The Time of ANTICIPATION and HOPE
This week we'll light the first purple candle, the Prophecy candle, and celebrate Christ with anticipation and hope.
Just as a child waits expectantly for the "big" day, so our hearts yearn for His Coming.
The scriptures reveal to us that this has been the plan, all along. God would become flesh and dwell among us!
Just as those of long ago waited in anticipation for the coming of the Christ Child, we celebrate His birth while looking beyond it to His glorious reappearing. And we prepare our hearts and minds for His return.
"Take heed, watch; for you do not know when the time will come." (Mark 13:33)
From the Old Testament to the New Testament and back again, the great event was recorded.
"O house of Jacob, come ye, and let us walk in the light of the Lord." (Isaiah 2:5)
"The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light; they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined." (Isaiah 9:2)
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder; and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." (Isaiah 9:6-7)
"Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, 'I am the light of the world: He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.'" (John 8:12)
"Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee." (Isaiah 60:1)
"Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2) In my Father's house are many mansions: (if it were not so, I would have told you). I go to prepare a place for you. 3) And if I go and prepare a place for you; I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." (John 14:1-3)
"...'Surely I come quickly'...Even so, come, Lord Jesus. (Revelation 22:20)
There are many other passages that you might enjoy studying this week:
Matthew 24:37-44, I Thessalonians 4:14-18, John 1:1-14, and I Thessalonians 5:1-6.
Now is the time to dig out your Christmas CDs. Listen to "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" and think about the exciting times that we live in today, knowing that Christ could return at any moment! Are you ready?
Think about the little things you do for a long overdue visit with a precious friend. When you learn that they are coming, you clear the calendar and make time for them. You savor every moment, and sigh when they must leave. The best part of His return is, even though we have waited a long time, this time He's not leaving us behind. No teary goodbyes for us. We're going with HIM!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Monday, November 28, 2011
ADVENT
"ADVENT," The beginning of an adventure!
Perhaps you have noticed that Christmas is coming sooner and sooner every year. This year the decorations were on display before Halloween! No wonder we get so frustrated and tired of the whole thing. Deep inside we are yearning for a spiritual holiday. And no wonder that we do, after all, it was God who "set eternity in our hearts." He is always interested in our spiritual posture, temperature, and general good health. Maybe Advent is just what you need to redirect your focus on the living Savior this season.
You may believe that you don't know much about Advent. But, that's probably not true! You may know more than you think. For example, have you seen or used an Advent calendar in your home during the Christmas season? If so, what was the purpose of the calendar? Most likely, it was to 'count down' the days to a climax...Christmas day.
The Church's celebration of Advent dates back to the 4th century A.D. when it lasted six weeks. Sometime in the 6th century A.D. it was established to include the four Sundays prior to Christmas day. Subsequently, it begins on the Sunday nearest to November 30th, and continues through Christmas day. It all leads up to the most glorious celebration of all...our Savior's birth.
Consider the meaning of the word, advent. Other than its strictly religious sense (coming of Christ), it means "coming arrival" [example: the advent of Spring]. The original word is from the Latin for "to come to." Compare advent with its cousin, adventure, which means "an exciting or remarkable experience." Now that makes sense! Shouldn't our walk with God and our quest to be conformed to the image of His dear Son be an exciting and remarkable experience every day of our lives? If you have ever wanted more, especially at Christmas, you need to prayerfully consider adding the Advent celebration to your Christmas traditions. Right now, you may be thinking, "Oh, great! Just what I don't need: one more thing to squeeze in between now and the end of the year." But, if the Holy Spirit directs you, you will be eager to start the adventure!
Advent is rich in spiritual (all scriptural) symbolism. If you don't like symbolism, then you need to start ignoring every rainbow in the sky. God works through symbolism, and we can learn much from it.
First, let us consider the Advent Wreath. Traditionally, it is a circle. The circle symbolizes God's eternal plan---from our birth to our rebirth to eternity in His presence, a never-ending circle of love. The wreath is dressed with evergreens. They symbolize God's undying love for us.
Within the wreath, the four candles are placed. The light of each candle represents Jesus, the light of the world. Nowadays, the four candles are purple (the color of royalty---depicting the reverence due the King of Kings.) Some churches use royal blue (another "royal" color) candles. However, from the earliest times, three purple and one pink candle have been used. I prefer this arrangement for several reasons. First, I like the tradition of it. But, even more importantly, the strange arrangement, of necessity, begs for an explanation. Just sitting there quietly, they become the topic of conversation, and behold! the doors swing open for witnessing opportunities. With that in mind, let's continue to examine the meaning of each separate candle.
The first week of Advent is commonly called the time of "Anticipation or Hope." The candle of the first week is purple. We are anticipating the arrival of the King of Kings. He is heavenly royalty personified. The first candle is referred to as the "Prophecy" candle. The studies (individual, family, or group) that the first week of Advent revolve around concern the prophecies that the King would come. But, Advent takes you one step farther. You never stop with the coming of the infant child king; you pause long enough to absorb the wonder of the virgin birth, God incarnate. Then, you examine the King's coming into your own heart. But, that's still not all! Finally, you look forward, with joyful ANTICIPATION, to the return of the KING! What a way to refocus on the season of seasons! It may be noted that some groups refer to the first candle as the "Hope" candle. What you prefer to call it is your decision. The name is not as important as the reality. The reality must be that you not only believe that He came once, but that He's coming again and you're looking forward to it!
