Eternal

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My husband and I have often had the experience of waking up with an inspirational, worship-type song going through our minds. We delight in this because it is almost as if our spirits are celebrating even while our bodies sleep. We feel we have a glimpse of the eternal when this happens.

Yesterday, the hint of the eternal was a song that has only three stanzas that are repeatedly sung, but it is so stirring! It is an Israel Houghton song (not sure if he wrote it, arranged it or just marvelously performs it) and it is called Alpha and Omega.

This sweet visitation was preceded by strong verse found the morning before, Isaiah 41:4, which reads: “Who has prepared and done this, calling and guiding the destinies of the generations of the nations from the beginning? I, the Lord, the first [existing before history began] and with the last [an ever present, unchanging God]; I am He.” (AMPC)

I’ll share some background of what is happening in Isaiah chapter 41. Israel is in captivity in Babylon, but God is encouraging the nation of Israel with the promise of a deliverer. My NIV study notes say that Isaiah foretold this approximately 150 years before the arrival of Cyrus, king of Persia. Not the most likely deliverer. An infinitely more holy deliverer would appear many years later, Jesus of Nazareth, to whom this verse also subtly refers.

When I looked up the Hebrew word for “first” a few definitions were-captain, excellent and principal. (Strong’s Concordance) I was caught by the “principal” definition and found that in our English dictionary it, of course, meant the head of a school, but it had other meanings too.

Principal also means: (a) a main roof rafter, (b) first player in an orchestra, which I had heard referred to before as first chair, and (c) the most significant part of an estate. This is how I applied this information: God is the principal, the first authority. God is the one overhead who holds everything together. He is first chair of the orchestra of life. God is the most significant in the estate of the trinity.

And, I found the most applicable definition (within this blog context) for “last” in the Hebrew is “uttermost”. The Lord is definitely uttermost.

Matthew Henry’s Commentary says about Isaiah 41:4, “…that he is infinite, eternal and unchangeable, that he governed the world from the beginning, and will until the end of time. He has reigned of old, and will reign forever; the counsels of his kingdom were of eternity, and the continuance of it will be to eternity.” (Volume IV, pg. 220)

When the Lord was bringing comfort to the nation of Israel, the promise also included future people and all nations who recognize that He is the First and the Last. Indeed, Jesus came as our deliverer, and will return for us.

Many have scorned the idea of the Lord’s return, and mockery will no doubt continue. But the return will happen, the Bible states and re-states the event all throughout, even if a bit more subtly alluded to in the Old Testament. In the New Testament it is boldly stated: “Behold, I am coming soon…I am the Alpha and Omega, the First and the Last (the Before all and at the End of all)”. Revelation 22:12(a)-13 AMPC

For those who confess a belief in God, I have a question. Have you ever told the Lord that? He likes to hear from us. It has been said that prayer, in its simplest form, is merely talking to God. Have you told the Lord that you believe in Him, that you want to understand better who He is, even that you want His interaction in your life?

This would be a good time to do that. The God who is the First and Last will hear and show His eternal character to you. Through the Bible, in quiet moments of listening and reflecting, while out enjoying the beauty of nature, even in how finely our bodies, minds, and spirits are designed to function in perfect balance.

We are created to sense the always constant stability of the Lord. “The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” Deuteronomy 33:27(a) NIV

One of my favorite quotes follows:

“God has set Eternity in our heart, and man’s infinite capacity cannot be filled or satisfied with the things of time and sense.” -F.B.Meyer

Let It Be Known

Have you ever been physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually exhausted all at the same time? I am not sure I have—mixtures of the four yes, but not all together at once.

The old time prophet Elijah knew this type of weariness. He was in the role from 875-848 B.C. and was known for his fiery style. Elijah knew God’s power yet he also learned his own weaknesses.

When I read again about Elijah and how he was used to victoriously rout the servants of Baal in 1 Kings 18, my spirit thrills. The competition of fire described in the chapter was not a competition at all. It was a sure thing, not as an opportunity for God to flex His muscles, but for the people to turn away from false gods and back to Him.

The narrative in 1 Kings 18:17-35 tells of the extensive preparation of the altar Elijah uses in the showdown. It details that he built the altar with stone, that a trench was dug around the altar, the wood for the obligatory sacrifice was retrieved and the bull prepared for offering. Also water in jugs was hauled to douse the altar and sacrifice. All done by Elijah apparently. We know he had a temporary servant with him, but no verification found by me that he helped Elijah with the huge task. He may have, others there may have, or God may have supernaturally provided the materials close by, but the scripture does not illuminate that fact. How many miles might Elijah have gone to get the wood and return? How many trips to fetch the water and lug the jars back? We don’t know.

