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."
Monday, November 14, 2011
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!!!
Sunday, October 30, 2011
it's autumn, at last
Ah, autumn...my favorite season. Don't misunderstand; I truly enjoy a region that experiences all four seasons, and I have been blessed enough that I have always lived in such a place. After the record heat wave and drought of this past summer, I think everyone was longing for the cooler days of autumn, and now they are finally here.
What glorious days! They are warm and sunny and the evenings bring a chill on every wisp of wind. Morning comes and I am nestled deep in the folds of the fluffy down comforter that drapes over the bed. The sky seems more brilliant than any other time, I think. Perhaps it is only the contrast of the brightly colored leaves of the trees. Yes, autumn is a truly welcome season for me. I don't even mind that it means that winter is not far behind. (I will embrace its glory when it arrives.) But, in the meantime, I bask in the golden days of the most wonderful season of the year.
I often think that my life is a series of seasons, as well. If this is true, then perhaps I am enjoying the autumn of my life right this very minute. That's okay with me. I like my life. I like where I am in my life. Sometimes I wonder if I would have changed anything along the way, if I had known what would happen next. But, the truth of the matter is this: "any arbitrary changes along the way," will naturally change everything that happens after that! Just imagine...no matter what change you would make...it would alter everything past that point. I think it is good that God does not allow me to "know" too much, not even about myself! In His grace, He has chosen to reveal things to me gradually. I have become accustomed to being on a need-to-know basis. And I have discovered that He is true to His word...He has never allowed more to tempt or try me than I can manage at that point in my life. The lessons I have learned were often gleaned from hard fought battles in the trenches of life. I am no stranger to the school-of-hard-knocks. Sometimes it seems as though my name was on the roll for months at a time! Still, I was able, with God's divine help, to get through one more time.
Now that my life has proceeded through several decades, now that I have past the half-century mark, I feel as though I'm in the clubhouse turn. What is there left to do? What great and marvelous plans does He have for me that I cannot even imagine today? Since I am still on a need-to-know basis, I have absolutely no idea what will happen next. But, there is one thing that I am certain of. He lives to love...and He loves me. He knows my name...He walks with me and talks with me, and I plan to make the most of that relationship! While I do not know what the future holds, I most certainly have a plan. I plan to love the Lord with all my heart, and all my soul, and all my might. I plan to seek His approval before I mess things up for myself and possibly others. I plan to thank Him, with a grateful heart, whenever I think of anyone I love and care about. I plan to talk less and listen more...I plan to listen until I really hear. I plan to forgive so quickly that wounds don't have time to worsen and fester. I plan to enjoy this very wonderful life, every moment of every day.
I cannot imagine a more beautiful time than autumn...on this earth, and in my life!!!!!
What glorious days! They are warm and sunny and the evenings bring a chill on every wisp of wind. Morning comes and I am nestled deep in the folds of the fluffy down comforter that drapes over the bed. The sky seems more brilliant than any other time, I think. Perhaps it is only the contrast of the brightly colored leaves of the trees. Yes, autumn is a truly welcome season for me. I don't even mind that it means that winter is not far behind. (I will embrace its glory when it arrives.) But, in the meantime, I bask in the golden days of the most wonderful season of the year.
I often think that my life is a series of seasons, as well. If this is true, then perhaps I am enjoying the autumn of my life right this very minute. That's okay with me. I like my life. I like where I am in my life. Sometimes I wonder if I would have changed anything along the way, if I had known what would happen next. But, the truth of the matter is this: "any arbitrary changes along the way," will naturally change everything that happens after that! Just imagine...no matter what change you would make...it would alter everything past that point. I think it is good that God does not allow me to "know" too much, not even about myself! In His grace, He has chosen to reveal things to me gradually. I have become accustomed to being on a need-to-know basis. And I have discovered that He is true to His word...He has never allowed more to tempt or try me than I can manage at that point in my life. The lessons I have learned were often gleaned from hard fought battles in the trenches of life. I am no stranger to the school-of-hard-knocks. Sometimes it seems as though my name was on the roll for months at a time! Still, I was able, with God's divine help, to get through one more time.
