tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77666495276550485272024-03-06T06:15:02.718+00:00KoodaigirlSimple thoughts from one of God's girls.Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comBlogger599125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-26598689869405092472022-04-22T11:16:00.015+01:002022-04-22T11:22:43.406+01:00Walking Along Unaware<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXBQZzEQ7tY1nzpddYs0bkh1UhUiM83MzN2IQ-xnKtBxqeeliybC3VFISxhWr5iuSd9palNkNEDSV9q6oHDtDZfjAu0I6mLle4hx2umztc3SwEivVZg_pSVsKkTtWx5ZdMGwOBhJ1WT2PNOWMrmSa6xX-86ezHzysDT0ZqfWu_LTdcz4bj8OyLbhM9/s259/path.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="259" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXBQZzEQ7tY1nzpddYs0bkh1UhUiM83MzN2IQ-xnKtBxqeeliybC3VFISxhWr5iuSd9palNkNEDSV9q6oHDtDZfjAu0I6mLle4hx2umztc3SwEivVZg_pSVsKkTtWx5ZdMGwOBhJ1WT2PNOWMrmSa6xX-86ezHzysDT0ZqfWu_LTdcz4bj8OyLbhM9/s1600/path.jpg" width="259" /></a></div><br /><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Walking along the road, they are talking about all that has happened in the last few days. Jesus catches up to them---but, they don't recognized Him. They are unaware. Pain of all sorts can do that---make us unaware. Habits can do that---making us unaware. Busyness, screens, agendas... all this and more can make us very unaware. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: inherit;">He catches up to them and asks what they are talking about... (Luke 24:13-35)</span></p><p>As you go about your day, walking along in life, ...chatting with your friends, your kids, your spouse. As you think thoughts in your head---re-hearse conversations you have had or will have or will never have.... As you respond to or write posts on social media... </p><p>I hear Him gently asking... <i>Stephanie, what are you discussing? </i></p><p>Think about yourself and your conversations, your internal dialogues today and yesterday. </p><p style="text-align: center;"> ~~~</p><p><span style="font-family: courier;">Can you stop for a minute to hear Jesus asking you to tell Him what you are talking about, thinking about, interacting with? W<i>hat are you discussing? What are you 'talking about'?</i></span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier;">Stop for a minute and tell Him. Explain to Him what you are discussing... what has been happening...</span> </p><p style="text-align: center;">~~~ </p><p>I can imagine these disciples are feeling so so many different things. What might they have been feeling in that moment? ...Anger, sadness, despair, confusion, fear, bewilderment, overwhelmed, traumatized, disappointment...</p><p>They tell Jesus that "we had hoped"... </p><p>I read these words, and I am stopped in my tracks. </p><p><i>Stephanie, what had (have) you hoped...? What were you hoping for... or are you hoping for...? </i></p><p>As I sat with this question, I could feel the disappointment, frustration, despair in my chest as I allowed myself to process my dashed hopes. Old... and new. Feelings are not for judging, they are just for feeling. Emotions are God -given data points that allow us to know ourselves and, if allowed, they are avenues to be closer to the Lord. </p><p style="text-align: center;">~~~</p><p><span style="font-family: courier;">Can you stop for a minute and figure out what you are feeling? What have you been feeling today, yesterday, this week? Have you hoped for something? Are you feeling any frustration? Confusion? Sadness?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier;">Stop and tell Jesus what you are feeling. Is there something you had hoped? Explain to Him your heart, your emotions, your pain. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;">~~~</p><p>Jesus responds to their explanation of their thoughts and emotions with a correction and a call to think rightly. Just to be clear, He doesn't leave them there. He stays with them... and just gently calls them to account for their thoughts and their 'remembering'. In fact, He calls them to remember. He responds to them with Truth... He reminds them of what He has told them before. And, He reminds them of what has been True forever. </p><p style="text-align: center;">~~~</p><p><span style="font-family: courier;">Can you apologized to the Lord for any unbelief and foolishness in your heart or mind that might accompany or come alongside the emotions you feel? Are there untrue things your are thinking and believing? </span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier;">Can you ask Jesus to speak His True Words over you... your thoughts, your feelings... ? </span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier;">Sit for a few long moments and ask the Spirit to speak Words of Truth. <i>What would You say to me, Lord?</i> <i>Speak, Lord, I am listening. </i> Give this time and quiet. </span></p><p style="text-align: center;">~~~</p><p>After Jesus speaks Truth to them... they want more. They want more of Him. More of His presence. They are desperate for more of Jesus. The disciples invite Him to come, be with them, stay with them, eat with them. And, He says yes!</p><p style="text-align: center;">~~~</p><p><span style="font-family: courier;">Can you ask Jesus to join you as you go about your day. As you walk along the road today, as you sit, as you rise, as you eat, play, read, discuss... can you ask Jesus to stay with you? </span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier;">Take a few moments and ask for more of Him. Ask for more of His Spirit. Ask Him to teach you to pray and to abide in His presence, His love, and His Word.</span></p><p style="text-align: center;">~~~</p><p>"Were not our hearts burning within us as he talked with us on the road... It is true! He has risen!" (Luke 24: 32-34) </p><p>As you go about your day, keep your heart aware of it's response to Him... Keep on the look out! </p><p>He is alive and with you always! </p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-72048772886487439042022-02-22T13:42:00.003+00:002022-02-22T13:59:15.821+00:00Wondering About Inheriting the Earth<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgWs_ny7TmFOowT1eQXYu8Jnx9DksbW1wJeQb8X6O9iVjaIfZk5pkevGztzKco_Zk2abx4zYoBCMzmUzKHzmNhy0UtpNFAyU7i2MaAvogpoE1eZ-omn549VAxb-5p2VfEWloSv2BivjzOE6ywPYOMVTWBDnALBMHcqmgCLu0wiSV_5xn9m8py1QH7R5=s1023" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="490" data-original-width="1023" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgWs_ny7TmFOowT1eQXYu8Jnx9DksbW1wJeQb8X6O9iVjaIfZk5pkevGztzKco_Zk2abx4zYoBCMzmUzKHzmNhy0UtpNFAyU7i2MaAvogpoE1eZ-omn549VAxb-5p2VfEWloSv2BivjzOE6ywPYOMVTWBDnALBMHcqmgCLu0wiSV_5xn9m8py1QH7R5=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br />I am wondering. Rambling a bit... <p></p><p>I am pondering... Meekness. </p><p>I am thinking about a kingdom that is upside down. A kingdom that is entirely different to the natural ways of my mind and heart... </p><p>I have been thinking about the climb up that is the descending way. ...the way of our Jesus, gentle and humble of heart. </p><p>I am wondering about a staircase down... </p><p>Thinking about "further up and further in" that takes us downward and lower. ...to think of others as more highly than ourselves. </p><p>I have been praying on the idea of meekness, humility, abiding love that works in and through... and outward. </p><p>What might it mean or look like if we, God's beloved, lived in and out of His love? What might it look like if we were aware of our soul-poverty... hungry and thirsty for His righteousness? ...living as peacemakers? What if I didn't judge... what if you didn't condemn? What if you gave freely... I forgave always... What if we loved mercy, as our Father loves mercy. (Luke 6:20-42)</p><p>I am well aware that this meekness, humility, and abiding love is exactly that... <i>abiding</i>. ...meaning it doesn't come <i>from</i> me; but, in and through me, <i>from Him</i>. His love. He blesses in order for us to be a blessing. He fills us with good fruit... makes us