Offended yet again, I shut off the computer and walk away. I had avoided facebook for weeks, while contemplating what to do with it. Delete my account? Block some “friends”? Each time I visited the site, I would go away cringing. Though the good in facebook kept compelling me back. It works well to keep up with family and dear friends who I would otherwise have no contact with on a day to day basis. If only people would think before they typed…
This time as I walked away from the computer I was more upset at myself than the people on the other side. Why was it bothering me so? Aggravated at myself for being aggravated, out the door I went for a stroll. I took only two steps before releasing my built up complaints to the throne room of Heaven. I walked and talked letting my heart overflow with honesty to my Father. I shared my thoughts with Him, every last one of them. And then I paused, ending my rant with sincere question, “Do you get offended, Lord? Or are you just so full of grace…?” I couldn’t go on. The words stuck in my throat for my heart already knew the answer.
If God were to get offended, wouldn’t He constantly be offended? Is there ever a moment void of evil somewhere? If people’s thoughtless comments offend me, a sinner, how much more would my thoughts offend a holy Christ? Does He ever avoid me because I displease Him? Does He turn me off and come back later when my thoughts may not be so insulting? Or get so tired of my ramblings that He considers “un-friending” me? It brought tears at the mere thought of it.
I have yet to decide if there is some middle ground here. Are there things worth taking offense too so evil doesn’t thrive? I’m not sure. As far as my “friends” and facebook goes… I have decided if I am going to error, it will be on the side of extending grace instead of getting irritated. One small way my heart can better reflect my Master’s.
Now to go pray about my time management issues and facebook…
"From the fullness of His grace we have all received one blessing after another." John 1:16
Showing posts with label Devotional. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Devotional. Show all posts
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Friday, May 8, 2009
Nothing Can Separate Us
Have you ever heard something your entire life but than all of a sudden you really hear it? It doesn't just get stuck in your ear but sinks into your brain...or maybe it's your heart.
That happened to me tonight.
I had the privilege of hearing Lisa Whelchel speak at a local church this evening. It was casual and lighthearted. She was fun and transparent. I was captivated by her testimony. So different than mine, and yet...the same.
She told details of how our brain and emotions are tied together. Scientific details that I would mess up if I tried to retell. How God has designed for one to go with the other. It is not just enough to know what we know, but we have to feel what we know to truly believe it.
Before I confuse myself any further...this is what I carried home tonight. This was my slap my hand on my forehead moment. My "How in the world have I not got this yet?" moment.
As if I had never heard it before, Lisa said something like this:
We are told over and over how sin separates us from God - and it does. He is holy and our sin keeps us from having a relationship with Him. But. BUT Jesus. Once we have Jesus in our lives, covering our sin...NOTHING, NOTHING can separate us from Him.
A light bulb went off in my head! That is scripture I have read how many times? "Nothing can separate us." Yet how many times a day do I beat myself up for failing...and not just failing but failing AGAIN. For losing my patience AGAIN. For not spending time in His Word AGAIN. For forgetting to pray AGAIN.
For...for...for...the list could on and on.
And I feel separated. I feel like He distanced Himself because of my sin. I feel I have let Him down. Disappointed Him. I can picture Him throwing His hands up in frustration. Maybe even anger.
But God's holiness (as huge as that is!!) is only half the picture. The other half is grace, clothed in flesh and called Jesus.
Without Him our sin separates us from God. With Jesus, His grace draws us near. It stoops to cover our sin. It wraps arms around us. It heals. It protects. It forgives and it loves. Always completely, never-ending love.
He doesn't want a perfect performance. He just wants me.
Amazing, amazing grace.
That happened to me tonight.
I had the privilege of hearing Lisa Whelchel speak at a local church this evening. It was casual and lighthearted. She was fun and transparent. I was captivated by her testimony. So different than mine, and yet...the same.
She told details of how our brain and emotions are tied together. Scientific details that I would mess up if I tried to retell. How God has designed for one to go with the other. It is not just enough to know what we know, but we have to feel what we know to truly believe it.
Before I confuse myself any further...this is what I carried home tonight. This was my slap my hand on my forehead moment. My "How in the world have I not got this yet?" moment.
As if I had never heard it before, Lisa said something like this:
We are told over and over how sin separates us from God - and it does. He is holy and our sin keeps us from having a relationship with Him. But. BUT Jesus. Once we have Jesus in our lives, covering our sin...NOTHING, NOTHING can separate us from Him.
A light bulb went off in my head! That is scripture I have read how many times? "Nothing can separate us." Yet how many times a day do I beat myself up for failing...and not just failing but failing AGAIN. For losing my patience AGAIN. For not spending time in His Word AGAIN. For forgetting to pray AGAIN.
For...for...for...the list could on and on.
And I feel separated. I feel like He distanced Himself because of my sin. I feel I have let Him down. Disappointed Him. I can picture Him throwing His hands up in frustration. Maybe even anger.
But God's holiness (as huge as that is!!) is only half the picture. The other half is grace, clothed in flesh and called Jesus.
Without Him our sin separates us from God. With Jesus, His grace draws us near. It stoops to cover our sin. It wraps arms around us. It heals. It protects. It forgives and it loves. Always completely, never-ending love.
He doesn't want a perfect performance. He just wants me.
Amazing, amazing grace.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Say "Thanks"
Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance and called out in a loud voice, "Jesus, Master, have pity on us!" When he saw them, he said, "Go, show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, they were cleansed. One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, "Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?" Then he said to him, "Rise and go; your faith has made you well." Luke 17:11-19
I have always kinda snubbed my nose in the direction of the "other nine". How could they be so ungrateful? How could they not even say "thank you" when they were just given an amazing gift of healing. Walking in their shoes, surely, I would have been the one to come back and say thanks.
They had leprosy after all. An incurable disease that condemned them to life alone. They were outcasts forced away from family and friends. Husbands torn away from wives. Fathers torn away from children. Declared unclean they could no longer even touch the ones they loved. Their family had mourned them as if they were dead. And they might as well had been.