Now that my life has proceeded through several decades, now that I have past the half-century mark, I feel as though I'm in the clubhouse turn. What is there left to do? What great and marvelous plans does He have for me that I cannot even imagine today? Since I am still on a need-to-know basis, I have absolutely no idea what will happen next. But, there is one thing that I am certain of. He lives to love...and He loves me. He knows my name...He walks with me and talks with me, and I plan to make the most of that relationship! While I do not know what the future holds, I most certainly have a plan. I plan to love the Lord with all my heart, and all my soul, and all my might. I plan to seek His approval before I mess things up for myself and possibly others. I plan to thank Him, with a grateful heart, whenever I think of anyone I love and care about. I plan to talk less and listen more...I plan to listen until I really hear. I plan to forgive so quickly that wounds don't have time to worsen and fester. I plan to enjoy this very wonderful life, every moment of every day.
I cannot imagine a more beautiful time than autumn...on this earth, and in my life!!!!!
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
check the warranty
We all know what a warranty is, or at least we have an idea of what it is and what it is supposed to do. In short, a warranty is usually defined as "a written guarantee of the integrity of the product." Okay, so far, so good. That's about what we thought it amounted to.
But, then there are divisions within the overall definition, as well. We soon discover that some warranties are more valuable than others, some are misleading, and some are merely implied, leaving us little space for a claim of any kind, and still others are rather vague and laced with limitations. Therefore, a universal (one size fits all) warranty simply does not exist.
For example, the ceiling fans that we carry at the lighting gallery have a "lifetime" warranty on the motor. Basically that means that if the fan drops a speed or the motor stops running, the owner is entitled to a new one, "motor" that is. If the fan is out of production, then fair market value of the fan (at today's rate) will be applied to another fan that the owner chooses. Sounds simple enough, and actually it really is. When a non-working fan is brought in, we usually just replace the entire unit, blades and all---that way the finish is sure to match. Most customers are happy with this procedure and appreciate how easy it is to activate the warranty. They don't have to box it up and send it somewhere; they just bring it to us and we order the replacement, at no cost to them. However, every once-in-a-while somebody wants an "exact" definition of "lifetime." More than once, we have been asked if it means the lifetime of the fan or the lifetime of the owner.
Well, let me think about this for a moment: if it is the lifetime of the fan, then when it quits, isn't its life over? If so, then what is the point or value of any kind of warranty for it? Okay then, let's say it refers to the lifetime of the owner. Then we are asked if the owner dies, but the fan is still working, does the warranty continue on to the next owner? I'm serious. People actually want this nailed down. And of course, the inevitable question, "What if you go out of business?" As I said before, it can get tricky...trying to understand or activate your warranty. And that got me to thinking...
I wonder what kind of warranty we offer to others when it comes to the "guarantee of our integrity." I remember my parents and grandparents talking about a man's word was his bond, or a handshake on a deal meant something. Sadly, that is not so commonplace to us anymore. We have all been lied to or even tricked by those who pride themselves on being "clever." There is absolutely no guarantee of their integrity.
And what about forgiveness? Do we offer it with a limited warranty or a lifetime warranty? What is the value of our integrity...where is the guarantee that our heart sees the matter as closed, and it will not let our mind take over and destroy the value of the deal.
What about love? Does the love we share with others, whether family or friends, come with a lifetime warranty, or is it subject to those vague limitation clauses? Can they depend on the integrity of the product we have offered or will they be out of luck if we decide to close up the shop...just something to think about.
Then, of course, there are the other attributes of God's presence in our lives...the fruit of His Spirit...things such as patience, goodness, meekness, faith, self-control. What about them, indeed?! Can the recipients of our "fruit" depend on a good product with a lifetime warranty or are there strings attached? Is there real integrity in our motives and actions, or is it merely implied?
What about faith? Can they depend on us to pray when they pour out their hearts like water on thirsty ground? Is there a record of integrity in our warranty that assures them that we will, indeed, stand in the gap, and storm the gates of hell with nothing but a water pistol, if necessary, with faith that doesn't wear-out or rust-out?!
