Eyes of Wisdom
“He’s a terrible dresser. I wouldn’t date him.” She’s dumb. She never talks.” “I don’t like her hanging out with us. She’s different.”
Look to the inside to seek the truth. Haters and those who judge are ignorant. You have wisdom. God’s counting on you to love.
Inspired by Mark 9:38-40
John said to Jesus, “Teacher, we saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him, because he was not following us.” But Jesus said, “Do not stop him; for no one who does a deed of power in my name will be able soon afterwards to speak evil of me. Whoever is not against us is for us.”
Brothers & Sisters In Christ
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Solid As A Rock
Solid As A Rock
“Ok people, this job is going to take team work. Are you with me?” “People showed up to his funeral in droves. It shows the kind of man he was.” “I couldn’t have done it without you.”
Jesus used Peter metaphorically as his rock to build His church. In the same way spiritually build in the community in which you live. You are a solid rock not a brittle pebble.
Inspired by Matthew 16:13-19
Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”
“Ok people, this job is going to take team work. Are you with me?” “People showed up to his funeral in droves. It shows the kind of man he was.” “I couldn’t have done it without you.”
Jesus used Peter metaphorically as his rock to build His church. In the same way spiritually build in the community in which you live. You are a solid rock not a brittle pebble.
Inspired by Matthew 16:13-19
Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”
Monday, February 21, 2011
For The One Who Believes
For The One Who Believes
Why should I believe you’ll change.” “I’ve never done well, today is no different.” “Make the phone call. They can help you.”
Bury Doubt. Resurrect your trusting childlike confidence. All things can be done for the one who believes! Hmmm, I wonder who said that!
Inspired by Mark 9:17-24
Someone from the crowd answered Jesus, “Teacher, I brought you my son; he has a spirit that makes him unable to speak; and whenever it seizes him, it dashes him down; and he foams and grinds his teeth and become rigid; and I asked your disciples to cast it out, but they could not do so.” Jesus said: “Bring him to me.” And they brought the boy to him. When the spirit saw him, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. Jesus asked the father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood. It has often cast him into the fire and into the water to destroy him; but if you are able to do anything, have pity on us and help us.” Jesus said to him, “If you are able! All things can be done for the one who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out, “I believe; help my unbelief!”
Why should I believe you’ll change.” “I’ve never done well, today is no different.” “Make the phone call. They can help you.”
Bury Doubt. Resurrect your trusting childlike confidence. All things can be done for the one who believes! Hmmm, I wonder who said that!
Inspired by Mark 9:17-24
Someone from the crowd answered Jesus, “Teacher, I brought you my son; he has a spirit that makes him unable to speak; and whenever it seizes him, it dashes him down; and he foams and grinds his teeth and become rigid; and I asked your disciples to cast it out, but they could not do so.” Jesus said: “Bring him to me.” And they brought the boy to him. When the spirit saw him, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. Jesus asked the father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood. It has often cast him into the fire and into the water to destroy him; but if you are able to do anything, have pity on us and help us.” Jesus said to him, “If you are able! All things can be done for the one who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out, “I believe; help my unbelief!”
Sunday, February 20, 2011
The Song In Your Heart
The Song in Your Heart
“I would like to volunteer?” “I am here with you just because.” “It’s wonderful that we can agree to disagree!”
Who needs a special day to love! Care for one another, lend a hand and reconcile. “Love” is the song your heart can sing every day!
Inspired by Luke 10:1-6
After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. He said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this house!’ And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you.”
“I would like to volunteer?” “I am here with you just because.” “It’s wonderful that we can agree to disagree!”
Who needs a special day to love! Care for one another, lend a hand and reconcile. “Love” is the song your heart can sing every day!
Inspired by Luke 10:1-6
After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. He said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. Go on your way. See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of wolves. Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and greet no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace to this house!’ And if anyone is there who shares in peace, your peace will rest on that person; but if not, it will return to you.”
The "A" Team
The “A” Team
I’ve got no one to depend on. I want what she has! School is just too tough.
God never gives you more than you can handle. And Jesus gives you all that you need. Play life with a spirit of strength, contentment and self-confidence. You've got the "A" Team on your side.
Inspired b y Mark 8:14-17
Now the disciples had forgotten to bring any bread; and they had only one loaf with them in the boat. And he cautioned them, saying, “Watch out – beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and the yeast of Herod.” They said to one another, “It is because we have no bread.” And becoming aware of it, Jesus said to them, “Why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not perceive or understand?”
I’ve got no one to depend on. I want what she has! School is just too tough.
God never gives you more than you can handle. And Jesus gives you all that you need. Play life with a spirit of strength, contentment and self-confidence. You've got the "A" Team on your side.
Inspired b y Mark 8:14-17
Now the disciples had forgotten to bring any bread; and they had only one loaf with them in the boat. And he cautioned them, saying, “Watch out – beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and the yeast of Herod.” They said to one another, “It is because we have no bread.” And becoming aware of it, Jesus said to them, “Why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not perceive or understand?”
