On Good Friday we contemplate Jesus' suffering. His dying for us. The brutal beatings he endured, and the insults and disrespect he gracefully accepted break our hearts as we see that he did this for us.
For you. For me. And it makes me wonder, how can I best honor Jesus today? How do I respond to God's plan of redemption when it is so hard for me to understand? I would never have created a plan of salvation like this.
But after reading some devotionals and studying the scriptures, I found my offering. We are to become more Christlike as we mature in our relationship with the Lord, and Jesus models this for us on the cross.
My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? - Matthew 27:46
Jesus cries out to God from the cross, feeling the weight of the world's sin. But it's not just a cry. It's from Psalm 22:1. Jesus quotes scripture in his time of trial. He is crying out as a man who has had God's countenance temporarily removed as he pays the price for mankind.
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit - Luke 23:46
After being beaten and hanging on a cross for hours, Jesus finds the strength to loudly voice his last words. Jesus quotes Psalm 31:5 - I commit my spirit; deliver me, LORD, my faithful God. Jesus words are slightly different, but we see the same relationship with the Father and a trust as he gives his eternal life to God.
On this Good Friday, these words of Jesus echo through the thin pages of the Bible. Jesus quoted scripture when the devil tried to tempt him. Throughout his ministry he referred to the Bible. So why should we be surprised that his final words are those from the inspired word of God? After all, Jesus is the word.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:1
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14
Studying and memorizing scripture is studying and taking in my Lord. When we pray scripture in good times and in hard times, we are in the Lord as our center. May this offering of time and effort bring him all glory and honor.
Friday, March 25, 2016
Thursday, February 25, 2016
Trail blazer needed
Something's got to change. God has been working on my
heart, and I am overwhelmed. Pure and simple. Overwhelmed.
Because the path I'm looking at it lonely and rocky. See, it hasn't been
forged and I'm struggling with if God is calling me to be a trailblazer in the
church or if he wanting me to create a new path in my heart.
Quite the conundrum, isn't it? This means I need to spend
more time in quiet prayer so I can hear God. I need to look at
opportunities through this lens. But my soul is restless and tired at the same
time. I'm being sparked to go hard, yet at the same time to be.
The American church isn't cutting it for me. I need more. My soul needs more than Sunday morning busyness and committee meetings during the week. I want a church that prays real, heartfelt prayers that we share in together in love. I want a church family that eats and plays together. I need a church that longs to hear the word of the Lord and take it out to our neighbors here and yonder because it is the truth that changes lives.
Can you hear my desperation? I don't want to show up one more Sunday morning and sing a song, shake hands, listen to announcements, find the point of a sermon and then leave. No. I just don't want to do it any more. No more up/down/up/down for an hour with my back to my family. No more formality. Just genuine words. Passion. Excitement. Fear. Awe. Overwhelmed. I love my church family. I just think we are missing the boat. We are to take the message out to people. We aren't to welcome Christ into our lives, making room for him in our schedules. We are to become his and let him take over our lives.
Think about it. What does the Bible say about gathering? What are God's plans for worship? Read. Study. Pray. Maybe you'll be invited to be a trailblazer, too.
Thessalonians 5:16 - 18 Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Saturday, March 29, 2014
I am an awesome wife
I just wanted to tell you what an awesome wife I am. It's not often I can brag about this, but today is confirmation that I am super thoughtful.
I was folding laundry, and I saw that one of my husband's sweaters looked a little small. But I got to tell him that I KNOW it wasn't a wool sweater. That I was so on his clothing that I didn't wash something I shouldn't.
You know how I know that? Because all the wool sweaters he had have already been ruined! I don't ever buy wool because I'm super allergic to it, and he rarely buys it, and I have forgotten to read the labels before. He begrudgingly forgave me for creating baby clothes out of his favorites.
But now, you see, I didn't ruin any of his current sweaters. Take that, dear husband. No wool. No worries!
(This was an old post I forgot to publish. Want to be friends?!)
I was folding laundry, and I saw that one of my husband's sweaters looked a little small. But I got to tell him that I KNOW it wasn't a wool sweater. That I was so on his clothing that I didn't wash something I shouldn't.
You know how I know that? Because all the wool sweaters he had have already been ruined! I don't ever buy wool because I'm super allergic to it, and he rarely buys it, and I have forgotten to read the labels before. He begrudgingly forgave me for creating baby clothes out of his favorites.
But now, you see, I didn't ruin any of his current sweaters. Take that, dear husband. No wool. No worries!
(This was an old post I forgot to publish. Want to be friends?!)
Swing, batter batter. Swing.
I came home from the ball game and grabbed a fuzzy blanket
as I plopped on the couch. It was one of
those games that fans wore winter coats, and clapping was muzzled by gloves and
hot drinks in our hands!
But the tears came flooding after I had thawed out. My son
hadn’t had a great day at the plate. The
pitcher was great, and my son was eager to hit.
Coach had said some things that weren’t what I consider to be
productive, so my kid was feeling the pressure to perform. He had been hitting well, but it wasn’t
enough for the coach.
So why did I care so much?
My boy has chronic migraine. He
lives every day with incredible pain, and he perseveres. I was overwhelmed with just wanting him to
have something feel good. Something that
would remove the focus from his brokenness and make him feel whole for a
bit. I was just sad for him.
The tears were quickly wiped away as I heard the door
open. I knew better than to talk about
the game, so I asked about his Jimmy John’s sandwich. “Yeah, it was fine. Please stay out of your room for a while.” He
wanted to soak in a hot bath. Alone. Like the mom of three teens doesn’t get that!
When he was nice and pink, he came out to chat. He told us how he stayed after the game to
hit in the cages. He wanted to practice.
He wasn’t satisfied with the day, even though it was cold. Coach went over to him in the cages and
stayed with him. He didn’t have to;
after all, his son was having a birthday party right then after the game, and it was cold! But he stayed with my boy and worked beside
him. His swing had been fine, he just needed to relax at the plate. But he
still worked and worked, drilling the mechanics of being a hitter.
Two nights earlier we had been at church. This was right after coach had harsh words
that weren’t appropriate. My son entered
the sanctuary and opened the Bible, looking for what he needed. James 1:4. “Let perseverance finish its work so that you
may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” Tonight he went to the cages
and practiced. Why do you need to hear
this?
You need to hear this because I need to hear this. God uses everything for his glory. He doesn’t let anything enter our lives that
he can’t use to shape us into the person he wants us to be. He drives us to him
and his word. He nudges us to practice our spiritual swing because we don’t
what pitch is coming. He never leaves
us, like coach stayed with my boy. We
don’t need to get our heads down. We
keep our heads up, relying on our true source of strength and get back up to
the plate. Again and again. Then we go
back to the word and practice.