When I think about these things and my response to them, it doesn't take very long to discover how my precious Jesus has handled my warranty. It's unconditional and extends beyond a lifetime...to eternity. His personal integrity is more than enough to cover any situation that presents a claim. I can depend on Him...ALWAYS!
It is my earnest hope that we will always strive to be as sincere with the things He has trusted us with, as He has been faithful and true to us. When there is injury, we will offer pardon---no limitations, no expiration. When we love, we will love completely...no strings attached. When we are good and kind...let it be with a pure heart, no expectations for return. Simply put, let our lives come with a lifetime warranty, that others might know that we offer ourselves without reservation, with integrity, that God might be glorified in us always.
But, then there are divisions within the overall definition, as well. We soon discover that some warranties are more valuable than others, some are misleading, and some are merely implied, leaving us little space for a claim of any kind, and still others are rather vague and laced with limitations. Therefore, a universal (one size fits all) warranty simply does not exist.
For example, the ceiling fans that we carry at the lighting gallery have a "lifetime" warranty on the motor. Basically that means that if the fan drops a speed or the motor stops running, the owner is entitled to a new one, "motor" that is. If the fan is out of production, then fair market value of the fan (at today's rate) will be applied to another fan that the owner chooses. Sounds simple enough, and actually it really is. When a non-working fan is brought in, we usually just replace the entire unit, blades and all---that way the finish is sure to match. Most customers are happy with this procedure and appreciate how easy it is to activate the warranty. They don't have to box it up and send it somewhere; they just bring it to us and we order the replacement, at no cost to them. However, every once-in-a-while somebody wants an "exact" definition of "lifetime." More than once, we have been asked if it means the lifetime of the fan or the lifetime of the owner.
Well, let me think about this for a moment: if it is the lifetime of the fan, then when it quits, isn't its life over? If so, then what is the point or value of any kind of warranty for it? Okay then, let's say it refers to the lifetime of the owner. Then we are asked if the owner dies, but the fan is still working, does the warranty continue on to the next owner? I'm serious. People actually want this nailed down. And of course, the inevitable question, "What if you go out of business?" As I said before, it can get tricky...trying to understand or activate your warranty. And that got me to thinking...
I wonder what kind of warranty we offer to others when it comes to the "guarantee of our integrity." I remember my parents and grandparents talking about a man's word was his bond, or a handshake on a deal meant something. Sadly, that is not so commonplace to us anymore. We have all been lied to or even tricked by those who pride themselves on being "clever." There is absolutely no guarantee of their integrity.
And what about forgiveness? Do we offer it with a limited warranty or a lifetime warranty? What is the value of our integrity...where is the guarantee that our heart sees the matter as closed, and it will not let our mind take over and destroy the value of the deal.
What about love? Does the love we share with others, whether family or friends, come with a lifetime warranty, or is it subject to those vague limitation clauses? Can they depend on the integrity of the product we have offered or will they be out of luck if we decide to close up the shop...just something to think about.
Then, of course, there are the other attributes of God's presence in our lives...the fruit of His Spirit...things such as patience, goodness, meekness, faith, self-control. What about them, indeed?! Can the recipients of our "fruit" depend on a good product with a lifetime warranty or are there strings attached? Is there real integrity in our motives and actions, or is it merely implied?
What about faith? Can they depend on us to pray when they pour out their hearts like water on thirsty ground? Is there a record of integrity in our warranty that assures them that we will, indeed, stand in the gap, and storm the gates of hell with nothing but a water pistol, if necessary, with faith that doesn't wear-out or rust-out?!
When I think about these things and my response to them, it doesn't take very long to discover how my precious Jesus has handled my warranty. It's unconditional and extends beyond a lifetime...to eternity. His personal integrity is more than enough to cover any situation that presents a claim. I can depend on Him...ALWAYS!
It is my earnest hope that we will always strive to be as sincere with the things He has trusted us with, as He has been faithful and true to us. When there is injury, we will offer pardon---no limitations, no expiration. When we love, we will love completely...no strings attached. When we are good and kind...let it be with a pure heart, no expectations for return. Simply put, let our lives come with a lifetime warranty, that others might know that we offer ourselves without reservation, with integrity, that God might be glorified in us always.
