Happy New Year!
"I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers" Ephesians 1:16
A long discussion was had today about the nature of Christians and prayer life between my husband and I. Something dawned on me, I mean, struck me as odd in my personal and public prayer life. I mean, we Christians pray for the "poverty line", sometimes praying just give me what I need....But, in reality, God tells us what we ask for in faith, he will bless it with. He will pour down the riches of heaven on us, if we look to him for all our needs. He will give to us in abundance. Why? Because he loves us! And, I, for one, have been praying this poverty line prayer when all along I have been reading scriptures like "ask and you shall receive...", "seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all things shall be added to you"...."what you ask for in faith, shall be given..." So, if I've got the faith, why aren't I asking that way?
So, I can't promise you, readers, that you won't go through troubles and difficulties this year, pain and sorrow, but I can promise you victory if you pray that way. So, why not try taking God at his word and praying for victory and the ability to overcome our adversities and pray to thrive in the world? Because, without sounding to name it and claim it, I am really starting to believe that God will bless you abundantly if you ask for it. So, ask, in faith, and believe. Ask for greatness and expect great things to happen.
So, one new years resolution I can make to you all, that I can't promise to be consistent at, is to pray for your abundance and victories this year to come. So, tonight when you celebrate with your champagne, tip a glass of celebration that this year will be the year, that in faith, you will thrive, your dreams will be met, and all your needs will be taken care of, abundantly so.
Start praying, brothers and sisters, because he is looking to answer.
"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." James 1:5
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, December 30, 2011
Day Thirty: God The Healer: Joy to the World
Day Thirty
"For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints.."Ephesians 1:15
My good friend, Luke Frechette, taught me the anagram for JOY: Jesus, Others, Yourself. In God's economy, it is a common thought that we put ourselves last, in order to find true Joy in life and our circumstances. For many years, I lived by this creed. But, in recent years, I have developed a new sense at looking at this word, Joy, and understanding this portion of scripture.
First, as the scripture reads, "put your "faith in the Lord Jesus", and it is true that in order to be of use to the world, to others, and to our own peace, development, growth in the Lord and in strength, we need to place our entire focus on the Lord Jesus. In finding him, as the song goes, the things of the world will grow strangely dim, and the worries and cares and hurts and pains of this world will fade, and our peace and joy will be manifest in his grace, mercy, and eternal friendship. Then, of course, you will be able to offer love to others, one that will benefit their spiritual enlightenment and growth in Christ.
My view of this word JOY is as an unbroken triangle, where J for Jesus is at the top with an unbroken line flowing back and forth down to Y for You on the left, which flows over to O for others as you have that unbroken continual relationship with Jesus you can give out to others, and in turn Others have an unbroken continuous connection to Jesus, which in turn they give back to you. This seems adequate to what an ideal church would be, all focused on Christ and all working together to grow in the spirit of humility, working together to focus on Christ and be transformed into his image.
And the reason we can draw close to Jesus and put our entire devotion and focus on him is found, I believe, in Max Lucado's words: Jesus "was touchable, approachable, reachable. And what's more, he was ordinary. If he were here today you probably wouldn't notice him as he walked through a shopping mall. He wouldn't turn heads by the clothes he wore or the jewelry he flashed. "Just call me Jesus."
"So people came to him. My, how they came to him! They came at night; they touched him as he walked down the street, they followed him around the sea; they invited him into their homes and placed their children at his feet."
So, focus on Jesus with reckless abandon and find your heart soaring with the freedom of his love, grace, and mercy for you. Let him write his truth on the tablet of your hearts, so that you may treasure him and carry a part of him whereever you go. For after all, He is a with you always.
"But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. For if someone comes and proclaims another Jesus than the one we proclaimed, or if you receive a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it readily enough." 2 Corinthians 11: 3-4
"For his invisible attributes, namely his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things." Romans 1:20-23
"For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints.."Ephesians 1:15
My good friend, Luke Frechette, taught me the anagram for JOY: Jesus, Others, Yourself. In God's economy, it is a common thought that we put ourselves last, in order to find true Joy in life and our circumstances. For many years, I lived by this creed. But, in recent years, I have developed a new sense at looking at this word, Joy, and understanding this portion of scripture.
First, as the scripture reads, "put your "faith in the Lord Jesus", and it is true that in order to be of use to the world, to others, and to our own peace, development, growth in the Lord and in strength, we need to place our entire focus on the Lord Jesus. In finding him, as the song goes, the things of the world will grow strangely dim, and the worries and cares and hurts and pains of this world will fade, and our peace and joy will be manifest in his grace, mercy, and eternal friendship. Then, of course, you will be able to offer love to others, one that will benefit their spiritual enlightenment and growth in Christ.
My view of this word JOY is as an unbroken triangle, where J for Jesus is at the top with an unbroken line flowing back and forth down to Y for You on the left, which flows over to O for others as you have that unbroken continual relationship with Jesus you can give out to others, and in turn Others have an unbroken continuous connection to Jesus, which in turn they give back to you. This seems adequate to what an ideal church would be, all focused on Christ and all working together to grow in the spirit of humility, working together to focus on Christ and be transformed into his image.
And the reason we can draw close to Jesus and put our entire devotion and focus on him is found, I believe, in Max Lucado's words: Jesus "was touchable, approachable, reachable. And what's more, he was ordinary. If he were here today you probably wouldn't notice him as he walked through a shopping mall. He wouldn't turn heads by the clothes he wore or the jewelry he flashed. "Just call me Jesus."
"So people came to him. My, how they came to him! They came at night; they touched him as he walked down the street, they followed him around the sea; they invited him into their homes and placed their children at his feet."
So, focus on Jesus with reckless abandon and find your heart soaring with the freedom of his love, grace, and mercy for you. Let him write his truth on the tablet of your hearts, so that you may treasure him and carry a part of him whereever you go. For after all, He is a with you always.
"But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. For if someone comes and proclaims another Jesus than the one we proclaimed, or if you receive a different gospel from the one you accepted, you put up with it readily enough." 2 Corinthians 11: 3-4
"For his invisible attributes, namely his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse. For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things." Romans 1:20-23
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Day Twenty-Eight and Twenty-Nine
Day Twenty-Eight and Day Twenty-Nine
"who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory."
Ephesians 1:14
When Jesus went to the cross, he paid for your sins and bought you back from the destruction of the world and all that is in it. Because of it, you now share in his inheritance of all of the spiritual blessings and, yes, heaven itself. The guarantee, that shows the world that you are indeed God's son, daughter, prince, or princess, is the Holy Spirit. And, that was given freely to you the moment Jesus breathed his last, forgave your sins, and you accepted him into your heart.
That "until we acquire possession of it" is up to us. Salvation is a free gift based on the sacrifice of his life that Jesus paid for our sins. But, he gives us the free choice to turn from our wickednesss and turn to him and receive forgiveness, healing, and wholeness. So, is that worth it to you? Give you your pet sin for the reality of eternal communion and relationship with the Father. Your choice? The offer stands today...
Know that, you, even before choosing him, are the praise of his glory. That as you go about your day, in every circumstance, he sings love songs over you and praises your creation. He knit you together in love and patiently awaits for your heart to turn to him and come to him. His arms are wide open. Receive him today, and be free from your suffering.
"We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians(insert your name here); our heart is wide open. You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted in your own affections. In return, (I speak to you as children) widen your hearts also." 2 Corinthians 6:11
"who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory."
Ephesians 1:14
When Jesus went to the cross, he paid for your sins and bought you back from the destruction of the world and all that is in it. Because of it, you now share in his inheritance of all of the spiritual blessings and, yes, heaven itself. The guarantee, that shows the world that you are indeed God's son, daughter, prince, or princess, is the Holy Spirit. And, that was given freely to you the moment Jesus breathed his last, forgave your sins, and you accepted him into your heart.
That "until we acquire possession of it" is up to us. Salvation is a free gift based on the sacrifice of his life that Jesus paid for our sins. But, he gives us the free choice to turn from our wickednesss and turn to him and receive forgiveness, healing, and wholeness. So, is that worth it to you? Give you your pet sin for the reality of eternal communion and relationship with the Father. Your choice? The offer stands today...
Know that, you, even before choosing him, are the praise of his glory. That as you go about your day, in every circumstance, he sings love songs over you and praises your creation. He knit you together in love and patiently awaits for your heart to turn to him and come to him. His arms are wide open. Receive him today, and be free from your suffering.
"We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians(insert your name here); our heart is wide open. You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted in your own affections. In return, (I speak to you as children) widen your hearts also." 2 Corinthians 6:11
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Day Twenty-Seven: God the Healer: Seal it Up!
Day Twenty-Seven
"and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit" Ephesians 1:13b
In the interest of time, which I never seem to have enough of, I want to stress the idea that once we believed in God, we were given the Holy Spirit as a promise of our relationship and salvation. We are sealed and protected by this same spirit, which enables the Father and Jesus to touch our hearts with his hands of grace. In this touch, we are healed of our fears, anxieties, stressors, and worries; they are washed away by the cleansing, freeing blood of the lamb.
So, today as you go your way, take a moment to reflect on the fact that we are sealed in the Holy Spirit in God's hands, that no matter how far we, seemingly, run from God, he's got a hold of us, and won't let us escape too far. Not that he is a pushy, overbearing father, but a loving father who wants shield us from the ways of the world.
Bask in the warmth of the healing Holy Spirit and let your father's eyes of love and touch of grace bring healing to your weary soul.
"But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere." 2 Cor. 2:14
"and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit" Ephesians 1:13b
In the interest of time, which I never seem to have enough of, I want to stress the idea that once we believed in God, we were given the Holy Spirit as a promise of our relationship and salvation. We are sealed and protected by this same spirit, which enables the Father and Jesus to touch our hearts with his hands of grace. In this touch, we are healed of our fears, anxieties, stressors, and worries; they are washed away by the cleansing, freeing blood of the lamb.
So, today as you go your way, take a moment to reflect on the fact that we are sealed in the Holy Spirit in God's hands, that no matter how far we, seemingly, run from God, he's got a hold of us, and won't let us escape too far. Not that he is a pushy, overbearing father, but a loving father who wants shield us from the ways of the world.
Bask in the warmth of the healing Holy Spirit and let your father's eyes of love and touch of grace bring healing to your weary soul.
"But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere." 2 Cor. 2:14
Monday, December 26, 2011
Day Twenty-Six: God The Healer: The Word of Truth
Day Twenty-Six
"In Him you also when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation..."Ephesians 1:13
Without being too scripture-based, I just loosely remind you, dear readers, that knowledge of salvation comes by hearing the word of God, and that as John writes that word of God is Jesus. So, therefore we can understand the word of truth as Jesus and see that he is our salvation.
What then, is the gospel? A paraphrase word for the gospel is "good news" and truly the very fact that we are saved from sin and destruction based on Christ's sacrificing act is good news. And, as we just celebrated his coming in the form of the deepest form of humility, amongst the filth and ugliness of the world, he loved us enough to come. And, with him, he brought the only way out of this decrepit and falling apart world, into one where peace and security and love reigns supreme. That is the good news, or gospel, of salvation brought to you by the only one capable of bring it, Jesus the Christ.
So, I pray today, in the aftermath of the Christmas craziness and overwhelming power of joy, may you remember the giver of true life and that no matter what your security has been bought, with a heavy price, but willingly given, as a gift to you today, and always. So, I implore you, open your heart to him and begin the only journey that will fulfill and complete your heart, you sons and daughters, princes, and princesses.
In love, I pray that these words will not only bring healing but will be received without sounding forceful or preachy, but with gentleness and without reproach. You know all of you, in one way or another, that I am not perfect and make mistakes, but I can assure you that I know the one who is perfect and I pray, that however it comes, you may find your way to him today, and true healing of your heart and mind will come.
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it."
John 1:1-5
"In Him you also when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation..."Ephesians 1:13
Without being too scripture-based, I just loosely remind you, dear readers, that knowledge of salvation comes by hearing the word of God, and that as John writes that word of God is Jesus. So, therefore we can understand the word of truth as Jesus and see that he is our salvation.
What then, is the gospel? A paraphrase word for the gospel is "good news" and truly the very fact that we are saved from sin and destruction based on Christ's sacrificing act is good news. And, as we just celebrated his coming in the form of the deepest form of humility, amongst the filth and ugliness of the world, he loved us enough to come. And, with him, he brought the only way out of this decrepit and falling apart world, into one where peace and security and love reigns supreme. That is the good news, or gospel, of salvation brought to you by the only one capable of bring it, Jesus the Christ.
So, I pray today, in the aftermath of the Christmas craziness and overwhelming power of joy, may you remember the giver of true life and that no matter what your security has been bought, with a heavy price, but willingly given, as a gift to you today, and always. So, I implore you, open your heart to him and begin the only journey that will fulfill and complete your heart, you sons and daughters, princes, and princesses.
