December 14, 2015

Book Give-Away in honor of our Emmanuel!

December 14, 2015/ jan

Dear friends, new & continuing (did you notice I didn't say "old"?), Please join in to praise our Emmanuel-Jesus and at the same time, enter to win a copy of The With-ness of our God: Relationship in Every Dimension.

This is the perfect time of the year to begin reading this devotional/Bible study book because the key truth is how God is with us on every possible level. To read more about it, click on the title of the book above and/or also the link to a page on my blog: The With-ness of our God.

So the give-away is simple:

Just leave a comment below sharing one way the Lord showed you that He is with you. It could be in a particular circumstance where He showed Himself to you.

It could be in a verse or passage that you cling to that promises He is with you.

It could be in a song, a sermon, a sign, or even a license plate (thank you, Kitty!). The sky is the limit...please don't make it hard.

Then I will put everyone's names in the proverbial hat and have an impartial person (a friend or grandson) pick out 3 names. Yes, 3 give-aways! I'll contact each of you via your email, sign your book (per your instructions), and mail it out asap.

DEADLINE: Friday, December 18th (so I can send them out, and you can receive them by Christmas -- potential gift?)

Then let us praise our Jesus as we read what others have shared.

In the meantime, while you are reflecting on how the Lord has been with you, enjoy the song below that I just heard for the first time this year. I know, it's been out for several, but the Lord let me hear it the very Christmas when my book was published...isn't that just like HIM! Evidnce to me that He is with me and cares. So now your turn...come on and join in. We will praise Jesus with you, sisters & brothers!

With love & joy in our Jesus, Jan

[youtuber youtube='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2e4nIIMN1I']

The skies don’t seem to be as dark as usual The stars seem brighter then they’ve been before Deep within I feel my soul a stirring As though my hope has been restored

The shepherds say they’ve heard the voice of angels Confirming rumors spread across the land That a child protected well from Herod’s anger Is our Father’s Son, and the Son of man

Love is raining down on the world tonight There’s a presence here I can tell God is in us, God is for us, God is with us, Emmanuel He’s a Savior we have been praying for In our humble hearts He will dwell God is in us, God is for us, God is with us, Emmanuel

I feel compelled to tell all who will listen That peace on earth is not so out of reach If we can find grace and mercy and forgiveness He has come to save, He is all of these

You’re the Savior we have been praying for In our humble hearts You will dwell You are in us, You are for us, You are with us, Emmanuel

December 09, 2015

The unfolding Way...the unfolding Day...the unfolding Life

December 09, 2015/ jan

These were my thoughts as I awoke early today. And it became a conversation with my Lord. Maybe this is for you too...

Let it happen... Let life unfold... Step into each day, each moment, and let it unfold before you...the moment...the day

But Lord, what about the preparing for what I know are my responsibilities? I don't want to be stressed, but how does that fit into my unfolding day?

I will unfold even the preparing before you, "This is the time...the way... for this preparing, for this scheduling, for this looking ahead... walk in it NOW!"

Yes, Lord! Is that how being "Ready for Anything" can be true? "Be it done unto me according to your word"...this way...this moment...this day...this life!

The skies don't seem to be as dark as usual The stars seem brighter then they've been before Deep within I feel my soul a stirring As though my hope has been restored

The shepherds say they've heard the voice of angels Confirming rumors spread across the land That a child protected well from Herod's anger Is our Father's Son, and the Son of man

Love is raining down on the world tonight There's a presence here I can tell God is in us, God is for us, God is with us, Emmanuel He's a Savior we have been praying for In our humble hearts He will dwell God is in us, God is for us, God is with us, Emmanuel

I feel compelled to tell all who will listen That peace on earth is not so out of reach If we can find grace and mercy and forgiveness He has come to save, He is all of these

You're the Savior we have been praying for In our humble hearts You will dwell You are in us, You are for us, You are with us, Emmanuel

November 28, 2015

1st Week of Advent: O Come, Emmanuel!

November 28, 2015/ jan

When I was a child, I always loved Advent. There was a melancholia, a longing...but mixed at the same time with anticipation and hope. How did I get all that as a child? I'm sure I didn't, except to say that maybe all the sights and sounds and smells...all the scriptures and songs and prayers and stories of the "liturgical celebration" weren't entirely lost on me, nor on many of you. The reality of our God-Man Jesus has grown in me over the years as I've walked and talked with my Savior.

But whether you have had that sort of background as a child or not, why not journey with us these next weeks. Take it all in as if for the first time...all the sights, sounds, and smells...all the scriptures and songs and prayers and stories.

Below are Scripture readings for every day this week. Let the Word of God wash over you day by day. I've linked the passages to biblegateway.com so you can change the version as you wish.

But first, enjoy this Christmas Carol to start off your Advent devotions. It's one of my childhood favorites: O Come, O Come Emmanuel.

I love the intense longing expressed in this song...a longing for the presence of God Himself into our frail humanity...a presence that is our Present Reality in Christ.

Who would have ever imagined it? God in the flesh! C.S. Lewis was right when he called the Incarnation (God made Man, God with Us), The Grand Miracle.

Sing it with us, and let the emotion and wonder of it all bathe over you!

O Come O Come Emmanuel Selah

O come, O come, Emmanuel And ransom captive Israel That mourns in lonely exile here Until the Son of God appear Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free Thine own from Satan's tyranny From depths of Hell Thy people save And give them victory o'er the grave Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Thou Day-Spring, come and cheer Our spirits by Thine advent here Disperse the gloomy clouds of night And death's dark shadows put to flight. Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Thou Key of David, come, And open wide our heavenly home; Make safe the way that leads on high, And close the path to misery. Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, O come, Thou Lord of might, Who to Thy tribes, on Sinai's height, In ancient times did'st give the Law, In cloud, and majesty and awe. Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Q6iesplJRM[/youtube]

For an interesting story behind the song, click here.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Readings for the First Week of Advent:

Sunday -- Luke 4:16-21

Monday -- John 1:1-18

Tuesday -- Hebrews 1:1-14

Wednesday -- Philippians 2:1-11

Thursday -- Luke 2:41-52

Friday -- Matthew 3:1-17

Saturday -- Matthew 4:12-25

*******************************************************

The Reading Plan I'm using this year is found in The Voice, a new translation of the New Testament published by Thomas Nelson. For a free download and short video clips, follow this link:

http://www.nelsonfree.com/voicent

*******************************************************

Advent artwork courtesy of my cousin-in-law Marilyn Parente. Of these beautiful creations, Marilyn says, "I created them using images of panels of glass I shot in Disney with a bit of clipart and some Photoshop thrown in for good measure." Thank you so much for sharing, dear sister in the Lord!