I am so proud of my son. I see character and strength, maturity in tough situations that can only be from the Lord. My eyes leak again, but not because I want something good for my boy, but because he already has it.
Amen.
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Spoonful of sugar
It's Saturday! It's a different day every week - sometimes busy, sometimes slower. Today the boys are at a bowling tournament, and my daughter and I will be heading to a huge craft show. Love to support the high school band and see all the pretties!
But while my daughter gets her beauty sleep, I have to get a few things done. The "to do" list that really is a list of the signs of life. Dirty socks on the floor that need to get into the laundry room. Clean clothes to be folded and put away. How about the bathrooms and dirty dishes?
All signs that five people live here. And because we live here, there's a pot in the sink that had some burned nastiness on the bottom. It just didn't want to come off! I soaked it and scrubbed. Still not good. I remembered a handy tip from Facebook that showed all the uses of a dryer sheet, and one of those was getting the ick off dishes. So I put it in the pot and let it sit for days with no luck. Yes, I said days. All the other dishes were clean and put away several times over. The pot remained.
It was a Saturday morning project. Out came the steel scrubby. Big cleaning gun, ya know? Guess what - in seconds it was clean! Another lesson in my signs of life morning. Anything worth doing well takes work. It took the right tool and elbow grease to clean the pot. The easy shortcuts of soaking and dryer sheet immersing didn't cut it. I had to find the scrubby and use it. Just like life, we need to apply ourselves to get the most from it.
That beautiful Thanksgiving dinner won't get done if I wait until the last minute to plan, shop and prepare. My kids won't achieve their dreams if they passively wait for the dreams to text them. My relationship with Jesus won't grow if I don't spend time with him. The path of least resistance isn't the path to most fulfillment. Not to say working smart is better than working hard, but it is work that gets us there! And when I focus the blessings involved with my work, it sure is much more enjoyable.
I'd like to change the lyrics to one of my favorite show tunes. Now sing along with me - Just a spoonful of gratitude helps the work all get done, the work all get done, the work all get done. Just a spoonful of gratitude helps the work all get done, in a most delightful way.
There. Happy Saturday!
But while my daughter gets her beauty sleep, I have to get a few things done. The "to do" list that really is a list of the signs of life. Dirty socks on the floor that need to get into the laundry room. Clean clothes to be folded and put away. How about the bathrooms and dirty dishes?
All signs that five people live here. And because we live here, there's a pot in the sink that had some burned nastiness on the bottom. It just didn't want to come off! I soaked it and scrubbed. Still not good. I remembered a handy tip from Facebook that showed all the uses of a dryer sheet, and one of those was getting the ick off dishes. So I put it in the pot and let it sit for days with no luck. Yes, I said days. All the other dishes were clean and put away several times over. The pot remained.
It was a Saturday morning project. Out came the steel scrubby. Big cleaning gun, ya know? Guess what - in seconds it was clean! Another lesson in my signs of life morning. Anything worth doing well takes work. It took the right tool and elbow grease to clean the pot. The easy shortcuts of soaking and dryer sheet immersing didn't cut it. I had to find the scrubby and use it. Just like life, we need to apply ourselves to get the most from it.
That beautiful Thanksgiving dinner won't get done if I wait until the last minute to plan, shop and prepare. My kids won't achieve their dreams if they passively wait for the dreams to text them. My relationship with Jesus won't grow if I don't spend time with him. The path of least resistance isn't the path to most fulfillment. Not to say working smart is better than working hard, but it is work that gets us there! And when I focus the blessings involved with my work, it sure is much more enjoyable.
I'd like to change the lyrics to one of my favorite show tunes. Now sing along with me - Just a spoonful of gratitude helps the work all get done, the work all get done, the work all get done. Just a spoonful of gratitude helps the work all get done, in a most delightful way.
There. Happy Saturday!
Thursday, October 4, 2012
How do I really thank God?
It has been a rambling thought... How do I thank God?
I mean there are times when my heart just overflows with gratitude and I look around for amazing ways to show him how thankful I am. Ever feel that way? The sweet baby? A miraculous healing? An answered prayer? Maybe it's a sunset that blows your mind - and all you want to do is thank him.
I've not come up with the answer to my question. Nothing seems adequate.
In today's Bible time, I read Psalm 116, and David asks this same question. What shall I return to the Lord for all his goodness to me?, David ponders in verse 12. Indeed, what shall I return, for I have nothing. Everything in my life is God's. He allows me to love my children and husband, but they are his. He allows me to use his money, but it's his. He graciously lets me see a peek of the splendor he created in the heavens, but it's not mine. Humbling, isn't it? Homelesss, penniless, yet proud. Not words I would choose if you asked me to describe myself.
I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people. In verses 13 and 14 David raises his cup in acknowledgment and thanksgiving, and he continues to call on the Lord. He doesn't stop asking God for blessings - he wants all that God has in store for him. He then states that he will obey God and continue to serve him. I'm in awe by this point because I finally have an answer!
It's so simple, isn't it? It all goes back to God. I've once again tried to make it about me, but it's about God. All he wants is for me to thank him, to obey him and to rely on him as my constant provider. He is the giver of all good things and , I mean nothing, I do or say can even come close to being enough. In his grace, he just asks for a humble whisper from the depths of my soul. "'Thank you, my Lord."
I mean there are times when my heart just overflows with gratitude and I look around for amazing ways to show him how thankful I am. Ever feel that way? The sweet baby? A miraculous healing? An answered prayer? Maybe it's a sunset that blows your mind - and all you want to do is thank him.
I've not come up with the answer to my question. Nothing seems adequate.
In today's Bible time, I read Psalm 116, and David asks this same question. What shall I return to the Lord for all his goodness to me?, David ponders in verse 12. Indeed, what shall I return, for I have nothing. Everything in my life is God's. He allows me to love my children and husband, but they are his. He allows me to use his money, but it's his. He graciously lets me see a peek of the splendor he created in the heavens, but it's not mine. Humbling, isn't it? Homelesss, penniless, yet proud. Not words I would choose if you asked me to describe myself.
I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people. In verses 13 and 14 David raises his cup in acknowledgment and thanksgiving, and he continues to call on the Lord. He doesn't stop asking God for blessings - he wants all that God has in store for him. He then states that he will obey God and continue to serve him. I'm in awe by this point because I finally have an answer!
It's so simple, isn't it? It all goes back to God. I've once again tried to make it about me, but it's about God. All he wants is for me to thank him, to obey him and to rely on him as my constant provider. He is the giver of all good things and , I mean nothing, I do or say can even come close to being enough. In his grace, he just asks for a humble whisper from the depths of my soul. "'Thank you, my Lord."