In love, I pray that these words will not only bring healing but will be received without sounding forceful or preachy, but with gentleness and without reproach. You know all of you, in one way or another, that I am not perfect and make mistakes, but I can assure you that I know the one who is perfect and I pray, that however it comes, you may find your way to him today, and true healing of your heart and mind will come.
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life, and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it."
John 1:1-5
Be anxious for nothing, Jennifer Baker!
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, Rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."
Phil. 4:4-7
So, Jen, as we just opened our hearts once again to be friends and you gave me the privilege to know what is going on in your life, your worries and concerns; that is my Christmas verse for you. I pray that it will fill your heart with comfort and little bits of it will cross your mind and heart today and the days that come. Whenever the worries and struggles come up, I beseech you, from my own experience, send up a prayer to God the Father asking for direction for your finances, for all of your life, for your little ones, and entrust that he will work and he will provide.
"take every thought captive to obey Christ"...This I also give to you, that when the worries come, you may just offer that up to Christ to be taken away from your heart, that as it says in the first scripture the peace of God, which surpasses understanding, would flood your heart with protection and joy.
Truly, I pray that the joy of the Lord, despite your circumstances, would be your joy this year to come. That if times do get harder, there would be a supernatural covering over your household, and as things seem to get low and worries come up, as you, and I, pray that the Lord will increase your faith, that the God who provides, will provide for you abundantly.
For it was even Jesus that said, and I pray this directly enters your heart:
"Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, "What shall we eat?" or "What shall we wear?" For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."
Matthew 6:25-34
And, without being too much of a pushy Christian, I don't know where you are at in the spiritually minded, but I just offer advice that, if you don't have one, that you find a church this year. There, not only will you find a place that will remind you and your little ones of the Love of Christ, but the peace will enter your hearts and guard you from anxiety, plus there will be a church family that, God willing, will be ready and able to help you in times of need. I recommend Hope Chapel Healdsburg, but any of the Hope Chapels will do, because they tend to be open to all types of people and very family friendly. And, mostly show the love of God through their actions and not just their lips.
Also, I will check and make sure I have your address, I think I do. If I do, I will try to regularly send you a little book that you can read to center your heart on the one who loves, provides, cares beyond your wildest imagination. The one who is your true love, bridegroom, and father to you and your children.
My heart breaks for you, as your gentleness has always been one to touch my heart and be a comfort to me, and so I just with an open heart hope pray that you will find the peace of God waiting for you without outstretched arms.
"If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:31-32
Be free in his grace and mercy, his love that he sent and gives to you freeily.
Rest in his promises for provision, protection, and everlasting love.
He is holding you close; don't run from him.
In love, I offer myself to you as a prayer warrior and friend, and remember despite the difference between us,
we are forever linked by the spirit of God.
Phil. 4:4-7
So, Jen, as we just opened our hearts once again to be friends and you gave me the privilege to know what is going on in your life, your worries and concerns; that is my Christmas verse for you. I pray that it will fill your heart with comfort and little bits of it will cross your mind and heart today and the days that come. Whenever the worries and struggles come up, I beseech you, from my own experience, send up a prayer to God the Father asking for direction for your finances, for all of your life, for your little ones, and entrust that he will work and he will provide.
"take every thought captive to obey Christ"...This I also give to you, that when the worries come, you may just offer that up to Christ to be taken away from your heart, that as it says in the first scripture the peace of God, which surpasses understanding, would flood your heart with protection and joy.
Truly, I pray that the joy of the Lord, despite your circumstances, would be your joy this year to come. That if times do get harder, there would be a supernatural covering over your household, and as things seem to get low and worries come up, as you, and I, pray that the Lord will increase your faith, that the God who provides, will provide for you abundantly.
For it was even Jesus that said, and I pray this directly enters your heart:
"Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, "What shall we eat?" or "What shall we wear?" For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."
Matthew 6:25-34
And, without being too much of a pushy Christian, I don't know where you are at in the spiritually minded, but I just offer advice that, if you don't have one, that you find a church this year. There, not only will you find a place that will remind you and your little ones of the Love of Christ, but the peace will enter your hearts and guard you from anxiety, plus there will be a church family that, God willing, will be ready and able to help you in times of need. I recommend Hope Chapel Healdsburg, but any of the Hope Chapels will do, because they tend to be open to all types of people and very family friendly. And, mostly show the love of God through their actions and not just their lips.
Also, I will check and make sure I have your address, I think I do. If I do, I will try to regularly send you a little book that you can read to center your heart on the one who loves, provides, cares beyond your wildest imagination. The one who is your true love, bridegroom, and father to you and your children.
My heart breaks for you, as your gentleness has always been one to touch my heart and be a comfort to me, and so I just with an open heart hope pray that you will find the peace of God waiting for you without outstretched arms.
"If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:31-32
Be free in his grace and mercy, his love that he sent and gives to you freeily.
Rest in his promises for provision, protection, and everlasting love.
He is holding you close; don't run from him.
In love, I offer myself to you as a prayer warrior and friend, and remember despite the difference between us,
we are forever linked by the spirit of God.
Sunday, December 25, 2011
My first Christmas
In the midst of the Christmas spirit of craziness and commercialized Santas and unwrapped joy, I decided to sway from my usual daily recovery devotional of ephesians and turn instead to the famous birth that supposedly happened on this day.
First of all, I woke up this morning not sure what to expect, sure there were well-wishes on Facebook, and a kitten to feed, and a warm welcome from a bed bound husband...but the Christmas spirit had not entered me. And, I missed the traditions of my family, whatever it is of late, and felt saddened that I was so far away. (Did our car have to go out this time of year? Did my husband's back have to go out? Oh well, as I read to my husband, "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." (Hey, with all my husband and I have been through, and with our increased need for more of this thing called "faith", maybe that's our scripture gift sent straight from our loving father this Christmas! I think so!)
So, with an intent to have some sort of Christmas cheer, I marched down town in the cold to find a coffee shop or a restaurant with take out food, but ended up screaming at the barista who was closing who shop, Okay, Christmas spirit not there yet. So, here I go...I pray forgiveness for my wrongful spirit on Christmas and pray healing for that young barista that the Jesus' love will enter him, and all will be forgiven between us. Well, there you go. After that debacle, (and hey, maybe I needed that release), I entered Safeway, yes, Safeway, the crappy food store I swore I never thought I'd enter, and found some food worthy of putting some money too...and to redeem myself, or find karma, if you believe in that, I bought the checkout guy at the counter a Starbucks card for 15 dollars, so there we go, maybe after picking up all the goodies for Christmas the spirit enters. So, all is not lost.
Then, I came home, made some coffee, hot chocolate, eggnog combination, crawled down the stairs with my husband (well, we are one flesh, so better do everything side by side) and pulled at his wrists, I read to him a little of the Christmas story. Yes, the star, the manger, Bethelem, the Shepherds, the wiseman and decorated the house the best we could with Christmas decorations....even our wedding tree that our friend made for us, yeah, that's our Christmas tree...with the manger scenes near by and two lovely Christmas cards. But, as I was reading the Christmas story, there is always one line that stands out in my heart:
"But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart." Luke 2:19
Without much forethought, I read over that. But, its been trespassing through the road between heart and mind this day of all days, so I write here: Yes, today we set aside this time to remember the majesty of his humble beginnings, God became a baby. But, how often do we, like Mary, ponder Jesus in our hearts? As I wrote on the note on Facebook from an exerpt from a Max Lucado book:
He looks like nothing but a king. His face is prunish and red. His cry, though strong and healthy, is still the helpless and piercing cry of a baby. And he is absolutely dependent upon Mary for his well-being.
Majesty in the midst of the mundane. Holiness in the filth of sheep manure and sweat. Divinity entering into the world on the floor of a stable, through the womb of a teenager and in the presence of a carpenter.
My hope and prayer for my heart this Christmas season would be that the wonder of Christ's humility and revelation of his coming to be my Savior would be just that in the mundane and filth of the world, be it doing dishes, cleaning out litter boxes, taking out the garbage, that that treasure of Jesus would remain in my heart, amidst the daily grind and daily activity.
So, in that spirit of humility of my Lord's coming, I dedicate my heart and pray for that humility and worship in the simplest of ways, I leave you with Mary's song of worship:
"My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant.
For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
for he who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation.
He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts;
he has brought down the mighty from their thrones
and exalted those of humble estate;
he has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel, (put your name there)
in remembrance of his mercy,
as he spoke to our fathers
to Abraham and to his offspring forever."
So, now (if you are still reading and if you have read earlier posts), this morning I missed the traditional Christmases of home, but, you know, not only have I been ultimately blessed this season and Christmas, but the love of God has truly worked this year. He has brought me my true love and faithful companion, my wonderful husband (Ladies, it took 8 years of prayer, so don't give up!), and with it a darling kitten named Z-kitty (Alon-sy!), wonderful family and friends from far away and close by who have provided from their hearts openly (and on behalf of both of us, we thank you), and, most importantly, I've got Jesus...who in the midst of the storms of life, poverty being one of them, he remembers me and promises to stay by my side, our side, both mine and my husband...and of course, yours. So, in all your blessings, treasure Jesus.
First of all, I woke up this morning not sure what to expect, sure there were well-wishes on Facebook, and a kitten to feed, and a warm welcome from a bed bound husband...but the Christmas spirit had not entered me. And, I missed the traditions of my family, whatever it is of late, and felt saddened that I was so far away. (Did our car have to go out this time of year? Did my husband's back have to go out? Oh well, as I read to my husband, "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." (Hey, with all my husband and I have been through, and with our increased need for more of this thing called "faith", maybe that's our scripture gift sent straight from our loving father this Christmas! I think so!)
So, with an intent to have some sort of Christmas cheer, I marched down town in the cold to find a coffee shop or a restaurant with take out food, but ended up screaming at the barista who was closing who shop, Okay, Christmas spirit not there yet. So, here I go...I pray forgiveness for my wrongful spirit on Christmas and pray healing for that young barista that the Jesus' love will enter him, and all will be forgiven between us. Well, there you go. After that debacle, (and hey, maybe I needed that release), I entered Safeway, yes, Safeway, the crappy food store I swore I never thought I'd enter, and found some food worthy of putting some money too...and to redeem myself, or find karma, if you believe in that, I bought the checkout guy at the counter a Starbucks card for 15 dollars, so there we go, maybe after picking up all the goodies for Christmas the spirit enters. So, all is not lost.
Then, I came home, made some coffee, hot chocolate, eggnog combination, crawled down the stairs with my husband (well, we are one flesh, so better do everything side by side) and pulled at his wrists, I read to him a little of the Christmas story. Yes, the star, the manger, Bethelem, the Shepherds, the wiseman and decorated the house the best we could with Christmas decorations....even our wedding tree that our friend made for us, yeah, that's our Christmas tree...with the manger scenes near by and two lovely Christmas cards. But, as I was reading the Christmas story, there is always one line that stands out in my heart:
"But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart." Luke 2:19
Without much forethought, I read over that. But, its been trespassing through the road between heart and mind this day of all days, so I write here: Yes, today we set aside this time to remember the majesty of his humble beginnings, God became a baby. But, how often do we, like Mary, ponder Jesus in our hearts? As I wrote on the note on Facebook from an exerpt from a Max Lucado book:
He looks like nothing but a king. His face is prunish and red. His cry, though strong and healthy, is still the helpless and piercing cry of a baby. And he is absolutely dependent upon Mary for his well-being.
Majesty in the midst of the mundane. Holiness in the filth of sheep manure and sweat. Divinity entering into the world on the floor of a stable, through the womb of a teenager and in the presence of a carpenter.
My hope and prayer for my heart this Christmas season would be that the wonder of Christ's humility and revelation of his coming to be my Savior would be just that in the mundane and filth of the world, be it doing dishes, cleaning out litter boxes, taking out the garbage, that that treasure of Jesus would remain in my heart, amidst the daily grind and daily activity.
So, in that spirit of humility of my Lord's coming, I dedicate my heart and pray for that humility and worship in the simplest of ways, I leave you with Mary's song of worship:
"My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant.
For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
for he who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation.
He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts;
he has brought down the mighty from their thrones
and exalted those of humble estate;
he has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel, (put your name there)
in remembrance of his mercy,
as he spoke to our fathers
to Abraham and to his offspring forever."
So, now (if you are still reading and if you have read earlier posts), this morning I missed the traditional Christmases of home, but, you know, not only have I been ultimately blessed this season and Christmas, but the love of God has truly worked this year. He has brought me my true love and faithful companion, my wonderful husband (Ladies, it took 8 years of prayer, so don't give up!), and with it a darling kitten named Z-kitty (Alon-sy!), wonderful family and friends from far away and close by who have provided from their hearts openly (and on behalf of both of us, we thank you), and, most importantly, I've got Jesus...who in the midst of the storms of life, poverty being one of them, he remembers me and promises to stay by my side, our side, both mine and my husband...and of course, yours. So, in all your blessings, treasure Jesus.
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Day Twenty-Four: God The Healer: His First Hope
Day Twenty-Four
"So that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory." Ephesians 1: 12
Jesus Christ brings hope when we trust him with our hearts, our minds, our souls, our whole lives. No matter where you look, how far you may reach to get away from him, you will always find your living hope, Jesus the Christ, waiting for you.
