The Right Start

I just realized something.  Well actually a couple of things, so bear with me as I ramble a bit.  The first thing I noticed is that over the last few months I’ve spent some time praying in the morning, (meaning I did listen to the sermons of a pastor who was at our church until recently).  One of the things he taught was that we should be in prayer daily.  That’s nothing new, but he consciously encouraged us to actively pray every day.  I’ll have to make sure I share that with him, I’m sure he’ll get a laugh out of it.

Secondly, I’ve noticed that the format, or maybe more the content, of my morning prayer really does impact my day.  Let me share my findings.  Over the last few months there have been issues which have been heavy on my heart.  Concerns over friends’ health, worry about the relationships of family members, and the direction certain members of my immediate family are headed, and their success in daily life.

There have been days where that morning prayer time has been focused solely on those heavy subjects.  They’re important and God does need to know about them through my voice and my heart.

Other days, I’ve focused on thanking God for the abundance He’s given me.  The love shared by family and friends, the ability to provide food and shelter for myself and my wife and son.  The money, time and skills to help those less fortunate than I.  For His intervention into a situation or resolution of a difficult time.  Basically, a time giving God praise for His amazing love and grace that He shows me every day.  I will ask specifically for intervention into a difficult situation, but it is not by any stretch the focus of my conversation with God.

In both scenarios, I spend a couple of minutes asking for His guidance and protection for family, friends, church leaders, and the leaders of the city, country and the nations of the world.

Now, the days where I focus only on the difficulties or simply forget this morning time with God, those day seems to drag, and I lack a certain energy to traverse the day.  In other words, those concerns are a drain on me.

The days where I take time to thank God for all that He’s done and given me, there’s a certain pep to my step.  I’m more energetic and see most situations in a much more positive light.

I think this part of Paul’s letter to the Christian church in the city of Philippi sums up the idea I’m trying to express

Philippians 4: 4-9 ⁴ Be glad in the Lord always! Again I say, be glad! ⁵ Let your gentleness show in your treatment of all people. The Lord is near. ⁶ Don’t be anxious about anything; rather, bring up all of your requests to God in your prayers and petitions, along with giving thanks. ⁷ Then the peace of God that exceeds all understanding will keep your hearts and minds safe in Christ Jesus. ⁸ From now on, brothers and sisters, if anything is excellent and if anything is admirable, focus your thoughts on these things: all that is true, all that is holy, all that is just, all that is pure, all that is lovely, and all that is worthy of praise. ⁹ Practice these things: whatever you learned, received, heard, or saw in us. The God of peace will be with you.

By starting a day with a thankful heart, it gives you appreciation of what you DO have rather than a focus of what you don’t or what you need and/or want.  I’ve decided that my days will start with giving thanks.   I’d ask that you give this a try as well.  See how things go for just 30-days.  Initially it’ll be very difficult, but as each day passes, you’ll find it easier.  By the end of that time, I think you’ll find it comes much easier and I suspect that your days will wind up being just a bit more positive.  I’d even wager that there’s a lot more for which to be thankful than you could ever imagine.

Start today and let me know how it goes.

The Great Escape

1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has seized you that isn’t common for people. But God is faithful. He won’t allow you to be tempted beyond your abilities. Instead, with the temptation, God will also supply a way out so that you will be able to endure it.

 I was out on Facebook the other day, and one of my friends posted “I’m not going to ask what else could go wrong!” I had to laugh – clearly he was at what he thought was his limit. I don’t think there’s one of us who hasn’t been through that at one point or another in our lives. In fact I suspect that we’ve encountered “enough” multiple times.

It’s funny though, just when you think you’ve reached your breaking point and one more thing will push you over the edge, something changes. It could be that the situation totally resolves itself. Magically, you’re picked up and transported to a tropical island (in my case a gorgeous mountain stream overflowing with trout). Maybe you get a call from a friend, or a few friends, who tell you that you’ve been on their mind lately and they just wanted to check on you. No matter – the situation changes, and that’s the escape talked about here.

The word ‘temptation’ is used in the translation I prefer reading, but if you prefer some other translations, use the word ‘trial’. (which in this case means ‘test’ and I think that fits better). You will be tested from time to time – your faith, your beliefs, your dependency on Him. The thing is, in those tests, He also knows your abilities. He knows your tensile strength (the amount of pressure you can take before you break) and He will keep you just under that point. Plus, with each test, you grow stronger.

Now when I first started thinking about this whole situation, I was scared. I thought, “Wait, so with each test I grow strong in my abilities which means that the next test will be …” (you see where I’m going).  However, that means my relationship with Him has grown stronger and I am better able to not only help myself, but help others as they may struggle under the strain.

I don’t look forward to the next trial, but I know when it comes, He has strengthened me. “Father, I may face difficult times, but I believe Your promise of rest and relief. Let me find the strength and courage through You to endure this trial.”

Lost in the Storm

John 20:26-27  After eight days his disciples were again in a house and Thomas was with them.  Even though the doors were locked, Jesus entered and stood among them.  He said, “Peace be with you.”  Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here.  Look at my hands.  Put your hand into my side.  No more disbelief.  Believe!”

It’s so easy to question something that’s not right there in front of us – or a concept that’s new.  I can remember a time that unless you could show me that it was going to work, I didn’t believe you – and in fact, even if I saw it working, I questioned if there wasn’t some gimmick powering it behind the scenes.  I’ve been told I had a bad attitude or that I was a doubting Thomas.

If this is you at any level, the idea of faith in God is a concept that’s harder to grab a hold of than a wet bar of soap in a hurricane.  Each time you mind begins to settle in around and embrace it, it pops up and the wind blows it down the path a bit further.  This has been something I’ve struggled with for a great deal of my adult life.

