Monday, November 30, 2009
Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young
One of my favorite Christmas season activities is sitting in a recliner by the fireplace with my husband watching cheesy Christmas movies. Last night was our first opportunity this year. We had put Thanksgiving away, decked the halls, and decorated our first Christmas cookies.
The movie on the Hallmark Channel was called “The National Tree.” In a nutshell, the plot was that the current national tree in Washington, DC, had been struck by lightning and destroyed. A contest was held to find a replacement, then transport it to the spot, replant it, and light it for Christmas.
The winning entry for the national tree was from Rock, a 17-year-old boy in Oregon, who had submitted his entry as a video. Much of the movie had to do with Rock constantly videoing all activities around him and posting them on a VBlog on the internet.
The father agreed to give up the tree only on the condition that he and Rock would personally transport the tree across the country together. Naturally, to make a good story, there had to be challenges along the way, as well as a love story or two.
There were two things about the movie that I found memorable (three if you count that I learned we really do have a National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse south of the White House).
First, I was struck by the power of on-line communication. As the VBlog was shown daily across the world, a huge number of fans of “the tree” were connected. News travels at the speed of the internet. What used to take months to get a message overseas, now is instant. The world today is the small town of yesteryear.
Secondly, the actual story line was about the conflicts between generations as the younger one moves toward adulthood. The movie opened with snapshots of dad and a young son and showed a close, loving relationship. However, as the boy grew up, and boys surely do, the relationship between this father and son changed, as such relationships usually do. Smiles are replaced by irritated expressions. While little boys think their dad is smart, older boys often think their father is dumb, old-fashioned, and out-of-touch.
The father was trying so hard to hold on to the relationship of the past; the son was trying so hard to break free from the past and rush headlong into the future. Anger and resentment rose up on both sides and replaced the former joy. I realized that this scene repeats itself in most households.
A redeeming part of such relationships is that as twenty-somethings get older, their parents look smarter.
The movie on the Hallmark Channel was called “The National Tree.” In a nutshell, the plot was that the current national tree in Washington, DC, had been struck by lightning and destroyed. A contest was held to find a replacement, then transport it to the spot, replant it, and light it for Christmas.
The winning entry for the national tree was from Rock, a 17-year-old boy in Oregon, who had submitted his entry as a video. Much of the movie had to do with Rock constantly videoing all activities around him and posting them on a VBlog on the internet.
The father agreed to give up the tree only on the condition that he and Rock would personally transport the tree across the country together. Naturally, to make a good story, there had to be challenges along the way, as well as a love story or two.
There were two things about the movie that I found memorable (three if you count that I learned we really do have a National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse south of the White House).
First, I was struck by the power of on-line communication. As the VBlog was shown daily across the world, a huge number of fans of “the tree” were connected. News travels at the speed of the internet. What used to take months to get a message overseas, now is instant. The world today is the small town of yesteryear.
Secondly, the actual story line was about the conflicts between generations as the younger one moves toward adulthood. The movie opened with snapshots of dad and a young son and showed a close, loving relationship. However, as the boy grew up, and boys surely do, the relationship between this father and son changed, as such relationships usually do. Smiles are replaced by irritated expressions. While little boys think their dad is smart, older boys often think their father is dumb, old-fashioned, and out-of-touch.
The father was trying so hard to hold on to the relationship of the past; the son was trying so hard to break free from the past and rush headlong into the future. Anger and resentment rose up on both sides and replaced the former joy. I realized that this scene repeats itself in most households.
A redeeming part of such relationships is that as twenty-somethings get older, their parents look smarter.
♫ Teach your children well,
Their father's hell did slowly go by,
And feed them on your dreams
The one they pick
is the one you'll know by.
Don't you ever ask them why,
if they told you, you would cry,
So just look at them and sigh
and know they love you.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Happy Thanksgiving
I heard a deejay on the radio this morning say that it seems we, as a commercial society, brush right past Thanksgiving even though it is a federal holiday. As the stores are tearing down Halloween decorations (not a national holiday), they are putting up Christmas ones. I believe he is right.
But, back to Thanksgiving—why do we often gloss over it? I’m thinking there might be a couple of reasons. First, being “thankful” carries with it the fact that someone did something extra good. It has long been tradition in our nation to give thanks to God for his bountiful blessings as He did extra good things for us.
They had Thanksgiving for three days. They invited at least 90 Indian men (plus women too?) and entertained and feasted because they were “so far from want by the goodness of God.”
But here in 2009, almost 400 years later, are we too modern, too advanced, or too intelligent to think that we should give thanks to an almighty God who has repeatedly demonstrated his goodness to us? You see, I think that’s the problem—if we are going to say “thank you,” we need someone to say it to. If we have become so “evolved” that we believe God does not exist, we then have no one to thank. So, we call it “Turkey Day,” forget the thankful stuff, watch some football and parades, and get on with Christmas.
My other thought comes from an observation that Halloween and Christmas are both very, very big. Why is that? I’d like to think the latter is because it is a celebration of God coming to earth bodily; however, I’m afraid that it has more to do with Santa and PRESENTS—the “I want stuff!!!” notion. Is that why Halloween is such a favorite—because it’s a license to accumulate great quantities of treats? Is "getting" the theme that these two seasons share, while Thanksgiving is more about giving than receiving?
In Acts 20, we hear that Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” It’s a bit difficult for kids to understand that concept; and, I’m afraid, the same could be said about many adults. “Getting” may be the excuse to buy oneself the newest technological toy—to take care of #1.
To paraphrase John Gill’s exposition of the bible, it is much more of a privilege “for a man to work with his own hands, and support himself, and assist others, than to receive at the hands of others.” We all need help sometimes, but how much greater to have enough and to help someone else. Oh, it doesn’t feed our greed, but our kinder nature led by the Spirit of God is fed sumptuously when we give to others.
After saying all that, I kind of hate to admit that we spent hours yesterday putting up Christmas decorations at our restaurant; but if I might offer an excuse, we have several Christmas parties booked starting later this week. The restaurant is beginning to look really festive, and I do love the Christmas lights, the cookies, the music, the family activities, and the smiles that people often wear.