good-trees... to feed on and be fed on. Receiving His love, living in it, soaking it in... and then giving freely as I have been given. </p><p>I believe the measure by which I know His love to, for and in me... is the measure to which I can even begin to live it outward toward others. Known. Felt. Divine. Spirit-led. </p><p>But sometimes there is resistance in me to surrender and receive this love. Why do I resist? Why would I rebel against love? Joy? Peace? Patience? Kindness? ...what in us fights this? </p><p>The resistance and even rebellion that is in sometimes in my heart to give-way to God and to others... to forgive-first... to step towards... to offer warmth and love. Is it fear that makes me push a bit harder, to stay silent longer, to hold that grudge, to be right, to not forgive, to get justice for myself, to hold to my rights.... ? Is it pride? Or simply folly? </p><p>Forgive this ramble... </p><p>I am just wondering. </p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3Q--ThJ4Bg">Humble Heart by Jess Ray </a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/a3Q--ThJ4Bg" width="320" youtube-src-id="a3Q--ThJ4Bg"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-10546497859352653332022-02-17T17:03:00.003+00:002022-02-17T17:03:30.774+00:00Fix it, Lord. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhcw1oPQvggQWoIgEmIjL6lSws4LCXA5rYs5sg-Po9ZlgQ4sk7213jhIs9iCz8q7yI9hG0676AbuXW607t3kxDLIYcN1B5OOla8Sj1KMwC16tJ7CLH-ZgQmjpFJJi_vOrWY2EENcA-0wY7vLiEMhSLSL5w7-tsvFlk4xW5tYoPKFEVZB11MlXSFUSsZ=s1024" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="709" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhcw1oPQvggQWoIgEmIjL6lSws4LCXA5rYs5sg-Po9ZlgQ4sk7213jhIs9iCz8q7yI9hG0676AbuXW607t3kxDLIYcN1B5OOla8Sj1KMwC16tJ7CLH-ZgQmjpFJJi_vOrWY2EENcA-0wY7vLiEMhSLSL5w7-tsvFlk4xW5tYoPKFEVZB11MlXSFUSsZ=s320" width="222" /></a></div>A wedding is a place to laugh, to mingle, and to relax. ...unless something goes terribly wrong! I remember being at my sister's wedding and walking into the reception hall, only 5 minutes before all the other guests, to find her wedding cake in three layered pieces in a pile on the ground. What do you do in that moment!? This is a serious problem to fix and we have five minutes.<div><div><br /></div><div>This must have been what Mary was feeling at the wedding feast in Cana. (John 2:1-12) She saw a big problem and needed it fixed... right now! </div><div><br /></div><div>...so she did the very best thing she knew to do. She asked her son. She asked the son that she trusted. Even if he wasn't the Maker of the world, she may have asked him in any case. But, she also knew who He was. She had treasured in her heart the words spoken about him for 30 plus years. She knew and had believed as He began to gather his disciples around Him. </div><div><br /></div><div>Mary did the best things she could think of... she asked Jesus to fix it. </div><div><br /></div><div>I love Mary's boldness here. What beautiful faith she placed in Jesus!! </div><div>...faith in His character as a son and as a person. </div><div>...faith to know He would respond to her. </div><div>...faith that He could and would handle it. </div><div><br /></div><div>She didn't come to Him with a solution. She just told Him the problem. Then, she watched, waited and told others to do what He said. </div><div><br /></div><div>The other day I saw a big problem. It was a very practical problem that I had trouble seeing any answer for. ...I didn't even know 'how' to pray. I had no solution. I just knew it was a problem! It was 2 in the morning, as I shifted in my bed, that the thought came... <i>Father, would you please fix this. Here's the problem. Please have Your way and fix it for me. </i></div><div><br /></div><div>...and He did. In fact, in the next few days following, God fixed the situation in a way I would never have even imagined or asked. He, essentially, turned water into wine for me. </div><div><br /></div><div>I doubt Mary imagined Jesus turning water to wine to fix her problem. Who would have even guessed that would have been His answer!? She didn't know the solution. She just came and trusted her son to solve the problem. Fix it, Jesus. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>Lord, make me more like Mary was... may I place my faith in You the solver. May I have increased faith in Your character... God, You as my Father, Jesus---You as a brother, Spirit---You as my counselor.... May I know that You hear me. You will respond,. Help me watch and wait as you fix the problems in Your way and Your time! </i></div></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-60761425173450267632022-02-10T13:50:00.001+00:002022-02-11T09:54:13.618+00:00Okay, Lord<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjxSyp9WJYy7oBd_buft2A6Nlwbfe28V2SWCPLIUkSaAF705ZbnS8oNKDZkRI2w4F-HpOVa7GcKowGa1j_zAcV9z0g-uU00DTNtHxvqRHVlZrpnandJgkW6-kXKFRE54-RGDec80zzjTnBs06YplfHSbF5VvHG0fPmNfy6bHq2gxRXYYvBqOlZr-q34=s960" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjxSyp9WJYy7oBd_buft2A6Nlwbfe28V2SWCPLIUkSaAF705ZbnS8oNKDZkRI2w4F-HpOVa7GcKowGa1j_zAcV9z0g-uU00DTNtHxvqRHVlZrpnandJgkW6-kXKFRE54-RGDec80zzjTnBs06YplfHSbF5VvHG0fPmNfy6bHq2gxRXYYvBqOlZr-q34=s320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><u>Okay, Lord.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here we go!<o:p></o:p></u></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">There are just days that start off with difficulty after a
long night of tossing and turning, aren’t there?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sleep evades and rest is nowhere to be
found.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you ever have these
nights?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Last night was one of those
nights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I took the advice of a friend
and didn’t look at the clock.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead,
as I tossed, I prayed, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lord, is there
anyone that you would have me pray for?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As,</i> I turned, I prayed, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Father,
is there anything you want to tell me or show me? </i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I guess it is going to be one of those
nights…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Okay, Lord.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here we go!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Faces came to mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Names flooded in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I asked.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I prayed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I held them before the Lord.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So…
sleep wasn’t the gift He gave last night, but He did give His rest to my heart
and I did talk to Him about a great many things.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">It was nearly morning, after a short ‘night-nap’, when I
woke with a piece of Scripture flooding into my mind…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ah, I thought, something He must want to tell
me!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I meditated on the Word
and said, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Thank you, Lord.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">When the alarm finally sounded, it was tug and a pull to
yank myself out of bed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you ever feel
you just have to coerce yourself out of bed?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Okay, Lord!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here we go! Please sustain me.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could feel His whisper deep within--- His
promise to be with me always.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tired and chilled