He was brought to this earth over 2000 years ago that you may have hope, that in the dark times today and in the months, years, days to come, you may rest in the hope of heaven, Christ became a baby, lived his life sinless but fully aware of the trials and tribulations of the human flesh, and died without remorse so that you can rest in that hope.
So, whatever this Christmas season brings, whether it brings new beginnings, weddings, babies, futures bright, or if it brings sadness and misfortune, may your hearts turn to the little baby in the manger, who loved you so much to humble himself to die for you, so that you may have hope, why, so that you may be his praise and glory. As a father finds something to praise about in a newborn, may you understand that the God the father sings love songs of praise and adoration over you, even when you mess up. So, trust him, lean on him, and rest in the hope he has for you this Christmas.
He is your Emmanuel, your constant companion, and he will be there for you no matter what the circumstance, even if you feel you have turned your back on him. May this be the year you return to him.
Joy and Peace, I give to you, may the eternal hope of Christ be yours this Christmas and abide with you in the year to come.
"For whoever finds me finds life, and obtains favor from the Lord, but he who fails to find me injures himself; all who hate me love death." Proverbs 8:35-36
"So that we who were the first to hope in Christ might be to the praise of his glory." Ephesians 1: 12
Jesus Christ brings hope when we trust him with our hearts, our minds, our souls, our whole lives. No matter where you look, how far you may reach to get away from him, you will always find your living hope, Jesus the Christ, waiting for you.
He was brought to this earth over 2000 years ago that you may have hope, that in the dark times today and in the months, years, days to come, you may rest in the hope of heaven, Christ became a baby, lived his life sinless but fully aware of the trials and tribulations of the human flesh, and died without remorse so that you can rest in that hope.
So, whatever this Christmas season brings, whether it brings new beginnings, weddings, babies, futures bright, or if it brings sadness and misfortune, may your hearts turn to the little baby in the manger, who loved you so much to humble himself to die for you, so that you may have hope, why, so that you may be his praise and glory. As a father finds something to praise about in a newborn, may you understand that the God the father sings love songs of praise and adoration over you, even when you mess up. So, trust him, lean on him, and rest in the hope he has for you this Christmas.
He is your Emmanuel, your constant companion, and he will be there for you no matter what the circumstance, even if you feel you have turned your back on him. May this be the year you return to him.
Joy and Peace, I give to you, may the eternal hope of Christ be yours this Christmas and abide with you in the year to come.
"For whoever finds me finds life, and obtains favor from the Lord, but he who fails to find me injures himself; all who hate me love death." Proverbs 8:35-36
Friday, December 23, 2011
Day Twenty-Three: God the Healer: Working All Things
Day Twenty-Three
"having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will." Ephesians 1:11
First, I want to offer a prayer for myself and all of you, dear, faithful followers and readers, spirit friends and family, that the crud and junk of your heart would be ripped about by the surgical love of the Father and replaced with the fruits of the spirit, that Christ may look into you as a mirror and see himself reflected back. I pray that however distant you may have turned yourself these past few years, that this Christmas and year to come, will be a time of refining and bringing back into the arms of the one who loves you beyond all comprehension. There is no shame, no guilt, or condemnation here. Only love, grace, and mercy and I pray that would be your true blessing and gift this Christmas. That is what I impart to you, through Christ's heart into mine then poured into yours, that his love, grace, and mercy would begin to fill you, transform you, and make you more like him.
So, the word "predestination" stands out here, without going into it fully, I just see it as the very fact that God called us before we were conscious of him, and that we all have our journeys and paths that lead us eventually to Him. I pray that you will rest in the promise that you throughout all your battles, searchings, and despairings that he awaits on the other side ready to begin anew relationship of love and peace.
Furthermore, he called you according to his purpose, and yet also, whatever you have been going through is part of his purpose for your life. You can know that this year to come, whatever come what may, that it is all planned for his purpose, and increasingly for your own good. He plans it out according to his own counsel, meaning he thought specifically of who you were to be, before your inception, before the dawn of time, and planned out every circumstance you would go through....why, so that in your trials, troubles, weaknesses, and lowliness, you would turn to him for your peace, sanctification, and salvation. That is his divine purpose, my friend, to have divine relationship with you.
Rest in that promise of his purpose, however long it takes you to get there, he will be waiting. He planned your arrival before you even existed and he will wait, showing you his mercy and grace along the way, until you are ready to come to him. Yes, he is the ultimate gentleman.
Seek him this year, I pray, with all diligence and openness of heart.
"Ask and it will be given to you, seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, adn the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened." Matthew 7:7-8
"having been predestined according to the purpose of him who works all things according to the counsel of his will." Ephesians 1:11
First, I want to offer a prayer for myself and all of you, dear, faithful followers and readers, spirit friends and family, that the crud and junk of your heart would be ripped about by the surgical love of the Father and replaced with the fruits of the spirit, that Christ may look into you as a mirror and see himself reflected back. I pray that however distant you may have turned yourself these past few years, that this Christmas and year to come, will be a time of refining and bringing back into the arms of the one who loves you beyond all comprehension. There is no shame, no guilt, or condemnation here. Only love, grace, and mercy and I pray that would be your true blessing and gift this Christmas. That is what I impart to you, through Christ's heart into mine then poured into yours, that his love, grace, and mercy would begin to fill you, transform you, and make you more like him.
So, the word "predestination" stands out here, without going into it fully, I just see it as the very fact that God called us before we were conscious of him, and that we all have our journeys and paths that lead us eventually to Him. I pray that you will rest in the promise that you throughout all your battles, searchings, and despairings that he awaits on the other side ready to begin anew relationship of love and peace.
Furthermore, he called you according to his purpose, and yet also, whatever you have been going through is part of his purpose for your life. You can know that this year to come, whatever come what may, that it is all planned for his purpose, and increasingly for your own good. He plans it out according to his own counsel, meaning he thought specifically of who you were to be, before your inception, before the dawn of time, and planned out every circumstance you would go through....why, so that in your trials, troubles, weaknesses, and lowliness, you would turn to him for your peace, sanctification, and salvation. That is his divine purpose, my friend, to have divine relationship with you.
Rest in that promise of his purpose, however long it takes you to get there, he will be waiting. He planned your arrival before you even existed and he will wait, showing you his mercy and grace along the way, until you are ready to come to him. Yes, he is the ultimate gentleman.
Seek him this year, I pray, with all diligence and openness of heart.
"Ask and it will be given to you, seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, adn the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened." Matthew 7:7-8
Thursday, December 22, 2011
DayTwenty-Day Twenty-Two
Day Twenty-Day Twenty-Two
"In him we have obtained an inheritance"--Ephesians 1:11
Yes, I must admit I may seem a little lax on my daily writing, and yes what it has it been three days have passed and so much has happened. Mainly a lot of answers to prayers for finances, my husband rededicating his life to the Lord, and family visits, and much love from friends and family faraway. And with this love and blessings, I must remember to give thanks to the God our Father for supplying all our need. And, yes, my husband and I can say, that as we both pray for our faith to increase (as we both are now), that little advances of his provisions seem to come our way.
But,truly the promises come from heaven and what, as always, when I am given an blessing or gift from a friend or family member, yes, I should not only thank them but thank God as well, but what I should, and you should too, always be thankful for is the inheritance that was given to us the moment we were conceived into God's family. We are going to heaven, to start out with, we have our final resting place, not just resting place, but place of eternal rest, peace, and joy secured for us. We no longer have to worry about what comes next, for if you think about it, this world has enough of that. So, strike your eternal destination worries out of your head, unless of course, you aren't right with God. (If that's the case, say a little prayer to Jesus right now, no pressure, just a suggestion!) But, also we got Jesus. Today, tomorrow, the next day. We get to be in fellowship with him every day of our lives, because of our once and for all commitment to him. For an extreme blessing, He is with us through every single thing we go through, and will stay there when all else abandons.
So, rest in God's promise of his inheritance. You are rich in your relationship with God, and oh so many gifts, he has for this Christmas and this year.
If you don't have a church, I encourage you to find one this year, for Christmas Eve service and for the rest of the year, but ultimately know that the path to God lies in your hands, whether you decide to turn toward him and away from the darkness, or run away into the darkness that, yes, is fast approaching.
And, then be blessed with the inheritance of a holy, eternal relationship that gives out so much, in fact, has even given you the gift of life.
Merry Christmas, rest in His love for you tonight and the days to come.
"But now in Christ Jesus you who were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ."
Ephesians 2:13
"In him we have obtained an inheritance"--Ephesians 1:11
Yes, I must admit I may seem a little lax on my daily writing, and yes what it has it been three days have passed and so much has happened. Mainly a lot of answers to prayers for finances, my husband rededicating his life to the Lord, and family visits, and much love from friends and family faraway. And with this love and blessings, I must remember to give thanks to the God our Father for supplying all our need. And, yes, my husband and I can say, that as we both pray for our faith to increase (as we both are now), that little advances of his provisions seem to come our way.
But,truly the promises come from heaven and what, as always, when I am given an blessing or gift from a friend or family member, yes, I should not only thank them but thank God as well, but what I should, and you should too, always be thankful for is the inheritance that was given to us the moment we were conceived into God's family. We are going to heaven, to start out with, we have our final resting place, not just resting place, but place of eternal rest, peace, and joy secured for us. We no longer have to worry about what comes next, for if you think about it, this world has enough of that. So, strike your eternal destination worries out of your head, unless of course, you aren't right with God. (If that's the case, say a little prayer to Jesus right now, no pressure, just a suggestion!) But, also we got Jesus. Today, tomorrow, the next day. We get to be in fellowship with him every day of our lives, because of our once and for all commitment to him. For an extreme blessing, He is with us through every single thing we go through, and will stay there when all else abandons.
So, rest in God's promise of his inheritance. You are rich in your relationship with God, and oh so many gifts, he has for this Christmas and this year.
If you don't have a church, I encourage you to find one this year, for Christmas Eve service and for the rest of the year, but ultimately know that the path to God lies in your hands, whether you decide to turn toward him and away from the darkness, or run away into the darkness that, yes, is fast approaching.
And, then be blessed with the inheritance of a holy, eternal relationship that gives out so much, in fact, has even given you the gift of life.
Merry Christmas, rest in His love for you tonight and the days to come.
"But now in Christ Jesus you who were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ."
Ephesians 2:13
Monday, December 19, 2011
The Heart of Ashland: or why I love Ashland
"for we walk by faith, not by sight"
This scripture stands out to me this month because of my weakness to follow it this month. It was a difficult month on all accounts this month. As I have been writing, jobs for me seem to be about ready to open only to have the door slammed shut as quickly as it has opened, so yes, we have been low on money. And, then to bring a clincher into our bandwagon (and I won't give details) my husband gets sick with insomnia, dizziness, and just ickiness. And, my dear little almost 7 month old kitten had his balls wacked this month which brought him home with some kind of respiratory illness. So, the stress of taking care of my ailing husband, my sick cat, providing medicine and food for both, while paying bills, gas, and praying for jobs put a strain on my usually *ahem* not quite strong faith. Everyday would I pray that God would increase my faith, strengthen me to face the day, and lead me with his light upon my path. And, might I add that not only did I have the stress of finding a job, but my husband had his credit card comprised and we had to wait on a new one to use his bank account, which left me as the primary source of "income?", plus with the continual heart I had to give this Christmas, and rehearsing for the play....yes, it was a difficult month on all parts. And, might I add, caused a wee bit of tension between the newlyweds.
But, through it all, the town that I have loved since I visited here Spring break 1995 as a 15 year old sophomore in high school came through in a big way. So, many resources to provide food, clothing, bills paid, and presents for family members, ways for my husband and I to not only replace household items but pay for Christmas gifts for ourselves, that I remembered the true magic and beauty of this town, coming together in times of distress for those struggling, regardless of legislation from the top, because of the great spiritual hunger to give and care and reach out. Even, Medford, that dratted town, got into the Christmas season and provided the giving.
Then, when I ran out of gas on my way home from Medford, God provided the friends and loved ones to get me safely to my home in time to care for my ailing husband and get the rest I needed.
So, everyday the prayers went up, for my marriage, my healing, my humility, and most of all, the increasing of my faith. And yet, God once again came through. Yes, this week, on the very same day, I lost my job and our car broke down, but really the job was mostly the cause of stress and the car, well, it seems like that is an answer to prayer as well, in some small way. And, this stress brought on the peace of God, not only for me, but for my husband as well, and the love and passion of our hearts became one and united again. An answer to prayer for my increased faith. Yay, God.
But, one thing I kept thinking as Christmas nears and people were wondering what I wanted this year, and I really can't think of anything. Whatever one chooses to bless me with, will be gratefully appreciated and taken, but truly I couldn't find anything in my heart; this year my true love, the only man I have ever given my heart and soul to freeily, my one true soul mate, came back into my life and became my life long partner and husband, I have an adorable little kitten who makes me smile everyday, and my husband and I have found a home that seems to have become a part of us as a couple, a true home for us to begin our lives together. So, what could I ask for?