As I read the passage from John, I realize that I’m not the only one that has experienced this (oh, I knew it before reading that – there are very few of us, if any, who haven’t had a doubt at one point or another).  Thomas was around for some amazing God moments, yet he still doubted the power of God through Jesus Christ.

Earlier, I used the analogy of grabbing a bar of soap in a hurricane.   If you think about some of the difficult times you’ve gone through, it could be said they were like storms blowing through your life and the soap is your faith.  If we don’t focus on keeping a hold of our faith in the worst of storms, it’ll just pop right out of our hands and be caught by the storm.  “Father, I am so weak at times and I doubt You.  In those times of weakness, give me courage and strength to life my eyes to You and believe. Amen”

I Held His Hand

Isaiah 41:13 I am the Lord your God, who grasps your strong hand, who says to you, Don’t fear; I will help you.

I’ve struggled to put down onto paper (well paper of sorts) how deeply I was touched by a very special woman in my life who recently passed away. I only met her a little over 4 years ago in 2010 – joining her family when I married her granddaughter that same year.

She accepted me right into the family as her grandson, and we had some wonderful conversations about her work for a local landmark company and how she met her husband. We’d talk about her brothers and her mom. At times the stories would lag – seems like those memories were filed deep in her mind and accessing them took a little effort.

We’d also get onto the subject of what I was doing for a living and where I was. I didn’t share with her that sales were difficult, or that as I collected money in the rougher parts of the city, I (and my wife) had some concerns about my safety. She’d never really say much about it, but I could tell she was a bit concerned – not just about my ability to take care of her granddaughter, but also about me.

At some point during these conversations, she’d reach out her hand and I’d take it.  I’d comment about how cold it was, and she’d laugh and then hold tight as we continued our conversation. Reassurance would fill my heart, and by the end of the conversation, I knew all would be fine at some point.

As we prepared to celebrate her life, I had an opportunity to look back on how she impacted my life, and realized that I was holding His hand as I held hers. I am so very thankful for our conversations and the wisdom and love shared – even in silence.   “Father God, thank you for the time I had with Grandmom and the love she shared from her heart and from You. Amen”

Each and Every Day

Ecclesiastes 9:10 Whatever you are capable of doing, do with all your might because there’s no work, thought, knowledge, or wisdom in the grave, which is where you are headed.

Listening to a local talk radio host about recent events had me thinking, and quite frankly, it was sufficiently moving that I pulled off to the side of the road and contemplated and prayed about a few things.

How many times have you heard the phrase “you know, life is too short…” ?  I wish I had a dollar (used to be a dime or quarter but with inflation…) every time that phrase escaped my lips – let alone the times I’ve heard it. It is especially profound when attending a funeral. I guess the realization of death brings this idea to the forefront.

Here’s the thing, that phrase couldn’t be more right. Life on this earth is way too short. Too short to continue in the job that drains the life out of you every day! Too short to continue to simply exist in a marriage that lost its luster and love a half dozen years ago! I’m not telling you to quit your job and travel like you’ve always dreamed – there are still responsibilities to support yourself and your family. Likewise, I’m not telling you to file for a divorce on Monday – there was love and a sparkle and it’s time to start working to bring that back.

I remember a conversation with a friend at church. He was working a full time job, 45+ hours a week. On top of that, he was trying to keep up with a side business that he’d started a few years ago. As we were talking, he mentioned a couple of things:  first, he was tired between the 2 jobs because he had little time for rest or relaxation, and secondly, he expressed some frustration at not having time for his wife or kids. I looked at him and asked him if he “needed” to work both jobs, to which he responded that he didn’t – between what he made from his primary job and his wife’s income they were quite comfortable – it’s just that he wanted to…I cut him off and said, “wanted to miss a trip to the zoo with the family? Holding your wife’s hand or sharing time as a family?”  He shook his head, and I think at least a part of him realized, “you know life is too short!”

What I am saying is, life IS short so accept where you are, set goals, make changes and the next time you hear “you know, life is too short” you can respond with, “Life IS short and that’s why I’m living each and every day.” As a new year approaches, think about some things that matter to you – things that you want to do that you’re putting off because you don’t have the time or don’t know how to do them. Make yourself a goal and start to live each day with all you have, that’s what He wants.

“Father, our life here on earth is a gift from You! Each day is a new package wrapped and ready for us to open. Never let me take that present for granted. Amen”

He Will Bring Us Goodness and Light

Isaiah 9:6   A child is born to us, a son is given to us and authority will be on his shoulders. He will be named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace

I have a few favorite movies, and this time of year I have the opportunity to see one of them.  “A Christmas Story” is so real-life, (ok, it maybe exaggerated a bit) but I don’t think there are many of us that don’t remember things exactly as seen in the movie at some point during Christmas.

There are a few scenes that really stand out, but by far for me, when the lamp is unwrapped and proudly displayed, I will literally laugh out loud and I know that some day I will too display a “leg lamp” in my rec room.  But as great as that lamp is, and as bright as that light shines, it can never compare to the love unveiled to us this time of year.

Our heavenly Father came to us in the flesh. He came to teach, to love and to eventually give His life for us. It all starts with that babe in a manger, weak, afraid and of the same flesh as we each have.

As we spend time with family and friends, remember how this amazing story began. Just as the great news spread across the land, you too, can bring peace to the earth by spreading that news today. If you’re reading this and you’ve not yet accepted Jesus as your Savior, bend a knee or bow your head. Look up to the heavens or simply as you’re sitting there, confess your sins to Him, ask for forgiveness and invite Jesus to come into your life and into your heart.