But then...oh, but then they met Jesus! And He changed everything! He gave them their life back...only this time it was even better! Oh, I imagine they could hardly contain themselves as they ran to their loved ones with heart overflowing...with gratitude?
Do you suppose...could it be... just maybe...they weren't ungrateful? Maybe they could simply not wait to touch family and friends they had not had contact with in who knows how long. To hug wives, hold children, kiss away tears of joy! To share the news they are no longer dead! Share the amazing story of the One who gave them their life back!
Maybe, just maybe they were very much like me. So busy enjoying the gift...appreciating the gift...relishing in the gift...even sharing the gift, they didn't have time to say "thank you" to the One who gave them the gift in the first place.
I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Mine was...well, an answer to prayer really. My prayer today is that I never again get too wrapped up in enjoying life that I forget to stop and say "thanks" to the Giver of all good things!
I have always kinda snubbed my nose in the direction of the "other nine". How could they be so ungrateful? How could they not even say "thank you" when they were just given an amazing gift of healing. Walking in their shoes, surely, I would have been the one to come back and say thanks.
They had leprosy after all. An incurable disease that condemned them to life alone. They were outcasts forced away from family and friends. Husbands torn away from wives. Fathers torn away from children. Declared unclean they could no longer even touch the ones they loved. Their family had mourned them as if they were dead. And they might as well had been.
But then...oh, but then they met Jesus! And He changed everything! He gave them their life back...only this time it was even better! Oh, I imagine they could hardly contain themselves as they ran to their loved ones with heart overflowing...with gratitude?
Do you suppose...could it be... just maybe...they weren't ungrateful? Maybe they could simply not wait to touch family and friends they had not had contact with in who knows how long. To hug wives, hold children, kiss away tears of joy! To share the news they are no longer dead! Share the amazing story of the One who gave them their life back!
Maybe, just maybe they were very much like me. So busy enjoying the gift...appreciating the gift...relishing in the gift...even sharing the gift, they didn't have time to say "thank you" to the One who gave them the gift in the first place.
I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Mine was...well, an answer to prayer really. My prayer today is that I never again get too wrapped up in enjoying life that I forget to stop and say "thanks" to the Giver of all good things!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Mercy, Lord, Mercy!
Like a blind beggar calling out to the Savior for mercy so my heart longs to see the touch of the Merciful One on our country. I cry all the louder, longing to have Him gaze upon us with His grace. As the election nears, as the economy plummets, I daily have to force myself to remember Who rules over this entire universe. Tomorrow, come what may, God will still sit on His Heavenly throne.
From His lofty view, there is nothing hidden. He sees in its entirety the evil that hovers over our nation. He sees the evil that consumes our hearts. Even those called by His Name, covered in His blood have cheapened the price He paid for grace. Willful sins reflect our ungrateful hearts. By our unholy means we take our Lord’s Name in vain again and again.
Pointing our finger everywhere but ourselves, we look for people to hold accountable for our dire situation. The homosexuals, the pro-choice, the government, Hollywood, the church…who is at fault? Surely, it is not me.
“Out of the depths I call to You, LORD! Lord, listen to my voice; let Your ears be attentive to my cry for help. LORD, if you considered sins, Lord, who could stand?” Psalm 130:1-3
No one. No one is without sin. All have sinned and without grace, no one can stand before our holy, sinless God. The only one that carries no blame in any of this is the only One that can offer any help.
Banks crashing around us, gas and grocery prices rising, hurricanes devastating our cities, hospitals filled with the dying, and our streets are crowded with homeless. Our circumstances are like the roaring waters surrounding Peter as he attempted to walk on water. It doesn’t take a prophet to look around and realize we are sinking. We expect Congress to bail us out. We believe hope lies in a new administration.
“Look at Me!” I hear the Lord calling to us. “Stop looking at your situation and LOOK AT ME! The Maker of Heaven and Earth….the Ruler of the Universe…I AM the Only One who can rescue you.”
“I lift up my eyes to You, to You whose throne is in heaven. As the eyes of slaves look to the hand of their master…so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till He shows us His mercy. Have mercy on us, O LORD, have mercy on us…” Psalm 123:1-3
With our knees to the ground, let’s set our gazes high. Humbled and begging, let us cry out to our Savior. Only from Him comes our redemption. Only in His grace…only in Him not giving us what we deserve…only in Him can we find hope for our country. Look up! Cry out! "Mercy, Lord, mercy!"
Thursday, September 25, 2008
God Speaks
Countless times, I have heard the voice behind me telling me, "This is the way; walk in it." I have heard Him speak to me directly about big things: who I should marry, where I should work (or not work), where my children should go to school. I have heard His voice over small things: times to pray for a friend, a Bible study to take, when to speak and when to stay silent.
Lately, I have felt as if I have been walking in between Malachi and Matthew. God has been disturbingly silent.
It has not been for lack of questions. There have been MANY. I have blindly slammed my face against hard cement...only to wonder why God would have led me down that path just to be redirected so quickly.
Where do you want me, Lord? What can I do for You? Do you want me to sit quiet? Do you want me to get busy? I will do whatever, I just need to KNOW. More than anything, I need to know You are pleased with what I am doing. Please, God speak.
That was my prayer this morning. I prayed it as I got in the shower. My mind never once stopped swirling with thoughts...Is that You, Lord? Was that from You?
I busied myself with preparing my children for school. Packing lunches, dressing little bodies. Backpacks in hand, we headed out the door. As I always do as we wait through the car line, I prayed for my children...while focused on them, my own request was still very present in my mind.
I begin to blame myself. I needed to go home and hit my face. I needed to show God how desperately I needed Him.
I don't like the silence, Lord? I can't take it one more day.
Two car lines later, both kids were dropped off at school. My desire to go home was great, but I had a much needed errand to run - so I headed in that direction. My eyes took in sights all around me...hoping to gather some information...something God would use to show me where He wants me. Would it be a homeless person? A child?
