Flowers and a Tote Bag

For the past three weeks I’ve had several situations in my everyday life that I considered ordinary needs. However, what took place were truly unexpected surprises from my Heavenly Father. Let me explain.

              Ever since I can remember, Memorial Day has always been a special holiday for my family. Many family members on both my dad’s and mom’s sides are buried in the WaKeeney cemetery. As a child, I can remember my mom and my Grandma Phares preparing their glass jar peony bouquets to place on the gravesites on Memorial Day. Then, our family would usually have a reunion of sorts, gather for a picnic or go to Cedar Bluff Lake after the special ceremony at the cemetery.  The day was such a fun, family gathering.

              Now, since that generation of my family is gone, I have taken it upon myself to place flowers on my family’s gravesites because my mom was concerned that no one would be around to put flowers on the graves. I told her as long as I was able, I would become the flower lady. Of course, the number of deceased family members has increased throughout the years which make “live” flowers almost impossible to place on the sites, especially since I no longer live in WaKeeney.  Consequently, I have resorted to artificial arrangements of some kind.  Now this is where the surprise comes in. 😊

              This year due to many life obligations, I had delayed buying the flowers. Time was running out for finding flowers, but I still wanted to look, at least for my parents and grandparents. So about a week before Memorial Day, I checked at the Dollar General store in a nearby town. As I walked into the store, I immediately noticed a group of flowers in one of the aisles. My heart filled with joy. I bought as many as I could afford at that time.  When I checked out, I told the clerk how happy I was that they had flowers. She said they had just received them and had displayed them that morning. I had the pick of the lot.  Awesome!!

However, sorting through those simple flowers a few days before Memorial Day, I discovered I didn’t have enough for what I needed. So, I made a flash dash to DG Saturday morning and lo and behold, they had just restocked flowers the day before!!    I was able to purchase the remaining flowers I needed and even a few extra.

              Second surprise: It was time for our Granddaughter Katharine’s yearly dance recital, and it’s become one of my traditions to give her a bag filled with candy treats instead of a bouquet of flowers after her performance. However, this year her birthday happened to fall a few days after the recital so I decided to give both her birthday presents and her recital treat together. But then, I needed a tote large enough for both gifts (more convenient for carrying).  I checked the totes I had on hand, but none were the right size so I had resolved to do without. However, when the mail arrived the morning of the recital, I received a large envelope from one of the mission groups I occasionally donate to. Inside were three, colorfully designed totes. I couldn’t help but smile, especially when one was the perfect size for Katharine’s gifts.

              As I reflect on those two, non-dramatic incidents, I don’t remember ever praying specifically about them. But I was doing a lot of hopeful wishing. 😊 Nevertheless, I know in my heart, my mind, and my soul that those results were not coincidences. God knew my desires even before I did, and He fulfilled my unspoken requests. Why? Because He loves His children and delights in surprising them.   

 

“Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.”

 Psalm 37:4

 

“The LORD your God in your midst, the Mighty One, will save;

He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love,

He will rejoice over you with singing.” Zephaniah 3:17

Obstacles

    Several  years ago I began watching the American Ninja Warrior TV show.  The purpose behind the show is for athletes, both men and women, to complete several stages of obstacles in order to reach the final stage where they could win a million dollars. It's a challenging endeavor that requires strength, endurance, strategy, and to a certain extent, speed.    

    As I observe each warrior, I notice that each seems to have his/her own plan of action. Some approach each obstacle quickly and confidently, relying on their own skills and abilities to master the course. However, if they press on too fast, many times they stumble, miss the obstacle or lose their strength before completion of the course. Others approach the course more cautiously, taking and studying one obstacle at a time. Although speed in completing the course is important, these warriors tend to concentrate only on being able to finish the course. 

    After watching these warriors and their strategies, I began to ponder my spiritual strategies. As I encounter my own personal obstacle course, I find if I rush ahead in my own self-sufficiency, I fall like some of the Ninjas. But if I stop, consider my choices and most of all, contact my Heavenly Father Coach (because I know I can't finish the course without His help), mastering one obstacle at a time is possible. 

    What obstacles are challenging you? Take them to my Coach. He's available to everyone!!

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or troubled. The LORD your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9  

My Pathway to Publication

             When I was involved with Awana, a Bible-based ministry for youth ages 2-18, I became a leader of third and fourth grade girls. As their leader, I assisted in helping them understand the meaning of various Bible verses as well as memorizing them. In fact, the girls were better than I with memorization.   However, one of the many Bible verses that were included in the memorization process was Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths.” (NKJV) At the time, the verse was merely another for the girls to learn, but as I memorized it too, its meaning became my password to life.

               Throughout the years I have leaned on this verse repeatedly as each stage of my life has brought challenges too heavy for me to handle alone. Consequently, the words in these verses remind me to trust God, to be aware of His Presence in my life, and to keep alert to His leading no matter the outcome or the time frame. Yes, the time frame because I don’t always wait on Him.  In the following account, I want to share how God had directed my path concerning a dream which had been planted in my heart 60 years ago.

               After I had accepted Jesus as my personal Savior in 1961, I dreamed of publishing a book as a way to serve Him. Actually, my love for books began at an early age. Our mother read Bible stories to my old brother and me, usually before bedtime. As she read, visions of the people and their lives filled my little mind. Sometimes my imagination would take me into those stories, and I would dream of being a part of them. Perhaps that’s when, unaware at that time, my desire to write stories began.

               My teenage years brought me a mix of adventures with new friends, with deeper relationships, with higher education goals, and with more insights to life. However, despite these various experiences, my writing desires remained; actually, they grew because I had more to write about. However, my literary genres changed. From writing movie scripts and poetry in high school, in college I focused on non-fiction, personal essays, research papers, mainly because of my English major. I did continue writing poetry and submitted several of my poems to one of the literature professors on campus. He gave me an encouraging review. I also took a journalism class where I enjoyed writing feature stories and editorials, new formats for me. When I graduated from college and began my teaching career, I soon found composing lesson plans and tests took most of my writing endeavors. Consequently, my dream of publishing a book momentarily ended, but life as a married woman began.

