WHAT A MESS!

 If my people, which are called
by my name, shall humble
themselves, and pray, and seek
my face, and turn from their wicked ways,
then will I hear from heaven,
and will forgive their sin, and will
heal their land.
II Chronicles 7:14

I've lived long enough to remember when really “big sin” was kept secret. People didn't want the world to know of their extra-marital affairs, blasphemy against God, murder of the unborn, government filth, open slander against people, corporation and government corruption of every kind. Universities are no longer places of learning, but of indoctrination in socialism. Not too many years ago, if any candidate even mentioned being a socialist, he or she wouldn't even have had their name appear on a ballot anywhere. A Russian leader once said of our country that Russia didn't have to come here to conquer our country. He said our country would defeat itself from within and we see that happening all around us.

In my impatient moments today and reading in the book of I Corinthians, 2:14, I read:

But a natural man does not accept the things
of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness
to him; and he cannot understand them,
because they are spiritually appraised.

I've decided I'm expecting too much of unsaved people be they in government or wherever and whoever they are. When I speak of unsaved people, I'm not just thinking of politicians. I'm thinking of our country as a whole. Our times now are often referred to as “post-Christian.” That term should cause us great concern as we view our country right now. By that term, there are those who are saying Christianity in our country is passe...a has been. Unsaved people really don't know any better in their behaviors without the moral compass Jesus provides in lives.

So what do we do? There's nothing I can do nation-wide, but if our President feels he may have to take some emergency measures to help restore some sanity and safety to our country, I think it's time we Christians take emergency measures and give ourselves to prayer for our country like never before. Every prayer we pray should include praying for those in our government who need Jesus. There are saved people in our government we need to pray for that they will be strengthened and encouraged in the Lord.

Many feel they have all the answers to everything that troubles our country. We often feel helpless, but shouldn't when we read that nothing is impossible with God. Our country will suffer because of it's snowballing sin and we deserve God's judgment. I may not have to suffer the persecution that is likely to come on my grandchildren, but I owe it to them and other grandchildren to pray hoping to stem God's hand of judgment on this country, at least for a time.

I can worry myself into a real tizzy about what I see in our country right now. Our faith is being attacked like never before. More and more Christians are being ridiculed to no end. However, God is sovereign, still in charge whether it feels like it or not. My focus must be on Him, Who has an ongoing love for even the worst of us.

Let's continue to be people of the Word and prayer, faithful in our service for Him both inside and outside our churches. Our lives should reflect Jesus everyday, no matter where we go. I remember the words of an old hymn that says, “Let others see Jesus in you.” Our witness and prayers will never be wasted. Our God will honor those things and our country will be the better for our love and concern. We live in the greatest country in the world.

GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!

Dear Father, I am so sorry for having been guilty of taking for granted the spiritual influence and benefits that are mine living in our wonderful country. Forgive my lack of praying for our country in general and for our leaders in particular. May Your Spirit convict Christians across our country to be earnest in prayer for our country in coming days. Thank You for Your mercy and grace shown in our lives and that is available to those who don't know You. In Jesus' precious name....Amen

GOD IS

Truly my soul waiteth upon
God: from him cometh my
salvation.
Psalm 62:1

People who have been around me of late in a situation where I can speak of Scriptural things, will know how much I've come to appreciate the word “is.” A dictionary tells me that “is” is a word that simply refers to something that has being, an actual fact. “Is” speaks of something that is confirmed whether we consider something to be positive or negative in nature.

As of late, I have come to renew my deep appreciation for Psalm 62, a Psalm written by David containing only 12 verses. I have it marked up this Psalm in my Bible about as much as can be for in this Psalm, I find so many things God IS in my life. David was going through a time of waiting. Not sure about you, but I don't like the least thing about waiting. You and I aren't the only ones with waiting times in our lives. Such goes all the way back to David and before. But in the time of waiting, the calming thing is to be able to think in a positive way, especially as we find comfort in the things of God. David made a habit of doing that.

In this chapter, we see clearly some of the things God was in David's life and those same things trickle down through time to reading his words in these days. So what/who is He in our lives today that will be constants in our lives today, constants that will never fail us, no matter our circumstances. Let's pick at this verse to see the wonderful things that shake out before our very eyes.

In verse 2 and 6, we see “He only IS my rock and my salvation...He IS my defense.

