Run The Race

"Do you not know 

that in a race all the runners run,

but only one receives the prize?

So run that you may obtain it."

I Corinthians 9:24

". . . and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,"

Hebrews 12:1b

    Kareling eyes were dripping with tears.  The horse that she had climbed upon was running so fast that the wind stung her eyes making them water.  But the truth of it was that she had just witnessed her beloved grandfather and grandmother succumb to the machinations of the enemy.  Her home of so many years was going up in flames and she was fleeing for her life.  The young girl had no answers and nothing to go back to.  What was once a beautiful day of singing and worship the day before had turned into a nightmare in the morning.  No songs were coming to her mind as was her custom at any given moment of the day.  Just a deep anguishing sob that was rising in her chest ready to spill out soon.  

Her grandpapa had told to her ride as fast as she could to the castle.  Kareling wasn't even sure if the horse she was riding was going in the right direction.  Things had happened so fast as soon as she had climbed up upon that beautiful animal.  So, here she was, riding faster that she had ever gone before trusting that the horse would bring her to safety.

Where she was going was the least of her worries.  Kareling had taken a moment to look back at her home on fire only to see a small band of enemy see her flee.  She had no doubt that they would follow and try to over take her.  In and out of the trees, back and forth she rode hoping to throw them off her track.  Every time she thought she heard something her ride would seemingly put in more and her speed would increase.   Had she just been in on one of her riding lessons this ride would be thrilling/terrifying to say the least.  But in this moment she could only be glad that her horse was fast and sensed danger too.

The chase went for some time.  Kareling's fingers were going numb from holding on so tight to the mane of the horse.  She was starting to realize and fear that her strength was waining.  "Hold on, don't let go" she reminded herself.  Her legs were cramping now from the sheer pressure that she was using them to cling to the horse.  She couldn't give in to her body weakening.  And then just as she thought it was over she heard music.  Kareling wondered if she was loosing her mind because it wasn't coming from her.  No, the music was coming from up ahead of her.  A gentle wooing that seemed to ease her burden.

"Afflicted saint, to Christ draw near, Your Savior's gracious promise hear,

His faithful Word, you can believe, that as your days your strength shall be.

So, sing with joy, afflicted one; 

the battle's fierce, but the victory's won;

God shall supply all that you need.  

Yes, as your days your strength shall be.

Your faith is weak, your foes are strong, and if the conflict should be long.

the Lord will make the tempter flee, that as your days your strength shall be.

So, sing with joy, afflicted one;

the battle's fierce, but the victory's won;

God shall supply all that you need.

Yes, as your days your strength shall be.

Should persecution rage and flame, still trust in your Redeemer's name; 

in fiery trials you shall see, that as your days your strength shall be.

So, sing with joy, afflicted one;

the battle's fierce, but the victory's won;

God shall supply all that you need.

Yes, as your days your strength shall be.

When called to bear your weighty cross, or sore affliction, pain, or loss,

or deep distress or poverty, still as your days your strength shall be.

So, sing with joy, afflicted one;

the battle's fierce, but the victory's won;

God shall supply all that you need.

Yes, as your days your strength shall be."

Sweet, sweet music seeped into Kareling's soul.  She forgot about her numb fingers and the cramping in her legs.  All she wanted now was to go to the music, hear more of the music and be part of the music.  No longer was she afraid of what was behind her that would try to take her life.  She looked forward, striving with her horse toward a better goal.  One with hope and comfort that would ease her troubled heart.

It wasn't surprising then, when coming out of the trees, that the castle was before them.  Large and magnificent it was.  Those on the castle walls could see Kareling from a far off racing towards them.  The gates were opened and troops ran to meet her ushering  her into the safety of the Kingdom.  

It was then Kareling could let go of her ride with a huge hug and fall into the arms of the healers.