               It was not until 1974 when I was pregnant with our first child that my dream resurfaced. Since I was no longer teaching, I had time to write again.  However, this time I concentrated on children’s stories for magazines as well as picture book manuscripts. I took a correspondence writing class designed for children authors and successfully completed it. Along with my dream to publish, my desire to serve Jesus through my writing also remained. I started to write Christian-centered stories as well as Bible-related story themes. One of my manuscripts entitled, Only a Small Pot of Oil, was one of two chosen for a children’s book from Concordia Publishing, but mine wasn’t the final selection. I was disappointed and thought of giving up since I had received LOTS of rejection forms before this one.

               As years passed, God led me along different paths, including being a stay at home Mom of four for 22 years, an English outreach instructor for 26 years, and director of an outreach site for a community college for 11 years. While all these various occupations took time away from my dream of publishing, I could not dismiss my desire. Consequently, whenever free moments occurred, I took advantage and with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, I began to write short stories about my childhood. Then, in the summer of 2010 when my job with the community college ended abruptly, I found myself wandering, uncertain of my next path. But Alexander Graham Bell’s famous quote, “When one door closes, another opens.”, reminded me to trust God once again. And in the fall of 2010, only a few months after losing my job, God led me to attend a Christian Simulcast presented by Beth Moore, who is an Anglican evangelist, author and Bible teacher. During her presentation I heard a small voice within my soul whisper, “Pick up the pen and write.” When I heard it again, I was awestricken…my heart pounded and a blanket of warmth covered me. Tears blurred my eyes. God had revealed my path.

               After that amazing encounter, I began to write spiritual pieces about how Jesus had been active in my life through simple, everyday happenings. In 2014 with the assistance of my son and his wife, I was able to begin a blog, “Spiritual Simplicities in Everyday Life.”  Even though I had been directed along this new path, I continued to feel incomplete in my writing endeavors. That was when I realized I had overlooked my childhood short stories. The ideas for those stories had come so easily for me as I remembered events that drew me in as a child. Writing them brought me joy. I knew, then, I must pursue to finish them and organize a collection.

               As I now reflect upon writing these short stories, I can clearly see God’s leading through the Holy Spirit. Whenever I was stuck on the story line or the right words would escape me, the Holy Spirit would intercede. He opened doors to willing people to edit my story collection and with their encouragement to seek publication. From previous experiences with publishing, I decided to search online for possibilities. The market for short story collections didn’t offer many choices, but I began to inquire with what was available. However, I quickly realized that my subject matter wasn’t suitable for many publishing houses. I became discouraged and once again put my manuscript aside for several years.

               It wasn’t until 2021 when a dear friend of mine, whom God had placed in my life in 2008, kept encouraging me to seek publication. She had read my blog posts and a few of my stories and as a result, strongly suggested I continue my search. In fact, her husband was a published author whose manuscripts had been published by Wick House Publishing. With both of their support and connections, I took the plunge of faith, trusted God with whatever the outcome would be, and sent my manuscript to Wick House Publishing. Within a few months, my manuscript had been accepted. My dream of becoming a published author to serve Jesus had come true in 2021, 60 years from when the dream had begun. I truly believe in a statement I read from a devotional: “When God gives you a dream, He gives you all that’s needed to fulfill it.” My dream was accomplished only by the underlying work of the Holy Spirit and trusting in God’s direction on the path He was leading me, no matter the span of time! To God be the glory!!

 

“Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart.”  Psalm 37:4

 

 

 

 

 

                             

              

              

Riding Shotgun

 

            While I was staying with my grandchildren one weekend, I was reminded of the expression, “Riding Shotgun”. This term has an Old West history since stagecoach lines hired two men to ride atop the coaches. One drove the horses while the other sitting beside him rode as shotgun, keeping an eye out for bandits and even Indians. It was a very important job.

            So when I picked up the grandkids from school on a Friday afternoon, there was a rush to ride shotgun, which today means to ride in the front passenger seat of a vehicle. I had to chuckle as my two grandsons desired the spot, while my granddaughter climbed into the backseat without an argument. As it turned out, the oldest grandson won (this time)! So on the return trip to their house, I asked Jonathan to be on alert for traffic and for his assistance in directing me to their home.   

            Later, as I reflected on that incident, I thought of all the times I had wanted to ride shotgun when I was a kid. Riding in the front seat made me feel more grown-up and closer to the driver. I also remember being able to see outside better, especially looking out the wide, front windshield. Of course, there were several times when one or the other of my parents told me to sit back so they could see from my side. I actually wasn’t being a reliable shotgun rider. J But mostly, I enjoyed it because when I was riding shotgun, it meant I was alone with either my mom or dad. Total attention!!

            Now, since I no longer have children or grandchildren living close by, I don’t have a shotgun rider. However, as I thought about this concept, there have been many times while driving by myself that I could have been in traffic accidents, but they were either avoided or no serious harm occurred. In those instances, I have thanked Jesus, both silently and vocally, for His protection. Could it be that I did and do have a shotgun rider with total attention after all?

 

“The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer;

My God, my strength, in whom I will trust;

My shield and the horn of my salvation,

My stronghold.” Psalm 18:2

 

 

           

Lighthouses

            I’m a lighthouse collector. I’m not sure when I became fascinated with lighthouses, but maybe it began after watching Walt Disney’s first Pete’s Dragon movie. I enjoyed how Nora (Helen Reddy) and her dad (Mickey Rooney) took full ownership of their lighthouse, painting the outside, maintaining the light that signaled incoming sea vessels. And of course, I can’t exclude Pete and Elliott, the charming, loveable dragon, who saved the day. Yep, it was a fun, entertaining movie. In a nostalgic way, the lighthouse brought them all together as family.