December 2012, Today in the Word

November 27, 2015

Advent Devotions: Celebrating God WITH Us!

November 27, 2015/ jan

Advent is a season observed in many Western Christian churches as a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Jesus at Christmas. The term is an anglicized version of the Latin word adventus, meaning "coming." It is the beginning of the Western liturgical year and commences on Advent Sunday. Advent prepares us to celebrate what C.S. Lewis calls the Grand Miracle...the Incarnation!

The central miracle asserted by Christians is the Incarnation...God became Man. Every other miracle prepares for this, or exhibits this, or results from this....it was the central event in the history of the Earth--the very thing the whole story has been about. Miracles, "The Grand Miracle," C.S. Lewis

Join us for the next four weeks in celebrating, through Scripture readings, songs, and devotional thoughts, the greatest miracle of all...God With Us, our Immanuel!

November 23, 2015

From John: "Yep, the Best Yet, #44"

November 23, 2015/ jan

Dearest Jan, Today we have been having some fun listening to a song that you and everyone else at Kroger were humming this afternoon, The Longest Time by Billy Joel. Some of the words of that song speak to me about our relationship over the years.

If you said goodbye to me tonightThere would still be music left to writeWhat else could I doI'm so inspired by you

(That hasn't happened for the longest time) ... Yes, there were times when neither one of us was inspired by other, probably even the opposite in some instances. But I have learned so much from you about our relationship with Christ that I am inspired by you to search and experience more.

And the greatest miracle of allIs how I need youAnd how you needed me too

(That hasn't happened for the longest time) ... Yes, there were times when we were quite distant emotionally from each other. But over the years we have drawn strength and support from one another during the hard times and now we are reaping the benefit in working together rather than against each other.

Now I know the woman that you are

(That hasn't happened for the longest time) ... And probably never will, for what man can truly say he understands the depths of his bride. But I have lately come to truly appreciate who you are more than I could/should have in the years past.

In The Longest Time, there is some question as to the eventual outcome of the relationship. However, you and I have a favorite song that speaks to an enduring and endearing relationship, which I am looking forward to sharing with you in whatever years we have left. In fact, you may have blogged about this song on previous anniversaries, Holding Hands by Steve Green.

I think you ought to know thatI intend to hold you for the longest time, John

November 22, 2015

Almost a Flash mob..the longest time!

November 22, 2015/ jan

I was at Kroger today...along with everyone else in the Dayton area. The atmosphere was pleasant even though crowded this weekend before Thanksgiving...music playing, clerks being helpful, customers focused though polite to each other. Then a song, a long one by "elevator music" standards, acapella... I had to hum and enter into the beat... And so did everyone else. Every aisle I went down, there was a customer, a clerk, a stock person, and then another customer...all of us humming or singing the same tune...a potential flash mob!

I had to laugh...and write it down (senior moment, people! Give me grace).

So here it is...just for fun:

November 21, 2015

Through the 44 years...the best of all!

November 21, 2015/ jan

Through the years...ups & downs...round & rounds...coming close, then staying away...forgiving and being forgiven. All of that and more...but now in our 44th year of marriage, an ok-ness, and acceptance, a mutual supportiveness once an elusive dream. So yes! the 44th has been the best of all!

Maybe Robert Browning's saying really is true,

Grow old along with me. The best is yet to be.

So this is for you, my darling husband, John Charles Loyd. Thank you for it all!

Our wedding get-away car...one of many VW's

Remembering to not Forget

November 16, 2015/ jan

Mom's graduation into glory has settled deep in my soul. I'm writing so that I don't forget. In fact, that's why I started writing years ago...so I don't forget. So today I'm writing down the memorial, the remembrances in scripture, song, and prayer. Listen in..enter in if you would like...

Remembering the Lord as He lived through one humble little lady, my mom, Jeanette Agnes Galuszka Renner.

Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things Enter into the joy of your Lord! Matthew 25:21 NKJV

Prayer

Response: “We give thanks, O Lord.”

For the eternal life Jeanette received through her faith in Jesus Christ…
For the example of her consistency of love and devotion to Christ…
For the love Jeanette unselfishly poured out on us her loved ones…
For the mercy of God in allowing Jeanette to live long enough to see even her great grand-children…
For the blessed hope of being reunited one day in the Kingdom of God…

For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven.A time to be born and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to harvest.A time to kill and a time to heal. A time to tear down and a time to build up.A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance.A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones. A time to embrace and a time to turn away.A time to search and a time to quit searching. A time to keep and a time to throw away.A time to tear and a time to mend. A time to be quiet and a time to speak.A time to love and a time to hate. A time for war and a time for peace...And I know that whatever God does is final. Nothing can be added to it or taken from it. God’s purpose is that people should fear him. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8,14 NLT

God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation. Romans 5:4-11 NIV

Martha then said to Jesus, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.Even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You.” Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” Martha said to Him, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.”Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?” She said to Him, “Yes, Lord; I have believed that You are the Christ, the Son of God, even He who comes into the world.” John 11:21-27 NASB

“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going.” Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:1-6 ESV

An excellent wife [mom, Babci, big Babci, sister, friend, neighbor…], who can find?For her worth is far above jewels…She opens her mouth in wisdom,And the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.She looks well to the ways of her householdAnd does not eat the bread of idleness.Her children rise up and bless her…“Many (daughters) moms have done noblyBut you excel them all.”Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.Give her the product of hands,And let her works praise her in the gates. Proverbs 31:26-31

Conrad's Letter / Eulogy

TO MOM WITH LOVE AND THANKS WHILE ALL MOTHERS ARE SPECIAL, YOU MOM, (BABCI/BIG BABCI) ARE ABSOLUTELY THE BEST! WE KNOW YOU NEVER WANT TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR IMPACT ON OUR LIVES, HOW MUCH YOU'VE MEANT TO US BUT YOU'RE HEARING IT NOW.

