WAKING AFTER ELEVEN

     

     My head lifted from the pillow for the second time. Morning light peeked in my way through shuttered windows. Taking inventory, I felt rested, without the normal residue of haze that often accompanied my rising on other days this spring, due to the free-blown pollen from trees and plants, which had shared their wealth.

     Surely my eyes deceived me. Glancing at my bedside clock, I initially mistook the time for five minutes before six. No, it could not be. My husband left the house hours ago. The garage door groaned as its lift woke me, and it was light outside. Picking up my watch, I checked in disbelief. Not five before six, but half past eleven! Even though I am not a morning person, this was half past Tuesday, and most of my day was spent in dream-filled slumber.
     Embarrassed, a few minutes later when the phone rang, I admitted to Jerry that, yes, I was up, but when he pulled in for a coffee with me at 11:45, the whole story came out about the few moments that had transpired in my day before he arrived. We laughed. Quite unusual for me, though retired, I still like to get a good start on the day, especially today. 
     Today, Tuesday, is the beginning of my three-day writing spree. I reserve these days for creativity. Yesterday, Monday, I laundered clothes, sheets, and towels, stretched sourdough, swept and mopped the front porch, and cut up produce to add to a roast. So, today I panicked as it struck me that half of my precious creative Tuesday was spent comatose.
     Then, lingering over coffee, I read some lines from a thoughtful poet. I clicked to hear a recording of her reading her own words, hoping to gain a deeper understanding of her message. She read deliberately and then explained her inspiration and interpretation, in answer to the proddings of a podcaster. Her insights about a moment in her day were profound.
     I was stirred into contemplation. My waking at eleven now has my thoughts wandering to and fro. Was this late waking to stimulate this moment of wondering? Was this a mirror to reflect on how, not just today, but in all of life, don’t we all, in our understanding, wisdom, relationships, and awareness, wake up after eleven?

CAN'T FIND MY SOCKS!

 

Almost through.
Drawers cleared and reorganized. Yuck! More decisions!

     

     Raking through a pile of socks on the shelf, I only found my dark colored short footie socks. Hmmm. I have a new light colored pair of walking shoes, and I couldn't find any white socks. So, I went to my dresser, where my sock drawer had become a catch-all for odds and ends. I hoped to find the socks that had eluded me.

     Wow, I found so many hoarded keepsakes. Birthday cards given to me in previous years, pressed pennies from Pikes Peak, Carlsbad Caverns, and twenty other places I've visited, supplements galore, photos that I intended to pass on to some of my children, half a dozen face masks from 2022, and then just a lot of odds and ends that I stopped to wonder why I kept them around.

     A little ticked off that I still did not find any short socks, I looked at the contents of the top drawers and knew my plans for the morning were doomed. In the back corners of my mind, way back, I found a checklist with cobwebs covering it that said, 'Get rid of junk and clean out the dresser drawers.' I have never had that on my daily agenda in years.

     Now I was a little agitated because my morning of writing was going to take a detour to, of all things, sorting through stuff. Fun. Fun. Fun.

     As I sorted, I thought of another time this week when plans went awry. We were going to have lunch with a pastor and his wife. At the last minute, I prompted my husband, Jerry, to text and make sure we were still on before we drove the twenty miles for our lunch date. 

     As it turned out, his wife was unable to attend. I was disappointed, as I had wanted to get better acquainted with her. We have spoken to their Spanish/English church in Seguin, so we would be seeing them more in the future, but we looked forward to hearing about their work there and hoped to pray for them and encourage.

     I almost did not go with Jerry because it might be better man-to-man. I also felt sad not to be able to enjoy her company, even though I knew she was swamped with her work at the church and had children at home. It was Memorial Day, a holiday as well.

     But I did go. My husband wanted me to go with him, but deep inside, I felt God wanted me there as well. The carne guisada was delicious, the coffee smooth and good. The room was chillier than I liked it, but as soon as we started sharing stories and bantering back and forth, I stopped noticing the temperature. Pastor David was encouraged, and we were encouraged. This was a divine moment, and I had almost missed out.

     We thanked the pastor for his generosity with his time. He drove off to work with his brother for the rest of the afternoon. I knew his heart had to feel like ours. Elated, warm, joyful, and thrilled to see his vision and how he trusted God to work it all out. I left feeling on cloud nine and thanking God for this opportunity to be in the presence of this noble man of God.