by the cold dark, I could feel in my body the roughness of the night’s toss and
turn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One step in front of the other, I
slowly walked out the aches and stumbled tentatively downstairs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">After a quick drink of water, as is my habit and daily
routine, I sat in my living room chair and opened up the PrayAsYouGo app on my
phone… the call to prayer, the Scripture being read, the music, the questions
and the reflection are all a great way to open my heart and waken my mind to
His Presence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lord, I’m tired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Help me to hear
what You are saying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Open my eyes and
make me awake to Your Presence today,</i> I wrote in my journal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">After the app finished, I picked up my Bible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I found the red tassel showing where I left
off yesterday and continued reading in Luke 6.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jesus tells His disciples to give and to forgive… reminding them that
His Father is a merciful Father.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are
told to be like Him …merciful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>With the
reading of the Word, I am struck with such thanksgiving---energizing and
heart-lifting worship--- <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lord, thank you
for loving us!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank you for Your mercy
and the gift of Jesus!</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wrote in
my journal, <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lord, only in you will I live
this giving, forgiving, merciful life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Please fill me with the power of Your Spirit to be like You, my good and
merciful Father!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i>As I continue to
read, there was conviction in my heart. I read Christ’s words to ‘not condemn and
not judge’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Readily my sin of
judgment---of myself and of others---came to mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lord,
forgive me.</i> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Make me more like You.
Make me merciful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">After my quiet moments with God, I got up to put my shoes
on… heading out to the garage-gym to use an exercise video.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Okay,
Lord, here we go!</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Layered up against
the cold, I could feel and see the steam of my breath, I turned on the video
and started to ‘walk’ following along with the lady on the TV.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was speaking of Jesus as we walked and
she encourages us to pray… and I do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I feel a bit heart-heavy with the many needs of those I love.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I walk, I pray.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the Lord brings a face, or a problem to
mind, I pray and ask God to fix, help, and be near.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Father,
please help.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I stretch after the
work-out, one particular person weighs heavy this morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My heart is pained for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They don’t know Jesus and they are running
hard into destructive life choices that will bring much pain and sorrow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Oh Lord
have mercy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Spirit of the Living God
reveal Jesus to them!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lord, please open
their eyes and rescue them from darkness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>May they be released from these prisons of sin that keep them from full
life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Oh Lord, please help, please fix
this, please be near.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">As I finished up my exercise, I can feel energy and
sustenance in my body, and I am grateful!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Thank you, Lord.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can feel the hunger rise up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I go inside to prepare my breakfast, I
pray for my kids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lord,
please give them a hunger and a thirst for righteousness and Your truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Help them the choose You today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">This day began with the night of tossing and turning… and in
this, He led me and strengthened me to pray and remain aware of His Presence. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thus far, we have had so much conversation….and,
it’s only 9 am!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">This day is Yours,
Lord!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Have Your way in and through
me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Teach me to pray.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What might the day bring?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Okay, Lord! Here we go!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></i></p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-75317219416668897062021-11-24T11:42:00.002+00:002021-11-24T11:42:20.536+00:00Ancient Blogger<p><span style="color: #444444; font-family: georgia; font-size: x-small;">....warning... this is a very long blog post.... copy, paste, and print it out? Get a cuppa and take a load off... and give it some time..... That said, please do read it. These are words spoken to us from long ago... and ancient friend to speak truth to our 'now' hearts. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqR3rrWiDQe499VehO3_TO8X0uOCA_c2hOtLK2VgWnDb6UFxYtW94jyoZk68Jx5-2R1SmEqs4bcAZkqG_rjG0OtQiv6bIBncFpTti3aszZulY3XFGa0LTMlu6mF3Yqzi3XQsDh5FpQsc/s818/julianofnorwichcathedralsculpturealamy-20160921092311064_web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="818" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghqR3rrWiDQe499VehO3_TO8X0uOCA_c2hOtLK2VgWnDb6UFxYtW94jyoZk68Jx5-2R1SmEqs4bcAZkqG_rjG0OtQiv6bIBncFpTti3aszZulY3XFGa0LTMlu6mF3Yqzi3XQsDh5FpQsc/s320/julianofnorwichcathedralsculpturealamy-20160921092311064_web.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="color: #444444; font-family: georgia; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><p></p><p>As humans it is difficult for us to see beyond ourselves... We are generally, each one of us, self-centered. Truly. In psychological terms this can be referred to as the 'spotlight effect'. </p><p>I wonder if this is why God had commanded us and so clearly told us--- so often--- to 'remember' and be aware of our forefathers, our history, and the reality of the community at large (to be aware of others!) </p><p>It is difficult to see beyond ourselves. It is also difficult for us to see beyond our time. We know what we know now and find it challenging to reach back and understand the way of thinking, the values, the beliefs and the behaviours of another time. 100 year old philosophy, medicine, science, and even agriculture is hard to grasp for our minds---in fact, it often doesn't match what we know today, at all. 100 year ago thinking often looks silly, sometimes very wrong and definitely very different to our modern minds. </p><p>700 hundred years ago is almost impossible. Right? </p><p>But,...then we get a glimpse... just a peek into the hearts and minds of our forefathers and we stand amazed. What if ... what if, what I believe now... what if she believed it too? 700 years ago. And, what if that which is true has always been true and will always remain true, for ever. </p><p>...come age, come season, come nations falling and rising... what was, is, and <i>is to come</i> remains. Truth remains and has always been true. </p><p>I have had this sense as I have plunged and journeyed slowly through, a second time, the writings of Julian of Norwich*. She wrote in the late 1300s... one of the first known females to write in English. (yes, even before Margery Kempe... who is currently 'known' for being the 'first') </p><p>...so... instead of recommending you read Julian of Norwich (well, because it is not a small task)... I have gathered my favourite quotes from her Long Text (my Cliff notes for you). </p><p>Her writings remind me of my type of blogs. Funny, right? But, Julian is telling of what God has shown her (her 'shewings') and she is constantly sharing God's Word and the Truth that He is whispering into her heart and mind. She does this in short sections to encourage her readers. well,...that is what I have attempted to do here on Koodaigirl. Let's just say that Julian is an ancient blogger---an ancient Gods-girl! </p><p>Her words are so so so good, and so very sweet. …What God showed her, such a gift to our time. </p><p>Can I suggest you print this out and/or you read a few quotes at a time... take it in slowly? Sit with the words. Remember that this was not written in our time, from our vantage point, within our 'value' system, and our culture. Let our sister's words amaze you. Enjoy the fact that it feels so familiar. </p><p>As you read, let your mind drift to Scriptures that come to mind, hymns that rise up, and sermons or books you read recently. She is writing words of truth that have instructed us from the beginning... Truth is always truth... and it will always stand the test of time. </p><p><b>"Our Lord Almighty, all wisdom, all love---just as He has truly made everything that is, so He truly does and brings about all that is done."</b></p><p><b>"We are sustained securely in love, by the goodness of God, in misery as much as in joy."</b></p><p><b>"God is to us everything that is good, tenderly enfolding us; everything that is made is as nothing, compared with Almighty God; man has no rest until he counts himself and everything as nothing for the love of God."</b></p><p><b>"God is the maker, the carer, the lover. Everything has its being through the love of God."</b></p><p><b>"God wishes to be known and is pleased that we should rest in him." </b></p><p><b>"God, of your goodness, give me yourself. You are enough for me, and I cannot ask for anything less. If I do ask for anything less, I shall be in want. In you alone, I have everything."</b></p><p><b>"Our souls must learn the wisdom of clinging to the goodness of God. For truly our lover, God, wants our souls to cling to him with all their might." </b></p><p><b>"We can contemplate with endless wonder at this high, surpassing, inestimable love that God Almighty has for us in His goodness."</b></p><p><b>"He has made everything that is made for love and by that same love everything is sustained."</b></p><p><b>"Continual seeking of God pleases Him very much, the soul moved by the Holy Spirit seeks, suffers, and trusts."</b></p><p><b>"The blessed Trinity is always completely satisfied with all His works. He says, 'See I am God, I am in everything. I do everything. I never lift my hand from my work, nor ever shall, without end. I guide everything to the end to which I ordained it. How shall anything be amiss?'"</b></p><p><b>"Christ Jesus' passion is the devil's defeat. Everything that God allows him to do turns into joy for us and to shame and misery for him (the devil)."</b></p><p><b>"The marvellous melody of endless love keeps us safe in sorrow and in joy. To choose only Jesus for my heaven in both happiness and sorrow. Everything seems insignificant to him in comparison to His love." </b></p><p><b>"For it is God's will that we take true delight with Him in our salvation. He wants us to be greatly comforted and strengthened, and through His grace He wishes our souls to be happily occupied in this, for we are His bliss; He delights in us with out end and so shall we in Him, through His grace." </b></p><p><b>"Jesus says, 'Look how I loved you!' as if He said, 'Look and see that I loved you so much before I died for you that I was willing to die for you.'</b></p><p><b>"To bring to His bliss each person He loves, He lays on them something painful which is no defect in His sight on account of which they are rejected. He does this to prevent damage of pomp and vain glory." </b></p><p><b>"Contemplate the glorious atonement, for this atonement is incomparably more pleasing to the blessed Godhead and more glorious to man kind, then Adam's sin ever was harmful." </b></p><p><b>"I can make all things well. I will make all things well. I shall make all things well; and you will see for yourself that all manner of things shall be well." </b></p><p><b>"Everything helpful for us to know and understand, our Lord will most kindly show us, and what it is through the teachings of the Church. He takes great pleasure in all men and women who strongly, humbly and willingly receive preaching and teaching in the Church." </b></p><p><b>"God is always fully satisfied with Himself and with all His works"</b></p><p><b>"He wants us to love Him, to take delight in Him and to endlessly rejoice in Him."</b></p><p><b>"Let me be your whole love, my precious child. Attend to me---I am enough for you. Rejoice in your Saviour and in your salvation."</b></p><p><b>"The Lord revealed the completeness of love in which we stand in His sight--yes, that He loves us as much now while we are here as He will do when we are there, before His blessed face. Our difficulty is because of failure of love on our part."</b></p><p><b>"It is a supreme act of friendship of our Lord that He looks after us so tenderly while we are in our sins; and furthermore, he touches us so very inwardly and shows us our sin by the sweet light of mercy and grace."</b></p><p><b>"Pray with all your heart, even if it seems to give you no pleasure, because it is helpful, even though you don't feel it. Pray with all your heart, even when you feel nothing, though you see nothing. For in dryness and in barrenness, in sickness and in weakness, then your prayers are most please to God."</b></p><p><b>"God teaches us to pray and firmly trust we shall have what we pray for; because He regards us with love and wants us to partner in His good work."</b></p><p><b>"It is proper for us, both through nature and through grace, to long and desire with all our might to know ourselves wand in this full knowledge we shall truly and clearly know our God in fullness of endless joy." </b></p><p><b>"Man is changeable in this life and falls into sin through frailty and being overcome. During this time he is in turmoil, sorrow and misery and the cause is his blindness---because He does not see God, for if He saw God truly and continually, He would have no harmful feelings nor any sort of promptings the the cravings that lead to sin."</b></p><p><b>"The lack in not in God, but it is on our part; for through sin and wretchedness we have in us a wretched and continual resistance to peace and to love."</b></p><p><b>"Mercy works sweetly through love by grace, mingled with abundant pity because mercy works for our safekeeping. Love never looks away from us nor does the operation of mercy ever cease."</b></p><p><b>"Without love we cannot live. Our life is grounded and rooted in love and without it, we perish."</b></p><p><b>"We are not blessedly safe and in peace until we have our full contentment with God, His love, His works, His judgements, with ourselves, and with fellow Christians. God's goodness does this in us. God is our true peace."