I am dedicating the Empathy Key to my mother, whose birthday is November 28. My mom now resides in Heaven and, although I have learned to accept her absence, I still miss her as much as ever.
My mom's name is Ruth, which means "compassion." That characteristic is probably the best way to describe my mother. Compassion and Empathy go hand in hand; hence the reason for this blog. (Besides, I needed an "E" for the contest!)
So why would a Key for helping other people give me a more Abundant Life? One reason was touched on in my last blog . . . remember the "mid-day" face? Whatever good we do for another human being not only comes back to us, but it enriches our life experience. Of course, if we only do good for another for the purpose of enriching our lives, the act will backfire and create bitterness in our own hearts instead of joy. Father God, please make my motives pure and unselfish always!
One can't be truly compassionate without possessing the ability to empathize. People always came first to my mom. Growing up in the fifties and sixties, I lived with my parents in a small farming community. People would often just drop in on one another to visit, seldom bothering to call ahead. When my mother took me with her to call on a neighbor, we usually found the neighbor at work. Many of the people we visited would continue on with her chores while we talked. But when someone would drop in on us, Mom never failed to set her work aside and give our guest her full attention. She cared deeply and sincerely about other people and they could tell, just by being with her.
My mother had a beautiful solo voice (which is beside the point, but so much a part of how I remember her that I needed to mention it!) A few days before she left for her new home in Heaven, I asked her to save a seat in the heavenly choir for me. I didn't receive a similar talent in this life, but I am counting on possessing a beautiful singing voice in the next one!
Back to the Empathy Key: This door is shaped like a huge red heart. Not much thinking needed here. The reason is obvious, because the Empathy Key opens the door to another person's heart! Am I correct? YES! As I turn the knob, the door swings open to a vast assortment of humanity . . . some wealthy, others poor; some well-dressed, others wearing rags; some sparkling-clean, others scrungy-dirty; some healthy, others in obvious pain. A group of men play basketball, some of them wearing braces and prothesis or braces on their legs. Others sit in wheelchairs and watch the game, cheering on their friends.
But in spite of the suffering I see exhibited, no ones seems unhappy. Smiles are all around . . . people lending a hand, serving food, caring . . . A young girl in a wheelchair reads a story to a blind woman. A well-dressed, elderly woman sits with her arm around a young homeless man, listening with rapt attention to his story. A young boy wipes the nose of a toddler.
There are no walls in this place, no cubicles. Each person has an open heart ready to receive the pain of another and extend pleasure in return. No one seems to feel lonely; all can find someone who will take the time and make the effort to understand.
Please take notice, I am talking here about the practice of empathy, not sympathy. Sympathy has its place . . . at funerals, in hospitals, etc. But Sympathy can only go so far to help another person. Sympathy satisfies a temporary and genuine need. . . to acknowledge pain and give permission to cry, hurt and grieve. Sympathy holds and comforts.
But Empathy lifts up another. It meets another person in the deep part of the soul . . . and truly feels their pain . . . thereby giving them encouragement to go on . . . to put the pain behind them or move ahead in spite of it.
Sympathy holds and comforts.
Empathy comforts and heals.
Empathy trusts God to use our uncomfortable and painful life experiences to give assistance to others. Then my trials will not be wasted, if I can use them to help someone else going through a similar situation. " . . . God of all comfort; who comforts us in all our affliction so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God." 2 Corinthians 3b,4
Empathy can even listen with understanding to someone from another station in life. We all know what it feels like to know rejection, fear and anger . . . to name a few emotions. Even if the situation is different, we can remember a time in our own lives when we felt similar emotions and with God's help and our imaginations, apply those feelings like a bandaid to another's wounds.
Sympathy stands outside and looks in with pity on the sufferer.
Empathy enters that place and walks besides the one who suffers.
My middle name is "Ruth (Compassion)." Father God, please let me live up to my name and use the shadows in my past to bring sunshine to others.
Anyone memorizing the verse I post each week in the box on the right?
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
KEY #A8: HAPPINESS IS . . . THANKSGIVING PIT STOP
Want to see a picture of my little vehicle? Thanks to these photos provided by RG from Edinbrook Sunday School, I am able to provide a picture of a similar automobile, though of a different color.
(Since my own vehicle is in my mind, it would be difficult to take a picture of the exact car.)
I'm sure you understand. Remember, my car is painted lavender and decorated with delicate green vines.
(Since my own vehicle is in my mind, it would be difficult to take a picture of the exact car.)
I'm sure you understand. Remember, my car is painted lavender and decorated with delicate green vines.