Friday, September 30, 2011
it makes a difference
Does anyone else remember the 'little' song that we learned in Sunday School?
"Oh, be careful little eyes what you see---
oh, be careful little eyes what you see---
for the Father up above is looking down with love, so be careful little eyes what you see."
And then, there's the rest of it:
"...be careful little ears what you hear...be careful little mouth what you say...be careful little hands what you do...be careful little feet where you go..."
Still very good advice! But, perhaps not quite thorough enough. I'm adding to the list, "Oh, be careful little heart what you pray..."
When the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray, what resulted was the passage that we commonly call 'the Lord's Prayer.' "Our Father, which art in heaven..."
Most of us are very familiar with the prayer, having learned it by 'heart' at an early age, and hopefully we've been using it daily for many years. But, I wonder if we know what we are asking...
For instance, in the passage that pleads "forgive us our debts (transgressions) as we forgive our debtors (transgressors)," I wonder if we realize the raw power of that request. I wonder if we've even considered the ramifications of the true meaning of the words. Let me try to explain:
The key to understanding this phrase lies in the tiny two-letter word, 'as.' You see, when used in the function of a conjunction, it means "while." Okay, forgive me my debts while I forgive my debtors. That's all well and good. Reasonable. But, is it what Jesus was actually teaching us? I thought it was way too shallow on that level, so a few years ago, I pulled out the good, old Greek-English Lexicon and guess what I learned?! Don't worry, I won't keep you in suspense any longer. In this text the true usage of the word, 'as,' is an ADVERB! Now, that makes a tremendous difference. For you see, it doesn't mean 'while' you are doing something, it actually means so much more. It means "to the same degree or amount." WOW!
Do you see it? "Father, forgive me [today] THE SAME WAY that I forgive others." Therefore, when we withhold our forgiveness, or make it conditional, or give it grudgingly---we may be putting ourselves in a delicate position to receive much-needed forgiveness and comfort ourselves. Don't get all pious on me here---WE ALL NEED TO BE FORGIVEN. We have all done foolish things that caused hurt to ourselves or others and more importantly, to the Lord.
While contemplating the depth of the prayer, as Jesus intended, I also was reminded of a passage that Paul (the Apostle, not the Beatle) wrote to us via the Corinthians in II Cor. 9:1-12, but especially verses 6-8. Paul explains that when we give, it should always be from the heart: "...give, not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver."
The point I'm trying to make is that it's time to put on the mind of Christ...to think outside the box. For decades, this Corinthian passage has been used, primarily during 'Stewardship' sermons, to persuade us to give more. Perhaps, it is time to think about it on a broader scale, though. What if we allowed it to dictate the way with which we 'give' ANYTHING? We could apply it to our work---giving our hours to the boss/company cheerfully, not grudgingly. We could apply it to our families---doing our chores cheerfully, not grudgingly or of necessity. In fact, we could apply it to every area of our lives.
We could, especially, apply it to the way we choose to forgive...cheerfully, not grudgingly or of necessity. Then, and only then, will we be living with the mind of Christ when it comes to forgiving others. I believe He forgives me completely, freely, and cheerfully. He is happy whenever I have a change of heart, repenting of my shortcomings/sins (whether in thoughts, words or actions.) So, I must "be careful, little heart, what you pray." Praying that I be forgiven, just the same way that I forgive others, can be powerful. It could be a blessing or a curse.
But, I know a secret: "He hath set before you LIFE and the BLESSING [as well as] DEATH and the CURSING...THEREFORE, CHOOSE LIFE, WITH THE BLESSING!" (Deut. 30:19)
I think I will! One hour at a time, as He strengthens and encourages me, I believe I can forgive just the same way that He forgives me.
"Oh, be careful little eyes what you see---
oh, be careful little eyes what you see---
for the Father up above is looking down with love, so be careful little eyes what you see."
And then, there's the rest of it:
"...be careful little ears what you hear...be careful little mouth what you say...be careful little hands what you do...be careful little feet where you go..."