The second week of Advent is called the time of "Preparation." The second candle is also purple. (The second candle is usually referred to as the "Bethlehem" candle.) As Bethlehem was foretold to be the place chosen to prepare for the coming King, we were admonished, ourselves, by John the Baptist, to "prepare [ye] the way of the Lord." During the second week of Advent, we focus on the preparations that need to be made daily to receive a King into our very lives. (On the second Sunday, you re-light the Prophecy candle first, and then light the Bethlehem candle.)
The third week of Advent is called the time of "Joy." The third candle is the pink one. It is traditionally pink (rose-colored) to signify that Jesus is the Rose of Sharon. (It is often called the "Shepherd's" candle.) After all, the good news came to the shepherds and they left all and came with great joy to find their Shepherd King. The symbolism is so very rich here. God became flesh and presented Himself to the lowliest of society. What does he have to do today, in our lives, to restore such heartfelt joy among us? Allow His Holy Spirit to guide you as you encounter fresh joy "unspeakable, and full of glory." (On the third Sunday, you re-light the Prophecy and Bethlehem candles and then light the Shepherd's candle.)
The final week of Advent is called the time of "Peace." The fourth candle is the last purple candle, (commonly called the "Angel's" candle.) And of course, the angels in heaven rejoiced that earth had "received her King." Peace was born that day, on earth, and every man is able to be at peace with God. Study His Word, let it rise up in you, and guide you into perfect peace this blessed season. (This final Sunday you will re-light the Prophecy candle, the Bethlehem candle, the Shepherd's candle, and then finally, you will light the last one, the Angel's candle.)
There remains a single, white candle in the center of the wreath. This is the "Christ" candle, and it represents His purity. You may light it on Christmas eve and again on Christmas day to symbolize the light of the world!
Have you ever arrived someplace only to discover that you "just missed" a beloved friend or family member? That's what Advent is all about. We may have missed His first coming, but He has come into our own lives, and indeed, He's coming again to take us home. Our hearts are filled with peace and reconciliation while we wait, hopefully anticipating the love of God, and His eminent return to restore us into His family forever. If that isn't reason enough to lift Him up daily, and especially at Christmas, then I don't know what is.
LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN!!!
Perhaps you have noticed that Christmas is coming sooner and sooner every year. This year the decorations were on display before Halloween! No wonder we get so frustrated and tired of the whole thing. Deep inside we are yearning for a spiritual holiday. And no wonder that we do, after all, it was God who "set eternity in our hearts." He is always interested in our spiritual posture, temperature, and general good health. Maybe Advent is just what you need to redirect your focus on the living Savior this season.
You may believe that you don't know much about Advent. But, that's probably not true! You may know more than you think. For example, have you seen or used an Advent calendar in your home during the Christmas season? If so, what was the purpose of the calendar? Most likely, it was to 'count down' the days to a climax...Christmas day.
The Church's celebration of Advent dates back to the 4th century A.D. when it lasted six weeks. Sometime in the 6th century A.D. it was established to include the four Sundays prior to Christmas day. Subsequently, it begins on the Sunday nearest to November 30th, and continues through Christmas day. It all leads up to the most glorious celebration of all...our Savior's birth.
Consider the meaning of the word, advent. Other than its strictly religious sense (coming of Christ), it means "coming arrival" [example: the advent of Spring]. The original word is from the Latin for "to come to." Compare advent with its cousin, adventure, which means "an exciting or remarkable experience." Now that makes sense! Shouldn't our walk with God and our quest to be conformed to the image of His dear Son be an exciting and remarkable experience every day of our lives? If you have ever wanted more, especially at Christmas, you need to prayerfully consider adding the Advent celebration to your Christmas traditions. Right now, you may be thinking, "Oh, great! Just what I don't need: one more thing to squeeze in between now and the end of the year." But, if the Holy Spirit directs you, you will be eager to start the adventure!
Advent is rich in spiritual (all scriptural) symbolism. If you don't like symbolism, then you need to start ignoring every rainbow in the sky. God works through symbolism, and we can learn much from it.
First, let us consider the Advent Wreath. Traditionally, it is a circle. The circle symbolizes God's eternal plan---from our birth to our rebirth to eternity in His presence, a never-ending circle of love. The wreath is dressed with evergreens. They symbolize God's undying love for us.
Within the wreath, the four candles are placed. The light of each candle represents Jesus, the light of the world. Nowadays, the four candles are purple (the color of royalty---depicting the reverence due the King of Kings.) Some churches use royal blue (another "royal" color) candles. However, from the earliest times, three purple and one pink candle have been used. I prefer this arrangement for several reasons. First, I like the tradition of it. But, even more importantly, the strange arrangement, of necessity, begs for an explanation. Just sitting there quietly, they become the topic of conversation, and behold! the doors swing open for witnessing opportunities. With that in mind, let's continue to examine the meaning of each separate candle.
The first week of Advent is commonly called the time of "Anticipation or Hope." The candle of the first week is purple. We are anticipating the arrival of the King of Kings. He is heavenly royalty personified. The first candle is referred to as the "Prophecy" candle. The studies (individual, family, or group) that the first week of Advent revolve around concern the prophecies that the King would come. But, Advent takes you one step farther. You never stop with the coming of the infant child king; you pause long enough to absorb the wonder of the virgin birth, God incarnate. Then, you examine the King's coming into your own heart. But, that's still not all! Finally, you look forward, with joyful ANTICIPATION, to the return of the KING! What a way to refocus on the season of seasons! It may be noted that some groups refer to the first candle as the "Hope" candle. What you prefer to call it is your decision. The name is not as important as the reality. The reality must be that you not only believe that He came once, but that He's coming again and you're looking forward to it!