     Back to my mess. Yes, this is the same week I had this heavenly meeting. You would think that I would learn to embrace life's little quirks by now, but God is patient, and he is still working on me.

     I did make some headway by organizing all my extra cosmetics in one container, freeing up most of one drawer. But if you could see the top of my dresser now, you would see all the piles of undecided items that don't know where to go.

     I managed to throw out much of my 'priceless' momentos, things I have not looked at or used for years. I put photos in bags for each child to sort through. Filed some poetry and writing. Said goodbye to old cards. Cleared and made way for my socks to return to their favorite drawer. 

     Not everything is in perfect order or in its perfect place yet, but the process has begun and may take more than a few hours. This started as a hunt for socks for today and ended up clearing some things away that had been waiting to be noticed and removed.

     Still some piles to go through and reorganize. Still more drawers, closets, and corners that are waiting for me to manage, but even in the chaotic state of affairs, I know that it looks worse before it looks great. 

     My attitude and blood pressure are down a few notches. I have to apologize to my husband for sounding a little cranky when, in the middle of a mess, he came in all cheery to welcome me into the day. However, I am now committed to taking this organizational duty to task. A few hours a day, a few days here and there, until the deed is done. 

     I understand that this is life. It comes with interruptions and throws us into situations that I do not expect. But somehow, God takes even things like looking for a pair of white shortie socks and turns them into something for my good if I just do not resist.

     Romans 8:28 NIV 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.

     This is such a silly example. Right? Some would say, "What's the big deal?" 

     First of all, I learned to always be on guard. Second, it is in the little moments that God builds my endurance and teaches me lessons to prepare me for the bigger moments yet to come.

     

     

SMILES

 Our smiles playfully travel on racing feet

A volley from one bounces back to the other.

Smiles shared sometimes change into laughter

One slips from me to you as we grin and giggle.

Spontaneously, peeking sideways, sure enough

We catch each other sharing the same smile.

Some grins are donned while far away

I share them with others when I'm thinking of you.

Gently whispered endearments while on the phone

Invisible yet smiles strongly felt send a chill.

Reflections to you of all my heart's warmth

Yours in return, fan flames that engulf me.

No matter the task, no matter the chores

Our joint happiness ever leaps in my soul.

THE BLUE-EYED DOG

 

Bounding in circles searching for meaningful work

Ice blue eyes gazed to ask if her master had need

Cavorting with butterflies, chasing birds that chirp

Up and back again, she pulls on her long lead.

Energy embodied in this action figure, carefully bred

For protecting the woolies that wander witlessly about

A job in her heart kept her weaving; they needed to be led

Alive, attentive, ready to fly, around, between, and out. 

Her master scarcely understood the storm a-brewing

Deep down, a knowing stirred inside from long ago

In wanton exertion, constant motion forged a-doing

If only she could please her human, running to and fro.

No sheep in sight, nor cattle or goats, so on with the chase

Up hill, down, acknowledged by a grin from a proud master

Fierce love for laborious sport sent her brave heart to race

Then, bouncing up into open arms, her heart beat the faster.

     

     This is my grand-dog, Clover. She had blue eyes when she was a wee pup, but now her eyes are more hazel. She is an active Australian Cattle Dog. 

     We got a taste of how she loved to romp and play while visiting and dog-sitting while my daughter worked as the floor manager at Catalooche Ranch Resort's excellent restaurant, located in Maggie Valley, NC.

EYES ON ME

 

     Our round dining table overlooks our xeriscaped yard. If you come for tea or coffee, or a bite to eat, you will need to move my binoculars from the placemat, as well as two bird books on the chair closest to me. One is for searching out info on birds, and the other I bought for recording my bird sightings.

     Last year, for Mom's birthday, I bought her a bird feeder. We visited another older friend of mine a few weeks before, and as we sat and chatted on her front patio, we enjoyed watching the many birds who visited her bird feeders. So, this is how our curiosity began. What birds were actually all around us?

     I soon found out about a couple of bird apps, Audubon's bird app for recording my finds online that would add to their global database, and Merlin ID. Merlin ID is awesome because it identifies birds in my vicinity, wherever I happen to be, and when I start recording, the photo and name of the birds it identifies appear, based on their calls and songs.

     The majority of the birds that come around are lesser goldfinches, cardinals, white-winged doves, and sparrows; always, many sparrows come a-calling.

     I was in meditation mode as I sipped my mid-morning coffee. My birds now have their fill to eat since I refill their feeders once a week. 