Still very good advice! But, perhaps not quite thorough enough. I'm adding to the list, "Oh, be careful little heart what you pray..."
When the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray, what resulted was the passage that we commonly call 'the Lord's Prayer.' "Our Father, which art in heaven..."
Most of us are very familiar with the prayer, having learned it by 'heart' at an early age, and hopefully we've been using it daily for many years. But, I wonder if we know what we are asking...
For instance, in the passage that pleads "forgive us our debts (transgressions) as we forgive our debtors (transgressors)," I wonder if we realize the raw power of that request. I wonder if we've even considered the ramifications of the true meaning of the words. Let me try to explain:
The key to understanding this phrase lies in the tiny two-letter word, 'as.' You see, when used in the function of a conjunction, it means "while." Okay, forgive me my debts while I forgive my debtors. That's all well and good. Reasonable. But, is it what Jesus was actually teaching us? I thought it was way too shallow on that level, so a few years ago, I pulled out the good, old Greek-English Lexicon and guess what I learned?! Don't worry, I won't keep you in suspense any longer. In this text the true usage of the word, 'as,' is an ADVERB! Now, that makes a tremendous difference. For you see, it doesn't mean 'while' you are doing something, it actually means so much more. It means "to the same degree or amount." WOW!
Do you see it? "Father, forgive me [today] THE SAME WAY that I forgive others." Therefore, when we withhold our forgiveness, or make it conditional, or give it grudgingly---we may be putting ourselves in a delicate position to receive much-needed forgiveness and comfort ourselves. Don't get all pious on me here---WE ALL NEED TO BE FORGIVEN. We have all done foolish things that caused hurt to ourselves or others and more importantly, to the Lord.
While contemplating the depth of the prayer, as Jesus intended, I also was reminded of a passage that Paul (the Apostle, not the Beatle) wrote to us via the Corinthians in II Cor. 9:1-12, but especially verses 6-8. Paul explains that when we give, it should always be from the heart: "...give, not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver."
The point I'm trying to make is that it's time to put on the mind of Christ...to think outside the box. For decades, this Corinthian passage has been used, primarily during 'Stewardship' sermons, to persuade us to give more. Perhaps, it is time to think about it on a broader scale, though. What if we allowed it to dictate the way with which we 'give' ANYTHING? We could apply it to our work---giving our hours to the boss/company cheerfully, not grudgingly. We could apply it to our families---doing our chores cheerfully, not grudgingly or of necessity. In fact, we could apply it to every area of our lives.
We could, especially, apply it to the way we choose to forgive...cheerfully, not grudgingly or of necessity. Then, and only then, will we be living with the mind of Christ when it comes to forgiving others. I believe He forgives me completely, freely, and cheerfully. He is happy whenever I have a change of heart, repenting of my shortcomings/sins (whether in thoughts, words or actions.) So, I must "be careful, little heart, what you pray." Praying that I be forgiven, just the same way that I forgive others, can be powerful. It could be a blessing or a curse.
But, I know a secret: "He hath set before you LIFE and the BLESSING [as well as] DEATH and the CURSING...THEREFORE, CHOOSE LIFE, WITH THE BLESSING!" (Deut. 30:19)
I think I will! One hour at a time, as He strengthens and encourages me, I believe I can forgive just the same way that He forgives me.
Friday, September 23, 2011
I still miss someone...
Johnny Cash was the kind of singer that you either liked or you didn't...there was no middle ground for most of us. Personally, I liked him "then," and I still do. With any of our favorite crooners though, there are still tunes that we like better than others, even by the same performer. Since we like the voice, it's usually the content...the lyrics, that we don't care for. With that in mind, I'll admit that I have my favorites, even with Johnny.
At this time of the year, I always think of a particular song that he sang. "I Still Miss Someone" is the name of the song..."At my door the leaves are falling...a cold, wild wind has come...people [ 'sweethearts' actually, but I prefer to use 'people,' as that includes all of us! ] walk by together, and I still miss someone." Obviously, it's just another love song, but it's still true...I do miss someone, and I miss her so much sometimes that I can hardly see through the tears. When is there a better time to sing a 'love' song?