            Perhaps family is a part of my attraction for lighthouses. As I recall, the first lighthouse I owned was a night light that served as a comfort in our children’s bedroom. From there my interest grew as I began to find them at Hobby Lobby. But the most fun of shopping for lighthouses occurred when my youngest daughter and I visited antique stores. That’s when my collective addiction took off. J By then, other family members as well as a few close friends knew I was searching for lighthouses to add to my growing collection.  Consequently, I began receiving them as gifts. And not only lighthouse statues and figurines, but magnets, photographs, calendars, wind chime, throw blanket, cloth bags, and even a special lighthouse artwork made from my Mom’s clip-on earrings after she had passed away.  But, I never seriously thought about my collection until one of my granddaughters asked me why.

            As I reflected on my granddaughter’s question, I was drawn to one of my lighthouse pictures. A lighthouse stands firmly high upon a rock while rushing waves slap viciously around it. However, behind the lighthouse the reaching arms of Jesus with His hands open wide seem to embrace the lighthouse with a protective covering. Then, it struck me. Just as the lighthouse gives off light to direct, protect, and lead safe passage to ships at sea so does Jesus provide to all who believe in Him a safe and secure passage to eternal life. Certainly, the path isn’t without its turbulence and pain, but the light remains shining, giving hope for both the ship and the believer.   

            Then, another thought came to mind. Who maintains the lighthouse? Who makes certain the light is lit and remains lit?  Answer: the Lighthouse Keeper !! Jesus provides the safe passage but to keep the flame going, God has provided a helper, the Holy Spirit, to maintain our course and keep us directed to our eternal home.  So, to answer my granddaughter’s question…my lighthouses remind me of Jesus and the light that shines within me.

 

“I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life. “ John 8:12

 

“And I pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever.” John 14:16

 

Change

                One of my cousins once said to me that she enjoyed visiting my parents because when she walked into their house, it was the same as she remembered from staying with them during her senior year in high school. The furniture and its arrangement, the curtains, the carpet, and the essential items in each room never changed.  She felt secure and comfortable and always at home.

               As I reflected on her comment, I found myself in total agreement with her. Perhaps that was why I always looked forward to going “home” for our family visits.  I, too, felt secure and comfortable. I didn’t have to experience change.

               BUT, change does occur, and at no time in my lifetime is change more apparent than now with the invasion of the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic. Currently, former daily routines no longer exist. A new normal is developing. One that I don’t particularly like.  However, from this unexpected situation I have learned not to take my so called ordinary, basic lifestyle for granted like I have in the past.  You know, simple things, like buying groceries, getting a haircut, chatting with a neighbor, visiting our children and grandchildren and watching their various activities, attending church, dining in restaurants. So maybe, just maybe this unforeseen and dangerous virus has caused me to appreciate my customary, simple life in a way I haven’t before.

               I am confident that Covid-19 will eventually subside, but its effect will bring change in many areas of our lives. Change can be difficult, especially in those areas that make one feel safe and protected.  But then, change can be good, too. One’s attitude toward change contributes to that viewpoint. For myself, I need to regain my positive perspective and try to adapt to the possibilities of new opportunities once we are able to return to some normalcy.

               However, through all of life’s ups and downs, there remains one source of stability that never changes, God, our Heavenly Father. Through His word in the Scriptures and through personal experiences, I know I can depend on Him. During my life’s journey, I have faced rejection, heartbreaks, inappropriate sexual advances, unexpected health issues, loss of job, separation of family and friends, and the loss of many loved ones to death. All brought changes in my life, physically, socially, and mentally, BUT through them all God didn’t change. He remained constant by my side. He was there in His Spirit, comforting me, forgiving me, and loving me. AND He is with me (us) now. 

               Today, I can no longer find security and comfort at my parents’ home because they are no longer here. However, I CAN find security and comfort in my Father’s arms because He is always here. GOD does not change.

“For I am the LORD, I do not change” Malachi 3:6

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” Hebrews 13:8

Two Figurines

Lately, I’ve been reading an assortment of articles and devotional pieces about kindness. This strikes me personally because several months ago I felt the Spirit nudging me to write a blog piece on kindness.  I actually began my article but due to several, unexpected family interruptions, I placed it in my writing backpack and left it there. But, it’s now time to retrieve it and finish it.

                I cannot begin to number all the acts of kindness that have been shown to me throughout my life.  From family, friends, church families, colleagues, medical professionals, policemen and even total strangers, I have received countless blessings of kindness. But one particular act of kindness that stands forever in my mind happened to me when I was 10 years old.

               It was July and I had only been home from the hospital a few days after an emergency appendectomy when one of my neighborhood friends shyly entered my bedroom.  Patsy, younger than I, lived with her family in a small house to the northeast of ours.  I became acquainted with her simply because she was our neighbor and because she could play baseball!! J

               However, the more I was around Patsy, I could tell she had a lot of family responsibilities, even though she was only a kid.  She couldn’t always hang out with the rest our neighborhood gang because she had house chores plus she had to take care of her younger siblings whenever her parents were gone. And that seemed to be regularly.  Neighborhood gossip marked her family as drifters, not staying in one town very long as well as being poor folk who took advantage of people.  Of course, being a youngster, I didn’t quite fully understand those remarks nor did I care because to me Patsy was my friend, not necessarily her parents.

               As she approached my bed, where I was reading a comic book while I rested, she said she heard that I had an operation and how sorry she was.  I thanked her and motioned for her to sit on my bed.  She hesitated but then replied that she couldn’t stay long. However, she wanted to give me a “get well” gift. She further commented that it wasn’t much. In fact, I might not like it.  Then, she carefully handed me two dainty, porcelain doll figurines and apologized for not having any wrapping paper.