Well, reading this morning in my daily devos, I implored of the Lord to do a work in my heart, not a promise as I have been asking him for in the brokenness and stress of life, but for the Lord to do a real work of surgery, to cut away the dross, the sin, and all of that that keeps me from truly seeking and worshipping him for who he is...and what it was, is found in this scripture:
"Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord.
Truly, my heart now realizes that this is not my home, that this skin suit that covers me is only a temporary residing spot, that everything I hold dear in this very dwelling place can be taken away, because what is eternal is more important, my true home. And, I think what the Lord wanted to show me today, was that that is what I should be wanting for Christmas; in one word, heaven. Yes, with the risk of leaving my husband, kitty, church, and friends, heaven is beyond comprehension in majesty and greatness and that should be the true desire of our hearts; to be ever present with the Lord.
So, I pray this Christmas and this year to come, that despite the earthly gifts and blessings this world offers, that my heart would be centered and focused and hungering for my true eternal resting place; at home with the Father and with Christ.
May you go with God today, and rest in his promise of eternal life with him, you sons and daughters, princes, and princesses.
This scripture stands out to me this month because of my weakness to follow it this month. It was a difficult month on all accounts this month. As I have been writing, jobs for me seem to be about ready to open only to have the door slammed shut as quickly as it has opened, so yes, we have been low on money. And, then to bring a clincher into our bandwagon (and I won't give details) my husband gets sick with insomnia, dizziness, and just ickiness. And, my dear little almost 7 month old kitten had his balls wacked this month which brought him home with some kind of respiratory illness. So, the stress of taking care of my ailing husband, my sick cat, providing medicine and food for both, while paying bills, gas, and praying for jobs put a strain on my usually *ahem* not quite strong faith. Everyday would I pray that God would increase my faith, strengthen me to face the day, and lead me with his light upon my path. And, might I add that not only did I have the stress of finding a job, but my husband had his credit card comprised and we had to wait on a new one to use his bank account, which left me as the primary source of "income?", plus with the continual heart I had to give this Christmas, and rehearsing for the play....yes, it was a difficult month on all parts. And, might I add, caused a wee bit of tension between the newlyweds.
But, through it all, the town that I have loved since I visited here Spring break 1995 as a 15 year old sophomore in high school came through in a big way. So, many resources to provide food, clothing, bills paid, and presents for family members, ways for my husband and I to not only replace household items but pay for Christmas gifts for ourselves, that I remembered the true magic and beauty of this town, coming together in times of distress for those struggling, regardless of legislation from the top, because of the great spiritual hunger to give and care and reach out. Even, Medford, that dratted town, got into the Christmas season and provided the giving.
Then, when I ran out of gas on my way home from Medford, God provided the friends and loved ones to get me safely to my home in time to care for my ailing husband and get the rest I needed.
So, everyday the prayers went up, for my marriage, my healing, my humility, and most of all, the increasing of my faith. And yet, God once again came through. Yes, this week, on the very same day, I lost my job and our car broke down, but really the job was mostly the cause of stress and the car, well, it seems like that is an answer to prayer as well, in some small way. And, this stress brought on the peace of God, not only for me, but for my husband as well, and the love and passion of our hearts became one and united again. An answer to prayer for my increased faith. Yay, God.
But, one thing I kept thinking as Christmas nears and people were wondering what I wanted this year, and I really can't think of anything. Whatever one chooses to bless me with, will be gratefully appreciated and taken, but truly I couldn't find anything in my heart; this year my true love, the only man I have ever given my heart and soul to freeily, my one true soul mate, came back into my life and became my life long partner and husband, I have an adorable little kitten who makes me smile everyday, and my husband and I have found a home that seems to have become a part of us as a couple, a true home for us to begin our lives together. So, what could I ask for?
Well, reading this morning in my daily devos, I implored of the Lord to do a work in my heart, not a promise as I have been asking him for in the brokenness and stress of life, but for the Lord to do a real work of surgery, to cut away the dross, the sin, and all of that that keeps me from truly seeking and worshipping him for who he is...and what it was, is found in this scripture:
"Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord.
Truly, my heart now realizes that this is not my home, that this skin suit that covers me is only a temporary residing spot, that everything I hold dear in this very dwelling place can be taken away, because what is eternal is more important, my true home. And, I think what the Lord wanted to show me today, was that that is what I should be wanting for Christmas; in one word, heaven. Yes, with the risk of leaving my husband, kitty, church, and friends, heaven is beyond comprehension in majesty and greatness and that should be the true desire of our hearts; to be ever present with the Lord.
So, I pray this Christmas and this year to come, that despite the earthly gifts and blessings this world offers, that my heart would be centered and focused and hungering for my true eternal resting place; at home with the Father and with Christ.
May you go with God today, and rest in his promise of eternal life with him, you sons and daughters, princes, and princesses.
Day Nineteen: God The Healer: Unity in Christ.
Day Nineteen
"as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things to him, things in heaven and things on earth." Ephesians 1:10
Yesterday, of course, I merely touched on this scripture but I did not get to describe its worth in the grand scheme of our relationship with God, our perfection, and ultimate healing into little versions of Christ. For starters, the plan for the fullness of time is speaking of the time, in my most humble opinion, when the last being comes to know the living God as their redeemer, friend, and Savior. This will bring on God's ultimate purpose for his gift of grace which is complete unity of all individuals in all the universe. Yes, this includes the angels and every human being who has passed to the other side, but also us on the other. God's heart is that his children would find unity and peace; not peace as the world seeks it out but true peace that reaches into the depths of our heart and sends out only love and forgiveness and, yes, grace. And, dear pilgrims, you can find that peace in your hearts today, right now, in this very instance.
So, today as you go your way, take heart in the realization that one day all beings will be unified under God and there will be true and lasting peace, that only comes from God, and that by turning to him in whatever situation you find yourself in this morning, that peace can become part of your every being; your heart, soul, and mind. With the openness of my heart and in all humility, I implore you to give your heart to the Father and to Christ today with the realization that the peace that you seek will be given most graciously to you.
As you turn your heart to him, dear friends, may the love, grace, and peace enter your heart and heal your brokenness.
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
"as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things to him, things in heaven and things on earth." Ephesians 1:10
Yesterday, of course, I merely touched on this scripture but I did not get to describe its worth in the grand scheme of our relationship with God, our perfection, and ultimate healing into little versions of Christ. For starters, the plan for the fullness of time is speaking of the time, in my most humble opinion, when the last being comes to know the living God as their redeemer, friend, and Savior. This will bring on God's ultimate purpose for his gift of grace which is complete unity of all individuals in all the universe. Yes, this includes the angels and every human being who has passed to the other side, but also us on the other. God's heart is that his children would find unity and peace; not peace as the world seeks it out but true peace that reaches into the depths of our heart and sends out only love and forgiveness and, yes, grace. And, dear pilgrims, you can find that peace in your hearts today, right now, in this very instance.
So, today as you go your way, take heart in the realization that one day all beings will be unified under God and there will be true and lasting peace, that only comes from God, and that by turning to him in whatever situation you find yourself in this morning, that peace can become part of your every being; your heart, soul, and mind. With the openness of my heart and in all humility, I implore you to give your heart to the Father and to Christ today with the realization that the peace that you seek will be given most graciously to you.
As you turn your heart to him, dear friends, may the love, grace, and peace enter your heart and heal your brokenness.
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Day Eighteen: God The Healer: Salvation was his purpose!
Day Eighteen
"according to his purpose which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth." Ephesians 1:9-10
Well, for starters, what in the world is God's purpose for my life? We all ask that, in some way or another, at some point in our lives. Well, in my viewpoint and I share it with quite a few, is that our purpose is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever. To put it plainly, to seek his face daily with a pure and truthful heart directs us to purpose. But, what then is God's purpose for our life?
Well, his purpose is to save us from destruction and death. His purpose was to send Christ to die for our sins so that we could spend all eternity in constant communion, worship, and relationship with him. This purpose is his divine gift to us this Christmas; Christ is the human manifestation of that gift to us.
Rest in your eternal position before the Lord, that you were saved because God purposed in his heart to save you. Why? Simply put, because he loves you, always has, always will. As my husband put it, at our darkest hours, when there seems no way out of the terrors that are coming, we can know that the "thread" we are barely hanging onto is not going to let us down, because as my husband and I both believe that thread is God. And, honestly, as we seem to be barely hanging on, he's holding on with full force. So, trust in his saving grace; in your most darkest hour, he won't let you down.
Peace be with you tonight and this week.
"For this light and momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal." 2 Corinthians 3:17-18
"according to his purpose which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth." Ephesians 1:9-10
Well, for starters, what in the world is God's purpose for my life? We all ask that, in some way or another, at some point in our lives. Well, in my viewpoint and I share it with quite a few, is that our purpose is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever. To put it plainly, to seek his face daily with a pure and truthful heart directs us to purpose. But, what then is God's purpose for our life?
Well, his purpose is to save us from destruction and death. His purpose was to send Christ to die for our sins so that we could spend all eternity in constant communion, worship, and relationship with him. This purpose is his divine gift to us this Christmas; Christ is the human manifestation of that gift to us.
Rest in your eternal position before the Lord, that you were saved because God purposed in his heart to save you. Why? Simply put, because he loves you, always has, always will. As my husband put it, at our darkest hours, when there seems no way out of the terrors that are coming, we can know that the "thread" we are barely hanging onto is not going to let us down, because as my husband and I both believe that thread is God. And, honestly, as we seem to be barely hanging on, he's holding on with full force. So, trust in his saving grace; in your most darkest hour, he won't let you down.
Peace be with you tonight and this week.
"For this light and momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal." 2 Corinthians 3:17-18
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Day Seventeen: God The Healer: The Mystery Solved
Day Seventeen
"in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will" Ephesians 1:8b
So, as we learned yesterday that he lavishes his unending grace upon us, he also offers us his eternal and ethereal wisdom and insight to now fully understand the mystery of all the ages; the mystery found in Christ Jesus.
You all know the story, of Adam and Eve, the apple, the serpent, the banishment. But, what I want to implore to you is the mystery that God foreknew of that fall of man before time began, and planned that his precious son would die for us, would sacrifice his own life on our behalf, to have communion and eternal relationship with the Father.
So, this Christmas, remember the babyhood was only the start of Christ's humility, giving us his position and authority as God, to become a man and suffer what we have suffered. And truly, as you suffer, know that every possible affliction, suffering, and pain you are experiencing, have experienced, or have yet to experience, he has willingly put himself through, yet without sin. He knows heartbreak, betrayal, remorse, even physical wounds he comprehends.
So, as you open presents and enjoy time with family and loved ones, remember his suffering on your behalf, and know that he did that so that you would not be alone. Know that he is never far away, just a prayer and a breath away, to reach you with his loving and comforting arms. Be comforted in his understanding of your pain and rest in him.
"But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:16-18
"in all wisdom and insight making known to us the mystery of his will" Ephesians 1:8b
So, as we learned yesterday that he lavishes his unending grace upon us, he also offers us his eternal and ethereal wisdom and insight to now fully understand the mystery of all the ages; the mystery found in Christ Jesus.
You all know the story, of Adam and Eve, the apple, the serpent, the banishment. But, what I want to implore to you is the mystery that God foreknew of that fall of man before time began, and planned that his precious son would die for us, would sacrifice his own life on our behalf, to have communion and eternal relationship with the Father.
So, this Christmas, remember the babyhood was only the start of Christ's humility, giving us his position and authority as God, to become a man and suffer what we have suffered. And truly, as you suffer, know that every possible affliction, suffering, and pain you are experiencing, have experienced, or have yet to experience, he has willingly put himself through, yet without sin. He knows heartbreak, betrayal, remorse, even physical wounds he comprehends.
So, as you open presents and enjoy time with family and loved ones, remember his suffering on your behalf, and know that he did that so that you would not be alone. Know that he is never far away, just a prayer and a breath away, to reach you with his loving and comforting arms. Be comforted in his understanding of your pain and rest in him.
"But when one turns to the Lord, the veil is removed. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:16-18
Monica Saunders: One semester down, a year and half to go!
And so it has flown by, and now you await the final grades, as you toiled through faithfully on your studies throughout these last few months, and especially this last week, I praise you for your diligence, in hopes that that work will be transferred to your love of your creator, to seek that which is beyond, diligence to persevere to know Him beyond your preconceived notions, without bitterness, pain, or regret, but with freedom and love as you run into his arms freeily experiencing the gift of grace he offers to you.
For he truly loves you, and always has...despite your turning from him, or what you thought you did, for you never really left him and he never really left you. Looking back at all the trials of emotion and darkness that you went through, can you now see his hand of faithfulness holding you still, watching over your every move, protecting you from doom or destruction, or endless pain...even the mistakes he allowed you to make, he offers his forgiveness and grace, at your receiving and opening your heart to them. So, I implore you, this Christmas, in this moment, "Make room in your hearts for "him". "He" has wronged no one, he has conquered no one, he has taken advantage of no one."