Mommie Dearest, you were fortunate enough to be born on the first day of autumn, my favorite season of the year! And when the leaves start falling, I miss you so very much. There would be 79 candles on your cake today; we'd need to have the fire department standing by...just in case! Goodness gracious...all those flames and we're still under a burn ban!! All kidding aside, you have to know that you left me too soon...I wasn't done loving you and I will never stop missing you. The hole in my heart hasn't gotten any bigger, it just hasn't filled up. There just isn't anyone in this whole world who can take your place. Even though I am blessed beyond measure...I have a husband who adores me...just ask Mowgli! ;) and I have amazing children who have incredible mates and the grandchildren can't be compared to anyone else's---it just wouldn't be fair...yet, even so, I still miss YOU!
You were the most wonderful mother! Oh, and by the way, I bought Shel Silverstein's new book of poems today...primarily for this one poem! I knew you'd like it as much as I do.
SPIDER
"A spider lives inside my head
Who weaves a strange and wondrous web
Of silken threads and silver strings
To catch all sorts of flying things,
Like crumbs of thoughts and bits of smiles
And specks of dried-up tears,
And dust of dreams that catch and cling
For years and years and years..."
Yep, that just about says it all! There remain bits of all our conversations, all our wonderful moments spent together, all the smiles and all the tears...and that's where they stay...caught in a web spun from the silver cords of love, love so wonderful that we cannot put a value on it---it's simply priceless! Oh yes, I still miss someone...and I always have, I always do, and I always will.
One of the most precious bits clinging to that web is an image that is still so vibrant in my memory...I still recall how you looked when you tucked me in at bedtime. You would read me a Bible story and help me say my prayers, and then you'd read a few pages from a real 'chapter' book! One of my favorites was Joel Chandler's "Uncle Remus." You always did the "voices" better than anyone else. I remember that you still had your beautiful "work" clothes on, a stylish dress and classy heels! I remember the intoxicating fragrance of your perfume...back then it was Shalimar. (I used to slip into your bedroom and gingerly remove the glass stopper on the elegant bottle so I could smell 'you' when you were away.) So, there are phrases from Brer Fox and Brer Rabbit caught in that web, as well as wisps of Shalimar now and then.
How charming and lovely you were to me! How could I NOT miss someone so precious?! This world was lucky to have you as long as it did! Yes, I still miss someone, but I know that you're waiting in the doorway, gazing down the winding trail, scanning the horizon for your little red-haired girl, and someday, if you leave the light on, I'll find you again.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MY MOMMIE DEAREST!!!! (I've heard that Jesus throws awesome parties!)
At this time of the year, I always think of a particular song that he sang. "I Still Miss Someone" is the name of the song..."At my door the leaves are falling...a cold, wild wind has come...people [ 'sweethearts' actually, but I prefer to use 'people,' as that includes all of us! ] walk by together, and I still miss someone." Obviously, it's just another love song, but it's still true...I do miss someone, and I miss her so much sometimes that I can hardly see through the tears. When is there a better time to sing a 'love' song?
Mommie Dearest, you were fortunate enough to be born on the first day of autumn, my favorite season of the year! And when the leaves start falling, I miss you so very much. There would be 79 candles on your cake today; we'd need to have the fire department standing by...just in case! Goodness gracious...all those flames and we're still under a burn ban!! All kidding aside, you have to know that you left me too soon...I wasn't done loving you and I will never stop missing you. The hole in my heart hasn't gotten any bigger, it just hasn't filled up. There just isn't anyone in this whole world who can take your place. Even though I am blessed beyond measure...I have a husband who adores me...just ask Mowgli! ;) and I have amazing children who have incredible mates and the grandchildren can't be compared to anyone else's---it just wouldn't be fair...yet, even so, I still miss YOU!
You were the most wonderful mother! Oh, and by the way, I bought Shel Silverstein's new book of poems today...primarily for this one poem! I knew you'd like it as much as I do.