The car in the photo has special memories for me because my son, J, and I did Vacation Bible School dramas in it as a team many years ago. We had the most fun going through the car wash! "Our" car has been preserved all these years and is now making a come-back on stage as part of the Edinbrook Sunday School's current theme, which is in their curriculum for the year:
Pit Stop . . . Pull over for Gratitude Adjustment!
Pit Stop . . . Pull over for Gratitude Adjustment!
So come with me today as we use our Happiness Key to open the door to our Pit Stop where we'll take a Thanksgiving Break to check and see if our Gratitude Tanks need to be filled!
Oh dear, mine is getting low. It's good I pulled over and stopped! Sometimes my tank gets low when I find myself taking for granted all the blessings God immerses me in each day of my life. So many in this world don't have a warm, comfortable bed to sleep in, a fresh, hot shower every day, the privilege of choosing basically any food they want from the shelves of a local grocery store. May God give me a thankful heart this Thanksgiving season and the desire to share His gracious, bountiful gifts with others.
I wasn't sure whether to entitle this blog "Happy Thanksgiving" or "Happiness is . . . " because, you see, happiness is so tied in with thanksgiving. When I think about all the good God gives me, I have to really struggle to remain unhappy. And, believe me, the effort is not worth it!
Do you remember that little song of years back?
"Happiness is to know the Savior,
Living a life within His favor,
Having a change in my behavior,
Happiness is the Lord.
Real joy is mine,
No matter if tear drops start,
I've found the secret,
It's Jesus in my heart!"
So what is Happiness/Joy and how do we get it?
First of all, I have heard many people complain that God doesn't want them to be happy.
I read a passage in my daily Bible reading today from John 15 where Jesus is talking to His followers. He has told them "As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Now remain in My love. If you obey My commands you will remain in My love . . . I have told you this so that My joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. " John 15:9-11
God wants His children to be full of joy. In fact, joy is one of the fruits of His Spirit, a gift to those who put their trust in Him. Happiness can be a fleeting emotion, sparkling on top of the stream of life, whereas joy flows deeper, providing the sustenance of our stream and producing currents hold us up and provide direction through life.
So, as the little song says, how can we find happiness/joy in our daily lives?
Let's take it line by line:
1. "Happiness is to know the Savior." Joy is a by-product of the relationship we have with our heavenly Father, through faith in Jesus Christ. One of the greatest secrets of happiness is that when we stake our lives on His goodness and mercy, even if everything in our world seems to crash to the ground, we can depend on the knowledge that we have a future in heaven where we will experience the state of constant, total joy forever.
2. "Living a life within His favor." In the Bible verse I quote above, it states, "If you obey my commands, you will remain in My love." When we obey God's commands (which are given for our own good, for example: God forbids us to steal partly so no one will steal our stuff!) we live without the bondage of guilt that takes the joy right out of our lives. Guilt is a huge joy-stealer.
3. "Having a change in my behavior." When I choose to live the way God wants me to live I feel at peace with Him. When I focus on trying to make other people happy, they usually respond to my consideration of them, which gives me pleasure.
4. "Happiness is the Lord." The Bible says, "Rejoice in the Lord . . . " Philippians 4:4a
He alone is the source of real joy!
5. "Real joy is mine." Here we will focus further on the difference between joy and happiness. As human beings living in this fallen world, we cannot expect to exist in a state of constant happiness. Normal life is full of ups and downs. "Christian women (and men) can go through periods of depression and still have an underlying sense of peace, knowing that God and His purposes are greater than our emotions. Our faith is based on truth, the certainty of His Word, not our feelings." (taken from The View From Eternity, written by myself.)
Happiness does not mean a life with no problems. Jesus said "In this world you will have trials and tribulations, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." John 16:33b
Now I need to check my tank for my own Gratitude Attitude.
1. Do I belong to God? Am I sure I am His child? Am I aware of and expressing thanks to God for all that He gives me?
2. Am I trying to please my loving heavenly Father by obeying Him?
3. Am I focusing on trying to make others happy? A passage in Isaiah 58:6-11gives us a prescription for finding happiness during those gloomy days when we try to fight off feelings of self-pity or loneliness. Verse 10 states:
"And if you give yourself to the hungry,
and satisfy the desire of the afflicted,
then your light will rise in darkness, and your gloom will be come like midday."
Note that last verse especially, "Your gloom will become like mid-day.' Picture our gloomy expressions replaced with sunny (mid-day) faces because of the satisfaction we find when we help others!" (Taken from The View From Eternity, written by myself.)