But, I’m not ready to forget Thanksgiving. I want to celebrate Thursday by being thankful and sharing the blessings God has given us (well, that is unless our new baby comes that day—then we’ll really be thankful, even as we eat bologna!!!)
HAPPY THANKSGIVING
But, back to Thanksgiving—why do we often gloss over it? I’m thinking there might be a couple of reasons. First, being “thankful” carries with it the fact that someone did something extra good. It has long been tradition in our nation to give thanks to God for his bountiful blessings as He did extra good things for us.
A description of the "First Thanksgiving" from Edward Winslow in “A Journal of the Pilgrims at Plymouth,” in 1621: “Our harvest being gotten in, our governor sent four men on fowling, so that . . . we might rejoice together after we had gathered the fruit of our labors. They four in one day killed much fowl. . . many of the Indians coming amongst us, and among the rest their greatest king Massasoit, with some ninety men, whom for three days we entertained and feasted. . . yet by the goodness of God, we are so far from want that we often wish you partakers of our plenty."
They had Thanksgiving for three days. They invited at least 90 Indian men (plus women too?) and entertained and feasted because they were “so far from want by the goodness of God.”
But here in 2009, almost 400 years later, are we too modern, too advanced, or too intelligent to think that we should give thanks to an almighty God who has repeatedly demonstrated his goodness to us? You see, I think that’s the problem—if we are going to say “thank you,” we need someone to say it to. If we have become so “evolved” that we believe God does not exist, we then have no one to thank. So, we call it “Turkey Day,” forget the thankful stuff, watch some football and parades, and get on with Christmas.
My other thought comes from an observation that Halloween and Christmas are both very, very big. Why is that? I’d like to think the latter is because it is a celebration of God coming to earth bodily; however, I’m afraid that it has more to do with Santa and PRESENTS—the “I want stuff!!!” notion. Is that why Halloween is such a favorite—because it’s a license to accumulate great quantities of treats? Is "getting" the theme that these two seasons share, while Thanksgiving is more about giving than receiving?
In Acts 20, we hear that Jesus said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” It’s a bit difficult for kids to understand that concept; and, I’m afraid, the same could be said about many adults. “Getting” may be the excuse to buy oneself the newest technological toy—to take care of #1.
To paraphrase John Gill’s exposition of the bible, it is much more of a privilege “for a man to work with his own hands, and support himself, and assist others, than to receive at the hands of others.” We all need help sometimes, but how much greater to have enough and to help someone else. Oh, it doesn’t feed our greed, but our kinder nature led by the Spirit of God is fed sumptuously when we give to others.
After saying all that, I kind of hate to admit that we spent hours yesterday putting up Christmas decorations at our restaurant; but if I might offer an excuse, we have several Christmas parties booked starting later this week. The restaurant is beginning to look really festive, and I do love the Christmas lights, the cookies, the music, the family activities, and the smiles that people often wear.
But, I’m not ready to forget Thanksgiving. I want to celebrate Thursday by being thankful and sharing the blessings God has given us (well, that is unless our new baby comes that day—then we’ll really be thankful, even as we eat bologna!!!)
HAPPY THANKSGIVING
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Differences
We have spent the past few days at an educational conference. One of the sessions described the generations sharing the present-day workplace and the challenges facing that mixture. This intrigued me, so I lightly researched the topic. None of this is original with me, but I did find it interesting. Most of the sources were quick to explain that there would be many not fitting the general pattern. I would add that there will be many who are “between” groups (me being one of those) and may see some qualities of both. I don’t guarantee these are truthful; still, it’s fun to see if we have any of the listed characteristics.
Matures Born Prior to Mid 1940’s
• Frugal - Experienced depression-related hard times
• Entertainment as youth – radio (no TV)
• Often Technology illiterate
• Family view – close, married once
• Economic philosophy - save
Baby Boomers Mid 1940’s to 1960
• Strong work ethic–work 8 to 5 plus go early, stay late
• Believe one must work to get ahead
• Unsuccessful in passing on work ethic to their Generation Y kids
• Entertainment as youth – TV with 3 channels
• Technology-inhibited
• Family view – some in-tact families; some divorce & remarriage
• Economic philosophy - spend
Generation X Born 1960-mid 1970’s
• Ambitious but wants things on their own terms
• Individualistic, resourceful, and self-sufficient
• Disdain for authority and structured work hours
• Wonders why Baby Boomers won’t retire so they can move up the ladder
• Entertainment as youth – TV with 30+ channels, VCR, Nintendo
• Technology savvy
• Family view – latch key kids, single parent/blended families
• Economic philosophy – charge it
Generation Y Born mid 1970’s to mid 1990’s
• Feeling of entitlement - Think things are owed to them
• Has inflated expectations – “I should be in charge”
• Loves instant gratification – not willing to wait in line or save for a purchase
• Seeks instant communication – cell phones, texting, IM, internet
• Very technology savvy – computers, iPods, phones w/internet, social networking
• Few land-line phones; prefer text rather than phone
• Entertainment – TV with 100+ channels, surfing the net, Play Station, X Box, Wii
• Family view – loose family structure; single parent
• Economic Philosophy – help spend parents’ money
Recognizing the varying characteristics of the generations, it is evident that teaching methods need to be altered, not only in the schools but also in the church. The message of salvation through the shed blood of Jesus Christ must never be altered, but the messenger can use technology and creativity to get that message to all generations, “to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever!”Ephesians 3:21
Matures Born Prior to Mid 1940’s
• Frugal - Experienced depression-related hard times
• Entertainment as youth – radio (no TV)
• Often Technology illiterate
• Family view – close, married once
• Economic philosophy - save
Baby Boomers Mid 1940’s to 1960
• Strong work ethic–work 8 to 5 plus go early, stay late
• Believe one must work to get ahead
• Unsuccessful in passing on work ethic to their Generation Y kids
• Entertainment as youth – TV with 3 channels
• Technology-inhibited
• Family view – some in-tact families; some divorce & remarriage
• Economic philosophy - spend
Generation X Born 1960-mid 1970’s
• Ambitious but wants things on their own terms
• Individualistic, resourceful, and self-sufficient
• Disdain for authority and structured work hours
• Wonders why Baby Boomers won’t retire so they can move up the ladder
• Entertainment as youth – TV with 30+ channels, VCR, Nintendo
• Technology savvy
• Family view – latch key kids, single parent/blended families
• Economic philosophy – charge it
Generation Y Born mid 1970’s to mid 1990’s
• Feeling of entitlement - Think things are owed to them
• Has inflated expectations – “I should be in charge”
• Loves instant gratification – not willing to wait in line or save for a purchase
• Seeks instant communication – cell phones, texting, IM, internet
• Very technology savvy – computers, iPods, phones w/internet, social networking
• Few land-line phones; prefer text rather than phone
• Entertainment – TV with 100+ channels, surfing the net, Play Station, X Box, Wii
• Family view – loose family structure; single parent
• Economic Philosophy – help spend parents’ money
Recognizing the varying characteristics of the generations, it is evident that teaching methods need to be altered, not only in the schools but also in the church. The message of salvation through the shed blood of Jesus Christ must never be altered, but the messenger can use technology and creativity to get that message to all generations, “to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever!”Ephesians 3:21
Friday, November 20, 2009
Mom Always Liked You . . .