     I watched them flit about, carefree. What a life! They do not concern themselves with yesterday or tomorrow. They just relish today and sing hallelujahs in the treetops, grateful for the moment they are in.

     There is a lot to be learned here, I realize. Too often, my thoughts are cluttered with global events, headlines intended to provoke me into reading and checking in on their pages. They collect money from all of these clicks, while I may only feel heightened anxiety from the violence and hatred portrayed. 

     Not to say that we should be recluses who don't participate in shaping our culture, but most of the time, the vital aspects of life can slip quietly past us if we don't take note.

     Beauty all around, relationships, times for deep thought, and others for expressing what's on our minds to those who care enough to listen and truly know who we are. At other times, we can bask in the loveliness of solitude.

     In Matthew 10:29, Jesus taught, "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father's care." 

     How much more are my Heavenly Father's eyes on me? Watching and enjoying my daily comings and goings. Not looking to find fault, but rather delighting in my observations, thoughts, daily chores, interactions, and creativity. My Father delights in me and notices even the tiny things that no one else sees.

     When I was in my twenties, with three small children to care for daily, I found myself wondering what my life's purpose and meaning were all about as I repeatedly performed tasks like cleaning, bathing the tots, dressing them, changing diapers, planning meals, and executing them. I wondered what all my education had been for up to this point, with so many menial tasks to attend to.

     I found my joy in watching and interacting with these dear little ones that God gifted me with. Never a dull moment, and I never knew what questions or responses I would hear from these cherubs of mine. 

     Then, I had a revelation. If only God saw what I did and how well I attended to all in my domain, then that would be enough. I would live my life to please God. If no one else noticed what I did all day to provide for my little tribe, then God's wink of approval was all that I needed.

     I began to appreciate the quiet solitude of naptime. I prepped for supper first, then I played and sang hymns on the piano. I took the time to read and meditate before taking a short catnap until the first little one woke. 

     Then the fun would begin after snacks as we went outside to play or to take a walk down our country road.

     I want to get back to this space in my life where I breathe in life. I wish my days away when I could stop and appreciate all that is here for me in this moment. After all, He never took His eyes off of me. I am the apple of His eye. I will delight and be glad...grateful for each precious experience that crosses my path. Eyes on me are smiling.

     

     

     

     

     

POWERLESS OR POWERFUL?

 

     When I hear that soft rumble in the distance with gray clouds closing in, I just know that a storm is brewing without anyone saying a word.

     When in conversation, I notice a crease in the listener's forehead, and when one eyebrow goes up, I recognize a reaction; it's time to ask just what they are thinking.

     When I reach out to someone who does not respond in a timely manner, I wait and try again. If they ghost me for days, I understand that they are pushing away from the relationship, and it is not as dear to them as it is to me. I can inquire for clarification, but I already sense that these attempts could be a waste of time.

     There is ready access to information about numerous global events on a daily basis. It is disheartening to witness the death, violence, and uncontrollable rage displayed. The culture's moral decline is evident in the behavior of leaders, judges, teachers, professors, the entertainment industry, movies, and even the clergy.

     The level of negative energy and violence perpetrated on innocent people demands more than just a sigh or words that express regret and dismay.

     What is my role as a Christian in all of this? Do I just wring my hands and complain to anyone who will listen? I am only one person and not a huge influencer, so am I helpless to affect this onslaught?

     I have some good news for you! The opposite is true. You are a significant influencer because you have a direct line to the Creator of the Universe. Prayer is one way to contribute to changing the world's challenging situations today. Here is one definition wrapped in an acronym. Prayer is...

P= a POWERFUL

R=RESOURCE

A=ALLOCATED

Y=to YOU

E=to EXERCISE

R=for REFORM

     Prayer, we find that this is one thing the disciples asked Jesus to teach them about. They noted how Jesus went off alone daily to spend time with God, and they saw the fruit of his life. A life full of love, compassion, tremendous teachings on the kingdom of God, and daily demonstrations of power through the many miracles they witnessed.

Zechariah 4:6 ASV...'Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit,' says the Lord Almighty.

     To pray is an action verb. It is a powerful tool in the Kingdom of God, to be used for God's glory, for His purposes, to improve the earth. Jesus used it daily to connect with God the Father for inspiration, direction, strength, and power. King Solomon wrote:

Proverbs 18:21 AMP

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it and indulge it will eat its fruit and bear the consequences of their words.