Merry Christmas to you all,

Rob, Jenny and Ray

Do You Know What I Know?

Luke 2: 15-17     When the angels returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go right now to Bethlehem and see what’s happened. Let’s confirm what the Lord has revealed to us.” They went quickly and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in the manger. When they saw this, they reported what they had been told about this child.

So the animals sensed it, and the Lamb came to tell the shepherds. The shepherds heard and saw it and could not contain the news and went out to tell of the birth.

In the song, it is a shepherd boy who tells the king of the arrival of Jesus. It makes for a classic song, but truly is that what happened. Imagine as an adult going to a king to tell him this news. I don’t know about you, but I have to think I’d struggle to get the words out – well maybe not – but I know I’d be nervous. Now, imagine a child telling someone that a lamb told him of this birth and moreover, that he must give him gold and silver. There’s no way!

That all said, let’s go with the shepherd boy explaining the birth of Jesus and telling the king that he should give the baby his silver and gold. These elements were as highly regarded then as they are today. What’s being said here is that we should give God our very best. In worship, our very best praise – hands raised and voices loud. Hearts focused and our minds undistracted.   Our very best of the harvest through our tithes and offerings.

We should go out and give our very best in our community – sharing His love through our actions. Share the amazing gift through our testimony, our words. Just to do our very best each and every day of our lives (to the best of our ability that day) keeping God in the forefront of our lives.

I pray that you remember God’s amazing gift during this season and share the news to the best of your ability. Go to someone today and ask, “Do you know what I know?!”

Do You Hear What I Hear?

Luke 2:10  The angel said, “Don’t be afraid!  Look!  I bring good news to you – wonderful, joyous new for all people.

I remember watching a few shows as a kid where the “star” was an animal.  In a couple, it was dogs, and in another, it was a dolphin. They’d wind up finding some kind of trouble where they needed a child (their owner or trainer) to help extricate the victim from the difficulty of the week.  Somehow those animals, through barking or jumping, would manage to communicate with their human counterpart the gravity of the situation.

I’d watch these shows on the edge of my seat – intently staring at the screen – looking away only long enough to find my dog and wonder or wish he’d somehow become the hero I saw on the screen.  Sadly, I never did rescue anyone on a broken down boat or pull someone out of a well.

In the Christmas classic; “Do You Hear What I Hear?”, there’s the line “Do you hear what I hear?, said the lamb to the shepherd boy”.  Biblically speaking, angels actually proclaimed the good news to the shepherds, but the symbolism of the lamb talking to a child isn’t lost.  Christ is often referred to as the Lamb, and we as followers, are referred to as children.  So what we have here is God incarnate talking to His people to announce His arrival on the earth.

God reveals His presence every day. The problem is, we’re just not listening.  As we approach the day we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, let us never loose sight of the many wonders revealing His presence.  “Let me hear You Father, Amen”

Do You See What I See?

Matthew 2:2   They asked, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews?  We’ve seen his star in the east, and we’ve come to honor him.”

I have a friend who has long said that you could tell how much snow was going to fall for a predicted event by the number of hawks you see in the 12 hours prior to the storm.  The more hawks, the more snow.  His theory has proven out as long as I can remember him talking about it.  This isn’t the only proven theory of animals sensing an upcoming “event”.  There are dogs that can sense a seizure coming on in its owner, or cats that predict earthquakes.  I can generally figure out the intensity of a storm by the reaction of cows in a field and/or birds in a tree.

I’m not, by any stretch of the imagination, an animal behaviorist, but it’s clear that an animal (both wild and domesticated) can sense much more than most of us.  Think about when you’ve gone to visit a neighbor and their dog is going crazy, or the reaction of your dog when you come home after work.  Now imagine the excitement if it could sense that the Creator was about to return – can you imagine the buzz in the air? Can you imagine the little lamb, heart racing, probably breathing quickly.  It couldn’t stand still and then to see a star high in the sky with a huge tail announcing the birth of the King.

In these days leading up to the birth, be open to all that’s going on around.  There is evidence of God and His love all around, signs of His great gift and unselfish grace surrounding us every day. “Father, open my mind and every sense You’ve given me so that I might see and rejoice at Jesus’ birth.  Amen”

Is It Christmas Yet?

Luke 1:41  When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the child leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.

I’m quite certain most, if not all, of us have experienced the anticipation of Christmas through the eyes and lives of a child. As days get crossed off a calendar, or doors opened on an Advent calendar, the excitement builds.

My son, now 15, plays it pretty cool, but every once in a while I can still see that spark of Christmas anticipation twinkle in his eye.  When he was a little man, we’d play this game every Christmas Eve night of “I’m thirsty”, “I’ve got to go to the bathroom”.  He would fight the urge to go to sleep, in hopes of catching a glimpse of Ole’ Saint Nick sliding down the chimney (ok, walking through the door) to deliver packages.  There were times he’d almost be visibly vibrating with excitement and there were times I thought he’d bounce right out of the bed as excited as he was. I too, can remember almost being sick I was so excited for Christmas morning – and I’m sure each of you have similar stories.

The funny thing is, that excitement didn’t start with us.  It didn’t start 4 or 5 generations ago.  It began over 2000 years ago.  John the Baptist could sense, even in his mother’s womb, the amazing gift that would soon be coming.  As Christmas approaches, we too should be filled with excitement as we  remember the birth of the Savior, born to die for each and every one of us and our sins.  “What an amazing gift, thank You Father.  Thank You, thank You thank You!!! Amen.”

