Constancy in a Changing World...

~At New Year's, we challenge ourselves with resolutions to think about the changes we'd like to make in our lives. It's wonderful to think about those things that don't change- God's constant character... "our Middle C" as Max Lucado puts it.

Unchanging God
Malachi 1:1-4:6 (New book)

"I the Lord do not change." (Malachi 3:6)

Many things in our lives change... and as my friend Brandi would often remind me, this is always either troubling or comforting, depending on where you are at that point. We can be quite uncomfortable with change. This is seen in church through changing hymns and worship styles, different church facilities. But sometimes change is the thing we desire in our prayers. Either way... whether we are at the point of change or the point of desiring constancy, one thing needs to remain in our life... forever, always, all day, every day. God is the center of our life... the one we turn to when things seem unmanageable, unrecognizable, incomprehensible even. God's unchanging character is the comforting home that comforts our souls through the changing years.

Changing Appearance
Proverbs 31:10-31

"Charm can fool you, and beauty can trick you, but a woman who respects the Lord should be praised." (Proverbs 31:30)

God is the same always, but there are other things that people try to put their faith in... one such thing being appearances. And however many times we are told that appearances can be deceiving, the lesson doesn't seem to sink in quite well enough. I love this whole chapter of Proverbs. It actually reminds me of my Baba (grandmother) for two reasons. First, she had a bookmark of this chapter in her Bible which I found after she had died. And also, I really can see her model behavior as a wonderful wife and mother in this verse. As a young girl, you look at magazines and shows and movies, wishing you were the spitting image of all these idolized stars. But charm and beauty fade with time... what remains is the character hidden within each person. What I pray that I may be is a woman who respects the Lord... and I pray that people may see me for that unchanging character hidden within me.

Changing Earth
Revelation 21:1-22:21

"Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth." (Revelation 21:1)

On that day that we will someday see in the future, we will see a new heaven and a new earth. After a perfectly beautiful day of admiring and appreciating God's creation, I could be somewhat sad that the earth will change. But I know that the God who created this earth will create an even more beautiful earth... all things new. This reminds me of the resurrection fern I also learned of today which appears to die and wither out. But lo and behold, after a good rain, the fern will be revived again. Everything will be new, except for God that is. The Lord is "the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End" (Revelation 21:6). At the end of this year, it is important to remember both the fact that someday in the future the world as we know it will change... but our Lord will not- not at the beginning or end of any year. Amen, Lord... if it be your will, I will awake to the same You every morning.

Heart of Worship

Answer God
Zechariah 12:10-14:21

"Then they will call on me and I will answer them. I will say, 'You are my people,' and they will say, 'The Lord is our God.'" (Zechariah 13:9)

I truly believe that God is with us and among us, speaking to us still today. Perhaps we just do not take the time to listen for and really hear His word and will for our lives. Worship is one way that we may respond to God's powerful presence in our lives. Right now... as always... I am truly praying to God to help me discern His will for my life... how may I be best of use to further God's kingdom. Right now it still seems a blur, but this I know... in the meantime I can worship the God who has changed my life and given me this desire to follow Him.


Honor God
Psalm 149:6-9

"...God is honored by all who worship him." (Psalm 149:6)

The song goes, "Blessing and honor, glory and power, be unto the ancient of days." Our Lord is so deserving of all of this- all the honor I could ever give. In a society that seems to be losing the value of respect for others daily, it's hard to imagine what honoring God means. To me, it comes back to priorities... making it clear that God is the reason for our decisions, for our motives, for the way we live our lives. Living in a way that would honor our God... and following God's directions as outlined in the Bible. And of course, worship is an all important part of honoring the Lord... a part of our daily lives.


Thank God
Proverbs 31:1-9

"My son, I gave birth to you. You are the son I prayed for." (Proverbs 31:2)

All of the many wonderful parents I know are so thankful for their children, even more so those who have encountering difficulties before giving birth to their precious babies. I know so many parents who serve as wonderful role models... not only in how they raise their children but also in how they worship God with gratitude for these little children. While we may not all have children to be thankful for, we all must agree that we have so many blessings.

When I sit to think, I cannot begin to number them: one more day of life, a beautiful day with gorgeous weather, the beautiful natural surrounding here which God has so wonderfully created, a loving family that has helped me in my growth- spiritual, mental, educational, wonderful friends who have also encouraged me throughout the different stages of my life and so so much more. A great part of my runs is spent thanking God for my ability to enjoy running, the lovely environment and reflecting on the blessings of recent days.

Oh Lord, It's Hard to Be Humble...

~In high school, I clearly remember a trio who sang a song that went, "Oh Lord, it's hard to be humble... when you're perfect in every way." A funny song but sometimes painfully true. While we should not walk around with our faces to the ground, it is important to lift our heads with the knowledge that it is God's strength, salvation and wisdom that makes our lives the way they are.

Strength Comes from God
Zechariah 10:1-12:9

"I will strengthen the people of Judah and save the people of Joseph. I will bring them back, because I care about them. It will be as though I had never left them, because I am the Lord their God, and I will answer them." (Zechariah 10:6)

Like the rainbow after the storm, the Lord promises to be there for us... to strengthen us. Being in the Houston area and seeing some of the effects of the hurricane yesterday in the Galveston area has given me a whole new appreciation for this analogy. Both literal and figurative storms are so destructive, yet sometimes I feel I need them. Sometimes God needs to knock me off my feet for me to recognize that it is God's strength and not my own that takes me through each day and leads me through my life.


Salvation Comes from God
Psalm 149:1-5

"The Lord is pleased with his people; he saves the humble." (Psalm 149:4)

In our culture and society, we tend to think... I'm ok, everything's alright. And while that sort of thinking is grand... and quite in line with my often too optimistic spin on things... we need also to recognize that we ourselves are not as perfect as Jesus calls us to be. For this, we need a Savior. We all need to be saved from something- sins great or small including addictions, habits, sins of omission, etc. Humbly recognizing the fact that we are not enough on our own pleased God and allows us to really appreciate God's saving grace.


Wisdom Comes from God
Proverbs 30:32-33

"If you have been foolish and proud, or if you have planned evil, shut your mouth." (Proverbs 32)

There is a high school here that has proudly posted on its sign "The Best High School in Texas." And while the school seems quite beautiful, I'm wary of this bold announcement. That sets up some pretty high standards. Too many times I end up hastily making bold statements that I later regret. I'd rather be like my namesake Kate Rogers, who always thought very carefully and chose the sweetest most well-planned and humble words. I'm sure that such wisdom came from her humility and surrender to follow Jesus not just in everything she did but also in everything that she said.

A Different Kind of King

Gentle
Zechariah 7:1-9:17

"Rejoice greatly, people of Jerusalem! Shout for joy, people of Jerusalem! Your king is coming to you. He does what is right, and he saves. He is gentle and riding on a donkey, on the colt of a donkey. I will take away the chariots from Ephraim and the horses from Jerusalem. The bows used in war will be broken. The king will talk to the nations about peace." (Zechariah 9:9-10)

Gentle is probably one of the last things we think of when we think of the word "king." Or I guess today we would think of world leaders, prime ministers or presidents, since kings have gone out of fashion. None of those seem to work well with the descriptor "gentle." Actually, it's not a term that you would use to describe anyone in a position of authority really. Yet, God presents to us a new kind of king with such authority that His position isn't questioned by a gentle character. Most times presidents or principles even coaches feel the need to seem tough in order to keep "the troops" in line. Jesus already has all authority of heaven and earth. There is no power struggle... and no struggle necessary at all. This king will break the weapons of war and have the confidence to preach peace. Lord, I pray for that kind of a world... only made possible as we follow this new king.

Great
Psalm 148:7-14

"Praise the Lord, because he alone is great. He is more wonderful than heaven and earth." (Psalm 148:13)

This verse may seem to contradict our previous verse about the wonder and splendor of the animals and creation. Yet, we need only to recognize that the heaven and earth are wonderful and praise-worthy only for the fact that our Lord God has created them. All of the greatness inherent in nature, in anything really, has come from the Lord. This kind of a king is worthy of ALL praise... nothing else. Our Lord God is one... one great king for one kingdom, which we all await.

Just
Revelation 18:1-24

"Then I heard another voice from heaven saying: 'Come out of that city, my people, so that you will not share in her sins, so that you will not receive the disasters that will come to her." (Revelation 18:4)

This king is also just... wanting only to punish those who really merit the correction. As a teacher, we always need to be careful to correct those who need it. Don't reprimand the class who is there about mid-semester attendance. Instead, send emails to those who weren't in class. But, God is wise and just and knows each one of us and our sins. Even more, now that Jesus died for our sins, our punishment was already taken care of by our merciful and gracious new king. Oh King of Creation and King of my heart...

Small is Beautiful

The Earth
Zechariah 4:1-6:15

"The people should not think that small beginnings are unimportant." (Zechariah 4:10)

Zerubbabel had just started on the foundation of the Temple. It's like the start of so many New Year's Resolutions, or at least any that will prosper. That means, the beginning was slow. "Slow and steady wins the race." The idea is familiar to all of us, but in practice it's not very popular. We're a society that's looking for instant gratification. Fast whitening toothpaste. Even faster whitening toothpaste. The fastest whitening toothpaste! It's a crazy race to get there first. The same goes for technology. And many are familiar with the failures of get-rich-quick schemes and crash diets. Start small. Master that, and then move on. Small beginning, like those of Jesus... born in a humble manger, are not unimportant. Similarly, every time you plant a little seed of faith in someone's heart, it's a noble and important... albiet small... start.

The Sky
Psalm 148:1-6

"Praise him, all you shining stars." (Psalm 148:4)

Stars are strange to think about. From our perspective, here on earth, they seem such tiny "diamonds in the sky." Little glimmers of light, it is hard to imagine what these celestial bodies really are- huge spheres of light and energy off in the far beyond. They are really not small at all.

