A Mysterious Masterpiece

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Romans 12:2 (NIV)

Because chilly weather and a crummy cold kept me inside for a few weeks, my lakeside retreat brought joy and surprises when I finally emerged. Everything seemed new and fascinating. 

            Limbs on nearly naked cypress trees stretched to the sky. Normally hidden nests, snuggled on high boughs. 

            Dew drops sparkled on green grass and other foliage. Pink blooms dotted an azalea plant. Tiny waves wrinkled the dark lake. In the distance, a bird warbled a morning tune. 

            Along the shoreline, bare trees mingled with evergreens. The winter Florida scene, though less colorful than other seasons, revealed its own unique beauty. 

            Bordering my patio, orange flowers caught my eyes. A few stalks of the hearty specimen retained their summer beauty. Another lovely surprise captured my attention. 

            A mysterious sparkle appeared at the tip of one stem. A spider’s unique creation encircled the drab green vegetation. Its delicate web formed a crystal-like lacework which connected several stalks. The bowl-shaped cobweb glittered in the morning sunlight. 

            Even though I had observed many lovely webs, none compared to its complexity and beauty. Up close and without the sunshine, there was little luster, and it certainly didn’t stand out. 

            If I had stayed inside or only studied my books, the spectacular display would have passed unnoticed. I would have missed the spider’s masterpiece. The spider had disappeared, but its creation remained for me to enjoy. 

            In our busy lives, we often overlook the gifts that God provides around us. Perhaps it is a sunset, flowers, or people we love. If we are so focused on daily tasks, our problems, or dwelling in the past, we fail to delight in how God is working around us in both small and large ways. 

Creator, thank you for providing surprise miracles for us to enjoy. Help us take time to appreciate all we have and what you have done for us.

Amen

A Little But Powerful Light

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.

Matthew 5:14-15  NIV

Years ago, candles frequently burned in my home. After doctors diagnosed Alan’s lung condition, cabinets held my supply.. Their odors and flames were not compatible with his diseased lungs and oxygen supply. 

            Recently, when my granddaughter, Molly, wanted a new candle, I offered for her to check my collection. Then I decided it was time to start using them again. 

            While stuck on the couch with a cold, I decided to bring light to a dreary day. A red candle in a glass case glowed in the dim room. 

            The flame danced back and forth. Then it rose above the top of the container. Even though I felt no breeze, something made the fire move gracefully. 

            The tiny blaze fascinated me with its constant movements in the darkened room. My eyes remained on the delightful show. 

            The taper reminded me that as Christians, we are to be beacons in a dark world. We might flicker and be pushed back and forth by difficult situations but not extinguished. If we live for Jesus, we will shine so that those in the world will see we are different because of Him.  

Lord, show us how to live as a bright light in darkness. Give us strength to remain strong even when those around us are consumed by the world. Guide us each day to be more like you.

Amen

Unappreciated Roles

This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about^[a]: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. ¹⁹ Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet^[ did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.  She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus,^[c] because he will save his people from their sins.”All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet:  “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel”^[d] (which means “God with us”).

Matthew 1:18-23 (NIV)

 

Conflicting thoughts swirled in Joseph’s head after Mary’s scandalous announcement. Never had he imagined Mary would betray him and become pregnant. As hurtful as the news had been, Joseph didn’t seek revenge but decided to quietly divorce her. 

            The disturbing situation brought restless sleep. Then an intense dream appeared. 

            An angel spoke to Joseph. “Don’t be afraid to take Mary as your wife. She’s not pregnant from another man but miraculously from the Holy Spirit. Name Him Jesus who will save His people.”

            With no argument, Joseph obeyed even when it was difficult. Neighbors whispered when Mary’s condition became apparent. Unwelcome stares greeted the couple from villagers.

            Joseph knew their arduous journey to Bethlehem would be hard for Mary. When they finally arrived, crowds flooded the village. Anxiously, he searched for suitable accommodations, but none could be found. Finally, a room with the animals was offered to the weary couple. Although it wasn’t what he hoped for, the young man was thankful to find a place where Mary could rest and deliver her precious son.  

            A marvelous birth occurred when Jesus entered our world on that glorious night. Angels, wise men, shepherds, and Mary were prominent characters in the Christmas story.

            Even though little is written about Joseph’s obedience, faithfulness, and determination in carrying out God’s plan, he was chosen to be the earthly father and played an unassuming but significant role. 

            We encounter people who faithfully and quietly serve with little recognition. Sometimes we may feel unappreciated or unnoticed. But we can all still be an important participant in God’s purpose.

Lord, help us to obey when it is hard or when we feel ignored. Some people are in the spotlight and others in supporting roles. Show us how all are important. 

Amen

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