WORDS CANT DESCRIBE WHAT YOU'VE MEANT TO ALL US. THE UNCONDITIONAL LOVE, THE SACRIFICES, THE SELFLESSNESS, THE ACTS OF KINDNESS THE HARD WORK, WHILE NEVER COMPLAINING, MAKE YOU TRULY A GIFT FROM GOD TO US. WE THANK GOD FOR HAVING YOU AS OUR MOTHER. ACTUALLY THE ONLY TIME I CAN REMEMBER YOU COMPLAINING WAS WHEN YOUR FATHER BLAMED YOU FOR NOT PREVENTING THE BAD THINGS YOUR YOUNGER SISTER DID AS A TEENAGER. YOU KEPT THE FAMILY TOGETHER DURING DIFFICULT TIMES.

THROUGH DAD'SSEVERAL HEART ATTACKS, THROUGH MOVES OUT WEST AND BACK, THROUGH FINANCIAL HARDSHIPS, THROUGH ALL OF OUR TEENAGE YEARS AND ALL THAT CAME WITH THAT..AND WITH 7 CHILDREN A LOT CAME WITH THAT! THANK YOU MOM! YOU'VE ALWAYS SUPPORTED EACH OF US TO THE POINT WE ALL THOUGHT WE WERE THE FAVORITES. SEVEN FAVORITESI THANK YOU MOM!

YOU LEARNED NEW SKILLS AND TOOK A FULL TIME JOB WHILE CARING FOR 7 PLUS 1, DAD. AND THEN YOU GOT YOUR DRIVERS LICENSE IN YOUR FORTIES SO YOU COULD CART US AROUND, GO TO WORK AND ATTEND OUR GAMES WHILE DAD WORKED. THANKS MOM!

YOU SURVIVED AND FLOURISHED FOR 30 YEARS AFTER THE BRAIN ANEURYSM, FINALLY LETTING SOME STRAIGHT FORWARD FEELINGS COME OUT. BUT YOUR LOVE AND KINDNESS STILL CAME THROUGH.

YOU NEVER LOOKED FOR CREDIT ONLY GAVE IT, NEVER ASKED FOR ANYTHING FOR YOURSELF ONLY GAVE TO OTHERS, NEVER SPOKE BADLY ABOUT ANYONE, ONLY NICE WORDS. YOU WERE NEVER HURTFUL ONLY KIND TO EVERYONE.

WE DO BELIEVE YOU ARE A SAINT SENT FROM GOD. YOUR FAITH IS UNDENIABLE AND ALMOST GOT ALL OF US TO BE NUNS AND PRIESTS. (WELL YOU GOT ONE FOR A TIME ANYWAY.)

YOUR ACTIONS ARE WHAT SEPARATES YOU FROM ALL OTHER MOTHERS. YOU "WALKED THE TALK"AND LOOKED FOR NOTHING IN RETURN. YOU TAUGHT US THE RIGHT WAY TO LIVE, TREAT EACH OTHER AND LOVE THE LORD JESUS. THESE ARE LEADERSHIP QUALITIES, MOM. I DON'T THINK WE HAVE USED THAT TERM WITH YOU, BUT THAT IS WHAT YOU ARE TO US, A LOVING, FAITHFUL LEADER OF THIS PACK GIVEN TO US FROM GOD THE ALMIGHTY FATHER.

YOU HUNG IN THERE WITH US OVER THESE LAST SEVERAL YEARS, IN PAIN AT TIMES, I THINK TO PREPARE US FOR THIS DAY. THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE!

SO NOW HE'S CALLED YOU HOME. WE KNOW YOU'RE RENEWED NOW WITH HIM. WE WILL BE HAPPY FOR YOU! WE THANK YOU, MOTH,' FOR ALL YOU'VE DONE FOR US AND OUR FAMILIES. DON'T WORRY, WE WON'T FIGHT. LET SNICKERS, PJ AND JUNKIE REST ON YOUR LAP. GIVE DAD AND BABCI A BIG KISS FOR US. WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH AND WILL MISS YOU!

November 16, 2015

Remembering to not Forget

November 16, 2015/ jan

Remembering the Lord as He lived through one humble little lady, my mom, Jeanette Agnes Galuszka Renner.

Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things Enter into the joy of your Lord! Matthew 25:21 NKJV

Prayer

Response: “We give thanks, O Lord.”

For the eternal life Jeanette received through her faith in Jesus Christ…
For the example of her consistency of love and devotion to Christ…
For the love Jeanette unselfishly poured out on us her loved ones…
For the mercy of God in allowing Jeanette to live long enough to see even her great grand-children…
For the blessed hope of being reunited one day in the Kingdom of God…

[youtuber youtube='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5AmFu58Tk2Y']

For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. A time to be born and a time to die. A time to plant and a time to harvest. A time to kill and a time to heal. A time to tear down and a time to build up. A time to cry and a time to laugh. A time to grieve and a time to dance. A time to scatter stones and a time to gather stones. A time to embrace and a time to turn away. A time to search and a time to quit searching. A time to keep and a time to throw away. A time to tear and a time to mend. A time to be quiet and a time to speak. A time to love and a time to hate. A time for war and a time for peace... And I know that whatever God does is final. Nothing can be added to it or taken from it. God’s purpose is that people should fear him. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8,14 NLT

[youtuber youtube='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AmFM4jZasvs']

[youtuber youtube='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cc0QVWzCv9k']

Martha then said to Jesus, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died. Even now I know that whatever You ask of God, God will give You.” Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” Martha said to Him, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.” Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. Do you believe this?” She said to Him, “Yes, Lord; I have believed that You are the Christ, the Son of God, even He who comes into the world.” John 11:21-27 NASB

[youtuber youtube='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrLafWZxczI']

[youtuber youtube='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wRFNg-Eyt_0']

An excellent wife [mom, Babci, big Babci, sister, friend, neighbor…], who can find? For her worth is far above jewels… She opens her mouth in wisdom, And the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. She looks well to the ways of her household And does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and bless her… “Many (daughters) moms have done nobly But you excel them all.” Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised. Give her the product of hands, And let her works praise her in the gates. Proverbs 31:26-31

Conrad's Letter / Eulogy

THROUGH DAD'S SEVERAL HEART ATTACKS, THROUGH MOVES OUT WEST AND BACK, THROUGH FINANCIAL HARDSHIPS, THROUGH ALL OF OUR TEENAGE YEARS AND ALL THAT CAME WITH THAT..AND WITH 7 CHILDREN A LOT CAME WITH THAT! THANK YOU MOM! YOU'VE ALWAYS SUPPORTED EACH OF US TO THE POINT WE ALL THOUGHT WE WERE THE FAVORITES. SEVEN FAVORITESI THANK YOU MOM!