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Listening to what I hear
It's a typical day in the new reality of having a start-up business. Trying to keep focused on the tasks at hand like paying bills, taking care of HR, and correct journal entries, while doing laundry, preparing dinner, cleaning the house, honoring church commitments and spending time with the Lord.
And it's there, at the bottom of my list, that I find solace every day. God designed us to need to refuel with him every day. Satan tries to distract us with fatigue, over-sheduling and being task-oriented so that we ignore God. We set him aside for those things that are seemingly more important. Re-read that. Yep, we do it, and it grieves our gracioius Father.
I'm taking a break to go over what I heard on the radio, read on my email devotionals, and glanced over as I skimmed a completed study. Here it goes: God wants us to cry out to him like David did. It's how we put him first and give ourselves up to his mercy and grace. When we remove God from our life, like at school, we fall away from him and into the devil's plan. God has an incredible plan for each of us, even when we can't see the whole picture. We must worship him, and we do this by doing everything for his glory and letting his light shine through us so that others see him.
So what am I to do with the daily messages that blow through my brain? I finally realized that I will never be a perfect Christian. But when I study the Bible every day and spend quiet time with him, God is my focus and my reason for living. I will have moments of revelation and moments of remembering. It's about God working in my life and my honoring him.
Let us not feel guilty about not being productive when we spend time with God, alone in prayer and study. Reframe it and think of how incredibly blessed we are to have a personal appearance with the King of Creation any time we want it.
Amen
And it's there, at the bottom of my list, that I find solace every day. God designed us to need to refuel with him every day. Satan tries to distract us with fatigue, over-sheduling and being task-oriented so that we ignore God. We set him aside for those things that are seemingly more important. Re-read that. Yep, we do it, and it grieves our gracioius Father.
I'm taking a break to go over what I heard on the radio, read on my email devotionals, and glanced over as I skimmed a completed study. Here it goes: God wants us to cry out to him like David did. It's how we put him first and give ourselves up to his mercy and grace. When we remove God from our life, like at school, we fall away from him and into the devil's plan. God has an incredible plan for each of us, even when we can't see the whole picture. We must worship him, and we do this by doing everything for his glory and letting his light shine through us so that others see him.
So what am I to do with the daily messages that blow through my brain? I finally realized that I will never be a perfect Christian. But when I study the Bible every day and spend quiet time with him, God is my focus and my reason for living. I will have moments of revelation and moments of remembering. It's about God working in my life and my honoring him.
Let us not feel guilty about not being productive when we spend time with God, alone in prayer and study. Reframe it and think of how incredibly blessed we are to have a personal appearance with the King of Creation any time we want it.
Amen
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Faithfulness
I don't know how to thank God. There aren't enough words to express my immense gratitude for what he has done for me, and for what he does for me daily. I search the scriptures, looking for answers. And I find that it's me. He wants me, everything I am, everything I have. Every thought, every action, every word.
With this I write about his faithfulness. We read stories about God's faithfulness, from Genesis to Revelation. We often forget to take the time to reflect on our lives to see that nothing has changed. Why would it?!
We finally have a buyer for our house! It has been two and a half years, and it looks like it will be sold. We prayed about moving for a year. We finally decided to take a leap of faith and buy the house without selling ours first. Three months went by, then six, nine. Wow! At one year, God brought us a family to rent the house. They took care of it and loved it like their own. What a blessing!
The year was up, and we relisted the house. Six months later, it will be sold. The buyers are so excited about it, and I am thrilled that they will be building a life in the house that holds so many precious memories for us.
This waiting represents so much for me. I fasted and prayed for three and a half years to get to this point. Sounds silly, doesn't it? For a house? But it was about seeking God's will in my life. It was about trusting him with everything I have. I didn't stress about this because I knew God would provide and that I needed to trust in his plan. It taught me to pray in his timing, not mine. It reinforced that praying and reading the Bible lead to taking the stories of his past faithfulness as truth in my life today.
So I am thankful for the house selling, but it's the rich blessing of knowing without a doubt that God is with me and caring for me that is the best. It is seeing that he is making me into more than I was before.Take time to see the Lord's faithfulness throughout your life and rejoice in his favor.
With this I write about his faithfulness. We read stories about God's faithfulness, from Genesis to Revelation. We often forget to take the time to reflect on our lives to see that nothing has changed. Why would it?!
We finally have a buyer for our house! It has been two and a half years, and it looks like it will be sold. We prayed about moving for a year. We finally decided to take a leap of faith and buy the house without selling ours first. Three months went by, then six, nine. Wow! At one year, God brought us a family to rent the house. They took care of it and loved it like their own. What a blessing!
The year was up, and we relisted the house. Six months later, it will be sold. The buyers are so excited about it, and I am thrilled that they will be building a life in the house that holds so many precious memories for us.
This waiting represents so much for me. I fasted and prayed for three and a half years to get to this point. Sounds silly, doesn't it? For a house? But it was about seeking God's will in my life. It was about trusting him with everything I have. I didn't stress about this because I knew God would provide and that I needed to trust in his plan. It taught me to pray in his timing, not mine. It reinforced that praying and reading the Bible lead to taking the stories of his past faithfulness as truth in my life today.
So I am thankful for the house selling, but it's the rich blessing of knowing without a doubt that God is with me and caring for me that is the best. It is seeing that he is making me into more than I was before.Take time to see the Lord's faithfulness throughout your life and rejoice in his favor.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Fasting
It's the beginning of the year, and it's time to fast. What a joy it is to give up food for 21 days and focus on my relationship with God. This sounds so "out there" to many, but I know God calls me to fast through Scripture.
And during this time everything is accentuated - the lyrics floating from the radio pop are felt even more than usual. "You lead, I follow." "My hope is in You." "Sing until the whole world hears." "My deliverer, you rescued me from all that held me captive."
Of course, the fast food signs seem bigger, too!! But I know that my desire to obey God is stronger than my desire for fresh, hot, salty french fries. Really.
I saw how God answered my prayers during last year's fast. It wasn't how I had envisioned them being answered, but he provided in his time and in his way. He truly is an awesome God - he sustained me for 21 days without food, and he feeds my spirit every minute of the day
And so I think him with tears of gratitude because the words just aren't there. I am so overwhelmed when I look back through the years, and days, and his blessed provision in my life. Hands lifted up and a heart for him are all I can offer. And because he is God, it's enough. So I offer my fast to him - may these next couple of weeks please Jesus as I model his teaching and leading. Amen.
And during this time everything is accentuated - the lyrics floating from the radio pop are felt even more than usual. "You lead, I follow." "My hope is in You." "Sing until the whole world hears." "My deliverer, you rescued me from all that held me captive."
Of course, the fast food signs seem bigger, too!! But I know that my desire to obey God is stronger than my desire for fresh, hot, salty french fries. Really.