               When I received her unexpected gift, an indescribable warmth of affection passed through me. Her show of thoughtfulness and kindness momentarily left me speechless. In fact, before I could even thank her, Patsy quickly left.  I looked at the two rosy-cheeked girls, each singing. One held a song book and the other an accordion. For a ten year old tomboy, I thought they were the prettiest figurines I had ever seen. Strange as it may be, shortly after Patsy’s visit, her family moved. I never saw her again.  BUT to this day, the two little figurines sit upon my dresser as a reminder of a long ago friend who gave me the greatest gift of all, her kindness.       

               There’s someone else who has shown me kindness throughout my life.  I first met him when I was a child, and he’s been by my side ever since, although at times I have pushed him away. Nevertheless, he remains more loving and caring than I deserve. His name is Jesus.

“And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God in Christ also forgave you.”  Ephesians 4:32

iPhone

            Recently, I became an owner of an iPhone.  I have fought upgrading phones for a long time.  My old phone, what I referred to as my “dumb” phone, worked just fine.  It wasn’t a flip phone, just a small cell phone with a sliding keyboard which I loved. J  It was easy to operate, not technical for my slow-working mind, and it felt comfortable to me. However, there were downsides to it, too.

            For one, people sent me messages that I weren't able to read because my phone wouldn’t recognize the emojis.  Consequently, I missed out on some news and pictures. Another negative to my “dumb” phone was its screen size.  I admit my eyes were strained at times. J  But now, with this new phone, I receive all my messages, emojis, and pictures/videos without any problem.  I know the iPhone will be a great tool; I just need to figure out how to use and take advantage of all its features. 

            Now, as I was debating about this phone upgrade, another thought crossed my mind.  Perhaps I need to upgrade my spiritual walk as well.  Too many times I find myself taking my relationship with God, my Heavenly Father, not seriously enough.  I know He is with me no matter where I am or what I am doing, but I often fail to appreciate His activity in my life.  Even during my quiet, meditative times with Him, I am confronted with distractions. My thoughts are easily interrupted by outside influences (text messages, phone calls, gazing out a window, etc.) So how can I upgrade my spiritual journey?

            First and foremost, pray! I need to ask God to forgive my ingratitude and inconsistency and then ask Him to assist me with my upgrade. Then, I need to listen intently to His suggestions as the Holy Spirit reveals them to me.  Next, I need to keep reading His Word by selecting a passage, then pay attention to how it applies to me and my life.  I also need to keep reading devotionals/books that speak the truth of God’s Word.  Finally, I need to communicate with fellow believers and share my faith.  Those are my personal steps to upgrading my spiritual walk.  I only hope I can accomplish them at a faster rate than it’s taking me in learning how to operate my iPhone.

“You therefore, beloved, since you know these things beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked; but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.” 2 Peter 3: 17-18

Hanging Out

            “Lingering with those we love, particularly Jesus, is essential to healthy living.  Far from causing us to lose our grip on everything else, taking time out with Him makes us stronger and helps us handle things more clear-minded and wholeheartedly.” Erin Keeley Marshall

            When I read the above words from the devotion book, Mornings with Jesus 2013, I was struck with the revelation that the times I had managed to escape from the pressures of everyday life while I was growing up, raising a family, and even today in my retiring years were not selfish.  They were times I was “lingering with Jesus” or as I like to say now, “hanging out with Jesus.”

            When I was a youngster, I enjoyed playing with my neighborhood friends, but I also liked being by myself.  Countless times I would quietly sit on our front porch with a book or paper and pencil.  My observations were often written in poems or plays.  Other times I would climb my favorite tree or take rest on the top of our house nook (thanks to the TV antennae tower that stood nearby). Those moments alone as a youth refreshed my soul which in those years I didn’t completely understand but now in retrospect, those were the formative years leading to my personal relationship with Jesus.

            In college, I found myself needing periods of solitude.  The challenges of school, sorority, social relationships, and other life-changing issues stacked high, at times daily.  In those moments, I found relief by being alone, but by this time I wanted to be alone with Jesus. I needed His peace.  And I discovered it in a couple of unusual places:  a designated research room on the third floor of the college library and sitting under a big cottonwood behind the sorority house where I lived.  Both provided the quiet and restoration I needed in my communication with Jesus.

            After I was married with a growing family, I continued my quest for alone time with Jesus, which was a challenge.  However, I soon discovered that “waiting” in the car to pick up my kids from school, from various athletic practices, from piano lessons, and from other related activities allowed me some quiet time.  In fact, many times I would arrange to arrive early just so I could sit in peace J  During those moments, Jesus often spoke to me through the Holy Spirit. With my eyes closed, I could sense an inner strengthening of my physical body as well as clarity of my mind.  Granted, those moments didn’t happen every day due to interruptions or other involvements, but when they did occur, they brought me reassurance of His special presence and even an attitude change that I often needed.

            Now, as an empty-nester with what seems like all kinds of quiet time, I find I still need to be alone with Jesus in a special place.  Again, my car serves as that place.  There’s something about sitting in my car beside a park or by a lake that draws me to my Jesus.  I linger and enjoy His presence, “hanging out “ together.

  Now, if by chance you need some quiet time, may I suggest finding a place where you can be alone and “hang out” with the best companion anyone could ask for, our Savior Jesus.   The benefits are worth it!!

           

           

“You, LORD, are my shepherd.  I will never be in need. You let me rest in fields of green grass. You lead me to streams of peaceful water, and you refresh my life. You are true to your name, and you lead me along the right paths.” Psalm 23: 1-3   (Contemporary English Version)

“The LORD your God wins victory after victory and is always with you. He celebrates and sings because of you, and he will refresh your life with his love.”  Zephaniah 3:17 (Contemporary English Version)

Santa's Socks

Christmas Eve was two days away. Santa and his elves were polishing the big, red sleigh beginning with the narrow, strong runners to the wide, circular carriage. It was a big job, but by whistling and singing, the work became fun. By the end of the day, however, Santa was tired and worn. When he entered his cozy, warm cottage at the top of the North Pole, he was greeted with a smile and a hug from his favorite partner, Mrs. Claus.