     Matthew quotes Jesus teaching that the condition of hearts will be judged by the words spoken:

Matthew 12:37 NIV

By your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.

     What I speak and pray aloud is a form of documentation that affects the universe, as well as a reflection of my beliefs.

     The media, Internet, books I read or listen to, and the voices around me daily leave an effect. Yet, I also affect the atmosphere, world events, and others around me when I speak or react. 

     Stop and ask yourself, "What am I speaking?" I challenge you. Do you speak words of faith to God about these things and then declare out loud solutions and truths to set good things in motion to combat the evil? Or do you passively stand by as an observer, giving commentary without participating in creating a better world?

     This is where the rubber meets the road. Do you believe that God is mighty to intervene? Do you take the cue to pray the Word into these situations? Or do you sit and wring your hands in frustration at the breaking news?

     I have to admit that my first reaction is not always one of power, but more of the whiny baby. Some days it feels like evil is just moving in an intense wave, which, unchecked, can discourage and weaken me.

     How can I stay in tune so that my words will be beneficial? Every day demands preparation. I can not anticipate everything that might confront me, so it is essential to begin the day by reading the Bible. Be grounded in sanity, truth, and wisdom; this power can only come from God, our Creator.

     James Hudson Taylor was a British Protestant Christian missionary who spent fifty-four years in China, founding the China Inland Mission, which brought over 800 missionaries to this country. Because of his powerful ministry, I respect and paid close attention when I heard his quote: 

"Do not have your concert first, and then tune your instrument afterwards. Begin the day with the Word of God and prayer, and get first of all into Harmony with Him."

     Begin by connecting with the Source. Prepare mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually for the day. A light bulb that is disconnected from electricity has all the components within to radiate and bring light into a room, but until it is screwed it into a socket and the light switch turned on, it does not function as it was designed. 

     You and I were also created by design, and to achieve maximum benefits, understanding the Bible and what it teaches us about what is normal in the Kingdom of God is imperative for overcoming a mindset influenced by a culture that has lost its spiritual moorings.

      You and I were made to be more than just a person drifting through life, adapting to whatever is thrown at us, a reactor only. We were meant to create and to care for this earth and its inhabitants, just as our Father God, the Creator.

     Jesus responded and taught the disciples when they asked him how to pray. The key focus is mentioned in verse ten. Our goal for living and the choices we make are this:

Matthew 6:10 NIV (Jesus's words here referring to his Father) "your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven."

     Herein is the power. Spend time getting to know about the kingdom by reading the Bible. Meditate on it, ask questions, and listen to God. This is how to learn about God's true plan for creation and the authority he has given to men and women here to follow through to see earth transformed.  

     When we unselfishly petition God out of humility for the betterment of our world, people, and circumstances, and it lines up with what God knows is best, then he hears and will answer one way or another. Sometimes quickly, other times in his own time, so that all things that need to be ordered may be done. Sometimes the answer is no. Either way, trust God's all-knowing, all-seeing, and all-loving answers.

     When there is a stirring within, a sense of urgency to do something, this is the time to be reminded: be still, listen, and press in. Then, declare what god is saying to you about this request. 

     In this way, you are powerful, helpful, and with an obedient voice calling out, the atmosphere will be stirred up for change.

 

 

     

Sheepish Sheepdogs

      

     The most famous herding dog in my childhood was Lassie from the TV series. Although many different dogs were trained to work in the filming of this show, the beauty and intelligence of the star were its trademarks. However, in tight situations, she was loyal and vigilant in protecting the young boy,  Timmy, the dog's constant companion. Episode after episode, you just knew that Lassie would defend Timmy, rescue him, or, if needed, run and get the help of his mother and father.

     As believers, especially pastors, we are to defend, protect, and provide leadership to those in the faith who are young and inexperienced. We lead by example, living in integrity that aligns with God's standards, offering encouragement, understanding, listening, keeping confidences, praying, teaching biblical principles, practicing forgiveness, and showing compassion. 

     Today, I heard my pastor say that wherever we work and in whatever we do throughout our lives, these people are divine appointments, and this sphere of influence is our ministry and purpose in life.

     I have found that to be true. No matter where I have been or how dire my circumstances, there were always others in my path who, needed encouragement, prayer, and a listening ear. My life counted even when my chips were down. God has been steadfast and faithful to me, and he is my example. I am to live this same way, with God's wisdom and strength, to be there for others.