*The idea of endurance often reflects the idea of pulling oneself up by their own bootstraps.  Whereas it is a good thing to be strong and healthy there are times in our lives when we are not. And the truth of it is this ~ we are frail human beings.  We need a Savior.  With Him we are strong and only with Him.

Chose This Day Whom You Will Serve

•  "Mark this, then, you who forget God,
• Lest I tear you apart, and there be none to deliver!
• The one who offers thanksgiving as his sacrifice glorifies me;
• to one who orders his way rightly
• I will show the salvation of God!"
• ~ Psalm 50:22-23

    Today was the day.  The Juggler woke anxiously, a little misplaced as to where he was.  It didn't take long before he remembered that he was in the castle instead of his bed in his own little room.  To say that he was afraid was putting it mildly.  The little man was shaking from head to toe and having a hard time breathing.  

    "Get it together, you fool.  Has not the MC himself said that He would be with you?"  Taking a deep breath the Juggler stood up straighter, almost as if willing bravery to enter his body.  He would be faithful to his Master Commander even if it were to be his last day on the earth.  That the Lord would want to use him was, he thought to himself, a miracle in itself.  The Juggler loved the King and ever since the MC had come knocking on his door, wanting him, the love had grown.  

    There was danger ahead but as long as the juggler focused on the MC he could move forward in the strength that the King would give him.  So with resolve and determination he arose, washed his face and dressed for the day ahead.

    Others were gathering now in the courtyard of the castle.  The OMW (Old Man Warrior) was sitting on the steps while his younger brother (The Warrior) paced nervously back and forth waiting for the rest to come.  It was the Warrior's dearest love that was held captive in the camp of the enemy.  The Warrior had been waiting for this day it seemed like for ages.  

    As the Juggler entered the courtyard a smile spread across the OMW's face.  

    "He came," thought he.  "He is really a giant among men!"  The old warrior rose then to greet the Juggler with genuine gladness.  This helped bolster the small man even more.  The Juggler's cart had been outfitted the day before with all the tools that he would need for the performance of his life.  He was to be the main character in this rescue attempt.  His acting skills were going to be put to the test.  With each stride that the Juggler took he would remind himself that the Lord was with him because there was no doubt in his mind that he wouldn't be able to pull this off on his own.   

    

"No weapon that is fashioned against you shall succeed,

and you shall refute every tongue 

that rises against you in judgment.

This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord

and their vindication from me, declares the Lord."

~ Isaiah 54:17

Finally, the Master Commander entered the courtyard.  All eyes turned to him with eager anticipation.  The day turned out to be a cloudy one.  No sunshine and it seemed as if the weather itself sensed the seriousness of what lay ahead of the team that was to set out for a rescue.  Actually, this was helpful for each member of the rescue team since it cemented resolve in the way before them.  As the MC took the stand he looked fondly on each one before He spoke.  Finally, when the words came out of His mouth, the only sound to be heard was His voice.  

        "Be strong and courageous.

Don't be afraid or scared of them;

for Yaweh your God himself is who goes with you.

He will not fail you nor forsake you."

    ~ Deut. 3.16

All those of the rescue team took the MC's words as if it was life-giving food.  In that moment each one of them considered their own lives unimportant.  Live or die they would go forward in the strength of the Lord.  They were filled with hope and assurance in knowing that the Master Commander was leading the way.  The day would be victorious no matter what the outcome.

So, as it was, each one took that first step to move forward.  And with each following step the heaviness of the task seemed to lighten.  The juggler climbed up into the seat of his cart, grabbed the reins and awaited the command to go.  This wasn't a single person mission but it would seem like one as the Juggler was heading out alone.  He looked toward the MC and as the Lord gave a nod the juggler snapped the reins and made a click of his tongue.  The horse gave a pull and the cart, along with the juggler, rustled and creaked as it started to move.  Miraculously, the gate of the castle opened and the juggler, cart and horse slowly left the castle grounds.  He was on his way to save Honoria and his heart was full. 

