Friday, December 25, 2009

Blessings

I bless you all with joy and peace. It is a thing about peace that cannot be duplicated. That true shalom that comes from God can move you through a world of obstacles and keep you sane. It can keep you grounded when things are over the top -in good or in bad. Peace is really what we all want, but many times we search n the wrong places not knowing what true peace looks like.

When I was young we sang songs at my church of real joy and true peace. We sang as kids not really understanding the meaning. As I got older I know those snipets of real joy and true peace and long more for both. There comes a time when we all must face the realization that no one can provide joy or peace, that no job can give joy or peace. Oh yeah it can provide financial stability and comfort, but real joy and true peace . . .my, my.

Paul says it best: "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:4-9 NIV).

Merry Christmas!

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Joy this Season

It is all coming down down to this. Christmas Eve. What are you doing? Are you running tired from the hussle of the shoppers? Are you fretting tomorrow because you couldn't get what you wanted for someone - or that you won't get what you want from soneone? Are you cooked out?Shopped out? Traffic blocked out? Wow. Are you lonely? sad? upset? hurt? mad? What state of mind are you in today? Did you have to work and now are trying to get gifts wrapped? Are you trying to find one more gift so you can upstage someone else? So many reasons for giving gifts. So many ways to miss this season.

As believers we get so distracted so quickly. We don't take time to consider the birth of Christ. Oh we may slide in Luke 2 but to think about that event of the birth of Christ and to sit in wonder of what Jesus' birth, life, death and resurrection means to us individually is really something to contemplate.

I would think that we could work to help bless another because of the blessing we have received. We could contemplate this if we placed a higher priority on the real meaning if this season. Stop what you are doing and allow yourself a time of bliss in this season. Let the words "Merry Christmas" take on a new meaning of life and joy. That is what I wish for you -life and joy. Mery Christmas! type to you later.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Hold On

Hold tight. If it is snowing - enjoy how the covering of everything makes it all seem new. If it is raining- watch how the plants enjoy the nourishment. If the sun is not shining remember that it can shine in your heart because of God's love. Enjoy this season, don't sweat the small stuff. Don't fret that you did not send cards this year (I didn't either). Don't worry that the gift you wanted to give was too much for your budget, if others can't appreciate the thought don't worry about anything else.

Enjoy the season. Enjoy the reason for the season - Jesus. type to you later.

Friday, December 18, 2009

Things that Make You Smile

There are things that cause my heart to smile: the love of family, the majesty of mountains, the days when all falls right, when a sermon has found its target, seeing my family. I'm sure there are things that cause your heart to smile in spite of whatever you may be going through. Those things help provide that silver lining to the storm clouds that hover.

Ahhh yet there is something else. . . the peace of God that surpasses all understanding You cannot beat that. Is that peace that moves you in, around, and at times even through anything! With that peace nothing can take you down, turn you out, destroy you. Without that peace, your stuff is hit. Well you understand. So, the question becomes - How can you get that peace? For starters, have a real talk with Jesus. Oh yeah it sounds so cliche-ish but it is so real. Just talk. I know you have done it, but this time do it in the context of all the things that make you smile. It is because of God that you have smiles.

We are moving closer into a season that should be the happiest but is the saddest, most depressing for many people. Let this time be a time for you to give to another through the peace given you. Let this time be a time of joy flowing from you into others. Let your smiles flow over. I bless you with receiving the joy and peace that only comes God. type to you later.

Saturday, December 12, 2009

"Cry After" God

When was the last time you "cried after?" You know- cried after someone? Cried after a loss? Cried after? I mean cried. There have been times that I wasted precious tears - although at the time it really did seem important. Keep always in mind that every loss deserves a grief. Okay let's move on.

The other morning the Lord showed me how that energy could be used for something more powerful. Learn to want that relationship with God more than those relationships you have. It doesn't dismiss those relationships but enhances your spiritual well being. Learn to "cry after" God. Hmmmm. Have you ever "cried after" God? It's that same idea as the song inspired by Psalm 42, "As the deer panteth for the water, so my soul longeth after you. You alone are my heart's desire and I long to worship you."

To desire nothing more but to be in God's presence, wow! Look at how many things we long for and many of them mean us no good. But to be in God's presence, to move in God's will. . . yes.

This season, learn to "cry after God." Don't worry about anything else but focus on hearing from and then obeying God's will for your life. Try it. You will find peace and so much more. type to you later.

Friday, December 11, 2009

Let's Just Take in the Season

This is a season. Yes, it is a season of joy and celebration of the birth of Jesus. No, it is not the season of "what else can you buy?" Step a little closer. You see, there is more. If you can get excited about the love that One has so much for His people that He sent His son to redeem the people, then you can get excited about who you are and your heritage. You can bask in that love.

My son called me a few days ago. He thanked me for always trying to make this time of year a joy for him and others. He had been reminiscing on his younger days. We then talked about how the joy of this time is usually mulitplied because it is the time of the year. Now, what would happen to each of us in our own community if we all contiued spreading that joy? As the late F.G. Sampson (my former pastor) used to say, "glad you asked." You see, there are so many people hurting and they need just a look, a touch, a smile, a sincere inquery into how they are doing from us. They need a touch from God. You are that extension of God's love. You are the one to say, "it is real," it will get better," "there is hope." And there are times that you too need a touch. When the community of believers 'touch' one another in prayer and love there is healing, there is hope. There is hope!!!

This is your season! Your season of rebirth, of rejoice, of rediscovery. Accept this season as your gift from God and rejoice in what it brings.