Speak Easy

In the 1920’s, speak easies were much more common than anyone realized.  Likely part of the reason they weren’t as known as they could have been is because of the secrecy that surrounded them.  Countless people worked in this commercial enterprise to support the good time joints, delivering supplies, running the front of the house – even making the booze that was served.

Here’s the thing – no matter what their role, unless they owned the place, they couldn’t get in if they didn’t know the password.  Didn’t matter if the guy at the front door was your next door neighbor, if you didn’t know the word or phrase, you could only imagine how much fun was going on inside.

If you think about it getting into our Father’s heavenly house is similar.  Ephesians 2: 8 – 9 says: For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast

Imagine if confronted by God and He asks, “why should you enter My house”, how would you answer?  Maybe something like: “Well, I faithfully tithed every week and attended service every time I could.  I was a good father or mother; I was always good to others.  Oh and I went on that mission trip to Africa, helping all those children.”  That’s a wonderful life spent helping others and supporting the trip, but His answer would be “I’m sorry but that’s not the right answer”.

The correct response is along the lines, “I’ve accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior.  He died for my sins upon the cross and it is through His sacrifice, by Your grace that I may enter”.

Over the next few days consider, have I truly accept Jesus Christ as my Lord, my Savior?  If the answer is no, please take a few moments and pray.  It’s as simple as…God, I am a lost child, a sinner imperfect.  I’ve made so many mistakes ,but I know I am forgiven.  Father, I open my mind and my heart and I accept Jesus Christ as my Lord and as my Savior.   I know because of Your grace I am forgiven and accepted as one of Your children.

An Invitation

Luke 14:23 The master said to the servant, ‘Go to the highways and back alleys and urge people to come in so that my house will be filled.’

They sat in the booth – the restaurant was crowded.  People were laughing and talking, and several people as they left, stopped by the booth behind the couple and talked with an older man and his wife.  Each time as the groups walked away from the booth, they had a smile on their face and acknowledged that they’d see each other in a couple of days.

The couple talked a bit about their plans for the evening, and for the weekend.  They talked about the people who were stopping by the booth behind them and wondered what was going on in a couple of days.  They were new in town and hadn’t seen or read about anything happening.  They shrugged their shoulders and ate their meal in relative silence.

The next morning, he was up early and left to run a couple of errands.  Again, he heard people talking about how they’d see each other tomorrow.  He was really confused, and at one of the stores he asked the clerk what was going on tomorrow.  She replied, “Christmas Eve”.  The man said, “Well, where’s everyone going?” and she replied, “to church” and rushed him along to help the next person.  While he was out, his wife ran into a neighbor and she asked about the interactions she’d witnessed last night.  She got a similar response.

The sun came up on a brisk day the following morning.  The wind wasn’t blowing, but the cold that had moved in from the North was still very evident.  As the morning progressed, the couple talked briefly about Christmas and what they were going to do.  Neither could come up with something to do.  Family and friends were now a day’s drive away, so going home was out of the question.  They watched a couple of movies, but began to get a bit stir-crazy.  They decided to take a walk.

As they strolled, bundled against the cold air, the faint sound of a choir became more evident.  Soon they could hear an organ playing from another direction, and yet from another direction they heard some bells.  They came upon a brick building.  They could hear some laughing and then singing coming from the building.  As they got closer, they looked through one of the windows.

Fresh green garland decorated the pews.  A tree lit up in white lights and gold and silver ribbon stood at one end.  There was a warmth visible in the room. Now maybe it was the candles, but I suspect it was something much greater.

How can we keep secret the amazing gift given us by the Father?  Who are we to hide it within and not share?  I think back to some of the conversations I’ve had with folks I attend service with, and wonder if maybe I’ve missed this couple.  Let’s all go to the highways and back alleys and invite people to come so that His holy house is full.  “Father, I cast my fears away and ask for courage to step up and step out to spread the wonderful news of Your Son.  Amen” 

Distorted Hearing

Proverbs 12:1 – Those who love discipline love knowledge and those who hate correction are stupid

I think back to my youth, well actually mid-to-late teens.  I’ll tell you what, I am shocked I didn’t win the Nobel Prize in each category yearly.  I knew that much – or at least I thought I did.

After dad passed, I grew up quickly and in my mind, I was much more mature and had a great deal more knowledge than what my mom gave me credit.  She would make suggestions on a course I should take, and I’d puff up and tell her (in no uncertain terms) that I knew exactly what I was doing and would proceed down that road only to find potholes and umm… dead ends.  I sure did make some really stupid mistakes. Sadly, I find myself even today doing the same thing – maybe not to the extent I did back then, but on occasion, my pride gets in the way of my hearing.

Now, I don’t think I am the first teenager to go through this, nor do I think I’ll be the last.  Further, I suspect that I’m not the only one who still experiences pride-distorted hearing.  The thing is, if we close ourselves off to suggestions and corrections of others, we are in no way showing His love and openness to one another.  This goes further though – if we close ourselves off, we may very well be closing ourselves off to the very voice of God speaking through others.

It can be a difficult thing to let go of our pride and admit we may be wrong, but the other options seem to be more difficult to accept.  “Father, remove my pride and allow me to hear others, allow me to hear You. Amen”

Alone In a Roomful

Isaiah 41:10 Don’t fear, because I am with you; don’t be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will surely help you; I will hold you with my righteous strong hand.

I’m quite sure most of you can relate to this at some level – some more readily than others. I was talking to a friend a couple of nights ago and we got on the topic of the holidays. He talked about the excitement of the holidays and the time spent with family and friends. We moaned a bit about scheduling time for our wives, family, school, church, shopping and all the decorations, but then he went on to say it is in this time of year that he feels most alone.