Then my phone rang. God? I suppose it could have been. But it was my dear Mom making her morning call to check on me. Just small talk for a couple of minutes. Over the course of that conversation my mind had gone from searching for God's direction, to searching for the DMV. I hung up with only that on my mind.
It was then I noticed I had a text message. I usually only text my husband...so I expected it to be him. Opened it and read:
"Good morning! Just wanted to wish u a blessed day. God loves u and knows ur heart."
It was from my sweet mentor friend. She sent it without too much thought, I am guessing. A simple greeting...but it spoke volumes of Truth to my earnest heart.
"God loves u..." I have walked with God...really walked with Him for about 16 years now and just recently became very acutely aware that I have no clue how much God loves me. If I did, how much more willingly would I surrender it all to Him and trust Him fully?
"... and knows ur heart." A scary thing. Yes, my heart longs for Him like no other. It cries out, "Earth has nothing I desire but You." But my actions...ouch. They don't always portray that. Which in turn, reflects the state of my heart, doesn't it?
It wasn't where I was looking, but God did indeed speak. The message He sent me today wasn't the one I was looking for. It wasn't a billboard telling me to go to Africa or a phone call from Heaven saying I needed to stay home. I didn't get any solid directions...other than to the DMV.
But I did find peace. Not because my questions were answered. But peace in the midst of all the uncertainty. I still don't know what God wants me to do. But I do know He loves me. He knows my heart and maybe He is pleased...or maybe He just loves me anyway.
For now, I rest in that.
Lately, I have felt as if I have been walking in between Malachi and Matthew. God has been disturbingly silent.
It has not been for lack of questions. There have been MANY. I have blindly slammed my face against hard cement...only to wonder why God would have led me down that path just to be redirected so quickly.
Where do you want me, Lord? What can I do for You? Do you want me to sit quiet? Do you want me to get busy? I will do whatever, I just need to KNOW. More than anything, I need to know You are pleased with what I am doing. Please, God speak.
That was my prayer this morning. I prayed it as I got in the shower. My mind never once stopped swirling with thoughts...Is that You, Lord? Was that from You?
I busied myself with preparing my children for school. Packing lunches, dressing little bodies. Backpacks in hand, we headed out the door. As I always do as we wait through the car line, I prayed for my children...while focused on them, my own request was still very present in my mind.
I begin to blame myself. I needed to go home and hit my face. I needed to show God how desperately I needed Him.
I don't like the silence, Lord? I can't take it one more day.
Two car lines later, both kids were dropped off at school. My desire to go home was great, but I had a much needed errand to run - so I headed in that direction. My eyes took in sights all around me...hoping to gather some information...something God would use to show me where He wants me. Would it be a homeless person? A child?
Then my phone rang. God? I suppose it could have been. But it was my dear Mom making her morning call to check on me. Just small talk for a couple of minutes. Over the course of that conversation my mind had gone from searching for God's direction, to searching for the DMV. I hung up with only that on my mind.
It was then I noticed I had a text message. I usually only text my husband...so I expected it to be him. Opened it and read:
"Good morning! Just wanted to wish u a blessed day. God loves u and knows ur heart."
It was from my sweet mentor friend. She sent it without too much thought, I am guessing. A simple greeting...but it spoke volumes of Truth to my earnest heart.
"God loves u..." I have walked with God...really walked with Him for about 16 years now and just recently became very acutely aware that I have no clue how much God loves me. If I did, how much more willingly would I surrender it all to Him and trust Him fully?
"... and knows ur heart." A scary thing. Yes, my heart longs for Him like no other. It cries out, "Earth has nothing I desire but You." But my actions...ouch. They don't always portray that. Which in turn, reflects the state of my heart, doesn't it?
It wasn't where I was looking, but God did indeed speak. The message He sent me today wasn't the one I was looking for. It wasn't a billboard telling me to go to Africa or a phone call from Heaven saying I needed to stay home. I didn't get any solid directions...other than to the DMV.
But I did find peace. Not because my questions were answered. But peace in the midst of all the uncertainty. I still don't know what God wants me to do. But I do know He loves me. He knows my heart and maybe He is pleased...or maybe He just loves me anyway.
For now, I rest in that.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
Glory
I sit here in tears. My niece shared her heart and a beautiful song in this post as she waits on the birth of her fourth baby. (Yes, I am not only an aunt, but a GREAT aunt...14 - almost 16 times! I can't believe I left that out of my 100 things!)
Oh, how this world hurts. Her heavy heart reflects my own. I have hugged my children tighter this week - thankful for the moments I have them to hold - and yet cry and pray for the hurting...and long so desperately for the return of my Lord.
This was the first time I heard the song she shared - "Glory" by Selah. I have played it many times since...and added it to my list of favorites. I found a video so I could share it with you.
"...Stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near." Luke 21:28
"He who testifies about these things says, 'Yes, I am coming quickly.' Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!" Revelation 22:20
Oh, how this world hurts. Her heavy heart reflects my own. I have hugged my children tighter this week - thankful for the moments I have them to hold - and yet cry and pray for the hurting...and long so desperately for the return of my Lord.
This was the first time I heard the song she shared - "Glory" by Selah. I have played it many times since...and added it to my list of favorites. I found a video so I could share it with you.
"...Stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near." Luke 21:28
"He who testifies about these things says, 'Yes, I am coming quickly.' Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!" Revelation 22:20
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Knowing God's Will
It's not a mystery, it's not revealed in only circumstances and it isn't to be feared. I love how Randy Alcorn put this...it is so simple, straightforward and most importantly so true. Worth the read...really!
I love this promise...
"Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without criticizing, and it will be given to him." James 1:5
Praise You, Lord! I can be smarter than I am... :)
I love this promise...
"Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without criticizing, and it will be given to him." James 1:5
Praise You, Lord! I can be smarter than I am... :)
Friday, March 21, 2008
Happy Easter!