     It saddens me to see people in authority, whether in government, school systems, or as parents and employers, who influence large groups, or religious leaders who should impart wisdom based on God's teachings to guide people's spiritual journeys, who have strayed from their calling. Drowning in mixed messages that the culture sends out, many have lost sight of caring for the well-being of both people's bodies, souls, and spirits.

     For a multitude of people, gone are the days of relying on these figures to make good choices for our children, to respect the privacy rights of public and private individuals, to protect and defend women, and sadly, a lack of respect for the preborn and the elderly.

     When I hear about government leaders who vote in a block to prevent beneficial changes to save low income earners and the elderly from paying tax money that needs to go to groceries or transportation and house taxes on a home already paid for, it makes me think that many leaders have lost touch with the reality of the world that millions of Americans live in. 

     These sheepish sheepdogs, who should be guarding, vigilant, and making choices to improve the lives of their constituents, are lending an ear to dangerous parties that sway with the almighty dollar. Or it is simply that living comfortably in luxury, with no scarcity of provisions for insurance, medical care, food, housing, clothing, and transportation, their comfortable lifestyle has left them out of touch with the majority. Some are even seeking ways to increase their already plentiful funds by any means necessary.

     Judgment, as our president stated this week in the Middle East, is left to God on many levels; however, some will feel the consequences of their actions in their lifetime as well. 

     God has begun by unveiling the wickedness and advantage taken by leaders in religious institutions all over the earth. Next will be the government, universities, public schools, sports, food, and pharmaceutical industries, as well as the media and entertainment industry, which will be challenged to change or face the firm hand of consequence.

     The masses are cringing at taxation that robs them of most of their annual income. Slaves are what most feel like. We have been lulled, like the frog in the pan of water that is slowly heated. Getting used to this treatment, with children growing up in this culture, they do not want to change anything because they cannot imagine anything better. Working for change is hard work. 

     It takes all of us who see what is needed to speak up and demand change. It takes a multitude, not just a few wealthy individuals, who are willing to forgo pay to help improve the running of our government and uncover fraud, to truly serve and pave the way for the next generation to have an inviting world in which to live up to their full potential. Life is to be lived with freedom, integrity, and moral safety, ensuring that all basic needs are met. 

     Sheepdogs, yes, you; it is time to get off your couches. It is time to stand up and be counted. It is time to reconnect and work according to the divine plans of the Creator for us all.  

     Just as in the TV series, it was a relief to see Timmy saved as the fearless collie barked and chased a bear away that was threatening to hurt the lad; we can bring relief to a hurting world. I remember how it made me breathe easier when Lassie went for help when Timmy fell off a cliff and onto a narrow ledge, bringing the help needed to save him. 

     This is what is needed today. Fearless, protective, 'sheepdogs' who will stop harmful systems, laws, and crimes, calling them by their proper names. Call a crime a crime, no matter who commits it. No one should be exempt. 

     The final judgement is coming eventually, but why should our children and future generations endure injustice, hatred, danger, shame, and loss of privacy? Consider this and make a difference.

COMPLETE

     

     

     If you have ever seen the movie Groundhog Day, that is how I have felt some days, even though I am in retirement. I get up and put away dishes on the dish rack; I start the coffee maker for my cup of coffee with maple syrup and half and half. Then, after eating and visiting with my husband, I go upstairs to make the bed. With my husband recovering from back surgery, many errands demand trips up and down the stairs since he cannot bend or lift anything more than 5 pounds. Cooking, cleaning up after, taking out the trash, sweeping the porches. Repeat, repeat, repeat. You can fill in the blanks with your routine.
     Finally, I get some time to myself and immediately get into the Bible for some refreshment. I need this for my day. I need this for inspiration in my writing tasks. I love my coffee and two eggs, but when I read the Word of God and stop to meditate on the historical and literal message, then ask God for His message to me, I find meaning in my life amid all the busy activity. I find myself on a higher plane of thinking about everything. The mundane takes on meaning; I am serving my family. When I do it with joy, I am serving myself. Counting it all joy is to live in the song's upbeat. 
     Groundhog Day begins with a man sour on life and on the take from everyone and everything. He is a total narcissist, only living to satisfy himself and the flesh. But as he repeats February 2 time after time, he learns that people are repelled by him. As he alters his actions to become more benevolent and actually listens to learn about others, he finds his life lit up, the repelled ones are coming around, and true companionships are formed.
     By the same token, when we try to live to ourselves, our lives become stale and redundant. There is no spark or reason to wake up the next day living this way. 
     However, the solution is not just to become a pleasant, helpful person involved in others’ lives but to have a relationship with God. When I focus on Him, He reveals Himself to me. He reveals myself to me as well. I see my character and its flaws, but He lets me know He understands me. It is a process, not my imperfections He sees, but my heart toward Him and others as I embrace new knowledge, which is changing me, and I will continue to change until I see God face to face.