In verse 7, again we see God IS my salvation and then adds He is my glory, the rock of my strength and my refuge. Verse 8 repeats that God IS a refuge for us.

We enjoy the blessing of the SALVATION provided for us by God through Jesus and thus we have all those other blessings showered on us. He's our DEFENDER and in these days of our messed up culture, we desperately need God's defense. He's a firm ROCK we can stand on. In a wish-washy world, we have the security of belief in Him for a firm consistency. God's standards don't change. His love is a constant in our lives even when we disappoint Him. On that ROCK is a security the world can never offer or destroy. We also read that God is our REFUGE. We all at one time or another need a place of safety to run to. There we find rest, counsel and peace we can't find anywhere else.

Not just in this chapter but in many others we have more of those IS promises. I'm thinking of those “I Am's” of Jesus that are as real to us right now as back when Jesus was speaking to others. Remember:

I AM the way, the truth and the life.
I AM the door
I AM the good shepherd
I AM the living bread, the bread of life
I AM the light of the world

When Jesus says, I AM, we can count on the fact that HE IS.

.From the Old Testament through the New Testament, we have the promises of God and Jesus and of Their presence working in our lives. There is no one on earth who can promise the things God can. Human beings are faulty to say the least and cannot meet the needs given us by a loving Father and Savior.

God IS our constant, security and presence. God IS....

Thank You Father, for being our constant. Thank You for being the very breath we breath and that You surround us, working for and in us for our good and Your glory. We praise You for all the things You are in our lives that assures us of Your love and care. Help us through Your Spirit be be more aware of Your presence in and through us ll the time. In Jesus precious name...Amen

Good "OLD" Me

O God, thou hast taught me from
my youth: and hitherto have I
declared thy wondrous works.
Now also when I am old and gray headed,
O God, forsake me not; until I have
shewed thy strength unto this
generation, and thy power to
every one that is to come.
Psalm 71:17,18

It was a most unusual Mother's Day this last May. We were fairly new to our church and hadn't spent a Mother's Day or Father's Day there. Different churches do all sorts of things for special holidays so we just enjoy the sermons or congratulations however they are expressed.

At that time, I was the organist of our church. On that special day, Mothers were recognized and appreciation expressed. Something different was done I hadn't seen anywhere before. The pastor asked all mothers age 75 and over to stand. There was a gift for each one. I sat on the organ bench smiling and clapping with everyone else for the two mothers who were present. A former pastor was sitting on the front row close to the organ and he kept making motions toward me and for the life of me, I couldn't figure out the reason for his seemingly trying to signal me. He knew I qualified to be one of those mothers, but to be honest, the whole thing just flew over my head.

I've sat through Mother's Day Sunday mornings for years. I've seen mothers recognized who are the youngest, newest, most kids and oldest. I've never been any of them so have pretty much tuned it all off. This Mother's Day was no different, I thought. As we went into the next congregational song and I was busy playing the organ, it suddenly dawned on me and knew why the friend on the front row was going crazy motioning to me. I said to myself, “Glendarae, you dummy...you're 79 years old.” Generally in such a service only the oldest mother is recognized so again I tuned it all out. There were several in the congregation who knew my age and they probably thought I had lost my mind.

Never in my life have I struggled with age. I recall my sister Kay calling me the day before her 30^th birthday. She was a little taken back by the fact that in a few hours, her age would have a 3 in place of the 2 in her age. She saw it as an end to her younger days with a whole new era beginning. I've had others speak of such things to me, but age changes have never been an issue for me...UNTIL NOW!.

In less than 24 hours, I will arrive at the grand age of 80. I can't believe it. My body is 80 but inside, I feel more like I'm 50. I'm just as active now as in the past and am in good health with some of the usual aches and pains that I guess are to be expected. When I have to talk to new people on the phone, they act like they are talking to someone younger. I'm told I don't have the usual 80 year old voice, but of course, I use it a lot, especially in teaching, which accounts for that. I ramble around in my mind about where I am right now, and how much more I would like to accomplish
.

This is not meant to be a pity party with only me invited. I hate things like that. We all must take steps to the reality of how God wants to use us no matter our age. No matter the age, God still wants us in the very center of His will, serving Him faithfully. I grow weary with ladies I have known who reach their latter 50's or early 60's who have faithfully served in church capacities, but who decide it's time to quit and let the younger folks do things. When that happens, out the window goes a world of wisdom and experience that even the youngest in a church can benefit from.