Yesterday was the first day of spring. It was also the beginning of my favorite weekend...sweet, blessed Easter. How sad a year would be without this precious time.
We celebrated the Lord’s Supper at church last night. We remembered His body broken…His blood poured for us. I love these services. The quiet, dark sanctuary filled with song, filled with tears. “Jesus paid it all…all to Him I owe.” “Oh, the wonderful cross…” I sat with friends…the body of Christ; we came to the Lord’s Table together. All at once my heart broke for the pain my Savior endured for me, it rejoiced that He did and it longed, longed for Him to share – physically share – in this with me.
My servant King, my humble Master, stooped to the lowest of the low – crucified with criminals to rescue me. Oh, how I love Him. I love Him even more because the story doesn’t end there. Come Sunday morning and the dark, bruised Friday sky is replaced with a fresh, brilliant new light. Light like the world has never seen.
He died to make ALL things new. Isn’t it just so timely that spring comes and then we celebrate the resurrection? Grass grows where snow once lay. Empty trees fill up with leaves once again. Flowers bloom, babies are born, the whole world bubbles with life. Winter is gone and spring is here! Death has been conquered and our Savior lives!
The seasons are such a beautifully accurate description of what God can do. They are the salvation message embedded in nature. Every year the story is told. What was dead is now alive. The mighty Creator of the seasons can make -will make - the whole earth new. Resurrection, restoration, renew, reborn…all some of God’s favorite things. How He loves to take death and replace it with life!
It is for this we celebrate. For what He has done already and for what He is yet to do. In great anticipation I await the Lord’s coming. I can’t wait to dine with Him at His table. My body longs to wash His nail scarred feet with my tears. My heart can not contain the thought of celebrating with Him that He is alive…the battle won and eternity ours.
I pray the hope that comes with spring brings life – eternal life – to your heart. There is no greater promise than spring is coming! No greater love than what our Lord did on this day.
Happy spring and happy Easter!
"I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me, even if he dies, will live." John 11"25
We celebrated the Lord’s Supper at church last night. We remembered His body broken…His blood poured for us. I love these services. The quiet, dark sanctuary filled with song, filled with tears. “Jesus paid it all…all to Him I owe.” “Oh, the wonderful cross…” I sat with friends…the body of Christ; we came to the Lord’s Table together. All at once my heart broke for the pain my Savior endured for me, it rejoiced that He did and it longed, longed for Him to share – physically share – in this with me.
My servant King, my humble Master, stooped to the lowest of the low – crucified with criminals to rescue me. Oh, how I love Him. I love Him even more because the story doesn’t end there. Come Sunday morning and the dark, bruised Friday sky is replaced with a fresh, brilliant new light. Light like the world has never seen.
He died to make ALL things new. Isn’t it just so timely that spring comes and then we celebrate the resurrection? Grass grows where snow once lay. Empty trees fill up with leaves once again. Flowers bloom, babies are born, the whole world bubbles with life. Winter is gone and spring is here! Death has been conquered and our Savior lives!
The seasons are such a beautifully accurate description of what God can do. They are the salvation message embedded in nature. Every year the story is told. What was dead is now alive. The mighty Creator of the seasons can make -will make - the whole earth new. Resurrection, restoration, renew, reborn…all some of God’s favorite things. How He loves to take death and replace it with life!
It is for this we celebrate. For what He has done already and for what He is yet to do. In great anticipation I await the Lord’s coming. I can’t wait to dine with Him at His table. My body longs to wash His nail scarred feet with my tears. My heart can not contain the thought of celebrating with Him that He is alive…the battle won and eternity ours.
I pray the hope that comes with spring brings life – eternal life – to your heart. There is no greater promise than spring is coming! No greater love than what our Lord did on this day.
Happy spring and happy Easter!
"I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me, even if he dies, will live." John 11"25
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Everything
A dear friend shared this with me and I have to pass it along. It is amazing...real...and just what I needed this week. It makes me love Jesus all the more. I am so thankful He sticks with us...
It's a 5 minute Lifehouse song/skit on You Tube that has been viewed by over 6 million people. A must see!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyheJ480LYA
I am not even going to try to embed it...sorry, you have to follow links at this blog. :)
It's a 5 minute Lifehouse song/skit on You Tube that has been viewed by over 6 million people. A must see!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cyheJ480LYA
I am not even going to try to embed it...sorry, you have to follow links at this blog. :)
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Why Shepherds?
“In the same region, shepherds were staying out in the fields and keeping watch at night over their flock. Then an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Don’t be afraid, for look, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all people: today a Savior, who is Messiah the Lord, was born for you in the city of David. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped snugly in cloth and lying in a feeding trough.’…They hurried off and found both Mary and Joseph, and the baby who was lying in the feeding trough.” (Luke 2:8-12,16)
Why did God choose shepherds? Out of all the people in and around Bethlehem, was there no one more worthy to hear the good news than some simple shepherds?
A little known fact is that Bethlehem shepherds tended to the flocks of sheep that would become temple sacrifices. If these were in fact the shepherds that visited Jesus, then the shepherds were common, but their sheep were not. They were innocent lambs chosen to pay the price for guilty man.
So simple shepherds, yes. Simple lambs, no, not really.
That is the heart of the Christmas story, isn’t it? Simple shepherds, simple surroundings, simple parents, but a Baby that was anything but common. He was born to save the world. He was born to buy back the Earth and all in it…to restore, resurrect, reconcile. It would cost Him His life, but He came here anyway. He entered our world through the womb of a teenage girl and she laid Him in a manger. For the night all was well. He was here with us.
Can you picture the scene with me? It was so…so very…ordinary. The stable probably smelled. The animals were probably restless. There is Mary…exhausted from the donkey ride, yet in pain from birthing a Son. Her eyes are heavy…she will be sleeping along with her Baby very soon. And then there is Joseph. His eyes are also begging to close. The stress of the past day was riveting, maneuvering a laboring Mary thought a crowded street on a donkey, finding a place to stay, delivering the Baby… now in the calm of the night, sleep beckons him. But he dare not take his eyes off the Child. He must protect his King.