The sky was still gray and the Juggler made his way down the road toward the enemy camp.  It would take long hours and possibly a few days to get close.  But that was of no matter.  The time on the road would seem but a moment as the juggler headed toward his destination.  Soon enough he would be at the enemy gates looking for permission to enter.  Then the show would begin.  A smile started to make it's way to the juggler's face.  This was going to be grand!

Day one turned into day two as the little man sat on his perch.  The clip clopping of the tiny pony's hooves gave rhythm to his movements and new songs came from out of nowhere.  These he sang with gusto and the time melted away.  When he came to the enemy's gate he was surprised, shocked really, to have arrived so soon.  All of his previous happy thoughts swiftly disappeared as the gate loomed large.  "So, it begins", thought he as the smile on his face turned into a steely grin.   

"Do not fear; I will help you."

~ Isaiah 41:13

"Hello, Hello.  Open the gate to let me in.  I have come to entertain and amuse.  The Juggler is my name and laughter is in store for you".  His voice echoed loudly and he smiled ever so cunningly.  Today was to be the enemies undoing and possibly his own.  Nevertheless the Juggler was moving forward and not in retreat.

The gates slowly started to open and the most unsightly creatures came out.  The Juggler sucked in his breath as they were the ugliest things he had ever seen.  Evil, left unchecked, burrows itself into the very heart of a person and changes his visage.  The Juggler could tell that these creatures were saturated with it.  Evil seemed to ooze out of them and circle around them.  The Juggler had a hard time not retching.  This he turned into a cough and smiled warmly at the persons before him.

"My fine gentlemen.  I am here to give you a show like no other.  For a small price I will give you wonders upon wonders.  Now, if you will show me to the center of the camp, I will start preparations for a time of joyous spectaculars that you have not seen before."  The creatures were more than willing to allow the Juggler entrance as their lives were dull and full of sorrow.  They actually didn't realize that they were missing something in this life as they were used to the shallowness of their existence. 

Coldness and wetness pervaded the encampment.  Even the fires that were lit around seemed not to bring and warmth or comfort.  But this was of no concern to the Juggler.  He was shown to a spot near the center, slowed his cart to a standstill and hopped down.  Mud oozed up around his boots and he quickly realized that in no moment of time he would be wet and cold himself.  "Focus", he told himself.  "Let the warmth of the Son come from within".  A smile crept to his face.  Not the plaster face of a smile forced but a true smile that comes from that which is good and pleasant.  

So with a warm heart and a cheerful countenance  the Juggler went his way preparing for the evening's events.  Often he would persuade a bystander to help in the moving and positioning of his props.  More and more people came out to see the curious little man and his cart.  At one point the juggler had to dissuade those who wanted to be a part of the set up.  Such was the lives of the miserable creatures.  Anything to pass the time and one kind word to them would have them hunger for more.  It wasn't to far into the preparations that the juggler felt compassion for many of them.  

His compassion, however, did not extend to those in charge of the camp.  Cruel beasts, the lot of them, seemingly enjoying the pain and discomfort of those whom they thought beneath them.  The Juggler knew that even these weren't beyond redemption but it is always much harder to feel any sort of compassion for those who despitefully use another.  

In the shadows Honoria watched with quiet intent.  Of this she was certain that the little man with his little cart was not what he seemed.  She had seen him before in the courtyard of the castle and wondered what was really going to be happening shortly.  Hope sprang in her heart but she was also careful not to show it.  There were others, she noticed, that were not familiar to this camp.  They were cloaked and covered so as not to be noticed.  But she knew, they didn't belong here.  She could feel it and the presence of light.  