“My, you and the elves really outdid yourselves today,” she said. “Come, dear, rest for a spell while I fix you a cup of hot chocolate.”

“That sounds wonderful,” he said, giving Mrs. Claus a kiss on her cheek.

After Santa sank into his pillow-lined rocker, he took off his old work boots and noticed a toe or two sticking out of his socks. However, Santa didn’t complain. In fact, to Santa his socks always felt much more comfortable when there was a hole or two.

 When Mrs. Claus returned with his hot chocolate, she found Santa sound asleep. She also noticed Santa’s socks. “Oh dear,” she thought to herself. “Santa mustn’t deliver the Christmas toys with holey socks. There’s still time for me to darn him a new pair.”

She set the cup beside the snoring Santa and hurried to her sewing room.

With the arrival of Christmas Eve, Santa began dressing for his annual world trip. He grabbed his shiny black boots and began to put them on.

“Wait, Santa!” Mrs. Claus exclaimed. “I’ve made you a brand- new pair of woolen socks so your feet won’t get cold as you travel tonight.”

Santa was speechless. How could he refuse such an unexpected gift of thoughtfulness? Little did Mrs. Claus know that Santa preferred to wear his holey, comfy socks over new, itchy ones. But not wanting to disappoint Mrs. Claus, he took off his favorite socks and put on his new, woolen ones.  

           

At the beginning of Santa’s journey, the socks felt good against the cold, night air. However, with the continual stopping, dropping down chimneys, and other places, Santa noticed that his feet were becoming quite warm. In fact, they were HOT! He loosened his bootstraps and aired them out. But with the exposure to the cool, damp air, his feet began to itch. He tried to ignore the itchiness, but it was becoming a nasty distraction.  In fact, his itchy socks were turning jolly Santa into a grumbling grouch.

 Entering a tiny log cabin through a close-fitting window, Santa hobbled to a low-burning fireplace where he found two socks hanging from its mantel. He began putting goodies into the socks, but just as quickly as he filled the socks, the toys and candy fell onto the floor. Taking a closer look at the two socks, he discovered several holes in them.

 Suddenly, Santa had an idea. He found a chair, took off his boots and replaced his socks with the holey ones. He tied his bootstraps and stood straight once again. A smile broke across his face. “Oh, my, what relief,” he sighed.

He placed his new woolen socks filled with Christmas gifts upon the fireplace mantel. He knew that once he explained what he had done with his new socks, Mrs. Claus would understand. Hopefully, the children he left them with would understand too.

  

Homesick

                                                        

                                                         “Sometimes I grow homesick for heaven

                                                                 And the glories I there shall behold;

                                                        What a joy that will be when my Savior I see

                                                                   In that beautiful city of gold!”  - - Anon

               That phrase, “homesick for heaven”, struck me as I realized that at times, I, too, experience a homesickness for Heaven.  After all, Heaven is our eternal/everlasting home.  We are here on earth temporarily; earth is not our permanent home. As written in Hebrews 11:13 – 16, “These [referring to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Sarah] all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For those who say such things declare plainly that they seek a homeland. And truly if they had called to mind that country from which they had come out, they would have had opportunity to return. But now they desire a better, that is, a heavenly country.  Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a city for them. “ 

               As a child I remember being homesick while staying a few days with relatives.  Coming home after a visit felt secure and comfortable because I was in the presence of my mom and dad again, and yes, even my older brother J  Being reunited with my earthly toys also brought me joy.  But now, as a grown-up, I long for that same sense of security, comfort and love that awaits me in Heaven.  Plus, I get to see Jesus face to face first off and then my earthly believing family and friends. But, you know, there’s even more to look forward to in Heaven.

               “Perhaps one of the reasons that we are given eternal life is that we will need an eternity to get to know all of the people to whom we are related by grace.”  Pastor Jon Anderson      Think about it!!  All people who have been saved by grace will be inhabitants of Heaven.  Beginning with Adam and Eve, there are going to be lots and lots of people to visit. Won’t it be amazing to meet the Biblical people…to be able to talk to your favorite ones?  I look forward to meeting Sarah, Queen Esther, Ruth, Deborah, Mary, the mother of Jesus, and other women who lived throughout Bible history.  Of course, the men stand out too: Noah, Abraham, Joseph, Moses, David, the 12 disciples, Paul and Timothy.  So much knowledge to reap from these men and women. 

               But not only will it be exciting to encounter the Biblical people, it will also be grand to run into other historical, Christian men and women as well.  However, the people that I want most to be spending eternity with are my believing family members and all my personal brothers and sisters in Christ.  Separation, loneliness and sadness will be replaced with unity, togetherness and joy!!  Our new home will be beyond description, prepared by Jesus Himself. (John 14:2)  Homesickness will be non-existent because we will finally be home!!!

“For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body, according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself.”  Phil. 3:20-21

Full Circle

The following piece demonstrates the role that prayer played in bringing God’s Word to a Bibleless peoples group.  Never doubt the power of prayer even when years may pass before its results are seen.

At this time I want to thank Misriani Balle for assisting me in writing this post.  Together with the Holy Spirit’s help we created “our” story.

            In 1991 one of our friends who had begun working for Wycliffe Bible Translators spoke at our church.  He told about the Bibleless Peoples Prayer Project which involved praying for missionaries who were trained to be sent to groups of people throughout the world to translate the Bible in their native languages.  I had never given much thought to the fact that many language groups did not have Bibles.  In the United States as well as in other nations, the Bible (often taken for granted) was common in most households, so this new information of a need for Bible translators stirred my heart. I felt it most important for people of all civilizations to have the availability to read God’s Word.   After all, His Word is for everyone!