It is told in the scripture that it was at least the better part of the day as far as the time of preparation and execution went. Discussing the Baal worshippers, it reads. . “…they called on the name of Baal from morning till noon, saying ‘ O, Baal, hear us!’” 1 Kings 18:26 (AMPC). And verse 29, “Midday passed, and they did the part of prophets until time for offering of evening sacrifice, but there was no voice, no answer, no one who paid attention.”

It was seemingly after this embarrassment that Elijah built the altar of the LORD, found the wood, put the cut pieces of bull on it, dug the trench and doused it all with water, verses 30-35 (AMPC).

Elijah had reason to be worn out physically after all of this effort and time. The other extensive fatigues follow when Queen Jezebel threatens Elijah’s life. He had humiliated her god, Baal, and by association, herself. Not to mention ordering the death of her prophets of Baal in attendance there. When she heard what had happened, she was out for revenge on Elijah. “…So let the gods do to me and more also, if I make not your life as the life of one of them by this time tomorrow.” 1 Kings 19:2.

“Then he was afraid, and arose and went for his life…and came and sat down under a lone broom or juniper tree, and asked that he might die. He said, ‘ It is enough, now O Lord, take away my life; for I am no better than my fathers.’” verses 3-4.

There was a certain amount of self-preservation at play in Elijah’s leaving the territory. One of my Bible translations says he traveled over 80 miles to put distance between he and Jezebel. God had not told Elijah to stay in Jezreel, so he was not wrong to leave.

In addition, Elijah was discouraged because he had hoped for a territory-wide conversion of all Israel, including King Arab and Queen Jezebel, according to footnotes in my NIV translation. It seems even prophets and large personalities also feel let down when things don’t turn out the way they hoped. Elijah was faithful to God but also very human. He was lonely and likely a little tired of the itinerant prophet’s lifestyle with no where permanent to call his own.

So God, in His goodness, first doctored Elijah’s physical needs. He made him a cake likely of bread, while Elijah slept, and provided a flask of water, verses 5-6. (If you’ve ever been severely dehydrated you know you are unable to function until you are re-hydrated.) Twice Elijah was tended by an angel, some translations capitalize Angel to mean the pre-earthly Son of Man Jesus himself. The Angel of the Lord came the second time, and touched him, and said, ‘Arise and eat, for the journey is too great for you.’” verse 7. Best bedside helper/restorer ever!

Next we find Elijah in a cave at Mount Horeb (aka Mount Sinai), and the Lord twice spoke to him, “What are you doing here Elijah?” (verses 9 & 13). What quizzical but tender moments! The Lord knew how discouraged he was—He knew that Elijah felt like a failure, because Israel rejected their God. Twice Elijah answers God by saying, “ I have been very zealous for the Lord God of hosts; for the Israelites have forsaken your covenant” and “ I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.” verses 10, 14

The intensity of the commitment was getting to Elijah—the cost seemed too high and he did not think he could do it anymore. He wanted God to take him home. Sound familiar? Any event(s) in your life that causes you to feel this way?

Then hang on—the Lord brings encouragement to Elijah and Jesus will bring us encouragement too. Elijah is told, “Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him.” verse 18 (NIV)

Ah, the whisper of remnant. It is a theme carried throughout the Bible. God will have his remnant, and what a blessed people they will be, from all places scattered over the earth. Remnant continues in our world. Paul quotes the scripture of the seven thousand knees not bowing to Baal and includes this nugget—“So too, at the present time there is a remnant chosen by grace.” Romans 11:2-5 (NIV) It was true in Elijah’s time, in the New Testament church time, and is still true today!

Want more encouragement? Read Isaiah 40:28, the perfect contrast between God who is untouched by weariness and ourselves, who regularly experience the malady. And read Matthew 11:28, about Jesus our Advocate, the Son of Man who did feel exhaustion so he can comfort us with understanding. The Lord will bring us through, but we must stay focused.

***J. C. Ryle was an English Anglican bishop who lived from 1816-1900. He says the following, slightly paraphrased for length and current language.