YOU SURVIVED AND FLOURISHED FOR 30 YEARS AFTER THE BRAIN ANEURYSM, FINALLY LETTING SOME STRAIGHT FORWARD FEELINGS COME OUT. BUT YOUR LOVE AND KINDNESS STILL CAME THROUGH.

YOU NEVER LOOKED FOR CREDIT ONLY GAVE IT, NEVER ASKED FOR ANYTHING FOR YOURSELF ONLY GAVE TO OTHERS, NEVER SPOKE BADLY ABOUT ANYONE, ONLY NICE WORDS. YOU WERE NEVER HURTFUL ONLY KIND TO EVERYONE.

WE DO BELIEVE YOU ARE A SAINT SENT FROM GOD. YOUR FAITH IS UNDENIABLE AND ALMOST GOT ALL OF US TO BE NUNS AND PRIESTS. (WELL YOU GOT ONE FOR A TIME ANYWAY.)

YOU HUNG IN THERE WITH US OVER THESE LAST SEVERAL YEARS, IN PAIN AT TIMES, I THINK TO PREPARE US FOR THIS DAY. THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE!

November 14, 2015

Running my Unique Lap in the Race of Faith (Part 2)

November 14, 2015/ jan

Well, friends, we have come to the end of our class called "Running the Race of Faith" at Patterson Park Church this fall. Some of you have joined us and followed along. Since we have taken some detours along the way at "A Branch in the Vine," click here for Part 1.

Now enjoy the remainder...and keep on running!

4. My success in running depends on my focus.

...fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you may not grow weary and lose heart.” Heb 12: 2-3

See Lessons from a Family Vacation: We become like what we focus on. Glory and grace when we focus on HIM!

5. Submission to my “Coach’s” training program is key.

--His process is "discipline" (complete child training):

You have not yet resisted to the point of shedding blood in your striving against sin;and you have forgotten the exhortation which is addressed to you as sons, “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord,Nor faint when you are reproved by Him;

--His motive is love:

For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines,

--His method is ruthless, but fatherly:

And He scourges every son whom He receives.” It is for discipline that you endure; God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline? But if you are without discipline, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Furthermore, we had earthly fathers to discipline us, and we respected them; shall we not much rather be subject to the Father of spirits, and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as seemed best to them, but...

See The Father's Pruning

--His goal is holiness; family resemblance:

He disciplines us for our good, so that we may share His holiness.

--His result is fruitfulness--righteousness, peace:

All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.

See Return to the Vineyard: Reflections on Growth

--His exhortation is "cooperate":

Therefore, strengthen the hands that are weak and the knees that are feeble, and make straight paths for your feet, so that the limb which is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather be healed. Heb 12: 4-13

See Love's Abiding Harvest

6. I must be a “team participant”.

Pursue peace with all men, and the sanctification without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one comes short of the grace of God; that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, and by it many be defiled; that there be no immoral or godless person like Esau, who sold his own birthright for a single meal. For you know that even afterwards, when he desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for repentance, though he sought for it with tears. Hebrews 12: 14-17

It's so easy to get bitter over life's hardships and the "irregular people" in our lives...even "irregular Christian people." Yes, there are fellow teammates who just don't get it...actually we may be one of those at times, huh?

I love this quote by Henri Nouwen entitled, "Stepping Over Our Wounds."

Sometimes we have to "step over" our anger, our jealousy, or our feelings of rejection and move on [a.k.a. run on]. The temptation is to get stuck in our negative emotions, poking around in them as if we belong there. Then we become the "offended one," "the forgotten one," or "the discarded one." Yes, we can get attached to these negative identities and even take morbid pleasure in them. It might be good to have a look at these dark feelings and explore where they come from, but there comes a moment to step over them, leave them behind and travel on [a.k.a. run on]. Bread for the Journey, Henri Nouwen.

Conclusion

Do you see what all this means -- all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down, start running -- never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in. Study how he did it. Because he never lost sight of where he was headed -- that exhilarating finish in and with God -- he could put up with anything along the way: cross, shame, whatever. And now he’s there, in the place of honor, right alongside God. When you find yourselves flagging in your faith, go over that story again, item by item, that will shoot adrenline into your souls. Hebrews 12: 1 - 3 (The Message)

November 14, 2015

Running my Unique Lap in the Race of Faith (Part 2)

November 14, 2015/ Jeremy Loyd

Now enjoy the remainder...and keep on running!

4. My success in running depends on my focus.

...fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you may not grow weary and lose heart.” Heb 12: 2-3

See Lessons from a Family Vacation: We become like what we focus on. Glory and grace when we focus on HIM!

5. Submission to my “Coach’s” training program is key.

--His process is "discipline" (complete child training):

You have not yet resisted to the point of shedding blood in your striving against sin; and you have forgotten the exhortation which is addressed to you as sons, “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, Nor faint when you are reproved by Him;

--His motive is love:

For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines,

--His method is ruthless, but fatherly:

And He scourges every son whom He receives.” It is for discipline that you endure; God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline? But if you are without discipline, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Furthermore, we had earthly fathers to discipline us, and we respected them; shall we not much rather be subject to the Father of spirits, and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as seemed best to them, but...

See The Father's Pruning

--His goal is holiness; family resemblance:

He disciplines us for our good, so that we may share His holiness.

--His result is fruitfulness--righteousness, peace:

All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.

See Return to the Vineyard: Reflections on Growth

--His exhortation is "cooperate":

Therefore, strengthen the hands that are weak and the knees that are feeble, and make straight paths for your feet, so that the limb which is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather be healed. Heb 12: 4-13

See Love's Abiding Harvest

6. I must be a “team participant”.

I love this quote by Henri Nouwen entitled, "Stepping Over Our Wounds."

Sometimes we have to "step over" our anger, our jealousy, or our feelings of rejection and move on [a.k.a. run on]. The temptation is to get stuck in our negative emotions, poking around in them as if we belong there. Then we become the "offended one," "the forgotten one," or "the discarded one." Yes, we can get attached to these negative identities and even take morbid pleasure in them. It might be good to have a look at these dark feelings and explore where they come from, but there comes a moment to step over them, leave them behind and travel on [a.k.a. run on]. Bread for the Journey, Henri Nouwen.