I feel the same way about my favorite Christmas presents this year. Though some may think them quite "small," to me they are the grandest gifts I could ever receive! A Royersford girl lunch gathering, a run by the beach with Carol and Jason and Chird, a song played on the piano by Jason and guitar by Eric, visits with many family friends- time spent with the people I love most! I'm encouraged that my Lord appreciates these gifts as well, recognizing that those they seem small, they are grand. And they are just one more reason to praise my Lord... for the blessing of His children.

The Animals
Proverbs 30:24-28

"There are four things on earth that are small, but they are very wise: Ants are not very strong, but they store up food in the summer. Rock badgers are not very powerful, but they can live among the rocks. Locusts have no king, but they all go forward in formation. Lizards can be caught in the hand, but they are found even in kings' palaces." (Proverbs 30:24-28)

I am so blessed to have traveled to so many different parts of this world and seen so many amazing landscapes and the creatures that inhabit those areas. While in Brazil this past Spring, I developed a special affinity for hummingbirds, thanks very much to the Pat and Dick Shreckhise who came to visit me. We found a lovely little cafe where we were content to spend hours watching and photographing and marveling at the beauty of these amazingly fast and splendidly crafted birds. So many different colors and sizes and well-suited to their needs.

It's wonderful to remember the small beauty of the hummingbird, when I myself feel so small in this world. Like the hummingbrid, I cannot do all things- swim across the ocean or dive tunnel through the ground. Still, as this Sunday school song reminds me, I can do my part.

What can I give Him small as I am?
If I were a shepherd, I would give a lamb.
If I were a wiseman, I would do my part.
Yet what can I give Him, I'll give my heart.

He's Here!!!!!

~At this wonderful time of year filled with visits to dearly loved family and friends, it's so wonderful to arrive at a house and hear the exclamation, "They're here!" Such was the case when we arrived at my cousins' house on Christmas Eve. What a beautiful feeling! They've been waiting in anticipation of my arrival just as much I have!!! May I only remember to express my anticipation and joy at the arrival of Jesus' birth, the gift of the Holy Spirit, and the promise of Christ's return. This time of year, I must go around the house proclaiming, "He's Here!"

Christ's Life Here
Zechariah 1:1-3:10

"'Shout and be glad, Jerusalem. I am coming, and I will live among you,' says the Lord." (Zechariah 2:10)

One of my favorite songs in Vacation Bible School was always, "Stand Up, Shout Out." Of course, it was a hit, because we were not only allowed but encouraged to shout when we sang/yelled "Shout Out!" Sometimes I agree that we should learn from children's vivacious spirit and exuberant energy- their excitement about the holidays and about Jesus' birthday. This is an exciting time of the year- Christ is here! Christ was born... took human form and lived among us! Shout Out!!!!

Holy Spirit Here
Psalm 147:12-20

"Jerusalem, praise the Lord; Jerusalem, praise your God. He makes your city gates strong and blesses your children inside. He brings peace to your country and fills you with the finest grain. He gives a command to the earth, and it quickly obeys him. He spreads the snow like wool and scatters the frost like ashes. He throws down hail like rocks. No one can stand the cold he sends. Then he gives a command, and it melts. He send the breeze, and the waters flow." (Psalm 147:12-18)

Jesus life here on earth is certainly something to shout about, but even more shout-worthy is the fact that the story doesn't end there! It's just the first book in a never-ending series of miracles and journeys and experiences with the Holy Spirit. God's Holy Spirit is alive and working in the world today. God's blessings and guidance are so evident in the world today. I need to constantly remind myself that I am God's servant... following the Holy Spirit's will for my life, especially when you're confronted with the ever popular "What next?" question. I may have my own plans, but I need to always follow God's plan for my life. After all the Lord is the center of my life... right here!

Christ's Return Here
Revelation 16:1-21

"Listen! I will come as a thief comes! Blessed are those who stay awake..." (Revelation 16:15)

Still, the fact that the Holy Spirit is guiding my life in my midst today is not the end of the story. Yet another sequel tells of Christ's return. So, we live out God's love and message for us waiting for that day and unknown hour when once again we can call... "He's Here!" Jesus, show me how to live faithful to you... awake in my heart, soul and mind... totally devoting my life to you.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T...

...that's what God desires of me. The dictionary would define respect as a "special regard" for something. Especially on this day of the miracle of miracles... Jesus son who was born to save us from ourselves, we must be in awe and respect for the Lord who does such great and wonderful things. And let us show this respect in action, in soul, and in word.

In Action
Haggai 1:1-2:23 (New book!)

"Then Haggai the prophet spoke the word of the Lord: 'Is it right for you to be living in fancy houses while the Temple is still in ruins?'" (Haggai1:3-4)

This verse is so very poignant, and I'm glad that Haggai speaks up. We can walk around saying that we don't have enough money to give to World Hunger Relief or time to work in a soup kitchen. Yet it's hard to buy that when we spend money on 'fancy houses' or other such items and spend time shopping or watching tv or other even less gainful activities. (I personally was sad to see the parking lot full at several bars that we passed yesterday... on Christmas Eve.) Haggai seems to remind us... first things first. Whatever is first in our hearts must be first on our agenda, in our actions.

In Soul
Psalm 147:7-11

"He is not impressed with the strength of a horse or with human might. The Lord is pleased with those who respect him, with those who trust his love." (Psalm 147:10-11)

I am strong in some ways- strong-willed and my legs must be quite strong since I know that several people would find a 20 mile run quite challenging. However, it's very nice to know that's not the kind of measure God's using. To please God I don't need to be the best athlete... very good to know since I'm quite uncoordinated. (My XC friends at Juniata used to joke about how we were 'rejects' from other sports. Without superior coordination, that left us as runners with lots of will power and determination.) To please God, I need to only be able to commit my soul- my mind and heart to respecting Jesus' holiness. Trust and respect is the perfect Christmas gift for my Lord Jesus. And Lord, I give it all to You!

In Word
Revelation 15:1-8

"Everyone will respect you, Lord, and will honor you. Only you are holy. All the nations will come and worship you because the right things you have done are now made known." (Revelation 15:4)

The angels in Revelation have it right. (They must have earned their wings already.-"It's a Wonderful Life") When we respect Jesus in action and in spirit, we are also motivated to express our reverence for our Lord and Savior in Word. And what a beautiful day to express such as sentiment... with song and through our prayer and relationships with others... praising Jesus today and always with the respect He deserves! Now... to the piano. ;o)

A Love Song for a Savior

Many popular Christmas tunes have linked love to this joyous season with lyrics such as "All I Want for Christmas is You." When I think about it, it's not so entirely off base. God's gift of His son, born to die for us in a manger so very long ago... that's the ultimate gift of love. And many verses have compared Jesus to the groom and his church to the bride. Where there is a wedding, there is in most cases a lovely love story. Even above and beyond Jesus' saving grace, He shows His abounding love for us with: a sonnet, a name, and a love!

A Sonnet
Zephaniah 1:1-3:20

"He will rejoice over you. You will rest in his love; he will sing and be joyful about you." (Zephaniah 3:17)

The movie "Moulin Rouge" contains one song that is a medley of just a few of the millions of love songs that exist... and this is for good reason. When you feel an emotion, a beautiful emotion so powerful as love, you feel moved to express it in some way. To sing and rejoice! If you've ever had anyone dedicate a song to you, sing a song to you, dance a song with you... you know how wonderfully special and unbelievably loved you feel in that moment. So loved in fact that you are calm and content and able to rest in that moment. This is the kind of love that Jesus offers us. In return, I can only hope to offer some of this same love... singing songs and rejoicing about the Savior I have who treasures each of us.

A Name
Psalm 147:1-6

"He counts the stars and names each one." (Psalm 147:4)

This morning I went to a lovely breakfast at the home of some very dear family friends- Jane and Greg, with their daughters Emma and Sara. Having worked at their family's bakery for over 9 years and growing to love and learn so much from them, they feel more like family than friends. But, one thing I've always loved is to watch the beautiful loving relationship between Jane and Greg over the years. I remember seeing Jane's face light up with the brightest smile when talking about Greg before we'd met him. But, the best part is that it still happens today... 8 years after their wedding day! Just last summer, I smiled every time I heard Jane call to "sweetheart" and Greg respond to his "dear."

I like to think that Jesus has such a sweet relationship with us. If He names each star, He must give us loving names too. What a beautiful love... where Jesus names me as His own.

A Love
Proverbs 30:18-19

"There are three things that are too hard for me, really four I do not understand: the way an eagle flies in the sky, the way a snake slides over a rock, the way a ship sails on the sea, and the way a man and a woman fall in love." (Proverbs 30:18-19)

I love being around my family at Christmastime. My family is special, because it's proven to me that love can work. In a disheartening society that would prove otherwise, divorce has yet to touch my family. For me, it's as exciting to see the loving interactions between my aunts and uncles, my mother and father as it is to see my cousins' growing families and plan for weddings that will soon take place!

This Proverb seems to be something I myself would exclaim. It's so hard to understand- the way a man and a woman fall in love. It's so hard to understand but for me, so beautiful to imagine... to imagine that God may yet guide me through a love as beautiful as those I have seen in my family. A love as beautiful as the love Jesus offers us, His church, His bride.

Time Keeps on Ticking, Ticking, Ticking...

God's Time
Habakkuk 1:1-3:19 (New book!)

"It is not yet time for the message to come true, but that time is coming soon; the message will come true. It may seem like a long time, but be patient and wait for it, because it will surely come; it will not be delayed." (Habakkuk 2:3)

Habakkuk is a funny book. In addition to the funny sounding name, the headings of the first sections are as follows: Habakkuk Complains, The Lord Answers, Habukkuk Complains Again, The Lord Answers. I can almost imagine this as a part of a Monty Python Skit where the following segment would be Habakkuk Compains Yet Again.