QUOTE: “Christianity will cost the love of ease…daily watching and standing on guard like a soldier on enemy’s ground…taking heed to behavior every hour of the day, in every company and in every place, in public as well as in private, among strangers as well as at home…being careful, being diligent.” from the Cost of Being a True Christian

Soundings, Sonar and Spirit

Old photographs of sail-festooned schooners have always thrilled me. They are beautiful. I would love to tour a restored, or much more likely recreated 1800 or 1900’s ship, but for now that is on my bucket list. I am half convinced that an ancestor of mine must have been a ship captain, and that is why old ships fascinate me-it must be in my bloodline.

I have been researching some of the navigational methods of old ships and found some interesting parallels to our spiritual life.

In prior navigational times, the earliest techniques for measuring ocean depth was a sounding, taken with a lead line with a plummet, or heavy ball of lead on the end. Marks were tied securely along the length of the line every few fathoms, with leather strips or pieces of rope, so they could be read. This would be cast off the side of the ship to get either an accurate or approximate depth measurement of the ocean. If the depth was exactly at the fathom mark, the number was read “by the mark”. If between marks on the sounding line, it was registered “by the deep”.

The Holy Spirit still sounds in us to measure our intricate depths. When a hurtful habit runs deep or when a bad attitude showcases our shallowness, that same Spirit will reveal it to us.

1 Corinthians 2:10 says in part; “…the Holy Spirit searches diligently, exploring and examining everything, even sounding the profound and bottomless things of God- the divine counsels and things hidden and beyond man’s scrutiny.” (AMPC) Paul writes with nautical flavor here-something very profound and something that we need to hear. We cannot know ourselves completely, but we can learn what God knows about us, (the good, the bad and ugly) and still loves us without reserve. He will make all of it right.

We can measure our depths/shallows to some degree by reading 1 Corinthians 13, commonly called the love chapter. I cannot get past the first verse without feeling at a loss in my own strength. “If I could speak all the languages of earth and of angels, but didn’t love others, I would only be a noisy gong or clanging symbol.” (NLT) I wonder how many times I have been nothing but shallowness and clamor in communication with people. But God knows all things, and I can trust Him to speak in me and through me.

Beyond the days of sailing schooners came a man named Herbert Grove Dorsey, documenting newer technology. He created the first Fathometer in 1928. It used the principles of echo sounding and was the precursor to our sonar used today.

Next I was interested to read about the newer uses of sonar in fishing, of which I had no idea, and several things stood out.

One important consideration, it seems, is choosing the best location for the sonar device on your boat before you fish. Otherwise, interference with other boats or nearby structures may skew your results.

Another suggestion was to set the sensitivity setting on the highest mark when out in deeper water, to get the most detail of what is below you and around you under the water.

The view setting has a direct impact as well. This guide will allow you to set a specific depth reading where you are, to see your targets more clearly.

In applying the above physical sonar fishing practice to the idea of spiritual sonar practice, my conclusions were these.

It is encouraging that spirit sonar is functioning in me, although I may need to guard against interference. I’m comforted that spirit sonar always works at peak sensitivity, although I may need to quiet myself to hear it. I rejoice that spirit sonar is right where it needs to be in me because of grace. I just pray that in my own limitations I don’t miss the target directive. Do you see the parallel?

It is a limitless wonder to me to think that the Spirit measures everything accurately by-the-mark. I can be brave and so can you.

In the letter to the Ephesian church, Paul spoke of seeking for and understanding the depth of God. “I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” Ephesians 3:17(b)-19. (NIV)

Amen, for all of us!

The Art of Seeking

Searching and seeking are skills to be learned and developed. In the important areas in life, and even in the not so important, every day kind of things. What to seek and how to seek it.

In the not so important category, when I temporarily misplace an item, such as keys, phone, glasses-I just retrace my steps and the misplaced turns up. I have learned that the lost will be found, so I don’t panic.

Almost daily, but certainly weekly, I play what I call The Searching Game. It basically has one rule: to answer the question of why, where or what. Often the scenario includes my entering a room and standing there for a moment, with the question, “Why did I come in here?” Or if I am driving, the query is “Why am I going in this direction?”

Another level of The Searching Game is “Where is that other sock?” or it’s cousin, “Where is that lid?” In the laundry room or the kitchen, this level is common to all mankind.

Perhaps the most challenging of levels is the “What did I do with that?” question. This could cover something you just had in your hand thirty seconds ago, or something you put away until later so you wouldn’t forget it.