I saw how God answered my prayers during last year's fast. It wasn't how I had envisioned them being answered, but he provided in his time and in his way. He truly is an awesome God - he sustained me for 21 days without food, and he feeds my spirit every minute of the day
And so I think him with tears of gratitude because the words just aren't there. I am so overwhelmed when I look back through the years, and days, and his blessed provision in my life. Hands lifted up and a heart for him are all I can offer. And because he is God, it's enough. So I offer my fast to him - may these next couple of weeks please Jesus as I model his teaching and leading. Amen.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Family celebrations
This past week has been a quick one as we begin to wind down the summer. The higlight has been the time we had my cousin's daughter with us. Hannah is 10, and she and Maren are two peas in a pod! When we first reconnected two years ago at Disneyland, we were amazed at their immediate bond and how much alike they are. The girls have emailed and talked across the miles between Edwardsville, Illinois, and Tustin, California, to maintain their relationship. I'm sure it helps that we spent a week together last summer!
We have been so blessed to have spend this time with Hannah, building memories at the water park, movies, City Museum, and just playing with the kitten. All of us will remember this time together. We'll remember Bongo clothes from the trailer at the movie theater because Hannah thought they were awesome and she thought it would be cool to have a photo with Maren in new Bongo outfits. (Thanks to their grandmas, her wish came true!)
Our time with Hannah at our house culminated with a party - a 60th Anniversary party in Springfield, IL, for my great aunt and uncle. Many relatives who I really don't know where there. I see them every few years, but I don't have a relationship with them. My husband and kids were great - they ate and talked to the people they knew, but they didn't mingle with those outside the circle. We heard the usual strains of, "Those boys are getting so tall!" and "You have grown so much since I last saw you!" They engaged when necessary then retreated to the comfort of their seats and full plates.
The anniversary party was special because the kids were with their cousins and family. They saw their grandma have a great time mingling with her cousins. They saw their cousin scoop icing off the decorated anniversary cake with a toy ice cream scoop - not Hannah! But I hope they remember that sometimes life isn't about us. We could have had time with the more immediate family going to the lake or the pool, but this day was about celebrating 60 years of marriage!
60 years is a long time, and Aunt Marie and Uncle Keith were the stars. My uncle commented that he didn't think he'd make it to the party since he had two heart attacks in the week before the party! It was truly a celebration, and they had a great time with their family and friends.
Relationships take time and energy to keep them alive. I pray that my kids will take the time to talk with their cousins and get together so they continue the bond they have started. And I pray that they will remember that life isn't always about them, that it is good for them to rejoice with others, to help others, to play a supporting role from time to time. There is always something to be learned or enjoyed when we look for it. Being a friend or family member isn't about having everyone look at us. It's about enjoying life together and considering the feelings of those we love.
It will be interesting to see what they each remember from this weekend when we bring it up at a cousin's wedding 15 years from now. I am confident that it will be that they were with their family, at a 60th anniversary party - from there, it's anyone's guess!
We have been so blessed to have spend this time with Hannah, building memories at the water park, movies, City Museum, and just playing with the kitten. All of us will remember this time together. We'll remember Bongo clothes from the trailer at the movie theater because Hannah thought they were awesome and she thought it would be cool to have a photo with Maren in new Bongo outfits. (Thanks to their grandmas, her wish came true!)
Our time with Hannah at our house culminated with a party - a 60th Anniversary party in Springfield, IL, for my great aunt and uncle. Many relatives who I really don't know where there. I see them every few years, but I don't have a relationship with them. My husband and kids were great - they ate and talked to the people they knew, but they didn't mingle with those outside the circle. We heard the usual strains of, "Those boys are getting so tall!" and "You have grown so much since I last saw you!" They engaged when necessary then retreated to the comfort of their seats and full plates.
The anniversary party was special because the kids were with their cousins and family. They saw their grandma have a great time mingling with her cousins. They saw their cousin scoop icing off the decorated anniversary cake with a toy ice cream scoop - not Hannah! But I hope they remember that sometimes life isn't about us. We could have had time with the more immediate family going to the lake or the pool, but this day was about celebrating 60 years of marriage!
60 years is a long time, and Aunt Marie and Uncle Keith were the stars. My uncle commented that he didn't think he'd make it to the party since he had two heart attacks in the week before the party! It was truly a celebration, and they had a great time with their family and friends.
Relationships take time and energy to keep them alive. I pray that my kids will take the time to talk with their cousins and get together so they continue the bond they have started. And I pray that they will remember that life isn't always about them, that it is good for them to rejoice with others, to help others, to play a supporting role from time to time. There is always something to be learned or enjoyed when we look for it. Being a friend or family member isn't about having everyone look at us. It's about enjoying life together and considering the feelings of those we love.
It will be interesting to see what they each remember from this weekend when we bring it up at a cousin's wedding 15 years from now. I am confident that it will be that they were with their family, at a 60th anniversary party - from there, it's anyone's guess!
Monday, July 11, 2011
Summer days - finding time for the right food
Summer days are... Different for each of us! I couldn't wait for summer so our schedule would relax and our evenings wouldn't be so rushed. We could lounge at the pool, then head off to ballgames. Well, this summer hasn't been so peaceful. The kids are older, which means we have more to fill our days. And they really don't care about my schedule, so I've got to be disciplined.
But holding a schedule is difficult for me during the summer. Sure the bills are paid and the house is relatively clean, but I'm not on my game. There is a hole in my life, and it's time with God. Or as the kids learned at camp, it's TAWG. (Time Alone With God)
I have found TAWG to be critical in getting through my day - Bible study and prayer are the foundations of keeping my life together. Summer changes that because the kids are home and I feel guilty taking time from them. But I shouldn't. Summer changes that because we are still busy and there is more laundry, more meals, and more mess. But it shouldn't take away my time with God. Summer changes that because my husband and I are busy, passing by each other and maybe sitting in the car on the way to a ball game, and he takes a phone call and I lower the volume of the radio. But this shouldn't be.
So I am asking God to forgive me for my wrong priorities. I need him to be my portion everyday, not just when it's convenient to my schedule. It's fun how God works in our hearts every time we open the Bible. Today when I read about "working for food that doesn't spoil," I knew he was speaking to me. My work is to be glorifying God through my prayers and actions. Sure, I am to take care of my children and our material items, but God is to be number one. And my husband #2. Oh, that doesn't sound good! My husband is to be my second priority, not the person I give my leftovers to because he'll take them. :)
So let's work together and find our time with God every day and work for food that doesn't spoil, for water that will forever quench our thirst. But I do need an iced tea - it's nearly 100 degrees today!