It also reminds me of those trips in the car where we would cry that familiar tune, "Are we there yet?" Yes, making our holiday trips to Allentown and Royersford and Frackville and wherever else the family was. My parents were dealing with snow and ice, but we were concerned with getting out of the car at our time. The holidays seem to constantly remind us that things do not happen according to our own schedules. Want to practice patience? Try a trip to the King of Prussia Mall, the grocery store, or just try leaving the house! A blessed little reminder that we are not in control of when things happen in the grand scheme of things. That raise, that price cut on gasoline, that healing, that new medication... whatever we are praying for... it will happen, as the beautiful hymn goes, "in His time."

God's Time is Always
Psalm 146:1-10

"The Lord will be King forever. Jerusalem, your God is everlasting. Praise the Lord!" (Psalm 146:10)

It sometimes seems so heartless to think that the person who really needs help or healing or comfort right now is not experiencing it. God, why? We want to ask, "Why not? Why not now? What could be more important?" But, it's hard to get outside of our earthly selves with our human concept of time. Perhaps we should time-travel back to when we were so young and that 30 year old cousin might as well have been 100 years old! God must smile as we plan our lives thinking so often of the here and now instead of the 'forever'... the eternity of God's reign and the Lord's kingdom.

Wait for God's Time
Revelation 13:1-18

"The beast was allowed to say proud words and words against God, and it was allowed to use its power for forty-two months. It used its mouth to speak against God, against God's name, against the place where God lives, and against all those who live in heaven. It was given power over every tribe, people, language, and nation. And all who live on earth will worship the beast- all the people since the beginning of the world whose names are not written in the Lamb's book of life. The Lamb is the One who was killed. Anyone who ears should listen. If you are to be a prisoner, then you will be a prisoner. If you are to be killed with the sword, then you will be killed with the sword. This means that God's holy people must have patience and faith." (Revation 13:5-10)

Revelation- what a book... one that people are often tempted to skip through. Reading this passage it's not too difficult to understand why. This beast seems horrific, but he will only be able to cause such terror for forty-two months. And the people seem to ask, "Well, what should our response be?" To that, John recommends nonresistance- "patience and faith." Those who are going to be imprisoned will be imprisoned. Those who are going to be killed will be killed. To see such pain in the world and remains strong in our faith as we wait for the Lord's reign will take tremendous faith and patience. This is why we need Christmastime... to keep our faith strong throughout the year, to remember the story that keeps us waiting patiently for the time of the Lord.

Destruction

Those Who Are Against God
Nahum 1:1-3:19

"The Lord will destroy anyone making plans against him. Trouble will not come a second time." (Nahum 1:9)

All of these verses today are quite unpleasant. "Making plans against [God]"... I wonder what that would entail exactly. What would it look like? And I myself wonder whether I do that more often than I'd like to admit. Though I try not make plans against God, sometimes I plan things just for me. We love to make plans and dream dreams... but it's so beautiful when God is at the center of all those plans and goals.

The Wicked
Psalm 145:17-21

"The Lord protects everyone who loves him, but he will destroy the wicked." (Psalm 145:20)

Again, it's all too easy to read this verse and say, "Thanks God. You'll destroy all those bad people... all the wicked... all my enemy." Well, things are not always such separate entities. I love to watch movies that question the motives of 'the bad guy.' Often perpetrators of all sorts of crimes have grown up in less than ideal situations- without a loving home, without a guiding presence, without education, without their basic needs. I pray that "the wicked" that the Lord will destroy are these types of situations, not the people.

The Earth and the Sea
Revelation 12:1-18

"But it will be terrible for the earth and the sea, because the devil has come down to you! He is filled with anger, because he knows he does not have much time." (Revelation 12:12)

The chapter states that some will be saved, those whose sins have been paid for by the blood of the lamb. The rest of the earth; however, will not be saved. This time of year, I am so thankful to remember the promise of a Savior who saves me from the devil in the end times. I will not face this destruction, Lord, because You have given me the victory.

Our Daily Bread

We Offer
Micah 6:1-7:20

"The Lord has told you, human, what is good; he has told you what he wants from you: to do what is right to other people, love being kind to others, and live humbly, obeying your God." (Micah 6:8)

One of my all time favorite verses, this portion of Micah answers the question- what should we offer to God? A tough question that we may ponder at this time of gift-giving. If Jesus were on our Christmas list, what would you buy for the one who gave his life for you???? Talk about buying for that 'person who has everything'! But we have an excellent answer- live out your love and appreciation through service, kindness, humility, and obedience. In addition to the little tokens I've bought this Christmas, I extend a more meaningful gift that comes without packaging- to show my love and appreciation to my family in this way- extending service, kindness, humility and obedience to them... in whatever way I can.

God Provides
Psalm 145:8-16

"All living things look to you for food, and you give it to them at the right time. You open your hand, and you satisfy all living things." (Psalm 145:15-16)

While we try to give appreciation to God, the Lord is the one that provides the most meaningful gifts... among those is 'help in times of struggle.' We are right to look to God for food- to stand at the door and knock. For God is merciful and kind and good, and God will satisfy our spiritual hunger. I love the word 'satisfy'. In Spanish, instead of saying that you are "full" at the end of a meal, you state that you are satisfied... you are content, you've had enough. God's daily bread, God's word certainly satisfies my hungry soul.

The World Takes
Proverbs 30:15a

"Greed has two daughters named 'Give' and 'Give.'" (Proverbs 30:15a)

My prayer this holiday season is that we may all focus on our gifts to one another and our Lord as mentioned in Micah and the wonderful presents given to us by God instead of the greed and materialism that pop culture seems to condone this time of year.

This verse is interesting as I see two meanings to it. First, I wonder whether 'Greed's' daughters may be left lacking and begging for their needs to be met. All of the truly wonderful loving fathers I have met are certainly anything but greedy. They've learned to put their families needs before their own. A greedy father? Seems a contradiction of terms. In fact, I wonder whether that is a reason we call our Lord "Abba, Father".

On the other hand, perhaps it refers to the fact that children (excepting the exceptional cases) tend to reflect the values parents instill in them at an early age. Perhaps Greed has taught his children 'greed' instead of contentment and satisfaction and giving. Perhaps they are like Baruka (from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory) who boldly sings, "I want the world! I want the whole world! Give it to me... NOW!" I'm very glad that my family, my church family, my extended family, etc have all taught me the value of contentment along with service, kindness, humility and obedience... which I can offer to my Lord who provides everything for me.

Let's Give 'Em Something to Talk About!

Go tell it on the mountain!
Lo! A child is born in the city of David!
The good news is so good that we need to tell it to everyone... through the way we praise God, the way we live our lives, and the words we speak to spread the good news. Come on- let's give 'em something to talk about!

Praise for Jesus!
Psalm 145:1-7

"I praise your greatness, my God the King; I will praise you forever and ever. I will praise you every day; I will praise you forever and ever. The Lord is great and worthy of our praise; no one can understand how great he is. Parents will tell their children what you have done. They will retell your mighty acts, wonderful majesty, and glory. And I will think about your miracles. They will tell about the amazing things you do, and I will tell how great you are. They will remember your great goodness and will sing about your fairness." (Psalm 145:1-7)

It's times like these when the world just seems so topsy turvy. Parents who have no qualms about talking to kids about Santa Claus and taking them to sit on his laps in department stores and malls refuse to share the best news of all. At the time of year when we should be telling our children about God and His miracles and His greatness and majesty and glory, parents are instead telling children all about Santa and his list and bag of toys. Now there's no problem with Santa. In fact there is great value in teaching children that belief isn't about seeing. (I always get teary-eyed at the end of The Miracle on 34th St.) But, we need to extend that, work off of that... help teach children that Jesus is great, that Jesus is the reason for the season, that jolly old rosy-cheeked Santa pales in comparison to Jesus! In order to show children what's really important, we need to talk about it.

Live like Jesus!
Proverbs 30:11-14

"Some people think they are pure, but they are not really free from evil. Some people have such a proud look! They look down on others. Some people have teeth like swords; their jaws seem full of knives. They want to remove the poor from the earth and the needy from the land." (Proverbs 30:12-14)

Last week's Sunday School lesson was about Jesus' humility in how he was born. (I think I mentioned this before, but it's always worth mentioning such a distinguishing fact about our personal Lord and Savior.) Jesus showed us how we should live in his humble birth where there was no room at the inn. I love the fact that in Mexico the tradition of "posada" (inn) continues.

Today I saw an example of not living out Jesus' message of humility. A man on the plane today refused to sit in one seat, unpleased for one reason or another. After the flight attendant found another seat, the man was enraged again with his seat partner. He simply would not stand for it! (Or sit for it, in this case.) The captain made a decision to ask the passenger to leave the plane. We were delayed for over an hour with the whole ordeal, but I can at least speak for myself when I say that what upset me was the man's attitude- he clearly felt better than the rest of us, a proud look that said, "I have a right to whatever seat I want!" Our seats, our positions, our houses, our dorm rooms... Jesus' birth teaches us that simple can be beautiful and we can spread Jesus' message by living humbly with our God.

Tell About Jesus!
Revelation 10:1-11

"Then I was told, 'You must prophesy again about many peoples, nations, languages and kings.'" (Revelation 10:11)

While this message is about prophesy, it also applies to the good news of Jesus. Whenever I have good news, I need to share it. I really need to! Often this may be to my friends' dismay. They know for a fact when I am excited about something, because I talk about it over and over again. For days this fall, I told everyone, "My family is coming to visit!" And this month, "I'm going home for Christmas on the 20th!" Over and over and over... this is just the way I should talk about Jesus... to everyone ever day!

Ch-ch-ch-changes...