Conclusion

November 11, 2015

Shepherd Me, O God...Remembering my Mom

November 11, 2015/ jan

My brothers and sisters and I were orphaned this past week. Our darling "mommy" went home to Jesus. We knew it had to be coming one day...she was 91. But no one is ever ready. As we said our good-byes and laid her sweet, humble, precious little body to rest, we cried, sobbed, remembered, prayed, sang, ate together, hugged and were hugged. It was hard, but full of love!

There's a song and refrain from her service...one that we had chosen... that has settled deep in my soul. In fact, My sister Nancy said yesterday, "Janet, you keep humming that song!" And I was...and I am.

I would love to share this song with you...I'll never forget it!

Shepherd me, O God, beyond my wants, beyond my fears, from death into life.

1. God is my shepherd, so nothing shall I want, I rest in the meadows of faithfulness and love, I walk by the quiet waters of peace.

2. Gently you raise me and heal my weary soul, you lead me by pathwaysof righteousness and truth, my spirit shall sing the music of your Name.

3. Though I should wander the valley of death, I fear no evil, for you are at my side, your rod and your staff, my comfort and my hope.

4. You have set me a banquet of love in the face of hatred, crowning me with love beyond my pow’r to hold.

5. Surely your kindness and mercy follow me all the days of my life; I will dwell in the house of my God forevermore.

To read about the precious life of this precious lady, click here: http://www.abranchinthevine.com/my-mother-my-hero-2/

For the story behind the hymn go to http://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-shepherd-me-o-god

November 11, 2015

Shepherd Me, O God...Remembering my Mom

November 11, 2015/ jan

I would love to share this song with you...I'll never forget it!

Shepherd me, O God, beyond my wants, beyond my fears, from death into life.

1. God is my shepherd, so nothing shall I want, I rest in the meadows of faithfulness and love, I walk by the quiet waters of peace.

2. Gently you raise me and heal my weary soul, you lead me by pathways of righteousness and truth, my spirit shall sing the music of your Name.

3. Though I should wander the valley of death, I fear no evil, for you are at my side, your rod and your staff, my comfort and my hope.

4. You have set me a banquet of love in the face of hatred, crowning me with love beyond my pow’r to hold.

5. Surely your kindness and mercy follow me all the days of my life; I will dwell in the house of my God forevermore.

[youtuber youtube='http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AmFM4jZasvs']

To read about the precious life of this precious lady, click here: http://www.abranchinthevine.com/my-mother-my-hero-2/

For the story behind the hymn go to http://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-shepherd-me-o-god

November 04, 2015

Two Truths to Count on in Trials

November 04, 2015/ jan

Surely goodness and steadfast love shall follow me all the days of my life... Psalm 23:8

PAIN!

Bloody! Cutting! Unrelenting! and Soul-numbing...or is it?

For me, pain has a way of sifting through the non-essentials of life!

And I find my soul awakened abruptly from its numbing slumber to longing, loss, grief, confusion, perspective...

...but most importantly, the presence of GOD.

November 04, 2015

Two Truths to Count on in Trials

November 04, 2015/ Jeremy Loyd

Surely goodness and steadfast love shall follow me all the days of my life... Psalm 23:8PAIN!

Bloody! Cutting! Unrelenting! and Soul-numbing...or is it?

For me, pain has a way of sifting through the non-essentials of life!

And I find my soul awakened abruptly from its numbing slumber to longing, loss, grief, confusion, perspective...

...but most importantly, the presence of GOD.

God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks to us in our conscience, but shouts in our pains: It is His megaphone to rouse a deaf world. C.S. Lewis

In pain as in joy, I'm learning to hold onto two truths that are my unchangeables:

GOD IS GOODThe LORD is good...

I AM LOVED...and His steadfast love endures forever. Psalm 107:1

And it seems the enemy of our souls always assails at those two points with hislies. It happened in the Garden, and it happens every day in my life and in yours. We are just dull to recognize it.

But I'm hear to affirm by faith...

God is GOOD!

God's character is often bought into question when we face the "hard things" in life, like sickness, death, broken relationships, financial reversals, and so on.

When our son and daughter went through serious health problems (cancer and what turned out to be benign tumors) within months of each other, it threw me into incredible pain and confusion:

"How could this be happening to my children!? What kind of toxic waste dump have we been living in!?"

And I struggled on...for a long time! Finally, it was Jesus' words to His disciples, the night before He died, that stabilized me:

I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world. John 16:33

But why all the suffering? God's Word tells us that because of the Fall, everything and everyone has been suffering:

We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. Romans 8:21-23

God's plan hasn't been stymied because of man's fall into rebellion. God is weaving all things in our lives into His eternal plan in Christ.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. Romans 8:28-29

As Bible teacher Kay Arthur says,

Everything in our lives is filtered through fingers of Love!

And that brings me to my second "Unchangeable"...

I am LOVED and you are too!

We all are seeking perfect love...loving and being loved in a real and deep way. This is God-given. But I get myself into trouble when I expect perfect love from another person, or I try to live up to others' expectations simply so that they will love and accept me.

The realization that I am loved with an everlasting love by the Lover of my Soul, the Lord Jesus Christ, enables me to let others off the hook. It also frees me to admit and repent of my failures to love...and then forgive myself.

Maybe this is part of what we each must go through in adulthood in coming to grips with our "parent issues."

In a perfect world, all of us would have been parented by perfect parents who met all our needs. But in reality, none of us has...though some of us have had some pretty darn good ones!

But in finally coming to grips with our grief and loss, we can forgive others for not loving us as only God can.

It's at that moment that you and I can fully embrace God's incredible, perfect love for us...and embrace our life, choosing to love with the love with which we have been loved by God.