But holding a schedule is difficult for me during the summer. Sure the bills are paid and the house is relatively clean, but I'm not on my game. There is a hole in my life, and it's time with God. Or as the kids learned at camp, it's TAWG. (Time Alone With God)
I have found TAWG to be critical in getting through my day - Bible study and prayer are the foundations of keeping my life together. Summer changes that because the kids are home and I feel guilty taking time from them. But I shouldn't. Summer changes that because we are still busy and there is more laundry, more meals, and more mess. But it shouldn't take away my time with God. Summer changes that because my husband and I are busy, passing by each other and maybe sitting in the car on the way to a ball game, and he takes a phone call and I lower the volume of the radio. But this shouldn't be.
So I am asking God to forgive me for my wrong priorities. I need him to be my portion everyday, not just when it's convenient to my schedule. It's fun how God works in our hearts every time we open the Bible. Today when I read about "working for food that doesn't spoil," I knew he was speaking to me. My work is to be glorifying God through my prayers and actions. Sure, I am to take care of my children and our material items, but God is to be number one. And my husband #2. Oh, that doesn't sound good! My husband is to be my second priority, not the person I give my leftovers to because he'll take them. :)
So let's work together and find our time with God every day and work for food that doesn't spoil, for water that will forever quench our thirst. But I do need an iced tea - it's nearly 100 degrees today!
Friday, April 8, 2011
Snoring before sunrise
It's 4:15 a.m., and I'm wide awake. Been awake for hours because it's God's time. Several times a week God wakens me for him. It may be for 30 minutes, or it may be for three hours. How do I know it's him and not just a sleepless night? Well, my awake time isn't about the next day's to do list or worrying about my kids. It's about prayer - who is on my heart or what God has placed on my heart.
These past few hours have been prayer-related for people and a new family-time event that we are planning at church. How do I get through the next day? Again, it's God sustaining me. He created us to sleep, and when he deems that I've had enough shut-eye, it's time to work. I'm quite excited about the plan for the Sunday afternoon water blast and how to incorporate some lessons that will reach our families while also having a memorable time with each other. I am very thankful that God calls me to service and he doesn't ask me to do it on my own power. So I'm lying in bed, praying and planning, singing energetic songs in my head for the event. And I'm called to get up and type. "Write this stuff down," God nudges. "But I'm so comfy. I'll get it down after I get the kids to school, after I sign checks at church, after the kitchen is cleaned up, after my emails are dealt with, after I drop off the stuff for the social tonight - really before I go to Bible study I'll do it." "Now." "Okay."
So I get ready to get out of bed, and I look over at my peacefully sleeping husband who is snoring. And his snoring doesn't keep time with the songs in my head, but that's okay. And I stop and pray for him. Not because he's snoring! But because he's a rock for me. He such a hard-working, God-loving, do anything for us kind of man. He has worked his tail off to provide for us and to use his gifts from God to make this world a better place through his love, time, talents and money. I have to stop and thank God for my husband, because honestly, there are days that we are lost in the madness of the world to each other. We make sure everything is taken care of for the kids and business. We don't leave anyone at school. Bellies are full. But my heart wants more sometimes. And I have to give to him, too. God gave us to each other, and marrige is truly a gift. On the days when he's popping his gum, putting a Pop-Tart wrapper in his empty milk glass or just being less than I want him to be, I need to stop and put it in perspective and remember unconditional love for this man with whom I share my life. Just like he needs to love me when I'm right or more focused on the kids' needs than his.
I think it's fun how God multitasks in my life. He honors my obedience and creates ways for me to get my work done and to focus on the important parts of life. Once sunrise hits and the snoring ceases, my call is to obey and show my love more to my husband and make him a priority. Fed Ex morning delivery is not nearly as urgent a message as God putting it on my heart before daybreak. Time to write the other stuff down before the battery goes...
These past few hours have been prayer-related for people and a new family-time event that we are planning at church. How do I get through the next day? Again, it's God sustaining me. He created us to sleep, and when he deems that I've had enough shut-eye, it's time to work. I'm quite excited about the plan for the Sunday afternoon water blast and how to incorporate some lessons that will reach our families while also having a memorable time with each other. I am very thankful that God calls me to service and he doesn't ask me to do it on my own power. So I'm lying in bed, praying and planning, singing energetic songs in my head for the event. And I'm called to get up and type. "Write this stuff down," God nudges. "But I'm so comfy. I'll get it down after I get the kids to school, after I sign checks at church, after the kitchen is cleaned up, after my emails are dealt with, after I drop off the stuff for the social tonight - really before I go to Bible study I'll do it." "Now." "Okay."
So I get ready to get out of bed, and I look over at my peacefully sleeping husband who is snoring. And his snoring doesn't keep time with the songs in my head, but that's okay. And I stop and pray for him. Not because he's snoring! But because he's a rock for me. He such a hard-working, God-loving, do anything for us kind of man. He has worked his tail off to provide for us and to use his gifts from God to make this world a better place through his love, time, talents and money. I have to stop and thank God for my husband, because honestly, there are days that we are lost in the madness of the world to each other. We make sure everything is taken care of for the kids and business. We don't leave anyone at school. Bellies are full. But my heart wants more sometimes. And I have to give to him, too. God gave us to each other, and marrige is truly a gift. On the days when he's popping his gum, putting a Pop-Tart wrapper in his empty milk glass or just being less than I want him to be, I need to stop and put it in perspective and remember unconditional love for this man with whom I share my life. Just like he needs to love me when I'm right or more focused on the kids' needs than his.
I think it's fun how God multitasks in my life. He honors my obedience and creates ways for me to get my work done and to focus on the important parts of life. Once sunrise hits and the snoring ceases, my call is to obey and show my love more to my husband and make him a priority. Fed Ex morning delivery is not nearly as urgent a message as God putting it on my heart before daybreak. Time to write the other stuff down before the battery goes...
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Fast Start to the Year
For twenty-one days, I am going to eat nothing. I'm going to drink fruit and veggie juices instead. Really? Me, the consummate foodie?!
I felt God leading me to do this, so I'm following that call. I'm 5 days into this and I'll tell you that it's going well. But those cheeseburgers I made for dinner really got to me. And the chips. And the salad. It's the first time in these five days that the lure of food was strong.
But I resisted. Why? Because I want this time for reliance on God to be my portion. I am wanting to draw even closer to him because I want to walk in obedience. I want his light to shine through me. I am praying for wisdom as I serve the church this year. I am begging for discernment and wisdom as we look to start a new business.
That means I need "big God." I am wanting him in my life in a big way, so I am sacrificing in a big way and relying on him. I have previously only fasted for one day at a time. This is out of my realm of experience, but I'm excited to have him sustain me. Let me share a story with you.