The first part of Psalm 13:15 says: “My times are in thy hand...” David was praying for God's protection in saying that, but in reality, our times do not belong to us. God determines our times...our coming and goings. I tell ladies and believe with all my heart that God has purpose in each of our lives and especially in mine. When those purposes are fulfilled, He'll call us home. So at this point, my age can't really be an issue. I'm to do right now all I was expected to do in my young, middle and older years. In it all, we are bathed in God's promises, such as Isaiah 46:4, that tells us:

And even to your old age I am He; and
even to hoary (gray) hairs will I carry you:
I have made, and I will bear; even I
will carry, and will deliver you.

Also remember:

But as it it is written, Eye hath not seen,

nor ear heard,
neither have entered into
the heart of man,
the things which God hath prepared for
them that love Him.
I Corinthians 2:9

Wow...I might make 100!!

Thank You Father that we are in Your complete protection and care no matter what ages we happen to be right now. Keep us serving, for we have so much to share with those who are younger. Direct our thoughts that we will be wise and loving with all You put in our paths. We love You and thank You for Your goodness to us no matter the day or year. In Jesus name...Amen

JESUS WITH SKIN ON

And the King shall answer and say
unto them, Verily I say unto you,
Inasmuch as ye have done it unto
one of the least of these my brethren,
ye have done it unto me.
Matthew 25:40

As usual, Jesus found Himself caught up in a conversation of “what if's” the good or bad folks wanted to get into with Him. He taught that if people failed to serve those in need, they could find themselves facing the worst of circumstances. However, for those who chose to serve the needy, He presented the questioners with a very provocative thought that we find in the above verse.

We had company a few months ago...our daughter Bev, JJ and Madelyn. Madelyn has to be one of the most polite and thoughtful ten year old girls I have come across. She and I talked briefly a few times about ways we treat people and its importance because everything we do for others, we are doing for Jesus. I told her I have often told ladies that we Christians are called to be “Jesus with skin on.” Jesus is in Heaven and can't be here in bodily form, face to face. As my pastor said one evening, we are called to be Jesus' feet and hands in serving others. Our conversations in this brief time were precious moments for me.

At a busy restaurant, Madelyn and I were waiting just inside the front door for her mother to come with the car. It was a bit of a brisk day and Madelyn had left her jacket in the car. It was getting even more chilly with patrons coming in and out of the door. Suddenly, Madelyn saw an older lady approaching using her walker. Without prompting, Madelyn went to open the door for the lady, causing her to stand outside where it was even colder. The lady expressed her gratitude that a young girl would be so kind. Madelyn stepped back inside the door and I quietly muttered...”Jesus with skin on.” She looked at me and smiled.

Even with a few weeks removed from Christmas, we can't forget that a baby was born in Bethlehem over 2000 years ago. He didn't come wrapped in fancy paper. That precious baby was literally God with skin on, coming to us in flesh. As He grew into manhood, He did far more for many more than any other human being on earth could possibly have done. Jesus came, preaching, teaching, healing, feeding, blessing, loving, rescuing, correcting, and personally dying for all mankind, none of whom deserved a single ounce of His love, salvation or consideration. Despite who mankind was or would be, we read:

And the Word became flesh, and dwelt
among us, and we saw His glory, glory
as of the only begotten from the Father,
full of grace and truth.
John 1:14

Jesus was God with skin on...a fact we base our very salvation on. Because He came, we live and move and have our very being in God our Father.

As Jesus returned to Heaven, we should feel a responsibility doing for Him, not for self, but for Him toward people who need us in big ways and often in the smallest of ways. What seems small to us, might be huge in the life of another. It might mean a ten year old girl opening a door for a lady with a walker, that is a large act of kindness while the girl may not feel it to be much. Being Jesus with skin on isn't just for the month of December. There are people we know and don't know who may need an act of kindness, a smile, or a congenial greeting.

One of the first things that happened to us when first visiting our present church was that a member of the church walked up to us with two bags of candy in his hands. We didn't know Charles from Adam. We soon saw that Charles makes contact with most folks in the auditorium, going from person to person prior to a service. Everyone is greeted with a smile and a choice of candy to suck on. Charles is such a refreshing person, doing something unique, but functioning in kind ways as Jesus' hands and feet. Anyone can do some little something to extend kindness and cheer as from the Lord.