            When I was in college, I pursued a position of teaching English in a foreign country with hopes of becoming a missionary, but God led me down a different path.  However, the desire to serve God in the mission field never entirely left my soul.  Consequently, when I heard about the Bibleless Peoples Prayer Project, I wanted to learn more.  After further questions and answers from our friend, I felt the Spirit urging me to become a prayer partner.  Prayer partners would be assigned a Bibleless Peoples group, and our part of the program was to pray specifically for translators and their needs.

            Several weeks after I had signed up for the program, I received information to pray for a group in Indonesia.  At the time, this group did not have a translator so I began praying for someone to commit to the task ahead.  My desire for this person or persons grew stronger as I prayed.

            Throughout my faith journey, the Bible has been my life source. Hearing the stories read to me by my mom at home and again at Sunday school was the first step.  When I turned 13, I received my own, white Bible with my name on it. I began reading it for myself. As I read the words, new and fresh insights were revealed.  I felt drawn to its truths and it became a valuable resource for me.  In fact, it was a treasured gift.  Consequently, I wanted this special group of people to have the same opportunity I had had…a Bible to read in their own language so they could know God in a more personal way.

            As time passed, I was kept informed of the progress of this particular group.  I must admit I failed to pray consistently, especially when challenges in my own life surfaced.  BUT God kept me on track by sending reminders and encouraging updates of my Bibleless peoples group from Wycliffe.  Then, in June of 1998, I received a post card informing me that translators had been assigned.  I was overjoyed and very thankful to God for opening doors for this language group in Indonesia.  Once the translators began, I was sent a list of suggestions with which to pray.  I immediately began to pray for the translators’ abilities to work together and to communicate openly…to be trusting and respectful to each other.  In 2001 one of the four members in the team got very ill and passed away. Then, in 2003 a missionary for Helong, the language group I had been praying for, found a new member on an island called Semau in Eastern Indonesia. I found out later that this new member was Misriani Balle. As my association with the Helong project continued, I prayed that the translation would be accurate, precise, and easily understood.  I also prayed for the Helong people. I wanted them to be receptive of the translation and to recognize as well as to learn about God’s love for them through His Word.

            Several years then passed. It was during these years that I felt the Spirit nudging me to inquire about communicating with a translator.  I prayed about it and contacted a Wycliffe representative via email.  She replied by giving me Misriani Balle’s email address.  SO I emailed Misriani and introduced myself.  God connected us immediately and our long distance friendship began.

            Being in contact with Mis enabled me to follow the team’s progress as they translated the New Testament and Genesis into the Helong language.  Mis and I exchanged emails regularly.  She kept me updated on the project through the following years, and in 2011, the translation was completed.  At that time, Wycliffe sent me a notice of the completion with a picture of the Helong Translation Team and that was when I first saw Mis.  My heart jumped for joy as her smile shined with the love of Jesus.  Continual prayer from 1991 to 2011 brought SUCCESS!!!  Time is not a factor when it comes to God’s timing!!!  

            Once the translation was finished, it was then sent to be printed. And on May 29, 2012, the Helong New Testament was dedicated on Semau Island, Indonesia and distributed to the excited and anxious Helong people.  It was a festive occasion with all praise and glory going to God.  Thanks to Mis I was able to share in this awesome celebration even though separated by distance.

            Before the dedication service, Mis sent me an email message that I want to share.

“Talking about favourite verses in the Bible, I used to love one the most: NRSV Matthew 6:33 but strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.  Now I almost love each verses in the Bible since they are in my Helong language and directly talking to my heart. They are just so clear and close to my heart and understanding.

I pray that the Holy Spirit works in the Helong people hearts and leads them to meet Jesus themselves through this Bible that had been translated into Helong.

Oh sister, it’s hard to express my feeling. I am so overwhelmed and looking forward to the launch especially seeing people holding the Bible as their own, reading it and meeting Jesus themselves.”

Her message brought smiles to my eyes, joy to my heart, and Praise to God, our Father. Her prayer was as mine…for the Helong peoples group to meet and to draw close to Jesus through His Word in their native language!  What a tremendous answer to prayer!!!

            Even though the translation of the Helong New Testament was finished for Mis, she and I continued our “sister” relationship.  We both agreed to pray for each other and to keep in touch via email and eventually face book. Then, in 2016 good news came when Mis informed me that her brother and sister-in-law were now living in Colorado. She had hoped to visit them some day and that we might meet in person.  We both prayed about our meeting and left it in God’s Hands.

            Early in 2017 I heard from Mis that she was going to apply for a visa to visit the United States. Her brother and sister-in-law had had a baby girl and of course, “Auntie” Mis wanted to meet her niece. She was thrilled at the possibility of coming to the states not only to see her niece but to see me as well. I was in disbelief at first, but joy overcame my disbelief as I thanked God, knowing He was responsible for this unexpected opportunity.

            When Mis arrived in Colorado, she contacted me and working around our schedules, we arranged both a date and a location to meet. As a result, our meeting face to face would take place on the second Sunday in October at Limon, Colorado.  Since my husband had a previous engagement, I drove myself and as normal, I arrived early J  While I waited, I thanked God for this event. When I began praying for the Helong Bibleless group, I had no idea that this commitment would run a full circle.  What an amazing journey, but the journey was not quite complete.

            It was shortly after the noon hour when Mis and her brother’s family entered the Flying J truck stop where I awaited.  We immediately recognized each other because we had exchanged photos online.  We greeted each other with hugs and huge smiles. J Both of us stood in awe as our long distance friendship had become “real”.  After further introductions were made, the five of us enjoyed a meal together.

            Before, during, and after our lunch, Mis and I talked non-stop. We had so much to share and to learn more specifically how God had worked in both of our lives during this project.  I discovered that Mis had wrestled with being a translator, but she felt God calling her to undertake this enormous job. She credited my prayers for her decision to undertake this challenging task. I was deeply touched by her words.  I shared how the Spirit had urged me to connect with an on sight translator and eventually we were brought together. She, too, felt gratitude for my commitment.