So, why did God send shepherds? Remember they were not just any shepherds. These were shepherds who tended the lambs that would be brought before the Lord in the temple. Of all shepherds these were the most respected. They were strong, godly men with gentle, humble hearts. They walk in, look around the ordinary scene. As strange as it was, there was no mistaking what the angels had said. “A Baby wrapped snugly in cloth and lying in a feeding trough.” They fall to their knees, tears streaming down wrinkled, weathered faces. They have found their Savior and their Lord.
And so Joseph gazes once more at sleeping Mary, and the stirring Baby and then closes his eyes. He has traveled a long journey, and has an even longer one ahead of him. For now, he must rest. God has sent the shepherds, to watch over the little, innocent Lamb.
Could they have known that this Lamb too would be sacrificed for a guilty people? Only this time, He would choose to get on the altar. He would choose to become the sacrifice. And this time and only through this Lamb it would be once and for all.
Why did God choose shepherds? Out of all the people in and around Bethlehem, was there no one more worthy to hear the good news than some simple shepherds?
A little known fact is that Bethlehem shepherds tended to the flocks of sheep that would become temple sacrifices. If these were in fact the shepherds that visited Jesus, then the shepherds were common, but their sheep were not. They were innocent lambs chosen to pay the price for guilty man.
So simple shepherds, yes. Simple lambs, no, not really.
That is the heart of the Christmas story, isn’t it? Simple shepherds, simple surroundings, simple parents, but a Baby that was anything but common. He was born to save the world. He was born to buy back the Earth and all in it…to restore, resurrect, reconcile. It would cost Him His life, but He came here anyway. He entered our world through the womb of a teenage girl and she laid Him in a manger. For the night all was well. He was here with us.
Can you picture the scene with me? It was so…so very…ordinary. The stable probably smelled. The animals were probably restless. There is Mary…exhausted from the donkey ride, yet in pain from birthing a Son. Her eyes are heavy…she will be sleeping along with her Baby very soon. And then there is Joseph. His eyes are also begging to close. The stress of the past day was riveting, maneuvering a laboring Mary thought a crowded street on a donkey, finding a place to stay, delivering the Baby… now in the calm of the night, sleep beckons him. But he dare not take his eyes off the Child. He must protect his King.
So, why did God send shepherds? Remember they were not just any shepherds. These were shepherds who tended the lambs that would be brought before the Lord in the temple. Of all shepherds these were the most respected. They were strong, godly men with gentle, humble hearts. They walk in, look around the ordinary scene. As strange as it was, there was no mistaking what the angels had said. “A Baby wrapped snugly in cloth and lying in a feeding trough.” They fall to their knees, tears streaming down wrinkled, weathered faces. They have found their Savior and their Lord.
And so Joseph gazes once more at sleeping Mary, and the stirring Baby and then closes his eyes. He has traveled a long journey, and has an even longer one ahead of him. For now, he must rest. God has sent the shepherds, to watch over the little, innocent Lamb.
Could they have known that this Lamb too would be sacrificed for a guilty people? Only this time, He would choose to get on the altar. He would choose to become the sacrifice. And this time and only through this Lamb it would be once and for all.
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Missing Home
“Whom have I in Heaven but You? And earth has nothing I desire besides You.” Psalm 73:25
This week has been a bit of sad one. I have seen my parents mourning the death of their dog. Just a dog, I know…but after 15 years with her, their home just isn’t the same yet without her.
One of my dearest friends lost her grandfather this week. He is home with Jesus, but she is here and her heart hurts.
We were close to witnessing a fatal accident Wednesday night. We passed the scene shortly after it happened on the way to a Christmas party… a body of a 17 year old girl, hit by two cars, lying in the road.
It was all more than enough to make me hit my knees later that night. I am so ready to go home. None of this affected me directly, but I see the affects it has on others. I know I can’t live in this world a lifetime without death’s pain stabbing my own heart. Living here just plain hurts.
It’s not the way things were suppose to be, you know? We were created to live forever. We were made for eternity. And now more than ever before, but probably not more than I ever will, my spirit groans within me…I miss my home…the One I was created for.
Jesus, I want to be where You are. May Your Kindgom come…now please?! I am ready for no more tears, no more death, no more crying, no more pain. Oh, Lord, I am ready!
Are you?
“The Lord does not delay His promise, as some understand delay, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance.”
2 Peter 3:9
This week has been a bit of sad one. I have seen my parents mourning the death of their dog. Just a dog, I know…but after 15 years with her, their home just isn’t the same yet without her.
One of my dearest friends lost her grandfather this week. He is home with Jesus, but she is here and her heart hurts.
We were close to witnessing a fatal accident Wednesday night. We passed the scene shortly after it happened on the way to a Christmas party… a body of a 17 year old girl, hit by two cars, lying in the road.
It was all more than enough to make me hit my knees later that night. I am so ready to go home. None of this affected me directly, but I see the affects it has on others. I know I can’t live in this world a lifetime without death’s pain stabbing my own heart. Living here just plain hurts.
It’s not the way things were suppose to be, you know? We were created to live forever. We were made for eternity. And now more than ever before, but probably not more than I ever will, my spirit groans within me…I miss my home…the One I was created for.
Jesus, I want to be where You are. May Your Kindgom come…now please?! I am ready for no more tears, no more death, no more crying, no more pain. Oh, Lord, I am ready!
Are you?
“The Lord does not delay His promise, as some understand delay, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance.”
2 Peter 3:9
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Facedown
Face Down
by Matt Redman
Welcomed in to the courts of the King
I've been ushered in to Your presence
Lord, I stand on Your merciful ground
Yet with every step tread with reverence
And I'll fall facedown
As Your glory shines around
Yes, I'll fall facedown
As Your glory shines around
Who is there in the heavens like You?
And upon the earth, who's Your equal?