What a privilege is ours stepping in to minister in the lives of others on behalf of our Savior. He is the One who will lead and direct us in this process. We are living in a depraved culture where folks need us extending our hands for Jesus that may say more than our words can. We should always be looking to minister to others, giving God all the glory for what He does through us. May we find our personal joy in Him while knowing the joy of thinking of others above ourselves...just as Jesus would have us serve.

Thank You Father for sending Jesus to do all He did/does for us. It's such a privilege of being a part of Your family...sensing Your love, care and forever relationship. May we take eyes off of ourselves and be more aware of folks around us who need Your touch, a touch that may come from You to and through us. Thank You for using us for Your kingdom. In Jesus' precious name...Amen

I WILL

Be strong and of a good courage,
fear not, nor be afraid of them: for
the Lord thy God, he it is that doth
go with thee; he will not fail
thee, nor forsake thee.
Deuteronomy 31:6

What a precious opening promise as we enter into 2019. In the above verse we have promises from God to carry us through the most difficult of times. This verse also gives us a sense of security in our Heavenly Father that no matter our circumstances, good or bad, He will always be a consistent presence in our lives especially as we anticipate a new year.

I've never been one to make resolutions for the new year. I find within a couple of weeks, I've already messed up, forgetting what I had resolved or rationalizing them away. I have found for me it is best to set some goals. I know I will fail at , but with a goal, I feel I can get up and involve myself in that goal again when necessary With a goal, it's easier to catch up.

Looking into Scripture, “I wills” are found in abundance, from Genesis on through the Word. In some cases it is God Himself or His prophets speaking for Him who may use those two words. There are times when those two words are spoken in first person by someone who has an intent to do or fulfill something.

You and I use those words all the time or at least those words in essence. As we use those words, we are saying we WILL do what we say. There was a day when one's word meant something when even just a handshake sealed an “I will.” My Grandpa bought a house with a handshake and promise of paying so much a month until the house was paid off. The banker just wanted to know what Grandpa thought he could pay a month and a note was made of that. Grandpa gave his word, handshake and that was all the banker needed.

An “I will” is a promise and we can't be casual about using those two words. I have often cautioned ladies about praying “I will” verses from a book like Psalms. When we pray an “I will” to God, He takes us very seriously. Where we might renege with other human beings, there is no reneging with God.

It's an interesting study to look at God's “I wills” to us found in Scripture, but there are many from a book like Psalms that would be worthy goals for us to consider aiming for as we look at a new year. I have listed a few worthy of our consideration. Notice that these are things we must determine in our own hearts to do with the Lord's help. Goals are hard to reach minus the leading and strengthening from Him.

Psalm 4:8....I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord only makes me dwell in safety.

Psalm 9:1...I will praise thee, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvelous works.

Psalm 13:6...I will sing unto the Lord, because he hath dealt bountifully with me.

Psalm 66:13...I will go into thy house with burnt offerings: I will pay thee my vows.

Just these few “I wills” are things we can accomplish, but not under our own power. Any of us can be people of praise. We don't have to be in church to do that. We can praise and sing to the Lord in the bathtub or shower, while driving the car, while doing chores around the house or when hiking in the mountains. He loves our praise from wherever we are.

The last verse I listed from Psalms involves one basic thing...faithfulness. The Psalmist spoke of being faithful to God's house and in keeping promises (vows). This is two areas where Christians often fall short. Many go to church if they feel like it and even at church may sign up enormous amounts of money for the building program they know they cannot fulfill. Our churches need our faithfulness and honesty that we will be all for the church we can be, in all areas giving glory to our Lord.

May each of us stretch our spiritual muscles this new year so that we will grow in Christ like never before, serving others and Jesus like never before. My prayer for us is that we will have a great year, leaving all the old stuff behind and stretching to the new and exciting.

Dear Father...We know our times are in your hands. We don't know what a new year presents to us, but we must have You with us every step of the way. You've promised to never leave or forsake us. Keep us aware through Your Spirit that without You, we are nothing. Thank You for past blessings, but for what time You have for us in 2019. In Jesus precious name...Amen

THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

And the Word was made flesh, and

dwelt among us, (and we beheld His 

glory, the glory as of the only

begotten of the Father,) full of

grace and truth.

