. Rehashing hurts and problems of the past bring unnecessary misery. Looking forward to opportunities and being thankful yields peace and joy.

            Wake up to a thankful heart. Practice gratitude to God for our blessings. Thank and encourage people near and far.  Receive guidance, peace and encouragement from reading the Bible daily. Listen to uplifting music. Use your gifts. Serve others. 

            Everyone faces difficulties but staying focused on God helps us get through our trials. 

Loving Father, like night turning to day, you wipe our slates clean too. Your mercies are new every morning. Thank you for not giving up on us.

Amen

            

Go into the World

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV)

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Acts 1:8

An unlikely, diverse group of twelve young men followed Jesus for three years. He taught and they listened. Even though they were all Jewish, their temperaments and backgrounds varied. He gathered men from northern Israel and molded them into a team who would spread the Gospel throughout the Roman Empire. 

            Only Jesus knew how they would be transformed from humble, mostly uneducated, teens into bold evangelists. He knew their potential when they didn’t. 

            Small groups and churches are often similar to that unimaginable group. With differing religious backgrounds, ages and cultures, people can come together to learn more about Jesus and His Word. During difficult times, they embrace and comfort one another. Also they join together in celebrating.

            However, Jesus never meant for the disciples to only meet together and become friends. His plan was to spread the Good News to those in Israel, both Jew and gentile, and to those beyond its borders. His command to the followers was to make disciples wherever people were. 

            Their journeys were not easy or predictable. However, except for Judas, they obeyed. People often accepted their teachings but many rejected and even persecuted them. 

Jesus’ command applies to us too. When God calls us, He leads but never promises the journey will be smooth. 

Loving Father, thank you for teachers and friends who help us grow. Show us how to study the Bible and learn more about your plans for us. Encourage us to reach out to those near and far who need You.

Amen