Do you think anyone is going to be able to drive a wedge between us and Christ's love for us? There is no way! Not trouble, not hard times, not hatred, not hunger, not homelessness, not bullying threats, not backstabbing,... None of this fazes us because Jesus loves us. I'm absolutely convinced that nothing— nothing living or dead, angelic or demonic, today or tomorrow, high or low, thinkable or unthinkable —absolutely nothing can get between us and God's love because of the way that Jesus our Master has embraced us. Romans 8:35-39 MSG

Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! Psalm 107:1 ESV

November 02, 2015

The With-ness of our God: Relationship in Every Dimension

November 02, 2015/ Jeremy Loyd

Now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, WestBow Press, and others. But first read what others are saying:

This incredible book by Jan Loyd is not a quick read…it is not a fluffy feel-good book…it is a powerful interactive book that pulled me into the truth of God’s word. To glean the fruit available within its pages, I needed to take my time in order to engage in meditation, reflection, journaling, application, and worship. This is such a powerful book because the author has built into its structure the opportunities for individual growth and personal experience – it is a text, a workbook with prompts and study questions, and a doorway to capturing my thoughts on paper.Jan does a masterful job of interweaving personal experiences, song lyrics, and metaphors with rich Bible studies and deep dives into solid theology. The book takes the reader from making biscuits and chocolate orange cake; to a walk in the vineyard and enjoying an ocean sunrise; to the life, salvation, sanctification and redemption found in Christ. Don’t miss this spiritual journey.I have a little plastic, blue boat on my office desk…once you read this book you will want one too. As I begin to walk the Appalachian Trail this summer, I plan to join Jan’s Sunrise Club and I am putting a few handwritten notes from this book regarding courage and St. Patrick’s Breastplate in my backpack. Jan’s insights will provide me (and you) with powerful truth in times of loneliness and adversity.Little words like prepositions will never be the same after an encounter with this book. These powerful words of motion, movement, and rest communicate the truth of the gospel with such significance. Jan’s insights provide wonderful windows of nuance into familiar passages of scripture. I highly recommend this book for a personal read, a group study, or a Sunday school class…but before you pick up this book, be ready to be pulled into the exciting reality of God’s word. David Rough, Ed.D. Academic Dean Dayton Christian School System
I was so blessed when I read the study that Jan Loyd has written on the “WITH-ness of our God”. It came at a time when I was weary in my spirit. I was so refreshed with the heart of the study, which is that God wants to be with us. Jan helps the learner to discover so clearly that God not only wants to be with us but He is always for us and lives in us as believers. In her study, she helps the student of Scripture capture the message of the spiritual rest that we can only have in Jesus Christ. I wholeheartedly encourage all believers to do this study. You WILL BE BLESSED! Dr. Wayne Barber Senior Pastor, Woodland Park Baptist Church Former teacher, Precept Ministries Chattanooga, TN
We have been blessed by Jan’s book, and her deep commitment to explore the depths of these ‘prepositions.’ What a gift to the body of Christ! Jan’s humble approach in this work will not only touch your heart, but I predict will help transport you (by His Spirit) to a remarkable place of meditation and devotion to God’s Word for you and yours! When you and I find ourselves in those blessed places, we are often given, by His grace, moments of insight and understanding that are not only refreshing, but are also pieces of our continuing transformation. Please join me in thanking the Holy Spirit for His leading in the inspiration and development of this book. God bless you, Jan, and thanks! Pastor Jim DeJonghe Soul Winners for Jesus Christ Dayton, Ohio
God used the truths in this study to open up a deeper understanding of what I have been given in the person of Jesus Christ, and how that understanding works itself out experientially in my daily life. Jan takes deep spiritual truths and makes them very personal and accessible to those whose hearts yearn for the deeper things of God. Let this study lead you to the richest treasure of all that we already possess–Christ Himself, “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Kathe Bricker wife, mother, Women’s Bible Study leader Patterson Park Church, Dayton, Ohio
This study changed the way I read and study Scripture. Jan shows how these seemingly insignificant words we call prepositions are relevant and packed with meaning. She takes her love for grammar and combines it with wisdom, insight, and experience to bring God’s Truth to life in an easy to understand way. Cynthia Travis wife, mother, sister in the Lord homeschool mom
This study is like worshiping for me. It’s about our relationship with, in, and through Christ. Jan has been a friend and mentor to me for over 20 years. She has a way of speaking God’s word that has brought me and many more to maturity in Christ. She once said to me, “If Christ isn’t speaking, I have nothing to say.” Amen. Shirley Wharton friend, student, and sister in Christ.

For more details about the book as well as additional endorsements, click here.

November 02, 2015

The With-ness of our God: Relationship in Every Dimension

November 02, 2015/ jan

Now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, WestBow Press, and others. But first read what others are saying:

This incredible book by Jan Loyd is not a quick read…it is not a fluffy feel-good book…it is a powerful interactive book that pulled me into the truth of God’s word. To glean the fruit available within its pages, I needed to take my time in order to engage in meditation, reflection, journaling, application, and worship. This is such a powerful book because the author has built into its structure the opportunities for individual growth and personal experience – it is a text, a workbook with prompts and study questions, and a doorway to capturing my thoughts on paper. Jan does a masterful job of interweaving personal experiences, song lyrics, and metaphors with rich Bible studies and deep dives into solid theology. The book takes the reader from making biscuits and chocolate orange cake; to a walk in the vineyard and enjoying an ocean sunrise; to the life, salvation, sanctification and redemption found in Christ. Don’t miss this spiritual journey. I have a little plastic, blue boat on my office desk…once you read this book you will want one too. As I begin to walk the Appalachian Trail this summer, I plan to join Jan’s Sunrise Club and I am putting a few handwritten notes from this book regarding courage and St. Patrick’s Breastplate in my backpack. Jan’s insights will provide me (and you) with powerful truth in times of loneliness and adversity. Little words like prepositions will never be the same after an encounter with this book. These powerful words of motion, movement, and rest communicate the truth of the gospel with such significance. Jan’s insights provide wonderful windows of nuance into familiar passages of scripture. I highly recommend this book for a personal read, a group study, or a Sunday school class…but before you pick up this book, be ready to be pulled into the exciting reality of God’s word. David Rough, Ed.D. Academic Dean Dayton Christian School System

I was so blessed when I read the study that Jan Loyd has written on the “WITH-ness of our God”. It came at a time when I was weary in my spirit. I was so refreshed with the heart of the study, which is that God wants to be with us. Jan helps the learner to discover so clearly that God not only wants to be with us but He is always for us and lives in us as believers. In her study, she helps the student of Scripture capture the message of the spiritual rest that we can only have in Jesus Christ. I wholeheartedly encourage all believers to do this study. You WILL BE BLESSED! Dr. Wayne Barber Senior Pastor, Woodland Park Baptist Church Former teacher, Precept Ministries Chattanooga, TN

We have been blessed by Jan’s book, and her deep commitment to explore the depths of these ‘prepositions.’ What a gift to the body of Christ! Jan’s humble approach in this work will not only touch your heart, but I predict will help transport you (by His Spirit) to a remarkable place of meditation and devotion to God’s Word for you and yours! When you and I find ourselves in those blessed places, we are often given, by His grace, moments of insight and understanding that are not only refreshing, but are also pieces of our continuing transformation. Please join me in thanking the Holy Spirit for His leading in the inspiration and development of this book. God bless you, Jan, and thanks! Pastor Jim DeJonghe Soul Winners for Jesus Christ Dayton, Ohio