You are far above, You're the highest of heights
We are bowing down to exalt You
So let Your glory shine around
Let Your glory shine around
King of glory, here be found
King of glory
In my study of the Tabernacle, I have been left facedown like never before. I am completely blown away by His greatness…His consistency…His persistence. That He would welcome one such as me into His Presence leaves me with no words…only tears. Even now they stream down my face as I try to put some sort of description to what my heart feels. This may ring meaningless to anyone except me, but I have to write…I have to write something.
There is nothing, absolutely nothing like the Presence of God. It is so available, so attainable…and yet I struggle to find the time to just sit…sit in Him. I long for the day when my flesh will be gone and I can know nothing except Him.
Exodus 33 echoes my heart cry. It begins with God telling Moses that the Israelites will be going to the Promised Land, a land flowing with milk and honey, but God will not be accompanying them. The people mourned and Moses interceded. He begged of God, “If your presence does not go…don’t make us go up from here.” (Exodus 33:15)
It wasn’t enough to be given God’s gifts or receive His promises. Victory over enemies, food from Heaven, led by an angel of God yet Moses needed more. He would not be satisfied with anything less than God Himself. If God was missing, the Promised Land meant nothing. It wasn’t worth another step if God wasn’t going with them. So Moses humbled Himself and pleaded…begged even.
And God agrees to go with the Israelites. But still, amazingly enough, Moses was not satisfied. I can almost hear his desperation, “Please, let me see Your glory.” (Exodus 33:18) And God complied, “I will cause all My goodness to pass in front of you.” (Exodus 33:19) Can you imagine?
Can you imagine experiencing God’s glory, experiencing what makes Him God alone? I imagine His glory is found in His Presence and so in His Presence I seek to be.
Oh, Lord, do you hear my own beggar’s heart pleading? I don’t want to go another moment without your Presence. I won’t take another step without You meeting me here. I need You, Lord, more than I need Your blessings!
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness because they will be filled.” (Matthew 5:6)
“Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with boldness…” (Hebrews 4:14).
Let us not forget for a moment that it is because of Jesus. It is through Him, represented in the Tabernacle, that God dwelt with the Israelites and it is through Him on the cross that we can dwell with God forever. It is only because of Him that we are welcomed into God’s courts, welcomed further into the Holy Place. He ripped through the veil so that we could know the Holy of Holies. We can see God’s glory, experience His Presence…and fall facedown.
by Matt Redman
Welcomed in to the courts of the King
I've been ushered in to Your presence
Lord, I stand on Your merciful ground
Yet with every step tread with reverence
And I'll fall facedown
As Your glory shines around
Yes, I'll fall facedown
As Your glory shines around
Who is there in the heavens like You?
And upon the earth, who's Your equal?
You are far above, You're the highest of heights
We are bowing down to exalt You
So let Your glory shine around
Let Your glory shine around
King of glory, here be found
King of glory
In my study of the Tabernacle, I have been left facedown like never before. I am completely blown away by His greatness…His consistency…His persistence. That He would welcome one such as me into His Presence leaves me with no words…only tears. Even now they stream down my face as I try to put some sort of description to what my heart feels. This may ring meaningless to anyone except me, but I have to write…I have to write something.
There is nothing, absolutely nothing like the Presence of God. It is so available, so attainable…and yet I struggle to find the time to just sit…sit in Him. I long for the day when my flesh will be gone and I can know nothing except Him.
Exodus 33 echoes my heart cry. It begins with God telling Moses that the Israelites will be going to the Promised Land, a land flowing with milk and honey, but God will not be accompanying them. The people mourned and Moses interceded. He begged of God, “If your presence does not go…don’t make us go up from here.” (Exodus 33:15)
It wasn’t enough to be given God’s gifts or receive His promises. Victory over enemies, food from Heaven, led by an angel of God yet Moses needed more. He would not be satisfied with anything less than God Himself. If God was missing, the Promised Land meant nothing. It wasn’t worth another step if God wasn’t going with them. So Moses humbled Himself and pleaded…begged even.
And God agrees to go with the Israelites. But still, amazingly enough, Moses was not satisfied. I can almost hear his desperation, “Please, let me see Your glory.” (Exodus 33:18) And God complied, “I will cause all My goodness to pass in front of you.” (Exodus 33:19) Can you imagine?
Can you imagine experiencing God’s glory, experiencing what makes Him God alone? I imagine His glory is found in His Presence and so in His Presence I seek to be.
Oh, Lord, do you hear my own beggar’s heart pleading? I don’t want to go another moment without your Presence. I won’t take another step without You meeting me here. I need You, Lord, more than I need Your blessings!
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness because they will be filled.” (Matthew 5:6)
“Therefore let us approach the throne of grace with boldness…” (Hebrews 4:14).
Let us not forget for a moment that it is because of Jesus. It is through Him, represented in the Tabernacle, that God dwelt with the Israelites and it is through Him on the cross that we can dwell with God forever. It is only because of Him that we are welcomed into God’s courts, welcomed further into the Holy Place. He ripped through the veil so that we could know the Holy of Holies. We can see God’s glory, experience His Presence…and fall facedown.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Worship
My friend Tara posted this on her blog and I found it amazing! I just had to share it. Unfortunately, it got the best of me when I was trying to embed the video on here, so I will just have to share the link.
I have so much more to say about this! Ahhh...if only I had the time to write now. I have so many thoughts on worship swirling around in my head! Expect to hear more about this soon! :) Until then I will leave you with this...
(I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. It is only about 3 minutes long.)
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Food Poisoning and Mercy
I began my day today as I ended my last...in the bathroom. Sorry if that is TMI, but our after-church lunch has left me two days of...unpleasantness, to spare you the details. One time when Shawn called to check on me yesterday he had these encouraging words for me, "You sound like you are going to die." I replied, "I feel like I am too." Of course, I was being dramatic, a trait I have learned from my 5 year-old (or is it the other way around?). But nevertheless, it is a day I would prefer to not ever relive.