We had just returned home from the grocery store, and I was putting the week's worth of groceries away. Oh, yeah. Not groceries for my meals, but those for my family! I was down to my last bag and the kids had their chips and cheese dip out. "God," I asked, "how does my not eating glorify you? Does my fasting really honor you?" Everything I had read stated that fasting and prayer are both important parts of a Christian's discipline. But I wanted to ask him.
A minute later I opened a drawer to look for an item. In front of my face was $170 and a picture of a GPS from a Target ad. This money had been missing for two weeks! I had set this money in this drawer, I thought, after I removed it from the card. I was going to the bank the next day and couldn't find the money. I searched everywhere in the kitchen. I looked in that drawer at least 20 times. I took everything out. I went through the trash, rummaged through the recycling bins, and the empty Christmas boxes. The money was nowhere to be found. Until God asnswered my question. Yes, fasting honors him.
So I fast. And those hamburgers didn't smell nearly as sweet as the possibility of hearing the words of Jesus one day when he says, "Well done."
I felt God leading me to do this, so I'm following that call. I'm 5 days into this and I'll tell you that it's going well. But those cheeseburgers I made for dinner really got to me. And the chips. And the salad. It's the first time in these five days that the lure of food was strong.
But I resisted. Why? Because I want this time for reliance on God to be my portion. I am wanting to draw even closer to him because I want to walk in obedience. I want his light to shine through me. I am praying for wisdom as I serve the church this year. I am begging for discernment and wisdom as we look to start a new business.
That means I need "big God." I am wanting him in my life in a big way, so I am sacrificing in a big way and relying on him. I have previously only fasted for one day at a time. This is out of my realm of experience, but I'm excited to have him sustain me. Let me share a story with you.
We had just returned home from the grocery store, and I was putting the week's worth of groceries away. Oh, yeah. Not groceries for my meals, but those for my family! I was down to my last bag and the kids had their chips and cheese dip out. "God," I asked, "how does my not eating glorify you? Does my fasting really honor you?" Everything I had read stated that fasting and prayer are both important parts of a Christian's discipline. But I wanted to ask him.
A minute later I opened a drawer to look for an item. In front of my face was $170 and a picture of a GPS from a Target ad. This money had been missing for two weeks! I had set this money in this drawer, I thought, after I removed it from the card. I was going to the bank the next day and couldn't find the money. I searched everywhere in the kitchen. I looked in that drawer at least 20 times. I took everything out. I went through the trash, rummaged through the recycling bins, and the empty Christmas boxes. The money was nowhere to be found. Until God asnswered my question. Yes, fasting honors him.
So I fast. And those hamburgers didn't smell nearly as sweet as the possibility of hearing the words of Jesus one day when he says, "Well done."
Monday, November 1, 2010
Just Another Manic Monday
It's Monday morning, and I'm ready! I'm taking to heart our last week's Bible study and I'm going to apply it. Really. I am.
See, I no longer will focus on what I have to do. The lists will no longer own my day. I will own the lists and tasks that are written on them. It's because I'm blessed in so many ways that I will have the opportunity to make this day something special.
I get to do four loads of laundry. I get to plan the week's menu and shop for groceries. I get to make sure lunches are packed and wrestling gear is taken to school. I get to update my financial records on the computer. I get to scrub toilets and clean my house. I get to attend a meeting at church regarding our renovated building.
When a life focuses on all of the blessings that God has provided, our days take on a different hue. We can rejoice that Jesus has died for us so that we can be compassionate to that person who dropped the ball on the project at work. We can thank God for our health that allows us to take care of the house He has provided and the family He has given to us.
It's a simple change of words that simply changes our hearts and how we live. If we all did this, think about how our days would change and how much our relationships with the people in our lives would smooth over. Our tasks will be rewards, and the people we interact with today will be seen as blessings in all circumstances.
Gotta run - I get to start another load of sheets and then take my daughter to school.
Mindy
See, I no longer will focus on what I have to do. The lists will no longer own my day. I will own the lists and tasks that are written on them. It's because I'm blessed in so many ways that I will have the opportunity to make this day something special.
I get to do four loads of laundry. I get to plan the week's menu and shop for groceries. I get to make sure lunches are packed and wrestling gear is taken to school. I get to update my financial records on the computer. I get to scrub toilets and clean my house. I get to attend a meeting at church regarding our renovated building.
When a life focuses on all of the blessings that God has provided, our days take on a different hue. We can rejoice that Jesus has died for us so that we can be compassionate to that person who dropped the ball on the project at work. We can thank God for our health that allows us to take care of the house He has provided and the family He has given to us.
It's a simple change of words that simply changes our hearts and how we live. If we all did this, think about how our days would change and how much our relationships with the people in our lives would smooth over. Our tasks will be rewards, and the people we interact with today will be seen as blessings in all circumstances.
Gotta run - I get to start another load of sheets and then take my daughter to school.
Mindy
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Alone... and bored!
The kids are back in school. It's day two, and I'm bored! Oh, I have plenty to do. More laundry to fold. The dishwasher is beeping to remind me of my part of the process. Dust is making beautiful designs on the furniture. But dinner is in the crockpot! Does that count?
Back-to-school is such a time of change for all of us. More pressure to be organized and on the ball. Less time for family fun. And I'm at home, all alone, with my own work begging to be done. Everything was organized and lovely at the end of May because I knew it wouldn't get done over the summer. Come on, baseball and swimming were so much more important than filing paperwork!
But here I am, looking around, wondering where to start. My calendar is filling up with volunteer appointments and visiting friends, but the bulk of my work is here. at home. by myself. It's too quiet. No one is fighting. No one is watching Disney Channel. Just me, myself and a long to-do list. I don't need a job, because I have one. I just don't want to do it today. Maybe I need a vacation. Summer vacation, anyone? Oh, yeah. Better wash the beach towels first.
Back-to-school is such a time of change for all of us. More pressure to be organized and on the ball. Less time for family fun. And I'm at home, all alone, with my own work begging to be done. Everything was organized and lovely at the end of May because I knew it wouldn't get done over the summer. Come on, baseball and swimming were so much more important than filing paperwork!
But here I am, looking around, wondering where to start. My calendar is filling up with volunteer appointments and visiting friends, but the bulk of my work is here. at home. by myself. It's too quiet. No one is fighting. No one is watching Disney Channel. Just me, myself and a long to-do list. I don't need a job, because I have one. I just don't want to do it today. Maybe I need a vacation. Summer vacation, anyone? Oh, yeah. Better wash the beach towels first.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Summer storms
There was lightning that wouldn't stop, and it was accompanied by deep, rolling thunder. Our family from southern California was enthralled by the storms that we experience in the midwest. During their five nights with us, we had three thunderstorms!