The second week of Advent is called the time of "Preparation." The second candle is also purple. (The second candle is usually referred to as the "Bethlehem" candle.) As Bethlehem was foretold to be the place chosen to prepare for the coming King, we were admonished, ourselves, by John the Baptist, to "prepare [ye] the way of the Lord." During the second week of Advent, we focus on the preparations that need to be made daily to receive a King into our very lives. (On the second Sunday, you re-light the Prophecy candle first, and then light the Bethlehem candle.)
The third week of Advent is called the time of "Joy." The third candle is the pink one. It is traditionally pink (rose-colored) to signify that Jesus is the Rose of Sharon. (It is often called the "Shepherd's" candle.) After all, the good news came to the shepherds and they left all and came with great joy to find their Shepherd King. The symbolism is so very rich here. God became flesh and presented Himself to the lowliest of society. What does he have to do today, in our lives, to restore such heartfelt joy among us? Allow His Holy Spirit to guide you as you encounter fresh joy "unspeakable, and full of glory." (On the third Sunday, you re-light the Prophecy and Bethlehem candles and then light the Shepherd's candle.)
The final week of Advent is called the time of "Peace." The fourth candle is the last purple candle, (commonly called the "Angel's" candle.) And of course, the angels in heaven rejoiced that earth had "received her King." Peace was born that day, on earth, and every man is able to be at peace with God. Study His Word, let it rise up in you, and guide you into perfect peace this blessed season. (This final Sunday you will re-light the Prophecy candle, the Bethlehem candle, the Shepherd's candle, and then finally, you will light the last one, the Angel's candle.)
There remains a single, white candle in the center of the wreath. This is the "Christ" candle, and it represents His purity. You may light it on Christmas eve and again on Christmas day to symbolize the light of the world!
Have you ever arrived someplace only to discover that you "just missed" a beloved friend or family member? That's what Advent is all about. We may have missed His first coming, but He has come into our own lives, and indeed, He's coming again to take us home. Our hearts are filled with peace and reconciliation while we wait, hopefully anticipating the love of God, and His eminent return to restore us into His family forever. If that isn't reason enough to lift Him up daily, and especially at Christmas, then I don't know what is.
LET THE ADVENTURE BEGIN!!!
Sunday, November 27, 2011
the other half
While I was studying at the university, I had reams of "required" course reading to do. Majoring in Education, there were all the volumes written by the so-called experts in the field regarding classroom techniques that should be mastered. After I became a teacher, I often wondered just exactly how much real time these people had spent in a classroom. But, that's a whole other story and I digress. My minor was in Social Science, so many hours were spent on classes in that field: Anthropology, Geography, History, Economics, Government, Philosophy, Sociology, etc., basically the study of "us."
During the semester that I was enrolled in my first Sociology course, the required reading was lighter than I expected, so I was able to really focus on the content. I don't remember whether I finished the list because I became enthralled with the first book mentioned, How the Other Half Lives by Jacob Riis.
Jacob Riis came to this country from Denmark when he was about twenty years of age. He lived in poverty, barely surviving, until he found work as a reporter for a New York newspaper about three years after his arrival. He possessed a knowledge of the poor that few in his new position had ever encountered and he was determined to use his writing skills to make people aware of the awful conditions endured by the poor in the city. He eventually became a photo journalist, and in fact, was one of the pioneers in the field of flash powder photography. This technique allowed him to photograph inside and outside of the slums at night.
In 1890, his book (How the Other Half Lives) was first published. With the startling account of the wretched conditions that thousands of impoverished citizens daily endured, documented with his amazing photography, a new awareness was reached. Social reform was finally underway. Many of the wealthy found his work very disagreeable, the slum lords in particular. For the next twenty-five years, Riis continued to write and lecture on the conditions of the poor. His work made a genuine difference in the way cities regard social issues of the poverty-stricken masses.
But, it's the title of his first book that has me thinking right now.
What I am really concerned about is how we treat "the other half" for the next few weeks. I'm not referring to just the poor among us. All of us, individually, through our churches or other charities, already do that. I am talking about the poor haggard sales people and food servers who do their best to take care of us while we are out-and-about, shopping, dining, partying. For example, I cannot believe that all the sales people who were stocking the shelves Thursday afternoon in preparation for the zero-hour that launched the shopping season, were there because they didn't want to spend time with their own family and friends. They were "there" because it was the shift they drew. Some retailers don't even allow time-off during the busy holiday season! SO, EVERYBODY PLAY NICE!!! Be patient while waiting in line. Be courteous to fellow bargain-hunters. Be cheerful to the checker. The mind-numbing beep,beep, beep of the scanner is torture enough. Think of others! And above all, SMILE!
Now, about those food servers. The same rules apply. These poor people are on their feet continuously. They don't need someone complaining to the management that they have been neglected or poorly served. And don't even suggest that they don't have to be there---that it's their own choice. In these desperate economic times, many people, even those with college degrees, have found themselves pursuing employment in a field other than their major. Hunger is a great motivator! It will get you up on your feet, searching relentlessly until you find a position, any position, that still involves honorable work. So, don't judge...EVER! Just be nice. It's easy, really. And when you have received the gift of good service, tip generously. Then, take the time to mention to the manager that your experience was a pleasant one.
This soapbox is for me, primarily, my dear friends. I point no fingers, make no accusations. I am speaking mostly to myself, but I have learned that what is on my mind is often good for others to consider, as well. Please do not be offended. Let's all just resolve to keep Christ in Christmas, evident by our behavior.