~The COB Annual Conference, while a wonderful uplifting experience of gathering with Brethren from all over, also revolves around lots of decisions about polity issues. One pastor up on stage stated so eloquently, all those who oppose change, please put it in the offering plate. ;o) Funny play on words, but why do we all resist change so? Lord, I pray that You help me to really change... and become more the Christian that You want me to be.

God Changes Us
Micah 1:1-3:12 (New book!)

"Yes, people of Jacob, I will bring all of you together; I will bring together all those left alive in Israel. I will put them together like sheep in a pen, like a flock in its pasture; the place will be filled with many people." (Micah 2:12)

This is a great scripture, another promise of God to rescue His people... here meshed in all the harsh words about how they are so disobedient. This scripture reminds me of the passage in John that I recently read with my Bible Study group about the gate and the sheep and the shepherd (John 10). I wonder if it has some of the same symbolism, if it is a foreshadowing of sorts. At any rate, it's beautiful... "I will bring all of you together." It reminds me of the song, "Come Together." Just imagine how we as individuals, as communities, as believers, as a world would change... if we would come together. As the lovely hymn goes, I pray,

"Bind us together, Lord. Bind us together,
With chords that cannot be broken.
Bind us together, Lord. Bind us together.
Bind us together with love.

There is only one God.
There is only one King.
There is only one Body,
That is why we sing."

We Change Our Communities
Psalm 144:9-15

"Let our sons in their youth grow like plants. Let our daughters be like the decorated stones in the Temple. Let our barns be filled with crops of all kinds. Let our sheep in the fields have thousands and tens of thousands of lambs. Let our cattle be strong. Let no one break in. Let there be no war, no screams in our streets. Happy are those who are like this; happy are the people whose God is the Lord." (Psalm 144:12-15)

There are two levels of change that I identify in this scripture: first the change in the community itself and secondly the change in attitude- toward contentment. I am currently reading the book Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder. (I highly recommend it! I picked it up yesterday afternoon and have already read 100 pages!) The truth is, we have a responsibility to our 'sons' and 'daughters' to care for them and help them to grow, the same way we have to care for our land and animals and homes... and peace.

While the Psalmist is arguably praying about these things, to me it doesn't give the impression that he is standing idly by. It reminds me of the expression I've heard several times but most recently from Lise's father: "Pray as if everything depended on God, and live as if everything depended on you." In other words, with God's help... let's "be the change we want to see in the world."

We Change Our Hearts
Revelation 9:1-21

"The other people who were not killed by these terrible disasters still did not change their hearts and turn away from what they had made with their own hands. They did not stop worshiping demons and idols made of gold, silver, bronze, stone, and wood- things that cannot see or hear or walk. These people did not change their hearts and turn away from murder or evil magic, from their sexual sins or stealing." (Revelation 9:20-21)

Sometimes I can almost hear God shaking His head and saying, "Ah... will they ever learn?" As an English 101 teacher this past semester, I can sympathize. Just because you review over and over what a thesis statement is doesn't that will show up on the essays. Just because we see over and over again that a war isn't working doesn't mean governments will start looking for alternatives. Just because these people see others killed by these disasters- these crazy fire, smoke, and sulfur-breathing horses doesn't mean they will change their hearts. Yikes! I don't know, I kind of hope that would do it for me.

When I sing "Change my Heart, O God," I pray for just this. Alone it is so hard to change... I need God's life-altering power. Right now I suppose the area I need to change is control. I like to fool myself into thinking that I'm in control of things (not everything, but a lot of things). Sometimes this can be beneficial, because it empowers me to try to make a difference in whatever way that I can. But sometimes it's downright frustrating- I end up shouldering a lot of responsibility unnecessarily, carrying the weight of the world and believing that I should've been there. I need to continually remind myself that I don't have the power to always be there, but God does. God has all the control and the power to change people and communities and hearts.

Who You Gonna Call?

~God! Yes... when there's something strange... in the neighborhood... there's a better option than the Ghostbusters! Who knew? ;o) I for one am so thankful for God's protection in so many circumstances... from times I'm stuck in the belly of a whale to the moments I feel weak to the everyday providence of my needs.

Protection from Danger
Jonah 1:1-4:11 (New book!- and what a book it is!)

"When I was in danger, I called to the Lord, and he answered me. I was about to die, so I cried to you, and you heard my voice." (Jonah 2:1-2)

As I read and reread this beautiful passage, I found it so difficult to narrow down what I would really meditate upon... I feel this story is really worth at least a weeks study, probably much much more. It's so wonderfully strange really. "What's so strange?" Well, I'm glad you asked. ;o)
1. Jonah actually tells the people on the ship that he's running away from the Lord (1:10). When was the last time you heard someone tell you that?
2. Jonah suggests having them throw him into the sea to calm it down (1:12)!
3. And while inside the fish, Jonah prays about God saving him... praying as if God has already saved him (2:1-2).

Ok, so the peculiarities and beauty of this passage don't stop there... but that's what I'd like to write about today. Jonah is an amazing character in that he displays the ability to pray with the utmost confidence that God is listening and capable of protecting him from his present danger. He's so confident, in fact, that he prays as if it has already happened. I know, I know... this seems to be in direct conflict with yesterday's reflection on "Amen" or "So be it." But, I think there is a complementary relationship hidden there. We pray, knowing that God is our protector from danger, knowing that He will protect us somehow... how exactly? We're not quite sure... "so be it."

Protection from my own Weakness
Psalm 144:1-8

"He protects me like a strong, walled city, and he loves me. He is my defender and my Savior, my shield and my protection." (Psalm 144:2)

I think Max Lucado puts it very well when he talks about each of us being a "bruised reed". I cannot think of anyone I know, save the very very young, who have not been through any difficulty in their life. (Perhaps even the young aren't an exception, but their world is smaller so smaller things seem to be of greater importance.) Max suggests that we have been bruised by "harsh words, a friend's anger," a co-worker or boss's betrayal... it seems that everyone wants to give up on us because of our imperfections, our bruises.

But God offers us protection from this rejection, the world that wants to break us for admitting our own vulnerability. It's funny, but until the 4th or 5th time I read this passage, I didn't take in the word "love." Such an important element of this scripture! Many (our ghost-busting friends included) want to offer us protection for the price of a fancy alarm system or gaurd dog or secure bank account... but they do not offer us love as well. God's protection comes with love... He is not only my protector but my Savior!

Protection through Providing for my Needs
Proverbs 30:7-9

"I ask two things from you, Lord. Don't refuse me before I die. Keep me from lying and being dishonest. And don't make me either rich or poor; just give me enough food for each day. If I have too much, I might reject you and say, 'I don't know the Lord.' If I am poor I might steal and disgrace the name of my God.'" (Proverbs 30:7-9)

These verses touch on such a complex issue- 'rich' and 'poor'- a social construct, relative to the person and society with which you are surrounded.

I've told many people about where I lived in Campo Limpo, and I loved my home so much that I'd talk about the people and the places and the wonderful things I'd see day to day. When people came to visit me and were shocked with what the place actually looked like, I remembered that I needed to change my tune somewhat... remembering that people back home might see it without my rose-colored glasses, painted such by my wonderful friendships with the paulistas.

My friends from Campinas... or even other neighborhoods in Campo Limpo would ask me about "life in the favela." "What favela?" I would think, because to my neighbors and I ... we didn't live in the favela. To us, the favela was down the hill from us. Yet to those people, the favela was probably in some other corner of the city. Who lives in a favela? Who is 'rich' and who is 'poor'?

Yes, our needs must be met for a certain level of society... so that people may not be 'dying in poverty' (like David Radcliff, I agree that there is no such thing as 'living' in truely impoverished situations). But these verses seem to wisely pray for 'contentment'- that the Lord provide enough for each day. My daily bread, my daily manna... Lord, protect me from rejecting you (as the rich sometimes do) or dishonesty (as the poor sometimes do) by being content with the way You protect me... and provide my daily needs.

Amen- So Be It

~I've always loved singing the round of "Amen" around a camp fire or at a worship service, and I remember coming back from Brazil and shocking my church families by responding to statements with a hearty, "Amen" like my Brazilian irmaos e irmas. When we really think about what "Amen" implies, it's an important acknowledgment of handing everything over to the will of God- the perfect ending for a prayer, really.

Judgment is God's
Obadiah 1-21 (New book!)

"The Lord's day of judging is coming soon to all the nations." (Obadiah 15)

In Obadiah, the Lord speaks out against Edom. Edom is busy passing judgment on Judah- laughing and rejoicing that Judah has been destroyed, taking their treasure in times of trouble. But, God says, "The same evil things you did to other people will happen to you; they will come back upon your own head" (15).

While I love the holidays, especially getting together with family and friends, there is sometimes an unfortunate "air" (and err") of judging that presents itself. People who don't see each other measure themselves up with regards to tons of things- kids, income, job, friends, health, age, etc. On this special day when the gift of Jesus was gift to ALL of us, we do well to remember that we are all brothers and sisters, with our differences yes, but only God will judge us justly and fairly... and we only are to love one another. "So be it."

Teaching is God's
Psalm 143:7-12

"Tell me in the morning about your love, because I trust you. Show me what I should do, because my prayers go up to you. Lord, save me from my enemies; I hide in you. Teach me to do what you want, because you are my God. Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground." (Psalm 143:8-10)

This is the one I am constantly praying for- God's guidance and teaching. Especially when I think I understand something completely, I am afraid that I might not quite know it. I might be missing something. I don't understand everything about the Lord, but the part that I do understand and know is so amazing, that I desire to know God more completely... to know God more every day. God, I so desire to do Your will for my life... please teach me what that is and where I might go. This is the way I choose to live- following Your lead... "Here I am, Lord." "So be it."