</b></p><p><b>"While we are in this life, we have a marvellous mixture of both happiness and sorrow. We have in us our risen Jesus and the misery of Adam's falling." </b></p><p><b>"We ought to rejoice greatly that God dwells in our souls and can rejoice much more greatly that our souls dwell in God. Our soul is made the be the dwelling place of God!"</b></p><p><b>"Our soul sits in God in true rest and our soul stands in God in sure strength and our soul is rooted in God's endless love." </b></p><p><b>"We cannot come to knowledge of our soul until we first have knowledge of God, our creator to whom it is united. For full understanding, we must long to know our own soul wisely and truly. Through grace and by the Spirit we shall know them both."</b></p><p><b>"As truly as God is our father, so truly is God our mother. Jesus is our true mother, feeding us not with milk but with Himself, opening His side to us and claiming all our love."</b></p><p><b>"Jesus wants us to have the nature of a child, always hurrying to him in our need."</b></p><p><b>"We shall know that in spite of our grievous sin, his love for us remains intact, and we were never of any less value in His sight. Strong and marvellous is that love which cannot, nor will not be broken by our transgressions." </b></p><p><b>"He wants us to behave like a child, for when it is upset or frightened it runs quickly to it's mother for help as fast as he can, so Jesus wants us to run saying, 'My gracious mother, Jesus, take pity on me. I have made myself dirty and unlike you. I neither can nor may put this right except with Your very own help and grace.'"</b></p><p><b>"As long as we are mixed up with any aspect of sin, we shall never see clearly the blessed face of our Lord."</b></p><p><b>"It is for us to have three kinds of knowledge; the first is to know our Lord God, the second and third is to know ourselves--- what we are through Him and His grace and what we are in regards to our sin and weakness." </b></p><p><b>"Flee hastily from all that is not good and fall on our Lord's breast like a child on it's mother's bosom. With our whole heart and mind, knowing our feebleness, knowing God's goodness and love, seeking salvation in Him alone."</b></p><p><b>"It is God's will that we recognize sin, and pray earnestly and labour willingly and seek humbly for instructions so that we do not fall blindly into it; and if we fall, that we rise quickly, for to turn from God for any length of time through sin is the greatest pain that any soul may have."</b></p><p><b>"Whether we are unclean or pure, His love for us is the same. Whether in joy or in sorrow, He never wants us to flee from Him."</b></p><p><b>"Everything that is contrary to love and peace is from the devil. The enemy looses many times over from our rising from our falls through God's love and our humility. Acknowledge your wretchedness, then flee to your Lord. Let us fly to our Lord and we shall be comforted and made clean." </b></p><p><b>"Our Lord in his mercy shows us our sin and weakness by the sweet, gracious light of Himself---the light of His grace and mercy."</b></p><p><b>"He steadfastly waits for us and with unchanging demeanour, for He wants us to turn to Him and be united to Him in love as He is to us."</b></p><p><b>"When we have fallen through frailty or blindness, our kind Lord touches us, moves us and calls us; He doesn't want us to remain like this, nor does he want us to be greatly pre-occupied with self-accusation or too full of misery, but instead to swiftly focus our thoughts on Him. For He waits for us and hastens to have us with Him, for we are His joy and delight. He is our salve and our life."</b></p><p>Julian ends her book with these words which brought a song to my heart... </p><p><b>"To those who wish to be His faithful lovers. These are revelations of the unutterable love of God in Jesus Christ. Revealed to a dear lover of His and are for all his dear friends and lovers whose hearts like hers do flame in the love our our dearest Jesus." </b></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>*Julian (the name she took at a nun) lived 1343-1416. Most of her life she lived as an <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anchorite">Anchorite</a> attached to a church in Norwich, England. She lived smack-dab in the midst of the most intense times when the Black Plague hit England. She certainly knew deep personal and communal suffering. For those historians who have said that Julian was a 'universalist' or didn't mention hell or sin in her writings... this is simply not true (100% false, in fact). I have read her works twice. She mentions all basic concepts of sin, hell, and the distinct need for salvation through God's only Son, Jesus. Although, I do not agree with every single word she has written... her basic theology and heart of faith matches my faith and orthodox, historical Christianity beautifully. I am convinced, she is most certainly my sister in Christ and waiting in that great cloud of witnesses, urging us onward! </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-66667809305831936232021-09-15T11:56:00.004+01:002021-09-16T19:56:52.370+01:00Are you Shady?<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNME1MH63Vu57cggBWYtKel1HT3MZM2dcNumkq1wnQWgA9pu39XfdAm4FDeKUm02GAcWKntg95XpDpgZxLnlmjbKXrQcXhRy2IUbbjxsVL4ONaDoM8a_1Lwsr_u83orMq54Ts0PxTiHdI/s275/treeshade.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNME1MH63Vu57cggBWYtKel1HT3MZM2dcNumkq1wnQWgA9pu39XfdAm4FDeKUm02GAcWKntg95XpDpgZxLnlmjbKXrQcXhRy2IUbbjxsVL4ONaDoM8a_1Lwsr_u83orMq54Ts0PxTiHdI/s0/treeshade.jpg" width="275" /></a></div><br />Learning to garden has been a necessity in this lovely green place I live. It isn't, in all honesty, something I particularly enjoy; but, it has certainly been a fertile ground for heart lessons from the Lord. <p></p><p>Living things are complex and growing them... tending them... being a good gardener... is a big and challenging job! I often think of the Lord and His kind hand as I cut, hack, or 'dead-head' any plant or flower. My cutting and trimming and hacking is good for plant... I only do it for it's good. I want it to grow and flourish and produce more fruit. Oh! The lessons for the heart here... </p><p>I was reading this morning in Mark 4:30-32. Jesus is making every effort to teach and communicate the beauty of His kingdom to His hearers. In this case, He choses to use gardening. He describes the kingdom of God---the gospel, the 'good, good news', the Spirit Truth---as being like a tiny seed that grows into a hardy and life-giving tree. This is what we are offered in His kingdom. Into our smallness, comes a small 'truth' and then life grows. Abundant growth! We grow. His truth grows in us and makes us (re-creates in us) something hardy and life giving. </p><p>I was struck afresh today by verse 32, where the Kingdom-plant is described as: 1) a place of rest for birds and 2) a place of shade. And I had this wonderful thought, "Am I shady?" Prayerfully, I began asking that God would continue to grow His truth in me and make my branches strong to be a place of rest. I long to be a place of comfort and shade... for all who would come near. </p><p>Are you shady? </p><p>I was listening to a wonderful podcast session by <a href="https://curtthompsonmd.com/">Curt Thompson (MD)</a> recently. (I do highly recommend his books and his teaching.) Dr. Thompson explains that, as a psychiatrist, he ---yes indeed---offers people an 'answer' and help to problems. But, <i>actually,</i> much more importantly, he offers <i>himself</i>. He offers his presence. Those coming to him for comfort and shade are coming to be seen, heard, and known. The greatest gift he can give is to show up, let them sit awhile, rest and be shaded. Presence...the very things we need from each other and ultimately from God. </p><p>God does this for His people and always has. In Exodus 3:7, He says is straight out, "I have seen... I have heard... and I am concerned..." One of His names, in fact, is EL ROI... the God who sees. </p><p>In 1 Peter 3:12, we are told that "God's eye is on us and that He is <i>attentive</i> to our prayers..." Our God is a loving Father that sees and hears. He is offering Himself to you today. </p><p>God is shady. God is hardy. His presence and His truth is a place of rest and comfort.</p><p>And, how wonderful is this!? In His kingdom, <i>with Him</i>, we can be shady and comforting and a place of rest for others. </p><p>I can be shady and hardy. <i>Oh, Lord, make it so! </i></p><p><i>~</i></p><p><i>Mark 4:30-32 </i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Again he said, “What shall we say the kingdom of God is