But, I do not mean this to be a lecture of your spiritual morality, only know that your position now as successful student with a focused future is an answer to my prayer, and your heart and readiness to open to prayer for me is also gratefully received. And know this, as Paul writes, I speak to you of my own self for your heart, "For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ."
This Christmas and vacation I pray not only for physical rest, but rest for your soul, your heart, your mind, and that rest will come from the great physician and author of your faith. Turn to him, Monica, and find the peace you have been seeking. As I know your heart seeks companionship and love on this earth, know that what is reserved for you in heaven and even in this moment "betrothed you to one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ." As a married woman, this is something I have to remember, that my first love, true love is my true bridegroom and savior. And, please, do not be swayed away from his abundant love for you by your conviction of your lack of "virginity", I myself was over and over again a reborn virgin, which once repentance comes, brings freedom and grace as if you never committed the act.
Lastly, I congratulate your effort and remain your faithful friend and prayer warrior that God's grace, love, faithfulness, and mercy will carry you through the times to come, whether smooth or difficult, good times or bad, go forth with God and let his light be your guide.
"Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving."
For he truly loves you, and always has...despite your turning from him, or what you thought you did, for you never really left him and he never really left you. Looking back at all the trials of emotion and darkness that you went through, can you now see his hand of faithfulness holding you still, watching over your every move, protecting you from doom or destruction, or endless pain...even the mistakes he allowed you to make, he offers his forgiveness and grace, at your receiving and opening your heart to them. So, I implore you, this Christmas, in this moment, "Make room in your hearts for "him". "He" has wronged no one, he has conquered no one, he has taken advantage of no one."
But, I do not mean this to be a lecture of your spiritual morality, only know that your position now as successful student with a focused future is an answer to my prayer, and your heart and readiness to open to prayer for me is also gratefully received. And know this, as Paul writes, I speak to you of my own self for your heart, "For though I am absent in body, yet I am with you in spirit, rejoicing to see your good order and the firmness of your faith in Christ."
This Christmas and vacation I pray not only for physical rest, but rest for your soul, your heart, your mind, and that rest will come from the great physician and author of your faith. Turn to him, Monica, and find the peace you have been seeking. As I know your heart seeks companionship and love on this earth, know that what is reserved for you in heaven and even in this moment "betrothed you to one husband, to present you as a pure virgin to Christ." As a married woman, this is something I have to remember, that my first love, true love is my true bridegroom and savior. And, please, do not be swayed away from his abundant love for you by your conviction of your lack of "virginity", I myself was over and over again a reborn virgin, which once repentance comes, brings freedom and grace as if you never committed the act.
Lastly, I congratulate your effort and remain your faithful friend and prayer warrior that God's grace, love, faithfulness, and mercy will carry you through the times to come, whether smooth or difficult, good times or bad, go forth with God and let his light be your guide.
"Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving."
Friday, December 16, 2011
Suzanne Hansen: Happy Birthday, dear friend!
Oh my, what words do I describe the loveliness of your heart, the passion you have for your creator and your God, and the purpose you have in serving him, and not only him, but so many of your loved ones.
I honor you, Suzanne, because of what you have done in my life and am so thankful to have found you. I praise the work that God has done in your life, such as, following your dreams all the way to the top and becoming the nurse you always wanted to be. I am so excited to know that I was the one at the bottom, praying for you in the beginning struggles with anatomy or what have you exams...and look at you now, you made it through.
Why? Not just because of the grace of God who enables you (and that's a big one) but because of the prayers and love you offer to all, and that are offered back to you. You are loved, blessed, prayed for by God and by all. Walk in his grace today, and know you are loved.
Suzanne, when you get a chance pick up P.K. Hallinan's book "Heartprints" because you truly are one to embody the very nature of that book. Not only did you reach out to me and remain patient while I put you and everybody else through the ringer, but the love you showed me was one of God's grace and infinite patience and faithfulness and, yes, joy. It was infectious....and above all, "hope". In God, In me, in yourself.
The book, Heartprints, is about leaving a little part of heaven, or a heart, on someone during your day by blessing them in some way. As you voyaged through the struggles of my life, you left many heartprints of grace, hope, and strength on my heart. The day you left you gave me a ring with the word "hope" written on it. It remained a beacon of my recovery and got me through many a difficult time, remembering not only your love for me, but God's and, to put it in your words when you gave me that ring, "there is always hope"
Now, because of the "heartprints" you have passed on, I have been able to do the same to my beloved Maid of Honor. Before I moved away to Oregon (as I was going to remove the ring anyway), she was going through a difficult time (which I won't go into detail here) so I offered her the ring, told her about you and how you had helped me, and that it had helped me remember truly, even in the darkest of times, God is always with you, will be your strength, and yes, there is always hope.
May that knowledge of the heartprint you impressed upon me and then eventually my maid of honor, be with you today and this year...and know because of who you are in Christ, there are still more you have touched and are touching.
I love you, miss you, and hold you in my heart, until God brings us together again.
A scripture that reminds me of you:
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." 2 Corinthians 1: 3
I honor you, Suzanne, because of what you have done in my life and am so thankful to have found you. I praise the work that God has done in your life, such as, following your dreams all the way to the top and becoming the nurse you always wanted to be. I am so excited to know that I was the one at the bottom, praying for you in the beginning struggles with anatomy or what have you exams...and look at you now, you made it through.
Why? Not just because of the grace of God who enables you (and that's a big one) but because of the prayers and love you offer to all, and that are offered back to you. You are loved, blessed, prayed for by God and by all. Walk in his grace today, and know you are loved.
Suzanne, when you get a chance pick up P.K. Hallinan's book "Heartprints" because you truly are one to embody the very nature of that book. Not only did you reach out to me and remain patient while I put you and everybody else through the ringer, but the love you showed me was one of God's grace and infinite patience and faithfulness and, yes, joy. It was infectious....and above all, "hope". In God, In me, in yourself.
The book, Heartprints, is about leaving a little part of heaven, or a heart, on someone during your day by blessing them in some way. As you voyaged through the struggles of my life, you left many heartprints of grace, hope, and strength on my heart. The day you left you gave me a ring with the word "hope" written on it. It remained a beacon of my recovery and got me through many a difficult time, remembering not only your love for me, but God's and, to put it in your words when you gave me that ring, "there is always hope"
Now, because of the "heartprints" you have passed on, I have been able to do the same to my beloved Maid of Honor. Before I moved away to Oregon (as I was going to remove the ring anyway), she was going through a difficult time (which I won't go into detail here) so I offered her the ring, told her about you and how you had helped me, and that it had helped me remember truly, even in the darkest of times, God is always with you, will be your strength, and yes, there is always hope.
May that knowledge of the heartprint you impressed upon me and then eventually my maid of honor, be with you today and this year...and know because of who you are in Christ, there are still more you have touched and are touching.
I love you, miss you, and hold you in my heart, until God brings us together again.
A scripture that reminds me of you:
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." 2 Corinthians 1: 3
Day Sixteen: God The Healer: You've been "lavished"
Day Sixteen
"which he lavished upon us" Ephesians 1:8
Yesterday we talked about the riches of his grace, today we come to understand that not only does he apply these riches to our lives, but he "lavishes" us with them. The famous Funk & Wagnall's Dictionary defines "lavish" as "to give out profusely" or with to give with superabundance. So, he gives us this rich grace because he enjoys giving us gifts, and because of all the gifts we could possibly need, this is the one that is needed the most.
Think of how many times you mess up, you get angry with your loved one, friends, cat, dog. Or you do something that you think will just make God so angry with you, that makes you turn your very own back on him. Can you think of any times like that? This is clearly a misunderstanding the gospel of grace. Don't let any hard-nose bible thumpers thump you into a corner of your own sin and shame. Be free to experience the grace of God. You are forgiven for your mistakes and loved; loved so much that he offers you his grace. A grace that flows because of Christ's blood; and yes is unending and without relief.
Find freedom and healing in the grace of God lavished upon you this day. I pray that because of this you will be free from the chains of bondage and be able to experience the love of God in all abundance, and truly come to know him and the person he has claimed you to be.
Love him, trust him, walk with him.
"But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me." 1 Corinthians 15:10
"which he lavished upon us" Ephesians 1:8
Yesterday we talked about the riches of his grace, today we come to understand that not only does he apply these riches to our lives, but he "lavishes" us with them. The famous Funk & Wagnall's Dictionary defines "lavish" as "to give out profusely" or with to give with superabundance. So, he gives us this rich grace because he enjoys giving us gifts, and because of all the gifts we could possibly need, this is the one that is needed the most.
Think of how many times you mess up, you get angry with your loved one, friends, cat, dog. Or you do something that you think will just make God so angry with you, that makes you turn your very own back on him. Can you think of any times like that? This is clearly a misunderstanding the gospel of grace. Don't let any hard-nose bible thumpers thump you into a corner of your own sin and shame. Be free to experience the grace of God. You are forgiven for your mistakes and loved; loved so much that he offers you his grace. A grace that flows because of Christ's blood; and yes is unending and without relief.
Find freedom and healing in the grace of God lavished upon you this day. I pray that because of this you will be free from the chains of bondage and be able to experience the love of God in all abundance, and truly come to know him and the person he has claimed you to be.
Love him, trust him, walk with him.
"But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me." 1 Corinthians 15:10
Thursday, December 15, 2011
The Meaning of a Day, and how it all worked out in the end...
So, lately, I have been running around to food banks and such, providing food, presents, and what have you for my little family, and some bills have been paid off because of that.....On top of all that, I have been looking for work, but still focusing on this potential tutoring job I had in Medford, but not holding my breath because that job seemed a little off....not knowing how stressed I was...how tired I would wake up in the morning after sleeping 8+ hours, how it took me a couple hours just staring into space to get ready in the morning.....
Tuesday, I drove out to this far away place called Williams for what seems like a wonderful almost full time but perfect for my stressload job, organic gardening for the purpose of medicinal purposes. It was a great interview, I even shared a little of why I believe in organic and healthy diet because of my history of bipolar...and how that has helped me get off some of the psychotropics...and shared how, for some odd twist of fate, I took these three business classes at Empire in Santa Rosa in an area that they were looking for in their field, yet have hardly set foot or have scant experience with office type situation, a volunteer job here, a few months there...what have you...but I felt a connection with those interviewing me and I left, praying for clear way home although I was low on gas, but with a sense of warmth in my heart...knowing that by friday I would know, but even if I didn't have it, I might surely have this part time job as a tutor...
well, then I ran out of gas, and because God is amazing, he provided the right people to help me get what I needed, with what I had left in my checking account to get two gallons of gas to get home, but was unable to get the money to get gas before leaving for the tutoring the next day, so was late, missed the appointment with the student, but cried hysterically to the school all the way because I was late (maybe that was a mistake) and got there, no one was there, there was no arrangement for me to even tutor, called the child's momma, got a voice mail which I said I would be available to tutor the next day...and went home feeling like all was well....
Woke up this morning, got some money for my husband to get gas, oil, and drove to Medford early to run some errands....when my car broke down, I mean, stalled, I mean, would start, then stop, then start, until it just seemed to collapse...So, through the course of a miracle of Medfordites (who really aren't bad people) they just live in a bad town, I found what seem like God-fearing tow truck drivers and auto repairers and got taken personally to work where upon checking my email I received this from my boss:
Tuesday, I drove out to this far away place called Williams for what seems like a wonderful almost full time but perfect for my stressload job, organic gardening for the purpose of medicinal purposes. It was a great interview, I even shared a little of why I believe in organic and healthy diet because of my history of bipolar...and how that has helped me get off some of the psychotropics...and shared how, for some odd twist of fate, I took these three business classes at Empire in Santa Rosa in an area that they were looking for in their field, yet have hardly set foot or have scant experience with office type situation, a volunteer job here, a few months there...what have you...but I felt a connection with those interviewing me and I left, praying for clear way home although I was low on gas, but with a sense of warmth in my heart...knowing that by friday I would know, but even if I didn't have it, I might surely have this part time job as a tutor...
well, then I ran out of gas, and because God is amazing, he provided the right people to help me get what I needed, with what I had left in my checking account to get two gallons of gas to get home, but was unable to get the money to get gas before leaving for the tutoring the next day, so was late, missed the appointment with the student, but cried hysterically to the school all the way because I was late (maybe that was a mistake) and got there, no one was there, there was no arrangement for me to even tutor, called the child's momma, got a voice mail which I said I would be available to tutor the next day...and went home feeling like all was well....
Woke up this morning, got some money for my husband to get gas, oil, and drove to Medford early to run some errands....when my car broke down, I mean, stalled, I mean, would start, then stop, then start, until it just seemed to collapse...So, through the course of a miracle of Medfordites (who really aren't bad people) they just live in a bad town, I found what seem like God-fearing tow truck drivers and auto repairers and got taken personally to work where upon checking my email I received this from my boss:
Hello Lia
Club Z Tutoring will no longer need your services in Medford. Please cease and desist any contact with students, Medford School District and Howard ES school officials immediately.