4. Am I looking to God, prioritizing my relationship with Him, expecting Him to fill my "joy" tank?
5. In spite of my circumstances, am I training my mind to know contentment? Have you ever felt discontent, greedy and happy at the same time? Or contented and unhappy at the same time? Neither combination works, does it? Philippines 4:8 gives us the formula for "Happy thinking." A great passage to memorize!
This Thanksgiving, and afterwards, let's pour our lives into pleasing God and making other people happy. Then we'll see our Gratitude tanks filled to the brim and overflowing!
I wasn't sure whether to entitle this blog "Happy Thanksgiving" or "Happiness is . . . " because, you see, happiness is so tied in with thanksgiving. When I think about all the good God gives me, I have to really struggle to remain unhappy. And, believe me, the effort is not worth it!
Do you remember that little song of years back?
"Happiness is to know the Savior,
Living a life within His favor,
Having a change in my behavior,
Happiness is the Lord.
Real joy is mine,
No matter if tear drops start,
I've found the secret,
It's Jesus in my heart!"
So what is Happiness/Joy and how do we get it?
First of all, I have heard many people complain that God doesn't want them to be happy.
I read a passage in my daily Bible reading today from John 15 where Jesus is talking to His followers. He has told them "As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Now remain in My love. If you obey My commands you will remain in My love . . . I have told you this so that My joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. " John 15:9-11
God wants His children to be full of joy. In fact, joy is one of the fruits of His Spirit, a gift to those who put their trust in Him. Happiness can be a fleeting emotion, sparkling on top of the stream of life, whereas joy flows deeper, providing the sustenance of our stream and producing currents hold us up and provide direction through life.
So, as the little song says, how can we find happiness/joy in our daily lives?
Let's take it line by line:
1. "Happiness is to know the Savior." Joy is a by-product of the relationship we have with our heavenly Father, through faith in Jesus Christ. One of the greatest secrets of happiness is that when we stake our lives on His goodness and mercy, even if everything in our world seems to crash to the ground, we can depend on the knowledge that we have a future in heaven where we will experience the state of constant, total joy forever.
2. "Living a life within His favor." In the Bible verse I quote above, it states, "If you obey my commands, you will remain in My love." When we obey God's commands (which are given for our own good, for example: God forbids us to steal partly so no one will steal our stuff!) we live without the bondage of guilt that takes the joy right out of our lives. Guilt is a huge joy-stealer.
3. "Having a change in my behavior." When I choose to live the way God wants me to live I feel at peace with Him. When I focus on trying to make other people happy, they usually respond to my consideration of them, which gives me pleasure.
4. "Happiness is the Lord." The Bible says, "Rejoice in the Lord . . . " Philippians 4:4a
He alone is the source of real joy!
5. "Real joy is mine." Here we will focus further on the difference between joy and happiness. As human beings living in this fallen world, we cannot expect to exist in a state of constant happiness. Normal life is full of ups and downs. "Christian women (and men) can go through periods of depression and still have an underlying sense of peace, knowing that God and His purposes are greater than our emotions. Our faith is based on truth, the certainty of His Word, not our feelings." (taken from The View From Eternity, written by myself.)
Happiness does not mean a life with no problems. Jesus said "In this world you will have trials and tribulations, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." John 16:33b
Now I need to check my tank for my own Gratitude Attitude.
1. Do I belong to God? Am I sure I am His child? Am I aware of and expressing thanks to God for all that He gives me?
2. Am I trying to please my loving heavenly Father by obeying Him?
3. Am I focusing on trying to make others happy? A passage in Isaiah 58:6-11gives us a prescription for finding happiness during those gloomy days when we try to fight off feelings of self-pity or loneliness. Verse 10 states:
"And if you give yourself to the hungry,
and satisfy the desire of the afflicted,
then your light will rise in darkness, and your gloom will be come like midday."
Note that last verse especially, "Your gloom will become like mid-day.' Picture our gloomy expressions replaced with sunny (mid-day) faces because of the satisfaction we find when we help others!" (Taken from The View From Eternity, written by myself.)
4. Am I looking to God, prioritizing my relationship with Him, expecting Him to fill my "joy" tank?
5. In spite of my circumstances, am I training my mind to know contentment? Have you ever felt discontent, greedy and happy at the same time? Or contented and unhappy at the same time? Neither combination works, does it? Philippines 4:8 gives us the formula for "Happy thinking." A great passage to memorize!
This Thanksgiving, and afterwards, let's pour our lives into pleasing God and making other people happy. Then we'll see our Gratitude tanks filled to the brim and overflowing!