I asked how could that be? While both his parents have been gone for some time, he has a wife, a child, and in-laws that treat him truly as a member of the family. He couldn’t put a finger on why.  Maybe it was the busy schedule and the scurrying everywhere that prevented the opportunity for him to have the long relaxed interactions that he needed, or maybe it was because he didn’t have a place he could go to celebrate some of the traditions he remembered as a child.

He went on to talk about the only way he really got through the season was through consistent conversation with God. He said that his “prayers” in no way resembled anything you find in church. It was just that – a conversation – talking about his day, the activities, recalling past times with his family, sometimes laughing and sometimes crying, but most importantly, always trying to listen.

I have to admit that the holiday blues creep up on me sometimes, and for reasons I can’t explain. I listened to him that night and took to heart his plan to not only survive the season, but to really enjoy it. Whether you’ve got something creeping up on you or not, find some time to talk with Him, it is always time well spent.

Yeah, I Know!

Proverbs 26:12    Do you see people who consider themselves wise? There is more hope for a fool than for them.

I had the opportunity to have a front row seat to a conversation between a a teenage girl and her mother. They were discussing a project the young lady was attempting to complete for school. The mother made a recommendation on the best way to complete the task and the girl snapped back “I know!”.

At first I was outraged at how the girl spoke to her parent, but there were a few other emotions that quickly bounced into my head. I was embarrassed, because I could still look back and hear a similar conversation with my mom, and then I was amused because I knew what the outcome would be – similar to what mine was, similar to some of the outcomes I’ve seen my teenage son go through. After a few seconds of contemplation, I walked past and quietly reassured the mother that her daughter will learn, we all did – and do.

It can be a very monumental task to be given domain over a project at work, school, or church. The success or failure of the project is squarely on your shoulders. The human side comes out, and thoughts of success and your reputation come into the picture. An agenda is developed – your agenda – and before you know it, God’s plans are forgotten.  Your plans have grown out of control to the point that when He does try to give you direction through friends, family, or other church members, you can no longer hear His voice.

When given a responsibility, remember it is God who has entrusted you with its completion. It is God who has the ultimate plan for its success or failure. Never find yourself so wise you can’t hear His voice from even the tiniest of mouths.

“Father, it is so easy to forget it is You who directs us all. Never let me loose sight of You and if I do, I pray that I hear Your voice to guide me back to Your plan. Amen”

A Day of Fishing

“There’s a fine line between fishing and just standing on the shore like an idiot” Steven Wright

I can’t tell you the times I’ve stood on the shore and thought myself an idiot for fishing in the rain, cold, or several hours of blazing hot sun. I can remember this one time that I faced all three throughout the day.

A couple of my friends and I had gone down to the river and grabbed a couple of campsites so that Saturday morning we’d be ready to go at the break of dawn. They’d called for some rain overnight but it didn’t wind up moving in until just about the time we were getting up and dressed. After a brief discussion, we decided to head on out – it wasn’t that bad, all things considered.

We drove down to the lake, donned our rain gear, and started to walk out on the shore and casting out. With each cast, the wind seemed to pick up a bit, the rain grew a little harder, and any flaws in the “rain proof” gear became much more evident. Within 30 minutes, we’d not had but maybe 4 nibbles among us.  We were soaked and the wind had a biting chill.   I was about to make the suggestion that we should find a warmer and much dryer spot when the rain slowed and then stopped.

It didn’t take long for it to go from a rain-chilled sunrise to an ever increasingly steamy morning. By noon, the cold rain from the morning would have been a refreshing break. We’d had a little luck, but I was quite sure there wasn’t going to be a big enough catch to avoid going to the local grocery store. We finally gave in after a long day of Missouri weather and fish more stubborn than we were.

That night, sitting around the fire, we talked about our adventure. We all agreed that to many we surely looked like idiots – and maybe we were – but then again…In life, aren’t there times that we feel like idiots – whether it’s spending the day fishing, or blindly believing in our heavenly Father?

You’re not being honest if you cannot admit that there have been times where you question His existence. That you think, or even say, “I don’t know why I bother…..if only I could hear Him or see Him.” The apostle Thomas was one who required proof, and in John 20:29 Jesus said to him in their final interaction “Do you believe because you see me? Happy are those who don’t see and yet believe.”

There are times when we sit around the “campfire” that we can feel foolish for blindly following Him when we can’t see Him, hear Him or touch Him… or can we? I think we can – in the love shared by a friend, the lovingly wise words given us by a child, or by the embrace of a brother or sister at church. It is easy to let those doubts drive us from His grace, but He is with us each and every day. In the most difficult times we must somehow find a way to hold on tighter. “Father I believe. I believe, I do believe…Amen.”

Forget the Last or You’ll Miss the Next

Mark 11:25 And whenever you stand up to pray, if you have something against anyone forgive so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your wrongdoings.

As I reel in anticipation, I feel a slight tug and then another and the rod tip bends a bit. I pull up on the rod to set the hook and begin to reel in what, from every indication, is the biggest catch of the day – if not the season.

Over the next 2 or 3 minutes I let it take a little line, then reel it in a bit. I honestly think I have something big enough that my wife will someday let me put it up on the wall of my man cave (by the way, I hate that phrase, the entire house is mine and my wife’s, so to say I have a cave, well, anyway).

All of a sudden, I feel something a bit different, my rod tip levels out and there’s no tension on my life. The biggest fish (in my mind) I’ve ever hooked into is gone! I reel in my line, and sure enough, nothing – nothing but my lure.  Somehow, I must not have set that hook right and now I’m totally frustrated at myself.  Looking out into the water trying to see the fish and mumbling under my breath, I look at the lure. It’s fine and the knot’s fine.  Dang IT!