Thanks for your effort and good luck.
Neil
Well, this seemed a little bit strange. I wrote back that I had in fact gotten to school on time for today's session, after dealing with my car breaking down, apologized for seeming inconsistent or unprofessional, and pretty much was a swell girl about all of that....seems like most people I talk to are seeing that this guy was the one that goofed up and tried to put all the blame on me...Oh well....maybe tomorrow the job in Williams will open up...and about our car...something will work out...
After losing that job, well, there was a moment of shock, since I really feel I did my best, and even one of the students' parents seems to still like me, but then peace...I wouldn't have the stress to think if I was going to work that week or if this boss of mine was coming through...it was over...so then I walked to the mechanic and got the time to rest and practice my lines and songs for the play and just feel happier and more at peace, less stressed, than I have in a long time.....
And when I think of how God came through this week, with the food boxes, free Christmas presents for my neices, yes, truly, ways for my husband and I to get stuff for ourselves, healing in my life and my marriage, and oh my goodness, free clothes...not just any free clothes...but really cool free clothes and shoes....and isn't that pure joy, girls?
So, what I learned from all this stress is to let the things that matter work themselves out and to let everything else fall by the wayside, to trust as so many people told me this week, "everything is going to work out" because it eventually does, in one way or another.....and God is the great provider and will do miracles if you just faithfully seek and trust him...
So, God, I love you, I trust you, and I place my heart in your hands once again.
Good night all and have a pleasant tomorrow...and a merry Christmas.
Day Fifteen: God the Healer: We are rich!
Day Fifteen
"according to the riches of his grace" Ephesians 1:6
My head hurts, my back aches, I am so tired from running here and there, trying to take care of the bare minimums without a job or money coming into even pay for the gas we need, yet however, this scripture speaks to me of the immense wealth I have in Christ. No matter the problem that ails me, the fears, or the results of past mistakes, I can rest in the grace of God knowing my security is in him.
Yes, I have been broke for as long as I can remember, even after college when my fellow classmates and friends are working high paying jobs, starting their careers, getting new cars, iphones, and paying off debt, I go crazy and end up with a diagnosis of bipolar and a failed teaching career. But, one thing has stuck as I struggled through financially, not alone emotionally, these last few years, is that despite my poverty level, I am truly rich in the grace of God. On Day 7, we talked about all the spiritual blessings God has for us, and truly we have that in more. We have the assurance of our faith, that in hard times, he will come through.
As I have learned that and continue to learn that throughout the changing life's tides, I pray that the immensity of the knowledge of the riches of Christ's grace would be manifested to you today. That whoever you are, Christian or NonChristian, that a little bit of the light of God would shine on you today, knowing that you are loved because of the grace given because of Christ's death.
You are rich, pilgrim, beyond your wildest imaginations. Believe that your God will come through and will manifest a miracle specifically for you.
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Matthew 6:33
"according to the riches of his grace" Ephesians 1:6
My head hurts, my back aches, I am so tired from running here and there, trying to take care of the bare minimums without a job or money coming into even pay for the gas we need, yet however, this scripture speaks to me of the immense wealth I have in Christ. No matter the problem that ails me, the fears, or the results of past mistakes, I can rest in the grace of God knowing my security is in him.
Yes, I have been broke for as long as I can remember, even after college when my fellow classmates and friends are working high paying jobs, starting their careers, getting new cars, iphones, and paying off debt, I go crazy and end up with a diagnosis of bipolar and a failed teaching career. But, one thing has stuck as I struggled through financially, not alone emotionally, these last few years, is that despite my poverty level, I am truly rich in the grace of God. On Day 7, we talked about all the spiritual blessings God has for us, and truly we have that in more. We have the assurance of our faith, that in hard times, he will come through.
As I have learned that and continue to learn that throughout the changing life's tides, I pray that the immensity of the knowledge of the riches of Christ's grace would be manifested to you today. That whoever you are, Christian or NonChristian, that a little bit of the light of God would shine on you today, knowing that you are loved because of the grace given because of Christ's death.
You are rich, pilgrim, beyond your wildest imaginations. Believe that your God will come through and will manifest a miracle specifically for you.
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." Matthew 6:33
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Day Fourteen: God the Healer: We are Forgiven!
Day Fourteen
"the forgiveness of our trespasses" Ephesians 1:7b
Yes, that's right folks, what the blood of Christ boils down to is, yes, we are forgiven for our trespasses...and trespasses is a fancy word for sin, wrongdoing, lies, betrayal, shame, remorse, pain, regrets, and just whatever is standing in your way from true communion and relationship with the Father and with Christ and the Holy Spirit.
This is the true message of the Cross, what all those bible thumpers try to thump you with seemingly unsuccessfully, what the Pastors so faithfully preach, that you are forgiven. You are no longer condemned for your past mistakes or wrongfulness. You can walk in new life and freedom, away from the pain and shame that blocks you from true peace and happiness.
I pray that this true of God's forgiveness would wash over you and bring about a divine understanding of your position in this world without the blood of Christ and that that revelation would bring about a true declaration of a need for God to work in your life. Let the bitterness and the hardness of heart dissipate as you see the glorious love the Father has for you and is extending to you, reaching out his arms of grace, to you personally.
Be healed, be washed, be found complete in his love today.
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9
"the forgiveness of our trespasses" Ephesians 1:7b
Yes, that's right folks, what the blood of Christ boils down to is, yes, we are forgiven for our trespasses...and trespasses is a fancy word for sin, wrongdoing, lies, betrayal, shame, remorse, pain, regrets, and just whatever is standing in your way from true communion and relationship with the Father and with Christ and the Holy Spirit.
This is the true message of the Cross, what all those bible thumpers try to thump you with seemingly unsuccessfully, what the Pastors so faithfully preach, that you are forgiven. You are no longer condemned for your past mistakes or wrongfulness. You can walk in new life and freedom, away from the pain and shame that blocks you from true peace and happiness.
I pray that this true of God's forgiveness would wash over you and bring about a divine understanding of your position in this world without the blood of Christ and that that revelation would bring about a true declaration of a need for God to work in your life. Let the bitterness and the hardness of heart dissipate as you see the glorious love the Father has for you and is extending to you, reaching out his arms of grace, to you personally.
Be healed, be washed, be found complete in his love today.
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Day Thirteen: God The Healer: You've been bought.
Day Thirteen
"In him we have redemption through his blood" Ephesians 1:7
Praise God! You were once lost in your sin, angry, bitter, full of fear, desparate for someone to save you; then God reached down with the power of his might and love and brought redemption, which means he bought you back from the ownership of the devil and the sway of evil that held you captive. He allowed his son's blood to flow freeily, Christ went to the cross willingly, to save and cleanse all the filth, all the pain, all the shame, all the bad habits, and everything that kept you from truly finding peace and wholeness with God.
So, praise God for that redemption, for the blood of Christ that cleanses and restores. As you receive and give gifts this Christmas, reflect on the true nature of the gift that was given, prepared for you before time began, his blood that brought healing and completion of your heart, a healing balm; a heavy price that bought you and made you sons, daughters, princes, princesses.
Be blessed in the true knowledge, whatever your circumstance, his blood covers and heals those fears, anxieties, troubles, and cares, and rest in the knowledge of the eternal promise of communion and relationship with him.
Praise him.
Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord, though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool." Isaiah 1:18
"In him we have redemption through his blood" Ephesians 1:7
Praise God! You were once lost in your sin, angry, bitter, full of fear, desparate for someone to save you; then God reached down with the power of his might and love and brought redemption, which means he bought you back from the ownership of the devil and the sway of evil that held you captive. He allowed his son's blood to flow freeily, Christ went to the cross willingly, to save and cleanse all the filth, all the pain, all the shame, all the bad habits, and everything that kept you from truly finding peace and wholeness with God.
So, praise God for that redemption, for the blood of Christ that cleanses and restores. As you receive and give gifts this Christmas, reflect on the true nature of the gift that was given, prepared for you before time began, his blood that brought healing and completion of your heart, a healing balm; a heavy price that bought you and made you sons, daughters, princes, princesses.
Be blessed in the true knowledge, whatever your circumstance, his blood covers and heals those fears, anxieties, troubles, and cares, and rest in the knowledge of the eternal promise of communion and relationship with him.
Praise him.
Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord, though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool." Isaiah 1:18
Monday, December 12, 2011
Day Twelve: God the Healer: Blessed by His Love
Day Twelve
"with which he has blessed us in the Beloved" Ephesians 1:6
As we talked yesterday about the glorious grace we have in God through Christ, we can also be assured of the blessing we have of God's love for us because we are in his beloved. His beloved is his precious son, Jesus Christ, who paid the ultimate sacrifice so that we may be called the beloved of the Father and have an intimate communion and eternal relationship with him. As I remind you we are sons, daughters, princes, princesses, because of the love the Father has for us to send us his son that he may purge the world of sin, for our behalf.
And, dear ones, it is because he loves us we can understand that when Christ went to his death, we took his place as the beloved of God, attaining his righteousness and his sonship. The love he freeily poured out on his son, he continually pours out on us and we can rest in his promises that the riches of heaven can be freeily disposed upon us.
In your heart of your hearts, try to understand the depth of love the Father has for you, to make you his beloved. It is the greatest relationship that you can attain; the one that can bring the most peace. The one relationship that won't betray or leave you.
Today, I challenge you to praise God for this love and then to ask in faith, as He has called you to pray, that he will pour down those riches from heaven that you may acquire that peace, that security, healing, and strength needed to go forth from this place.
"So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us and eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal." 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
"with which he has blessed us in the Beloved" Ephesians 1:6
As we talked yesterday about the glorious grace we have in God through Christ, we can also be assured of the blessing we have of God's love for us because we are in his beloved. His beloved is his precious son, Jesus Christ, who paid the ultimate sacrifice so that we may be called the beloved of the Father and have an intimate communion and eternal relationship with him. As I remind you we are sons, daughters, princes, princesses, because of the love the Father has for us to send us his son that he may purge the world of sin, for our behalf.
And, dear ones, it is because he loves us we can understand that when Christ went to his death, we took his place as the beloved of God, attaining his righteousness and his sonship. The love he freeily poured out on his son, he continually pours out on us and we can rest in his promises that the riches of heaven can be freeily disposed upon us.
In your heart of your hearts, try to understand the depth of love the Father has for you, to make you his beloved. It is the greatest relationship that you can attain; the one that can bring the most peace. The one relationship that won't betray or leave you.
Today, I challenge you to praise God for this love and then to ask in faith, as He has called you to pray, that he will pour down those riches from heaven that you may acquire that peace, that security, healing, and strength needed to go forth from this place.
"So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us and eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal." 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Day Eleven: God the Healer: He gave his grace so we can be grace givers
Day Eleven
"to the praise of his glorious grace" Ephesians 1:6
God'a grace is abundant; its the reason we are forgiven for all the sins and craziness we have caused by our existing in this world. And, as my friend, Grace always says, this is glorious. Glorious because we no longer have to worry or fret about where we go when we die or feel as if we are alone. Because of this glorious grace, we are never alone; we have entered into communion and relationship with God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. I do pray that you would realize that today.
So, as you begin your daily praise, thank him for the grace that was given to you that day you believed. Then, I challenge you to ask him to help you to do the same; be a grace giver. No matter how someone has wronged you or hurt you, remember that each day is a new day. Each day you can start afresh. Extend the grace God has given to you to the one who has wronged you, and find healing in your own heart, strength and refreshment to start the new day.
"Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you." 2 Corinthians 13:11
"to the praise of his glorious grace" Ephesians 1:6
God'a grace is abundant; its the reason we are forgiven for all the sins and craziness we have caused by our existing in this world. And, as my friend, Grace always says, this is glorious. Glorious because we no longer have to worry or fret about where we go when we die or feel as if we are alone. Because of this glorious grace, we are never alone; we have entered into communion and relationship with God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. I do pray that you would realize that today.
So, as you begin your daily praise, thank him for the grace that was given to you that day you believed. Then, I challenge you to ask him to help you to do the same; be a grace giver. No matter how someone has wronged you or hurt you, remember that each day is a new day. Each day you can start afresh. Extend the grace God has given to you to the one who has wronged you, and find healing in your own heart, strength and refreshment to start the new day.
"Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you." 2 Corinthians 13:11
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Day Ten: God The Healer: His Purpose for your life
Day Ten
"according to the purpose of his will" Ephesians 1:5b
In my morning devotionals, I set in my heart to praise God for who he is, or just because of the need to merely praise him. I praised him for the healing he has already done in my life and in my husband's, and in my friends, and in the worlds. I praised him for the healing and miracles he has yet to do in my life and accepted the gift of faith that though I may not see the outcome I may have the strength to believe that all will work out for good. I pray in your own recovery and healing, you can gain this unwavering faith. It is hard for me to stand in this faith but I can remember that the rock of faith is Christ, and he was and is faithful to complete what he has set out to accomplish, past, present, and future. So, I hope that both you and I can rest in that promise of faith today.