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
KEY #A7: THE TREASURE OF TIME
Just the simple word "Time" conjures up so many thoughts and images.
For example, Thanksgiving Day will be here soon, so . . .
"It is time to be thankful." (When isn't it?)
"It's about time."
"I'm just killing time." (What have you got against it?)
"Time heals all things."
"Be on time." (I wonder what it means to be under time?)
"Manage your Time."
What is Time? Will we always have Time in some form? Or will it disappear when Eternity comes?
The doorway of the Time Key looks imposing, kind of like a grand-father clock: tall, stately, polished. Will its room filled with clocks? Probably not; I haven't been correct in my guesses so far. Why should I be right this "time?"
Yup, I was right! I was wrong. :) The Time Room appears to have no end; at least no borders are in sight. And there is only one object inside . . . a huge, elaborately decorated treasure chest. It is so much larger than me. I need to tip my head to see the top. In fact, I would need to stand on a ladder just to reach the keyhole, which is higher than my head. I don't see any ladders nearby. And I don't have the key for the chest either. Guess I won't be getting into it.
So what does it mean? What am I supposed to learn from this? From a nearly empty room . . . that is filled with Time? Hmmm . . . that's it! Time is a treasure chest! My own limited Time here on this earth is my treasure.
I've heard it said that we all . . . both rich and poor . . . have equal minutes in our days, 24 hours apiece. (Though I beg to question that theory. Some of us need more sleep than others!)
I need to pause a moment here and contemplate this revelation. What exactly is a treasure? I suppose it could be described as a thing of great value, a privilege, a responsibility, a reward for a seeker.
So in what way is Time my treasure chest?
First of all, My Time is of great value, not to be wasted. Not to be "killed." I realize that doesn't mean no time should be permitted for fun or rest, both of which are necessary for our mental health and the proper function of our bodies. But the older I get, the more aware I am that Time is slipping by! I do so want to make the rest of my Time here on Earth to count for Eternity! That is one reason I am getting really tired of cleaning my house. I enjoy a clean and orderly home, and greatly appreciate it when I have finished my cleaning chores. But I get frustrated when I spend hours doing the same thing over and over that I have done for so many years! I want to use the Time I have left to create . . . to write . . . to influence (for good!) people that I care for . . . even people I have never met.
Secondly, Time is a privilege. "As for man, his days are like grass; as a flower of the field, so he flourishes. When the wind has passed over it, it is no more; and its place acknowledges it no longer." Psalm 103:15-16
I have been given over sixty years so far (Yes, that is a fact though, hopefully, I take after my mother and don't look my age. If that is not true, please don't feel a need to correct me on this point.) Only God knows how many more years I have to enjoy on Earth before He calls me Home. So I need to make an effort to use my time wisely and pray the words of Psalm 90:2 for myself: "So teach us to number our days, that we may present to Thee a heart of wisdom."
Third, Time is a responsibility. Ok, so I will continue to clean my house.
But beyond that, this is my prayer: "O God, You have taught me from my youth; to this day I declare Your wondrous works. Now also when I am old and gray headed, O God, do not forsake me, until I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to everyone who is to come." Psalm 71:17-18 Please give me more opportunities, Father, to declare the Truth of Your Word to others.
And Fourth, Time is a reward. Because I know Jesus as my Savior and my Lord, my Time here will melt into Eternity and continue on for everlasting! "But the lovingkindness of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, and His righteousness to children's children, to those who keep His covenant, and who remember His precepts to do them. " Psalm 103:17-18
THE BEST THING ABOUT TIME: God stepped into Time when He permitted His own Son "Immanuel (God with us)" to enter this Earth as a newborn baby, at that Time we celebrate as Christmas,
. . . to grow to become a Man (fully God yet fully Man with all human needs, feelings and emotions),
. . . to willingly pay the cost (suffering the torturous death on a simple, wooden cross) of my own horrendous sin that would send me to everlasting Hell if He had not intervened,
. . . to fulfill the amazing purpose of God's demonstration of love from before Time began, and because I accept Jesus' death as substitute payment for my own sins, to eventually bring me to heaven to live with Him for all eternity!
"You are my hope, O Lord God . . . My praise shall continually be of You." Psalm 71:5a, 6b
"Let my mouth be filled with Your praise and with Your glory all the day." Psalm 71:8
May all my Time ("all the day") be filled with Your praise and Your glory!
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Sunday, November 13, 2011
KEY #AB6: YOUTHFULNESS
Do I hold in my hand the key to the Secret of Youth?
