Because He Knows...

Isaiah 33:22

For the Lord is our judge
the Lord is our lawgiver,
the Lord is our king;
it is he who will save us.

I know I have read this verse many times before. It is one I have highlighted in my Bible. But this morning I READ this verse. You know? So, this is what I'm thinking.

1. He wrote the law so He knows it like no one else.
2. He is alone is our judge; so He knows when we break His laws like no one else would.
3. He is the king who has the power to forgive and overrule the judge. (Him)
4. Because He is king, he knows all things, including that we can never keep His laws.

Common thread? HIM! He does it all. Our only responsibility is to acknowledge that we need Him; that we cannot keep these laws. For me, that comes easily since I spent much of my life failing miserably. But, thanks be to God who gives us the victory, He stepped up in my place and took the punishment. Death had to occur to satisfy the law. However,  He didn't stay dead. So now, because He did not stay dead, I don't have to stay dead either. Because He has become me. Mind boggling. Amazing.

He knows the price needed like no one else because he made the laws in the first place. Now the lawmaker, the judge and the king are all satisfied. Full circle. All about Him.

WOW! Feeling blessed, feeling free, feeling indebted ... all to Him. Now I just need to remember to LIVE that his amazing sacrifice on my behalf will not be useless.

His birth is the greatest gift ever to all of mankind. I'm thinking of a chorus we used to sing:

"Isn't He wonderful, wonderful, wonderful?
Isn't Jesus, my Lord, wonderful?"

Yes He is!

Merry Christmas!

Coverings

A few days back Royce and I were having one of those lazy days just driving casually along, not talking much. Actually, I was driving, which makes this revelation a tad more interesting, since for a few moments I was completely caught up in God's presence. I could hear Royce telling me something in the background but he sounded a little like Charlie Brown's teacher -- you know, blah, blah, blah....nothing personal about his talking, I had just left the car for a few minutes.

The sky was blue, blue with large fluffy white clouds scattered around. Off to one side were white swirls of clouds that looked like brush strokes on an artist's pallet. Gradually, I realized we were under a huge tent; one with a stunningly blue top and sides with wisps of white flurries and billowing cotton balls. The sides came down to the ground, forming not only a canopy but a bubble completely encapsulating us in a protective covering. All around me, people were going about their business; driving, talking, walking, shopping. Trees were growing in the atmosphere provided by this amazing covering; flowers bloomed along the side of the road and birds flitted here and there overheard, obviously enjoying the sunlight and shadows alike.

The thought crossed my mind that God could have left out the sky when He created earth. We could be constantly looking up at a huge black hole that goes on forever with only other planets far away here and there. We could be constantly worrying about drifting out into outer space and getting lost in that blackness or drawn up to one of the stars or planets far, far away. But, no, in His graciousness and love, the Lord made a beautiful sky to cover His creation and because of that we feel settled, covered and loved under this amazing piece of God's handiwork.

My friend, Cynthia and I share a love of the sky and it's beauty but up until now, I only saw the beauty. Who hasn't felt comforted by the blue sky and beautiful sun shining down on us? Even a cloudy rainy day can bring comfort and a sense of closeness. And who hasn't peered into the clouds to find animals, faces, even angels looking back at us?

And so, in those few moments I was caught up with the Lord, I thanked Him over and over for this beautiful canopy that covers us every day. To me its a reminder of His presence that covers us, protects us, and goes with us wherever we travel. Nothing is out of His control and all things are working together for our good if we love Him and are called according to His purpose.

Today we rest under the canopy of the sky as well as the canopy of His presence and feast on the love He is constantly giving. Because He loves, He gives .... everything we need to succeed in this world that he created just for us.