So, the evening began.  It started with music from the cart of the Juggler.  Lo, and behold, it was the Juggler coming out of the cart strapped with his musical instruments on him.  He had a harmonica in his mouth, cymbals attached to his knees and an accordion in his hands.  Bells on his feet did their job also with the tinkle, tang, tinkle of the dance.  The Juggler played as loud as he could.  Twirling and jumping and dancing around.  It was catchy, his tune, and soon those around were clapping and jumping along.  And then something spectacular happened.  The Juggler danced toward his cart and lighted a match.  Loud booming and light sprang up into the air.  There were fireworks of every kind.  The people were transfixed and amazed.  Never had they seen anything like it.  Even the soldiers of the camp were distracted.  This went on for quite some time.  Time enough for those garbed in cloaks to find Honoria and slip out the gates and not be seen.  The plan had worked!  The Juggler had been successful in the main purpose of the evening.  

Now, all he had to do was get out of there himself.  

* I have found that many are the times that God uses ways that are somewhat different than what I expect. There is no doubt that His ways are beyond comprehension and when I realize the works of His hands it brings me to a place of worship and gratitude.  Another thing that I have learned (and am still learning) is that His timing is always best and produces the greatest results.  Most of us, if we are honest with ourselves, are uncomfortable with unresolved somethings.  I think it takes a lifetime to learn the lesson..."be still and know that I am God".   

    

Seasons Greetings & Happy New Year

 "Come, dearest child, into our hearts, and leave your crib behind you!

Let this be where the new life starts for all who seek and find you.

To you be honor, thanks and praise, for all your gifts this time of grace.

Come, conquer and deliver this world, and us, forever."    

~ Break Forth, O Beauteous

Every year I have great plans to send out Christmas cards with pictures and news of what is  happening with the Morse's.  Most times it is hit and miss so this year instead of a Christmas greeting I have decided (by default) to send out an epiphany letter.  Epiphany is "the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles as represented by the Magi (Matthew 2:1-21).  So, according to the definition from the Oxford Languages I have until January 6th to send this note out.  I actually got this from my mother, who would type on her antique typewriter, as this is what she sometimes did.

Dan and I are well and living in central Oregon.  We bought this place last year and moved in totally in March of 2021.  Don and Dee (Dan's parents) have moved with us (they moved down in May) and live in a small ADU that we had built on the property for them.  The sun shines more here but living in a high desert it is typically colder in the winter which we don't mind as long as the sun shines.  We have a bit of snow now and I told Dan this morning that it feels like we live in a snow globe.

Our children are doing well.  The last couple of years haven't been without challenges for some but in God's good mercy He has brought them through with blessings.  We have had two grandchildren get married this past summer and now have a great grand baby on the way.  This is so exciting as we love the babies!

The week before Christmas half of the family came down for an early Christmas celebration. Then on Christmas day we had more family show up for dinner and gifts.  Thankful does not describe well enough our joy! 

We are incredibly grateful for all those who have been a part of our lives and continue to be.  Whether past friends or new friends you are all very dear  to us.  Having family that enjoys one another and who can laugh together (along with the shedding of tears too) is essential and is health to our old bones.

And so, this Christmas and Epiphany season, Dan and I want to send out our most happy greeting.  Wishing you and yours a very merry time and continued hope for the future.  Our God is so very good and gracious to those whom He came to save.

Come, Lord Jesus.  Conquer and deliver this world, and us, forever.

Dying, Yet Alive

 "It is not death to die, to leave this weary road

and join the saints who dwell on high

who've found their home with God.

It is not death to close the eyes long dimmed by tears

and wake in joy before Your throne

delivered from our fears."

Grandpapa ran from the shelter of the woods and his darling Kareling towards the burning cottage.  He knew his wife of so many years was there and he had to get to her.  The enemy had encircled their home that they had loved and lived in.  It was now a blazing fire.  Would she be hiding, waiting for him?  Would she still be alive or would the enemy had already gotten to her?  He was driven beyond the thought for his own safety and ran as fast as he could toward the glow of the buildings and the love of his life. 