Keen Senses
Keen Senses
“Can you see anything?” “Can you hear me now?” “Do you feel any change yet?”
Our most truthful senses rely on how acute they are. Deepen your knowledge of Jesus. Important lessons of life come from a sharp spiritual vision, harmonious refined hearing, and unpretentious acquiescent skin.
Inspired by Mark 8:22-26
They came to Bethsaida. Some people brought a blind man to Jesus and begged him to touch him. He took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village; and when he had put saliva on his eyes and laid his hands on him, he asked him, “Can you see anything?” And the man looked up and said, “I can see people, but they look like trees, walking.” Then Jesus laid his hands on his eyes again; and he looked intently and his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. They he sent him away to his home, saying, “Do not even go into the village.”
“Can you see anything?” “Can you hear me now?” “Do you feel any change yet?”
Our most truthful senses rely on how acute they are. Deepen your knowledge of Jesus. Important lessons of life come from a sharp spiritual vision, harmonious refined hearing, and unpretentious acquiescent skin.
Inspired by Mark 8:22-26
They came to Bethsaida. Some people brought a blind man to Jesus and begged him to touch him. He took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the village; and when he had put saliva on his eyes and laid his hands on him, he asked him, “Can you see anything?” And the man looked up and said, “I can see people, but they look like trees, walking.” Then Jesus laid his hands on his eyes again; and he looked intently and his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. They he sent him away to his home, saying, “Do not even go into the village.”
Yield to Divinity
Yield to Divinity
“That’s impossible.” “You’re asking for a miracle.” “Where will the help come from?”
Divine things are not of this world. Set your sights high on the miracle and sacrifice of Jesus. When given the chance your wrestling human heart will undoubtedly yield to the gift of divinity.
Inspired by Mark 8:27-33
Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi; and on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” And they answered him, “John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.” He asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Messiah.” And he sternly ordered them not to tell anyone about him. Then he began to teach them that the Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. He said all this quite openly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. But turning and looking at his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.”
“That’s impossible.” “You’re asking for a miracle.” “Where will the help come from?”
Divine things are not of this world. Set your sights high on the miracle and sacrifice of Jesus. When given the chance your wrestling human heart will undoubtedly yield to the gift of divinity.
Inspired by Mark 8:27-33
Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi; and on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” And they answered him, “John the Baptist; and others, Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets.” He asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Messiah.” And he sternly ordered them not to tell anyone about him. Then he began to teach them that the Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. He said all this quite openly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. But turning and looking at his disciples, he rebuked Peter and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.”
It's Time
It’s Time
“I’m sorry there’s no discount. You missed the sale.” “Mommy, I stopped crying. But now there’s no ice cream.”
Do it now. Waste no time. Tomorrow may be too late to show God you want what he wants to give you. Live like you believe!
Inspired by Mark 8:34-9:1
Jesus called the crowd with his disciples, and said to them, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake, and the for the sake of the gospel, will save it. For what will it profit them to gain the whole world and forfeit their life? Indeed, what can they give in return for their life? Those who are ashamed of me and of my words in the adulterous and sinful generation, of them the Son of Man will also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” And he said to them, “Truly I tell you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see that the kingdom of God has come with power.”
“I’m sorry there’s no discount. You missed the sale.” “Mommy, I stopped crying. But now there’s no ice cream.”
Do it now. Waste no time. Tomorrow may be too late to show God you want what he wants to give you. Live like you believe!
Inspired by Mark 8:34-9:1
Jesus called the crowd with his disciples, and said to them, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake, and the for the sake of the gospel, will save it. For what will it profit them to gain the whole world and forfeit their life? Indeed, what can they give in return for their life? Those who are ashamed of me and of my words in the adulterous and sinful generation, of them the Son of Man will also be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” And he said to them, “Truly I tell you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see that the kingdom of God has come with power.”
Saturday, February 19, 2011
The Ride of My Life
The Ride of My Life
What kind of passenger are you on the “ride of your life?”
Are you confident that gravity and the weight of your solid body will keep you firmly planted in your temporary place? How does the cold metal or thinly padded seat make you feel? Do you accept it knowing its design is to accommodate all shapes and sizes? Do you believe you can handle and enjoy the speed, twists, turns, and jerks that its creator went to great pains to design for you? Do you have faith that you will arrive safely, satisfied and yearn for more when it is all over?
In varying degrees, we indulge, bear and consent to the time and ways in which we choose to go through the different experiences of our lives. We move forward on our journey and proceed with a certain amount of excitement, confidence, fear or indeterminate state.
We may have been in this place before. However, our experiences are not the same every time. Some are more memorable, scary and foolish than others depending on our outlook and emotional scars.
Our mindsets can vary through feelings of self-assuredness, comfort, or skepticism because we feel the strap designed to protect us is unnecessary, snug, or too loose.
Nonetheless, our past experiences definitely shape our attitude toward our excursions. And one would think we would learn quickly which rides work for us and which do not. We may even naively fight with controlling thoughts of our own destiny when in fact the ride determines the way.