Sunday, December 6, 2009

End of the Knot

As I was crocheting I had to take loose a section in order to change a pattern. I loosely balled the yarn and began to start afresh. Somewhere along the way the yarn tangled greatly so I started slowing pulling the big knot apart. After 7 or 8 minutes I received to pull the single strand. When I did the yarn flowed for a while until it was a small knot.

Isn't life like that? Too often we find ourselves pulling, pushing, trying to wrestle ourselves from some entangling situation or another. Ahhhh! But when we can stop and hear that voice saying "this is the way, walk in it," (Is. 30:21) we can find that one strand that moves us through the knot until there is none left.

Listen - and then follow. type to you later!

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Find Your Joy

Let this season be one in which you find your joy. Don't rely on another for your joy, it must come from within. Go ahead . . . that is your mission. Enjoy this day!! type to you later.

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Look Out

As I laid in the bed looking out of my window, I received my "aha" moment. To look out of the window, to see the trees, and to know that there is something so much larger than me. To know there is so much more to God's plan than just what I can see. When have you looked outside of the window of your circumstance? of what you can only see now? You are indeed a part of God's plan and there is so much more to you than you can see now. Happy Thanksgiving!

Start today celebrating your life by reading Habakkuk. It is only three chapters. Allow them to saturate. Journal the time. Oh yeah and enjoy this journey. type to you later.

Monday, November 23, 2009

All a part of the journey

A rose is a thing of beauty. Can you caress a rose without either being pricked by the thorns or bruising the tender petals? No, not unless you are very careful. Likewise you cannot embrace this journey without being pricked by life's little barbs.

Everything you want will never be what you get. Everyone does not think like you (a good thing). Learn to embrace this journey beauty and prickes. type to you later.

Saturday, November 21, 2009

Where have you come from?

Before you started reading this - what were you doing? Did you make an effort to read? Or did you grab it on the run? Sometimes in our search for what we are looking for- we realize that we don't know what that is. And so we flit from one flower to another examining the sweetness. There are some places that you prepare to enter by being quiet, turning off cell phones, you know what I mean? There are some that you get ready for, you clean up to enter, you dress a certain way. And there are some places that you must prepare mentally for - you remember your lines, your hours of study.

Ahhh! And there is a place where preparation is only to "be still, and know." In our hectic lives filled with so many stressors we are pulled almost apart. But- when we get still, and know. . . You see, getting still is not enough, the power is in knowing that God is God. Too often, we are physically still and mentally running. Don't believe me? Hmmmm. What happens when you are in corporate prayer? What happens when you are in a lecture? Your body is there but your mind is usually racing about many other things. You can't let go of where you came from in order to move into that particular moment.

When you let go of where you were in order to enter that place. When you get still, and focus on hearing, feeling, knowing, celebrating God you enter a different place. And in that place you can indeed be all that God has designed because you have left your corrupt image of self behind. That's the place to be. . . no matter what anyone thinks. . . not even you.

You can't stay there always. It's too great, so you have snippets. But that will sustain you. When you move from that place, move with that knowledge of who you are because of whose you are. And in that moving you help change the atmosphere because of where you have come from. Make great effort to get still. Go ahead try it now. I bless you with excitement in getting still and knowing that God is indeed God. type to you later!

Sunday, November 15, 2009

Shhhh

At what point do we quit asking for guidance and know instinctivly to follow Holy Spirit? Yes, there is a place of oneness when all else really does not matter. We can indeed function here because we are at one. At that point we can indeed hear, feel. . . We can know. . . we can be still and know that God is God.

There is a place that we can actually rise above whatever we go through only when we strive to get there. No, it is not easy, but it is indeed doable. All things are possible . . .

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Into the Darkness

I was reading something from my pastor, F.G.Sampson II, who has gone on. He used to quote it often.

"I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year,"Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown."

And he said, "Go out unto the darkness, put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than a light and safer than a known way."

So I went forth and finding the hand of God, trod gently into the night. And He led me toward the hills, and the breaking of day in the Lone East."

Just want to take a piece of that - "Go out into the darkness, put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than a light and safer than a known way."

Memories, and even then as Doc used to say, "I think I said something." He did.

With your hand in God's hand you can- you will find your way. Just be clear - your way may not be God's way. And since you have no clue of the way, why not let God lead you? Yeah, that is an old song. Why don't you let God lead you? All the way.
Watch what God is doing in your life. Oh yes, He is doing grand things. You can't follow unless you are watching. type to you later.

Dwelling

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty" (Ps.91:1 NIV) That dwells is a participle. So that puts a different spin on it, one a little deeper. It translates "dwelling" or "inhabiting." One who is dwelling in the shelter- the covering of the Most High - of God. Now make it personal - You who are dwelling under the covering of God. Whooo! Stop right there. Get there. Go there. You have the capability of being right there. Nothing else matters, but you dwelling under the covering of God. That gives you rest.

Yes, you long for rest. Yes, it is available. Rest-don't worry about all the stuff around you. There is no better place to be but dwelling under God's covering. Do not allow situations or events or people, places or things to interfere with you getting there - dwelling. My God. "Oh what peace we often forfeit, oh what needless pains we bear. . . "

You see, having a Bible open to Psalm 91 has no power. Having it in your heart holds the key to power. Ponder the awesome idea of dwelling under God covering. You see, whatever you go through you can handle it, because of your position. type to you later.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

No Limit

This is a reprint from my devotional, God Calling, and titled "No Limit"

"Unlimited supply, that is My Law. Oh! the unlimited Supply, and oh! the poor, blocked channels! Will you feel this, that there is no limit to My Power?

But man asks, and blasphemes in asking, such poor mean things. Do you not see how you wrong Me? I desire to give you a gift, and if you are content with the poor, and the mean, and the sordid, then you are insulting Me, the Giver.