As we learned yesterday that we are adopted into his family by Christ's offering himself on the cross, yes, we are sons and daughters, princes, and princesses. But, all of this was for his purpose before the beginning of time, the creation of the earth, man, before the fall. God purposed that you would be part of his family.
So, no matter how you mess up in your own mind, with your husband, wife, friends, boyfriend, girlfriend, fellow workers, know that you cannot mess up with God. His purpose is to keep you as his own and watch over you until he is ready to bring you home.
And, in time, he will bring you home. He loves you and has a place for you, a position in the realm of the most high.
Rest in his promise of the faith to stand in his purpose that he has made you his own. Treasure each moment you have with him today, whether in prayer, devotional time, or with friends.
"So, whatever you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31
"according to the purpose of his will" Ephesians 1:5b
In my morning devotionals, I set in my heart to praise God for who he is, or just because of the need to merely praise him. I praised him for the healing he has already done in my life and in my husband's, and in my friends, and in the worlds. I praised him for the healing and miracles he has yet to do in my life and accepted the gift of faith that though I may not see the outcome I may have the strength to believe that all will work out for good. I pray in your own recovery and healing, you can gain this unwavering faith. It is hard for me to stand in this faith but I can remember that the rock of faith is Christ, and he was and is faithful to complete what he has set out to accomplish, past, present, and future. So, I hope that both you and I can rest in that promise of faith today.
As we learned yesterday that we are adopted into his family by Christ's offering himself on the cross, yes, we are sons and daughters, princes, and princesses. But, all of this was for his purpose before the beginning of time, the creation of the earth, man, before the fall. God purposed that you would be part of his family.
So, no matter how you mess up in your own mind, with your husband, wife, friends, boyfriend, girlfriend, fellow workers, know that you cannot mess up with God. His purpose is to keep you as his own and watch over you until he is ready to bring you home.
And, in time, he will bring you home. He loves you and has a place for you, a position in the realm of the most high.
Rest in his promise of the faith to stand in his purpose that he has made you his own. Treasure each moment you have with him today, whether in prayer, devotional time, or with friends.
"So, whatever you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31
Friday, December 9, 2011
Day Nine: : God The Healer: No Longer Slaves
Day Nine
he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ"--Ephesians 1:5
After being bolted out of bed by some surprising news by my husband at 530 in the morning, my mind is a little foggy, hence, how long it has taken me to write this entry. But, the thought process behind it has been ruminating in my brain for the day through.
Yes, I hope all of you have been finding one thing to praise God about each morning that you wake on this earth, however simple it may be. And, I too found the time to praise God, that even when I am lost in the fog of my own limited understanding of my circumstances, he sees the end and will be faithful to complete and bring about the glorious victory, here on earth and in heaven.
Here is another promise to soak yourselves in tonight: You have been bought, you are no longer slaves to sin or to your own emotions or crazy mental ramblings. You are a son or daughter, or prince or princess of the most high God. Why? Because, in my most humble opinion, for having Jesus pay for your sins on the cross. Every inch of his body was beaten to cover every inch of your body where you have sinned. The blood that flows can wash you white as snow, and now can give you the eternal life and communion with God that you have been longing for, this brings, my friend, lasting peace and a sense of completion, found not in worldly relationships.
So, tonight or tomorrow morning or whenever you find the time, take a moment to reflect on the wonder of God's love to send his son to personally pay for your sins, yes, he had you in mind that day on the cross. Whatever bad thing you have done that is bringing you shame, pain or remorse, and is keeping you from communion with God, I urge you, lay it down, and be held by the loving arms of the father...for you have been adopted into his family. You are a son, a daughter, a princess, a prince.
Remember that, as you go your way tonight.
"Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible". Ephesians 6:24
he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ"--Ephesians 1:5
After being bolted out of bed by some surprising news by my husband at 530 in the morning, my mind is a little foggy, hence, how long it has taken me to write this entry. But, the thought process behind it has been ruminating in my brain for the day through.
Yes, I hope all of you have been finding one thing to praise God about each morning that you wake on this earth, however simple it may be. And, I too found the time to praise God, that even when I am lost in the fog of my own limited understanding of my circumstances, he sees the end and will be faithful to complete and bring about the glorious victory, here on earth and in heaven.
Here is another promise to soak yourselves in tonight: You have been bought, you are no longer slaves to sin or to your own emotions or crazy mental ramblings. You are a son or daughter, or prince or princess of the most high God. Why? Because, in my most humble opinion, for having Jesus pay for your sins on the cross. Every inch of his body was beaten to cover every inch of your body where you have sinned. The blood that flows can wash you white as snow, and now can give you the eternal life and communion with God that you have been longing for, this brings, my friend, lasting peace and a sense of completion, found not in worldly relationships.
So, tonight or tomorrow morning or whenever you find the time, take a moment to reflect on the wonder of God's love to send his son to personally pay for your sins, yes, he had you in mind that day on the cross. Whatever bad thing you have done that is bringing you shame, pain or remorse, and is keeping you from communion with God, I urge you, lay it down, and be held by the loving arms of the father...for you have been adopted into his family. You are a son, a daughter, a princess, a prince.
Remember that, as you go your way tonight.
"Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible". Ephesians 6:24
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Day Eight: God The Healer: His Love
Day Eight
"In Love..."
Ephesians 1:5
As we seek the Lord every day, morning and night, and turn our faces to him in our distress, my prayer is that we can come to know him and the power of his love for us. As I set aside time to write this entry, I think of my friend, Amie, who walks down the aisle towards holy matrimony, the love she seeks is a righteous love but it is not a love that saves, although as it refers she is "in love". Without trying to discredit her heart, I want to impress upon my heart and you readers that the love the Bible speaks of here is the unconditional, all-surpassing love that God has for each and everyone of us, no matter the incident we find ourselves in.
His love is so far-reaching that it can extend itself into the deepest, darkest place of our souls and penetrate the walls of shame, pain, and hardness and bring new life and light. I pray that in your brokenness, and mine, that that love can manifest itself to you today.
As you go today, say the words "in love" to yourself over and over again, as a reminder of the infinite and unconditional love that God has for you. Let that love wash over you with the healing power of his touch and wash away the grime of your past and your pain.
"that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have the strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God."
Ephesians 3:17-19
"In Love..."
Ephesians 1:5
As we seek the Lord every day, morning and night, and turn our faces to him in our distress, my prayer is that we can come to know him and the power of his love for us. As I set aside time to write this entry, I think of my friend, Amie, who walks down the aisle towards holy matrimony, the love she seeks is a righteous love but it is not a love that saves, although as it refers she is "in love". Without trying to discredit her heart, I want to impress upon my heart and you readers that the love the Bible speaks of here is the unconditional, all-surpassing love that God has for each and everyone of us, no matter the incident we find ourselves in.
His love is so far-reaching that it can extend itself into the deepest, darkest place of our souls and penetrate the walls of shame, pain, and hardness and bring new life and light. I pray that in your brokenness, and mine, that that love can manifest itself to you today.
As you go today, say the words "in love" to yourself over and over again, as a reminder of the infinite and unconditional love that God has for you. Let that love wash over you with the healing power of his touch and wash away the grime of your past and your pain.
"that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may have the strength to comprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled with all the fullness of God."
Ephesians 3:17-19
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Day Seven: God The Healer: Holy and Blameless
Day Seven
"that we should be holy and blameless before him."
Ephesians 1:4
Well, I hope that all of you have been finding one thing to praise God about, something I admit I have been wonton to do. True, I pray for my own heart to be surrendered and for God to put a muzzle over my mouth that I may not speak out of turn, but I seem to always forget to praise him so hold on one moment while I do that...what I just praised God for, was for the fact that not only is he healing me and us, but that in his heavenly perspective, in the future tense, we are healed and we are complete. And yet that he is not done with us, I praise him for that, and that he will complete the work of healing that he has done in us.
I praise God for the message of today, that he calls us to be holy and blameless before him, that that is in fact a spiritual blessing that he imparts to us. Before I set aside time to praise God, I was going to write this long epistle about how we should clean up our acts to become holy and blameless, and for the most part this is the case. We have things we need to lay down, all of us, that get in the way of a real relationship with our Lord, however, I don't think this is what this is saying. I believe this is saying that we are already holy and blameless.
So, yes, if you have been a faithful reader, I have an anger problem and have lashed out in the past towards people to Calvary Chapel Healdsburg, my kids at the elementary school, my old boss, and now towards my husband's friends and even sometimes my husband. Well, if you are a faithful reader, I want you to know that through constant prayer and diligence for healing, I have been able to slowly rid myself of that anger. And, you who read this, no doubt struggle with some vice, whatever the spiritual milieu, and I hope that through your own practices you can lay that down. But, despite our work at ridding ourselves of our negative coping strategies, we can praise God that he already sees us as a complete work and that through our pain, trials, mistakes, he imparts to us the gift of holiness and blamelessness before him.
So, I dedicate this to all of you, no matter what the spiritual practice, willingly offer yourself up to the one who cares, for me the Father of Lights, for he sees you as that perfect and complete creation and he loves you for who you will be. In his eyes, you are holy, blameless, clean, perfect. In the Christian sense, Christ cleans you up by his blood when you come to him, you need not try to do it on your own.
Be blessed and find rest in God's gift for you today, and let that be the healing balm that comforts your heart. No need to journal today, unless you need to, but I simply ask that you share what you learned today about God's gracious gift of personal holiness with someone else today.
In his Son's name, I pray for your continual healing and dedication to him.
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
Ephesians 2:10
"that we should be holy and blameless before him."
Ephesians 1:4
Well, I hope that all of you have been finding one thing to praise God about, something I admit I have been wonton to do. True, I pray for my own heart to be surrendered and for God to put a muzzle over my mouth that I may not speak out of turn, but I seem to always forget to praise him so hold on one moment while I do that...what I just praised God for, was for the fact that not only is he healing me and us, but that in his heavenly perspective, in the future tense, we are healed and we are complete. And yet that he is not done with us, I praise him for that, and that he will complete the work of healing that he has done in us.
I praise God for the message of today, that he calls us to be holy and blameless before him, that that is in fact a spiritual blessing that he imparts to us. Before I set aside time to praise God, I was going to write this long epistle about how we should clean up our acts to become holy and blameless, and for the most part this is the case. We have things we need to lay down, all of us, that get in the way of a real relationship with our Lord, however, I don't think this is what this is saying. I believe this is saying that we are already holy and blameless.
So, yes, if you have been a faithful reader, I have an anger problem and have lashed out in the past towards people to Calvary Chapel Healdsburg, my kids at the elementary school, my old boss, and now towards my husband's friends and even sometimes my husband. Well, if you are a faithful reader, I want you to know that through constant prayer and diligence for healing, I have been able to slowly rid myself of that anger. And, you who read this, no doubt struggle with some vice, whatever the spiritual milieu, and I hope that through your own practices you can lay that down. But, despite our work at ridding ourselves of our negative coping strategies, we can praise God that he already sees us as a complete work and that through our pain, trials, mistakes, he imparts to us the gift of holiness and blamelessness before him.
So, I dedicate this to all of you, no matter what the spiritual practice, willingly offer yourself up to the one who cares, for me the Father of Lights, for he sees you as that perfect and complete creation and he loves you for who you will be. In his eyes, you are holy, blameless, clean, perfect. In the Christian sense, Christ cleans you up by his blood when you come to him, you need not try to do it on your own.
Be blessed and find rest in God's gift for you today, and let that be the healing balm that comforts your heart. No need to journal today, unless you need to, but I simply ask that you share what you learned today about God's gracious gift of personal holiness with someone else today.
In his Son's name, I pray for your continual healing and dedication to him.
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
Ephesians 2:10
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Happy Birthday, Pastor Mark! May the heart of Christ reach you today!
I remember one of the first times I attended ACF, it was really the first time I heard the gospel. I don't remember much of your service but I remember you saying, over and over and over again, Jesus + Nothing = Salvation. You must have counted it on your fingers ten times. It annoyed me then, but it stuck.
A few weeks later, on January 2nd, 2001, after a day of extreme suffering with depression, my boyfriend at the time started sharing the Lord, I remembered your statement (Jesus+Nothing=Salvation) and I also started seeing beautiful images of nature, of things that meant love to me, and I realized that that love that I had been seeking was found only in Jesus Christ. I accepted Christ my Lord and began a wild, intense, love-filled journey with my Savior. I owe part of it to your dedication to serve the gospel.
I hope you remember me as one of the Jesus Seekers that sought under Luke's tutulage, but as Luke was a brother, you were a father. It was true that I was turning to boys and the party world to try to assuage the pain, hide from it, that really tormented my heart, but one thing is sure I always had some difficulty with a slightly emotionally abusive father. Your commitment to pastor the church partially showed me what a true father's love was and not only have you been that person for me, many more have come into my life to be that person, and now I can say, with God's glory and perfect timing, that healing has begun to come into my heart and into my father's, that the bitterness I held towards him has been removed. And, still through all of this, have learned that the Father in heaven is my perfect father.