"And He called a child to Himself and set him before them, and said, "Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you shall not enter the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18:2-3
This is actually Key # A6. I accidentally published the scripture verse as soon as I started my newest blog. So, as far as the contest goes, there is only one "Y"! Hope this doesn't confuse anyone!
We have so far: ILIVEBY
As I approach the next door with my Youthfulness Key, my hopes rise dramatically. Now that I am definitely past age 29 (!), I wonder if this doorway could possibly hold the "key" to reclaiming my youth? Maybe the door will swing open to reveal the genuine Fountain of Youth that has been sought for ages? Anything seems possible in the Land of Abundant Life! Or maybe the scene will remind me of a spa . . . one from antiquity similar to the one that the biblical Queen Elizabeth benefitted from during the year before she went to the king.
My hears beats rapidly and my steps already seem lighter as I hasten to insert the key and throw open the door with an unexpected, youthful burst of energy.
Oh, my! I should have known. It's a playground, filled to capacity with children engaged in all sorts of activities. Swings, slides, games, races, crafts, a swimming pool . . . Whatever children love to do seems to be provided for them here in this enormous nature-gymnasium.
I do love children. They are soooo cute! That boy even looks a lot like . . . oh, it is!
"Grandma!" Big C, my almost-six-year-old grandson, comes running to meet me. "I didn't know you were coming here!"
" I'm surprised to see you, too, Sweetie."
"Why are you here?"
"Well, I think . . . I think I'm supposed to learn something from you."
"Oh, that's cool!" His face lights up and he grabs my hand. Little c is here, too!" He pulls me over to his brother, who immediately stretches out his chubby arms to be picked up. I willingly oblige.
"Watch me, Grandma!" Big C runs to show me his newest trick on the monkey bars. I clap my hand with affection and affirmation. He beams.
"Ba-Ba." Little c looks at me expectantly.
"What, honey? Oh, you mean 'bottle!' You are hungry."
Little c nods vigorously and points to a bottle sitting on the counter nearby. I reach for it, cuddle my precious grandson in my arms and feed him. Little c's eyes fasten on my face as his fingers gently play with my dangling earrings.
Contentedly, I watch Big C and the other children.
I hear a voice, "What do you see, Linda?" The voice startles me at first, but nothing really surprises me here for long.
"Children playing," I answer immediately.
"Describe them."
"Well . . . " I observe Big C. "Carefree, exuberant, curious, adventurous . . . " I notice Big C stoop down to help a playmate who had fallen, "loving." My gaze turns to Little c in my arms. "Contented, dependent, trusting . . . " I see him return my smile, "responsive, secure."
"Those who become like little children enter the kingdom of heaven."
"But how can I become like a little child? I'm too old for the monkey bars. I feed myself quite efficiently. I'm capable of earning my own living."
It's preposterous to think I need to lose or ignore those skills to live in God's kingdom! It must be those qualities I listed. Hmmm . . . let's consider them.
1. Carefree: "casting all your anxiety upon Him, because cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7
2. Exuberant: (I recalled how happy my grandsons were to see me, excited just to be in my presence!) "But as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made the Lord my refuge . . . " Psalm 73:28a
3. Curious: "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15."
4. Adventurous: "let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith . . . " Hebrews 12:1a, 2b
5. Loving: "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I (Jesus) have loved you, that you also love one another." John 13:34
6. Contented: ". . . I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am." Philippians 411b
7. Dependent: "And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19
8. Trusting: "Trust in the Lord and lean not unto your own understanding."
9. Responsive: "We love, because He first loved us." 1 John 4:19
10. Secure: "Surely I have composed and quieted my soul; like a weaned child rests against his mother . . . " Psalm 131:2a
Oh, Father, please help me to be like one of these children, lying contentedly in Your capable arms, clinging to Your hand, knowing for a certainty Your promise is true that "I will never leave you nor forsake you." Hebrews 13:5b
Therein lies the secret of youthfulness.
Have you signed up to get my blogs delivered right to your email? Just check out the box on the right.
Hope to see you next week!
"And He called a child to Himself and set him before them, and said, "Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you shall not enter the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18:2-3
This is actually Key # A6. I accidentally published the scripture verse as soon as I started my newest blog. So, as far as the contest goes, there is only one "Y"! Hope this doesn't confuse anyone!
We have so far: ILIVEBY
As I approach the next door with my Youthfulness Key, my hopes rise dramatically. Now that I am definitely past age 29 (!), I wonder if this doorway could possibly hold the "key" to reclaiming my youth? Maybe the door will swing open to reveal the genuine Fountain of Youth that has been sought for ages? Anything seems possible in the Land of Abundant Life! Or maybe the scene will remind me of a spa . . . one from antiquity similar to the one that the biblical Queen Elizabeth benefitted from during the year before she went to the king.