I am complete in Him, who is the Head of all principality and power. Colossians 2:10 

     This truth keeps me focused on God. Imagine this: We have the head of all power in the universe wanting to spend time with us. When the treadmill syndrome tries to take over, all I have to do is stop and take a time out. When I do stop, He puts things back in perspective. Peace and joy come flooding in, and I feel whole and alive again—complete in Him.

HOW LONG?

 

     Whirrr, my electric mixer rotated the beaters. The cake was out of the oven and cooled down, so the time had come to mix the ingredients for the frosting. Five birthdays were celebrated this week with two cakes.

     Cream cheese, butter, lime juice, powdered sugar, and a dash of salt were mixed thoroughly in a bowl. Then I added a drop or two of green food coloring for the St. Patrick's Day birthday girl, Naomy, my daughter-in-love.

     The kids all looked my way in anticipation. They had already helped themselves to a chocolate birthday cake for my daughter, Audrey; my son, Jonathan; my grandson, Logan; and myself. So they were curious to see another cake was in the making.

     "Nana, how long until we can have a piece?" asked my 6'2" grandson.

     "Well, we just finished our meal and one cake, so we will wait a while," I replied with a knowing grin.

     None of us likes to wait for a good thing. We cheat a little on Christmas Eve and open one gift each before bed. When making cookies, we taste the batter while we whip it up. But there are good things that are not luxuries like safety, peace, love, enough to eat, and an end to conflicts.

     In Isaiah, a night watchman is asked, "How long until daybreak? How long will this night last?"

     During times of peace, a night watchman monitors the streets after dark, looking out for the safety of the citizens. During wartime, a watchman looks out for the enemy's movements and reports their intel. But this watchman is the voice of the prophet Isaiah, who foretells future events that God has revealed to him.

     In prophecy, morning refers to new beginnings or times of prosperity and peace. Evening and nighttime refer to desperate times, times of bondage, aggression, or times of lack.

     There are times, especially in the last decade, when I have grieved over the state of our nation and events going on around the world. Too many conflicts and human suffering. I have cried out to God, How long will this be permitted? When will good men and women stand up and put a stop to these things? When will our prayers be answered? Who will save those enslaved and wrongfully imprisoned?

     The prophet answered and said, "Morning is coming." We will have times of reprieve, but we will also have more of the night. Just as the people of old have dealt with treachery and bad leaders who cared more about filling their own purses than serving their subjects, we see the same pattern today.

     Nations rise in power, territories change hands, wars ravage cities, and their citizens carry the burden of living in want or leaving as refugees to spare the lives of their families.

     The Morning Star is the One we are looking for. When will this night end? How long until the morning? How long until honor, compassion, respect, prosperity, and safety return to the whole earth?

     It is not enough to see our own nation flourish. I desire to see everyone have the ability to enjoy peace, safety, food, and health with a roof over their heads. When will the earth see civil relationships between neighbors, countries, and their leaders?

     Let go of the greed for power and riches. These two fuel conflict and wars. This fetish to gain control over others without ever considering their welfare causes divisions between families and best friends, which deteriorates into a callousness in human interaction to the detriment of us all.

     Oh God, when will this treadmill end? Will we ever learn that apart from you and your character, we are in a state of decline? Enlightened by technology and knowledge, we know what has gone on in the past and what transpires around the globe, yet we remain ignorant of how far we have fallen spiritually when we are out of touch with God.

     The morning is coming. Refreshings bring us closer to knowing who we are, to being in tune with our Creator, but when we are fat, content, and satisfied, we ride the same roller coaster down again into depravity, too full of ourselves to see where we are headed.

     Earth staggers like a drunk, sways like a shack in a high wind. Its piled-up sins are too much for it. Isaiah 24:20 (MSG). Then, in the next verse, That is when God will call on the carpet rebel powers in the skies and rebel kings on earth. They'll be rounded up like prisoners in a jail, and then sentenced and put to labor.