OH! I almost forgot: carry some crisp dollar bills with you, too. It's "Shiny Red Kettle" time.
During the semester that I was enrolled in my first Sociology course, the required reading was lighter than I expected, so I was able to really focus on the content. I don't remember whether I finished the list because I became enthralled with the first book mentioned, How the Other Half Lives by Jacob Riis.
Jacob Riis came to this country from Denmark when he was about twenty years of age. He lived in poverty, barely surviving, until he found work as a reporter for a New York newspaper about three years after his arrival. He possessed a knowledge of the poor that few in his new position had ever encountered and he was determined to use his writing skills to make people aware of the awful conditions endured by the poor in the city. He eventually became a photo journalist, and in fact, was one of the pioneers in the field of flash powder photography. This technique allowed him to photograph inside and outside of the slums at night.
In 1890, his book (How the Other Half Lives) was first published. With the startling account of the wretched conditions that thousands of impoverished citizens daily endured, documented with his amazing photography, a new awareness was reached. Social reform was finally underway. Many of the wealthy found his work very disagreeable, the slum lords in particular. For the next twenty-five years, Riis continued to write and lecture on the conditions of the poor. His work made a genuine difference in the way cities regard social issues of the poverty-stricken masses.
But, it's the title of his first book that has me thinking right now.
What I am really concerned about is how we treat "the other half" for the next few weeks. I'm not referring to just the poor among us. All of us, individually, through our churches or other charities, already do that. I am talking about the poor haggard sales people and food servers who do their best to take care of us while we are out-and-about, shopping, dining, partying. For example, I cannot believe that all the sales people who were stocking the shelves Thursday afternoon in preparation for the zero-hour that launched the shopping season, were there because they didn't want to spend time with their own family and friends. They were "there" because it was the shift they drew. Some retailers don't even allow time-off during the busy holiday season! SO, EVERYBODY PLAY NICE!!! Be patient while waiting in line. Be courteous to fellow bargain-hunters. Be cheerful to the checker. The mind-numbing beep,beep, beep of the scanner is torture enough. Think of others! And above all, SMILE!
Now, about those food servers. The same rules apply. These poor people are on their feet continuously. They don't need someone complaining to the management that they have been neglected or poorly served. And don't even suggest that they don't have to be there---that it's their own choice. In these desperate economic times, many people, even those with college degrees, have found themselves pursuing employment in a field other than their major. Hunger is a great motivator! It will get you up on your feet, searching relentlessly until you find a position, any position, that still involves honorable work. So, don't judge...EVER! Just be nice. It's easy, really. And when you have received the gift of good service, tip generously. Then, take the time to mention to the manager that your experience was a pleasant one.
This soapbox is for me, primarily, my dear friends. I point no fingers, make no accusations. I am speaking mostly to myself, but I have learned that what is on my mind is often good for others to consider, as well. Please do not be offended. Let's all just resolve to keep Christ in Christmas, evident by our behavior.
OH! I almost forgot: carry some crisp dollar bills with you, too. It's "Shiny Red Kettle" time.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
and the race is on
It's no longer months or weeks, in just a day or two it begins...what is commonly called in this country, The Holiday Season. And then, the race is on.
Just as a warm-up exercise, we'll spend eighteen hours making a delicious meal of all our favorite foods. Amazing aromas will be wafting from the kitchen. Friends and family members will arrive. The house will be filled with noisy chatter, and then...we'll all sit down and EAT, eat, eat! Every year I say the same thing, "I just want a smidgen of everything. I won't sit here until I am stuffed and miserable. I'll stop before then." Yeah, well, I'll uhh, get back to you next week on that.
After that, we'll succumb to a semi coma stage, but that's not our fault! Blame that one on the turkey. It's all that tripta-whatever that makes us sleepy---overeating has nothing to do with it, thank you very much!
Then, the guys will watch football while the ladies get their game on, strategically planning for another hair-raising run at Black Friday sales. They will go to bed early or stay up very late, after all, some stores will open at midnight. When they finally arrive home again, after hours in the trenches, they will be laden with bags and bundles to prove that it was worth it. And anyway, all that money that they saved will buy a whole lot of Tylenol. It's all part of our passion for the holidays.
I love everything about the next few weeks. I have learned that I won't be able to accept every invitation, make every sale, visit every lighting display, attend every concert or play, but I do have a choice in what will bring me the most happiness and enjoyment. I will plan around those things. And I will enjoy every moment until this time rolls around again, or better yet, I'll just keep Thanksgiving and Christmas in my heart all year long. I'll make turkey (or maybe chicken) with dressing anytime I want it, I'll listen to beautiful Christmas music all year long, and I'll be merry and happy if I want to. I'll even have a Christmas tree up on March the twenty-fifth, if I want to. You see, I'm in charge of celebrations and I choose to celebrate with reckless abandon!
The fact that Jesus came to earth, for us, is stupendous, but that He came at all (He didn't have to) is absolutely amazing! The whole season may have turned too commercial for some, but that doesn't bother me. If it gives one soul reason to stop and think of Him---driving past a nativity scene on a church lawn, reading the message in a precious Christmas card, having the opportunity to give to others (SHINY, RED KETTLES!) then I am still glad for it.
I can't blame the merchants for trying to end a year of profit-loss with just one quarter in the black. And anyway, they hire seasonal help which is an answer to prayer for many people.