However, it seems that our intricate brain can have a mind of its own. It has the ability to quickly forget, conveniently ignore, or can even block out an undesirable experience.
This same mind can be determined to remind us about horrific experiences and seem to easily recall in great detail the ugly knot in our gut when something makes us feel uneasy.
However, we should be mindful, thankful and grateful that our intellect can miraculously block out all gray matter and reveal good, encouraging, dazzling and cheerful highlights of our encounters.
What is certain is that we know the ride of our life will roll on forward whether we embrace the excursion or not. However, the truth of this certainty can leave us feeling dumbfounded and sometimes inept.
When we are insecure we brace ourselves for the steep inclines we know will cause anxious feelings and the sudden drops that will make our hearts and stomachs feel detached from our beings.
When we are scared we tolerate, sometimes badly, feelings of unwelcoming discomfort, anxiousness, and nausea. Our apprehensive hands will hang on tight to the stiff bar, while we press our fingers until they are white even before the first sign of a jerk or motion.
We may even scold ourselves for being coaxed, misled or taunted into a precarious situation. We might sit upright with a rigid posture begging for the end of this disturbing emotional expedition to be over even before it’s begun.
Think about how different it would be if we were truly educated about safety, believed we were emotionally prepared for the ups, downs, and turns, and spiritually excited over the fact that God made man capable to design such things. With these good strong foundational tracks we could enjoy and expect our ride to always satisfy us making us yearn for more.
It is in this bone fide and sanctified state of spiritual well being and preparedness that we can experience a whole other array, a rainbow if you will, of colors of emotions and attitudes toward our life’s expeditions.
Become a true “ride of your life” enthusiast so you can embrace the thrill, excitement, anticipation, and adrenaline that will rush through your veins.
There are colorful and pleasurable experiences to be had, straight ways and turns to bring vivid satisfaction, and incredible multihued indulgences of heights, tunnels and flatlands to share and relish in.
Don’t talk yourself out of experiencing and enjoying every unexpected turn, harsh jerk, exciting surprise, and unforeseen let down. Tap into the optimist and adventurer in you.
Rather than thinking that last dip and turn didn’t do much for you, you’ll be anticipating from the edge of your seat, waiting wide eyed and expectantly, filled with electrifying emotions, and enlivened by a yearning for that next incredible “wow moment” just around the bend.
Each day you have an opportunity to stand with confidence in line, holding your ticket proudly, and gladly wait for your turn to step in.
When you get there, to the front, take your place, buckle yourself in, and then shout out, “Come on -- coaster of life. Bring it on. I’m ready for my ride.”
Epilogue
Tug, tug, click, click, higher and higher I rose. I got to the to top of the climb. I knew I couldn’t turn back. Feeling as though there were no tracks below me, my imagination had gone wild. It’s as if we were suspended in air on a toothpick. Then slowly, we tipped forward and we rushed straight down. The wind was fierce and from the speed my face was frozen with a picture of delight, awe and trepidation! We twisted, turned, jerked, stopped, rushed, rose and fell! Then after the last crazy loop we came to a final and abrupt screeching halt.
My head jerked forward from the final jolt, and the blood slowly came back into my face and hands. The saliva in my mouth was trying desperately to find its normal place in the nooks and crannies of its home just minutes before. The pounding of my heart matched the exciting pounding in my head and they both quickly with incredible memory took a dip back toward normal.
I sat there a moment, gathered my crazy thoughts and scooped up my wild emotions and yelped, “Wow! Awesome! That was the ride of my life!”
Inspired by Mark 8:1-10.
Thank you Lord, my God, my Savior.
Everyday you provide me with wonderful gifts that
I want to enjoy.
Help me to take on with confidence the disappointments
and harsh punches of life with complete trust in You.
Help me to build my faith so that in times of weakness
and celebration I will know your unending love.
Give me confidence and hope to look past my own desires
so that I can see and enjoy what you have waiting for me
now and at the end of my ride.
Amen
What kind of passenger are you on the “ride of your life?”
Are you confident that gravity and the weight of your solid body will keep you firmly planted in your temporary place? How does the cold metal or thinly padded seat make you feel? Do you accept it knowing its design is to accommodate all shapes and sizes? Do you believe you can handle and enjoy the speed, twists, turns, and jerks that its creator went to great pains to design for you? Do you have faith that you will arrive safely, satisfied and yearn for more when it is all over?
In varying degrees, we indulge, bear and consent to the time and ways in which we choose to go through the different experiences of our lives. We move forward on our journey and proceed with a certain amount of excitement, confidence, fear or indeterminate state.
We may have been in this place before. However, our experiences are not the same every time. Some are more memorable, scary and foolish than others depending on our outlook and emotional scars.
Our mindsets can vary through feelings of self-assuredness, comfort, or skepticism because we feel the strap designed to protect us is unnecessary, snug, or too loose.
Nonetheless, our past experiences definitely shape our attitude toward our excursions. And one would think we would learn quickly which rides work for us and which do not. We may even naively fight with controlling thoughts of our own destiny when in fact the ride determines the way.