     How long will these evildoers get away with terrible crimes against humanity? The morning will come when God-of-the-Angel-Armies will take over, ruling from Mount Zion and Jerusalem, Splendid and glorious before all his leaders, says the prophet in Isaiah 24:23 (MSG).

     We must live in reverence of the Lord. First, seek forgiveness and repentance for sins. Confess that Jesus is the Son of God, who came to take away the curse of sin and death on us. 

     Then, listen to the Holy Spirit as he guides daily. Learn about God: read the Bible. God wants to clarify his expectations so we fully understand him and how to live our best lives, flourish, and reach our destiny. The truth found there will teach us the moral laws and commands necessary for human interactions. 

      During our party, my grandchildren wondered, 'How long until the cake is served?' They were ready and expectant for something good and sweet to eat. 

     But each day, I wonder when our Help will come. I look for the coming of the Messiah and God's goodness to end all evil influence. I long to experience the rebirth of God's original design: harmony and beauty. 

     How long? 

     The watchman replied, "Morning is coming, but for now, it is night." 

     Our work is cut out. Remain faithful to God and reach out in love to the world around us. But be encouraged... 

     Morning is coming.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

DRY FEET

 

"You there, you and you, yes you as well, also, you other nine men over there, come back here in the center of the river where the twelve priests stand, and each of you choose a large stone. Carry the stones far up beyond the bank of the river. Let's build a memorial. We need to celebrate our dry feet!"

Earlier, twelve other men, the priests, stood firm, holding the Ark of the Covenant as the multitudes passed by them to cross to the other side of the dry riverbed.

There are many examples of fearless obedience and faith in this account. To begin with, all of the Israelites were told to break camp. They packed up everything, tents, clothing, supplies, and bedding. They fed and washed up their children, then waited expectantly for Joshua's next instructions.

Joshua chose one Levite from each of the twelve tribes and ordered them to carry the Ark and stand in the middle of the Jordan River. Their leader, Joshua, declared that God would open a way for them to cross this river just as He had done with Moses when they crossed the Red Sea.

The priests approached the riverbank; they did not hesitate. When the first sandal-clad foot touched the water, it immediately parted, and the priests carried the Ark on dry land. When they arrived at the mid-point, they halted, looking back at Joshua. They saw him motion and command the multitude to cross to the other side. 

No muddy or wet feet: unbelievable! Thousands crossed while the priests held their positions. These twelve men stood with their backs to the wall of water. They looked confidently toward the dried-up riverbed that extended to the Arabah Sea (a salt sea). The people walked through with dry feet, carrying their belongings as they advanced toward Jericho. 

Who would believe that such a miracle could ever be forgotten? Yet God instructed Joshua to build a memorial of twelve huge stones so that the generations following would ask, "What are these giant stones here for?"

Then, the story would be repeated about how God performed this miracle. I'm thinking of at least three reasons God might have broken the laws of physics, holding back a large river and instantly drying its river bed for a safe crossing.

1. Out of practicality, the people needed to cross the deep river without mishap.

2. God wanted the people to recognize that God's hand was on Joshua as on Moses. With this miracle, God ordained and commissioned Joshua with honor as the chosen man to lead the people after Moses was left behind. God showed his approval, which built the people's trust in his leadership.

3. At the end of the narrative in chapter four of Joshua, verse twenty-four, it states that the memorial of stones commemorated this event so that everybody on the whole earth would know how strong God's rescuing hand was and still is. By retelling this story, the people would always hold God in solemn reverence when asked about the stones.

It is sad to realize how soon the Israelites forgot to honor their  God, who delivered them time after time throughout their history. 

I know that our cultures sweep in with chaos and distractions that cause us to seek peace and comfort while we forget where our help and wisdom can come from. But how many times has God intervened in our lives and saved us from death, being maimed, and total disaster? We will never know all the times we were spared in this life.

Oh, believe me, I have had events in my life, as well as you have, that made me feel like I was doomed. 

"Where, oh where are you, God?"

But then there were times when I look back that I am certain that God stepped in to give me clear direction, an answer to prayer, a divine appointment, or divine coincidence, if you want to call it that. 

I remember bags of freshly butchered beef being brought to my door by a rancher who did not realize we were out of meat. She just saw the kid's faces in her mind and could not be at peace after butchering cattle until she brought us some.

I remember being loaned a small car to drive as a single mom for three years, and I commuted two hours each day to finish my degree. 