I have determined that the Holiday Season will always be exactly what I want it to be. I am in control. Not everything will work out as I initially planned---it never does---but that will not stop me from enjoying every moment. I plan to embrace the celebration of my Christ with renewed gusto and absolute contentment...content in the knowledge that if we think all this hoopla is something, just wait 'til you see how they celebrate in heaven!!!!
Just as a warm-up exercise, we'll spend eighteen hours making a delicious meal of all our favorite foods. Amazing aromas will be wafting from the kitchen. Friends and family members will arrive. The house will be filled with noisy chatter, and then...we'll all sit down and EAT, eat, eat! Every year I say the same thing, "I just want a smidgen of everything. I won't sit here until I am stuffed and miserable. I'll stop before then." Yeah, well, I'll uhh, get back to you next week on that.
After that, we'll succumb to a semi coma stage, but that's not our fault! Blame that one on the turkey. It's all that tripta-whatever that makes us sleepy---overeating has nothing to do with it, thank you very much!
Then, the guys will watch football while the ladies get their game on, strategically planning for another hair-raising run at Black Friday sales. They will go to bed early or stay up very late, after all, some stores will open at midnight. When they finally arrive home again, after hours in the trenches, they will be laden with bags and bundles to prove that it was worth it. And anyway, all that money that they saved will buy a whole lot of Tylenol. It's all part of our passion for the holidays.
I love everything about the next few weeks. I have learned that I won't be able to accept every invitation, make every sale, visit every lighting display, attend every concert or play, but I do have a choice in what will bring me the most happiness and enjoyment. I will plan around those things. And I will enjoy every moment until this time rolls around again, or better yet, I'll just keep Thanksgiving and Christmas in my heart all year long. I'll make turkey (or maybe chicken) with dressing anytime I want it, I'll listen to beautiful Christmas music all year long, and I'll be merry and happy if I want to. I'll even have a Christmas tree up on March the twenty-fifth, if I want to. You see, I'm in charge of celebrations and I choose to celebrate with reckless abandon!
The fact that Jesus came to earth, for us, is stupendous, but that He came at all (He didn't have to) is absolutely amazing! The whole season may have turned too commercial for some, but that doesn't bother me. If it gives one soul reason to stop and think of Him---driving past a nativity scene on a church lawn, reading the message in a precious Christmas card, having the opportunity to give to others (SHINY, RED KETTLES!) then I am still glad for it.
I can't blame the merchants for trying to end a year of profit-loss with just one quarter in the black. And anyway, they hire seasonal help which is an answer to prayer for many people.
I have determined that the Holiday Season will always be exactly what I want it to be. I am in control. Not everything will work out as I initially planned---it never does---but that will not stop me from enjoying every moment. I plan to embrace the celebration of my Christ with renewed gusto and absolute contentment...content in the knowledge that if we think all this hoopla is something, just wait 'til you see how they celebrate in heaven!!!!
Friday, November 18, 2011
following instructions
If you have spent very much time in the kitchen, you probably know how crucial it is to follow instructions...especially in the preparation of food.
Sometimes, when we try to take a short-cut, things may not turn out so well.
Consider some of these instructions:
COOKING A TURKEY
Geremy advises, "You buy the turkey and take the paper off. Then you put it in the refrigerator and take it back out and cut it with a knife and make sure all the wires are out and take out the neck and heart. Then you put it in a big pan and cook it for half an hour at 80 degrees. Then you invite people over and eat." Sounds simple enough, but I'm fairly certain that the outcome would be less than desirable!
Moriah disagrees, "First you cut the bones out. Then you put it in the oven for 10 hours at 600 degrees. Then you put it on the table and eat it." Or, what's left of it!
Lauren employs yet another method: "First you find a turkey and kill it. Cut it open. Put it in a pan. Pour milk in the pan. Put a little chicken with it. Put salsa on it. Take out of pan. Put it on the board. Cut into little pieces. Put on a rack. Put in the oven for 7 minutes at 10 degrees. Take out of the oven and put eensy weensy bit of sugar on it. Put a little more salsa on it. Then you eat it." You're going to need a lot more salsa with that!
Isn't it a bit curious that all these children were trying to accomplish the same task? Furthermore, each one of them believed that they were doing it correctly. They were confident in the outcome, and still...it was all wrong.
I have read dozens of these 'recipes' over the years and still marvel at just how easy it is to do something completely wrong and still expect the outcome to be favorable.
I think that such is the way with life, at times. We need to do something so we figure out a plan, and do it. We expect it to turn out well, but sometimes it just doesn't. Maybe we left out a step. Maybe we had the timing all wrong. Maybe we didn't even have the necessary ingredients for success.
I think that maybe we are living in times such as these for a reason. Jesus reminded us that we were the salt of the earth...the seasoning of life...the very element that makes things wonderful for ourselves, as well as others. But, He cautioned that if the salt had lost its flavor, then it was good for nothing and should be tossed out. So, the next time you have the opportunity to do something special for others, check the instructions first and make sure that your motives are seasoned with nothing but pure love.
I am eternally grateful that He is God, and I am not! All I have to do, all He expects me to do, is follow the instructions..."He hath shown thee, oh man, what is good, and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with thy God." Micah 6:8
DESSERT, Anyone?
Try Shelby's instructions for making applesauce, "Go to the store and buy some apples, and then you squish them up. Then you put them in a jar that says, "Applesauce." Then you eat it."
Christopher shares his advice for making pumpkin pie: "First you buy a pumpkin and smash it. Then it is all done. And you cook it in the oven for 12 minutes and 4 degrees. Then you eat it." Bon appetit!