"Ask what ye will and it shall be done unto you." How can I fulfil the promise is My work, not yours, to consider. . . .Have a big Faith, and expect big things, and you will get big things."

No limit, there is not much to say. Ponder these words today as you journey along. type to you later!

Monday, November 2, 2009

Seek

Let this day be day of wonder for you. How? Seek God this day. Don't worry about what others are doing, don't worry about how you may or may not be doing. You see, it only takes a willing heart to step out of the many intricacies of society and seek to hear Holy Spirit's directions, seek to feel the Love of Jesus, seek to know God. In your seeking stand as a vessel emptied out in order to receive. And in that "a ah" moment you will find God.

what will you do the next day? Do it all over again. type to you later.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Do You Hear Me?

How many times have we asked the question,"Did you hear me?" I was talking to an customer service representative on an issue we were having. I stated the problem and asked for a resolve. The rep asked the questions that I had answered already, not once but four times. Frustrated, I raised my voice and said, "Stop, put the script down, and listen to what I am saying." Then on the fifth time the rep finally passed me on to someone else who could not help me. I went through four levels all to no avail. They did not understand, could not hear, they were not listening.

The title of my children's book is "Do You Hear Me Jesus?" It is interesting that children understand that question better than we do. And they are bold enough to ask. The question itself is the approach and now is waiting.

Then promise in Jeremiah 29:12 is when we call on God, God will hear. God hears. That is enough there. Your resposibility is to approach and pray. Develop that habit approach and pray.

As you move through your day and stupidity arises, whether yours or someone else, call. When you absolutely have no clue- call. I bless your day with expectation of God's answer. type to you later!

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

The Plan, the Way, the Map

How many times have we been lost? It doesn't matter where, on a city street, a country road, on a new campus, putting together a toy or a piece of furniture, in a bad relationship, running with poison friends, making lifestyles that have not been positive. You get the picture. For many of us we know the way out of lost - ask someone, read the instructions, find the way out!

And then there are the times that we are not sure that we are lost, we thonk we know, we think we understand, we think we read correctly, but this is where we are. What do we do??? Who can help??? Sometimes those we turn to only serve to help us further along the lost trail-enablers.

Okay, I have to do it- there is a word from the Lord. (Okay -that felt good, but you know it is the truth.) "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jer.29:11). Don't go anywhere else. Stay right there. Let that sink in, As F.G. Sampson II, (Doc) used to say,"Hang that on the clothesline of your mind and let the Holy Ghost blow on it."

If God has the plan . . . If God has the way. . . If God wrote the map... Then why do we waste precious time caught up in stupidity - wandering, confused, and lost? If-if we have been given a map for our lives, the scriptures, then why is it that we do not search them to find our way? If we don't know how to search for real meaning for our lives, then a spiritual director comes in handy here. A director that will point you toward the word - that will point you toward God. In the meantime, the plan, the way, the map. The plan has been done, the way is doable, the map is available. Allow God to give you clear direction. Watch what God is doing in your life. Seek His will. type to you later.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Still Seeking

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the Lord, and will bring you back from captivity"(Jer. 29:11-13 NIV).

There is so much in this but I want to chat about being found- that is a promise! When we seek with our heart, we will find God.

I have not been on facebook in a few days- why? Too many people talking about nothing. Too many people talking to have their words in print. I'm talking about preachers that are just talking. Please -it is their perogative, but wouldn't it be better to talk out of your praise instead of talking about praise? Wouldn't it be better to worship out of your love for God instead of talking about it? I would rather be an extension of God's love than just telling someone about it. Can you feel me?

We have allowed facebook and twitter to find us. I ain't mad - I'm still on, but only every few days. I do care about my friends and family- so I pray. I do so much love being found by God. And so I want to acknowledge the times. You will be surprised to see what those times look like. Join me today- in seeking God. Don't forget to journal what you see, feel. In the meantime you can find me - seeking God. type to you later.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

A Sign

I was disturbed that this blog showed an astrological sign for me. I didn't put it on. So what does that mean? We must take great pains to make sure we are being represented correctly. That in turn allows us to represent properly. There is only one sign that I am under... and that is the sign of the cross, which is the standard. So tomorrow, think about your moves, think about what you do and what it says about you. type to you later!

Saturday, October 10, 2009

What Time Is It?

When was the last time someone asked you that question? Or when did you last ask someone that question? I wonder are we even aware of the time? I don't think so. You see, we move around like we haven't a care in the world when it comes to being about our Father's business. And so we lie, we lead others astray, we have lost our ability to make real differences is the lives of others. Secretly we long for what others have, yet we try to cut them down. Do we know what time it is?

As institutions that should aid others in helping them see, hear and know the awesomeness of God's plan for their lives-we fail. Call it what you want. We turn more people out than in. We pimp God's word and cause many to fall. Do we know what time it is?

As believers we abuse others by our actions, our thoughts. Do we know what time it is?

As I pondered the question I looked at my own life. And as many there are a few things I have right, and there things I have done wrong. As I grow more (you see, it is a process)I try to catch myself in what I do. How? Well - I have to listen to directions from Holy Spirit. No it is not anything 'holier than anyone else' it is just listening to Holy spirit's guidance. Many of you do so, but trick is not only to listen, but to follow instructions. WHOOOOOO! Even simple little ones like blessing another or praying for one when the image their face comes to your mind. Or like praying for those who misuse you. Or like saying a word to someone that you don't know. We can go, but you get it.

I have to be connected in communion with God. No, that is not necessarily praying in public but having a prayer life. In doing so you overcome so many things- because of that connection. Do you want to see it played out? You must read the scriptures. They are (as my son called them when he was young) God's road map. The thing about it that maps all read the same to everyone who views them. But while the words are the same, the mapping is different for each one who studies the scriptures. Try them!