            We could have talked for hours, but as always there came a time when we had to stop.  Before we parted, we exchanged gifts. And this was where the journey was made complete because lying in my hands was a copy of the Helong New Testament that Mis had placed there.  It had been her brother’s and now it was mine. Tears formed in my eyes. Of course, I couldn’t read the Helong language but I didn’t need too. I knew what it said! Praise God!!!

            It was hard to say “goodbye” for both of us. But we were tremendously blessed by God for giving us this time together.  God had completed His plan to have His Word in a language that the Helong people could read. They could now discover the great treasure of God’s word as I had many years ago. Through the continual activity of the Holy Spirit within us, Mis, the other translators, and I were God’s instruments in accomplishing His work. What a humbling experience for me. Sometimes it’s hard to find words to describe one’s emotions, and this is one of those times for me.

            May God’s work of Bible translation continue to all people’s groups, large or small. And may willing and dedicated individuals step in faith and trust to do this amazing and fulfilling work, not only in the field but in the quiet room of prayer.  TO GOD BE THE GLORY !!  Amen

“I rejoice at Your word as one who finds great treasure.”  Psalm 119: 162

“For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe.” I Thessalonians 2:13

A Personal Hurricane

             While hurricanes Harvey and Irma were leaving their marks upon Texas and Florida, a malfunction in our refrigerator left a mess in our kitchen.  Our incident by no means could compare to the destruction those hurricanes caused, but what struck me was how God took care of our minimal crisis in the midst of the gigantic ones.

              Upon arriving home from a weekend stay with our daughter, discovering the puddle of melted, chocolate-chip mint ice cream in front of the frig was our first clue that a problem existed. My husband immediately found materials to clean up the ice cream while I sorted and tossed all the defrosted food.  Fortunately, in our recent move we had decided to keep our own frig and had placed it in the back entry room to the house so I transferred some non-perishable items to it.

               After our unexpected clean-up job, we drove to town to buy a few essential items to put into our standby frig.  Since it was the Labor Day holiday, we found many of the items we needed as well as other food products on sale.  I smiled and quietly thanked God for these bargains.

               Then, on Labor Day we drove to a different, larger city to shop for a refrigerator.  As it turned out, refrigerators were also on sale.  After checking at several appliance businesses, we found an affordable one that would fulfill our needs. Again, God provided.

               Observing God’s Hand through this incident, I was once again reminded of His gentle, loving care.  No matter the size of the circumstance or situation (hurricane – broken refrigerator) He is there to help us before, during, and after the event. He looks after us even when we fail to ask Him for help.  To me that’s a very special Father.

“Cast your burden on the LORD, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.”  Psalm 55:22

Forgotten Treasures

               Recently, my husband and I moved to a new location after 28 years at our second country home.  In the process of sorting, packing, discarding and recycling, I found all kinds of forgotten treasures.

               Some of them went back to my childhood days when pictures of my school classmates stared at me from an old cigar box.  I had to smile when I ran across a picture of my third grade teacher who was my inspiration for becoming a teacher. More pictures of friends as well as family were uncovered.  In fact, discovering all these forgotten pictures detained me from my packing chores. J

               As I sorted through another box of keepsakes, other items of interest caught my attention.   Letters from the past lay dormant in a snuggly-fit stack:  one from my brother when he was serving in Vietnam; another from my husband when we were dating; one from my dad (and the only one) when I was in college. More remembrances emerged from that box, such as unique birthday cards, both boughten and homemade, cards/notes from family and friends who have passed away, and of course, those carefully prepared cards that only my children could have created. Tears crept into my eyes as memories overwhelmed me.  And then, just when I thought I was ready to move on with more discarding and packing, what should I stumble upon but yearbooks.

               Yearbooks halted my progress once again.  In my school days, yearbooks or annuals were only distributed in high school, unlike today when every level of education receives yearly ones.  Of course, flipping through those four years of my high school era brought chuckles and fond flashbacks as I read the various comments my classmates had written.  I must confess, however, that some of the adventures that were penned had faded from my memory…hmm?? J

               By experiencing this packing process and by re-discovering forgotten items, I caught a glimpse of my past…my life’s history, sort to speak. This awareness made me realize the importance of life and how quickly it passes. But I also came up with another realization. There’s another life importance to me and it lies in my spiritual walk with God.  Just as hidden treasures exist in boxes of belongings so do treasures lie within God’s Word, His written communication to each and every one of us.

               In my hurried life I sometimes forget I have His source to guide, to instruct, to encourage, and to comfort me. In fact, one such jewel spoke to me as my husband and I were deciding our next step after selling our farm land. “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.”  Psalm 32:8.  And guide us, He did. 

               Another verse hiding in one of the books of the Minor Prophets captured my attention. “The LORD God is my strength; He will make my feet like deer’s feet, and He will make me walk on my high hills.”  Habakkuk 3:19.  Even when I am weak and ready to stop the packing and unpacking process, not only in moving but in life’s daily struggles, God will provide me with strength and energy to endure and to finish.

               Finally, the priceless gem that drew me even closer to my Heavenly Father was found in the words from Psalm 36:7, “How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God!  Therefore the children of men put their trust under the shadow of Your wings.”  I am protected by a Father who loves me and whom I can trust. I consider that a HUGE treasure to hold onto and well worth searching for!