Sometimes, when we try to take a short-cut, things may not turn out so well.
Consider some of these instructions:
COOKING A TURKEY
Geremy advises, "You buy the turkey and take the paper off. Then you put it in the refrigerator and take it back out and cut it with a knife and make sure all the wires are out and take out the neck and heart. Then you put it in a big pan and cook it for half an hour at 80 degrees. Then you invite people over and eat." Sounds simple enough, but I'm fairly certain that the outcome would be less than desirable!
Moriah disagrees, "First you cut the bones out. Then you put it in the oven for 10 hours at 600 degrees. Then you put it on the table and eat it." Or, what's left of it!
Lauren employs yet another method: "First you find a turkey and kill it. Cut it open. Put it in a pan. Pour milk in the pan. Put a little chicken with it. Put salsa on it. Take out of pan. Put it on the board. Cut into little pieces. Put on a rack. Put in the oven for 7 minutes at 10 degrees. Take out of the oven and put eensy weensy bit of sugar on it. Put a little more salsa on it. Then you eat it." You're going to need a lot more salsa with that!
Isn't it a bit curious that all these children were trying to accomplish the same task? Furthermore, each one of them believed that they were doing it correctly. They were confident in the outcome, and still...it was all wrong.
I have read dozens of these 'recipes' over the years and still marvel at just how easy it is to do something completely wrong and still expect the outcome to be favorable.
I think that such is the way with life, at times. We need to do something so we figure out a plan, and do it. We expect it to turn out well, but sometimes it just doesn't. Maybe we left out a step. Maybe we had the timing all wrong. Maybe we didn't even have the necessary ingredients for success.
I think that maybe we are living in times such as these for a reason. Jesus reminded us that we were the salt of the earth...the seasoning of life...the very element that makes things wonderful for ourselves, as well as others. But, He cautioned that if the salt had lost its flavor, then it was good for nothing and should be tossed out. So, the next time you have the opportunity to do something special for others, check the instructions first and make sure that your motives are seasoned with nothing but pure love.
I am eternally grateful that He is God, and I am not! All I have to do, all He expects me to do, is follow the instructions..."He hath shown thee, oh man, what is good, and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with thy God." Micah 6:8
DESSERT, Anyone?
Try Shelby's instructions for making applesauce, "Go to the store and buy some apples, and then you squish them up. Then you put them in a jar that says, "Applesauce." Then you eat it."
Christopher shares his advice for making pumpkin pie: "First you buy a pumpkin and smash it. Then it is all done. And you cook it in the oven for 12 minutes and 4 degrees. Then you eat it." Bon appetit!
Thursday, November 17, 2011
final curtain? who knows?
I took the scenic route to work on Monday. It takes a few minutes longer, but it keeps me off the busy interstate highway, away from the construction area and far from the already-running-behind drivers.
I chose that path because I have so thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful changes of the autumn season. Since we live in an 'older' neighborhood, our street has BIG trees...big trees with lots of leaves! Those leaves are stunning this year. In fact, I cannot remember a more vibrant Autumn. Perhaps it is to make up for the dreadfully long, hot summer that we just endured. No matter...it's here now, and oh! how marvelous it is.
So, I wondered if it was just around here or more widespread. I was not disappointed. My journey took me down streets ablaze with rich colors...yellow, orange, red and every shade in-between, all accented by the remaining green leaves. I was intoxicated with the magnificent scenery, so happy to be alive and well.
And then, I suddenly was aware of all the people who will miss this display. They never imagined that last November would be the final curtain of their Autumns. You see, this past year I lost a dear sister-in-law, an uncle and a cousin. They all died very suddenly, without warning. In addition to these, another cousin lost her daughter, and a precious friend lost her grown son...again, without warning.
Thinking about these dear ones made me realize how terribly important it is to enjoy every season of our lives. No matter what you are going through, life is still precious and good! Savor every moment. Don't miss the Autumn season while yearning for Spring.
God is still in control and He is still the host of the universe. He spreads an abundant table before us, every day, and bids us, "Come, dine with me." It's a standing reservation with the best seat in the house. Today, it's my pleasure to stand at the door of this beautiful day and greet people, "Come in, welcome...ENJOY!"
I chose that path because I have so thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful changes of the autumn season. Since we live in an 'older' neighborhood, our street has BIG trees...big trees with lots of leaves! Those leaves are stunning this year. In fact, I cannot remember a more vibrant Autumn. Perhaps it is to make up for the dreadfully long, hot summer that we just endured. No matter...it's here now, and oh! how marvelous it is.
So, I wondered if it was just around here or more widespread. I was not disappointed. My journey took me down streets ablaze with rich colors...yellow, orange, red and every shade in-between, all accented by the remaining green leaves. I was intoxicated with the magnificent scenery, so happy to be alive and well.
And then, I suddenly was aware of all the people who will miss this display. They never imagined that last November would be the final curtain of their Autumns. You see, this past year I lost a dear sister-in-law, an uncle and a cousin. They all died very suddenly, without warning. In addition to these, another cousin lost her daughter, and a precious friend lost her grown son...again, without warning.
Thinking about these dear ones made me realize how terribly important it is to enjoy every season of our lives. No matter what you are going through, life is still precious and good! Savor every moment. Don't miss the Autumn season while yearning for Spring.
God is still in control and He is still the host of the universe. He spreads an abundant table before us, every day, and bids us, "Come, dine with me." It's a standing reservation with the best seat in the house. Today, it's my pleasure to stand at the door of this beautiful day and greet people, "Come in, welcome...ENJOY!"