Praise is God's
Revelation 7:1-7

"All the angels were standing around the throne and the elders and the four living creatures. They bowed down on their faces before the throne and worshipped God, saying, 'Amen! Praise, glory, wisdom, thanks, honor, power, and strength belong to our God forever and ever. Amen!'" (Revelation 7:11-12)

The angels have the right idea... that I may be like these angels. I've recently been answering some reflective questions for my own personal benefit as well as a way to grow closer to my immediate family. One of the questions asked about my idea of the nature of God. Imagine... one question! That's worth over 1000 pages in and of itself. (In fact, I'm quite sure that even beyond the Bible, many books equivalent in length have been written on the topic.) God is everything! All praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength are His! Amen! Praise be to You, Lord God... for ALL that You are! "So be it."

Obey Your Thirst: Christ

~ I'm probably dating myself here, but when I was in high school, Sprite had a slogan: "Image is nothing. Thirst is everything. Obey your thirst: Sprite." While I've never been fond of Sprite (it reminds me of being sick), I liked most of this slogan. However, I'd change Sprite to Christ and thirst from a physical thirst to a thirst for spiritual living water. Then, we get: "Image is nothing. Thirst is everything. Obey your thirst: Christ." To quench our thirst, we must seek, pray, and asking for the living water offered to us through Jesus Christ. It's such a beautiful time of year to reflect on this... as we celebrate Jesus who came into a broken world to suffer death on the cross... to give us this water... so that we may never thirst again.

Searching for Living Water
Amos 8:1-9:15

"The Lord God says, 'The days are coming when I will cause a time of hunger in the land. The people will not be hungry for bread or thirsty for water, but they will be hungry for words from the Lord. They will wander from the Mediterranean Sea to the Dead Sea, from the north to the east. They will search for the word of the Lord, but they won't find it. At that time the beautiful young women and the young men will become weak from thirst. They make promises by the idol in Samaria and say, 'As surely as the god of Dan lives...' and, 'As surely as the god of Beersheba lives, we promise...' So they will fall and never get up again." (Amos 8:11-14)

This image of thirsting for God is extremely powerful for me. It reminds me of passages where we are told to feed and give water to our friends/neighbors/strangers/enemies. If we must look after the physical thirst and hunger of our brothers and sisters, how much more important it must be to care for their spiritual thirst/hunger! If we are to live like Jesus, we must offer the water that Jesus offered the Samaritan woman at the well.

And people are searching to quench their thirst in this world. It is so evident to me as people try to fill the God-shaped hole in their lives with fame, fortune, ambition, drugs, alcohol, sex, relationships of all kinds. People are missing something, but they don't know quite what, just like the song, "I still haven't found what I'm looking for..." Well, it is up to us to let people know that we've found it, and they can, too. With the promise of Jesus' living water, though we may fall down... we will get up again.

Praying for Living Water
Psalm 143:1-6

"I lift my hands to you in prayer. As a dry land needs rain, I thirst for you." (Psalm 143:6)

This psalm reminds me of the beautiful worship song, "Breathe." Though is doesn't speak to thirst specifically, both are illustrations of elements that are so essential to the whole of our lives. "I'm desperate for you. I'm lost without you." Here in Arizona, everyone loves when monsoon season comes. The much-needed rain makes it possible for this dry land to produce beautiful flowers and crops that will nourish many plants and animals. We need this same nourishment that comes from God's living water. And so we pray that the Lord give us our daily needs- the water of Jesus' promise, the food of God's word, and the air of the Holy Spirit.

Asking for Living Water
Proverbs 30:1-4

"I have not learned to be wise, and I don't know much about God, the Holy One. Who has gone up to heaven and come back down? Who can hold the wind in his hand? Who can gather up the waters in his coat? Who has set in place the ends of the earth? What is his name or his son's name? Tell me, if you know!" (Proverbs 30:3-4)

I am so encouraged by these verses, and impressed with the writer's faith. Some may wonder at that thought. Faith? But... he doesn't know anything... doesn't faith mean knowing? I personally don't see it that way. The author here recognizes that there are things he doesn't know... he has the knowledge that there are things he doesn't know, and he desperately wants to be let in on the secret! In order to ask these questions, you must have faith that there are answers out there, for isn't it much more comfortable to sit back and relax and say... well, I know it all.

In fact, while Agur proclaims himself that he has "not learned to be wise," the Bible's heading gives it the title... "Wise Words from Agur." That I may be so wise... to recognize all the things I don't yet know and the places where I need more living water poured into my life... so that I may be a fountain, flowing freely with Your Spirit, oh God.

Cry

For Sadness
Amos 6:1-7:17

"How terrible it will be for those who have an easy life in Jerusalem, for those who feel safe living on Mount Samaria. You think you are the important people of the best nation in the world; the Israelites come to you for help." (Amos 6:1)

Terrible. It must be terrible indeed, to have absolutely everything and then lose it all. Here God is lamenting that Israel will be destroyed, and these people who have "an easy life" and "feel safe" will lose it all. My brother is now in the DR, where he's adjusting to having running water and electricity at odd hours during the day and seeing so many people living in impoverished conditions. Yet, we can learn so much from these people- so little of some things, but so much faith. Sometimes we fool ourselves into thinking that our money or opportunities make us important, but I pray the Lord wakes us up... just like the Israelites. My brothers and sisters are always more important that I am.

For Mercy and Help
Psalm 142:1-7

"I cry out to the Lord; I pray to the Lord for mercy. I pour out my problems to him; I tell him my troubles. When I am afraid, you, Lord, know the way out." (Psalm 142:1-2)

What a blessing to call out to a Lord who listens to my cry. For mercy and help and comfort and patience and so many things... I have been crying out to the Lord so often lately. And I feel that this has made all the difference in my life as of late. I cry out recognizing that on my own I can't, but through God, I receive grace and unconditional love and direction and comfort. Lord, I will continue to cry to You. I need You, Lord.

For Wisdom
Revelation 5:1-14

"But there was no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth who could open the scroll or look inside it. I cried bitterly because there was no one who was worthy to open the scroll and look inside. But one of the elders said to me, "Do not cry! The Lion from the tribe of Judah, David's descendant, has won the victory so that he is able to open the scroll and its seven seals." (Revelation 5:3-5)

There is something about Revelation that is beautiful to me... poetic in a sense. I can see the images and feel the sentiments. I wonder what secrets are within the scroll that John doesn't tell us, even if he knows. But, one thing I do know- I can feel the urgency to read the message... since John cries bitterly. And we are told, "Do not cry!" Jesus, the Lion and the Messiah has won and can open the scroll for us. When we can't, Jesus can. Thank you for freeing me from these scared and painful tears. I can rest in You power, Lord.

God of Power, Protection and Holiness

Power
Amos 4:1-5:27

"Try to do good, not evil, so that you will live, and the Lord God All-Powerful will be with you."

We don't have to look far in this world to see people actually getting ahead by doing "evil." To make themselves look better or smarter, people often undermine or undervalue their classmates' ideas, opinions or findings. Today's message in church was about Jesus' humility in his birth and throughout his life. Sometimes I feel that a lot of evil that goes around could be taken care of just by adding some more humility to our lives. It's kind of hard to do evil to someone evil when you're "considering them to be better than yourself." And the reward for this good-doing? Our awesome and powerful God will be with us!

Protection
Psalm 141:5-10

"God, I look to you for help. I trust in you, Lord." (Psalm 141:8)

So many times, I have gone to God for help... from little tiny things like something that I've lost to huge things that need to change or friends/family that are hurting. And I keep running to the Lord in prayers of petition and guidance, because I trust in the Lord. I know that God is my source of help, and I trust God to do His will in my life when that is what I earnestly pray for... not always my will, not always what I'd prefer, not always right away... but I believe in the power of prayer, and thank God for His protection and guidance in my life.

Holy
Revelation 4:1-11

"Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty. He was, he is and he is coming." (Revelation 4:8)

Similar to this verse, "Agnus Dei" goes "Holy, Holy are You Lord God Almighty." I love it so much. I feel so close to God when I hear this song... and I somehow feel that the repetition of the simple and true verse comes so close to my own heart's song of praise for my dear Lord's holy character. Praise be to God, who is the one who is perfect in goodness and righteousness and worthy of all praise. Oh Lord, You are my God.

Continue

Keeping God's Commands
Amos 1:1-3:15 (New book!)

"This is what the Lord says: "For the many crimes of Judah, I will punish them. They rejected the teachings of the Lord and did not keep his commands..." (Amos 2:4)

Every section in these first two chapters of Amos starts "This is what the Lord says: 'For the many crimes of _____, I will punish them.'" While some of their crimes are more specifically outlines, here lies the issue. If we would truly keep God's commands, we simply could not commit crimes.

I'm reminded of the Jewish tradition to fix a Mezuzah (a tiny scroll with scripture, Deuteronomy 6:4-9, Deuteronomy 11:13-21) "upon the doorposts of thy house and thy gates." Perhaps that would help us to remember to keep God's word all day long. But too easily we become accustomed to what we see. We stop noticing things, because they become everyday. Lord, please help me to continue noticing all the places where I must keep Your commands.

Praying for Guidance
Psalm 141:1-4

"Lord, I call to you. Come quickly. Listen to me when I call to you. Let my prayer be like incense placed before you, and my praise like the evening sacrifice. Lord, help me control my tongue; help me be careful about what I say. Take away my desire to do evil or to join others in doing wrong." (Psalm 141:1-4)

I love the part of this scripture that reads "Come quickly." In fact, I didn't even really pay it much mind until the 3rd or 4th time I read through thee verses. Perhaps it wasn't even until I typed it out. We often call upon people in urgency, anxiously hoping to talk to them or see them or connect them right now. How much more so should we call upon the Lord with the same urgent recognition of the necessity of God's guidance in our lives. "Come quickly" seems so right to me right now- showing that eagerness to hear God's will and guidance for our lives, that we may continue in the paths of righteousness. Lord, I pray, knowing that I desperately need You: "Come quickly."