John 1:14

When in a conference setting many years ago, there was a question/answer time held where conferees could ask questions of a speaker. I anticipated some pretty surface-type questions to be asked, but one man stood and started out with a very no-nonsense question. He asked the speaker, “What do you consider to be the most important verse in Scripture?” It was certainly an interesting question and I wondered what the speaker would come up with. The speaker paused for a moment looking to be deep in thought, but in short order simply replied:  “John 1:14.” Not wanting to take a great deal of time from others with questions, the speaker simply said, “Without the truth of that verse, you might as well burn the Book.” He said he thought it would be expected that he would have said John 3:16 but that the 1:14 verse and 3:16 are companion verses. He felt the phrase “Word was made FLESH” was of the utmost importance.

I wonder how many of us can go back in the time machine of our brains to remember even 10 items we received, spread out over ages 12 and under. I can think of some memorable times and even remember when I got a bicycle, a couple of dolls and a game or two. I still have two games in my archives received on two different Christmas days....Sorry and Cootie. It was the first year for the Cootie games. However, although in my possession, I never pull them out and rarely give them a thought. Material gifts have come and gone. We may have some major items received in our adulthood we have kept and pay more attention to. However, no matter the material gift we receive, however sturdy and well made, it can never be considered permanent. If nothing else, we quickly grow weary of “things” and crave newer things.

Brian and I recently visited a place where we saw several nativity sets. Some were huge, meant for a large house or perhaps in a church. Some looked like they were made from china while others were or simple wood carvings. Some were very colorful while others looked very drab. With most of the sets there were the usual shepherds and wise men represented, the family and some even had a few animals. (We even saw a live nativity presentation with the cutest animals one can imagine.) It was all there in figures...china, wood, plaster and even one with a brass looking finish.

The most important nativity scene for each of us is the one in our hearts. I don't need to think of anything beyond a young couple and baby in the worst of settings for the birth of a baby. For any of us who have given birth, we can recall the steps a hospital takes in keeping the surroundings clean and even sterile to prevent any infection. Jesus was God's Son. That young couple knew that and also knew God would protect Him and them.

The precious gift of the Christ-child that came first to Mary and Joseph and now down the ages to us, did not come gift wrapped like many Christmas gifts given to us. There was no fancy paper, gift bag or bows. John tells us simply that He came in the flesh...that was God's gift wrape to the world. Why is that so important? God could have sent His Son at any time or any stage of life. No, that Gift would come to life just as we did and would grow through the various stages of life just as we have. As Jesus crawled, toddled, and then walked His way through His life, He was relating to us in every way. That Gift through His life and ministry, just kept on giving to everyone He came into contact with. That perfect gift even went to a cross to die that we might have life eternal. That gift of Jesus just keeps on giving year after year.

Like most gifts, though, this gift is worth nothing to those who refuse to accept it and open it up into their lives. He isn't the common, ordinary, everyday gift. When opened, it's not like a bottle of perfume although Jesus is the sweet aroma of His presence. The gift isn't something we can physically wear even though through Jesus we are clothed in His righteousness. It isn't even a gift certificate for a nice meal at a restaurant, but we have an automatic reservation ahead of us at the marriage supper of the Lamb.

Everyday should be a celebration of Jesus in our lives. He's more than a baby in a manger. That is wonderful to ponder, but He continues giving in each of our lives His love, direction and hope of life eternal with Him. That isn't a gift I would ever want to exchange for something else. This gift of Himself is a real keeper beyond anything we could ever receive.

Thank You Father, for Your wonderful gift. No one will every be able to out give You. I pray I will always love and appreciate the gift of Your Son everyday of my life, not just during holiday seasons.

THE CHRISTMAS PIECE

Jesus Christ, the same
yesterday,
today and
forever.
Hebrews 13:8

While up until first grade, we attended a Methodist church. I learned on one occasion while four years old, (about to be five in January,) that the kids at the church dreaded the Sunday after Thanksgiving. Alma Lockman, who was in charge of the Christmas program would visit each class with strips of paper draped across her left hand. Those were what we called “Christmas pieces.” Those were the recitations children were expected to recite at the Christmas program. We, in the younger department, felt pretty good that we were exempt. However, on that Sunday, Miss Alma came into our classroom with one piece of paper left and came straight to me. She told me I would have that “piece” to give for the Christmas program. I tried to explain that I didn't know how to read, but she assured me that my mother would help me with it. And that she did.