A much more serious issue will arise at some point in all of our lives. It is the “What, or maybe whom, am I seeking?” question. In simpler language, it may break down to “What is the reason for searching at all?”

Within moments the previously mentioned queries from The Searching Game will be found or remembered—but the last question, the much more serious one, takes longer to discover.

In the Bible, Abraham sought a country after leaving his own, told about in Genesis 12 and referred to in Hebrews, “For he was looking forward to the city with foundations whose architect and builder is God.” (Hebrews 11:10) Solomon sought from God “wisdom and knowledge that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?” (2 Chronicles 1:10). King Hezekiah was told he would die and he sought God in tears and was told, “I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will heal you. I will add fifteen years to your life.” (2 Kings 20:5-6)

And there are other examples. Peter sought repentance after denying Jesus, before the crucifixion, “The Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: ‘Before the cock crows today, you will disown me three times.’ And he (Peter) went out and wept bitterly.” (Luke 22:61-62). Peter also sought reassurance through a conversation with the resurrected Jesus later, when he was asked if he loved Jesus. “The third time he said to him, ‘Simon, son of John, do you love me?’ Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, ‘Do you love me?’ He said, ‘Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you’” (John 21:17) Jesus replies, “Feed my sheep.”

This conversation also gave Peter instruction on being a shepherd to the church after Jesus ascended to heaven. So Peter likely was not only seeking reassurance, and Jesus knew and gave him direction for his future as well. In essence, I think Jesus was telling Peter, “Yes, you blew it, but I am not done working in your life yet and you have work to do.”

Paul sought after all spiritual things of God. Following his conversion, Paul was all out for God. He understood his need to surrender everything to God and encouraged others to, “Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things.” (Colossians 3:2) and again, “Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires, but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.” (Romans 8:5)

All these people are great examples of seeking the best things. It takes time and effort to search for God, the What and Who of the equation. But oh, is He worth it! Keep on seeking.

Instructions for Life

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My youngest son, Jeff, was always a pretty good follower of rules. We tried to instill in both of our children an understanding of why rules and order were necessary. One day, Jeff went over to an elementary school friend’s house to play and I reminded him to be polite. I later learned upon arrival at his destination, Jeff asked his friend’s mother, “What are the house rules?” She was a bit taken by surprise and replied, “Well, I don’t know. What are your house rules?” And Jeff correctly recited, “No running or throwing in the house, and no slamming doors.” Her response, “Those are good rules, those are our rules too.”

Directives are found in all areas of life—they serve to instruct and guide us. I can think of several examples, such as the military. What a mess it would be without discipline or rules in our military. It could never successfully function without them. If soldiers are given an order, they had better follow it or they and potentially all around them would be in dangerously deep doo-doo. All kind of operatives or maneuvers would be at risk without directives.

In most office environments there is a certain conduct expected by employees. It is understood that it is not productive if you are talking constantly, or not responding to your employers emails, or passing off your work responsibilities to others. In one of the law offices where I worked, there was a button on the phone beside each attorney’s extension, and if it was lit, they did not want to be disturbed. Those who answered phones knew to take a message and forward it.

Those in the education field know often there are pages and pages of directives that challenge both administrators and educators. They have to do their best to understand and comply.

Sometimes our intellect overshadows common sense and practicality. We can be so enamored in the idea of an idea, that we fail to reason if it will actually work. This can occur in any arena in life—from education to business to fixing something broken at home. What looks good on paper isn’t always, as the saying goes.

Goals, in themselves, are usually good—they help us focus. In the Bible there are many godly instructions given to us for our peace and welfare. These are helpful to all who read them and apply them.

In the second letter written by Peter, he is primarily addressing how to handle incorrect ideas and teachings creeping in to the early church. Peter encourages the believers to stay the course, and remember the truth they were taught by the Lord and his anointed disciples. “His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence…” 2 Peter 1:3 (ESV) Jesus has given us all the godly things we need to follow after, if we first acknowledge him.

Do you sometimes feel as if you don’t know what to believe in our head-spinning world? Believe the Bible. It is not out dated—it has survived for thousands of years and will survive yet. It is pertinent and applicable to all of life’s issues that try to confuse us.

Continuing in 2 Peter 1:4, Peter explains further what Jesus has actually given us and what happens with those promises. “…which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire.” (ESV)

It is amazing to think we can have anything at all divine living in us, if we are acutely aware of our weaknesses. But the promise is absolutely true if we know him. We are really “partakers of the divine nature.”