Each time the phone rings, I hold my breath and wait to hear if our daughter-in-law has gone into labor with our new grandson. The arrival of grandchildren is so precious that I sure don’t want to miss it. I am so eager to meet our new tiny gift. His cousin is only three months old, and has grown, getting cuter by the day. How exciting to watch two tiny boys grow and join the older three in play.
As I think about this new little life and the other four, I am reminded of the four children growing up in our home over the years. The most frustrating part of that dynamic was the ongoing “who’s the favorite” or as the Smothers Brothers used to say “Mom always liked you best” comments. Although grown, they still bring up that evaluation occasionally.
I’m pretty sure that it will take having multiple children of their own to understand the erroneousness of such a comparison. I don’t have a pecking order of love for my kids. I know each of them inside out (except for what they have hidden from me) and know each one’s idiosyncrasies, quirks, and strengths. They are each precious in my sight. Do I love one more than another? Absolutely not! Would I help one more than another? Absolutely not! Have I always treated each one exactly the same. Of course not! However, I have always sought to give each one everything that they needed (not necessarily wanted) if it was humanly possible. In that respect, it was exactly the same.
As I write these words, the truth of the Scriptures echoes in my mind. God has many, many children. John 1:12 says, “Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God…” He knows each of us inside out (nothing is hidden from His sight) and he knows our individual idiosyncrasies, quirks, and strengths. We are each precious in His sight.
Does God love one more than another? Absolutely not! Romans 2:11explains, “For God does not show favoritism.” Would He help one more than another? Absolutely not! James 1:5 indicates “. . .God, who gives generously to all. . .” Does He always treat each one of us exactly the same. Of course not! He said in Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD.” Does He give us all exactly the same things? No, He gives us what we need. “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
Isn’t it tempting to look at others who seem to have more advantages and think “God must love them more” or “Why can’t I have. . .?” Maybe that’s why God wrote the 10th commandment, “You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."
I have had a wonderful opportunity to practice that commandment for several years—my next door neighbor has a swimming pool, but I don’t covet it. Really. Who would want a swimming pool? Okay, I’m still practicing.
As I think about this new little life and the other four, I am reminded of the four children growing up in our home over the years. The most frustrating part of that dynamic was the ongoing “who’s the favorite” or as the Smothers Brothers used to say “Mom always liked you best” comments. Although grown, they still bring up that evaluation occasionally.
I’m pretty sure that it will take having multiple children of their own to understand the erroneousness of such a comparison. I don’t have a pecking order of love for my kids. I know each of them inside out (except for what they have hidden from me) and know each one’s idiosyncrasies, quirks, and strengths. They are each precious in my sight. Do I love one more than another? Absolutely not! Would I help one more than another? Absolutely not! Have I always treated each one exactly the same. Of course not! However, I have always sought to give each one everything that they needed (not necessarily wanted) if it was humanly possible. In that respect, it was exactly the same.
As I write these words, the truth of the Scriptures echoes in my mind. God has many, many children. John 1:12 says, “Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God…” He knows each of us inside out (nothing is hidden from His sight) and he knows our individual idiosyncrasies, quirks, and strengths. We are each precious in His sight.
Does God love one more than another? Absolutely not! Romans 2:11explains, “For God does not show favoritism.” Would He help one more than another? Absolutely not! James 1:5 indicates “. . .God, who gives generously to all. . .” Does He always treat each one of us exactly the same. Of course not! He said in Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD.” Does He give us all exactly the same things? No, He gives us what we need. “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
Isn’t it tempting to look at others who seem to have more advantages and think “God must love them more” or “Why can’t I have. . .?” Maybe that’s why God wrote the 10th commandment, “You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."
I have had a wonderful opportunity to practice that commandment for several years—my next door neighbor has a swimming pool, but I don’t covet it. Really. Who would want a swimming pool? Okay, I’m still practicing.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Do Something
Reading the news is getting more and more (uh, let’s see what word do I want?) confusing, bewildering, disconcerting. I may have to give up seeking to stay abreast of current events and focus on a more narrow “me, my, and our.” That sounds way more selfish that I mean for it to, so perhaps I should re-phrase it to say “focus on that which I have some degree of influence.”
I’m not at all influential, but I can seek to make a contribution to my family, my church, my friends, and my community. All else beyond those four are completely out of my sphere of influence except in prayer, and I’m not very good at prayer! Oh, I love to talk to God, but am not good at “being in prayer.”
When I was a little girl, I often heard the phrase in prayers, “if it be thy will.” I rarely use it because I find that it haunts me and provides an excuse not to pray in faith.
I indeed know some things about God’s will because they are settled from the Scriptures—God created; He loved and gave; Jesus died and rose again; the Lord is my shepherd; He is with me always; love one another; and many, many other proclamations of his will.
Yet, I don’t know how to pray for many serious concerns like economic disaster, pornography, abortion, movement toward one-world government, future quality of life for children, nuclear threats, and the campaign to eliminate Christianity from our nation and our world.
Enough of that paragraph—how depressing!(but still a reality). How do I go about reconciling my strong faith in an all-powerful God with the daily headlines? What can I do? I have two thoughts.