Still irritated at myself and mumbling, I cast out to almost the exact spot as the previous cast. As I begin to reel, I stare at the spot where it got off.  Slam! Another strike, but I miss it.  What’s going on? So I quickly reel in and BAM another one, but I miss it too.  By now I’m ready to jump in after them. My hands are shaking a bit, and my focus is torn between what’s happened before and what’s going on now.  Needless to say, while I had some great hits, I didn’t have a successful trip.

If you think about it, there are a lot of things that go like that. I am far from a perfect man and even farther away from being a perfect husband.  There have been times that what’s gone on at work has impacted my relationship with my wife.  I remember a time, not long ago, the drive home from work hadn’t gone very well.  I’d gotten cut off, causing me to run onto the shoulder.  Tired from a busy day at work and what had just happened, I was not in a good mood when I got home.  My wife, not knowing what happened, hit me with a question; I don’t even remember what it was about.  That was it – I snapped off an answer and immediately I knew I’d hurt her feelings.

I tried to apologize, but my frame of mind and tone did not sound apologetic, let alone sincere. You see, I’d not let go of the long day at work or the incident on the way home.  How can I ask for forgiveness until I’ve set my mind right and forgiven those who may have done something to me?  You see, just like when I was out fishing, my focus was torn and not truly on the situation in front of me.  My energy was more on what had happened than what was currently happening. It’s time to move on – forgive and be forgiven.  “Father, help me to move on, to forgive, and as I do, forgive me. Amen”

A Friday Afternoon

Ephesians 5:15-16   So be careful to live your life wisely, not foolishly. Take advantage of every opportunity because these are evil times

It was a warm September day, about 2:05 pm and I heard the TV change over and a familiar voice fill the air. Harry Caray was giving the line-up as the Cubs took the field at Wrigley.

I finished making a glass of tea, grabbed another drink, walked to the living room and handed it to my mom. She wasn’t a huge baseball fan, but she could relate with Harry, and while Harry could drive me crazy, I loved (and still do) the Cubs.  It was a way Mom and I could share some time together making a memory that now, 18 years later, still makes me smile.  We didn’t have a chance to share a moment like this again but it is one that I’ll always cherish.

Recently, because of some things that have happened to some people near me and things going on in my life, I’ve come to once again realize that time is so precious and goes by so fast.   With this realization and re-focus, I will look at things a bit differently.   What’s your focus in life?  Is it the things or is it the people?

“Father, open my eyes to the things that matter – my spouse, my children, my family, my friends and most importantly Father, You.  Amen”

It’s Not Fair

I overheard a conversation while I was waiting in line the other day and it made me think a bit. It was a husband and wife talking about an experience at work.  He was talking about someone at his office, “Every day she comes in just a few minutes before 9 in a huff making sure we all know she’s there.  She sets her purse and everything down – all but dropping them.  She goes off about how this driver wouldn’t get out of her way, or that person wouldn’t do this…  then she goes and get her breakfast from the cafeteria.”

Sounding quite frustrated, he continued, “She claims to work through her lunch, but right at noon she heads to the cafeteria again. She grabs her lunch and brings it back to her desk, where she proceeds to have her lunch with a couple of girlfriends laughing and discussing their children and husbands.  After about an hour of them at the table, she will finally get back to work.  She’ll put in a couple of more hours, but she easily is out of the office by 4:30 every day.  I just don’t get how she can get away with it!  I work my rear off, I’m early every day and usually give them 10-15 minutes extra each day.  Still, she’s treated just as well as I am, and I know based on her comments, her pay and raises are just as good as what mine are.”

I think we’ve all experienced this inequity, or perceived inequity. It can absolutely eat you alive.  Why is it some people seem to get the same (or more) even though you work just as hard and do all the right things?  It’s not a problem that’s new to this generation, decade, or even millennium.

“…These who were hired last worked one hour, and they received the same pay as we did even though we had to work the whole day in the hot sun” Matthew 20:12

I can’t tell you how many times I heard it growing up, and I’m sure, if asked, my son would say the same thing – Life is not fair! We can react in a couple of ways to this. We can let it work us up and spend countless hours and energy focused on, and complaining about it, or we can accept it (a little complaint is fine now and again) and enjoy and cherish what we do have.  Here’s an example – I think it would be amazing to have 2 brand new cars, a new house and money to go wherever I want, but honestly, having my son and my wife doing whatever (except stripping wallpaper), wherever, is a much greater gift to me.

Today, really focus and be thankful for what you DO have. God has given us all so very much to be thankful.  “Father, open my eyes to the gifts in my life and let me be thankful and filled with joy. Let all those around me hear me praise You!  Amen” 

Do I HAVE To?

Luke 22:41-42       He withdrew from them about a stone’s throw, knelt down, and prayed. He said, “Faher, if it’s Your will, take this cup of suffering away from me.  However, not my will but Your will must be done.”

How many of us have had a spouse, parent or loved one say something like “Hey we need help at…” and your first reaction is to cringe, avoid eye contact and quickly come up with a reason not to get involved?

I’m typing this part one-handed because I’m raising my hand as high as I can and thinking yep, I’ve done it and yep, I’ve seen it. At least once a month, our church will ask for volunteers for one of many missions out into the community.  A lot of the time, it’s only a one-time thing for maybe an hour or 2 on a Saturday.  I look over at my wife and one of will say, “I don’t care”, or “do we have anything scheduled?”.  The funny thing is, most of the time, (with the exception of marching band season and an occasional work event) we really don’t have anything planned, yet we so very rarely put our names down to volunteer.