The enemy was in a panic for the Kingdom had been advancing on them for some time now.  So in order to do something they headed north towards the small farm to wreck havoc.  It wasn't much to burn down an old cottage and farm but it made them feel like they were gaining ground nonetheless.  In reality, this small place was neither a grand victory or small defeat.  But the ignorance of the enemy knows no bounds and always thinks highly of itself.  So the victory cries were abundant until . . . . 

She came out of the shadows.  Grandmama had hoped with a little burning the enemy would go away.  But this was not to be.  And frankly, she was quite put out that they had come to pillage and destroy her home.  Grandmama had her sword of long ago.  She and her husband were known as the mighty warriors of the early wars and she wielded it like no other after her.  It felt good in her hands.  It was as if time were forgotten and she was young again.  That she was old was of no question.  She had shimmering white hair and wrinkled skin.  But in this moment, strength enter her body and her sword was light as a feather.  Something extraordinary happened as she moved forward.  With each new step towards what was surely her demise she grew more confident and ready to meet whatever came her way.  Grandmama was not afraid even though there were reasons to be.  Each step became larger and stronger.  Soon she would be upon the enemy and her fate would be sealed.  

Evil laughs at what they think is weak and small.  They underestimate most everything because they think so highly of themselves.  This was to be their undoing.  As grandmama came toward them there was a sense of unbelief.  Then the laughter started as they saw this small old woman come towards them.  Surely this aged woman wasn't going to try and fight them?  What foolishness!  So they sent the weakest link in to take care of her.  They could then go back to their camp and eat.  

"If God is for us, who can be against us?

He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, 

how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?"

~ Romans 8:31-32

The image that grandpapa saw as he was running toward the flames was that of his dear wife of so many years vanquishing each foe that came toward her.  She stood as a warrior queen slaying each and every enemy that came in reach of her sword.  It was like a dance.  The dance of war setting to rights what is wrong.  With each enemy slain the onslaught became more fierce.  Not just one would come forward to fight but eventually by two's and then three's.  Before grandpapa was able to reach her the whole company descended upon grandmama.  Finally, the old man reached his beloved.  He held her and shielded her from the coming onslaught.  In that moment of death for the both of them they became alive.  Their earthly bodies, now cut through with the enemies tools of destruction, started to shine.  Though they had died in their fight against evil they became alive to a new reality.   

The enemy shrank back in fear for the glory of God shone through His servants.  They ran away.  Back to the darkness from whence they had come from.  Back to the emptiness of their pitiful lives.  The enemy did not understand what had just happened.  They didn't want to know.  But they were afraid.  

"It is not death to fling aside this earthly dust

 and rise with strong and noble wing to live among the just.

It is not death to hear the key unlock the door.

That sets us free from mortal years to praise you evermore."

There was gladness and joy for the old man and woman as they relinquished their lives to the Lord that they had loved and served all through the years.  The one glimmer of thought before they moved on was that of their beloved granddaughter.  Even that was just a minor thought as they trusted the Holy One to do what was right and good for her.  And then they escaped into the place that they had longed for all their lives.  Praise be to God.  They were home!

Kareling waited and waited in the tree top.  Each moment she would tell herself that her grandpa was coming.  And each second after that moment realizing it was not to be.  The darkness of night was fading and it was time to flee to the Kingdom.  Looking down she saw the one horse that was her favorite.  It was as if he was waiting for her, knowing that she would need him.  Slowly, she descended from the top of the massive tree.  As she came closer and closer to the mighty horse raised his head and lowered it as if to agree and encourage the young girl.  "Yes, keep coming.  I'm here.  We will fly as the wind to safety."  

Finally, reaching the horse, the  young frightened girl, hugged him with fierceness.  As tears streamed down her cheeks her new friend on four legs kneeled down so that his ride would be able to climb onto his back.  Kareling barely had time to twist her fingers and hands into the horse's mane.  He knew where to go and what to do.  Turning and giving his young charge time to adjust he walked two steps.  The walk turned into a trot and then a gallop.  Sensing that she was up to it he went faster and faster until Kareling couldn't even see as all was a blur.  She closed her eyes and held on.  It was a race to the gates of the Kingdom.