Do you know what time it is? If you really knew, you wouldn't let petty mess cause you distress. You see, it is early, it is too late? It is too early for you to give up the race, it is too late for you back out. Let go o anything that causes you to miss hearing. God whispers comfort, encouragement, peace to you in so many ways.

Are you journaling? Read the third chapter of Ecclesiastes. Journal what you feel as you read. Consider this season. Is is time to let go or to hold on? Do you really know what time it is? type to you later.

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Play the Game

Okay, okay, how many of you play the game Bejeweled? I started playing on my daughter-in-law's phone and couldn't wait to get it on mine. That and Sudoku. Okay there is a new version, Bejeweled 2, and that is the base of my thoughts today. As Bejeweled, you match three jewels in a row and get points, or you can match 4 jewels in a row and get more points, or you can get five jewels in a row and get a star?I can't remember. I just know I like them. When you get the star you don't know what the jewel is but when you use it in a match it takes every jewel of its kind off the board, thus racking up big points.

I was playing well, but wanted to play better. So, I started trying to make five in a row happen. The more I tried to make five in a row, the more I lost threes. Finally I gave up and played the game. What I learned was that we do life the same way. We try to set it up to get the big scores while missing the many smaller scores. Do you see it? If we just dance the dance we will come to the big moves. We don't have to force it, and definitely not ignore the small ones on the way.
Just play the game.

I saw a commercial today that Carefirst advocates dancing as a way of living of strenghtening the heart. I said it already, in my book "The Drama of Dance in the Local Church." What better way to dance by doing it liturgically? I am also available for workshops for Drama, Dance and Formational Prayer. Call me, I will come (smile). The book is available from Amazon, Borders, Xulon Press.
type to you later

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Ah ha!

Today is my youngest grandson's birthday. After I talked to him via phone, I cried. The joy of watching a child grow into a beautiful wonder of 0od. Then I heard that a friend turned 60 today. I beemed with delight for him. Two very wise people born on this day. Of course there are others. And then I got a note from a friend, a well known pastor that was thinking about me. Wow! Yesterday, another well know preacher contacted me - she was thinking about me! Do you know how cool that is?
Have you considered those who are thinking and prayin for you? That is enough right there.

My friend yesterday said she had not heard the lightest in my voice in a few years. Wow! There comes a time when you just cannot let whatever you move though- be it God ordained or Satan ordered. You see if it God, then He will give you the saftey nets to move through - but you must move through. You do it by watching His moves - not yours. IF it is Satan, he is the defeated foe and you have been given power and authority to handle it (Luke 10:19)- you do so by following Holy Spirit's lead in your life. And even in the victories over Satan, don't get geeked about that, get geeked that your name is written. "Nevertheless, do not rejoice at this, that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that yur names are written in heaven" (Luke 10:20 NRSV).

Marvel this day at the joys life bring. They are there. Get excited with your role in God's work. He loves you and considers you "Beloved." Take in the ah ha monent with God today. type to you later.

Thursday, October 1, 2009

A New Day

Wake up! A new day has arrived with all the excitement the day can bring. That is how we should approach the new day. It is another chance. Another level - you've heard that before. It is. But what if the level does not go up but down? It is still another level. It is part of the journey. We can hold to the newness of the place.

"The thought of my affliction and my homelessness is wormwood and gall! My soul continually thinks of it and is bowed down within me. But this I call to mind and therefore have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never come to an end;they are ne every mornng;great is your faithfulness. 'The Lord is my portion,'says my soul, 'therefore I will hope in Him'" (Lam. 3:19-24 NRSV).

Have a great day! type to you later

Monday, September 28, 2009

back online

I was off line due to server problems. And I longed to get back online to hear from and to write to you. Then I thought about how we get offline in our spiritual life through so many ways. We can't hear from and don't communicate with God. It's really not so much about playing church as it is a gathering of believers. Not so much about how you act but how you love. You see, if you love, then your actions will change. If you get excited about a connection of like minded people, then you will want to gather. And yes, there will be those in that gathering that may be offline, but you just may be the one that offers the way back online. type to you later.

Friday, September 25, 2009

Where do we start?

We say we are watching God work in our lives. Sometimes, our watching is distracted by things we hold close, by people we follow, by situations we deem important. These can distract us from hearing, and from obeying God's will for our lives.

Where can we start? Two passages to help you:
Psalm 46:10 is a great place. "Be still, and know that I am God."
Zechariah 4:6 is another."'Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the Lord Almighty.

Your day is already in play. Take time to hear, to be still, to get direction from God. When you follow God's directions you really can better handle your day. When you watch for God's moves, you can better see your way. I bless you with excitement for God's revealing to you this day. type to you later.

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Keys

Today I opened a chest that is opened rarely. It is the chest that holds locks and keys. Most of the locks are from luggage along with their keys. So these items remain in place for a time when I can use them. But there were more keys that did not have locks attached. And some of the keys were not luggage keys.

I counted 27 extra keys. To what? Don't know. What can I do with them? Don't care. What does it all mean? It serves notice to me how we hold on to excess items that have no value, no meaning, no nothing. Yet we still have them. Although the keys do not have much weight, they are symbols of things that weigh us down.

Look around at "keys" in your life. They could be people, places, things, ideas but they no longer serve any purpose but to weigh you down. They have no value, no meaning, just something that you are hold on to for . . .whatever reason. This journey takes us many ways and we have opportunities to pick up, and to let go of some things. Pause, search your surroundings, are there "keys" that you have that hold no value? Get rid of them. Some things worked in the past, but they no longer work - let them go. You need to let go in order to receive what God has for you in the next leg of your journey.