On the rare occasion that we do commit to something, and it’s time to go, we, (ok I) hem and haw, then complain about not wanting to do it and just making myself miserable.  I’ve not backed out, but I’ve come up with some doozy excuses.  Thankfully, Jesus had a better spirit about the task set before him. Imagine how different life would be if instead of accepting it, he knelt down and said “You know I’ve been thinking about this whole crucifixion thing, and I’m not feeling so good – not to mention there’s a heck of a party going on, and I’m not going to make it.”

The sacrifices we make to help others can never be what He made for us on that cross, but we each can make a difference in a life. All we have to do is acknowledge that little voice in the back of our heads the next time we’re asked to help out and submit to His will. “Father, let us hear Your voice, understand Your will and let us act and not run. Amen”

My Father My Friend

John 15:15  I don’t call you servants any longer, because servants don’t know what their master is doing. Instead, I call you friends, because everything I heard from my Father I have made known to you.

I suppose I’m lucky, while as I’ve explained at least once before I’m fairly young in my formal Christian life, it was clear from a very young age that there was a Creator, God who looked down upon us. He was there to have a conversation, although my early teachers made it seem as though it should be a very formal style of communication.

As I grew older, I found myself moving away from those teachers, but I still found some time to have a conversation with God. Those talks strayed far away from that formality I’d been taught.  I can remember times that I’d have something hanging over me and I’d grab a big soda and head out for a drive.  I’d talk to Him about work, friends, life and even girls.  Anything and everything was fair game on one of those drives.  It’s during that time I realized God was more than the Creator – He was and He is – my friend.

I’ve not always cultivated that friendship, and in fact, I’d say I’ve probably expected a bit too much and taken advantage of that relationship from time to time. I’ll be honest, for a time I walked away from my friend.  Oh I knew He was there and I even checked in now and again, but I stopped having the conversations only one friend could have with another.

Looking at my life, I can’t imagine Him not being there then, now, or going forward. My Father, my Friend, is with me no matter what.  He’s there to listen to my aimless ramblings or to help solve a mystery of life.

Instead of ending this with a short prayer, I’m going to ask that sometime today, when you’re by yourself, you have a conversation with God just like you would a friend. Talk to Him about your day, your kids, and spouse – whatever is on your mind

He wore shorts to church!?

I can only imagine the reaction if our pastor stood in front of the congregation in shorts, t-shirt and flip-flops.  I would wager a guess there’d be more than one person leaning over and whispering in outrage “he wore SHORTS to church!”  I’m also pretty sure that the reaction would change little in most churches today.

Now imagine if a stranger walked in front door Sunday, maybe a bit road weary, a face that’s not seen a razor in a few days maybe weeks, dust and dirt from the road covering his hair and clothes.  How would he be received, not how should he be received but just how would he be received?

I suspect that there might be a couple of people who’d come up to shake his hand and welcome him, but just as before there’d probably be even more people leaning over and whispering.   Yet if you think about it, Jesus would have been that man 2000 years ago; he would have been “unkept” even considered “dirty”.  Who are we to judge simply on appearance?  I’m not saying the next homeless person you see is Jesus, likely they are not, but what if it were?

A little story, one day when I was working as an insurance agent out in the field, I was having a bad day, a bad week,…let’s face it I wasn’t enjoying my work at all.  Not only was it not what I wanted to be doing, but what I was doing wasn’t truly keeping my family fed or a roof over their heads.  That day was filled with prayers and questions.  Finally in a bit of sarcasm I said, “God, I know I’m not supposed to ask but I can’t figure out Your plan for me, why am I here?  What am I supposed to be doing?  Please give me some kind of answer.”  I went on to say, “You gave Moses a burning bush, why can’t You give me a burning bush too?!”

As I worked through my day, I was brought to an apartment complex.  In the front entry there were some seats and it wasn’t uncommon for people to be chatting there with friends.  This day as I walked in there was an older gentleman.  He wasn’t well kept and quite honestly, the smell coming off of him was pretty overwhelming but as I walked in I said “hi” as most would in passing.  He smiled and said hello.  There was still so much life in that man but it was hidden.  I mentioned something about the weather and we began to talk.  We talked about sports, family and suddenly he looked at me and said “trust that you are headed in the right direction, He has a plan for you”.  I smiled and said thank you telling him that I had been questioning that grand plan today.  He smiled again and simply said “Trust in Him!”

I thanked him and let him know I had an appointment upstairs.  I signed in at the security desk, right next to where this conversation had taken place. I went up for my appointment but found that no one was home.

I’d been upstairs not more than 10 minutes, plenty of time to consider over and over again my conversation with the gentleman.  I decided I wanted to tell him thank you again.  I got downstairs and signed out and asked the security guard where the older gentlemen that I had talked with was.  Security told me that there had not been anyone sitting where I’d pointed all day.

I looked around the building for a bit but to no avail.  I had a few clients in that building, so I was there a couple of times a week but never saw this man again.

God gave me that burning bush, but instead of leaves branches and flames He’d sent me a man, man with His words, assurance and yes even comfort for that particular stretch of my journey.  If I’d just walked past this man, not engaged him in conversation, I’d never had a glimpse of God’s amazing wisdom.  As you walk along the path don’t turn away from the shorts and flip flops…don’t let the dirt and unshaven face keep you from Him today.

I Want…

Philippians 4:19   My God will meet your every need out of his riches in the glory that is found in Christ Jesus.

I was at the store earlier this week and seemed to follow a couple and their pre-school aged child down each aisle. As I did, I had the opportunity to see the interaction between the child and the parents.