So...as my day started out once again in the bathroom, all my hopes of being better today went down the toilet (pun intended). I cried as Shawn left for the day. I know he felt horrible leaving me but today of all days he HAD to be at work...and probably wouldn't be home until the kids were bed. How was I going to make it? I prayed for help - literal help. I prayed not for strength to make it through the day but someone to come help me...I needed physical help. Even if I could stop throwing up, I was so weak and my stomach felt as though it had been used as a punching bag.
So what in the world does all this have to do with mercy?
The phone rang...it was my Mom. I had already talked to her once this morning...or grunted at her anyway. Enough to convey I was sick again, but she was unable to help because they had a doctor appointment today. But her words this time brought a flood of relief. She had canceled the doctor appointment and my sweet Daddy was coming to get Connor for the day. It was nearly time for Chloe's nap and that meant I could go back to bed for a couple of hours. "Oh, thank you, Jesus!"
His mercy is new every morning. He gave me what I needed to get through yesterday on my own and He gave me who I needed to get through today. I am so grateful! And happy to report feeling much better.
I am very aware how minor the "manna" or the mercy I received today compares to the mercy so many need to get through their days. A husband who isn't coming home tonight, a daughter who might not live to see tomorrow... Trials my heart can not fathom facing. Trials I am afraid my heart couldn't bear. Trials that just plain scare me.
But beyond my understanding lies a Truth my heart clings to more than to life...His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:19-24). Just as He was faithful to give manna to the Israelites every morning they were in the wilderness, He is faithful to give me (and all who will gather it) His mercy a new. And just as the manna was measured and given according to need - never a surplus and never a shortage (Exodus 16:18) so is His mercy.
Dear God, I pray for those hurting...the ones I am aware of and the ones I am not. I am far from understanding or being able to make sense of any of the pain. Because it just doesn't make sense! I have questions. I just don't understand. But I know You are good. All that I don't know I lay aside and cling to what I do. Help me trust in Your faithfulness, trust that You will come through. Help me surrender to Your will...whatever that may be. Take away my fear and give me faith. Faith that just as You give Your mercy new every morning, You also give the strength to gather it. Thank you for the stories of those that have been there. For their testimony that amid all the pain, You are hope.
So...as my day started out once again in the bathroom, all my hopes of being better today went down the toilet (pun intended). I cried as Shawn left for the day. I know he felt horrible leaving me but today of all days he HAD to be at work...and probably wouldn't be home until the kids were bed. How was I going to make it? I prayed for help - literal help. I prayed not for strength to make it through the day but someone to come help me...I needed physical help. Even if I could stop throwing up, I was so weak and my stomach felt as though it had been used as a punching bag.
So what in the world does all this have to do with mercy?
The phone rang...it was my Mom. I had already talked to her once this morning...or grunted at her anyway. Enough to convey I was sick again, but she was unable to help because they had a doctor appointment today. But her words this time brought a flood of relief. She had canceled the doctor appointment and my sweet Daddy was coming to get Connor for the day. It was nearly time for Chloe's nap and that meant I could go back to bed for a couple of hours. "Oh, thank you, Jesus!"
His mercy is new every morning. He gave me what I needed to get through yesterday on my own and He gave me who I needed to get through today. I am so grateful! And happy to report feeling much better.
I am very aware how minor the "manna" or the mercy I received today compares to the mercy so many need to get through their days. A husband who isn't coming home tonight, a daughter who might not live to see tomorrow... Trials my heart can not fathom facing. Trials I am afraid my heart couldn't bear. Trials that just plain scare me.
But beyond my understanding lies a Truth my heart clings to more than to life...His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:19-24). Just as He was faithful to give manna to the Israelites every morning they were in the wilderness, He is faithful to give me (and all who will gather it) His mercy a new. And just as the manna was measured and given according to need - never a surplus and never a shortage (Exodus 16:18) so is His mercy.
Dear God, I pray for those hurting...the ones I am aware of and the ones I am not. I am far from understanding or being able to make sense of any of the pain. Because it just doesn't make sense! I have questions. I just don't understand. But I know You are good. All that I don't know I lay aside and cling to what I do. Help me trust in Your faithfulness, trust that You will come through. Help me surrender to Your will...whatever that may be. Take away my fear and give me faith. Faith that just as You give Your mercy new every morning, You also give the strength to gather it. Thank you for the stories of those that have been there. For their testimony that amid all the pain, You are hope.
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Our Daily Bread
“He humbled you by letting you go hungry; then He gave you manna to eat, which you and your fathers had not known, so that you might learn that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD.” Deuteronomy 8:3
Still sleepy, she stretches and yawns slowly rising. The cool morning air immediately fills her nostrils as she rises from her bed on the ground. She quickly grabs a basket as she pulls back the door of her tent to begin her most important task for the day. She stops short upon seeing the white covered ground and stands there in wonder. She first awoke to this site over 4,000 days ago yet the thrill of God’s daily provision never ceases to amaze her. She bends down and begins to gather enough manna to feed her and her family. As she holds the food of the angels in her palm she contemplates this “what” as they call it, this “manna.” Nothing special about these white flakes, nothing in its appearance to make it desirable, yet it nourishes...it saves. It provides all that is needed to sustain for that day…yet, so much more. As she continues to collect the manna she quiets her soul and listens. She knows they laugh at her for her reverence in this duty that has become mundane for many. But if she really listens with her heart she hears more than the gossip and chattering around her. It is as though each morning through this mysterious bread, God speaks.
“What” is it saying?
Deuteronomy 32:2 says, “Let my teaching fall like rain and my words settle like dew.” Every morning the manna spoke volumes of God’s faithfulness. His promises were declared gloriously every morning. He would provide...He would provide…He would provide…And not only bread to meet our physical needs but a Savior to meet our spiritual needs. The manna not only told of the “what” it told of the “Who”. Its physical state foretold of the Messiah…the bread of Life. The white manna fell from Heaven. Jesus, pure and spotless descended to earth.