SPIDER
"A spider lives inside my head
Who weaves a strange and wondrous web
Of silken threads and silver strings
To catch all sorts of flying things,
Like crumbs of thoughts and bits of smiles
And specks of dried-up tears,
And dust of dreams that catch and cling
For years and years and years..."
Yep, that just about says it all! There remain bits of all our conversations, all our wonderful moments spent together, all the smiles and all the tears...and that's where they stay...caught in a web spun from the silver cords of love, love so wonderful that we cannot put a value on it---it's simply priceless! Oh yes, I still miss someone...and I always have, I always do, and I always will.
One of the most precious bits clinging to that web is an image that is still so vibrant in my memory...I still recall how you looked when you tucked me in at bedtime. You would read me a Bible story and help me say my prayers, and then you'd read a few pages from a real 'chapter' book! One of my favorites was Joel Chandler's "Uncle Remus." You always did the "voices" better than anyone else. I remember that you still had your beautiful "work" clothes on, a stylish dress and classy heels! I remember the intoxicating fragrance of your perfume...back then it was Shalimar. (I used to slip into your bedroom and gingerly remove the glass stopper on the elegant bottle so I could smell 'you' when you were away.) So, there are phrases from Brer Fox and Brer Rabbit caught in that web, as well as wisps of Shalimar now and then.
How charming and lovely you were to me! How could I NOT miss someone so precious?! This world was lucky to have you as long as it did! Yes, I still miss someone, but I know that you're waiting in the doorway, gazing down the winding trail, scanning the horizon for your little red-haired girl, and someday, if you leave the light on, I'll find you again.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MY MOMMIE DEAREST!!!! (I've heard that Jesus throws awesome parties!)
Thursday, September 22, 2011
dropping calls
I've never been accused of being a people-pleaser. To the contrary, I'm a bit of a rebel at times! However, I am, most definitely, a people-watcher! I enjoy watching the people around me. In fact, if stranded in an airport, I'd probably be just fine...as long as there were other people to watch!!!
Lately, I've been watching people and their relationship to their cell phone. Sound a bit odd? Maybe so, but nevertheless, that's what I find myself doing A LOT lately.
I think it is quite peculiar that we can't buy our groceries anymore without a cell phone activated. I've overheard loud one-sided conversations that Maury would love to get hold of! Nothing is really private anymore, nothing seems to be sacred either. How sad! How strange and sad it is.
With all this technology though, there is still a major problem...we don't always have "bars" when we think we need them...we lose our connection...we drop the call. You should see some of the outbursts that I have seen when that happens! You'd think we'd just lost our dearest friend instead of cell-phone service.
And that got me to thinking...
I am an early riser. I enjoy watching the new dawn slip in; I like to be there to welcome the new day. I enjoy spending time in the garden during the hour or so before daybreak. That's often where my quiet-time begins for the day. I wouldn't trade those moments for all the stars in the sky. Jerry leaves me to my quietude and then eventually joins me...and so begins our day.
But, what happens after that? I have become keenly aware that throughout the day I seem to be dropping calls. Let me explain that a little better. We check our cell phones several times a day. We make sure that we aren't missing calls or text messages. We sneak a peek at work---some people have actually lost their jobs because of their inability to leave their cell phones alone while they are working. And we all know the danger caused by the careless drivers around us who choose to text and drive, etc., etc., etc. We just can't stand it when we drop a call.
But, aren't we doing just that with our spiritual lives at times? We start the day "prayed up" and ready to tackle anything, but usually after only an hour or two, our zeal begins to fade. We aren't staying connected---we're dropping calls! The Holy Spirit urges us to come aside, for a minute or two; He has something He wants to discuss with us, but we're not in the zone anymore---we're dropping calls.
I wonder what would happen if we stayed as charged up spiritually as we keep our cell phones charged. What if there was as great a priority to recharge our spirits as there is to keep our phones charged and at-the-ready! And what if we actually took as much care with our praying as we did with our text messages to each other. I just wonder if it would make a difference. I believe it would.