My hears beats rapidly and my steps already seem lighter as I hasten to insert the key and throw open the door with an unexpected, youthful burst of energy.
Oh, my! I should have known. It's a playground, filled to capacity with children engaged in all sorts of activities. Swings, slides, games, races, crafts, a swimming pool . . . Whatever children love to do seems to be provided for them here in this enormous nature-gymnasium.
I do love children. They are soooo cute! That boy even looks a lot like . . . oh, it is!
"Grandma!" Big C, my almost-six-year-old grandson, comes running to meet me. "I didn't know you were coming here!"
" I'm surprised to see you, too, Sweetie."
"Why are you here?"
"Well, I think . . . I think I'm supposed to learn something from you."
"Oh, that's cool!" His face lights up and he grabs my hand. Little c is here, too!" He pulls me over to his brother, who immediately stretches out his chubby arms to be picked up. I willingly oblige.
"Watch me, Grandma!" Big C runs to show me his newest trick on the monkey bars. I clap my hand with affection and affirmation. He beams.
"Ba-Ba." Little c looks at me expectantly.
"What, honey? Oh, you mean 'bottle!' You are hungry."
Little c nods vigorously and points to a bottle sitting on the counter nearby. I reach for it, cuddle my precious grandson in my arms and feed him. Little c's eyes fasten on my face as his fingers gently play with my dangling earrings.
Contentedly, I watch Big C and the other children.
I hear a voice, "What do you see, Linda?" The voice startles me at first, but nothing really surprises me here for long.
"Children playing," I answer immediately.
"Describe them."
"Well . . . " I observe Big C. "Carefree, exuberant, curious, adventurous . . . " I notice Big C stoop down to help a playmate who had fallen, "loving." My gaze turns to Little c in my arms. "Contented, dependent, trusting . . . " I see him return my smile, "responsive, secure."
"Those who become like little children enter the kingdom of heaven."
"But how can I become like a little child? I'm too old for the monkey bars. I feed myself quite efficiently. I'm capable of earning my own living."
It's preposterous to think I need to lose or ignore those skills to live in God's kingdom! It must be those qualities I listed. Hmmm . . . let's consider them.
1. Carefree: "casting all your anxiety upon Him, because cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7
2. Exuberant: (I recalled how happy my grandsons were to see me, excited just to be in my presence!) "But as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made the Lord my refuge . . . " Psalm 73:28a
3. Curious: "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." 2 Timothy 2:15."
4. Adventurous: "let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith . . . " Hebrews 12:1a, 2b
5. Loving: "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I (Jesus) have loved you, that you also love one another." John 13:34
6. Contented: ". . . I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am." Philippians 411b
7. Dependent: "And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19
8. Trusting: "Trust in the Lord and lean not unto your own understanding."
9. Responsive: "We love, because He first loved us." 1 John 4:19
10. Secure: "Surely I have composed and quieted my soul; like a weaned child rests against his mother . . . " Psalm 131:2a
Oh, Father, please help me to be like one of these children, lying contentedly in Your capable arms, clinging to Your hand, knowing for a certainty Your promise is true that "I will never leave you nor forsake you." Hebrews 13:5b
Therein lies the secret of youthfulness.
Have you signed up to get my blogs delivered right to your email? Just check out the box on the right.
Hope to see you next week!
CORRECTION: GRANDMA GOOF-UP!
Hello friends, I made a major "Grandma Goof-up" on my last blog! I listed Big C's age as going on 6 when he is actually going on 7! They grow way too fast. At least, this time I caught it myself. Guess I'd better check over my writing a little better next week. :)
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
CORRECTION ON LAST BLOG!!!
I apologize . . . I meant to refer to Queen Esther, not Queen Elizabeth! Thanks to my husband, who discovered the error!
Saturday, November 5, 2011
KEY #A6: YOUTHFULLNESS
"And He (Jesus) called a child to Himself and set him before them, and said, "Truly I say to you, unless you are converted and become like children, you shall not enter the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 18:2-3
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
KEY#A5: BODY CARE
Oh, dear! My little lavender vehicle is getting low on fuel . . . extremely low! I've been so caught up in the excitement of exploring this Land of Abundant Living that I've neglected my poor little car. I've been pushing it to its limits. Even now, a strange clunking noise is coming from the rear. I need to find a gasoline station very soon. I hope it doesn't die on me before I reach one! Oh, good, there's a station just ahead. Whew! What a relief! Now I won't have to walk and hunt for a place to purchase gas. The Land of Abundant Living is enormous and, of course, goes on throughout Eternity, so it could have been a long walk!