God used the truths in this study to open up a deeper understanding of what I have been given in the person of Jesus Christ, and how that understanding works itself out experientially in my daily life. Jan takes deep spiritual truths and makes them very personal and accessible to those whose hearts yearn for the deeper things of God. Let this study lead you to the richest treasure of all that we already possess–Christ Himself, “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Kathe Bricker wife, mother, Women’s Bible Study leader Patterson Park Church, Dayton, Ohio

This study changed the way I read and study Scripture. Jan shows how these seemingly insignificant words we call prepositions are relevant and packed with meaning. She takes her love for grammar and combines it with wisdom, insight, and experience to bring God’s Truth to life in an easy to understand way. Cynthia Travis wife, mother, sister in the Lord homeschool mom

This study is like worshiping for me. It’s about our relationship with, in, and through Christ. Jan has been a friend and mentor to me for over 20 years. She has a way of speaking God’s word that has brought me and many more to maturity in Christ. She once said to me, “If Christ isn’t speaking, I have nothing to say.” Amen. Shirley Wharton friend, student, and sister in Christ.

For more details about the book as well as additional endorsements, click here.

November 02, 2015

The Father's Sandpaper

November 02, 2015/ jan

It's a precious relationship...but why is it so hard...and painful? We keep "missing" each other! Maybe we don't "get" each other?

I keep trying to respect boundaries and be "circumspect" in what I say and do...and then it comes: stuff from the past, mistakes in the present...at times, I am responsible...other times, I feel like I'm damned if I do, damned if I don't.

Not the sweetness and light I keep hoping for!

Lord, why? Why is it so hard? How do I navigate this relationship?

Then comes His still, small voice:

This relationship is Sandpaper in My Hands to shine you up...to get those rough places smooth!

Now how can I argue with that? Thank you, Lord!

It’s the child he loves that he disciplines; the child he embraces, he also corrects[actually, beats to a pulp!]... At the time, discipline isn’t much fun. It always feels like it’s going against the grain.Later, of course, it pays off handsomely, for it’s the well-trained who find themselves mature in their relationship with God. Hebrews 12:7,11 Message

Many of you are going through difficulties of every kind...excruciating, even life threatening health problems, mental and emotional heartache, relational stresses, and the list goes on. We have no idea what the Father is doing in His sovereignty.

But one thing we can count on is that He is shining us up more and more to look like His glorious Son Who indwells us.

So let's embrace Him and our life and believe with all our hearts that nothing is wasted in His almighty, loving Fatherly Hands.

PLEASE click on this link to view an awesome video of this song: Nothing is wasted -- Jason Gray

The hurt that broke your heart And left you trembling in the dark Feeling lost and alone Will tell you hope's a lie But what if every tear you cry Will seed the ground where joy will grow

And nothing is wasted Nothing is wasted In the hands of our Redeemer Nothing is wasted

It's from the deepest wounds That beauty finds a place to bloom And you will see before the end That every broken piece is Gathered in the heart of Jesus And what's lost will be found again

Nothing is wasted Nothing is wasted In the hands of our Redeemer Nothing is wasted

From the ruins From the ashes Beauty will rise From the wreckage From the darkness Glory will shine Glory will shine

Nothing is wasted Nothing is wasted In the hands of our Redeemer Nothing is wasted

From the ruins From the ashes Beauty will rise From the wreckage From the darkness Glory will shine Glory will shine

You might also like to look at "In Pain...two Things I Know"

November 02, 2015

The Father's Sandpaper

November 02, 2015/ Jeremy Loyd

It's a precious relationship...but why is it so hard...and painful? We keep "missing" each other! Maybe we don't "get" each other?

Not the sweetness and light I keep hoping for!

Lord, why? Why is it so hard? How do I navigate this relationship?

Then comes His still, small voice:

This relationship is Sandpaper in My Hands to shine you up...to get those rough places smooth!

Now how can I argue with that? Thank you, Lord!

It’s the child he loves that he disciplines; the child he embraces, he also corrects[actually, beats to a pulp!]... At the time, discipline isn’t much fun. It always feels like it’s going against the grain.Later, of course, it pays off handsomely, for it’s the well-trained who find themselves mature in their relationship with God. Hebrews 12:7,11 Message

But one thing we can count on is that He is shining us up more and more to look like His glorious Son Who indwells us.

So let's embrace Him and our life and believe with all our hearts that nothing is wasted in His almighty, loving Fatherly Hands.

PLEASE click on this link to view an awesome video of this song: Nothing is wasted -- Jason Gray

The hurt that broke your heart And left you trembling in the dark Feeling lost and alone Will tell you hope's a lie But what if every tear you cry Will seed the ground where joy will grow

And nothing is wasted Nothing is wasted In the hands of our Redeemer Nothing is wasted

It's from the deepest wounds That beauty finds a place to bloom And you will see before the end That every broken piece is Gathered in the heart of Jesus And what's lost will be found again

Nothing is wasted Nothing is wasted In the hands of our Redeemer Nothing is wasted

From the ruins From the ashes Beauty will rise From the wreckage From the darkness Glory will shine Glory will shine

Nothing is wasted Nothing is wasted In the hands of our Redeemer Nothing is wasted

From the ruins From the ashes Beauty will rise From the wreckage From the darkness Glory will shine Glory will shine

You might also like to look at "In Pain...two Things I Know"

October 30, 2015

Embracing my Today...TODAY!

October 30, 2015/ Jeremy Loyd

Sharing this post from my first year of blogging 2011. I need it again. How about you?

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us be glad and rejoice in it! Psalm 118:24

Several years ago, I received an email from a dear friend and former college roommate DeeDee. She sent this email to family and friends to memorialize her mom who had just passed away at the age of 105. I remember DeeDee's mom Esther as a "spunky lady" who "embraced life." The email reflected just that and was entitled "Esther's motto."

Today Outside my window, a new day I see, And only I can determine what kind of day it will be, It can be busy and sunny, Laughing and gay, Or boring and cold, unhappy And grey, My own state of mind is the determining key, For I am only the person I let myself be,

I can be thoughtful and do all I can to help, Or be selfish and think just of myself, I can enjoy what I do and make it seem fun, Or gripe and complain and make It hard on someone, I can be patient with those

Who may not understand, Or belittle and hurt them as Much as I can, But I have faith in myself, And believe what I say And I personally intend to Make the best of each day.