Strong in Faith
Revelations 3:1-22

"Continue strong in your faith so no one will take away your crown." (Revelations 3:11)

The old saying, "When the going gets tough, the tough get going" comes to mind, and it seems especially relevant to this hectic time in the semester. It's easy to run every morning, go to church on Sundays, do a morning devotion, and love your roommates and friends and family when things are relatively calm with low stress levels. But, it's in those high stress times when you need strength of character and strength of faith to keep a focus on what's important, where God is calling you. Continue strong... continue showing this world that there is another way and there is another focus and there is another crown (rather than the riches this world wants to promise).

What's In a Name?

The One and Only
Joel 1:1-3:21

"You will praise the name of the Lord your God, who has done miracles for you. My people will never again be shamed. Then you will know that I am among the people of Israel, that I am the Lord your God, and there is no other God." (Joel 2:26-27)

While I am appreciative of my name and my namesake, I have to admit that there are no shortages of "Katies"... or derivations of the various forms of Katherine. In school, a teacher would call on "Katie" to answer, and if I didn't know the answer I could wait for one of the other 3 or 4 to answer. ;o)

But, God is God... and there is no other God. There's no one else that can perform miracles or save us or grant us this miraculous peace and deep abundant joy. I know that this comes from the Lord, and I praise your name O God, the only one capable of filling my life with such wholeness (plenitud).

Worthy of Praise
Psalm 140:6-13

"I know the Lord will get justice for the poor and will defend the needy in court. Good people will praise his name; honest people will live in his presence." (Psalm 140:12-13)

There are some people who try to pick out the most outlandish and original names possible. (I'm reminded of the "Seinfeld" episode where George adamantly defends his name- Seven.) I don't see this as good or bad, merely inconsequential. A name is a name. It's what's behind the name that is praiseworthy or not.

And our God in all of His justice and goodness is certainly worthy of our praise, all day long. Lord, I pray that I may remember to praise your glorious name, for your glorious presence every day... all day!

A New Name
Revelations 2:1-29

"I will also give to each one who wins the victory a white stone with a new name written on it." (Revelation 2:17)

A new name! My very own! Wow, that's a special prize... especially speaking as someone who has "won" several such names: "Katimaria," "Kate" (kaych), "Katie O", "Hermanita," and the long-standing "Honey Bunny" from a storybook my dad always read to me. Luis Fernando Verissimo has a short story in which he argues that having a nickname is actually a vital part of building your relationship. I wouldn't go so far, but it is special.

But in this context, it's even more special. In fact, it's necessary. Our journey God-willing will change us, and we will need a fresh new name. Lord, I thank You for that day when You, my loving father, will whisper my name!

I'm Not Afraid of the Dark... Anymore

~This is just one line from the song sweetly sung by my cousin Sara in our church's Children's Christmas musical one year. She not only sang beautifully, but Sara was the cutest little lamb you ever did see! While Sara actually dressed the part, I believe we're all more like vulnerable little lambs than we'd like to admit. Why else would God repeat over and over- "Fear not! Do not be afraid!"

"Fear Not!" -For God is Loving
Hosea 13:1-14:9

"The Lord says, 'I will forgive them for leaving me and will love them freely, because I am not angry with them anymore.'" (Hosea 14:4)

Kids and puppies are the best example of this, although we really all do this to some degree. (It's just more comfortable to look at an example outside of ourselves first. ;o) Both kids and puppies do something wrong- mess up the house or make too much noise or take something they shouldn't have, and what happens? As soon as they recognize what they did was wrong, they've heard that slightly rising tone.... "Kaaatiiiiiiieeeee..." All of a sudden, it's a vanishing act! They've disappeared! Unfortunately, it's not out of sight and out of mind, so they are usually sought out.

But, they are afraid of going to the person they have disobeyed, disappointed, and hurt. So, they keep away. Not a very helpful strategy, but unfortunately I must admit I do this all the time. I think we doubt peoples' loving and forgiving nature. "Will they really forgive me? I feel so bad. Going to them will only make things worse." But with God, there is not reason to fear a reaction of guilt and shame and anger. God is loving and forgiving, and "not angry with [us] anymore."

"Fear Not!"- For God is Watching
Psalm 140:1-5

"Lord, guard me from the power of wicked people; protect me from cruel people who plan to trip me up. The proud hid a trap for me. They spread out a net beside the road; they set traps for me." (Psalm 140:4-5)

I'm reminded of "Alexander and the Terrible Horrible No Good Very Bad Day"- something we can all relate to. A day when nothing seems to go right at all for no apparent reason. Well, sometimes it seems like the world is against us. People are trying to catch us in our mistakes, the world makes doing the right thing seem impossible... or just plain "weird." Well, "Never fear! God is here!" God promises that we'll never be tested beyond what we can bare (1 Corinthians 10:13). So God while we may suffer some "terrible horrible no good very bad days," God will guard us from "too terrible horrible no good very bad days."

"Fear Not!"- For God is Great!
Revelation 1:1-20 (New book!)

"The Lord God says, 'I am the Alpha and the Omega. I am the One who is and was and is coming. I am the Almighty.'" (Revelation 1:8)

Wow, the Alpha and the Omega! The beginning and the end! (Reminds me of yesterday's lesson.) Well, it's true... if God is everything, then there is absolutely nothing to fear. Past, present, future- God is all encompassing... we cannot even fear anything in the future. Lord, let us all remember during this stressful and anxious time of the semester that we little lambs have nothing to fear, not even the dark.

Here

Among Us
Hosea 11:1-12:14

"I am God and not a human; I am the Holy One, and I am among you." (Hosea 11:9)

To me, my 'work space' in the Computer Center is the quintessential example of how you can be around many people without being 'with' any of them. I spend anywhere from 5-10 hours there a day, and yet it's quite possible to go without saying a word to anyone besides a whispered "hi." Quite unnatural for me, and as you can imagine- it was quite a shock coming from Campo Limpo. Ay, saudades!

But, that's why this verse is so special... the word "among"-in or through the midst of, in company or association with, etc (Merriam-Webster). God is really around and within us, in our company. Not just here- but here with us and within us. And not only that- here's the kicker! God is God! Sure, it's nice to have human company, but that's somewhat expected in this world with population as it is. But, to have the Holy One choose to come in our midst! That's pretty awesome!

All Day
Psalm 139:17-24

"God, your thoughts are precious to me. They are so many! If I could count them, they would be more than all the grains of sand. When I wake up, I am still with you." (Psalm 139:17-18)

Perhaps this verse is especially meaningful to me, because I love mornings. I never minded them horribly, but I've grown to appreciate them more over the years... the gift of a fresh new day! And I'm off for a run- a special time for me to greet the new day and contemplate this new loving gift of my God. People often wonder how I can go on these extremely long 15-20 mile runs... "Doesn't it get boring?" is the question I always hear. Well, sometimes it does get... tiring, but boring no. In the stillness and the silence, I reflect on so many things, pray my way through it, and just enjoy reveling in God's presence... something I forget to appreciate all too often.

Before His Glory
Jude 1-25 (New book!)

"God is strong and can help you not to fall. He can bring you before his glory without any wrong in you and can give you great joy." (Jude 24)

This semester I have seen more than ever the power of this great joy that God can give me through his glory. And this amazing joy and peace comes from God. I know I talk a lot about priorities, but it's exciting. I think I'm finally learning. If I start my day with God, everything else seems to fall into place more easily. All throughout my schooling, anything below a 95% was to be feared and avoided at all costs. Now, I can see a little more clearly. School work is important yes, but it's not "the be all and end all." An interesting phrase, with striking similarity to "the alpha and omega," "the beginning and the end." God is life, the rest is just details. When we really recognize that we can be set before God's glory, that God is among us at every moment, it all just seems so natural- and fills me with such great joy.

It's Personal, It's Not Business

~The famous line from The Godfather goes, "It's not personal, it's business." But, I tend to agree with Kathleen Kelly who wonders about the validity of this statement. "If it's not personal, what is it? Shouldn't it be personal? Doesn't it always start out being personal?" Well, as opposed to so many religions in the world today, Christianity is personal... a personal God, a personal Savior, and a personal community of believers to support us in our journey.

Overgrown Treasures
Hosea 9:1-10:15

"...Weeds will grow over their silver treasures, and thorns will drive them out of their tents." (Hosea 9:6)

Once again, these chapters deal with Israel's punishment, Israel has made its treasure "the pay of prostitutes," turning away from God. While they spend their lives sinning, they store up treasures of silver (wide screen tvs, computers, MP3s, Wii's). And poor things... they don't even recognize that weeds will grow over them (they will break, need to be repaired, go out of style, become incompatible with ever-newer technology). It's important to remember at this time of year, when the motto seems to be "buy, buy, buy" that our greatest treasure is already bought and paid for with Jesus' blood... it's only waiting to be picked up with the receipt of our faith.

God's Treasures
Psalm 139:13-16

"You made my whole being; you formed me in my mother's body. I praise you because you made me in an amazing and wonderful way. What you have done is wonderful. I know this very well. You saw my bones being formed as I took shape in my mother's body. When I was put together there, you saw my body as it was formed. All the days planned for me were written in your book before I was one day old." (Psalm 139:13-16)

If this isn't personal, I don't know what it? God knows me... and not only that... God has known me since even before I was born. Wonderful mothers that I know talk about the bond they feel with their children. I remember my cousin Marisa telling me with a smile and sparkle in her eye, "I've never loved anything so fast." The moment her eyes met her adorable little girl, she instantly loved her... probably even before that point. Well, just think of how much our God must love us all... God saw us even before the sonnogram could pick it up!!!

Family Treasures
3 John 1-15

"I have many things I want to write you, but I do not want to use pen and ink. I hope to see you soon and talk face to face. Peace to you. The friends here greet you. Please greet each friend there by name." (3 John 13-15)

The interactions of the early church, as described here are also extremely personal... something that we've sadly forgotten. There are churches right down the street from one another, but how many of those Christians greet one another, talk with each other, and pass the peace before heading into their respective buildings. I'm always encouraged by ecumenical services and even services within denominations that bring together Christ's children "face to face" so that we may encourage each other and "greet each other by name."