Written within only a few short years of the previously quoted missive in 2 Peter, is Paul’s first letter to Timothy. Paul warns against false teaching here also. Do you sense a trend? Apparently, this was as rampant a problem as it is these days. 1 Timothy 4:7-8 reads: “Have nothing to do with irreverent, silly myths. Rather train yourself for godliness, for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and the life to come.” (ESV)

I like that the verse says to avoid “silly” myths but also includes “irreverent” in that sentence as well. It would be too easy to consider ANY idea as silly, (it’s very subjective), but including irreverent narrows it down. Irreverent means disrespectful but also godless. Godless—without God. I certainly don’t want to be in that category, nor embrace any philosophy in that category.

The last scripture of this trio recently brought to my attention, is 2 Timothy 3:13-14. It is so affirming and brings comfort, as I imagine it has for all people who have seen deception everywhere. Paul writes to Timothy that while “evil people and imposters will go on from bad to worse…” he tells Timothy to “continue in what you have learned and firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it..” Paul also refers to the sacred writings that Timothy was soundly taught from youth, those of “which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.”

As this beloved earth of ours slows in its turning, as deception increases, as our departure to Home grows closer, cling to the Bible’s directives.

The Bible is the only rock solid source for instruction and life choices. Don’t limit yourself to reading it, devour it. Don’t only learn it, apply it. Live it, and watch lives change all around you.

QUOTE: “God never made a promise that was too good to be true.” -Dwight L. Moody

Learning Curve

We all understand the concept of the learning curve, and we participate in assessments to determine where we are on that curve daily, monthly and yearly. The term assessment is not only used in the educational area, as in how much we know, but in the most practical things of life.

All of us have to determine if we have enough time to get from point A to point B when we are driving, if we should purchase that item now or wait until next month, what groceries we need to replace in the pantry because stocks are low, or how we are doing in our health maintenance when attending regular check ups at the doctors office.

In the spiritual sense as well, we assess and learn. There is a learning curve to spiritual growth too.

I was reading about John the Baptist recently and noticed how some of his education unfolded. The first chapter of the gospel of John describes the Baptist’s knowledge of his calling to be a “voice of one shouting in the desert” to “prepare the way of the Lord” by preaching repentance and water baptism. (John 1:23)

The gospels weave together the Baptist’s story, because the gospel of Matthew confirms his calling in chapter 3:1-3, and how people responded to the Baptist “..Jerusalem and all Judea and all the country round about the Jordan went out to him, and they were baptized in the Jordan..” (3:5-6).

When the time came for the Baptist to baptize Jesus, he protested. John said to Jesus, “…It is I who have need to baptized by You, and do You come to me?” (Mt. 3:14) Paraphrased, Jesus tells John it has to be this way, or, “this is the fitting way for [both of] us to fulfill all righteousness…”(vs. 15) Amplified Bible.

It is obvious that John had at least some understanding of who Jesus was, they were somehow family-Jesus’ mother and the Baptist’s mother described as “relatives” (Luke 1:36) NIV. But the Baptist’s comprehension grew once the water baptism of Jesus was accomplished.

In the gospel of John 1:33-34, the Baptist states: “And I did not know Him nor recognize Him; but He Who sent me to baptize in (with) water said to me, ‘Upon whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, that One is He Who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ And I have seen [that happen]-I actually did see it-and my testimony is that this is the Son of God.” Amplified Bible

Later, when John had been thrown in prison, he went through another time of growth, this time reassessing if he still believed Jesus was the Son of God. It is not clear in the gospels how long John the Baptist was in prison but during that time he surely struggled with fear. Threats of death would have hung over his head. Perhaps the jailers ridiculed him and ridiculed Jesus, also planting even more seeds of bitterness and doubt in John.

At any rate, John began to question his faith, asking some of his baptized visitors to ask Jesus something for him. “So the men came to Jesus, and said, John the Baptist sent us to You to ask, ‘Are You He Who is to come, or shall we (continue to) look for another?’” Luke 7:20. Jesus was waist deep in healing and delivering crowds of people at that time, yet he showed both truth and compassion in his answer. Jesus knew his followers still struggled with their emotions at times. So he replied to them, “Go and tell John what you have seen and heard…And blessed—happy [with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation apart from outward conditions] and to be envied—is he who takes no offense in Me and who is not hurt or resentful or annoyed or repelled or made to stumble, [whatever may occur].’” Luke 7:22(a)-23 Amplified Bible

This makes me reflect on times in my life when I knew the circumstances were out of my hands. Times when there was nothing I could do to change the event unfolding or already done. That feeling tends to carry you to the One Who is unlimited in power, and you lay the fears and concerns at His feet.