I left the Party world, moved to Calfiornia away from what I knew, always with the promise that I would come back, and now I have. Yes, I promise to return to visit you, I promise, I haven't forgotton you and am so blessed that your remember me enough to pray for me that day in 2008, and to be my friend on facebook. Of course, I am sinfully attending another church (j/k) that is truly helping me see the Lord in a new way, but with the same truth that I learned in my early days at ACF. You carried me when I could barely crawl and helped me always in every situation, to turn my face back on the Lord and find his will for my life.
Yes, I suffered and went through time of suffering, but it brought me closer to the Lord. I felt your prayers and love during that time of separation a million miles away in California and in my heart. Know this, my heart never left you, or any of you at ACF, or Ashland. I give you my eternal friendship and heart as a sister in Christ and pray blessings over you today and for this year to come.
Let this scripture be one that speaks to you today, I found it in my personal studies this morning:
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious for anything , but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Happy Birthday, Pastor Mark.
"The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
(Philippians)
A few weeks later, on January 2nd, 2001, after a day of extreme suffering with depression, my boyfriend at the time started sharing the Lord, I remembered your statement (Jesus+Nothing=Salvation) and I also started seeing beautiful images of nature, of things that meant love to me, and I realized that that love that I had been seeking was found only in Jesus Christ. I accepted Christ my Lord and began a wild, intense, love-filled journey with my Savior. I owe part of it to your dedication to serve the gospel.
I hope you remember me as one of the Jesus Seekers that sought under Luke's tutulage, but as Luke was a brother, you were a father. It was true that I was turning to boys and the party world to try to assuage the pain, hide from it, that really tormented my heart, but one thing is sure I always had some difficulty with a slightly emotionally abusive father. Your commitment to pastor the church partially showed me what a true father's love was and not only have you been that person for me, many more have come into my life to be that person, and now I can say, with God's glory and perfect timing, that healing has begun to come into my heart and into my father's, that the bitterness I held towards him has been removed. And, still through all of this, have learned that the Father in heaven is my perfect father.
I left the Party world, moved to Calfiornia away from what I knew, always with the promise that I would come back, and now I have. Yes, I promise to return to visit you, I promise, I haven't forgotton you and am so blessed that your remember me enough to pray for me that day in 2008, and to be my friend on facebook. Of course, I am sinfully attending another church (j/k) that is truly helping me see the Lord in a new way, but with the same truth that I learned in my early days at ACF. You carried me when I could barely crawl and helped me always in every situation, to turn my face back on the Lord and find his will for my life.
Yes, I suffered and went through time of suffering, but it brought me closer to the Lord. I felt your prayers and love during that time of separation a million miles away in California and in my heart. Know this, my heart never left you, or any of you at ACF, or Ashland. I give you my eternal friendship and heart as a sister in Christ and pray blessings over you today and for this year to come.
Let this scripture be one that speaks to you today, I found it in my personal studies this morning:
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious for anything , but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Happy Birthday, Pastor Mark.
"The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
(Philippians)
Monday, December 5, 2011
Day Six: God The Healer: He Chose You
Day Six
"even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world"
Ephesians 1:4
Well, yesterday, we talked about praising God and blessing God in our storm and I would encourage us to continue to do that. Actually, to make that a daily thing, no matter what the mood, to praise God and bless God for who he is in our lives, for what he has done, will do, is doing, or for just the greatness of who he is. And then, remember, we get blessed, not because we deserve it, but because He loves us and was going to bless us anyway.
Well, today, I want to show you one way he blesses us with spiritual blessings, in that, He chose you. Yes, no matter what anyone has told you, what religiousity you have fallen into, God loves you and knew you before the creation of the earth, and before the fall of man, He chose you to become his child. He knew that Jesus would have to pay for your sins, and even knew that you would turn your back on him, but He chose you before the creation of the universe.
Why? Because He loves you and desires to have a real and lasting relationship with him. And for that, you can praise him, for that you can rejoice. In that, knowing how much he loves you, I pray you can find healing today.
Be blessed in the knowledge of his love and care for you, that spans before time or creation began, and remember to praise him from the depths of your heart.
In your journal, write what it means to you to know that you were chosen to be God's son or daughter, prince or princess, before the dawn of creation, despite your sin. Then, spend sometime just sitting before the Lord and think about how much he loves you, let that wash over you and carry you through the day.
"Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." Col. 3:2
"even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world"
Ephesians 1:4
Well, yesterday, we talked about praising God and blessing God in our storm and I would encourage us to continue to do that. Actually, to make that a daily thing, no matter what the mood, to praise God and bless God for who he is in our lives, for what he has done, will do, is doing, or for just the greatness of who he is. And then, remember, we get blessed, not because we deserve it, but because He loves us and was going to bless us anyway.
Well, today, I want to show you one way he blesses us with spiritual blessings, in that, He chose you. Yes, no matter what anyone has told you, what religiousity you have fallen into, God loves you and knew you before the creation of the earth, and before the fall of man, He chose you to become his child. He knew that Jesus would have to pay for your sins, and even knew that you would turn your back on him, but He chose you before the creation of the universe.
Why? Because He loves you and desires to have a real and lasting relationship with him. And for that, you can praise him, for that you can rejoice. In that, knowing how much he loves you, I pray you can find healing today.
Be blessed in the knowledge of his love and care for you, that spans before time or creation began, and remember to praise him from the depths of your heart.
In your journal, write what it means to you to know that you were chosen to be God's son or daughter, prince or princess, before the dawn of creation, despite your sin. Then, spend sometime just sitting before the Lord and think about how much he loves you, let that wash over you and carry you through the day.
"Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." Col. 3:2
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Day Five: God the Healer: Blessings From God
Day Five
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places..."
Ephesians 1:3
As you know doubt have started down your journey towards recovery, there will be good days and bad, not so good moments, and some happy. A good suggestion that was always spoken to me during the depths of my despair is to praise God from where we are at, yes, that means in your darkest hour, find something to praise God about. As it says "Blessed be the God and Father..", I mean, not only did he send his son to die for us, but he sent us love, peace, joy, eternal life, and he promises to never leave us. He is our eternal I am. Just knowing he is always with us should be enough of a praise report right there. So, I challenge you this week, in your most hardest moment, praise God for something...even if it is that bird flying by.
And know that when we bless the Lord, the blessing comes full circle. He blesses us when we bless him and yet he doesn't just bless us because we bless him, he blesses us even if we don't bless him. It says "who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing", so I dare you to ask the Lord for a spiritual blessing because there from heaven above (in the heavenly places). Ask the Lord for the peace of God, you know you need it.
Spend a little time in your prayer journal or in the lines below, praising God for whatever comes to mind. Don't think, just let your thoughts flow. Then, ask God for the blessings from heaven, for what you need personally. And he will give it, not because you deserve it, (well, that's another story), but because He loves you and cares for you, he really does, dear one, so ask him for what you need. Be it, strength to get through the day, healing from the pain, what have you...Just be honest.
Remember, he is near you and he hears you. And, he wants to bless you.
"And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." Philippians 1:6
He's not done with you yet; you are a work in progress.
Be patient, dear one, be blessed in his love for you.
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places..."
Ephesians 1:3
As you know doubt have started down your journey towards recovery, there will be good days and bad, not so good moments, and some happy. A good suggestion that was always spoken to me during the depths of my despair is to praise God from where we are at, yes, that means in your darkest hour, find something to praise God about. As it says "Blessed be the God and Father..", I mean, not only did he send his son to die for us, but he sent us love, peace, joy, eternal life, and he promises to never leave us. He is our eternal I am. Just knowing he is always with us should be enough of a praise report right there. So, I challenge you this week, in your most hardest moment, praise God for something...even if it is that bird flying by.
And know that when we bless the Lord, the blessing comes full circle. He blesses us when we bless him and yet he doesn't just bless us because we bless him, he blesses us even if we don't bless him. It says "who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing", so I dare you to ask the Lord for a spiritual blessing because there from heaven above (in the heavenly places). Ask the Lord for the peace of God, you know you need it.
Spend a little time in your prayer journal or in the lines below, praising God for whatever comes to mind. Don't think, just let your thoughts flow. Then, ask God for the blessings from heaven, for what you need personally. And he will give it, not because you deserve it, (well, that's another story), but because He loves you and cares for you, he really does, dear one, so ask him for what you need. Be it, strength to get through the day, healing from the pain, what have you...Just be honest.
Remember, he is near you and he hears you. And, he wants to bless you.
"And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ." Philippians 1:6
He's not done with you yet; you are a work in progress.
Be patient, dear one, be blessed in his love for you.
God The Healer: Day Four: True Peace
Day Four
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 1:2
One cannot have true peace without experiencing God's grace first. Otherwise said, without receiving the grace of God through faith, we cannot receive the peace from God.
When I first became a believer, I knew in my mind about God’s grace but not in my heart. And having the influence of drug-addicted boyfriend, I was secretly believing that I could sin because of God’s grace abounded; a license to sin. I never truly understood the power of His free gift of undeserved favor and the inward change it brought about. It wasn’t until I fell over and over into temptation that I began to understand God’s grace and mercy. At every heartbreak, returning brought a confession of sin and a deeper understanding of God’s grace. And with all the turmoil the distance from God cost caused by my sin, receiving God’s grace brought true peace.
As Paul writes, “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Take a moment to reflect on how God’s peace has impacted your life and then write about those experiences here.
“The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Saturday, December 3, 2011
God The Healer: Day Three: God is with you
Day Three
“Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the will of God” Ephesians 1:1
I believe wholeheartedly that recovery can only come through the work of the Lord working in us and revealing to us our shortcomings and sin. God alone can take a hurting lonely person and transform them into one that is whole, healthy, and of use to the kingdom of heaven. Furthermore, you need God to make you a new person
If in the midst of your pain and suffering you feel distance from the Lord, know that He is Emmanuel, God with us. Trust in the promise of Jesus’ words that He will never leave you nor forsake you. Trust in His words in Matthew 28:20, “And lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” He is the eternal present and is with you right now in this moment. Study Philippians 4:6-7, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Believe that God has sent the Holy Spirit to dwell within you and He will bring to your remembrance the truths that you need for each moment. Pray these promises and scriptures into your heart so they can become the air that you breathe.
Now, turn to Psalm 139:7-12 and meditate on the meaning of these verses, what God is speaking to you. Then, cry out to the Lord and ask for relief from your pain. Be honest, for he hears you and is attentive to your cry.
“Where can I go from Your Spirit?
Or where can I flee from your presence?
If I ascend into heaven, You are there;
If I make my bed in hell behold, You are there.
If I take the wings of the morning,
And dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,,
Even there your hand shall lead me,
And your right hand shall hold me.
If I say, “Surely the darkness shall fall on
me,”
Even the night shall be light about me;
Indeed, the darkness shall not hide from You,
But the night shines as the day;
The darkness and the light are both alike
to You.
Psalm 139:7-16
Write out your prayer on the lines below.
“The Lord is near to those who have a broken-heart, and saves such as have a contrite spirit.”
Psalm 34:18
Friday, December 2, 2011
Day Two: God the Healer
Day Two
Ephesus was located in what is now known as Turkey. It was a wealthy city with the prosperity with the businesses of agriculture, industry, and commerce. It was a city that “flourished under Roman protection”.
Many traveled to Ephesus to enjoy the many wonders; such as the “wide avenues, huge public buildings and squares, and luxurious private homes designed to impress tourists.”
It was home to a theater which could hold 25,000 people and many temples of which “used color and symbols to attract the eye.” It was also home of the goddess, Diana, whose main form of worship was sexual.
Into this city came Paul, who boldly and unabashedly preached the gospel to reveal to them the free gift of salvation to Ephesus; to teach them the power of the Christ to heal and be sanctified.
Are you looking for healing everywhere but from God? Are you frustrated with the lack of results you are getting from doing the same thing over and over? Do you want to be and to make holy? In the lines below, pour out words of confession to the Lord; He will save and He will purify. Ask the Lord for that healing and restoration with an honesty that cannot be touched but only by the hands of God.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
God the Healer: Day One: A Complete 180?
Day One
The book of Ephesians was written by Paul, who was once called Saul. Saul underwent such a radical repentance and complete turning away from his sins that God soon referred to his name as Paul. Paul was called to bring the ministry of reconciliation to the gentiles. He forsake his position in the world, a Pharisee of the Pharisees, a position of high standing in the temple, a highly respected man in the temple to become a humble servant that radically affected the church of believers then and in all ages, even today. But, Paul suffered with an internal conflict; one that no doubt caused him much sorrow and suffering. He called it his thorn in his flesh.
“And lest I should be exalted above measure by the abundance of the revelations, a thorn in the flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I be exalted above measure. Concerning this thing I pleaded with the Lord three times that it might depart from me. And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for me; for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”(2 Corinthians 12: 7-9)
No doubt you have suffered with something that can be seen as a thorn in you flesh. Depression, anxiety, bipolar, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Codependency can all be thorns in the flesh. On the lines below, write out the fears you have, ask God for relief for this affliction, or even complain and yell at God to take it away.
My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”
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