I remember my car being repaired and paid for by someone who dared to believe God asked them to. 

Then, God led me to get my hair cut by a young woman moving out of a four-bedroom house close to all the kids' schools. The next thing I knew, I called the landlord and was offered the house to rent when I needed to move out of the church parsonage after the divorce from my husband, who philandered and chose to leave us and his vocation as a minister. My three school-age children could walk to school now, and the rent was only $200 a month .

I remember moments in my second marriage, yes to a believer, being thrown into walls, dragged out on sidewalks in night clothes, being hit, and having heavy objects thrown at me by this abusive spouse, but never having a broken bone. When I was so distressed and wanted to die, God gave me the courage to get out. He took care of me in my depression and healed me.

I remember getting a phone call from my two oldest son's superior officer one day. They were both riding back from a mission, and he called to tell me they both were in a vehicle that flipped. Neither was harmed. But he apologized for sending two of my sons together when I might have lost them both. But God.

I remember getting a message from my oldest son describing how he was dropped off at night by a helicopter in a soccer stadium. He was alone and an easy target for the enemy since the soldiers did not arrive for hours who were supposed to transport him to the base in Afghanistan. 

I remember his second tour when he sent me a message that his base's exterior was breached by the Taliban in the middle of the night. Fighting broke out around his quarters, but God and the Marines protected him that night.

I remember my youngest son telling me on a Wednesday night that when he went snorkeling with his dad, his flipper got hung up on rebar in the cement that reinforces the bank in this one part of the San Marcos River near the university. He could not swim to the river's surface to get air, and he could not get his foot out of the flipper. It was twisted too tight. Thinking that he was going to drown, he told God he was ready to go to heaven. Suddenly, his lungs filled with air, and his foot miraculously came loose from the flipper without him struggling at all to free it. He surfaced, and a nearby student dove to him to retrieve his flipper. He believed it was a miracle. I agreed.

I remember receiving a call from my youngest daughter. She was about to be transferred to a hospital. She was crying and explained that she was driving north on I-25 in Colorado. It was late at night when a car entering the freeway broadsided her, sending her Pop Fiat flipping over three times across the median and landing facing the opposing traffic. 

It was dark and winter. (This photo was taken at the salvage yard.) The other driver did not stop to help her. A stranger stopped and parked his car, and his lights shone on her car so no one would run into her. He managed to pull her out and cover her up until the ambulance and police arrived. She might have suffered more if she had not been kept warm. As it was, she only had a few scratches and some compression to her spine that was helped by therapy. To this mama, a miracle!!

Each of my six children has either had their life spared or had a remarkable recovery from terrible circumstances.

These and many more are only a few examples of God's goodness and mercy in my life. I am grateful for all. 

Have I made a pile of stones to commemorate these? Have I even stopped to write a list or to tell these stories before today, say, at a time like Thanksgiving, to recount in front of others? Have I written a book to honor God and to show my gratitude to God for all of the great things He has done in my life?

How about you? Do you tell your stories to your children so they can share them with their children and future generations? We must thank God and hold Him in solemn reverence and awe, just as Joshua planned that memorial long ago.

This passage in Joshua chapters three and four about dry feet reminds me that this story needs to be repeated. This is not a fable, fairy tale, or a myth. This is history. This is remarkable and unbelievable, but that is who our God is. He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Forever. God does not change.

Just as the priests in the middle of that river crossing stood on the dry ground with a wall of water behind them, stood bravely believing in Jehovah to keep them safe, in like manner, we must boldly stand in faith when we are faced with impossible obstacles before us, behind us, around us and above us for we are not alone. We can trust in God to never leave us or forsake us.

After God walks us through to the other side of our troubles, mark the victory. Rejoice that He came into our space and time to aid us. Testify. Tell everyone you meet about the goodness of God in your life. Let the whole world know about your life experiences with God and tell the other stories of God's provisions, like the story of DRY FEET.

*The drawing above correctly depicts the priests standing in the middle while the Israelites crossed the Jordan River. It is the closest rendition that I could find to portray this miracle. Many others pictured only four priests carrying the Ark. This is also faulty since it does not show the Jordan dried up to the salt sea. Still, you know the facts now and can overlook this. Remember the extraordinary miracle of dry feet, recall some pretty incredible saves in your life, and remember to give thanks and honor God by remembering Him in reverence.

It would be great if you would comment below and leave an account of a time when God showed up when you needed Him.