First, I rest in knowing that God has a plan and is at work. I, as well as everyone else, have the privilege of gaining insight into more of his will and his plan as we study his user manual.
Secondly, I do what I can do. Matthew 27:48 tells a story about a young man who demonstrated that when Jesus was near death on the cross. “Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, put it on a stick, and offered it to Jesus to drink. The rest said, "Now leave him alone. Let's see if Elijah comes to save him." While others stood and watched, this one did something. He offered Jesus a drink. He couldn’t do everything; but, he could do something. He couldn’t change circumstances. But, ignoring political correctness and jeers of others, he could do something, and he did.
That’s what I want—to do the something I can.
I’m not at all influential, but I can seek to make a contribution to my family, my church, my friends, and my community. All else beyond those four are completely out of my sphere of influence except in prayer, and I’m not very good at prayer! Oh, I love to talk to God, but am not good at “being in prayer.”
When I was a little girl, I often heard the phrase in prayers, “if it be thy will.” I rarely use it because I find that it haunts me and provides an excuse not to pray in faith.
I indeed know some things about God’s will because they are settled from the Scriptures—God created; He loved and gave; Jesus died and rose again; the Lord is my shepherd; He is with me always; love one another; and many, many other proclamations of his will.
Yet, I don’t know how to pray for many serious concerns like economic disaster, pornography, abortion, movement toward one-world government, future quality of life for children, nuclear threats, and the campaign to eliminate Christianity from our nation and our world.
Enough of that paragraph—how depressing!(but still a reality). How do I go about reconciling my strong faith in an all-powerful God with the daily headlines? What can I do? I have two thoughts.
First, I rest in knowing that God has a plan and is at work. I, as well as everyone else, have the privilege of gaining insight into more of his will and his plan as we study his user manual.
Secondly, I do what I can do. Matthew 27:48 tells a story about a young man who demonstrated that when Jesus was near death on the cross. “Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, put it on a stick, and offered it to Jesus to drink. The rest said, "Now leave him alone. Let's see if Elijah comes to save him." While others stood and watched, this one did something. He offered Jesus a drink. He couldn’t do everything; but, he could do something. He couldn’t change circumstances. But, ignoring political correctness and jeers of others, he could do something, and he did.
♫ If you gotta’ start somewhere,
why not here?
If you gotta’ start sometime,
why not now?
Tobymac - City On Our Knees
That’s what I want—to do the something I can.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Delightful
It’s waiting time again in our family—a new baby coming to bring the number of our grandchildren to five. Modern technology says it is a boy; and on paper, he is due at the end of November. We are thinking he will come sooner, especially since this is baby #2. Whenever he comes, it will be in his or His time.
Pondering the upcoming occasion, I thought of how excited our family and the other grandparents as well as aunts, uncles, and cousins are. Isn’t it sad that sometimes the impending birth of a baby does not bring happy anticipation? Sometimes pregnancy can come about merely through careless behavior or at inopportune times. Sometimes a difficult family situation is seen as harder because of a new mouth to feed, etc. Sometimes couples have prayed for and cried for a baby only to find it difficult to conceive.
Considering the wide variety of reactions to the birth of a newborn, I thought about the reactions to being “born again.” Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” We actually know what some reactions are, “I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents.”
Isn’t that good to know? Whether or not there was rejoicing over our birth on earth, there is rejoicing in heaven over our re-birth. I do believe the Father is as excited over His children as we are over our new baby (and the other ones already here).
In fact in Zephaniah 3 it says, “The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing."
How cool is that! Did you notice that “great delight” thing, and don’t you love the picture of God rejoicing over us with singing? That is good news—God thinks we are delightful!
Pondering the upcoming occasion, I thought of how excited our family and the other grandparents as well as aunts, uncles, and cousins are. Isn’t it sad that sometimes the impending birth of a baby does not bring happy anticipation? Sometimes pregnancy can come about merely through careless behavior or at inopportune times. Sometimes a difficult family situation is seen as harder because of a new mouth to feed, etc. Sometimes couples have prayed for and cried for a baby only to find it difficult to conceive.
Considering the wide variety of reactions to the birth of a newborn, I thought about the reactions to being “born again.” Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” We actually know what some reactions are, “I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents.”
Isn’t that good to know? Whether or not there was rejoicing over our birth on earth, there is rejoicing in heaven over our re-birth. I do believe the Father is as excited over His children as we are over our new baby (and the other ones already here).
In fact in Zephaniah 3 it says, “The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing."
How cool is that! Did you notice that “great delight” thing, and don’t you love the picture of God rejoicing over us with singing? That is good news—God thinks we are delightful!
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Random thoughts from a Sunday afternoon:
(In no particular order)
• Really like the pie auction youth fundraiser after church today. Tried some great pies like pumpkin, triple berry, coconut cream (wow, Jenny), pumpkin cheesecake (ditto, Paul), Oreo pie, and perhaps some others. Did tiny pieces, but still . . .
• Feel blessed to get to teach the Rock Group Sunday School class. Super bunch of young people, each with a great sense of humor.
• Hope “Feed Your Faith” goes well Wednesday evening with our pre-Thanksgiving meal—like all the food yummy, ready at the right time, and plentiful for the crowd that comes to eat.
• Am grateful for health, family, friends, and all of God’s blessings.
• Wish computers were user friendly—trying to set up a laptop and not very good at it—was born too early to be high tech.
• Am so sorry my daughter doesn’t have storage space to put stuff away. It must be genetic—I have too much stuff, too.
• Feel so thankful for neighbors who chopped leaves in our big yard just to help out my husband who was farming day and night.
• Love spending time with our two granddaughters and grandson.
• Hate being so far from our other grandson—miss holding him and worry he won’t remember me.
• Thought the Rock Group’s lesson from I Samuel 25 on David, Nabal, and Abigail was encouraging to good people but full of warning to those who choose to be “surly and mean.”
• Don’t know whether to go to Chicago on Thursday since new grandson could be born any day—would like to do both, but don’t want to miss Slugger’s appearance.
• It’s almost Monday, AGAIN!!
• Kinda’ wish I knew what God was doing in our world and in our country, but then again, never wanted to be a prophet.