They ate manna in the wilderness yet died, but those that eat of the true bread from Heaven will never die (John 6:32-35). Just as God provided the manna for the Israelites to eat, He gave His only Son as living bread. “And He [Jesus] took bread, gave thanks, broke it, gave it to them, and said, ‘This is My body, which is given for you.’”(Luke 22:19). God provided manna, they gathered it. God provides His Son, we accept Him. The rest is blessed grace!
In the quiet of the morning the faithfulness of the manna falling proclaimed loudly the faithfulness of God to give us what we need to live today…and to give us what we need to live eternally. Only Jesus, The Word made flesh, can satisfy our hungry souls.
Sleepily she awoke and walked to the kitchen window and opened the blinds. As the sun was rising and dew shining, she opened her Bible. As she did each morning, she prayed, “Lord, speak…” She knew this was the most important part of her day. She needed to hear from Him before she could accomplish all she needed to do for her family. And just as every other morning, God was faithful. He gave her words to nourish her soul. He gave her what she needed for that day…and so much more. She stood and gazed down at the words He had provided…nothing so grand that she heard angels sing as she read them, yet she stood in wonder. The thrill of God’s Word never ceased to amaze her. No matter how often you eat of it, you never reach the bottom. His provision is perfect every day and continues for eternity. “Your words were found, and I ate them.” (Jeremiah 15:16).
Next door, a neighbor she barely knows kneels in her bedroom watching the same sun rise. “Oh, if only today would be different.” She hasn’t been asleep yet…what a night. She thought she was over it…over him, but than again he calls and then again she stumbles. She feels the shame over her more intensely than the clothes she is wearing. Through blurred vision she spots a Bible on her nightstand she hasn't opened in years. Someone calls to her from within it but she is afraid…afraid of what He will say. Desperate for change she grabs it anyway…and the manna falls…and His mercy is new…
Here I sit, my Bible open and my soul yearning. “I am so hungry, Lord!” And He speaks, “I am Yahweh your God, who brought you up from the land of Egypt. Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it.” (Psalm 81:10). On my knees, head tilted up and mouth wide open, I wait…I wait for the Word of God to fall like rain. I know it will come because He is faithful.
“The grass withers, the flowers fade, but the word of our God remains forever.” Isaiah 40:8
Still sleepy, she stretches and yawns slowly rising. The cool morning air immediately fills her nostrils as she rises from her bed on the ground. She quickly grabs a basket as she pulls back the door of her tent to begin her most important task for the day. She stops short upon seeing the white covered ground and stands there in wonder. She first awoke to this site over 4,000 days ago yet the thrill of God’s daily provision never ceases to amaze her. She bends down and begins to gather enough manna to feed her and her family. As she holds the food of the angels in her palm she contemplates this “what” as they call it, this “manna.” Nothing special about these white flakes, nothing in its appearance to make it desirable, yet it nourishes...it saves. It provides all that is needed to sustain for that day…yet, so much more. As she continues to collect the manna she quiets her soul and listens. She knows they laugh at her for her reverence in this duty that has become mundane for many. But if she really listens with her heart she hears more than the gossip and chattering around her. It is as though each morning through this mysterious bread, God speaks.
“What” is it saying?
Deuteronomy 32:2 says, “Let my teaching fall like rain and my words settle like dew.” Every morning the manna spoke volumes of God’s faithfulness. His promises were declared gloriously every morning. He would provide...He would provide…He would provide…And not only bread to meet our physical needs but a Savior to meet our spiritual needs. The manna not only told of the “what” it told of the “Who”. Its physical state foretold of the Messiah…the bread of Life. The white manna fell from Heaven. Jesus, pure and spotless descended to earth.
They ate manna in the wilderness yet died, but those that eat of the true bread from Heaven will never die (John 6:32-35). Just as God provided the manna for the Israelites to eat, He gave His only Son as living bread. “And He [Jesus] took bread, gave thanks, broke it, gave it to them, and said, ‘This is My body, which is given for you.’”(Luke 22:19). God provided manna, they gathered it. God provides His Son, we accept Him. The rest is blessed grace!
In the quiet of the morning the faithfulness of the manna falling proclaimed loudly the faithfulness of God to give us what we need to live today…and to give us what we need to live eternally. Only Jesus, The Word made flesh, can satisfy our hungry souls.
Sleepily she awoke and walked to the kitchen window and opened the blinds. As the sun was rising and dew shining, she opened her Bible. As she did each morning, she prayed, “Lord, speak…” She knew this was the most important part of her day. She needed to hear from Him before she could accomplish all she needed to do for her family. And just as every other morning, God was faithful. He gave her words to nourish her soul. He gave her what she needed for that day…and so much more. She stood and gazed down at the words He had provided…nothing so grand that she heard angels sing as she read them, yet she stood in wonder. The thrill of God’s Word never ceased to amaze her. No matter how often you eat of it, you never reach the bottom. His provision is perfect every day and continues for eternity. “Your words were found, and I ate them.” (Jeremiah 15:16).
Next door, a neighbor she barely knows kneels in her bedroom watching the same sun rise. “Oh, if only today would be different.” She hasn’t been asleep yet…what a night. She thought she was over it…over him, but than again he calls and then again she stumbles. She feels the shame over her more intensely than the clothes she is wearing. Through blurred vision she spots a Bible on her nightstand she hasn't opened in years. Someone calls to her from within it but she is afraid…afraid of what He will say. Desperate for change she grabs it anyway…and the manna falls…and His mercy is new…
Here I sit, my Bible open and my soul yearning. “I am so hungry, Lord!” And He speaks, “I am Yahweh your God, who brought you up from the land of Egypt. Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it.” (Psalm 81:10). On my knees, head tilted up and mouth wide open, I wait…I wait for the Word of God to fall like rain. I know it will come because He is faithful.
“The grass withers, the flowers fade, but the word of our God remains forever.” Isaiah 40:8
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