And we rest in His promises over our families and over us, even when pain and darkness comes to our lives, even when threatening storms cloud the horizon, even then, still we rest in His promises.  Just like the sky that will remain until He speaks otherwise, His love and care over us will remain until the end of time.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jer. 29:11

God Is Bigger Than The Boogie Man

"God is bigger than the boogie man. He's bigger than Godzilla or the monsters on T.V."  I love this Veggie Tales song.  It was written for little children with a message that is simple and easy to understand. I guess that is what makes it work for me.  As we all know, the boogie man is very real and comes in all sizes and shapes. He infiltrates any aspect of our lives that he can get even a toe hold in. Even the slightest unhealthy mindset can open a door to his deceit. And once in, he sets up shop with all kinds of lies and insults. He can mess up a really beautiful day in a heartbeat. I know the popular thing to say now would be, "if we let him." Well, duh! Who ever intends to "let" him do anything? It's just that we get caught up in living our lives and he slinks around waiting for just the right moment. Sometimes he can slip in there before we even realize it.

Thank goodness, Jesus is never taken by surprise in anything, much less by the antics and deceits of this guy. The Lord is always covering, protecting, caring and helping His children. If the enemy slips in past us, Jesus is there waiting for him. We all know He  is bigger than any deceit, any interruption or blockage the other guy can sneak into our lives. Someone once told me, "It's good to know all about your enemy and then forget him." I like that. We know what he is capable of so we are not taken by surprise nor drawn into his schemes but we do not focus on him but on the One who saved us and took us as his own. We concentrate on the One who is constantly by our side; leading us in the way that is right for us.

 Finally, brethern, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of a good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Phil 4:8

We all have had times of pain in our lives; some more than others. Of course my mind goes back to the year 2000 and the horror of the burn unit, but I can also name many other battles, places of pain and discouragement the Lord has brought me through over the years. The bar was raised a little higher with each victory. Every time He brought me out, He brought me up a little higher. I love Him more with each new revelation; and I have discovered that Isaiah 45:3 is true; there are treasures in the darkness and riches in the secret places. We don't have to be afraid in the dark times; He is there.

Today let's remember the victories; let's remember the celebration of answered prayers and then let's dig down inside to get what we need to reach up high and take hold of His hand. Above all of the frustration and confusion, there stands Jesus in complete control.

Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross; despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Heb 12:2

And oh, one more thing: God is bigger than the boogie man!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-WeeIn9sRY

Mamma Hugs

It isn't Mother's Day; it isn't her birthday; it is no where near the holidays, but this past week I've been missing my mom. She passed over to dance in the heavenlies in 1995. Wouldn't you think I would be over missing her by now? But, no. 

What I wouldn't give to see her face, hear her voice and get one of those strong, encouraging hugs. Is it just me, or do Mom's have a way of connecting with our emotions in a way no one else can....ever. Her hug was different from anyone on earth.

Perhaps its because we just moved into our new house. When Mom was here with us, any big change; or any small change, was discussed at length with her. We could sit for hours talking about nothing, which is not to say we agreed on everything. Far from it; but we talked about everything. She pushed my buttons on a regular basis and I'm sure I did the same for her, but when two people are so close the button pushing is just part of the relationship.

I remember her laughing and telling me she wished she could be around to see me when I get old. Of course it was so she could say, "I told you so." She's probably laughing right now and saying it from Heaven... Heaven.. her home now; my future home. (big sigh here.) One day, Mom, we are going to hook our arms and walk around Heaven for about a thousand years and catch up. We will laugh at all the silly things that bugged us about each other; we will remember and be amazed at how the Lord kept us all those years, and we will remember the fun, the laughter and the intimacy.

And there will be joy. Joy at seeing each other and joy at finally being with Jesus. How wonderful it will be to stand beside my Mom and talk to Jesus. Maybe, just maybe, He will wrap his arms around both of us at one time for a family hug. 

But for now, I am content and happy in our new home while deep in my heart and memory is a lovely lady who is a great example of a wife, mother, grandmother and person. Her life struggles growing up as the oldest of six children, living through the depression, sending a husband and four brothers off to war plus the later struggles with a husband who was wheelchair bound would make a book so staggering some would doubt it's truth. My mom was of 'that' generation. She was strong, competent, hard working and committed, but also loving, encouraging and funny. Early on I learned that humor and positive thinking gets me through a lot of hard places. 