Once again a thunderstorm popped up while we were recently visiting family near Kansas City. My kids and I were swimming in a great community pool, and my husband was golfing as the dark clouds rolled in. Back at the club house, we were all wondering how the evening would be - unbearably humid or cooler and lovely? Thunderstorms tend to make it one way or the other, but we have to wait and see.
I was thinking that our lives are like that. Each experience we have can go one way... or the other. God allows our lives to take various twists and turns. We can't always predict which way it will go. But we trust that it's ok because he is with us. God is a constant in our lives, and he always works for good in those who love him. It's such a simple concept! But we fail to remember that the muggy night is part of God's creation, just like the cool, breezy summer night. We are to find to the joy in every circumstance and be grateful for what he has provided.
I'm so grateful that God allows us to wrestle with these questions without getting annoyed at us and whopping us with a heavenly-sized fly swatter. Which decision is the right one? Where should I live? If the choices we make do not cause us to sin and they are in line with God's will for us, we should rejoice in the life he has given us and go forward with boldness, knowing that he will be with us no matter what the outcome is - muggy or cool and lovely.
Once again a thunderstorm popped up while we were recently visiting family near Kansas City. My kids and I were swimming in a great community pool, and my husband was golfing as the dark clouds rolled in. Back at the club house, we were all wondering how the evening would be - unbearably humid or cooler and lovely? Thunderstorms tend to make it one way or the other, but we have to wait and see.
I was thinking that our lives are like that. Each experience we have can go one way... or the other. God allows our lives to take various twists and turns. We can't always predict which way it will go. But we trust that it's ok because he is with us. God is a constant in our lives, and he always works for good in those who love him. It's such a simple concept! But we fail to remember that the muggy night is part of God's creation, just like the cool, breezy summer night. We are to find to the joy in every circumstance and be grateful for what he has provided.
I'm so grateful that God allows us to wrestle with these questions without getting annoyed at us and whopping us with a heavenly-sized fly swatter. Which decision is the right one? Where should I live? If the choices we make do not cause us to sin and they are in line with God's will for us, we should rejoice in the life he has given us and go forward with boldness, knowing that he will be with us no matter what the outcome is - muggy or cool and lovely.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Domestic tranquilty - how money plays into this
The big news is that Americans are going to have to one day confront our national debt. President Obama is signing a bill to raise our debt ceiling. Great for now, but...
Our country needs to wake upand look at our lifestyle and recognize the need for true change. We need to reevaluate our lives and how money ties into domestic traquility. I know that my household is much more peaceful when our bills are being paid and we live within our means. As a country, we will live more peacefully when we do not owe so much to the world. Our comfort is in the hands of our creditors, which is a scary thought.
Maybe it's time to look at relative simplicity in our lives. Select sports may go out the window, as well as voice lessons and competitive dance teams. We may make more meals at home and invite friends over to spend the evening at our house and not the nearest restaurant. One parent may decide to stay out of the workforce and focus on the family and volunteering in the community or church.
This approach will result in a short-term economic struggle because consumption will not quickly resume to the levels that sustained our binge. This means our enemployment rate will not quickly come down, but it doesn't mean that our country will be in danger. It means that our country will have happier families which are the basis of society. If we have stronger families, we have happier and more productive children who will feel loved for who they are, not what they accomplish.
It's an interesting idea that will need time to take hold. Let's stop and ask our grandparents what they loved most about growing up. I remember my mom recalling her family's Sunday afternoons - drives to friends' houses, or the family coming over to play cards. Real interaction, not social networking.
This is a crazy time for many reasons, and I don't have the time to address every one of them in this session. I just want to start with the idea of fiscal domestic tranquility in our private lives - we need to be pioneers in restraint. Can we do it? Can we really disengage ourselves from the overconsumption of vacations and "me" time? Can we pull our kids out of activities that are over-the-top and really not beneficial?
We can't expect our politicians to do what we're not willing to do, so let's put our money where our mouths are!
Our country needs to wake upand look at our lifestyle and recognize the need for true change. We need to reevaluate our lives and how money ties into domestic traquility. I know that my household is much more peaceful when our bills are being paid and we live within our means. As a country, we will live more peacefully when we do not owe so much to the world. Our comfort is in the hands of our creditors, which is a scary thought.
Maybe it's time to look at relative simplicity in our lives. Select sports may go out the window, as well as voice lessons and competitive dance teams. We may make more meals at home and invite friends over to spend the evening at our house and not the nearest restaurant. One parent may decide to stay out of the workforce and focus on the family and volunteering in the community or church.
This approach will result in a short-term economic struggle because consumption will not quickly resume to the levels that sustained our binge. This means our enemployment rate will not quickly come down, but it doesn't mean that our country will be in danger. It means that our country will have happier families which are the basis of society. If we have stronger families, we have happier and more productive children who will feel loved for who they are, not what they accomplish.
It's an interesting idea that will need time to take hold. Let's stop and ask our grandparents what they loved most about growing up. I remember my mom recalling her family's Sunday afternoons - drives to friends' houses, or the family coming over to play cards. Real interaction, not social networking.
This is a crazy time for many reasons, and I don't have the time to address every one of them in this session. I just want to start with the idea of fiscal domestic tranquility in our private lives - we need to be pioneers in restraint. Can we do it? Can we really disengage ourselves from the overconsumption of vacations and "me" time? Can we pull our kids out of activities that are over-the-top and really not beneficial?
We can't expect our politicians to do what we're not willing to do, so let's put our money where our mouths are!
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Nobody knows the trouble we'll have...
How interesting it is to read the headlines. Yesterday's finanical headlines focused on how the unemployment numbers would be higher, oil was falling, and that home prices would be falling by double digits this year. I just scanned the news and oil is up for the fourth day, median home prices are stable, and unemployment numbers are much better than anticiapted.
All of this confirms what we already know - nobody know the troubles we'll have, or the great times that are ahead. If we had listened to the experts two years ago, oil would be at $200 a barrel instead of trading at $71. I am one who follows the market, and I need to know what's going on today. But why?
Does it matter what my IRA is worth right now, because it certainly won't be the same in 30 years or in 30 minutes. Life changes on a dime. I cannot be secure in my government or my assets because they are based on the actions and wisdom of others. I can, however, be certain of my future as a child of God. I know where I need to focus my time and talents. I know how to treat others and enrich my life in Christ Jesus. I know that my life has a part II where I will be in his glorious presence.
While the world around is like a carousel, going up and down while going round and round, I am standing in one place looking up. It's stabilizing and comforting to know my path, even though it is landscaped with thorns and weeds that try to entice me off the straight and narrow path.
It is this focus that enables me to filter the noise of the world. The abundant love and mercy that God gives me is the greatest gift, and I try to teach my children about the compass he provides. But it can be tough, but nothing is impossible for him who believes. What a promise!