Surely the Sovereign LORD does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets. Amos 3:7
• Really like the pie auction youth fundraiser after church today. Tried some great pies like pumpkin, triple berry, coconut cream (wow, Jenny), pumpkin cheesecake (ditto, Paul), Oreo pie, and perhaps some others. Did tiny pieces, but still . . .
• Feel blessed to get to teach the Rock Group Sunday School class. Super bunch of young people, each with a great sense of humor.
• Hope “Feed Your Faith” goes well Wednesday evening with our pre-Thanksgiving meal—like all the food yummy, ready at the right time, and plentiful for the crowd that comes to eat.
• Am grateful for health, family, friends, and all of God’s blessings.
• Wish computers were user friendly—trying to set up a laptop and not very good at it—was born too early to be high tech.
• Am so sorry my daughter doesn’t have storage space to put stuff away. It must be genetic—I have too much stuff, too.
• Feel so thankful for neighbors who chopped leaves in our big yard just to help out my husband who was farming day and night.
• Love spending time with our two granddaughters and grandson.
• Hate being so far from our other grandson—miss holding him and worry he won’t remember me.
• Thought the Rock Group’s lesson from I Samuel 25 on David, Nabal, and Abigail was encouraging to good people but full of warning to those who choose to be “surly and mean.”
• Don’t know whether to go to Chicago on Thursday since new grandson could be born any day—would like to do both, but don’t want to miss Slugger’s appearance.
• It’s almost Monday, AGAIN!!
• Kinda’ wish I knew what God was doing in our world and in our country, but then again, never wanted to be a prophet.
Surely the Sovereign LORD does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets. Amos 3:7
Friday, November 13, 2009
Forever Young?
I have an approaching birthday and realize that I may not be “young.” As my granddaughter tells me stories about her first grade class, it takes me back to my early school years. I don’t have as cool stories as do those decades older, but I did grow up in an almost “Little House on the Prairie” time in a small town—a far different era from today.
Our little school had three classrooms: first and second grades were together; third, fourth, and fifth grades shared a room; and sixth, seventh, and eighth grades made up the “big kids” room. In the basement were the cafeteria, music room, and boiler room. I never knew what the last one was or if it had a “boiler” (whatever a boiler is). The basement had windows with wells that always collected leaves in the fall and flooded during storms or excessive rain.
The school was surrounded by a large grass lawn with great shade trees and several areas of playground equipment. There were large sidewalks for roller skating. The playground equipment was nothing like the elaborate play systems of today, but they were fun. We used waxed bread sacks to make the metal slides lightening slick, but today I guess slides are plastic and don’t lose their slippery-ness. Good thing! Today’s bread wrappers wouldn’t work.
School, in my memory, was a wonderfully fun place; but it was a disciplined place. “Paddling” was still allowed when needed, but used infrequently—only for ornery boys testing to see how far they could push the rules. Mostly, it just didn’t occur to us to disobey our teachers. Obedience was expected at home and at school.
Each teacher seemed hand-picked for their age group. My first/second grade teacher was a mother hen expecting much from her chicks. She loved us, hugged us, and instilled in us that we were worth way too much not to excel.
My third-fifth grade teacher was a scary—no nonsense type. She, too, expected and demanded much, but praised accomplishments liberally. Even the unruly boys learned to behave in her room.
My sixth-eighth grade teacher was also the school principal. I remember him as being a good teacher, but again one who expected much. He taught us a broad variety of subjects from “orthography”(my most valuable course) to current events and everything in between. We had no science equipment, etc., but found ourselves well prepared for the transition to high school. Friday afternoons (if we had met his expectations) was our favorite time—“Hunt cities.” With an atlas for each student, we played a racing game to find obscure towns and rivers on the maps. We became great map students.
We did without perceptible educational benefits, and yet almost all students from that small school excelled. Is that true of modern schools? What’s missing in today’s schools following several decades of “advancement”? Could it be that God was welcome then but forbidden now? Could it be that His principles for families, raising children, work ethic, and respect have been left behind in the name of progress? King David said, The fool says in his heart, "There is no God." Psalm 14:1 It would appear the fool has spoken.
Bob Dylan, on the other hand, said:
Forever young? Hmmmmmmmm, I like it!
Our little school had three classrooms: first and second grades were together; third, fourth, and fifth grades shared a room; and sixth, seventh, and eighth grades made up the “big kids” room. In the basement were the cafeteria, music room, and boiler room. I never knew what the last one was or if it had a “boiler” (whatever a boiler is). The basement had windows with wells that always collected leaves in the fall and flooded during storms or excessive rain.
The school was surrounded by a large grass lawn with great shade trees and several areas of playground equipment. There were large sidewalks for roller skating. The playground equipment was nothing like the elaborate play systems of today, but they were fun. We used waxed bread sacks to make the metal slides lightening slick, but today I guess slides are plastic and don’t lose their slippery-ness. Good thing! Today’s bread wrappers wouldn’t work.
School, in my memory, was a wonderfully fun place; but it was a disciplined place. “Paddling” was still allowed when needed, but used infrequently—only for ornery boys testing to see how far they could push the rules. Mostly, it just didn’t occur to us to disobey our teachers. Obedience was expected at home and at school.
Each teacher seemed hand-picked for their age group. My first/second grade teacher was a mother hen expecting much from her chicks. She loved us, hugged us, and instilled in us that we were worth way too much not to excel.
My third-fifth grade teacher was a scary—no nonsense type. She, too, expected and demanded much, but praised accomplishments liberally. Even the unruly boys learned to behave in her room.
My sixth-eighth grade teacher was also the school principal. I remember him as being a good teacher, but again one who expected much. He taught us a broad variety of subjects from “orthography”(my most valuable course) to current events and everything in between. We had no science equipment, etc., but found ourselves well prepared for the transition to high school. Friday afternoons (if we had met his expectations) was our favorite time—“Hunt cities.” With an atlas for each student, we played a racing game to find obscure towns and rivers on the maps. We became great map students.