However, it seems that our intricate brain can have a mind of its own. It has the ability to quickly forget, conveniently ignore, or can even block out an undesirable experience.
This same mind can be determined to remind us about horrific experiences and seem to easily recall in great detail the ugly knot in our gut when something makes us feel uneasy.
However, we should be mindful, thankful and grateful that our intellect can miraculously block out all gray matter and reveal good, encouraging, dazzling and cheerful highlights of our encounters.
What is certain is that we know the ride of our life will roll on forward whether we embrace the excursion or not. However, the truth of this certainty can leave us feeling dumbfounded and sometimes inept.
When we are insecure we brace ourselves for the steep inclines we know will cause anxious feelings and the sudden drops that will make our hearts and stomachs feel detached from our beings.
When we are scared we tolerate, sometimes badly, feelings of unwelcoming discomfort, anxiousness, and nausea. Our apprehensive hands will hang on tight to the stiff bar, while we press our fingers until they are white even before the first sign of a jerk or motion.
We may even scold ourselves for being coaxed, misled or taunted into a precarious situation. We might sit upright with a rigid posture begging for the end of this disturbing emotional expedition to be over even before it’s begun.
Think about how different it would be if we were truly educated about safety, believed we were emotionally prepared for the ups, downs, and turns, and spiritually excited over the fact that God made man capable to design such things. With these good strong foundational tracks we could enjoy and expect our ride to always satisfy us making us yearn for more.
It is in this bone fide and sanctified state of spiritual well being and preparedness that we can experience a whole other array, a rainbow if you will, of colors of emotions and attitudes toward our life’s expeditions.
Become a true “ride of your life” enthusiast so you can embrace the thrill, excitement, anticipation, and adrenaline that will rush through your veins.
There are colorful and pleasurable experiences to be had, straight ways and turns to bring vivid satisfaction, and incredible multihued indulgences of heights, tunnels and flatlands to share and relish in.
Don’t talk yourself out of experiencing and enjoying every unexpected turn, harsh jerk, exciting surprise, and unforeseen let down. Tap into the optimist and adventurer in you.
Rather than thinking that last dip and turn didn’t do much for you, you’ll be anticipating from the edge of your seat, waiting wide eyed and expectantly, filled with electrifying emotions, and enlivened by a yearning for that next incredible “wow moment” just around the bend.
Each day you have an opportunity to stand with confidence in line, holding your ticket proudly, and gladly wait for your turn to step in.
When you get there, to the front, take your place, buckle yourself in, and then shout out, “Come on -- coaster of life. Bring it on. I’m ready for my ride.”
Epilogue
Tug, tug, click, click, higher and higher I rose. I got to the to top of the climb. I knew I couldn’t turn back. Feeling as though there were no tracks below me, my imagination had gone wild. It’s as if we were suspended in air on a toothpick. Then slowly, we tipped forward and we rushed straight down. The wind was fierce and from the speed my face was frozen with a picture of delight, awe and trepidation! We twisted, turned, jerked, stopped, rushed, rose and fell! Then after the last crazy loop we came to a final and abrupt screeching halt.
My head jerked forward from the final jolt, and the blood slowly came back into my face and hands. The saliva in my mouth was trying desperately to find its normal place in the nooks and crannies of its home just minutes before. The pounding of my heart matched the exciting pounding in my head and they both quickly with incredible memory took a dip back toward normal.
I sat there a moment, gathered my crazy thoughts and scooped up my wild emotions and yelped, “Wow! Awesome! That was the ride of my life!”
Inspired by Mark 8:1-10.
Thank you Lord, my God, my Savior.
Everyday you provide me with wonderful gifts that
I want to enjoy.
Help me to take on with confidence the disappointments
and harsh punches of life with complete trust in You.
Help me to build my faith so that in times of weakness
and celebration I will know your unending love.
Give me confidence and hope to look past my own desires
so that I can see and enjoy what you have waiting for me
now and at the end of my ride.
Amen
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Fool Proof Recipe For Love
Fool Proof Recipe For Love
A daily heaping scoop of patience
An ever filled cup of kindness
A habit of trust and forgiveness
An ever flowing supply of hope (see www.godinsight4me.blogspot.com for the complete recipe:)
Mix well with perserverance until well blended and smooth. Mixture should be light and fluffy and appealing to the senses. If emotions are in a higher altitude mixture will require beating until smooth and soft. Lovingly scoop into a decorative dessert cup and garnish with kisses. Smile, every batch will be a baker’s masterpiece no matter how it is blended.
Baker’s notes: Practice mixing until you get it just right. Sometimes your recipe will taste better than others. Never throw away your mixture. The best parts will always reveal themselves. To get the best effect always begin with a warm heart and good baking sheets that will tolerate the heat!
Bon Appetite
A daily heaping scoop of patience
An ever filled cup of kindness
A habit of trust and forgiveness
An ever flowing supply of hope (see www.godinsight4me.blogspot.com for the complete recipe:)
Mix well with perserverance until well blended and smooth. Mixture should be light and fluffy and appealing to the senses. If emotions are in a higher altitude mixture will require beating until smooth and soft. Lovingly scoop into a decorative dessert cup and garnish with kisses. Smile, every batch will be a baker’s masterpiece no matter how it is blended.