like, or what parable shall we use to describe it? 31 It is like a mustard
seed, which is the smallest of all seeds on earth. 32 Yet when planted, it
grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that
the birds can perch in its shade.”</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-9162632662098751982021-09-07T12:57:00.000+01:002021-09-07T12:57:16.788+01:00I Want to See Like Fred<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio8WIxtQ0cHi0lm97mnahbWkclatXktc0ogIeEgQQUgMaYFvMirydmKQKmoHWoMy9ksItHJ7Z7-wWRmjlPF_QNOiv491TPOu19UeblKsv4Ap0Hdgjj0dP_cK2iDPGJDFD3m1uA5pm_P0I/s1024/Mr+rogers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="662" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio8WIxtQ0cHi0lm97mnahbWkclatXktc0ogIeEgQQUgMaYFvMirydmKQKmoHWoMy9ksItHJ7Z7-wWRmjlPF_QNOiv491TPOu19UeblKsv4Ap0Hdgjj0dP_cK2iDPGJDFD3m1uA5pm_P0I/s320/Mr+rogers.jpg" width="207" /></a></div><p>It really makes a difference what you choose to look for or <i>how</i> you see... doesn't it? </p><p>I just finished the delightful and poignant film about Fred Rogers' life, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood. Apart from the fact that I probably watched every episode of this amazing show from age five years old until I was 10, (and, yes, it brought up so so many 'feels' for me) the life and way of Mr. Rogers inspired me. And, I am using that word very specifically. To inspire: spur on, motivate, quicken. It comes from the two words Latin 'into' and 'breath'. As I watched the film, I felt God breath into me fresh thoughts and fill me with more of His heart. </p><p>I walked away thinking a lot about perspective. Mr. Rogers just seemed to see life, time, circumstances, people and the world in a very distinct way. He saw differently. Yes, I was inspired. His wife is quick to point out, so it is told, that Fred was not a perfect person and that his daily Scripture reading and other habits kept him grounded. </p><p>I walked away from this film wanting to see the world like Mr. Rogers. I want to see like Fred. </p><p>Interestingly, in God's timing, my Scripture reading this morning was in Luke 6:6-11. In this story, Jesus encounters a man with a withered hand. He asks the man to stand up in the crowd... displaying to that little corner of the world... to show His love, compassion, healing miracle. </p><p>It says that the Pharisees came into the scene LOOKING for a way to catch him doing wrong. They were expecting offense. </p><p>It really makes a difference what you choose to look for... what you expect... </p><p>Jesus heals the shrivelled hand. He heals a bent, broken, withered hand and makes it whole. He does this right before their eyes...in real time! Incredible stuff, right?! Stop a moment and imagine what that might have looked like! What stunned awe you might feel as you watch this happen before your eyes. I stand amazed with the thought! </p><p>The Pharisees, though, have a very different reaction. They see as they choose to see... their eyes bent to see him doing 'wrong'. And, they react with rage. Rage! They see what they expected to see, didn't they? They see offense in his actions. They respond with disgust, vehemence and their response is not inspiration---but execution. "The begin to discuss with each other what they might do to Jesus". </p><p>Jesus does good. They see bad. Jesus heals and re-creates beauty. They respond with a desire to destroy him. </p><p>It really matters how we see. It matters what you look for... </p><p>Fred Rogers, in his 50 years of ministry on television (yes, he was literally ordained and sent to do this work...read about it!) Mr. Rogers saw every person as beautiful, worthy of love, complicated, and worth his full attention. </p><p>Yes, indeed, I want to see like Fred. </p><p><br /></p><p>Please do yourself a big favour and take the time to watch this... <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSbYQz3rluM">The Best of Mr. Rogers</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mSbYQz3rluM" width="320" youtube-src-id="mSbYQz3rluM"></iframe></div><br /><p>If you'd like to read 45 quotes from this man of God <a href="https://www.inc.com/geoffrey-james/45-quotes-from-mr-rogers-that-we-all-need-today.html">click here</a>. </p><p>~~~</p><p><span class="text Luke-6-6" id="en-NIV-25153"><span class="versenum" style="display: inline; font-family: inherit; line-height: normal; position: relative; top: auto; vertical-align: text-top;">Luke 6: 6 </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">On another Sabbath he went into the synagogue and was teaching, and a man was there whose right hand was </span>shrivelled<span style="font-family: inherit;">.</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span class="text Luke-6-7" id="en-NIV-25154" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="versenum" style="display: inline; line-height: normal; position: relative; top: auto; vertical-align: text-top;">7 </span>The Pharisees and the teachers of the law were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal on the Sabbath.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span class="text Luke-6-8" id="en-NIV-25155" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="versenum" style="display: inline; line-height: normal; position: relative; top: auto; vertical-align: text-top;">8 </span>But Jesus knew what they were thinking and said to the man with the shrivelled hand, <span class="woj">“Get up and stand in front of everyone.”</span> So he got up and stood there. </span><span class="versenum" style="display: inline; font-family: inherit; line-height: normal; position: relative; top: auto; vertical-align: text-top;">9 </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Then Jesus said to them,</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span class="woj" style="font-family: inherit;">“I ask you, which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to destroy it?” </span><span class="text Luke-6-10" id="en-NIV-25157" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="versenum" style="display: inline; line-height: normal; position: relative; top: auto; vertical-align: text-top;">10 </span>He looked around at them all, and then said to the man, <span class="woj">“Stretch out your hand.”</span> He did so, and his hand was completely restored.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span class="text Luke-6-11" id="en-NIV-25158" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="versenum" style="display: inline; line-height: normal; position: relative; top: auto; vertical-align: text-top;">11 </span>But the Pharisees and the teachers of the law were furious and began to discuss with one another what they might do to Jesus.</span></p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-48491765466146960002021-09-05T12:28:00.005+01:002021-09-05T12:33:30.140+01:00Jesus Sighs <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeCe04Tk8aF_MEIpy5-Dbjex1mwXDJni3Owl9vA7u9YcLoltVH1-RebFH4nqLQruuDSTgv3skHHWFl53cZsauuFEB_-07dWGrwLGcsCUhvTl29X65b59T21stuSgwsaingJ-BtCm-_a7A/s1284/jesus.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1284" data-original-width="850" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeCe04Tk8aF_MEIpy5-Dbjex1mwXDJni3Owl9vA7u9YcLoltVH1-RebFH4nqLQruuDSTgv3skHHWFl53cZsauuFEB_-07dWGrwLGcsCUhvTl29X65b59T21stuSgwsaingJ-BtCm-_a7A/w133-h200/jesus.jpg" width="133" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;">They bring him to you and beg. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Heal him, they pant and plea!