We did without perceptible educational benefits, and yet almost all students from that small school excelled. Is that true of modern schools? What’s missing in today’s schools following several decades of “advancement”? Could it be that God was welcome then but forbidden now? Could it be that His principles for families, raising children, work ethic, and respect have been left behind in the name of progress? King David said, The fool says in his heart, "There is no God." Psalm 14:1 It would appear the fool has spoken.
Bob Dylan, on the other hand, said:
♫ May God bless and keep you always
May your wishes all come true
May you always do for others
And let others do for you
May you build a ladder to the stars
And climb on every rung
May you stay forever young
May you grow up to be righteous
May you grow up to be true
May you always know the truth
And see the lights surrounding you
May you always be courageous
Stand upright and be strong
May you stay forever young
May your hands always be busy
May your feet always be swift
May you have a strong foundation
When the winds of changes shift
May your heart always be joyful
And may your song always be sung
May you stay forever young
Forever young? Hmmmmmmmm, I like it!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Belonging
Okay, one more blog entry about yesterday’s funeral—but this one has little to do with it other than as a periphery. I had mentioned some specific friends who had moved away and came back for the celebration. There were others who came back, too, and this blog has to do with a woman that traveled several hours to attend.
In the serving line for lunch, I heard her speak some dreadfully sad words. I only mention the serving line to explain why the exchange was such a short one. People were moving quickly through the line and talking all around. Yet, these few words resonated in my ears for the rest of the day. The words were not about our mutual friend’s untimely death, but about her personally.
I had not seen her since her move a few months ago. Standing across the serving counter, I asked if her new residence was beginning to feel like home. Her reply seemed to be a heart’s cry from deep inside. “No,” she replied, “I don’t feel like I belong. We moved several times, and I don’t feel like I belong anywhere.”
The lunch line quickly moved on, but I realized that we who were there at that moment had been privy to a great pain. I longed to say something to bring healing and to make her circumstances better, but I could not. Oh, I can sit at my computer and type my response, highlight and delete it, and then re-type a more appropriate response or a more thought-out response or a more heart-felt response. But she had moved on and I had said nothing.
The apparent response (at least to me) was to quickly say that she belonged here, but that didn’t seem appropriate--she had understandably chosen to move from here to be closer to her family. Nevertheless, her words still echoed in my ears.
As I considered what I could have said, I thought more about her and her college-age children. I don’t know exactly when they had moved to our small town and began attending our church, but I know the kids went through high school and were very active in music and other activities. They were also very talented and active in the music ministry of our church; but as kids do, they had grown up and gone away to college. We saw them infrequently (but loved it when they came back). I wonder if and where they feel they belong.
I have known several families who have moved to a new town and a new life when their youngest child finished high school, and I always wondered if it changed that sense of belonging for their kids. However, perhaps one belongs to “people” rather than “places.” I have known families who have moved several times. They have “belonged” each place they lived and are far richer in friends and experiences because of it.
I, on the other hand, have lived in this small community for over 40 years and it is only 8 miles from where I grew up. My only moving was to college and back. So, do I feel like I belong? Hmmmmm! Do I even know what belonging means? Does it mean that others are glad to see me and “expect” to see me at certain times and places? Does it mean there is an unseen bond between me and certain others? Is belonging just in my eyes? In others’ eyes? Do you belong? Are there membership cards?
Or, is “belonging” one of the great benefits of being a follower of Christ? Jesus said, “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." So, in the kingdom, I can sense the privilege of belonging to Jesus and his body; but, I also have a responsibility, “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly…”
Was I a friend to the woman in pain? I don’t know.
In the serving line for lunch, I heard her speak some dreadfully sad words. I only mention the serving line to explain why the exchange was such a short one. People were moving quickly through the line and talking all around. Yet, these few words resonated in my ears for the rest of the day. The words were not about our mutual friend’s untimely death, but about her personally.
I had not seen her since her move a few months ago. Standing across the serving counter, I asked if her new residence was beginning to feel like home. Her reply seemed to be a heart’s cry from deep inside. “No,” she replied, “I don’t feel like I belong. We moved several times, and I don’t feel like I belong anywhere.”
The lunch line quickly moved on, but I realized that we who were there at that moment had been privy to a great pain. I longed to say something to bring healing and to make her circumstances better, but I could not. Oh, I can sit at my computer and type my response, highlight and delete it, and then re-type a more appropriate response or a more thought-out response or a more heart-felt response. But she had moved on and I had said nothing.
The apparent response (at least to me) was to quickly say that she belonged here, but that didn’t seem appropriate--she had understandably chosen to move from here to be closer to her family. Nevertheless, her words still echoed in my ears.
As I considered what I could have said, I thought more about her and her college-age children. I don’t know exactly when they had moved to our small town and began attending our church, but I know the kids went through high school and were very active in music and other activities. They were also very talented and active in the music ministry of our church; but as kids do, they had grown up and gone away to college. We saw them infrequently (but loved it when they came back). I wonder if and where they feel they belong.
I have known several families who have moved to a new town and a new life when their youngest child finished high school, and I always wondered if it changed that sense of belonging for their kids. However, perhaps one belongs to “people” rather than “places.” I have known families who have moved several times. They have “belonged” each place they lived and are far richer in friends and experiences because of it.
I, on the other hand, have lived in this small community for over 40 years and it is only 8 miles from where I grew up. My only moving was to college and back. So, do I feel like I belong? Hmmmmm! Do I even know what belonging means? Does it mean that others are glad to see me and “expect” to see me at certain times and places? Does it mean there is an unseen bond between me and certain others? Is belonging just in my eyes? In others’ eyes? Do you belong? Are there membership cards?
Or, is “belonging” one of the great benefits of being a follower of Christ? Jesus said, “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." So, in the kingdom, I can sense the privilege of belonging to Jesus and his body; but, I also have a responsibility, “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly…”
Was I a friend to the woman in pain? I don’t know.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Remembering
Well, today was the funeral and a wonderful lunch served with love by the Good News Sunday School Class. At the funeral, we cried, we laughed, we sang, we looked at pictures, we remembered.
Wonderful friends from the past returned to be part of the commemoration of this simple farmer’s life. Some musicians (an organist, a pianist, and a singer), a former pastor, and their dear families were among those who came and celebrated memories. Like many others, they have moved away from our small town to various areas of the country.