We had a rehearsal the Saturday prior to the Sunday night program. I learned, being the youngest, that I would say my piece first to welcome the people to the program. I went up the stairs to the platform that was a little high off of the main floor and took my place. Miss Alma pointed to me to begin and I began, but I didn't get very far. There were a lot of parents and other participants in the auditorium that scared me half to death. I knew my piece, but I froze.

Miss Alma, as I remember being on the short side, walked straight toward the platform, but had to look up at me to talk to me. I'll never forget how she tenderly took hold of my ankles. She said, “Glendarae, I know you know your piece. Don't pay attention to the people who are here. Sunday night, the lights will be out except for the stage so you won't have to look at a lot of people.” She then hastened to add: “ You shouldn't be afraid, Glendarae, “Jesus is here.” WHAT? That was about all I needed to hear. I looked around the best I could, but I didn't see Him anywhere. I had seen Sunday school pictures of Him. No one there had a beard or a long robe on like I had seen in pictures on the wall of our Sunday school classroom. Miss Alma must have been mistaken.

I got through my Christmas piece fine during the program with most of the lights out, and could see Miss Alma on the front row looking at me approvingly. If Jesus showed up that night, I still didn't see Him. I will say this though. When I finished, I sat down on the front pew and I remember crossing my arms and determining in my young mind that NEVER, NEVER again would I get up and talk in front of people....NEVER. I smile at that now for many reasons as I look back on my life.

I so appreciate all the color, music, nativity scenes and choir cantatas that go along with the Christmas season. While recently reading in the book of Hebrews and coming across the above verse, I found myself thinking about the verse in terms of the holiday. Yes, Jesus is the same yesterday....His nativity, life, ministry, death and resurrection are facts as is the rest of our spiritual heritage. Those things will never change even though there have been those who have tried. We can't even begin to put together in our minds what our forever will be. We are a part of our own forever right now, but it will culminate with our entering our Heavenly Home in God's time.

I've been thinking about Jesus in our TODAY. Miss Alma Lockman came to my mind when she said, “Jesus is here.” I recall looking and looking for Him, but couldn't see Him anywhere that night. I'm thinking of today, not standing on a stage, but sitting in my living room, and how often do I think about Jesus being a vital part of my TODAY. I love and appreciate my spiritual yesterdays and my future forever, but what is my awareness of Jesus in my todays even with no holidays or trappings of them?

Someone sent me a card not long ago and ended the card with two words: GOD IS...I looked at those two words for a few minutes just trying to take them in. GOD IS and so I see that JESUS IS also. How often through holidays or just regular days of living do I remember that Jesus is a vital part of my life that goes far beyond my salvation. He is a vital presence in my life even though I can't see Him with physical eyes. Just because I don't have that kind of sight, do I ever stop to consider with spiritual eyes that JESUS IS? Thank you, Miss Alma for instilling a simple statement in the mind of a little girl that would grow to be the reality in her that was obvious in your own life.

Thank You Father for being who You are in all our lives. Thank You for the truth of Scripture that assures us of Jesus' being important to us with every move we make and breath we breathe. Thank You for being our I AM THAT I AM and for Jesus being our TODAY...our IS. In His precious name... Amen

WHAT'S IN A NAME

...so that you may know that it is I,

The LORD, the God of Israel,

who calls you by your name.

Isaiah 45:3b

In my pre-elementary school days, I hardly gave a thought to my name. Friends and relatives just called me “Glendarae” like there was no big deal about it. I never had to explain how to say my name or how to spell it. I never had to try to come up with some story as to why my parents named me as they did. I've since thought that perhaps my mother had a little too much anesthetic at the time. They didn't have anyone in particular in mind when they gave me my name. “Glendarae” wouldn't have been so bad if it had been two names...”Glenda Rae.”

My name was one word that every teacher I had in grade school on the first day of school NEVER pronounced correctly. That led to giggles from classmates and some teasing. Even in first grade, I felt sorry for my teacher, Miss Irene. She tried her best to divide my first name. My mother caught on and would keep a close check on her. Miss Irene finally did her best to print my name on the board or on our practice paper, feeling she wasn't going to win. There was no ill will between both ladies, but my mother would not give in on the spelling.

Names are important. They came to us free of charge. Our first name is something we carry throughout life and that will be imprinted on our grave stone. Friends may call us by nicknames, but bottom line is, when it comes to anything official, we still sign anything using our first and maybe middle names. I've always been happy I didn't have a middle name...that could have created some real space problems.