*In the fight for good against evil sometimes good will win.  Other times it looks like evil prevails.  I always have to remind myself that this is my Father's world.  The battle really belongs to the Lord.  We might be victorious in one battle but, then again, we could easily die in another.  The point is this:  It is our privilege to be a soldier for God.  His will is ultimate and our will should always submit to His.  So whether we live or die the glory and outcome belongs to the Savior of the world.  Always look to Him and trust that He holds all things in His hands.  

"He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.  For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones  or dominions or rulers or authorities -- all things were created through him and for him.  And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together."   ~ Colossians 1:15-17

 

Liar, Liar ~ Pants on Fire

"Be sober, be vigilant;

because your adversary the devil

walks around like a roaring lion, 

seeking whom he may devour.

Resist him, steadfast in the faith,

knowing that the same sufferings

are experienced by

your brotherhood in the world."

~  1 Peter 5:8-9

He is a liar from the beginning.  Whispering in the ears of those who will listen and causing all kinds of pain and suffering.  I imagine him laughing at the tears of one who has lost something precious.  His whole intent is to cause heartache and despair and is never more happy than when he orchestrates the ruin of a life.  The tidal wave of his machinations are to be seen in every direction to where even the sky is filled with the smoke of hell.  It can cause hopelessness in the very strong of heart and bleed the weak dry.  

And yet . . . 

Where does fear come from and how does one battle against it?  For myself, I can become fearful when I see with my natural eye sorrow and suffering around me and experience hardships.  But, as a believer in the providence of God we are called to look beyond ourselves to something greater, bigger than any problem or experience that we see naturally.  In times of trouble this takes more will power than we are used to.  It isn't easy to stand up to the crowd who would cry, "Crucify Him" knowing that the possibility is that they would kill you too.  Much safer to stay at home, stay quiet, and maybe it will all go away.  

And yet . . . 

Be vigilant and watchful.  The evil one is very much alive and working.  Be aware and notice when evil is at work and do something.  Look on the circumstances with a sober judgment.  Call out injustice for what it is.   Don't be afraid of him (the devil) or any of the the plans he puts in place.  Your life is precious to the God who has saved you and nothing, NOTHING, can thwart God's plans for your life.  There is no virus, no groups of people, fires or debilitating smoke that can alter God's plan for his people.  You are part of an army called to move forward and not stand still.  Be an instrument of grace and mercy to those that are suffering even if that means you suffer too.  

Therefore . . .

Resist and stand firm against any ugliness you see or encounter.  Be wise as serpents but harmless as doves (Matthew 10:16).   We are called to be cunning (in the good sense) and persuasive with our words and our life so that others will see and hear what is right and worthy*.   Stay strong and affirm the faith that you profess because it is He who goes before you making a way.  Do not be afraid!  The evil one is strong but our God is stronger.  No weapons that are formed against us can prosper even if it looks like it does.

And finally . . .

Realize that our Savior loves you with an everlasting love and will not allow anything to happen to you that is not in His plan for you.  There is no valley so deep or river so high that can withstand the love of God for his people.  Stand firm in the love of God and you will do well and be well.  

"And after you have suffered a little while, 

the God of all grace, who has called you 

to his eternal glory in Christ,

will himself restore, confirm,

strengthen, and establish you.

~ 1 Peter 10:10

Then, in the end, all the glory will be given to the One who is worthy of all praise.  

"To him be the dominion forever and ever.

Amen."

~ 1 Peter 10:11

*Of course I understand that everyone's opinions are different but I assume right to come the authority of the Bible 

Crazy Town

"Some trust in chariots

and some in horses;

but we will remember the name 
of the Lord our God."