Memories of a time past came flooding back. Barbara played the pipe organ; Steve played the piano; and Duane sang as only Duane can. Mark spoke of remembering 32 years of Martin's support and contagious smile.
Seeing Steve and Duane brought back especially sweet recollections for me as those two men took our youngest son Jeremy under their wings and taught him to use his voice for God’s glory. Duane might not have been our ideal role model for Jeremy in the choir, but he shared his love of singing along with having much fun in whatever he was doing. Duane was a quintessential Southern Gospel tenor. Steve had a beautiful tenor/baritone voice. The two of them, along with Jeremy, frequently would sing at church; and for me, it was the most beautiful music on earth. One of my favorites was a song called “He Still Speaks.”
Steve and Barbara were such an impressive duo on organ and piano. When they played together again today, the building almost shook and many of us realized how blessed we were to have regularly heard their combined talents. Even though they have been gone for many years assigned to other churches, Pastor Mark and his wonderful wife Nancy have been influential in many lives here because we all had children who were growing up in the church during those days. It is so fun to remember the families (although those short little kids are now tall and out of college).
Yet as they all head their separate ways, we who remain here will seek to go forward missing one of our pillars. Now it’s our turn to be a pillar for Shirley and help her find a way to continue using her considerable gifts in spite of her grief and loss. She mentioned that she felt half of her was gone as they had truly become one, but I know her to be a whole person who has been, is now, and will be in the future used mightily of the Lord.
I’m reminded of Anna when she saw the Lord as a baby in Luke 2 (although Shirley is not at all old and was married much longer). “There was also a prophetess, Anna… She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage…She…worshiped night and day…Coming up to Joseph and Mary, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all…” Shirley still has much to say about the Lord to a great many people who want and need to hear her.
It was an emotional day, a great celebration, and a wonderful farewell service. I am reminded of what King David said following the death of his child even though he had prayed and fasted for him. David said wisely that the child could not return to him, but that he would go to where the child was. I know that would be Martin’s desire—that all would go to the place where he now is.
This is the song by Chris Tomlin that played before the service:
We will see you again, Martin.
Wonderful friends from the past returned to be part of the commemoration of this simple farmer’s life. Some musicians (an organist, a pianist, and a singer), a former pastor, and their dear families were among those who came and celebrated memories. Like many others, they have moved away from our small town to various areas of the country.
Memories of a time past came flooding back. Barbara played the pipe organ; Steve played the piano; and Duane sang as only Duane can. Mark spoke of remembering 32 years of Martin's support and contagious smile.
Seeing Steve and Duane brought back especially sweet recollections for me as those two men took our youngest son Jeremy under their wings and taught him to use his voice for God’s glory. Duane might not have been our ideal role model for Jeremy in the choir, but he shared his love of singing along with having much fun in whatever he was doing. Duane was a quintessential Southern Gospel tenor. Steve had a beautiful tenor/baritone voice. The two of them, along with Jeremy, frequently would sing at church; and for me, it was the most beautiful music on earth. One of my favorites was a song called “He Still Speaks.”
Steve and Barbara were such an impressive duo on organ and piano. When they played together again today, the building almost shook and many of us realized how blessed we were to have regularly heard their combined talents. Even though they have been gone for many years assigned to other churches, Pastor Mark and his wonderful wife Nancy have been influential in many lives here because we all had children who were growing up in the church during those days. It is so fun to remember the families (although those short little kids are now tall and out of college).
Yet as they all head their separate ways, we who remain here will seek to go forward missing one of our pillars. Now it’s our turn to be a pillar for Shirley and help her find a way to continue using her considerable gifts in spite of her grief and loss. She mentioned that she felt half of her was gone as they had truly become one, but I know her to be a whole person who has been, is now, and will be in the future used mightily of the Lord.
I’m reminded of Anna when she saw the Lord as a baby in Luke 2 (although Shirley is not at all old and was married much longer). “There was also a prophetess, Anna… She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage…She…worshiped night and day…Coming up to Joseph and Mary, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all…” Shirley still has much to say about the Lord to a great many people who want and need to hear her.
It was an emotional day, a great celebration, and a wonderful farewell service. I am reminded of what King David said following the death of his child even though he had prayed and fasted for him. David said wisely that the child could not return to him, but that he would go to where the child was. I know that would be Martin’s desire—that all would go to the place where he now is.
This is the song by Chris Tomlin that played before the service:
♫ There's a peace I've come to know
Though my heart and flesh may fail
There's an anchor for my soul
I can say, "it is well"
Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead
I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God, fall on my knees and rise
I will rise
We will see you again, Martin.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
When I Get Where I'm Going
Friday night, Martin, one the most outstanding men I have ever known, moved from time into eternity. He was indeed a man of greatness. He never traveled too far from home (although I think he went to Hawaii once) and rarely left for very long his beloved farm and his immaculately landscaped surroundings. Yet, the enormity of the contributions of his life is beyond measure.
The loves of Martin’s life seemed simple enough: his God, his beautiful wife, his wonderful family, his church, and his occupation (or much-loved hobby) of farming. In his later years, he developed some additional loves—landscaping (or helping Shirley), flying, and going to the coffee shop.
Martin was generous, well spoken, and (although often unseen) a strong leader. He was a driving force in our church, much like blood flowing through veins, unobserved but a carrier of life. As he had to forgo some tasks because of his battle with the horrific disease hounding him, he replicated himself in others’ lives so that the work would go on.
Will life go on without Martin? Yes, of course, and perhaps we will even experience benefits because of his proximity to God's throne. Is there a great hole inside us, a void at the absence of this precious friend? Yes, of course.
We were honored to have had Martin as a Christian example, as an encourager, and as a beloved friend.
Martin, you will be greatly missed! :(
The loves of Martin’s life seemed simple enough: his God, his beautiful wife, his wonderful family, his church, and his occupation (or much-loved hobby) of farming. In his later years, he developed some additional loves—landscaping (or helping Shirley), flying, and going to the coffee shop.
Martin was generous, well spoken, and (although often unseen) a strong leader. He was a driving force in our church, much like blood flowing through veins, unobserved but a carrier of life. As he had to forgo some tasks because of his battle with the horrific disease hounding him, he replicated himself in others’ lives so that the work would go on.