I like it how Paul says it, "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus (Phil. 3:13 NIV). Can you let go? type to you later!

Monday, September 7, 2009

Sing a New Song

The old song said "Make new friends but keep thee old. One is silver and the other gold." To the silver and gold in my life, I bless you with peace during these interesting times, and with joy, that you can stand. Let that be the song for you this week. Bless another with a prayer for them.

Laboring

Greetings,

Happy Labor Day! How many of you need rest? How many of you have been laboring under one thing or another. Doing but getting nowhere, looking but not seeing, hearing, but not understanding? Is that anyone? I think so. It's called moving under your own power. And it really is a misnomer because you have no power. Think about it. Yes, we are given abilities to make things happen, yet when our things get in the way of God's plan for our lives and we get NOWHERE. Have you been there? Sure you have. We all have, and many of us are there now.



Wow, that is a lot to think about. So what can we do? How do we move ourselves out of the way? How do we move in the strength of the Lord? Hmmm. Well it's hard for us as we want to control everything. Yes we do, simultaneously, it can be simple. Can we start right here? Jesus beckons to us, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for am gentle and humbe in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" (Matt. 11:28-30 NIV). You know how we are, yes, we want the rest, but we skip past the first part -"come to me." So, if you are weary and burdened, it really doesn't matter what, but that you are weary. That you are tired . . . of the job, the lack of job, the man, the lack of man, the lack of understanding from others, the lonileness of your condition, the crying, the worry, the fear, the helping, the hurting, the pain, the lack of clarity, lack direction . . . . Whatever you are tired of- Come.



No, don't try to lay it down right now- that has been part of the problem, you have been trying it under your control. Just "come." Jesus beckons you to the altar wherever you are. Can you see it? It is not me who stands there - but Jesus. Not any preacher you know- but Jesus. This is your altar call. Don't do anything else. Don't look around to see what others are doing. Don't think that you can't come because of your title or position. Come - If when you arise to come -your burden tugs at you, drag it on. Don't let anything, anyone stop you from coming. It is Jesus who beckons you. Come. That's all



Come expecting to meet Jesus. Come expecting a miracle. Come expecting a manifestation of His grace, His provision, His healing, His love, come. Just do that - Don't think about anything else this week, but coming. Today, this week - Come to Jesus. That's all - Just do that. There is something powerful in the coming, something that says "I can't do this without you Lord." Come. Journal what happens in the "coming." Let me know.
Type to you later.

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Look at Yourself

It has again been a time in our history. As I watched the services for Senator Ted Kennedy I thought how much has changed, yet how much remains the same. I don't know if you watched as I did. I thought about the way that we get so caught up in other's lives. And then I thought how while there may not be as many watching our lives play out- they are watching. What will they say? What can they say? What are you doing that honors God? Just asking. How many people have you hurt? How many people have you destroyed with your mouth, with your actions? Just asking? How many people have you lied on? Lied to? Lied about? Just asking. How many times have you lied to yourself? Under the premise of being holy? Just asking.

Now is the time to make a change, a positive change. I bless you all with sincere enough hearts to accept your faults and begin to make a change. I bless you with peace as you grow this time. Begin to shape blessings for those you have hurt. Write them out, ask God for forgiveness and then go forward. Blessings for this week.

Friday, August 28, 2009

Letter to a friend

Well, I am on journey, and I have been in my desert place. It took almost three months before I realized it. God asked me one day "was I crying because I was with Him?" So I stopped crying - as much. I ran out of money, could not get any job- teaching, church, any other job, could not get any extra classes to teach. I spent over 300 dollars just sending out resumes. Then the Lord showed me to get still, He was the one movng me through this. Every time I got still someone would tell me about the perfect job for me and i would binge hunt again, for 8 hours a day I would apply.

Lost my house, my car, but kept my sanity. I have never been here before. I have worked two part-time jobs here but now they are done. I have been angry that creeps that cheat and lie and steal are progressing and I am like this. Then I began to understand - to hold on, be still and listen. This being still -I teach and preach about it, but it is rough. And I know that when I come out I will be so different. I am different now. I have some applications in in many places.

I have learned that this is really not about me, that I will survive, that I can rely on no one else but God. I am at my sister's house and that is hard- I have been on my on as long as I have been grown. But God. But God. So that is the reader's digest version. It has been a journey into that desert place that I never wanted to go. I marvel at the spiritual writers that went there but I wanted to 'be good' so that I didn't have to go there. I saw it as a strengthening but I understood it as a punishment. Oh but I have been so wrong. It is a remaking, repotting, rejuvenating, refreshing of the spirit in order to take the next leg of the journey. Wow, as my former pastor, the late F.G. Sampson would say, "Wake up and write that down." So I have better write what I just shared in my journal. Let's keep in touch. Take care dear heart. It is difficult but doable. We really must take our eyes from things seen to things unseen.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Stay

This journey has taken me to this place, and I wonder "how can I help others when I can't help myself?" I have been fed by ravens, as Elijah (1 Kings 17:6). And now am using oil in my house, as instructed by Elisha to the widow(2 Kings 4). I still search for income and watch for God's work in my life. So what does it all mean? You can not give up. Stay the journey.