Thanks, Mama, for loving me and never giving up on me. You always saw things in me that no one else did .... not even me. When you were on this earth, I had a protector, an encourager and a friend. I love you in a way that defies words. Save me a seat at dinner - I will see you one of these days.

It's Time For A Change

We were busy emptying out the house; piece by piece. No one realized Little T was on the couch until his head popped up. "People are taking stuff everywhere and I don't understand what's going on. I am SO confused!" Bless his heart, he had no idea he was voicing Grandma's feelings as well.

It is a mega season change in our lives; one that has been hovering on the horizon for a few years now. You know how one season blends into another without much notice and then one day you wake up and snow is everywhere, or it is 80 degrees at 9:00 in the morning? It's then you realize, the season really has changed. I think that's where we are. Still not sure though, if it's snow or hot because I'm not sure which direction the season is going.

Seriously, we have sold our beautiful home, given away or sold truck loads of 'stuff,' filled up a very, very large trailer-sized dumpster, two pods, two storage units, and one basement. The rest came with us. Let me say right here, storage units are right up there with laundromats. Necessary, useful, hot, miserable and annoying. Having said that, I am thankful for them. It's a new experience to 'run by the storage unit.' Please tell me this aspect of our new season is temporary.

We decided to make this move because we are not as young as we once were. The house seemed to get bigger every time we cleaned it, the yard grew so big there wasn't enough grass to cover it and bare spots popped up everywhere. Then, of all things, the steps going down to the lower level got higher and steeper and took much more energy to descend and then ascend again. On top of all that, our once young and lively brood of grandchildren decided to grow up. Of course we have a few that are still young enough to think sleeping at Grandma's house is really cool, and for that we are very thankful, but most of them prefer their girls, their cars, college and/or their jobs. Shudder.

So, here we are. In between houses, but not in between homes, thanks to family who love us. We can only pray they continue to love us long enough for us to find a new place. Or, maybe when our time runs out here, we can move on to the next family. The upside is, no housework, no yard work, no cooking .....hey this isn't so bad after all!

God is faithful in every season and His love and grace are sufficient for any challenge.

Sleepless in Sharpsburg

It is that time late at night when I have been in bed for a while but sleep isn't anywhere to be found. I have thought through all the 'challenges' of the day and pondered on the causes of each. I have rehearsed in my mind exactly what I should have said and how I should have responded but didn't. Next time though I will. Next time I will know just what to say. Uh-huh.

And there has been the time of prayer; of thanking the Lord for His endless mercy to me and to my family. You have to understand, I am a Mom and a Grandma, so my prayers can get pretty specific at times. In the midst of prayers for healing, deliverance, salvation, restored relationships, are requests for a lingering cough, a missing tooth, a new bike, a good game, and someone to play with at recess.

So, here I am in the night. Everyone else in the house - and who knows how many or how few that may be - are all asleep. It is quiet and dark. Even if they were awake I could not explain my thoughts to any of them. Some things are so deep inside that even those closest to me do not know about them. Some of them are so deep inside I can only guess at their origin and certainly cannot put those thoughts and feelings into words. I struggle. I toss around in the bed. I refuse to open my eyes because I am determined to go to sleep. I write books, clean house, prepare meals, finish my family cookbook, make movies and take photographs; all in the stillness of the night, without leaving my bed.

Finally, after several hours, my spirit begins to quiet. I sink a little deeper into my pillow. It is even quieter than before. I feel relaxed, I feel loved, secure. It is OK if I cannot form words for my heart thoughts. I begin to feel warm and loved. There is a gentle covering of all the days struggles.

He is here.

He wraps His strong arms around me and gently holds me. Tears fill my eyes and slip down my cheeks; tears of love. He is here and nothing else matters. I know He understands every feeling,  every memory, every pain, every dream, everything that is 'me.' He gets it - He gets me. And amazingly, He loves me.

In the gentleness of the night He has come to hold me and all is right inside. My heart is still beating, my mind is awake, but I am not here - I am with Him and all is well.

Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and from Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son, will be with us in truth and love.
2 John 1:2-4 

Who Was The Masked Man??

Thirty years ago I was a single mom with three children and a new found relationship with Jesus Christ. After much prayer, screaming, crying, surrender and soul searching, I had accepted that I would be single forever. Jesus fulfilled my every need, and I was completely in love with Him, but there was still this little nagging deep inside that longed for my soul mate here on this earth. It was something the Lord chose not to take away. I wondered why.

Then one day, I heard something. It was far off in the distance, very faint. Remember the old Western movies when they would put their ear to the ground and then stand up and say, "one rider on a fast horse." It was kinda like that. I passed it off and went about my day.

A few days later I heard it again, only stronger, closer. After that I would be working away or just sitting and thinking and there would be this flash of something white. It always passed so quickly I could not tell what it was, much less describe it. The sightings and the hoof beats grew closer and I saw them and heard them more and more often. One day I was able to distinguish a cape; another day I saw a sword; later there was the glimpse of a beautiful steed tossing his mane in the air.

By now, I was enthralled with the mystery heading my way. Could it be? Could it POSSIBLY be? But no, I had told the Lord I only wanted Him and that I would stay single for Him forever. But now this. What exactly was this? Every day it grew closer and closer. Then one day, I heard the Lord say, "unencumber yourself."  I knew I was making room for something or someone new in my life.

Late in December the sightings had become daily and the sound of the hoof beats thunderous. Then early one morning in late December the phone rang.

"Hey Booger. Can I come go to church with you?" It was my old flame, Royce.

And the rest, as they say, is history. My knight in shining armor had arrived!

My dear Royce, you rescued me, covered me, loved me, paid my bills, held me close and loved my children. It's been an amazing ride - the best of my life! I know the Lord sent you to me and for that I am forever grateful. He knew just who I needed.

Happy Anniversary Dear!

Beauty in Barrenness

Even in death there is the beauty of life just waiting to burst forth. The seed is in the ground and it appears that death is everywhere. Life has ceased and dust covers all. But in that darkness, in that barrenness, there is beauty. It is the beauty of surrender; of trusting; of knowing that He is still in control; that life will begin anew.

Jesus is the seed of God the Father, placed in this world to die and reproduce. We are His reproductions.

^{Matthew 27: 35} And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.

⁴⁵ Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour.

Winter is cold and drab. The sky is often cloudy and dreary. We see brown sticks where lively green tress once were. The flowers from last season are all gone, leaving no evidence they will bloom again. But the beauty is that beneath the earth, in the darkness, in the the quietness of our soul, these tiny bulbs are drawing nutrients from the soil in preparation for a new season.

Matthew 27:59 And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth,

⁶⁰ And laid it in his own new tomb, which he had hewn out in the rock: and he rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre, and departed.

The winters of our life are a quiet place where nothing seems to be happening; it is a place of death. But that death is beautiful because it will usher in new life. 

I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. John 12:24


Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. Psm 116:15. 

In times of barrenness we wait with expectancy and prayer until the Lord comes and brings new life.

Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion; for, lo, I come, and I will dwell in the midst of thee, saith the Lord. Zechariah 2:9-11

^{Matthew 28:2} And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.

⁶ He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.

⁷ And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.

There is resurrection power in our lives as well.

¹¹ But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.

Hang on Sloopy - springtime is close! 

Awesome Aunt Agnes

This past Sunday we celebrated the life of my Aunt Agnes. It was a bittersweet day with memories of the past alongside celebrations that she is safely home with her Lord. Isn't that always the case? Good for the one gone on but not good at all for those of us left behind. We miss her smile, that twinkle in her eyes, her gentle ways, her love.




This morning I was thinking over all the things she taught me: everything from how to apply makeup to how to peel a boiled egg. Start with the big end where the pocket it - it works every time. But, more than what she taught me was the example she lived before me. I remember the summers she paid me to come and play with my cousins. Seriously, she did just that. They were only a couple of years younger than me but she paid me to come and stay at their house every day during the summer. I thought it was a big time job but looking back I suspect she did that to keep me from having to stay home alone all summer.