I've been lucky to experience many such occasions... most recently in GCF (Graduate Christian Fellowship), also when I went to Boston for the VEV (Volunteers Exploring Vocation) Conference, and the one that is most permanently engraved in my heart is the old tradition in Royersford for many churches to get together and celebrate love feast and communion. Some in plain dress, some with prayer coverings, but Christians just the same. We got together once a year, and I loved singing and praying and fellowshipping... a day of personal connections with God, Jesus, and brothers and sisters.

He, Watching Over Israel...

~One of my favorite memories is the Tri-County Chorus singing this anthem... "slumbers not nor sleep, he slumbers not nor sleeps." The comforting repetition of the soft verse affirmed the continuity of God's presence.

Watching Our Wrong Steps
Hosea 7:3-8:14

"But Israel has rejected what is good, so the enemy will chase them." (Hosea 8:3)

How many things God must see and think so foolish, just like "Israel's plans." I remember when I was still very young telling my little brother that, "You have to make choices like God is here, because He is." He hated when I said stuff like that... what an older sister to have to deal with! But God is here, and God is watching... our steps and our mis-steps.

Watching Wherever We Go
Psalm 139:7-12

"Where can I go to get away from your Spirit? Where can I run from you? If I go up to the heavens, you are there. If I lie down in the grave, you are there. If I rise with the sun in the east and settle in the west beyond the sea, even there you would guide me. With your right hand you would hold me. I could say, 'The darkness will hide me. Let the light around me turn into night.' But even the darkness is not dark to you. The night is as light as the day; darkness and light are the same to you." (Psalm 139:7-12)

If anyone has testing this, I certainly feel that I have. I've had more addresses than many people have in a lifetime! And every time I arrive in a new setting where I once again no nothing about the world or how things work, I praise the Lord for His constant presence. Thank you, Lord. And thank You for being here with us all right now... in the home stretch... we are weak and weary and exhausted and stressed, but still You are here in the midst of it all.

Watching Our Lives
2 John 1-13

"...I ask you that we love each other. And love means living the way God commanded us to live. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is this: Live a life of love." (2 John 5-6)

Just as I mentioned to my brother, God is watching the choices we make, watching our lives and the way that we live. And when we choose to live our lives for God, we must follow His command to live a life of love. Sounds simple... but we must look back at our example of true love- Jesus, who laid down his life for us. Lord, I don't know how to love that way, but please guide me as I try every day to follow your lead a little more closely. You watch me, and I watch You, through scripture, through teachers, through prayer, learning to live my life in love.

"Have Faith, Dan West!"

Most people probably aren't familiar with this all-time Brethren favorite children's story about Dan West, who founded Heifer International. When he dreamt up the idea, he was wondering, "How will this ever come into being?" A farmer offered, "Have Faith!" Dan said, "Well, I do have faith, but I need a cow." To this, the farmer replied, "No, have Faith... my cow." With Dan's faith and the other farmer's faith that moved him to give Faith, they created an organization that has worked to help stop hunger throughout the world.

I don't know what they expected. You read these types of stories to kids with these kinds of heroes. No wonder I was "ruined for life" by BVS. :o)

Faithful Love
Hosea 5:1-7:2

"The Lord says, 'Israel, what should I do with you? Judah, what should I do with you? Your faithfulness is like a morning mist, like the dew that goes away early in the day. I have warned you by my prophets that I will kill you and destroy you. My justice comes out like bright light. I want faithful love more than I want animal sacrifices." (Hosea 5:4-5)

The question can be asked- if your faith is like a morning mist, is it faith at all? I can hear the sadness and pain in God's voice. Has someone ever been unfaithful to you, to your friendship, to your secret. It's really painful. And if someone is unfaithful and then gives you a gift, what does that gift mean? It certainly doesn't mean what it might have. While our society tries to cover it up with flashy gifts and materialism, still the most meaningful gifts are those that come without a price tag. And God deserves all of the faithful love we can give to Him... and so much more! Lord, "great is thy faithfulness!" May I learn to always been faithful in my love for You.

Faithful Worship
Psalm 139:1-6

"Lord, you have examined me and you know all about me. You know when I sit down and when I get up. You know my thoughts before I think them. You know where I go and where I lie down. You know everything I do. Lord, even before I say a word, you already know it. You are all around me- in front and in back- and have put your hand on me. Your knowledge is amazing to me; it is more than I can understand." (Psalm 139:1-6)

And worthy, God is so worthy of all the worship we could ever offer Him. The Lord is just amazing... each day I amazed with new wonders about the world... the complexity of the human mind, the glorious creation of this world. This morning I took the time to praise the Lord for one such amazing gift as I sang "His Eye is on the Sparrow" to my church family. Similar to the theme in this psalm, if God's eye is on the sparrow (that tiny little bird), God's eye is also on us- all our "goings and comings."

Faithful Victory
1 John 5:1-21

"Loving God means obeying his commands. And God's commands are not too hard for us, because everyone who is a child of God conquers the world. And this is the victory that conquers the world- our faith. So the one who conquers the world is the person who believes that Jesus is the Son of God." (1 John 5:3-5)

Just like Dan West, when confronted with problems in the world, we can win. We can conquer it. We can make a difference, but not on our own. Our power to defeat the powers of the world comes from faith... and sometimes from Faith. Lord, I believe... thank you for the beauty of your salvation and the power that comes from having faith in You.

"Somebody Bigger than You and I"

~I love this song, especially the version from The Preacher's Wife.~

God's Love is Bigger
Hosea 3:1-4:19

"The Lord said to me again, 'God, show your love to a woman loved by someone else, who has been unfaithful to you. In the same way the Lord loves the people of Israel, even though they worship other gods and love to eat the raisin cakes.'" (Hosea 3:1)

Now, I'm not quite so concerned about Hosea's unfortunate lot in marrying this woman. The interesting part to me is how the Lord compares this woman to Israel. The people of Israel are unfaithful, worshiping other gods. It's like the cheating which is all-too-common in today's relationships. And the stunner... God loves Israel anyway! Now, what boyfriend or girlfriend would say... "I know you're a player, but still I love you?" I certainly wouldn't... even more controversial is if when married (as in Jesus and the church... his bride) we would still honor our commitment to love our cheating partner. I don't know who has it in them to really truly love under those circumstances... but God does. I stumble, I fall, I'm unfaithful at times... but God loves me anyhow.

God's Power is Bigger
Psalms 138:6-8

"Though the Lord is supreme, he takes care of those who are humble, but he stays away from the proud." (Psalm 138:6-7)

God's protection is difficult to deal with sometimes. Why some and not others? Why do some battle illness, sudden death, depression? I am certainly thankful that I am not God that I would need to make those decisions nor understand all that God decides to do or not do. But about God's power I have no doubts. As apparent in this verse, God takes care of the humble... which makes a lot of sense to me. Why take care of the proud? They wouldn't recognize it as God anyways... the proud would simply smile very pleased with themselves and say "Look at what a great job I did saving myself."

God's Spirit is Bigger

"My dear children, you belong to God and have defeated them; because God's Spirit, who is in you, is greater than the devil, who is in the world." (1 John 4:4)

When I look around at the state the world is in, I cannot help but see the devil in the world: fear, prejudice, injustice, inequity, violence. And for that reason it is so difficult to live "in the world and not of the world," but this verse holds an important key. God's Spirit is in us, and God is bigger and greater than anything Satan can throw at us. We certainly are "more than conquerors" with God on our side.

"What's This? What's This? There's Magic in the Air..."

Awesome Promises
Hosea 1:1-2:23

"I will say, 'You are my people' to those I had called 'not my people.' And they will say to me, 'You are my God.'" (Hosea 2:23)

Some may recognize this song from The Nightmare Before Christmas (a personal favorite). When Jack (the Pumpkin King) enters Christmastown for the first time, he is completely amazed and fascinated by all of the wonderful things he sees. So it should be the Bible. These stories are awesome! Take Hosea, the Lord is promising a time when the people of Judah and Israel will be joined together... and all will be called God's people. Unbelievable! I am God's! I wouldn't rather belong to anyone else. The Lord is my God! This is indeed worthy of singing about... may I show Jack's same passion and spirit to everyone... shouting and singing about God's awesome promises.

Awesome Actions
Psalm 138:4-5

"They will sing about what the Lord has done, because the Lord's glory is great." (Psalm 138:5)

Not only are God's promises great, but the Lord carries them over into action. I have seen it in my own life, heard it in others' lives, and I have read it in the Bible. God is faithful and carries through with his promises. And I would not be here today if it were not for my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I would be an aweful state so very painful to think about. Lord, thank you for saving me... through your awesome power and strength.

Awesome Love
1 John 3:1-24

"This is how we know what real love is: Jesus gave his life for us. So we should give our lives for our brothers and sisters." (1 John 3:16)

Talk about the epitomy of love. I think a very real problem in our society/culture today is that we have no clue what "love" means (myself included). We hear a million cliches in songs and movies. Nowadays, this word can mean anything from "I love coffee!" to "Peace, love and rock and roll" to "I love you, Grandma" to "Love you, sweetheart." What does it mean? And in some languages the word love has several different forms- querer v. amar, for example.

But, for my definition I look to the Bible. While the Corinthians passage spells out the characteristics of love, Jesus life and giving of his life is the true example of this love... how it is truly lived out. I constantly question... will I ever be able to love enough, Lord? The way you want me to love? A love like that is perfection, and I can only pray that the Lord teach me more about how to live out His example of amazing, awesome love.