</p><p style="text-align: center;">To a quiet place you lead him aside and then... </p><p style="text-align: center;">You sigh--- deep groan--- a heavy sigh. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Why did you sigh, my Lord? </p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Are you as frustrated and sad as I am with this broken world? </p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">You stand with this man---so near. </p><p style="text-align: center;">You touch him and draw close. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Your very spit lingers on his bent and broken tongue. </p><p style="text-align: center;">You look up to heaven, with a knowing look, you and your Father agree.</p><p style="text-align: center;">This is not as you made us to be. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Are you as frustrated and sad as I am with this bent world?</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">With you, the Father sighs and repents as in the days of Noah. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Together you made ears to hear the bird song. </p><p style="text-align: center;">With joy you 'all made eyes to see deep colour and the wisp of clouds.</p><p style="text-align: center;">In that quiet place you sigh---a grief and a groan. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Man of Sorrows, you are well acquainted with grief. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Yes, you are as frustrated and sad as I am with this bent world! </p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">With a sigh, and a touch, and a word. </p><p style="text-align: center;">You whisper to the man--not only to his mouth--- but, to the man!</p><p style="text-align: center;">Be open, you command and his heart receives. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Ears are now open to hear the singing of the birds. </p><p style="text-align: center;">His mouth now able to sing along with them in praise to you!</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">You are ever at work in this sad, frustrating and broken world, Lord. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">I bring myself to you and beg you, Jesus. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Heal me, I plea! …with you, I sigh. </p><p style="text-align: center;">In these quiet places, please touch and draw near. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Shift in me these bent and broken places. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Open my ear to hear truth and my mouth to speak light. </p><p style="text-align: center;"> </p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">"...the tongue of the speechless will sing for joy!" (Isaiah 35:6)</span></p><p style="text-align: center;">(poem based on Mark 7:31-37) </p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Then Jesus left the vicinity of Tyre and went through
Sidon, down to the Sea of Galilee and into the region of the Decapolis. There some people brought to him a man who was deaf and could hardly talk, and
they begged Jesus to place his hand on him.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">After he took him aside, away from the crowd, Jesus put
his fingers into the man’s ears. Then he spit and touched the man’s tongue. He looked up to heaven and with a deep sigh said to him, “Ephphatha!” (which
means “Be opened!”). At this, the man’s ears were opened, his tongue was
loosened and he began to speak plainly.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="text-align: center;">
</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Jesus commanded them not to tell anyone. But the more he
did so, the more they kept talking about it. People were overwhelmed with
amazement. “He has done everything well,” they said. “He even makes the deaf
hear and the mute speak.</span><o:p></o:p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-18509961454647791742021-09-01T16:35:00.003+01:002021-09-01T16:35:57.123+01:00Forgiveness <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixa2raXFulen7HMVPqUDDoMZC0uLP48QhSfkNXy_Opm-r6cwoLtCIBzm6mEW5nsJnWMFSP6ZlmfJZl6B0kWv_-EC_ywZbm2tflFBdOVl3ctfq9nrr3pe3XWkFx2dP_McHr-HVsrLOe1lA/s1092/memorial-soldier-war-memorial-favor-preview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1092" data-original-width="728" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixa2raXFulen7HMVPqUDDoMZC0uLP48QhSfkNXy_Opm-r6cwoLtCIBzm6mEW5nsJnWMFSP6ZlmfJZl6B0kWv_-EC_ywZbm2tflFBdOVl3ctfq9nrr3pe3XWkFx2dP_McHr-HVsrLOe1lA/w133-h200/memorial-soldier-war-memorial-favor-preview.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>We are indeed fragile beings, aren't we? <div><br /></div><div>We are hurt so very easily. Our bodies break. Our minds are being bent. Our emotions shift like shadows. </div><div><br /></div><div>Oh! How very vulnerable are our minds, our bodies and our hearts! As the news unfolds, the tides of anger rises, anxiety rules and chaos seems to be the reigning voice of our times, my heart feels like it is breaking here and there and everywhere. </div><div><br /></div><div>From where I sit, I believe, this is the time for forgiveness and the Prince of peace to reign! </div><div><br /></div><div>In the last two weeks, I have heard three distinct stories of forgiveness. In each beautiful case, forgiveness has brought such freedom! ...A lifting felt physically ...a straightening of a bent mind... and a calming of the shifting flood of emotions. The antidote is forgiveness. </div><div><br /></div><div>We all need it. I need to be forgiven. Every. single. day. </div><div>And, I need to forgive. Every. single. day. </div><div><br /></div><div>I was once asked to sum up "Marriage Advice" in one word. My word: forgiveness. I would sum up all relationship advice with this one word: forgiveness. </div><div><br /></div><div>In short, forgiveness is His amazing love <i>in me</i> and His love working it's way <i>through me</i> to another person. </div><div><br /></div><div>So... today, here is my offering to you... a spiritual exercise I wrote a while back. I have used it myself often. I know others that have benefitted. ...in fact, this practice (not the sheet of paper, but the activity), is how I generally live my every day life. </div><div><br /></div><div>...forgiving the grocery store clerk who was rude. </div><div>...forgiving the friend who forgot to invite me.</div><div>...forgiving the stranger who made that comment. </div><div>...forgiving my husband for not doing what he said he would.</div><div>...forgiving the one who should have been 'there' for me and isn't. </div><div>...forgiving ... forgiving... the horrific offenses, the big, the bad, the ugly, and the small offenses. </div><div><br /></div><div>May this practice bless your fragile being as it is protected by the Prince of Peace and His amazing forgiveness. (FEEL FREE TO COPY AND PASTE AND PRINT IT OUT). Or, send me an email and I'll send it to you as a PDF, happily. </div><div><br /></div><div>---------------------------------</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Spiritual Exercise:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Forgive”<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Set aside at least 40 minutes
for uninterrupted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sit in a quiet with
your Bible, a piece of paper, and a pen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Start your time with a quiet
prayer of surrender to God’s leading.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Ask His Spirit to guide and lead you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Open your Bible and read Matthew
18: 21-35.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Read it two times through
slowly. <o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Close your eyes and ask the
Lord, “Please show me who I need to forgive.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What comes to mind?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Simply write