We’d not made it out of the produce section when I heard “Mommy, I want some grapes!”. In the cart went grapes. Next we were going past the deli and “Daddy I want cheese!” A few passes of the slicer later and in flopped a package of cheese. Down the soda isle, yet another demand. Next chips and another demand, they looked at the child and then each other. I heard the father say “I don’t think you need those”. The tears started and I heard a little voice say, “You don’t love me?” The parents tried to explain that it wasn’t that they didn’t love them but that there were many snacks already in the cart – plus what they had at home.

As a parent, it’s difficult not to give your child everything they ask for and think they need, if you’re capable of giving it to them.  But as a parent, you also know you must do what is best for the child and usually ‘everything’ isn’t the best. As the child matures, they grow to understand the difference between a want and a need.

I suspect our relationship with our heavenly father is very similar. I can remember times I’d go to Him and ask for everything – thinking I needed it, when really, it was simply something I wanted. And when I didn’t get it, I’d start to question if He was with me and if He still loved me.

As I’ve grown older, wiser, and my relationship with God has deepened, I’ve come to see the difference. It doesn’t mean I still don’t ask for an “Xbox-one” now and again. No, I still ask, (I’m still a child in this relationship) but as I mature, I understand more and more that everything I want isn’t always everything I need.

“Father God, I am Your child and I’m going to ask You for things I think I need. Help me to understand that I don’t always need what I ask for and You will always provide me with the things I truly need. Amen”

SQUIRREL!!!

Proverbs 15:23    To give an appropriate answer is a joy; how good is a word at the right time!

It’s been a few summers ago.  I woke up well before the sun had broken the horizon. I was awake and didn’t want to hang out around the house. I made up my mind I was going to head down to the lake for the day to do a little fishing.

I was excited – I went out to the kitchen to make a fresh pot of coffee while I threw on some clothes and grabbed my gear. I walked out to the kitchen, only to find that the coffee pot had puked grounds and coffee all over the counter. Something obviously either wasn’t in the right place or it was clogged. I didn’t let it phase me, I just cleaned up the mess and decided to stop by a convenience store on the way out. I was going to stop anyway, because I needed ice and some gas for my Jeep.

I made my stop and I was headed south, music playing loud and thoughts of crappie danced in my head. I got about 20 miles south, only to find that construction had the road down to 2 lanes. Not a big deal, I’m still making good time, the sun was barely visible. Then, out of nowhere, well actually from the driveway of the old farm house, comes a tractor and a truck with its flasher on, they’d pulled out in front of me!  Hitting the brakes and screaming in my head (or maybe actually out loud), “there is not another person within a mile behind me!”, I continued on my way.

Still I’m headed south, making time – just much, MUCH slower. It’s ok, I’m headed fishing. For the next 7 miles, at no more than 15mph, I followed a green tractor and a mid 80’s pickup truck. The sun was a bit higher in the sky when they finally turned, but I was still excited and now could get back up to highway speed. I only had about 30 miles to go.

I get to the lake, find a spot to park, grab my pole, my tackle box, bait and head the lake. First case, I snag a stick just below the water. I cast a couple of more times and snag the log to which the stick was attached. After tying on another hook and baiting it, I attempt to cast out again, only to find that there was huge bird’s nest (for those that don’t fish, imagine a bunch of string in a huge tangle) in my open-face reel.

I’m now officially discouraged – no I’m mad, ding dang it – I just wanted to fish a bit and look how this has turned out!  Anyway, I’m cleaning out the reel and notice a squirrel chattering on a branch maybe 50 feet from me. I can’t see what it’s yelling at, but it did catch my attention. All of a sudden, a second squirrel comes running down the branch. The first squirrel, startled, jumps in the air but instead of landing on the branch, it falls into the water. As it’s falling it’s spread out like it’s trying to grab the air to stop itself. The 2^nd squirrel is looking down and chattering, I’d say laughing, because I know I was.

After I dried my tears, I realized God had given me a laugh and the peace I’d been looking for. I cleared out the reel and finally got back to fishing and had a great day.

God puts the right word in our lives – it may be a co-worker, a spouse, your child, a song, or even a squirrel grasping for air, but it’s there. Who knows, you might even be a squirrel for someone today.

“Father, thank you for our friends and family who bring joy into our lives each day. They are a wonderful gift of love from You. Amen”

A Guided Tour

Proverbs 16:9   People plan their path, but the Lord secures their steps.

I can remember a few times when I’ve gone on vacation where I’ve not been responsible for transportation. Either we’ve hopped on a train to go from one point or another, or I’ve enjoyed a bus tour of an area.

Specifically, I can remember going to South Dakota one summer. I’d done some research and found a company that would pick us up at the hotel and shuttle us to several different locations such as Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse and the Badlands.  That day was absolutely one of the most amazing days I’ve spent.

I could simply look out the window and enjoy the scenery – I didn’t have to worry about directions or parking. The fees covered admission.  It was so relaxing.

A friend and I were talking about life and the plans that God has for us. We agreed that it is very difficult to give up the control and let God take the reins.  That conversation made me think about the bus tour I enjoyed, and I realized that during the times that I’d given up control and relied on God, I’ve had a chance to look out the window and enjoy the scenery.

It’s not always clear where He’s leading us – quite frankly there are times it’s not clear that He’s even with us –  but He’s not ever left our side. When there’s a time where the directions aren’t clear and you don’t know where or which way to turn – give it to Him.  To whom better could you turn over the tour?

“Father, I’m going to turn over my life to you.  I may grab it back from time to time, but please be patient with me. I know you’ll never leave my side.  Amen”