Baker’s notes: Practice mixing until you get it just right. Sometimes your recipe will taste better than others. Never throw away your mixture. The best parts will always reveal themselves. To get the best effect always begin with a warm heart and good baking sheets that will tolerate the heat!
Bon Appetite
Love Never Fails
Love Never Fails
You’re my sister. I will not judge you, but only love you. You’re my mother. You say things to teach me. I will without anger accept the way you love me. You’re my friend, I have very few. I hope this nor any other circumstance comes between us.
God is love. Love is patient, kind, it does not envy, nor boast, it protects, trusts, hopes, persevers. Love never fails. Happy Valentine’s Day!
Inspired by 1 Corinthians 2:6-10
Brothers and sisters:
We speak a wisdom to those who are mature,
not a wisdom of this age,
nor of the rulers of this age who are passing away.
Rather, we speak God’s wisdom, mysterious, hidden,
which God predetermined before the ages for our glory,
and which none of the rulers of this age knew;
for, if they had known it,
they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
But as it is written:
What eye has not seen, and ear has not heard,
and what has not entered the human heart,
what God has prepared for those who love him,
this God has revealed to us through the Spirit.
For the Spirit scrutinizes everything, even the depths of God.
You’re my sister. I will not judge you, but only love you. You’re my mother. You say things to teach me. I will without anger accept the way you love me. You’re my friend, I have very few. I hope this nor any other circumstance comes between us.
God is love. Love is patient, kind, it does not envy, nor boast, it protects, trusts, hopes, persevers. Love never fails. Happy Valentine’s Day!
Inspired by 1 Corinthians 2:6-10
Brothers and sisters:
We speak a wisdom to those who are mature,
not a wisdom of this age,
nor of the rulers of this age who are passing away.
Rather, we speak God’s wisdom, mysterious, hidden,
which God predetermined before the ages for our glory,
and which none of the rulers of this age knew;
for, if they had known it,
they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.
But as it is written:
What eye has not seen, and ear has not heard,
and what has not entered the human heart,
what God has prepared for those who love him,
this God has revealed to us through the Spirit.
For the Spirit scrutinizes everything, even the depths of God.
Saturday, February 12, 2011
God's 'Shout Of Praise"
God's "Shout Of Praise"
"Why can't people just leave me alone!" "I never get anytime to myself." "Why do they keep asking me questions, I don't have all the answers."
When your name is called "smile". That is God's "shout of praise" over you, his work at its best. Be a trusting, patient, & consistent shining example of goodness to those who are struggling to find their way. The answer is not solitude but rather communion with people.
Inspired by Mark 6:30-34
The apostles gathered around Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. He said to them, "Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while." For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a deserted place by themselves. Now many saw them going and recognized them, and they hurried there on foot from all the towns and arrived ahead of them. As he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things.
"Why can't people just leave me alone!" "I never get anytime to myself." "Why do they keep asking me questions, I don't have all the answers."
When your name is called "smile". That is God's "shout of praise" over you, his work at its best. Be a trusting, patient, & consistent shining example of goodness to those who are struggling to find their way. The answer is not solitude but rather communion with people.
Inspired by Mark 6:30-34
The apostles gathered around Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. He said to them, "Come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest a while." For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a deserted place by themselves. Now many saw them going and recognized them, and they hurried there on foot from all the towns and arrived ahead of them. As he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things.
Luck Schmuck
Luck Schmuck
“You won how much? Oh, touch me please, I want some of your luck!” “It’s amazing how she was healed. Do you think it’s because she’s such a faithful woman?”
Luck schmuck! Have great faith and live like you believe! There are so many gifts you’ll miss being a doubter or nonbeliever. You were born to be blessed!
Inspired by Mark 6:53-56
When Jesus and the disciples had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret and moored the boat. When they got out of the boat, people at once recognized him, and rushed about that whole region and began to bring the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. And wherever he went, into villages or cities or farms, they laid the sick in the marketplaces, and begged him that they might touch even the fringe of his cloak; and all who touched it were healed.
“You won how much? Oh, touch me please, I want some of your luck!” “It’s amazing how she was healed. Do you think it’s because she’s such a faithful woman?”
Luck schmuck! Have great faith and live like you believe! There are so many gifts you’ll miss being a doubter or nonbeliever. You were born to be blessed!
Inspired by Mark 6:53-56
When Jesus and the disciples had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret and moored the boat. When they got out of the boat, people at once recognized him, and rushed about that whole region and began to bring the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. And wherever he went, into villages or cities or farms, they laid the sick in the marketplaces, and begged him that they might touch even the fringe of his cloak; and all who touched it were healed.
Do As I Do
Do as I do
“I can’t say bad words. Daddy, why do you?” “You should talk. You have nothing good to say about your husband.” “Mind your own business. And I’ll talk about anyone I feel like talking about.”