And you say, even if white-knuckled and under your breath, “Yet I am not ashamed, because I know whom I have believed and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him for that day.” 2 Timothy 1:12 NIV

QUOTE: “We are twice armed if we fight with faith.” Plato

Source of Strength

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My parents were great examples of choosing the best things in life, and they chose to trust God. Certainly in arenas they could not control at all, but even in everyday situations.

There are several scriptures that I remember them talking about while in my youth. One of those is Psalm 20:7 which reads, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” (This was also set to music in some church circles, and the tune runs through my head even now.) The Amplified Bible translation of this scripture adds, “Some trust in and boast of…”.

The second half of the above verse states confidently Who would be the source of trust of King David and the people of his kingdom. My understanding began to be fleshed out a bit as I thought of all the substitutes that can be put in the place of God. Not a new concept but one that graciously deepens and grows with me as I follow my Savior.

By no means the end of possibilities, here are a few: 1. Careers/Success/Money—the security of these can quickly change. 2. Power/Prestige in community—someone starts a rumor, it spreads, and power and prestige is toast. 3. Physical health/Beauty/Strength—can be lost, it certainly declines with age. 4. Talent/Abilities—for each talent or ability we have, someone else has more. 5. Intellect—if out of balance, leaves little if any room for God. 6. People/Relationships—they change. To the known phrase, “The only sure thing is death and taxes”, I would add change. I confess I have gotten each of these areas out of line in my life at various times.

As a reference in the Old Testament story, Samson did not completely figure out this lesson. (Judges 13-16) Samson was given great strength by God but it seems to have been his reliance, or his go-to instead of the Lord himself. Samson was born a Nazarite, set apart to God for a specific reason to fulfill Bible prophecy. But Samson misused his gifts for personal gain and did not end up delivering his people from Philistine influence and bondage as intended, and in many ways collaborated with them. Toward the end of his days his physical strength was taken away, he was blinded and imprisoned by the Philistines. Samson did show some change of mind toward God and asked Him “to strengthen him just once more” while in the temple and then brought it down on all their heads. In my Bible footnotes however, (NIV) it opines Samson did this for revenge on the loss of his eyes, rather than for the glory of God. Samson’s position, physical prowess and strength did not save him.

Another example is that of Pharaoh in the time of deliverance of the Hebrews in Exodus. (Chapters 5-13) Pharaoh’s trust was in his power, position, wealth and intellect, and that did not turn out so great for him. In the well known story of Moses and the Israelites freedom from Egypt, Pharaoh resisted the inevitable release of the slaves. He scoffed at the power of God and refused to surrender, and even after the Hebrews left Egypt Pharaoh pursued them thinking his chariots and horses would get them back. In chapter 14 it says Pharaoh “..had his chariot made ready and took his army with him. He took six hundred of the best chariots, along with all the other of the chariots of Egypt, with officers over all of them.” (vs. 6&7) “The Egyptians-all of Pharaoh’s horses and chariots, horsemen and troops-pursued the Israelites and overtook them as they camped by the sea..” (vs. 9) But the great God that Pharaoh still did not acknowledge, after all the signs of God’s power he saw in Egypt, had a plan. The same water that the power of God parted for his people to escape came back and drowned all of Pharaoh’s army. “The water flowed back and covered the chariots and horsemen-the entire army of Pharaoh that had followed the Israelites into the sea. Not one of them survived.” That event built the Hebrews faith in God in a big way. Pharaoh’s intellect was not above God. All that Pharaoh had—his wealth, power and prestige did not save him.

So many other examples of people who had skewed or stubborn ideals fill the Bible. I would also say many today are off track with where the true source of confidence and security lies. What might you be falsely trusting in to save you? Do we have our Source in the right place?