The station master is friendly and a sign says "Free Full Service." How nice! Just what I should have expected in the Land of A.L! :)
"May I see your key, please?" he asks me.
"What key?"
"The Body Care Key?" he responds politely.
"Oh? You need that one? For my car?" I'm sure my face must show confusion, but I dig the key out of my purse and hand it to him.
"Yes, that is the one." He inserts it into the gas tank and promptly returns it to me.
I hesitate as guilt overwhelms me. "I'm afraid there may be something else wrong with my car. It's been making an unusual noise the past few miles."
He smiles. "Please make yourself comfortable inside while I give your vehicle a complete free overhaul."
"Thank you," Surprised, but pleased, I enter the small, but cozy waiting room and help myself to free popcorn that tastes amazing. It is coated with olive oil instead of butter and sprinkled with unusual, flavorful spices. I begin to realize how hungry I had been feeling.
As I sit on a comfortable chair munching on popcorn, I ponder whether the Body Care Key has anything to do with me personally, as had the other keys I've used. Or maybe it's just for the body of my car. I mean, I have a body, too, but I don't need fuel or overhauling. I smile at my silly thought process. Then it hits me. I do have a need for fuel! Food is fuel for my body, just like gasoline is fuel for my automobile. I've been so excited with all my latest discoveries that I've started to neglect my own physical needs. I've feeling tired and run down lately and out of sorts. Think I'd better check out the nearest cafe when I'm finished here. I'm craving a hot fudge sundae . . . wonder if they are available here. I need something to give me energy!
The Station Master returns and approaches me. "Your vehicle is all set! You were smart to come to this station." He shook his head. "There are some down the road aways that don't have good fuel. In fact, the gas they offer could even cause harm to your car's engine and other mechanical systems."
"You mean," I inquired, "Even in the Land of Abundant Living, there may be poor fuel?"
"Of course," he answered. "This Land is all about choices."
"Oooooooh."
He hesitated a moment, and spoke again. "Please remember to show consideration to your vehicle in the future."
I shook my head vigorously. "Oh, yes, I've learned my lesson!"
"And if I may offer some advice, now that you have provided for the needs of the body of your car, I wonder if you have considered the proper fuel for your own body? If you are interested, I have bookmarked a place in that book." He pointed to the book lying on the table next to my chair, then tipped his hat to me and left the room.
I remained sitting, deep in thought. I guess I should be more careful about what sort of fuel/food I put in my own body, not just in the body of my vehicle. Maybe I've been eating a bit too much sugar and fat lately. I know, too, that whole grain foods give my body the nourishment it needs. And fresh fruits and vegetables. I do enjoy pizza and potato chips though . . . and cream donuts.
I spot a book lying on the table next to my chair. Of course, it is a Bible. I open it to the bookmarked page and read the highlighted verse, "Then God said, 'Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the surface of all the earth, and every tree which has fruit yielding seed; it shall be food for you;"
Hmmmm . . . this really is a "no brainer." Did God make fruit? Did He make vegetables? Whole grains? Obviously the answer is "yes." Did He make donuts? Potato chips? Well, He made the ingredients we use in the recipes, but I'll have to admit we humans "refine" and add ingredients that could harm our bodies . . . even our minds.
I remember many years ago when I was about twenty, and existed mostly on a diet of simple carbohydrates and coffee. My body eventually suffered from severe low blood sugar to the point where I had to leave my job and go home to live with my parents, so weak that for weeks I would lay in bed all day until I ate enough of my mother's healthy cooking to get well again. It took months before the doctors figured out the correct diagnosis for me. I do not want to return to that state ever again!
I guess if caring for my vehicle responsibly is important to me, I should care no less for this body that God gave me to navigate this Earth with and serve Him! I do want all my body parts to function properly as I grow older for as long as possible, so I can still have the energy to play with my grand-children, do my own housework, and continue to travel and speak about Jesus to women's groups.
God designed my body; it made sense that He would know and provide the "fuel" it needs to function properly and to its maximum potential. Yes, I do have a responsibility to care for the body that serves me.
I remember passing a "Natural Foods" Cafe aways back. Maybe I'll check it out next. I would imagine they have some yummy desserts, too! Maybe even a healthy pizza! :)
So how are you doing with the contest? Here's what we have so far: ILIVEB . . . not too much to go on , is it? Take your time! Have you signed up yet for the free Joshua Story e-book? It's a true pro-life story about the birth of my youngest son.