My mom worked about a mile from their house so I would ride to work in the carpool with Mom. The plan was for me to walk the mile down to their house in the morning; no big deal for a twelve year old girl. The problem was the dog. He lived on the way and I had a big issue with dogs. So, Aunt Agnes stopped mid-way of preparing for her work day and drove up to meet me every morning. That dog wasn't going to hurt me, but she knew I was scared. That is how she was; quietly giving of herself. It may seem like a small thing, but to me at twelve years old it was huge.

Aunt Agnes was one of five aunts on my mom's side of the family. They were all great in their own ways, but during my childhood, she was the most hands on. I guess you could say she was 'user-friendly.' She and my uncle often visited us and it was always a happening because they were so much fun to have around. I am sorry I didn't take the time to sit and tell her and Uncle Jr how much they mean to me; that they have been two pillars in my life for as long as I can remember. That they have always encouraged me and loved me, even in my worst of times. But one day, she and I will hook arms and take a walkabout in Heaven where I will reveal all my heart thoughts to her.

I realize that in the busyness of today's world, families are not always as close as they were when I was a child. The Sunday trip to Grandma's house doesn't happen as often as before. You know, those Sunday afternoons when the grownups sat around in chairs outside and talked and laughed and ate good food while the kids ran around playing silly games and establishing clubs and forts. There was an acceptance and a freedom in knowing we were much loved. Cousins were in a class all their own and it did not matter the age difference, we all had something in common: we were family.  Of course that did not mean we were free to act anyway we wanted to. Nope, Mama Sosebee was quick to keep us in line at her house. But to me, that is just one more indication of her love for us.

Mother once told me that in all the years they were together as a family, she never heard one of my aunts have harsh words with another. And in turn, I never heard my mom say anything negative or critical about any of them. I, personally, find that amazing. The bond of love and friendship was birthed in God and showed in their everyday lives. That is the core of what they have taught me. Unconditional love; commitment to family; concern for the lives of others; and being there. Always being there. There is strength in a family that stays true to God and to each other.

I pray today that I can be hands on and user friendly to those God has placed in my life, that His love will be free to flow through me.  His love surpasses all hurt, offense, wounds and grief. Today my prayer is for my Uncle Jr and his family; that God's love and comfort will reach deep into their spirits and bring His peace.

The Promise

It is very quiet and peaceful this morning. Looking out our bay window I see a sunny sky for the first time in a few days. Just staring at that soft blue sky with a fluffy white cloud here and there brings a calmness. I'm content to sit and drink in God's gift to me this morning; another beautiful day filled with His love. His handiwork is all around me, in the beauty of nature.

There is a little drama playing out in our backyard; one we see every year about this time. The trees are all barren and brown. Long spindly pines have a few green needles here and there but they are mostly at the top of their skinny trunks. The hardwoods are void of any foliage.  They are brown and empty. Row after row of barrenness, as far as I can see. The trees reach up to the sky as if they are pleading to be released into new life. The grass is brown as well with a few muddy circles here and there left over from the recent rains. Overall its a drab scene.

Right in the middle of all this barrenness is a yellow bell bush in full bloom. It's tiny yellow leaves are standing at attention, reaching up and capturing all the rays of the sun and reflecting them back into its surroundings. I love this bush and its message to me that spring is so very close. Every year I watch for it's blooming as a sign that new life is about to explode.

A few weeks from now when everything around it has burst forth, the yellow bell bush will barely be noticed. It's yellow leaves will turn green and it will blend in with its surroundings. But today, this week, is it's time to shine. This little bush has a purpose, a command to herald the beginning of a new season. When everything around it is still asleep and barren, this little bush is shining, alive and bright. 

I'm sure the little bush thinks he is all alone out there, listening to the Master's command to come forth, but little does he know that in the front yard there are yellow flowers blooming as well. They too are heralding the beginning of a new season and they too will blend in with the new colors in a few weeks. But they and the bush will have done their job. They have notified us that change is coming. Time to get out a new wardrobe, don new shoes and walk forth into spring. 