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”  Psalm 119:105

Another Dime Incident

Many of you who read my blog know how I collect dimes (“Dimes and Hearts”), and I have come to identify dimes, especially those I unexpectedly find lying on the ground or pavement or wherever to be my reminder of God’s Presence.  Well, my friends, I have another “Dime” story to shareJ

              

It has been a custom in my family to commemorate our departed loved ones by placing flowers on their gravesites over the Memorial Day weekend.  As long as I can remember, Memorial Day was a very important holiday for my family.  Perhaps it was because my dad’s parents had died in their 40s, and my mom’s dad had passed away in his 50s that made remembering them on Memorial Day a special occasion.  Or maybe it was because my Grandmother Phares (my mom’s family) along with my aunts and uncles planned family reunions on that day.  Of course, the reasons don’t matter how or why the custom began. It did, so now as long as I am able, I want to continue it. So…

On Memorial Day 2017 my husband and I drove to my hometown of WaKeeney where we met my Cousin Julie.  This was the first time that her mom, my Aunt Margaret (Phares) Dietz (“Wise Words”) would be among our relatives to honor.  After lunch we drove to the county cemetery and began distributing our flower arrangements.  Our first stop was at the Dietz family gravesites (my dad’s family).  My Grandpa Dietz had foresight to purchase several plots in one area. As a result, all five Dietz brothers with their wives lay near to their parents. Having them all in close vicinity to each other made it convenient in placing the flowers.  When we had finished decorating the graves, we stood with respect and admiration as we shared a few special family memories before heading to our second stop.

The graves of my mom’s family were next on our list.  My mom’s family also claimed WaKeeney as its hometown.  Even though six of my mom’s siblings had relocated through the years, one of her brothers and one of her sisters had bought plots beside their parents. Consequently, we placed more flowers upon their gravesites and once again reminisced.

Ready to proceed to our final destination, we climbed into the car and drove next door to the Kansas Veterans’ Cemetery. Several years ago WaKeeney was chosen to be the site of this special cemetery. Since its completion, it had become the final resting place for veterans of all military branches. Included among these servicemen and women were two friends of my family that I wanted to remember with flowers. Once we left the car, we couldn’t help but be in awe of the rows of identical, white tombstones representing our fallen military men and women.  It was quite a solemn sight.

 We found the first friend’s gravesite rather quickly, but it took some searching before we found the other one.  When I discovered it, I knelt to place the bouquet of flowers AND what should be staring up at me in the short-cut grass but a bright, heads-up, shiny DIME!!  I couldn’t believe it.  I looked at Julie and she saw it too.  My heart pounded because I knew God had dropped it there for us. And His timing was PERFECT because this was our last flower placement.  He was reassuring us of His Presence! This Memorial Day held mixed emotions for Julie as well as for me because of this being her mom’s, my Aunt Margaret’s, first year in the cemetery.  And the first time of placing flowers on a loved one’s gravesite is the hardest. But God, our Father, showed His love and tenderness by reminding us that everything will be okay. He is and always will be with us no matter what life experiences we are facing. He is our constant care provider.  I picked up the dime and placed it in my pocket. A sense of peace came over me and I silently thanked Him for His surprise in the grass.

When we left the Veterans' Cemetery, we drove down WaKeeney’s memory lane.  For Julie, this had become a closure for her.  In years past, Memorial Day had always been a big annual event for our family.  Now, our older generation is gone and WaKeeney is no longer our meeting place. However, no matter where our lives may take us, we have some of the best memories as a family in that small, rural town. And someday our family will be together again in a larger, eternal home!!

”The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.” Psalm 23:1

I'm Hungry

               A couple of weeks ago while I was taking care of Nora and Evalyn, two of my granddaughters, Evalyn, who is two, approached me in the kitchen. “I’m hungry, Grandma. I’m hungry,” she said. I checked the clock to discover it was indeed time for an afternoon snack. In fact, I joined her and Nora for a brief break as we watched the Disney movie, Finding Dory.  When we finished our snack, Nora and Evalyn continued to watch the movie while I returned to the kitchen to create a casserole for supper.

               I hadn’t been in the kitchen ten minutes when I heard tiny steps draw near behind me. “I’m hungry, Grandma.” 

               I looked at Evalyn. “You’re still hungry?”

               She nodded her head, “Uh huh.” Now who could resist that sweet face??                                 

Since the first snack consisted of a fun-size packet of teddy grahams, I cut up half an apple for her.  However, it hadn’t been but twenty minutes or so when Evalyn approached a third time.  Still hungry!!

               I asked Nora who was happily playing with a set of old-fashioned glamour gals if Evalyn was always this hungry at home.  Nora smiled and said she was, but at home her requests were often ignored, especially after her first snack. I thought that was probably the case. BUT, this Grandma gave in and Evalyn enjoyed a third snack, a small cup of cheese puffs.  Yes, I’m a “sucker” when it comes to my grandkids J

               Several days later as I was remembering the grandkids’ visit, I thought of Evalyn and her hunger for snacks. I was reminded of another kind of hunger…a spiritual hunger. Just as Evalyn sought me to satisfy her hunger with a snack so can I seek my Heavenly Father to satisfy my hunger. When I find my faith wavering and growing weak or when I’m depressed and doubting myself and others, I realize I need nourishment. So….I approach my Father by talking to Him, sometimes out loud and other times in silence.  As I express my concerns, my worries, my failings as well as my joys and blessings, I begin to be filled with His assurance and hope.  However, if I’m still not satisfied (still hungry), I turn to the pages of His Holy Word which not only reveal new insights and answers but also provide comfort and confidence. These help in subsiding my hunger pains, but then…like Evalyn, I’m still hungry…so…God in His patience, kindness and goodness leads me to other Christian materials as well as to trustworthy Christian friends who bring me encouragement.

               Now, with all these spiritual “foods” to satisfy my spiritual hunger, my craving subsides but is never complete because my hunger for God’s Son, Jesus, never stops.  That’s the way it is with a personal relationship with Jesus. The more I have and receive from Him, the more I want of Him. Like a Grandmother who responds to the wants of her grandchildren, Jesus fills the emptiness of all who hunger.

“And Jesus said to them, ‘I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst.’”  John 6:35