----------------------------------------------------

Now I don't think DeeDee or Esther would say that having a positive attitude is the answer to our every problem. But knowing them, I do think they would say, "Embrace your today! Hug it to your breast, and live it with courage, tenacity, and unselfishness."

I was thinking about this very thing as my husband John was going through cardiac rehab. John's heart attack in July 2012 was in the artery that doctor's call "the widow maker." So I am well aware that I could have become a widow that very day, as many of our college friends and other peers had already become. And John could have said good-bye to this earth and joined those loved ones now with the Lord.

So here are some of my reflections on TODAY:

1. TODAY is a gift. It's all I have...and it has been given to me by my Creator.

This is the day which the LORD has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24

2. TODAY will never be again. It is totally unique with unique challenges and opportunities. Yesterday is gone...tomorrow is in the mind of God.

Come now, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit"— yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. Instead you ought to say, "If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that." James 4:13-14 [See also Psalm 90:3-6; Luke 12:22-32]

3. TODAY is filled with opportunities:

*The opportunity to "love on" those around me -- my husband, my children, my grandsons, my neighbors, my friends, my co-workers, my students, and others who may cross my path today.

But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness. Hebrews 3:13 NIV

Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ...Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Gal 6:2,10 NIV

On facebook, my daughter Beth had just posted a cute little story about my then 5 year old grandson Kaden.

Kaden said to Beth, "Did you know we each have an invisible bucket of happiness, and when we are mean, it is like dumping somebody's bucket?"

Kaden had just said hi to the neighbor and told his mom that he was filling up her bucket. Apparently this was from a kindergarten lesson based on the book, Have You Filled a Bucket Today by Carol McCloud. Wow, maybe I need to go back to kindergarten...or at least read the book!

*The opportunity to do my work with all the skill that God has put in me. There is great satisfaction in doing my work well, whether it's at home or at my job.

Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom. Eccl 9:10a NIV

Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. 1Peter 4:10-11 NIV

*The opportunity to walk with GOD, the Eternal I AM in a deeper way, hearing His voice and following Him. And this, of course, is most important of all!

For he says, "In a favorable time I listened to you, and in a day of salvation I have helped you." Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation. 2Cor 6:2

So, as the Holy Spirit says: “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion, during the time of testing in the wilderness..." Hebrews 3:7-8

My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. John 10:27

Over the years, one of my favorite studies to teach from the Scriptures has been the Old Testament Names of God. In that study, one of the most exciting insights is that God's memorial name Jehovah, meaning I AM, expresses a God Who is eternally Present, totally above and beyond our chronological time, yet totally present in it with us and for us. In the course of teaching that study, the Holy Spirit moved upon my heart to write a meditation in the first person. I pray that this brief meditation will fill you with courage and excitement to embrace your today also:

All that I AM, I AM for you! I am everything and anything that you will ever need:

I AM ELOHIM, your Creator. I made you exactly the way you are. You can be the unique person I created you to be. You don’t have to fit into someone else’s mold or picture of what you should be.

I AM EL ELYON, your God most High, the Sovereign Ruler of the universe. I am in control over all your circumstances. I am weaving all your hurts and failures into my sovereign plan for My glory, bringing good out of them for yourself and others, as you trust Me.

I AM EL ROI, your God Who Sees and cares about every trial and heartache and injustice. Others may judge you and use you and write you off, but I don’t. I care and open My arms wide to receive you and bless you.

I AM ADONAI, your loving Lord and Master. Present your body to me. I will lead you in my good, pleasing, and perfect will (Romans 12: 12-2). You can trust Me to be all that you need and to use you in My kingdom.

I AM EL SHADDAI, your All-Sufficient God. “Open your mouth wide and I will fill it” (Psalm 81: 10.) I am the Source of all you will ever need. I am your strength and the fulfiller of all My promises to you, my child.

I AM JEHOVAH-JIREH, your LORD Who Provides. I provided a Substitute, My Son the Lamb, for you, so that you could be saved and enter into relationship with Me your God and Father. I have wiped away all your guilt and shame.

I AM JEHOVAH, your “I AM”, your Self-Existent LORD. I am your life always and forever.

I AM JEHOVAH-RAPHA, the LORD your Healer. I am the source of all your healing; physical, emotional, relational, and spiritual.

I AM JEHOVAH-NISSI, the LORD your Banner. I give you victory over all your enemies: the world, the flesh, and the devil. They are conquered foes as you rest in Me.

I AM JEHOVAH-MEKODDISHKEM, the LORD Who Sanctifies You. You can rest from your self-effort. Why do you try to do for yourself by your own religious good works what only I can do—make you holy? Throw off that “yoke of bondage” (Galatians). I came to set you free! “And if the Son shall make your free, you shall be free indeed” (John 8). Rest in Me and I will sanctify you. I will do it!

I AM JEHOVAH-SHALOM, the LORD Who Himself is your Peace. Because of My presence within you, I can provide the peace that passes understanding no matter what the circumstances. Trust and rest in Me.

I AM JEHOVAH-SABBAOTH, your LORD of Hosts. Greater am I Who is in you than my enemy who is in the world. Victory is secure—I have all the forces of heaven and earth at My command. Come to Me when you are at the end of your rope. You are more than a conqueror in Me and My Love.

I AM JEHOVAH-RAAH, the LORD your Shepherd, Who seeks after, nurtures, protects, leads, and speaks to you your whole life. You are perfectly cared for and secure in My loving arms (john 10: 27-29).

I AM JEHOVAH-TSIDKENU, the LORD your Righteousness. You are fully righteous and acceptable to Me because you are in My Son. He actually became sin when He died on the Cross, so that you could become His righteousness. Glory in that, dear child!

I AM JEHOVAH-SHAMMAH, your LORD Who is There. I have said (and I won’t change My mind), I will never leave you, nor will I ever, ever forsake you. So you can confidently say in every situation, The Lord is my Helper. I will not be afraid. What can man do to me? (Hebrews 13: 5b-6) You are My home (John 15), My sanctuary (1Cor 6: 19-20; Col 1: 27).

So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12

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A Branch in the Vine

Prayer

Conrad's Letter / Eulogy

A Branch In the Vine