Identity Crisis: Not Me, But Christ in Me

God's Purity
Daniel 11:2-12:13

"Many will be made clean, pure, and spotless, but the wicked will continue to be wicked." (Daniel 12:10)

I suppose everyone somewhere along the way has that common school project to research the meaning of your name. Along the way, I found that "Katherine" (and other versions thereof) means "pure one." Defined as "free from moral fault and guilt" (Merriam-Webster), Katie turns out to be quite an admirable name, one that I wish I could live up to. But the truth is that I don't. Those times that I do portray some aspect of purity, it is really not me- it is just Christ in me. As rightly told to Daniel, we are only "made clean, pure, spotless" (10). It is not of my own accord but Jesus' precious gift that cleanses me from my moral fault and guilt.

God's Strength
Psalm 138:1-3

"On the day I called to you, you answered me. You made me strong and brave." (Psalm 138:3)

Lifting my little 5 lbs. weights in the gym beside body-building guys doing resistance bench pressed with 100+ lbs., no one would mistake me for "strong." But physical strength isn't the full extent of my weakness. Though I love people, but I can be extremely timid before I get to know someone well.

In grade school, my teachers always expressed their concern to my parents that I was "painstakingly shy" and never talked. It is surprising then, that God would call me to talk in front of the church, lead Bible study groups, teach in front of a room full of students, go live in foreign countries, translate in front of 6000 people at conference, etc. To me, God is making it undeniably clear. I could not do these things of my own accord, but it is God's strength in me.

God's Teaching
1 John 2:1-29

"I write to you, young people, because you are strong; the teaching of God lives in you..." (1 John 2:14)

My cousin Ben is on my heart today as he celebrates one more year of life, and I can't help but think of him as I reflect on this verse. I am 5 years older than him, so I can so vividly remember when he was born. I created my own special 5-year-old hand-made card for my dad to take to the hospital. This was the first time a baby in the family was markedly younger than me.

Well, as Ben grew, roles reversed and in Children's Story, Seekers (weekday kid's program), and Sunday School, I began to learn so much from Ben's amazing insight into the scriptures... even at a very young age. I remember several grown-ups wondering whether he would become a pastor or perhaps a priest someday. Either way, I know that he's ministered to many... most definitely to me, and the teaching of God certainly lives in my little (although now not quite so little) cousin.

Tuesday's Child

Saved by Grace
Daniel 9:1-11:1

"...We do not ask these things because we are good; instead, we ask because of your mercy." (Daniel 9:18)

As the familiar Mother Goose rhyme goes, "Tuesday's child is full of grace." (Though I'm Friday's child, I always thought Tuesday's more admirable.) Yet, God is the only one that is full of grace, and God saves us and blesses us through His mercy and compassion, not because we are worthy.

In today's reading Daniel spends time praying, confessing his sins and those of Israel and praying for help, recognizing that he doesn't deserve it... but that even so, God is good in rescuing poor sinners. This is so contra- what the world tells us. Earn the best grades to attain the best job. Obtain the highest degree to achieve the highest salary. When all evidence points to earning your way through life, it's no wonder it's so hard for us to recognize that we can't earn our way into heaven. It sounds so easy, but sometimes it's difficult to accept that we are really not good enough on our own. We sin, we need to confess our sins, and we desperately need God's grace... a gift that we cannot earn but can only accept and appreciate and believe.

Shamed in Disgrace
Proverbs 29:15

"Correction and punishment make children wise, but those left alone will disgrace their mother." (Proverbs 29:15)

This verse is important on two levels at least. First, the literal- I saw it all too clearly in Campo Limpo. Children were often left to fend for themselves, since school lasted only half of the day and parents (oftentimes parent-singular, oftentimes mother) needed to work. Through no fault of their own, the children all too often got in trouble or ended up causing mischeif. That's why Marisa's work was so important in that setting- more than just teaching, she provided guidance, love and support for children who lacked that structure in their lives.

The other level would be the fact that we need guidance in our journey towards spiritual maturity... learning to practice prayer, study, giving and fellowship (to name a few). My sin is disgraceful for my heavenly Father, but I praise God that His abouding grace makes up for my disgrace. As a young child in Sunday School, I would sing, "Jesus Loves Even Me" and as I grew I've come to appreciate the sentiments of this beautiful hymn more and more.

Motivated by Grace
1 John 1:1-10 (New book today!)

"...God is light, and in him there is no darkness at all. So if we say we have fellowship with God, but we continue living in darkness, we are liars and do not follow the truth. But if we live in the light, as God is in the light, we can share fellowship with each other. Then the blood of Jesus, God's Son cleanses us from every sin." (1 John: 5-7)

Now here's that tricky catch all for accepting God's grace. It's not something you can use like a "get out of jail free card" from the popular game Monopoly. (Although people have gotten out of jail in several fun Bible stories, here this is mere illustration.) It's not like you can wake up every day and get yourself into whatever shenanigans you wish and then pray for forgiveness at the end of the day.

True confession of sins, true acceptance of God's unfathomable grace and love motivates us to live "in the light" and flee from the "darkness." It's made clear here that we are lying if we live in the aforementioned style with our "saved by grace disclaimer." Perhaps it's best understood through the example of agape love.

Within the bond of a traditionally loving parent-child relationship, there is a type of "unconditional love." Though the children know their parents will love them no matter what, they do not purposefully go out of their way to cause trouble or hurt or harm to their parents. Instead, they are motivated by love to express goodness and kindness and "light" to their loved ones. In the same way, if we truly accept God's grace, Jesus blood will cleanse us, and we will be motivated by love and adoration for our Savior to express Jesus' light in the world.

Waiting for the World to Change

A Changed Time
Daniel 7:1-8:27

"But Gabriel said to me, 'Human being, understand that this vision is about the time of the end.'" (8:17)

The end times... something I often (dare I say- conveniently) forget about. A lot of times, I feel that we simply "get used to" things, "grow accustomed" to the way things are... that motivation to make a difference simply fades away for the comfort of the familiar everyday.

A Changed Home
Psalm 137:1-6

"By the rivers in Babylon we sat and cried when we remembered Jerusalem. On the poplar trees nearby we hung our harps. Those who captured us asked us to sing; our enemies wanted happy songs. They said, 'Sing us a song about Jerusalem.'" (Psalm 137:1-3)

Anyone who has been forced from their homeland can relate to the sadness in this passage. But, can you imagine? That's like going up to someone who's mourning and saying, "Hey, let's go samba." While in some cultures that may work (perhaps the Irish wake), I'm reminded of the hymn "Let Me Be Your Servant." A line goes "I will weep when you are weeping. When you laugh, I'll laugh with you." Being with someone in their presence but also in their present state of emotions is true Christian friendship.

A Changed Heaven & Earth
2 Peter 3:1-18

"But the day of the Lord will come like a thief.... So what kind of people should you be? You should live holy lives and serve God as you wait for and look forward to the coming of the day of God... God made a promise to us, and we are waiting for a new heaven and a new earth where goodness lives." (10-13)

While it can be unsettling to think about this unexpected thief that will come at literally God-knows-what hour, it is also wonderful! It's described here as a promise... this new kingdom where goodness lives. And in the state of the world to day, a place where goodness lives seems like such a beautiful improvement. On my bike ride this morning, I was just thinking about how crazy the world must think me... and it's comforting to know that this world is not my true home. Someday a new kingdom will come, a new kingdom where I will fit in.

Free at Last!

From Lions
Daniel 5:1-6:28

"God rescues and saves people and does mighty miracles in heaven and on earth. He is the one who saved Daniel from the power of the lions." (Daniel 6:27)

Daniel Chapter 6- I can almost see my cousins and friends and I crawling around in the front of the sanctuary with golden yarn manes as we performed a little musical about this familiar story. Like our flame-resistant friends from Chapter 4, Daniel was caught in the most dangerous act of "praying to a God or human except [the king]" (6:7).

Now, a dark lion-infested cave with a rock blocking the entrance is not exactly 5 star accommodations, and I know I would've been shaking in my sandals... as it really takes far a less for me to get a little skittish. But, God, God that He is, "sent his angel to close the lions' mouths. They [did] not hurt [him], because [he was] innocent" (6:22). God saw the persecution of his servant Daniel and freed him from punishment for his faithfulness to God. Lord, help me to be as faithful as Daniel, always serving You no matter the consequences, because through You I have freedom from my sins.

From Egypt
Psalm 136:10-26

"He remembered us when we were in trouble. His love continues forever. He freed us from our enemies. His love continues forever." (Psalm 136:23-24)

The Psalmist is remembering how God saved His people and brought them out of Egypt- parting the Red Sea along the way. Our God is powerful, in parting the sea and defeating the enemies. And our God is merciful, in remembering us. I love that line: "He remembered us when we were in trouble" even more than all of the lines recounting the miracles. This remembering is so very important. Have you ever received a card from a special friend or a phone call when you least expected it?

Being remembered lets us know that we (and whatever trouble we are going through) are important to someone. When someone is hurting, often the most powerful thing we can do is be present with them... our presence speaks more than words- that we are there, that we care, that we remember. Lord thank You for freeing me from my troubles, by simply assuring me that You remember me.

From Evil
2 Peter 2:1-22

"[The false teachers] promise them freedom, but they themselves are not free. They are slaves of things that will be destroyed. For people are slaves of anything that controls them. They were made free from evil in the world by knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. But if they return to evil things and those things control them, then it is worse for them than it was before." (2 Peter 2:19-21)

Lots of people in our society today promise freedom- from stress, from worry, from work, from danger, from troubles, from sickness. However many of these routes to supposed 'freedom' lead us straight to entrapment. People become entangled in the bindings of dependency on medication or alcohol or pleasing others or (fill in the blank). It is our job to determine the difference between the false teachers and those that come from God, those that promise the freedom Jesus offers from our sins... that is one I desperately need. Lord, thank you for freeing me from the evil of the world... may I never be fooled by the promise of false freedom.