Monday, November 14, 2011
Mama always said
Whenever I hear my daughters commenting that they have begun to sound "just like my mama," I have to smile and pause to recall some of the things that my own mama used to say.
For instance, my five siblings and I were warned fairly regularly to "stop acting like wild Indians!" Since westerns were a typical genre in that day for both television and movies, we were quite accustomed to seeing firsthand what 'wild Indians' could do. And that was the puzzling part, I suppose. No matter how aggressive or loud we were, one thing is certain: we never chased each other around with tomahawks or shot arrows at one another. So it was no wonder that I never understood what that was all about. To this day, I am only sure of one thing; whenever we heard the phrase, it meant to cease and desist! THAT part we understood clearly. Now today, it would be politically incorrect to say such a thing, and rightly so. It turns out that most of the time, those poor Indians were provoked to act wildly! Go figure. Poor Mama, how could she have known?!
Then, of course, there were those occasions when we were strongly advised to remember that we were "not Philistines, after all." Now this was a little more easily understood. We knew about those crazy Philistines from Sunday School! Why, Goliath himself was a Philistine. David had no choice but to slay him. He was going around threatening the entire nation, just looking for a fight, and anyway he was enormous, probably well over seven feet tall! Again, what in the world did that have to do with us, I wondered. Mind you that, no one, not even Mama, ever explained these things---she just 'said' them. We can chalk that one up to politically incorrect, as well, I'm sure. Poor Mama, how could she have known?!
We were not allowed to act like "aborigines' either. And all we knew about them was that they all ran around naked. You can quickly see why we were confused most of the time! None of us, to my knowledge, made it a habit to run around naked. Absolutely, politically incorrect, as well. Poor Mama, how could she have known?!
When we were in rare form, the admonition was swift, "Stop shrieking like banshees!" Now, please understand that we were not the run-of-the-mill rug rats; we were exposed to culture! Not a Sunday evening (after church, of course) went by that we didn't watch the Walt Disney show. We had seen 'Darby O'Gill and the Little People' more than once. We knew all about that screaming, wailing banshee that came with the death coach! But, darned if I can recollect one single instance when any of us ever sounded like that! One thing was certain, though; when you got to the roots of it, they all meant 'cease and desist,' and THAT we understood very well, indeed.
There were many other things I can remember too, but perhaps the one that comes to mind most frequently was a simple request, "How about coming in here and making yourself useful?" I think about that one a lot, the older I get. Why wouldn't we do that exact thing...make ourselves useful, that is. I don't know which word should be emphasized more, but for me it comes down to 'make' and 'useful.' I can only speak from experience right now, but I have discovered that sometimes I need to MAKE myself useful. I need a little nudge to get into action. The Holy Spirit is a great prompter---He has the next line (or action) and He's always nearby, ready to coach. The next part is equally imperative. What we choose to do should be useful to ourselves or someone...anyone, and especially to our Lord. I don't need time to think about what Jesus would do; there's a whole book about it. I need to think about what I am going to do---right here, right now, to make a difference, to make myself useful.
I'm trying harder to make good choices, choices that would make Mama proud! Choices that will allow me to hear those coveted words from my Savior, "Well done, good and faithful servant."
For instance, my five siblings and I were warned fairly regularly to "stop acting like wild Indians!" Since westerns were a typical genre in that day for both television and movies, we were quite accustomed to seeing firsthand what 'wild Indians' could do. And that was the puzzling part, I suppose. No matter how aggressive or loud we were, one thing is certain: we never chased each other around with tomahawks or shot arrows at one another. So it was no wonder that I never understood what that was all about. To this day, I am only sure of one thing; whenever we heard the phrase, it meant to cease and desist! THAT part we understood clearly. Now today, it would be politically incorrect to say such a thing, and rightly so. It turns out that most of the time, those poor Indians were provoked to act wildly! Go figure. Poor Mama, how could she have known?!
Then, of course, there were those occasions when we were strongly advised to remember that we were "not Philistines, after all." Now this was a little more easily understood. We knew about those crazy Philistines from Sunday School! Why, Goliath himself was a Philistine. David had no choice but to slay him. He was going around threatening the entire nation, just looking for a fight, and anyway he was enormous, probably well over seven feet tall! Again, what in the world did that have to do with us, I wondered. Mind you that, no one, not even Mama, ever explained these things---she just 'said' them. We can chalk that one up to politically incorrect, as well, I'm sure. Poor Mama, how could she have known?!
We were not allowed to act like "aborigines' either. And all we knew about them was that they all ran around naked. You can quickly see why we were confused most of the time! None of us, to my knowledge, made it a habit to run around naked. Absolutely, politically incorrect, as well. Poor Mama, how could she have known?!
When we were in rare form, the admonition was swift, "Stop shrieking like banshees!" Now, please understand that we were not the run-of-the-mill rug rats; we were exposed to culture! Not a Sunday evening (after church, of course) went by that we didn't watch the Walt Disney show. We had seen 'Darby O'Gill and the Little People' more than once. We knew all about that screaming, wailing banshee that came with the death coach! But, darned if I can recollect one single instance when any of us ever sounded like that! One thing was certain, though; when you got to the roots of it, they all meant 'cease and desist,' and THAT we understood very well, indeed.