In the New Testament, Paul encourages Timothy to follow God by godliness. He says, “…train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come…that we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all men, and especially those who believe.” (1 Timothy 4:7,8 & 9) Also 6:17 says, “As for the rich of the world, charge them not to be proud and arrogant and contemptuous of others, not to set their hopes on uncertain riches but on God, Who richly and ceaselessly provides us with everything for [our] enjoyment”

I share what I myself need constant reminding of—that the only true Source of strength, hope and light is God alone!

QUOTE: “Relying on God has to start all over again every day as if nothing had yet been done.”-C.S.Lewis

The Divine Draw

In thinking about the Christmas story this year, what impacted me was how God draws us to him. How personally he makes an effort to reach us in a way that each of us can hear and see him.

The shepherds described in Luke 2 were very humble people, not highly thought of by the masses, but simple day-to-day people. Earning likely just enough to get by, not influential nor powerful. Yet God used his power, his angels, to convey the message of the Christ child’s birth to the shepherds. The single angel tells them the good news, that they should “not be afraid”, (Luke 2:9-11) and that “you will find after searching, a Baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.” Amplified Bible translation, (vs. 12).

First the angel indicated they could find the newborn Savior, being given the general vicinity, but that it would require a little searching. We still need to search, listen and look for the Savior-but he is discoverable!

Also the emphasis was not just on any baby, but the Baby with a capital letter. This child was to be “the Messiah, the Lord!” (vs. 11)

Secondly, what God brought to manifest in front of the shepherds eyes was a whole group of angels. “Then suddenly there appeared with the angel an army of the troops of heaven—a heavenly knighthood—praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest’…” (vs. 13)

Can you imagine what that display of power did for the shepherds who had no power? How completely God knows how to reach us where we are.

In contrast, there were the Magi, men who were notable and admired as learned men of science and medicine. The Lord got their attention through the appearance of an unusual star in the sky. They were fascinated by the constellations and the study of them.

The Magi would have known some Bible prophecy, their long ago Babylonian ancestors having passed it down, along with their knowledge of science and the skies. The star drew them—but the wise men knew they would find the Christ child. They came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is He Who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the east at its rising, and have come to worship Him.” (Matthew 2:2) Amplified

I noticed this time around the description of “His” star instead of some translations reading his or the star. Another capital letter defining the importance. In the Bible, a capital usually means to pay a little more attention.

I wondered at and admired the determination of the Magi on camels, to pursue and find the Lord. I whine if the car ride gets a little too long! The Magi’s trip took many months and it’s estimated that by the time they got to Jerusalem, Jesus was a toddler nearing the age of two years old. The wise men and King Herod had some talks about this new king but their motives were entirely different as to the outcome.

“Then Herod sent for the wise men [astrologers] secretly, and accurately to the last point ascertained from them the time of the appearing of the star—that is, how long the star had made itself visible since its rising in the East.” (vs. 7) It was decided it had been about two full years by that time, and Herod planned, with stealthiness, to destroy the usurper Jewish king if he could.

The Magi knew nothing of that plan initially, but did not return to their home via Jerusalem after seeing Jesus because of a divinely sent dream warning them not to. (vs.12)

“Then Herod…sent and put to death all the male children in Bethlehem two years old or under, reckoning according to the date which he had investigated diligently and learned exactly from the wise men.” (vs. 16)

But God had everything under control regarding the young Messiah’s life, and Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, had been told in yet another dream to flee to Egypt for a while for safety. Nothing would or will stop God’s divine plan for the world through Jesus.

The shepherds and the wise men were rewarded in their listening and searching for the Savior. We will be too if we persist in seeking Him.

“Where can I go from Your Spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence? If I take the wings of the dawn, If I dwell in the remotest part of the sea, Even there Your hand will lead me, And Your right hand will lay hold of me.” (Psalm 139:7,9-10) New American Standard translation

No matter where we go in life, where we domicile, no matter the place we might have to leave, the spirit of God is drawing us to himself. The question is, will we follow?

Quote: “Wise men still seek Him.”-unknown

Full Circle Grace

I feel the gift of grace at Christmas more deeply this year. This true gift, bestowed on us by the birth of Jesus, was a beautiful beginning and our introduction to who God really is. God is the eternal Giver of His son, that eternal gift in himself.

Those who know me best know that a wreath has always been an important detail for me to display at Christmas time. It is a symbol of eternity, that unbroken circle of greenery, and I love the symbolism.