~ Psalm 20:7

So many years ago we went to a little church in Camas, WA.  I remember our worship time being very boisterous and loud.  We had guitars, the bass, and drums.  We had Leslie playing on the organ that my parents had donated.  The pastor would often break one or more of the strings on his guitar.  And then my cousin, Jim, would be raising his arms as he led our little group in song.  One of those songs was the above verse put to music.  I haven't thought of that song for so many years and it's interesting that it has suddenly popped into my head these last few days.

The world has seemed to go crazy.  I have never in my life time seen shelves empty at the store or people told that they need to limit how many can gather together (and I'm an old person now, ya'll) and self-isolate.  But this is what is happening.  Some people are scared and some are being irrational.  We, as human beings, seemed to want to blame someone and if we could find that someone there would be a mob lynching. 

And yet it is also times like this that we can experience the best of humanity.  People helping people and sacrificing their own well being for the sake of others.   This is what I look for and this is what I want to be.  I don't want to be afraid of something unseen and yet I don't want to do something stupid.  When I think about what Christians did in the past I am humbled and a bit embarrassed by my own actions or lack thereof.  We have aged parents living next door to us and we don't want to endanger them at all.  But there is a nagging thought lingering, "What could or should I be doing in light of whom I profess to believe in?"  Do I trust in horses (government) or do I trust in the living God who rules and reigns over all?

The fact of the matter is this ~ the government is fighting over what is the right thing to do themselves.  I don't want anyone to die anymore than the next person but really what is the answer.  I'm just glad that I don't have to be the one where "the buck stops here" as far a governmental authority goes.  I do believe, though, as part of this nation I have a moral obligation to give of myself for the benefit of said nation.

This brings me back to what can I do.  Certainly pray.  If anything I believe Christians are praying more and more. And this is a good thing.   I can self-isolate, Dan can work from home, we have enough food and we can pay our bills.  But what of those that can't?  What do I say to the mother that if she doesn't work she won't be able to pay her bills much less feed her children?  It won't be long before she is out on the street and her problem is so much more than the illness that is affecting the some (and this multiply times how many that live paycheck to paycheck?).

"For by him all things were created, 

in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, 

whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities --

all things were created through him and for him.

And he is before all things, 

and in him all thing hold together."

Colossians 1:16-17

God help us to see beyond ourselves and do what is right even if it has a cost.  I think of the doctor and nurses (our daughter is a nurse) who work tirelessly and could become sick themselves.  I think of the grocery stores that are staying open and those that work in them so that we can have food.  Our daughter Lydia sent me a picture a couple of days ago with a picture of herself in a Walmart vest.  She has gone to work where work is had but she is also being a service to the community.  My son is in law enforcement and his wife is a 911 dispatcher.  I see them running towards the battle and not hiding away.  So many more I could comment on that are taking up the arms they can and fighting the battle where they are.  It could be that my battle IS staying at home so that I might not infect others if I'm a carrier.  If that is the case, what can I do from home to be a benefit to others?  

This is my little thought for the day.  Remember the name of our God for He holds ALL things together.  Don't walk in fear but be bold in serving Him.  Encourage each other daily and refuse to be motivated by fear and discouragement.  Be strong for we belong to a mighty God who daily gives us what we need to move forward.  Take that next step that is put before you knowing that you are not alone.  After all, if God can part the sea for the Israelites in the Old Testament what do you suppose He can and will do for you and through you?"

"What is your comfort in life and death?

That I am not my own, but belong body and soul,

in life and death, to my Savior Jesus Christ.

He has fully paid for all my sins with his precious blood

and has set me free from the tyranny of the devil.

He also watches over me in such a way 

that not a hair can fall from my head

without the will of my Father in heaven:

in fact, all things work together for my salvation.

Because I belong to him, Christ,

by His Holy Spirit, assures me of eternal life

and wholeheartedly willing and ready

from now on to live for Him."

~ Q and A 1.  from the Heidelberg Catechism

Boldy go where He leads you and He will give you the strength you need for this day!