Putting our first and last name together can have tremendous power. I think of names that when I hear them, my heart is warmed. Family names are generally warming, especially when there have been good relationships maintained through the years. There are friends when they come to mind, bring smiles to my face. However, I hasten to add that there are names I'm familiar with where I don't have similar reactions. Some of those names I hear on the news or read of in a newspaper. Unfortunately, there are names of folks in some churches we have attended that immediately bring thoughts of people who have been disruptive, manipulative and even hateful in ways that have hurt members and leadership.

Our names automatically register pro or con with folks who think of us by name. However, it is a comfort to me when God says in Isaiah that He calls us by name. Think of that...the God and Creator of the universe... out of the billions of people who have or are living, still calls you and me by our name.

In Isaiah, we read of the coming of the Christ child, a child to be born to US. This birth was to be a gift to us all. In Isaiah 9:6, we read about just some of the things He is going to be:

For a child will be born to us, a son

will be given to us;

and the government will rest on

His shoulders;

and His name will be called

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

Those are some high expectations. When parents bring a baby into the world, their hopes and expectations for that child are high, but what the Christ child was to be in His earthly life would become a reality.

Anytime anything comes to my mind when I hear the name of Jesus in any form, warms my heart with never a negative thought. For unbelievers, unfortunately, the name of Jesus or God our Father has little meaning for them except to use in making a point in conversation. We have come to know Jesus by several names, some of which are listed in Isaiah 9. He has lived up to any name given Him by His Father.

Where we may have at times let our Heavenly Father down, He has remained faithful to us. Jesus has been a consistent presence in our lives. He has lived up to every wonderful name His Father bestowed upon Him and we to this day benefit from all He is. To top it off, He knows us and calls us by name.

Father, I'm so thankful I don't have to introduce myself to you every time I talk to You. Thank You for being my Heavenly Father Who calls me by name and Who is my help on a very personal basis. Thank You too for being Who you are for me in the thick and thin of life. I love you. In Jesus precious name....Amen

THE RING

And we know that God causes all
things to work together for good to those
who love God, to those who are called
according to his purpose.
For those whom He foreknew, He also
predestined to become conformed to
the image of His Son, so that He would
be the firstborn among many brethren;
and these whom He predestined, He
also called; and these whom He called,
He also justified; and these whom He
justified, He also glorified.
Romans 8:28-31
NASB

About seven years ago, our pastor here in Townsend at the time, mentioned in a sermon that we Christians ought to have some little something we carry that reminds us of Jesus...key ring or any number of objects. I found a small pinky ring that was simple with a small cross on it and rarely took it off up until of late. About a month ago, after a bath, my pinky ring was missing and probably down the drain. It had been loose and should have taken it off, but didn't. I've missed that little reminder as it's been such a blessing.

Recently some dear Bible study ladies gave me a monetary gift. I don't like that kind of thing but still was grateful. It was a bit of an ah-ha moment. If I were to go back to the same place, perhaps there would be another ring like the one down the drain. Well, went to the same Christian supply store and found no little ring like my other one. There were rings with crosses but the crosses had stones in the crosses. I personally don't like that sort of thing because I don't think there were any precious stones on the cross Jesus died on.

The last several months have been difficult ones for me. There have been major changes in my life probably with more to come knowing how life goes. I decided to look for another pinky ring with no idea of what it would look like. After looking over some beautiful Christian jewelry, there it was. It was sitting in a nice display of lovely rings but sort of sitting apart from the others. It was black with silver trim on the top and bottom of it. It was the wording that stood out to me although very small print for reading purposes. It simply says:

“Serenity to accept, courage to change, wisdom to know.”

Yep, all that on one little ring. I know it rings of the Serenity Prayer but the three little phrases spoke to my heart encouraging my attitude toward those very things I feel I need God's help with right now. Without our Father's strength and help, battles fought in the flesh are bound to fail. The Scripture reference I have typed out was added in very tiny print...Romans 8:28-31. Perhaps it can speak to you as well.

Serenity to accept: There are things in life we are forced to take on. There are events, people and no telling what else we are called on to accept. I often want a say in everything in my life and it just doesn't work that way when God has a better plan. He allows people and situations to enter our lives that may often be uncomfortable, but always with our good in mind. To fight such just delays God's blessings.

Courage to change: The older I get, the more I resist change. I've never liked it, but now at this stage in my life, I want things as much the same as possible. As God has worked His will in every stage of my life, He is quite able to get me through the one I'm faced with now. My response to change must be that of letting God be God. He empowers me to face change and make it count for His glory.