I see grace as unbroken and full-circle too, straight from heaven in the form of a little baby. Jesus was sent with total power and peace because he carried inside him the heart of God. Jesus brought reconciliation with him, to be shown and culminated thirty three years later. On the cross Jesus took our sin and darkness and made a way for all who believe. As God’s own heart beat within his chest, Jesus wanted us to know that same beating heart of God and His love.

I thought about all the supernatural things Jesus accomplished during his years on earth to open eyes to God. I thought about all he went through during his crucifixion-the beating, the insults, the ridicule, the nails and the crown of thorns.

I decided to look up crown to see what I might be missing here. Other definitions for crown in the dictionary among several are chaplet, diadem or, you guessed it, wreath. Early examples of wreaths in Roman times were made of woven ivy, leaves, flowers or branches. In history, wreaths were only worn on the head of royalty or people of high esteem, or awarded for accomplishments. The Greek games come to mind. I wonder if the soldiers made this connection when they were crucifying Jesus.

Maybe the soldiers only saw the opportunity to mock Jesus. They obviously did not know who he was, or maybe chose to ignore it because they had a job to do. But Jesus knew that he was eternal, and that he would have an imperishable crown upon his resurrection and return to his Father. Who was really in the role of victor in this scenario?

I’m so delighted by the symmetry of God. He is the Grace-Giver, Jesus is the Gift, the wreath is the symbol: full-circle, eternal and complete.

Have a Christmas holiday that echoes the same, and be blessed!

QUOTE: “Oh, like a wreath let Christmas mirth today encircle all the earth, And bind the nations with the love that Jesus brought from heaven above.”-Maud Lindsey

Gathering Place

Music holds such emotion in our hearts and spirits. There are times when we are so moved by it that we can hardly sing at all. Our eyes tear up and our throats become suddenly too narrow for any sound. There is a song, psalm or hymn for every feeling experienced by human beings, I believe. Some help us to get through difficulties and some only cause us to wallow in our losses. Healthy versus unhealthy.

If asked, most people would say they were music lovers, but favorite genres among us vary considerably. Every style of music has its basic components and they are used with regularity. The tempo, the rhythm, even note structure and cadence are familiar to its fans. This is true of jazz, classical, country, blues, rap or hip hop, or any other type you hear.

Hymns were not really on my radar for the first part of my life. I’d heard them of course, just found them a bit predictable and I did not find them particularly enjoyable at that time. In the last twenty years my opinion has changed.

Hymns have a basic music structure but there are some with varying meters and scores, not like all the others. Some melodies I really like, some not so much-but being a connoisseur of words, I find the word choices in hymns very affirming to my faith.

I came across Come Ye Thankful People, Come recently and gave it a listen. This is commonly known and sung in some churches during Thanksgiving season. There were parts that rang a bell but perhaps I had just forgotten over the years.

Written by Henry Alford, an Englishman, theologian, leader and writer during the mid 1800’s, the hymn shows his personal faith and bolsters mine. A statement of faith was inscribed in his Bible at the age of sixteen which read: “I do this day, as in the presence of God and my own soul, renew my covenant with God and solemnly determine henceforth to become His, and to do His work as far as in me lies.”

Obviously raised to believe in God, he “renews his covenant” but he also determines henceforth “to become His” because something was evidentially missing from his life before. Some of us have felt that and have made a definite statement of commitment in the same way.

It often takes the Lord awhile to accomplish the entire plan for our lives, but it does unfold just as it did for Henry Alford, including up to, until, and after he wrote this hymn.

The hymn has four stanzas, I share two of the gems with you here:

“All the world is God’s own field, fruit unto His praise to yield; Wheat and tares together sown, unto joy or sorrow grown; First the blade and then the ear, then the full corn shall appear; Lord of harvest grant that we wholesome grain and pure may be.”

“For the Lord our God shall come, and shall take the harvest home; From His field shall in that day, all offenses purge away; Give His angels charge at last, in the fire the tares to cast; But the fruitful ears to store in His garner evermore.”

The word garner means storehouse, or if more easily understood, gathering place. We can find the statement, Gather, on wall plaques and on desktops across our country most likely-it has been a popular design option in the last few years.

So, how to apply? I encourage you, in your gathering places this Thanksgiving, to enjoy family and friends, listen to some good music and appreciate good food, but MOST of all, “gather” personally for a time with the Lord this season. He is sweetly waiting and you won’t be disappointed!

QUOTE: “Hymns are companions for life travelers. Hymns can carry you into the future.” -Andy Griffith