Will life go on without Martin? Yes, of course, and perhaps we will even experience benefits because of his proximity to God's throne. Is there a great hole inside us, a void at the absence of this precious friend? Yes, of course.
We were honored to have had Martin as a Christian example, as an encourager, and as a beloved friend.
Martin, you will be greatly missed! :(
♫ When I get where I'm going
on the far side of the sky.
The first thing that I'm gonna do
Is spread my wings and fly.
But when I get where I'm going,
and I see my Maker's face.
I'll stand forever in the light,
of His amazing grace...
Yeah when I get where I'm going,
Don't cry for me down here.
By Brad Paisley
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Can't Wait to Try Again
Another sunny day and another cause for celebration (by farmers) as it is another day to attempt to rescue the crops for the harvest. However, sunny skies do not guarantee that the fields are solid enough to drive heavy equipment over them. While on our farm the combine can go through the fields, it's not true for the trucks which haul the grain out of the field.
Still, we are so thankful that the combine has been able to go over the soft earth and harvest the waiting grain. Taking the combine to the edge of the field to transfer grain to the waiting truck may be time consuming, but it is far better than not harvesting at all.
We do have another issue this year—drying the corn once it has been harvested. For the past several years, we have been so blessed as the corn has matured and dried in the fields before harvest.
This year is a different story—a wet spring; late planting; re-planting; lack of warm sunshine needed for growth and maturity; and a wet fall. In a nutshell, it is not an optimum year. After the corn is picked, there must be some method of drying it to a lower moisture content. Drying requires expensive fuel, but otherwise, the selling price the farmer will receive at the grain elevator is considerably reduced. Furthermore, if one tries to store the corn on the farm in bins to sell later, there is a far greater risk that wet corn will spoil, rot, and become worthless.
Are you picking up on the negativity I have described? However, there is a most interesting observable phenomenon. We were at a gathering last night in which most of the men there were farmers. You can guess what the conversations always turned to. One might have expected the atmosphere to be gloomy, sad, and depressing. Not so! Oh, there was a bit of head shaking with a mention that the year was certainly challenging, but the faces were smiling, full of hope and optimism. “So while this year might not be one of our best,” they would indicate, “next year will surely be better and I just can’t wait to try again.”
Do you think we could learn some life lessons from those farmers? How easy it is for each of us to give in to gloom, sadness, and depression when circumstances around us are looking gloomy, sad, and depressing! I believe the lesson learned was “Don’t accept that this is the way things will always be.” The farmers are right! There is another planting, growing, and harvest season right around the corner. Better times are coming.
Genesis 8:22 "As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest. . .will never cease."
Still, we are so thankful that the combine has been able to go over the soft earth and harvest the waiting grain. Taking the combine to the edge of the field to transfer grain to the waiting truck may be time consuming, but it is far better than not harvesting at all.
We do have another issue this year—drying the corn once it has been harvested. For the past several years, we have been so blessed as the corn has matured and dried in the fields before harvest.
This year is a different story—a wet spring; late planting; re-planting; lack of warm sunshine needed for growth and maturity; and a wet fall. In a nutshell, it is not an optimum year. After the corn is picked, there must be some method of drying it to a lower moisture content. Drying requires expensive fuel, but otherwise, the selling price the farmer will receive at the grain elevator is considerably reduced. Furthermore, if one tries to store the corn on the farm in bins to sell later, there is a far greater risk that wet corn will spoil, rot, and become worthless.
Are you picking up on the negativity I have described? However, there is a most interesting observable phenomenon. We were at a gathering last night in which most of the men there were farmers. You can guess what the conversations always turned to. One might have expected the atmosphere to be gloomy, sad, and depressing. Not so! Oh, there was a bit of head shaking with a mention that the year was certainly challenging, but the faces were smiling, full of hope and optimism. “So while this year might not be one of our best,” they would indicate, “next year will surely be better and I just can’t wait to try again.”
Do you think we could learn some life lessons from those farmers? How easy it is for each of us to give in to gloom, sadness, and depression when circumstances around us are looking gloomy, sad, and depressing! I believe the lesson learned was “Don’t accept that this is the way things will always be.” The farmers are right! There is another planting, growing, and harvest season right around the corner. Better times are coming.
Genesis 8:22 "As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest. . .will never cease."
♫ And it won't rain always
The clouds will soon be gone
The sun that they've been hiding
Has been there all along
And it won't rain always
God's promises are true
The sun's gonna’ shine
In His own good time
And He will see you through
Gloria Gaither/Bill Gaither/Aaron Wilburn
Monday, November 2, 2009
Refuge and Strength
Tonight a group of us “girls” celebrate Thanksgiving with a dinner at our monthly meeting. It will be a bittersweet one as our darling friend, who for many years in the past hosted the event, will not be with us. She is the friend I wrote about whose husband is fighting for his life against an onslaught from the kingdom of darkness. While the earth keeps turning during difficult times, I (as will the other girls) find it a challenge to go on with life activities.
I came to understand that scripture when I broke my toe in college. It was the smallest one and very far from my heart and head, but I thought about it all the time until it healed. When a part of the body suffers, every part does indeed suffer with it. I felt so helpless with my agonizing toe—we taped it to the toe next to it on advice from medical people, and let it heal. There appeared to be no other treatment.
Maybe that’s a picture of what we can do for our friends as they face fierce battles—maybe we can be like the toe next to them and give whatever support is needed. I learned from that experience that the supporting toe could not lessen the pain, but was right there to lend strength and carry a part of the load as needed.
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1
“God has combined the members of the body. . .that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it.”
I came to understand that scripture when I broke my toe in college. It was the smallest one and very far from my heart and head, but I thought about it all the time until it healed. When a part of the body suffers, every part does indeed suffer with it. I felt so helpless with my agonizing toe—we taped it to the toe next to it on advice from medical people, and let it heal. There appeared to be no other treatment.
Maybe that’s a picture of what we can do for our friends as they face fierce battles—maybe we can be like the toe next to them and give whatever support is needed. I learned from that experience that the supporting toe could not lessen the pain, but was right there to lend strength and carry a part of the load as needed.
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1
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