Wisdom to know: I want the wisdom to know what is going on in my life, but realizing I won't have all the answers. I want to manage God's gift of days in my life well and have the wisdom to know how to grow and be fruitful in Christ. We all need wisdom for a lot of things so this becomes vital in the plan my little ring presents. The world has it's theory of how to manage life. God has better answers found in His Word and through the leading of His Holy Spirit.

I'm so grateful for God's goodness in our lives and the wonderful ways He leads and directs us during difficult times. His love and working behind the scenes in our behalf is amazing. I want to be courageous for the Lord working within the parameters of His wisdom. I want to then be content...letting God be God...in whatever God chooses to allow in my life. I pray the same for you friends as well, especially as we will soon be coming up a new year. God has great things in store for us...we are a blessed people.

Thank You, Father for all You mean in my life. Your presence and love mean more to me than I can say. Thank You for friends who encourage, who step in with You to be a blessing. With the busyness of the holiday, help us all to keep our focus on those things that are important and not be distracted by all of the holiday festivities. Thank You that we have this special season, given to us with the utmost of love. In Jesus' precious name....Amen

CHRONICLES OF LIFE

Be strong and courageous, 

do not fear or be dismayed because of the

king of Assyria nor because of all the

horde that is with him;

for the one with us is greater than

the one with him.

With him is only an arm of flesh,

but with us is the Lord our God to

help us and to fight our battles.”

And the people relied on the words

of Hezekiah king of Judah.

II Chronicles 32:7-8

Let it be known that I am not a Bible scholar. If I am not, it is totally my own fault. I personally believe any Christian with serious intent can know the Scriptures as well as any seminary professor. However, I've been in the process of reading through my Bible this year and like any normal, red-blooded Christian, I left the Kings and Chronicles until last. By the time I got to the two Chronicle books, I earnestly prayed God would really show me some things I hadn't taken notice of in the past or had deliberately ignored. Told you already I'm normal although I have friends and family who would question that statement.

This happens to be the time of a new year approaching that I am really trying to find a verse or two that are words of encouragement I can return to in times of difficulty. Little did I believe I would find just such a treasure as I was nearing the end of II Chronicles but there they were and you can read them. I realize King Hezekiah was speaking to his people in the face of an oncoming enemy army, but as I read those two verses, I thought of times I felt Satan's onslaught of evil on my life. In those times I've been as scared and concerned as the folks in Judah of that day. What Hezekiah had to say to his people though, are just as on target for us and in in our own day. We have an enemy who has declared war on us, especially if we are doing all we can in Holy Spirit power to live out our faith pleasing to our Lord.

What is a chronicle? I read that a chronicle is a record of events that happened in the past that is written in chronilogical order. In the Greek, chronicles are defined as “annals of time.”

Both I and II Chronicles concludes the history-oriented books of the Old Testament. Many Christians, including me, shy away from these books that seem to be so repetitive in content. The thing that contributes to some of the repetitiveness of Chronicles especially is a familiar statement found periodically in both books. Such statements tell the reader to refer back to the books of the Kings.

Often, I've suggested to ladies I've taught to still read often in the Old Testament...it isn't outdated or and is applicable in content to our living. The Old Testament gives us information regarding God's character along with so many principles of good and godly living. Just in reading through the Chronicles, I found some principles that stood out to me in large print letters, some of which are:

*God hates sin and will always deal with it.

*There isn't any such thing as “little sins.”

*It makes no difference our standing in life, God will still deal with our sin.

*God blesses the obedient life.

*God is greater than than anything Satan can dish out.

*God will help us fight our battles...we're never left alone.

Now that was just a few things from the Chronicles I noticed but sure there are more. Here's what dawned on me. You and I are in the process of writing our own chronicles, the events of our lives that children, grandchildren and perhaps friends, will look back on after we are gone. We may not put anything in print although it would probably be good if we did, but there are people who read our lives all the time. Hopefully when people look back on our life chronicles, they will be blessed and encouraged.

Father, I thank You that every word in Your Word is important. You've provided so many nuggets from Your character for us. Empower us to walk in obedience to your Word and ways. Help us to learn from the mistakes made by people we read of in Your Word. Thank You for never leaving us alone and for loving us despite our weaknesses. We love you. In Jesus' precious name...Amen