All of this confirms what we already know - nobody know the troubles we'll have, or the great times that are ahead. If we had listened to the experts two years ago, oil would be at $200 a barrel instead of trading at $71. I am one who follows the market, and I need to know what's going on today. But why?
Does it matter what my IRA is worth right now, because it certainly won't be the same in 30 years or in 30 minutes. Life changes on a dime. I cannot be secure in my government or my assets because they are based on the actions and wisdom of others. I can, however, be certain of my future as a child of God. I know where I need to focus my time and talents. I know how to treat others and enrich my life in Christ Jesus. I know that my life has a part II where I will be in his glorious presence.
While the world around is like a carousel, going up and down while going round and round, I am standing in one place looking up. It's stabilizing and comforting to know my path, even though it is landscaped with thorns and weeds that try to entice me off the straight and narrow path.
It is this focus that enables me to filter the noise of the world. The abundant love and mercy that God gives me is the greatest gift, and I try to teach my children about the compass he provides. But it can be tough, but nothing is impossible for him who believes. What a promise!
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Kids are getting less dependent
It's a bright, crisp winter morning. It's 8:00 a.m. and I'm in bed, waiting to hear our kids stir. The boys and their friends slept in the family room. I don't want to wake them, so I am enjoying a lazy morning. Hmm, once they awaken I'll make waffles and bacon for breakfast. They love homemade waffles, and we have no place to rush to this morning.
But it then hit me that they are less dependent on me, and it's a liberating feeling as well as a sad one. The days of me being their sun are gone - they now look to me for guidance, money, rules and love. They are capable of making many of their own plans and decisions. They're even old enough to willingly accept the consequencse of poor choices - such as not studying enough for a test or procrastinating on a project.
It's interesting to me that God created these little guys, and girls, who enter our world completely reliant on us. We love them with our heart, soul, mind and strength. It's a love that is completely overwhelming when we stop and examine it. We love with no expectations. They grow up and love us in return - they love because we first loved them. God created this relationship to reflect how he loves us - completely, unconditionally, because we are his. We grow and love him because he first loved us.
With that love we grow into the people he has called us to be. That loves extends to our children, too. They grow because of our love and support. We see glimmers of who they will be as they mature. Our love gives them the roots from which to grow. We give them the freedom to explore their gifts and passions, and we pray they make the right choice. Just like God hopes we make the right choice.
It's helpful for us to remember that God has the same expectations of us as adult children of God as we have of our children. We give them rewards when they are obedient and work to their potential, just as God promises blessings to those who are obedient to him. It's a "practice what you preach" type of lesson. So maybe as we remind our children of our expectations of them, we should pray and ask God to keep us obedient to him and his expectations of us.
But it then hit me that they are less dependent on me, and it's a liberating feeling as well as a sad one. The days of me being their sun are gone - they now look to me for guidance, money, rules and love. They are capable of making many of their own plans and decisions. They're even old enough to willingly accept the consequencse of poor choices - such as not studying enough for a test or procrastinating on a project.
It's interesting to me that God created these little guys, and girls, who enter our world completely reliant on us. We love them with our heart, soul, mind and strength. It's a love that is completely overwhelming when we stop and examine it. We love with no expectations. They grow up and love us in return - they love because we first loved them. God created this relationship to reflect how he loves us - completely, unconditionally, because we are his. We grow and love him because he first loved us.
With that love we grow into the people he has called us to be. That loves extends to our children, too. They grow because of our love and support. We see glimmers of who they will be as they mature. Our love gives them the roots from which to grow. We give them the freedom to explore their gifts and passions, and we pray they make the right choice. Just like God hopes we make the right choice.
It's helpful for us to remember that God has the same expectations of us as adult children of God as we have of our children. We give them rewards when they are obedient and work to their potential, just as God promises blessings to those who are obedient to him. It's a "practice what you preach" type of lesson. So maybe as we remind our children of our expectations of them, we should pray and ask God to keep us obedient to him and his expectations of us.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
SOTU speech
It's always interesting to see how people spin political speeches. One party will blast the POTUS and criticize every word. The other party will point out how he resonated with the American public and will accomplish all of his tremendous plans. The truth is somewhere, but I don't always see it. I listen to the speeches through the coloring of my life and my expectations of the role of government and if I like the POTUS.
I don't care for lies, whichever party is spewing them. I like truth, even if it's blunt and bold. What I don't understand is why a President would blast the Supreme Court in this speech. I don't understand why he would continue to attack the banking business, which only responded to the demands of Congress to create loan products that would allow more people to afford mortgages.
I don't understand why this President would talk about jobs creation and common sense approaches to spending now, when he has had a year to do it. Fine, get after it, but don't make it sound like a bold, new idea.
The US is in a difficult place- our standard of living is remarkable, but how do we maintain what we think is our right? We need jobs, but we refuse to work for wages that keep our products at a competitive price. We want to vilify businesses, but we desperately need them to create jobs. We want small businesses to thrive, but we hammer them with so much regulation that it's overwhelming and expensive, not to mention scary.
America, we are at a crossroads. For years we were smacked because we didn't save enough. Now we are being told that we need to consume. What's the right answer? What does the government want from us?
I think we first need to realize that the government really doesn't exist - the citizens exist. We pay taxes, we vote for officials, we have the control. Let's exercise this control and demand accountability from our legislators at all levels of government. Read proposed legislation and comment on it. Think about how government really affects your life. Then think about your day and how you could have lived it better - and do it tomorrow.
I don't care for lies, whichever party is spewing them. I like truth, even if it's blunt and bold. What I don't understand is why a President would blast the Supreme Court in this speech. I don't understand why he would continue to attack the banking business, which only responded to the demands of Congress to create loan products that would allow more people to afford mortgages.
I don't understand why this President would talk about jobs creation and common sense approaches to spending now, when he has had a year to do it. Fine, get after it, but don't make it sound like a bold, new idea.
The US is in a difficult place- our standard of living is remarkable, but how do we maintain what we think is our right? We need jobs, but we refuse to work for wages that keep our products at a competitive price. We want to vilify businesses, but we desperately need them to create jobs. We want small businesses to thrive, but we hammer them with so much regulation that it's overwhelming and expensive, not to mention scary.
America, we are at a crossroads. For years we were smacked because we didn't save enough. Now we are being told that we need to consume. What's the right answer? What does the government want from us?
I think we first need to realize that the government really doesn't exist - the citizens exist. We pay taxes, we vote for officials, we have the control. Let's exercise this control and demand accountability from our legislators at all levels of government. Read proposed legislation and comment on it. Think about how government really affects your life. Then think about your day and how you could have lived it better - and do it tomorrow.
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