Sunday, August 23, 2009

Going Up

(from my other blog)
As I left the South Capitol METRO and started my trek up to work I thought about the similarities between Capitol Hill and Jerusalem. That thought consumed my energy as I watched for the similarities and differences. I love coming up to Capitol Hill and watching as different people scurry about handing their business, whether it is the business of the nation, vacation, a learning experience, a biking trip, an artistic encounter or a personal sojourn, there is always something going on. I also love going up to Jerusalem. And I join those in scurrying around taking in as much of that experience as I can, whether learning or on personal sojourn; while the business of the nation, vacation, a religious encounter, or pilgrimage moves others to and fro. On my first trip to the old city I recognized that Jerusalem is a city that never sleeps. While in the evening the traffic appears to dies down on Capitol Hill, it too never sleeps with the closed meetings and other events.

On a Hill

Both Capitol Hill and Jerusalem are set on hills. Sometimes it gets tiring pulling the slow incline up Capitol Hill, but there is no other way, the nation’s business is handled on “the hill.” Jerusalem sits on two hills, somewhat like a tooth. Thank goodness that “the hill” is not a steep as Jerusalem. That is a real climb. I also decided on my first trip that Jesus and the disciples had to be physically fit to make those climbs from the Mount of Olives to Jerusalem and back. Scripturally Jerusalem was and still remains a place to be, whether it is for business, celebration, or pilgrimage. Jesus was brought as a child to Jerusalem. “When the time came for their purification, according to the law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord” (Luke 2:22 NRSV). During His life, Jesus joined others in many trips to Jerusalem. “While Jesus was going up to Jerusalem. . . .” (Matt. 20:17 NRSV).

Business

On Capitol Hill, bills are passed, laws are written, deals are struck, okay, sorry about that one, but you know it is true. And in our nation petitions are filled, protests are made, causes are presented. In one day alone, I participated in rallies for healthcare, (yes, everyone needs healthcare), strolled past elegantly created banners for one cause, and crudely made banners for another cause. I witnessed a silent protest in front of the Supreme Court, and people handing out brochures on another. It is all in a day’s work.

In Jerusalem laws are made, deals are struck and as we know, Jesus’ demise was hatched. “See, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be handed over to the chief priests and scribes, and they will condemn Him to death. . . .” (Matt. 20:18, Mark 10:33 NRSV). “See we are going up to Jerusalem, and everything that is written about the Son of Man by the prophets will be accomplished” (Luke 18:31 NRSV). “They were on the road, going up to Jerusalem. . . ” (Mark 10:32 NRSV).

Celebration

Around Capitol Hill there are many celebrations for many events, including the fireworks for the celebration of the nation. There are festivals celebrating the diversity of cultures in America. One of the largest celebration held was the inauguration of Barack Obama, yes, I was there, fortunately on the hill.



Scripturally, Jerusalem was the place to be for the festivals. “The Passover of the Jews was at was near, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.” (John 2:13 NRSV). “After this there was a festival of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem” (John 5:1 NRSV). Today many religions make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem just to say they have been there, just to witness the life of the historical Jesus, just to walk the places in scripture, just to be in that number.

Visitors

Visitors abound everywhere on the Hill whether trying to view a session or taking pictures of the historical sites or just sitting around trying to take it all in. It is overwhelming and many weary visitors find themselves deciding whether to take one more tour or to get back to the hotel for the day. I know, I have heard them. Tired, yet determined to see as much as they can, they leave with pictures, souvenirs, and memories of the nation’s capitol.


In Jerusalem, pretty much the same thing happens. Tired, yet determined to take in as much as one can of this once in a lifetime (for many) chance to be a part of something so significant to their faith belief. And they leave with pictures, souvenirs and memories. On my first trip to Jerusalem I was told it would be a trip that I would forever be unpacking. On my second trip I led a group there and I cried when I saw the walls of Jerusalem before me. Every time I read scripture – memories.

Going Up

As I thought about these two historically significant places I marveled at the “going up” and thought about another significant place where we “go up” – in prayer. And in this place of commune with God, we have that image of “going up,” to meet God, in that secret place. In that place we handle the business of prayer in giving thanks and placing our petitions, our anxieties before God and attempt to leave our worries and cares with God. “Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made know to God. And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:6&7 NRSV). In prayer, we celebrate God for who God is. For each time we visit, we sojourn, we linger in that place of prayer, we learn more of the awesomeness of God and we leave that place at little more spiritually transformed. That is cause for celebration in itself, to be more aware of our identity in God and to have spent more time with God. And then to present ourselves as one who has been “up,” with God, not boasting but with love for one another and caring about the concerns of mankind that concern God. If we take serious this time of going up in prayer then we return to do more of God’s work in our own way. And this time will indeed influence how we treat one another and how we go about caring for all of God’s people. We come down from that secret place and can better support the issues of justice for all. It is in going up before God that we come down with concerns for the injustices, be they economical, environmental, health related, and abuses of all kinds.

Whatever your cause, your concern, bathe it in prayer. I close with a note from Paul, and my sentiments also. “Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints. Pray also for me, so that when I speak, a message may be given to me to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it boldly, as I must speak” (Eph. 6:18-20 NRSV).

Saturday, August 1, 2009

Connect the Dots

Okay - stop!!! Get Still! BREATHE! Allow Holy Spirit to guide you into this quiet time. Don't look at another word . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Did you come straight to this point? Or did you follow the dots here? If you came straight to this point - not good. You are rushing through, and just like the first sentence above with the letters missing you are missing great moments with God. Did you follow the dots? Great!

Just as we used to play connect the dots when we were young - we didn't know what was at the end until we finished the dots. So now allow Holy Spirit to move you this day from dot to dot, and then try it tomorrow, and then the next day. Take it one day at a time. It really is a step of faith each moment, yet for each moment you allow God to guide you find yourself wanting more of what God wants for you. And when you get to the end of the journey the dots will have taken shape of the life you have produced. And if you have followed the dots correctly, Wow - what a shape!