Let’s give them something “good” to talk about. “Do as I do, because it’s admirable.” Positive, encouraging and worthy of imitating - That’s you!
Inspired by Mark 7:1-2, 5-8
Now when the Pharisees and some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem gathered around him, they noticed that some of his disciples were eating with defiled hands, that is, without washing them. So the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why do your disciples not live according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?” He said to them, “Isaiah prophesied rightly about you hypocrites, as it is written, ‘This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching human precepts as doctrines.’ You abandon the commandment of God and hold to human tradition.”
“I can’t say bad words. Daddy, why do you?” “You should talk. You have nothing good to say about your husband.” “Mind your own business. And I’ll talk about anyone I feel like talking about.”
Let’s give them something “good” to talk about. “Do as I do, because it’s admirable.” Positive, encouraging and worthy of imitating - That’s you!
Inspired by Mark 7:1-2, 5-8
Now when the Pharisees and some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem gathered around him, they noticed that some of his disciples were eating with defiled hands, that is, without washing them. So the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why do your disciples not live according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with defiled hands?” He said to them, “Isaiah prophesied rightly about you hypocrites, as it is written, ‘This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching human precepts as doctrines.’ You abandon the commandment of God and hold to human tradition.”
Delights Of The Heart
Delights of the Heart
“Of course, I’d like to see your new car. Why would I not be happy for you?” “Enjoy your success. You deserve the best.” “I know this is not your best subject. Let me help you.”
What’s inside our hearts comes out of our mouths. Pray each day that your thoughts are pure and sound. Enjoy as your words ring with delight, pleasure and chime with assistance to others.
Inspired by Mark 7:20-23
Then Jesus said to the disciples, “It is what comes out of a person that defiles. For it is from within, from the human heart, that evil intentions come; fornication, theft, murder, adultery, avarice, wickedness, deceit, licentiousness, envy, slander, pride, folly. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”
“Of course, I’d like to see your new car. Why would I not be happy for you?” “Enjoy your success. You deserve the best.” “I know this is not your best subject. Let me help you.”
What’s inside our hearts comes out of our mouths. Pray each day that your thoughts are pure and sound. Enjoy as your words ring with delight, pleasure and chime with assistance to others.
Inspired by Mark 7:20-23
Then Jesus said to the disciples, “It is what comes out of a person that defiles. For it is from within, from the human heart, that evil intentions come; fornication, theft, murder, adultery, avarice, wickedness, deceit, licentiousness, envy, slander, pride, folly. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.”
Pay It Forward
Pay It Forward
“She is my child. Of course I want to help her.” “My co-worker may be lazy, but he’s still a human being.” “My teammate may be the least talented but he’s got the biggest heart.
With sincere love we can move mountains, help spare another’s dignity and salvage a person’s spirit. God, your Father, never let you down. Pay it forward.
Inspired by Mark 7:24-30
From there Jesus set out and went away to the region of Tyre. He entered a house and did not want anyone to know he was there. Yet he could not escape notice, but a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit immediately heard about him, and she came and bowed down at his feet. Now the woman ws a Gentile, of Syrophoenician origin. She begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. He said to her, “Let the children be fed first, for it is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.” But she answered him, “Sir, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.” Then he said to her, “For saying that, you may go-the demon has left your daughter.” So she went home, found the child lying on the bed, and the demon gone.
“She is my child. Of course I want to help her.” “My co-worker may be lazy, but he’s still a human being.” “My teammate may be the least talented but he’s got the biggest heart.
With sincere love we can move mountains, help spare another’s dignity and salvage a person’s spirit. God, your Father, never let you down. Pay it forward.
Inspired by Mark 7:24-30
From there Jesus set out and went away to the region of Tyre. He entered a house and did not want anyone to know he was there. Yet he could not escape notice, but a woman whose little daughter had an unclean spirit immediately heard about him, and she came and bowed down at his feet. Now the woman ws a Gentile, of Syrophoenician origin. She begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. He said to her, “Let the children be fed first, for it is not fair to take the children’s food and throw it to the dogs.” But she answered him, “Sir, even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.” Then he said to her, “For saying that, you may go-the demon has left your daughter.” So she went home, found the child lying on the bed, and the demon gone.
The Course Of Our Lives
The Course of Lives
“I don’t know what’s wrong, but you need to know I want to help.” “I couldn’t stay away. You’ve been on my mind.” “It doesn’t matter that some imbecile doesn’t like you, I do.”
God loves “love.” Show your love today. Your smile, touch, and understanding will change the course of lives.
Inspired by Mark 7:31-37
Then Jesus returned from the region of Tyre, and went by way of Sidon towards the Sea of Galilee, in the region of the Decapolis. They brought to him a deaf man who had an impediment in his speech; and they begged him to lay his hand on him. He took him aside in private, away from the crowd, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spat and touched his tongue. Then looking up to heaven, he signed and said to him, “Ephphatha,” that is, “Be opened.” And immediately his ears were opened, his tongue was released and he spoke plainly. Then Jesus ordered them to tell no one; but the more he ordered them, the more zealous they proclaimed it. They were astounded beyond measure, saying, “He has done everything well; he even makes the deaf to hear and the mute to speak.