There were many other things I can remember too, but perhaps the one that comes to mind most frequently was a simple request, "How about coming in here and making yourself useful?" I think about that one a lot, the older I get. Why wouldn't we do that exact thing...make ourselves useful, that is. I don't know which word should be emphasized more, but for me it comes down to 'make' and 'useful.' I can only speak from experience right now, but I have discovered that sometimes I need to MAKE myself useful. I need a little nudge to get into action. The Holy Spirit is a great prompter---He has the next line (or action) and He's always nearby, ready to coach. The next part is equally imperative. What we choose to do should be useful to ourselves or someone...anyone, and especially to our Lord. I don't need time to think about what Jesus would do; there's a whole book about it. I need to think about what I am going to do---right here, right now, to make a difference, to make myself useful.
I'm trying harder to make good choices, choices that would make Mama proud! Choices that will allow me to hear those coveted words from my Savior, "Well done, good and faithful servant."
Sunday, November 13, 2011
welcome to my laboratory
You can run, but you can't hide from adversity. It will track you down and trip you up every chance it gets. Such is the way of life on this earth.
There have been many difficult periods in my life, but I have noticed that time is the equalizer for them all. Often, after some time goes by---hours maybe, or days, months and years---the "thing" that I thought that I simply could not deal with will change---one way or another, it will change. I frequently remind myself of this: "If you don't like something, change it. If you cannot change it, change the way you think about it."
Perhaps then, there is the key. It's more the way that we "think" about it than the way that it really is. If every thought is still contentious and angry---stop thinking about it!
In the midst of difficult or trying situations, I try and remember the fruits of the Spirit...love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and self-control. If I cannot find a majority of these nine, then something is wrong with the way I am responding to the situation. With all the powerful combinations that I have available, surely I can mix up something great!
EXAMPLE: (lame, but available) When someone is dashing in and out of the already congested rush-hour traffic, and nearly runs me off the road, I still have options for my initial response. Some choices might be:
Yell at them: "You JERK!" Wow, that was wildly satisfying---I'm sure they heard me! Oh, my blood pressure.
Continue the aggression: Speed up and ride their bumper---that'll make them sorry! Oh, my blood pressure.
Ignore it: Keep driving as sanely as possible and sing out loud---Ahh, my blood pressure.
What's the difference? Pausing that split second to weigh it in the balance; will my next action provide a 2/3 majority?
With that thought in mind, I have decided to take-up the ancient science and philosophy of alchemy. Yep, that's my new goal; I want to practice being an alchemist.
I want to be the one who takes old metal from discarded objects and works with it until it changes into gold!
I want to examine it and adjust my formula until it becomes something valuable, irreplaceable! Yes, I want to be an alchemist along the journey of life. Picking up the pieces and remixing the components until gold results from the effort. If the challenge proves to be too great for the day, I want to have the wisdom to set the heap of junk on the shelf and come back to it another time, with a new approach to the solution. Alchemy...it's a beautiful word...a serious approach to turning rubbish into something valuable.
"When the Japanese mend broken objects, they aggrandize the damage by filling the cracks with gold. They believe that when something's suffered damage and has a history it becomes more beautiful." ~Barbara Bloom
Mix your own potion with the powerful components found in the fruits and keep trying until you have the perfect formula for that "metal" and don't be too surprised that, when the smoke clears, you're looking at pure gold! Give it a try---maybe you were destined to be an alchemist, too!!!
There have been many difficult periods in my life, but I have noticed that time is the equalizer for them all. Often, after some time goes by---hours maybe, or days, months and years---the "thing" that I thought that I simply could not deal with will change---one way or another, it will change. I frequently remind myself of this: "If you don't like something, change it. If you cannot change it, change the way you think about it."
Perhaps then, there is the key. It's more the way that we "think" about it than the way that it really is. If every thought is still contentious and angry---stop thinking about it!
In the midst of difficult or trying situations, I try and remember the fruits of the Spirit...love, joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and self-control. If I cannot find a majority of these nine, then something is wrong with the way I am responding to the situation. With all the powerful combinations that I have available, surely I can mix up something great!
EXAMPLE: (lame, but available) When someone is dashing in and out of the already congested rush-hour traffic, and nearly runs me off the road, I still have options for my initial response. Some choices might be:
Yell at them: "You JERK!" Wow, that was wildly satisfying---I'm sure they heard me! Oh, my blood pressure.
Continue the aggression: Speed up and ride their bumper---that'll make them sorry! Oh, my blood pressure.
Ignore it: Keep driving as sanely as possible and sing out loud---Ahh, my blood pressure.
What's the difference? Pausing that split second to weigh it in the balance; will my next action provide a 2/3 majority?
With that thought in mind, I have decided to take-up the ancient science and philosophy of alchemy. Yep, that's my new goal; I want to practice being an alchemist.
I want to be the one who takes old metal from discarded objects and works with it until it changes into gold!
I want to examine it and adjust my formula until it becomes something valuable, irreplaceable! Yes, I want to be an alchemist along the journey of life. Picking up the pieces and remixing the components until gold results from the effort. If the challenge proves to be too great for the day, I want to have the wisdom to set the heap of junk on the shelf and come back to it another time, with a new approach to the solution. Alchemy...it's a beautiful word...a serious approach to turning rubbish into something valuable.
"When the Japanese mend broken objects, they aggrandize the damage by filling the cracks with gold. They believe that when something's suffered damage and has a history it becomes more beautiful." ~Barbara Bloom
Mix your own potion with the powerful components found in the fruits and keep trying until you have the perfect formula for that "metal" and don't be too surprised that, when the smoke clears, you're looking at pure gold! Give it a try---maybe you were destined to be an alchemist, too!!!
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