My blessing today - that you find more of God in these moments, and more of what He had for you. SHHHHH! listen! "Be Still and know that I am God"(Ps. 46:10).

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

A Voice

A voice cries out: “In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD, make straight the way for the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God”(Is.40:3 NRSV).
I heard the music and tried to make out where it came from. Then I heard a voice singing songs of Zion. Now that is not so very strange but I was on the way to Union Station. And there across from the Massachusetts entrance was a lone man, singing on a microphone. I found myself singing along with him, “Blessed Assurance.” There beside him was a sign that said John 3:16. And then he began to play the music.

Why should this matter? Because, for this day, he was a voice crying in the wilderness of the District rush, “Make way for the Lord.” And I couldn’t help but wonder about my own plight, when I have been concerned that I am not doing organized ministry as I was, yet there is ministry all around. And I realized that I too needed to be the voice on e crying in the wilderness – make way for the Lord. After all, that really is what ministry is about, isn’t it?

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Allow access

It has been a little hectic, but that is the time to pray. So many are experiencing loss of income, loss of family, loss of shelter. And then there are those who are experiencing the opposite. Yeah, in both cases. I have learned that when we lean into God's will, it all does work out. Oh yeah -that is the Roman's passage. "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose" (Rom. 8:28 NIV). Pray over that today. Let it sync with your spirit (not just sink in). Allow God to bless you in whatever moment you are in.

That whatever moment for you will not be like mine, and mine will not be like yours; yet, together as community, we can pray for one another. We can bless another. The church is not praying enough, we are not praying enough. Let's change that starting now. We must. I hear Hezekiah Walker - I'll pray for you, you pray for me. Pray for direction, pray for clarity, pray for tolerance for those who do not look like, act like, think like you. After all Jesus has tolerated you. Let's shakeup the atmosphere now! Let's stand strong sister and sister. Let's hold the blood stained banner of Jesus (okay I went back a way for that, but those praying sisters had something).

Today I watched the memorial of Michael Jackson. I will miss his work. I applaud Al Sharpton's remark, and my heart goes out to the family and the children. G back and listen to his lyrics. Let me know what you find. Michael was very misunderstood. Look around you. Don't let another creative brillant shinning star burn out because you did nothing. Your prayer change the atmosphere.

Gcan blesses us in this moment or any other moment we find ourselves in, if we allow access. Take care and allow access to God.

Monday, June 22, 2009

More

You just really need to know about some things before attempting them. I think I may be from a time where I don't want everyone to know my business. I'm talking about facebook, although I am on it. Still, I believe it is helping me to be more tolerant of others. When I think that in God's garden there are so many flowers, each designed for a specific purpose and each contributes to the beauty of the garden. That helps me to remember to be more tolerant annd look for the beauty instead of looking at the stupid parts. Whew, let me take a deep breath- ahhhh. Look around, don't see what offends yoiu, see what brings brings joy to God.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Whisper

It is already in the wind. It is all around. Can you hear it? No? Could it be that you have been too plugged in, too up, too with it, that you can't hear that whisper? You really have to get to that place. The place where you can hear God's whisper of love of you. That gives you renewed energy to go on a little farther. Try it. The scripture says, "Be still and know that I am God." Be still. Type to you later.

Friday, June 5, 2009

Slow Down

As much as I like to be in the mix, on the go, with it - and even now, using facebook, twitter, linkedin - I think I would rather blog. While I have much to say, I have learned to slow down and contemplate. And this gives me a chance to slow down. As much as I love people, I love my private time also. And I think it is great to slow down-to think,to be still, to hear from God, and to hear your heart. Yes, that's it. Slow down. Listen for God's voice, slow down, watch your steps. Type to you later.

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

We have Choice to make

I miss the butterflies. How about you? I love watching them flit around with their elegant colors. Tell me God ain’t something! There are so many wonderful elements of Creation that we miss, and they are right there for us to care for and to enjoy! Unfortunately, there are so many species that we are losing all because of choices we have made. Yes, we made the choice to spray our lawns with pesticides because we don’t like what grows there. The pesticides are keeping the butterflies away because they are killing plants that attract the butterflies. Choices we make.

Joshua reminded the people of their blessings of life lived under the care of God. Then he urged that they make a very important decision, to follow God or the idols of their past. “I gave you a land on which you had not labored, and towns that you had not built, and you live in them; you eat the fruit of vineyards and olive yards that you did not plant. . . Choose this day whom you will serve . . . (Jos. 24:13,15 NRSV). Choices, we have choices. We are forced to make choices everyday that label us as believers and thus, keepers of Creation.

Creation is suffering from lack of safety and homelessness for many of its species; that is a given; however, many species have not only lost homes but they are in danger of losing their very existence. Animals, fishes, and birds that you know, and many you may not know are in grave danger. Surely we can all relate to at least one joy of Creation that is on the list: Elephants, Giant Panda, Polar Bear, Rhinos, Whales, Tigers, Dolphins, Penguins and Monarch Butterflies. Come on, I know you saw Happy Feet, didn’t you? And the butterflies – haven’t you wondered where they have gone? These are just a very small representation of the many species on the list of becoming endangered.

We celebrate May 15 as Endangered Species Day. What can you do celebrate? Glad you asked. Just being aware is no longer enough. You have more power than you think. I encourage you to exercise that power. Discuss the lost of valuable species with your family and friends. “In his hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of every human being” (Job 12:10 NRSV). Please understand, all of Creation is important to God. And what else can you do? Remember the butterflies! Grow plants that will bring the butterflies. Read up on Monarch watch stations. And what else can you do? See, I told you, you have choices. Choose this day to do something constructive for Endangered Species Day. Let me know how it goes. For more information on Endangered Species Day, view my blog http://ecojustice.wordpress.com

Saturday, April 4, 2009

Alone time

There is still something unsettling about following God when others are following their own way. I say unsettling because they cannot understand why you do what you do. Unsettling because sometimes you cannot understand why you do what you do. There was a time when I loved to be with people. Then the time came that I loved to be alone with God. And yes, there are times that I cannot hear, but I know He is there.