Thank you, God for the seasons in our lives, both in the natural and in the spiritual. You never leave us barren and drab but always there is a springtime. Even in the most dreary winters, there is the promise of spring. Thank you for the centennials who stand strong and point the way to new life, even when they feel all alone. We move from glory to glory on the wings of your love. 

Thank You For Your Service, Sir

This weekend, Royce and I drove to FL for our annual family reunion. It was around noon on Friday when we stopped to eat before helping with the set up for Saturday's festivities. One of our favorite places to eat in Webster is at the Farmer's Market Cafe where they serve home cooked food. They have the best fried chicken and fresh peas and beans ... and banana puddin'!

Royce and I were waiting in the rockers on the front porch enjoying the crisp, sunny FL air with an old friend when an elderly couple came up. The man walked slowly with two canes while she followed with one cane. They were typical of older people who have learned to manage as their bodies begin to slow down but Royce's friend explained what was special about this couple. He was a veteran of World War II and had been injured at Iwa Jima.

He was 17 when he joined the Marines and was sent to Iwa Jima where he had his knee cap blown off and had walked with assistance since.

We said goodbye to our friend and went inside to eat. We were seated right next to the couple and as we listened to their conversation we noticed the gentleness and joy in their countenance and their words. People spoke and smiled and this sweet old man responded with the grace of the elderly.

We wanted to pay their check, but before we could, the waitress came over to their table to say that someone had paid for their lunch. The retired Marine was confused as to why someone would do that.

Over at the register stood this tall, robust cowboy. He wore working jeans, really cool rugged boots, an obviously much used work jacket and a rather large cowboy hat.  He was not a showroom kinda cowboy but an honest-to-goodness hard working guy, probably 6'4" and obviously very strong and capable. The type guy you want on your team.  He turned around from the cash register and walked to the couple, tipped his hat to the Marine, then in a deep Sam Elliott type voice softened with respect, he said:

"Thank you for your service to our country, Sir."

Yep, Royce and I are tearing up. Then to the wife he tips his hat again, takes her hand and says in a gently resounding voice, "thank you m'am." As he walked away he laid a hand on the Marine's shoulder and said, "God bless you, Sir."

That was all. No big show or long talk. Nothing showy or loud, just an honest thank you from a young man to an old one.

Tears are now running down our cheeks but there was more. When the waitress came to clear their table the Marine handed her an obviously large tip which she tried to refuse. His reply: "No ma'm. This man has been kind to us and we need to spread it around."  Like his new friend, no big show, just an honest desire to pass on a blessing.

By now I am a mess and my lunch is just sitting on my plate getting cold. We got a chance to talk for a bit with the Marine  and say our thanks. He could not stop thanking us. How amazing that this kind and gentle man in his 80's or 90's, who had given much for all of us had such a thankful heart. No grudges, no animosity, no complaining - only a heart to bless others.

I am certain there are many of all ages with that same attitude, but Friday morning was a reminder to us of the gentleness that once graced our country as a whole. Simple things like respecting our elders; loving our neighbors; showing honor to whom honor is due and loving with grace are all standards that God has placed in the hearts of His children. In Webster, FL, as well as towns big and small all over America, people still hold to those values. It's like an underground army strong in Him, marching to His beat.

It would be nice if I had taken a photo to post with this blog; or even had I asked the Marine's name; but the moment was too intimate to sensationalize it. Instead I have this memory in my heart and I pray that somehow we can all grasp the importance of this simple encounter.

We moved on to setting up tables and chairs and putting out flowers and all the paraphernalia necessary for a family reunion. We were busy with life's routines, but in my heart I had a new friend. I believe that one day I will stand in Heaven and hear his name and I will know this dear man. Thank you Jesus for kindness.

God bless America and all He has placed within our borders. We are blessed beyond words.

^{Galations 5:22} But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,

²³ Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.