I have challenged myself to take note of the way I handle my cell phone. I have asked the Lord to help me see what He sees whenever I check it. Missed call? No problem..."God bless my sweet friend and work mightily in their behalf. Give me the words to say when I call them back." Haven't received the call you were expecting? That's okay, too. "God, thank you for making me stop and check to see if there was any news. You know the situation. Bless my children."
The next time you're holding your cell phone, take a look at the contact list. Scroll down through it until your spirit flutters within you. Stop right then and say a prayer for that person. It only takes a few seconds. And by the way, this will work with Facebook, too. If you need to check your page often, then take a look at your friends list and pause for a minute and pray for them. Everyone is going through something---we all need all the help we can get. You can bet that I'll be thinking of you more frequently than I used to. I'll see your name (or your smiling face on Facebook) and I'm going to smile right back at you and say, "God bless my friend (mate, parent, daughter, son, grandchild, brother, sister, niece, nephew) today. Let them feel Your presence and love, Your mercy and grace. Grant them peace and health. I hope I can see them again soon."
I don't want to drop any more calls. God is calling...love is calling...it's time to answer.
Lately, I've been watching people and their relationship to their cell phone. Sound a bit odd? Maybe so, but nevertheless, that's what I find myself doing A LOT lately.
I think it is quite peculiar that we can't buy our groceries anymore without a cell phone activated. I've overheard loud one-sided conversations that Maury would love to get hold of! Nothing is really private anymore, nothing seems to be sacred either. How sad! How strange and sad it is.
With all this technology though, there is still a major problem...we don't always have "bars" when we think we need them...we lose our connection...we drop the call. You should see some of the outbursts that I have seen when that happens! You'd think we'd just lost our dearest friend instead of cell-phone service.
And that got me to thinking...
I am an early riser. I enjoy watching the new dawn slip in; I like to be there to welcome the new day. I enjoy spending time in the garden during the hour or so before daybreak. That's often where my quiet-time begins for the day. I wouldn't trade those moments for all the stars in the sky. Jerry leaves me to my quietude and then eventually joins me...and so begins our day.
But, what happens after that? I have become keenly aware that throughout the day I seem to be dropping calls. Let me explain that a little better. We check our cell phones several times a day. We make sure that we aren't missing calls or text messages. We sneak a peek at work---some people have actually lost their jobs because of their inability to leave their cell phones alone while they are working. And we all know the danger caused by the careless drivers around us who choose to text and drive, etc., etc., etc. We just can't stand it when we drop a call.
But, aren't we doing just that with our spiritual lives at times? We start the day "prayed up" and ready to tackle anything, but usually after only an hour or two, our zeal begins to fade. We aren't staying connected---we're dropping calls! The Holy Spirit urges us to come aside, for a minute or two; He has something He wants to discuss with us, but we're not in the zone anymore---we're dropping calls.
I wonder what would happen if we stayed as charged up spiritually as we keep our cell phones charged. What if there was as great a priority to recharge our spirits as there is to keep our phones charged and at-the-ready! And what if we actually took as much care with our praying as we did with our text messages to each other. I just wonder if it would make a difference. I believe it would.
I have challenged myself to take note of the way I handle my cell phone. I have asked the Lord to help me see what He sees whenever I check it. Missed call? No problem..."God bless my sweet friend and work mightily in their behalf. Give me the words to say when I call them back." Haven't received the call you were expecting? That's okay, too. "God, thank you for making me stop and check to see if there was any news. You know the situation. Bless my children."
The next time you're holding your cell phone, take a look at the contact list. Scroll down through it until your spirit flutters within you. Stop right then and say a prayer for that person. It only takes a few seconds. And by the way, this will work with Facebook, too. If you need to check your page often, then take a look at your friends list and pause for a minute and pray for them. Everyone is going through something---we all need all the help we can get. You can bet that I'll be thinking of you more frequently than I used to. I'll see your name (or your smiling face on Facebook) and I'm going to smile right back at you and say, "God bless my friend (mate, parent, daughter, son, grandchild, brother, sister, niece, nephew) today. Let them feel Your presence and love, Your mercy and grace. Grant them peace and health. I hope I can see them again soon."
I don't want to drop any more calls. God is calling...love is calling...it's time to answer.
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