I heard a few people in a class say that hearing God was not real. My, My. One even said that it was just our conscious; but backed herself in a hole because she acknowledged that some people have no conscious. The teacher did not help the class at all. Oh, I failed to mention that this was a Sunday School class. It was a sad indictment on what we are teaching, or not teaching. The sad part is that God does speak to us in so many ways, if we would only listen. And that comes from spending time with Him. shhh! wait! listen.

Saturday, March 21, 2009

Watch What Happens

This time has been a time of awakening. Awakening to myself. Awakening to resting in God. Awakening to an awareness of His movement. Oh yeah, we say it, but it is an awesome thing when you can recognize that it is God moving and not anyone else, including you.

Friends have lost parents, yet others have found one another. Transition. And the transition should leave us closer to just a little more positive self. Even if the transition rids us of baggage that should have been gone, allow your self to breathe. allow yourself to move closer to your destiny.

Now we know that this walk should be one of transformation, and it is, if you allow God's will to become your will. That was Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, His will to be the Father's will. (Shall I add "at all cost"?) God's will, at all cost, by any means necessary. Try that on for a minute. See how it works. Take it one day at a time, and watch what happens. Peace.

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Stretch

There is so much going on around us. So many people are wondering what will happen to them in this economic downturn. I can tell you - you will survive. And you will learn to live anew. Things may not be the way that you had hoped for or the way you once knew, but if you allow God to direct you - You will survive. Who knows? This may be your time of greatest growth. Don't miss what God is doing. When you hear the news that another company has gone under pray for the workers. When you hear that you no longer have take a moment (we are human). But do not stay in that moment, look around, be still, and listen for God's voice. This is an opportune time to look at your gifts. Even if your mode of income appears to be strong look at finding ways of having multiple streams of income (as my sister says). Use the gifts you have to stretch your means of income.

The times do not have to be a rough as we make them. It is an opportune time to reach out to other. We all have a role to play. I feel very strongly that God is giving all of us a chance to love one another, to reach out to one another across so many human boundaries during this time.

Keep in mind that your plans are not the real ones. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. YOu will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart" (Jer. 29:11-13 NIV).

Saturday, February 21, 2009

Giving Up

Donny Hathaway sang quite a while ago "Giving up is hard to do when you really love someone." Let me flip that a little as we approach this Lenten season. I think giving up should be easier because of the One who loves us. The Divine loved us so much that He gave His life so we could live. I've been pondering this upcoming Lenten season and why we as Believers give up something, let go of something, why we should have a change of heart during this season. It is to sacrifice. I'm not going into what that means, but it appears that we all could give up a few things. And it is not to pick back up, but to close this season in celebration of a life transforming.

I believe that the turmoil we face as a nation, as people is a chance. Here me clearly. I believe that God is giving us a chance to reach out to one another, to love one another. And it starts with each one making a change toward loving one another.

Our attitude toward one another should reflect love. So giving up a selfish heart would go a long way toward loving one another. Giving up unforgiveness would benefit us mentally, physically, and spiritually. Giving up fear would release a multitude of negativity.

Can we prepare to do a new thing? To encounter the Divine by loving as He demonstrated?

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Cleaning Up

Why is it that we cannot be real with others? Many times we miss an opportunity to get it right because we said or did something that we really didn't mean say or do, but we don't know how to remedy it - for so many reasons. And that missed opportunity just piles up as junk storage in a basement, or garage, or vacant room. Soon the junk has so covered everything and we keep saying we will clear it up or we will get rid of it, but we don't. And truth becomes lost because of the junk.

As Believers we should not have to worry about how others may or may attack us. We are covered from those darts, and by the same token, we should not attack them. That is so hard to do, isn't it? Yet it is doable.

Let this new year be a start in cleaning out, getting rid, refreshing. Clean out those areas of things said or done that you though you couldn't undo. Get rid of years of false modesty and martyr image and walk in your true self as in the image of Truth. Refresh your spirit by putting things in proper place. Allow the beauty of who you are to warm your heart. Through Truth find order and peace. Look at John 14:15-17. Shalom!

Thursday, January 8, 2009

Have you ever lost time by trying to decide what to do in your life? And you become so bogged down and do nothing? How many times have you lost time just like that? Wow. I know that one. And then there is the age old question of purpose and if you are fulfilling your purpose. Do you know how often you can be just slightly to the side of your purpose - because you heard a portion and you filled in the rest? You didn't wait to get clarity. Oh we do it all the time. This is really a great time to stop, and listen.

My goal - be clear on what I hear, and then move forward without reservation.

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Live in Peace

A new year! A new day, and new chance to do better than the day before. This is a moment to seize and then to squeeze every drop of life from it. This is a chance to live without remorse, regret, unforgiveness. It is a time to let go. Eckhart Tolle observed how ducks fight. "When they get into a fight, it is never long. Then they separate, floating off in opposite directions. Each duck flaps its wings vigorously a few times, which releases surplus energy built up during the fight. After they flap their wings, they float on peacefully, as if nothing had ever happened" (Tolle 2005, 137).

Now we know that there will be fights and spiritual battles to be won. Can you, this time, let that last fight go? Shake it off! Let the built up energy release so that you can move into your peace. Let it go!! You cannot hold on if you are going to progress. Live in peace!