Hope to see you next week!
The station master is friendly and a sign says "Free Full Service." How nice! Just what I should have expected in the Land of A.L! :)
"May I see your key, please?" he asks me.
"What key?"
"The Body Care Key?" he responds politely.
"Oh? You need that one? For my car?" I'm sure my face must show confusion, but I dig the key out of my purse and hand it to him.
"Yes, that is the one." He inserts it into the gas tank and promptly returns it to me.
I hesitate as guilt overwhelms me. "I'm afraid there may be something else wrong with my car. It's been making an unusual noise the past few miles."
He smiles. "Please make yourself comfortable inside while I give your vehicle a complete free overhaul."
"Thank you," Surprised, but pleased, I enter the small, but cozy waiting room and help myself to free popcorn that tastes amazing. It is coated with olive oil instead of butter and sprinkled with unusual, flavorful spices. I begin to realize how hungry I had been feeling.
As I sit on a comfortable chair munching on popcorn, I ponder whether the Body Care Key has anything to do with me personally, as had the other keys I've used. Or maybe it's just for the body of my car. I mean, I have a body, too, but I don't need fuel or overhauling. I smile at my silly thought process. Then it hits me. I do have a need for fuel! Food is fuel for my body, just like gasoline is fuel for my automobile. I've been so excited with all my latest discoveries that I've started to neglect my own physical needs. I've feeling tired and run down lately and out of sorts. Think I'd better check out the nearest cafe when I'm finished here. I'm craving a hot fudge sundae . . . wonder if they are available here. I need something to give me energy!
The Station Master returns and approaches me. "Your vehicle is all set! You were smart to come to this station." He shook his head. "There are some down the road aways that don't have good fuel. In fact, the gas they offer could even cause harm to your car's engine and other mechanical systems."
"You mean," I inquired, "Even in the Land of Abundant Living, there may be poor fuel?"
"Of course," he answered. "This Land is all about choices."
"Oooooooh."
He hesitated a moment, and spoke again. "Please remember to show consideration to your vehicle in the future."
I shook my head vigorously. "Oh, yes, I've learned my lesson!"
"And if I may offer some advice, now that you have provided for the needs of the body of your car, I wonder if you have considered the proper fuel for your own body? If you are interested, I have bookmarked a place in that book." He pointed to the book lying on the table next to my chair, then tipped his hat to me and left the room.
I remained sitting, deep in thought. I guess I should be more careful about what sort of fuel/food I put in my own body, not just in the body of my vehicle. Maybe I've been eating a bit too much sugar and fat lately. I know, too, that whole grain foods give my body the nourishment it needs. And fresh fruits and vegetables. I do enjoy pizza and potato chips though . . . and cream donuts.
I spot a book lying on the table next to my chair. Of course, it is a Bible. I open it to the bookmarked page and read the highlighted verse, "Then God said, 'Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the surface of all the earth, and every tree which has fruit yielding seed; it shall be food for you;"
Hmmmm . . . this really is a "no brainer." Did God make fruit? Did He make vegetables? Whole grains? Obviously the answer is "yes." Did He make donuts? Potato chips? Well, He made the ingredients we use in the recipes, but I'll have to admit we humans "refine" and add ingredients that could harm our bodies . . . even our minds.
I remember many years ago when I was about twenty, and existed mostly on a diet of simple carbohydrates and coffee. My body eventually suffered from severe low blood sugar to the point where I had to leave my job and go home to live with my parents, so weak that for weeks I would lay in bed all day until I ate enough of my mother's healthy cooking to get well again. It took months before the doctors figured out the correct diagnosis for me. I do not want to return to that state ever again!
I guess if caring for my vehicle responsibly is important to me, I should care no less for this body that God gave me to navigate this Earth with and serve Him! I do want all my body parts to function properly as I grow older for as long as possible, so I can still have the energy to play with my grand-children, do my own housework, and continue to travel and speak about Jesus to women's groups.
God designed my body; it made sense that He would know and provide the "fuel" it needs to function properly and to its maximum potential. Yes, I do have a responsibility to care for the body that serves me.
I remember passing a "Natural Foods" Cafe aways back. Maybe I'll check it out next. I would imagine they have some yummy desserts, too! Maybe even a healthy pizza! :)
So how are you doing with the contest? Here's what we have so far: ILIVEB . . . not too much to go on , is it? Take your time! Have you signed up yet for the free Joshua Story e-book? It's a true pro-life story about the birth of my youngest son.
Hope to see you next week!
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