“I don’t know what’s wrong, but you need to know I want to help.” “I couldn’t stay away. You’ve been on my mind.” “It doesn’t matter that some imbecile doesn’t like you, I do.”
God loves “love.” Show your love today. Your smile, touch, and understanding will change the course of lives.
Inspired by Mark 7:31-37
Then Jesus returned from the region of Tyre, and went by way of Sidon towards the Sea of Galilee, in the region of the Decapolis. They brought to him a deaf man who had an impediment in his speech; and they begged him to lay his hand on him. He took him aside in private, away from the crowd, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spat and touched his tongue. Then looking up to heaven, he signed and said to him, “Ephphatha,” that is, “Be opened.” And immediately his ears were opened, his tongue was released and he spoke plainly. Then Jesus ordered them to tell no one; but the more he ordered them, the more zealous they proclaimed it. They were astounded beyond measure, saying, “He has done everything well; he even makes the deaf to hear and the mute to speak.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Love Conquers All
Love Conquers All
“I can see it now. When their father dies the family will crumble.” “He apologized. What more do you want?" "Tell me who your friends are and I will tell you who you are."
Keep good company. Surround yourself with people who are givers. Offer positive words when negativity presents itself. Love conquers all.
Inspired by Mark 3:22-30
And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, “He has Beelzebul, and by the ruler of the demons he casts out demons.” And he called them to him, and spoke to them in parables, “How can Satan cast out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand. And if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided he cannot stand, but his end has come. But no one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his property without first tying up the strong man; then indeed the house can be plundered. Truly I tell you, people will be forgiven for their sins and whatever blasphemies they utter; but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit can never have forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin” – for they had said, “He has an unclean spirit.”
“I can see it now. When their father dies the family will crumble.” “He apologized. What more do you want?" "Tell me who your friends are and I will tell you who you are."
Keep good company. Surround yourself with people who are givers. Offer positive words when negativity presents itself. Love conquers all.
Inspired by Mark 3:22-30
And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, “He has Beelzebul, and by the ruler of the demons he casts out demons.” And he called them to him, and spoke to them in parables, “How can Satan cast out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand. And if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided he cannot stand, but his end has come. But no one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his property without first tying up the strong man; then indeed the house can be plundered. Truly I tell you, people will be forgiven for their sins and whatever blasphemies they utter; but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit can never have forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin” – for they had said, “He has an unclean spirit.”
My Blessings Are Many
Irresistible You
“She’s always got a positive attitude.” “You can see it in his eyes. He loves her so much.” “She doesn’t belong to a click, she talks to everyone.”
When you get it – give it. Then be an angel and give love before it reaches you! Let the world find you irresistible. Muahhhh!
Inspired by Hebrews 13:1-8.
Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. Remember those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them; those who are being tortured, as though you yourselves were being tortured. Let marriage be held in honor by all, and let the marriage bed be kept undefiled; for God will judge fornicators and adulterers. Keep your lives free from the love of money, and be content with what you have; for he has said, “I will never leave you or forsake you.” So we can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can anyone do to me?” Remember your leaders, those who spoke the word of God to you; consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today and for ever.
“She’s always got a positive attitude.” “You can see it in his eyes. He loves her so much.” “She doesn’t belong to a click, she talks to everyone.”
When you get it – give it. Then be an angel and give love before it reaches you! Let the world find you irresistible. Muahhhh!
Inspired by Hebrews 13:1-8.
Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. Remember those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them; those who are being tortured, as though you yourselves were being tortured. Let marriage be held in honor by all, and let the marriage bed be kept undefiled; for God will judge fornicators and adulterers. Keep your lives free from the love of money, and be content with what you have; for he has said, “I will never leave you or forsake you.” So we can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can anyone do to me?” Remember your leaders, those who spoke the word of God to you; consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today and for ever.
Irresistible You
Irresistible You
“She’s always got a positive attitude.” “You can see it in his eyes. He loves her so much.” “She doesn’t belong to a click, she talks to everyone.”
When you get it – give it. Then be an angel and give love before it reaches you! Let the world find you irresistible. Muahhhh!
Inspired by Hebrews 13:1-8.
Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. Remember those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them; those who are being tortured, as though you yourselves were being tortured. Let marriage be held in honor by all, and let the marriage bed be kept undefiled; for God will judge fornicators and adulterers. Keep your lives free from the love of money, and be content with what you have; for he has said, “I will never leave you or forsake you.” So we can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can anyone do to me?” Remember your leaders, those who spoke the word of God to you; consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today and for ever.
“She’s always got a positive attitude.” “You can see it in his eyes. He loves her so much.” “She doesn’t belong to a click, she talks to everyone.”
When you get it – give it. Then be an angel and give love before it reaches you! Let the world find you irresistible. Muahhhh!
Inspired by Hebrews 13:1-8.
Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. Remember those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them; those who are being tortured, as though you yourselves were being tortured. Let marriage be held in honor by all, and let the marriage bed be kept undefiled; for God will judge fornicators and adulterers. Keep your lives free from the love of money, and be content with what you have; for he has said, “I will never leave you or forsake you.” So we can say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can anyone do to me?” Remember your leaders, those who spoke the word of God to you; consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today and for ever.
Dead Attitudes Are Out
Dead Attitudes Are Out
“No more blows, please. I’m too old for surprises.” “Shocking. People never cease to amaze me.” “Thank you Daddy. I like surprises.”
Don’t grow tired and weary, rather mature with optimism and good spirit. Life’s surprises whether good or bad have the mystifying merciful touch of God. Turn a dead attitude around. Let the loving light of God shine through you.
Inspired by Luke 2:25-33
Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested in him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Guided by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying, “Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.” And the child’s father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him.
Face of Confidence
“What if I can’t walk after the surgery?” “Why should I call, I still won’t get the job.” “What’s the point of studying for the test? I always fail.” A famous person once said, “Do not fear, only believe.” Jesus knew what he was talking about. Put on your face of confidence and your body and mouth will have something positive to emulate.
Inspired by Mark 5:21-24; 35-43
When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered around him; and he was by the sea. Then one of the leaders of the synagogue named Jairus came and, when he saw him, fell at his feet and begged him repeatedly, “My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well, and live.” So we went with him. And a large crowd followed him and pressed in on him. While he was still speaking, some people came from the leader’s house to say, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the teacher any further?” But over hearing what they said, Jesus said to the leader of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.” He allowed no one to follow him except Peter, James and John, the brother of James. When they came to the house of the leader of the synagogue, he saw a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. When he had entered, he said to them, “Why do you make a commotion and weep? The child is not dead but sleeping and took the child’s father and mother and those who were with him, and went in where the child was. He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha cum,” which means, “Little girl, get up!” And immediately the girl got up and began to walk about (she was twelve years of age). At this they were overcome with amazement. He strictly ordered them that no one should know this, and told them to give her something to eat.
“No more blows, please. I’m too old for surprises.” “Shocking. People never cease to amaze me.” “Thank you Daddy. I like surprises.”
Don’t grow tired and weary, rather mature with optimism and good spirit. Life’s surprises whether good or bad have the mystifying merciful touch of God. Turn a dead attitude around. Let the loving light of God shine through you.
Inspired by Luke 2:25-33
Now there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; this man was righteous and devout, looking forward to the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit rested in him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Guided by the Spirit, Simeon came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him what was customary under the law, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying, “Master, now you are dismissing your servant in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.” And the child’s father and mother were amazed at what was being said about him.
Face of Confidence
“What if I can’t walk after the surgery?” “Why should I call, I still won’t get the job.” “What’s the point of studying for the test? I always fail.” A famous person once said, “Do not fear, only believe.” Jesus knew what he was talking about. Put on your face of confidence and your body and mouth will have something positive to emulate.
Inspired by Mark 5:21-24; 35-43
When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered around him; and he was by the sea. Then one of the leaders of the synagogue named Jairus came and, when he saw him, fell at his feet and begged him repeatedly, “My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well, and live.” So we went with him. And a large crowd followed him and pressed in on him. While he was still speaking, some people came from the leader’s house to say, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the teacher any further?” But over hearing what they said, Jesus said to the leader of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.” He allowed no one to follow him except Peter, James and John, the brother of James. When they came to the house of the leader of the synagogue, he saw a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. When he had entered, he said to them, “Why do you make a commotion and weep? The child is not dead but sleeping and took the child’s father and mother and those who were with him, and went in where the child was. He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha cum,” which means, “Little girl, get up!” And immediately the girl got up and began to walk about (she was twelve years of age). At this they were overcome with amazement. He strictly ordered them that no one should know this, and told them to give her something to eat.
Simplicities of Life
Simplicities of Life
“If I lost my house, what would I do with all my things?” “I want to be famous and have lots of money.” “Leave my things alone. It’s not my fault your parents afford to buy you anything nice?”
Let go of mindsets and material things that hinder you sight. Enjoy each other and the beautiful moments that come from the simplicities of life.
Inspired by Mark 6:7-11
Jesus called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics. He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave the place. If any place will not welcome you and they refuse to hear you, as you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.”
“If I lost my house, what would I do with all my things?” “I want to be famous and have lots of money.” “Leave my things alone. It’s not my fault your parents afford to buy you anything nice?”
Let go of mindsets and material things that hinder you sight. Enjoy each other and the beautiful moments that come from the simplicities of life.
Inspired by Mark 6:7-11
Jesus called the twelve and began to send them out two by two, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits. He ordered them to take nothing for their journey except a staff; no bread, no bag, no money in their belts; but to wear sandals and not to put on two tunics. He said to them, “Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave the place. If any place will not welcome you and they refuse to hear you, as you leave, shake off the dust that is on your feet as a testimony against them.”
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