Stripped Bare

"Thou hast begun a good work in me

and canst alone continue and complete it.

. . . . . . . . 

If I am not right, set me right, keep me right;

And may I at last come to thy house in peace."

~ Valley of  Vision

I didn't used to think that being a Christian was what I have experienced to this moment.  We were told that Christian living was victorious.  No problem, we had weapons and nothing would come against us.  And yet . . . . . . life happened.  Not only have I had life altering medical stuff happen in the span of 20 years but all of my daughters also have experienced challenges.  So, what's the deal?  Do I just chalk it up to genetics (although one is not tied this way) or do I look deeper?  

This is a hard thing to consider.  I wonder if I would have been so eager to believe if I had known what was around the corner.  There wasn't a choice really and blessedly so as He called me and there was no turning from Him.  And yet, no one ever says, "Come to Jesus and you will experience tough things".  For sure it isn't a great selling point.  How many of us would choose a life of ease over a life of purpose and meaning.  I'm not so sure that the two are compatible.

God does give us the sun, the rain and that silver lining.  It's just hard to see the sun when all you see is it raining.  And when you are drenched with a downpour it chills you to the bone.  It takes a life time and the grace of God to be able to see the silver lining in the midst of bad weather.  And here I'm not just talking about our bodies betraying us but a host of other scenarios that try the heart and soul that causes us to be broken in spirit and body.

We have to realize that we are broken and in much need of Someone to help and fix us.  We have a desperate need.  It's not so much to be happy but to be wholly holy.  This is what God, in Christ, will do for us because we are incapable of doing it for ourselves.

"All God's plans have the mark of the cross on them,

and all His plans have death to self in them."

~ E.M. Bounds

Christ gave of himself in order for us to become wholly whole.  This is an immeasurable gift.  But it is hard most often for our human eyes to see it.  So, in kindness and because of His great love for us, the taking away and stripping begins.  It is never a case of punishment but of great love.  For what we need is to see Jesus and it is hard to see him when we are full of other things.

Please understand that I'm not saying that its wrong to be happy or enjoy life's simple pleasures.  But that life has so much more meaning through the lenses of Christ's sacrifice and resurrection power for us.  I can enjoy family so much more when seen that they are gifts of the Creator and not just for my own personal gratification.  The beauty of the earth takes on diverse delights because I can see that God's handiwork is so broad.  Music can fill the soul as it is an expression of the Divine.   On and on are examples of this ~ really too many to list.

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ!

According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again

to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading,

kept in heaven for you, 

who by God's power are being guarded through faith 

for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

In this you rejoice, though now for a little while,

if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials,

so that the tested genuineness  of your faith --

more precious than gold that perishes 

though it is tested by fire --

may be found to result in praise and glory and honor 

at the revelation of Jesus Christ.

~ 1 Peter 1:3-7

It is most important to see Jesus.  If that means a taking away (a stripping) of me God help me to bend the knee to it.  I know I won't like it, haven't liked it. But I am seeing, even in small bits and pieces, how necessary it is.  Ultimately, this is where true happiness is found.

Job understood this but not before he was stripped of everything.  His complaints to God were answered by whirlwind and four chapters in the book of Job.  Here is Job's response to God after him hearing God's response to his complaint:

"I know that you can do all things,

and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted .

. . . . . . .

Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand,

things too wonderful for me, which I did not know.

. . . . . . .

I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear,

but now my eyes sees you;

therefore I despise myself,

and repent in dust and ashes."

~ Job 42 2-6

And so, the stripping continues.  Maybe not so much in my own body (although getting older has its own challenges) but in those around me that I love.  The stripping takes on many forms but it is always painful.  I have to remind myself that not only is this too from God's hand but that it has a good purpose.    And so the knee is bended again to the perfect will of Jesus Christ knowing that His love is deeper, and His purposes greater, than anything that I or those I love are going through.  

The hope is to see God and in doing so we are free.