down the name(s) that come to mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
there are more than one name, write down each name and leave space around
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Later, you will be writing something
else around and near the name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Sit for a significant amount of
time and prayerfully consider<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"> if</b> you
can willingly forgive these names.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
you are struggling with the whole list (more than one person), then focus on one
at a time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ask God for help: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lord Jesus, by Your Spirit, help me to
forgive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> Lord, forgive through me.</span><o:p></o:p></i></span></li><li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">When you feel ready to forgive
at least one person on your list, then take some time and write down--- next to
the name--- WHAT they did to you---as simple and succinct as you can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(i.e. they ‘said ____’, they ‘did ____’, they
‘didn’t do’ ____…)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do this with each
person you are ready to forgive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Now take a prayerful minute,
ask the Lord to help you know <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">how this
action made you feel.</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ask the Lord to
show you WHY it hurt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How did their
action hurt you or why was it wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Write
it down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(i.e.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“it made me feel unloved”, “I felt
vulnerable”, “I was afraid”).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>[it can be very helpful to use a feeling list to help, just google "feeling words list"]<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></li><li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">After you
have written the name, what they have done and how it impacted your heart, then
pick up your paper and hold it out in front of you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Show it to the Lord.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As you are holding it out, say (out loud if
possible), <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lord, do you see this? Father, You see what they have done and how it has hurt me.</i></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></i><span lang="EN-US">Hold it there
and ask again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Sit with this for a moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></li><li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Can you give this to God and
lay it down?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you can, literally, lay
it down… on the floor, or the table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Physically let go of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pray.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may say something like: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lord,
I give this to you. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is yours to deal
with… I had it over to you, Lord.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
choose to forgive and offer grace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you can pray this out loud, it can be very
helpful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>[If you can do this with
someone you trust as a witness that can be helpful, too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They can say:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I witness your forgiveness”]<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></li><li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">After some time, pick up the
paper and, somewhere on the sheet, write out “Forgive one another, as God in
Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></li><li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Tell God that you forgive each
one and what you are forgiving them for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>i.e. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lord, I forgive ____ for
saying _____, OR, I forgive _____ for making me feel insignificant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></i></span></li><li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On each name, write “FORGIVEN” in big writing
across the name.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></li><li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Take a few minutes and pray
“blessing” for each of these you have forgiven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>i.e. “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Father, bless her with
peace.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Father, I ask she would know
you.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Bless him with repentance.”</i><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></li><li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">Now, choose what you will do
with this paper---some feel the need to keep it as a reminder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some feel the need to throw it out, to rip it
up, or to burn it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What do you need to
do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></li><li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">As you close your time, ask the
Lord to help you to know His love and forgiveness for you and to give you grace
to walk in this release.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Tell Him you
intend to hand it to him again and again, if it comes up <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>in your mind/heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></li><li><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US">To strangle out any remaining
anger toward a person, <i>whenever </i>you think of them, speak a prayer of blessing
for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Blessing is the way Jesus gave
us to walk in freedom from hate/bitterness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> In the beginning they may come to mind A LOT, you will be blessing them many times a day! But, it will lessen over time--- and you will feel free. </span></span></li></ul><i style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></i><!--[if !supportLists]--><p></p>
<p class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-US">Name<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></u><span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>What they did<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span></u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How
it made me feel<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></u><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><u>Blessings for them</u><o:p></o:p></span></i></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><br /><p></p></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-81284635936567018932021-06-17T10:58:00.005+01:002021-06-17T11:11:38.352+01:00Stumbling Words to Express <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLqdVVeRsKYoQO-BCudG_FukDLu6hX3NTuP51aHfCEy_kWABL-jRfV3WJ7W8WrRnk11WYioLG5dSCrKQE-Nh0nvYKfHm2f3sKSsi52nj_H6b1EqPTP9gMTwUOm1-fM0cOwYNLdjzQhmNA/s1280/1280px-Stipula_fountain_pen.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="854" data-original-width="1280" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLqdVVeRsKYoQO-BCudG_FukDLu6hX3NTuP51aHfCEy_kWABL-jRfV3WJ7W8WrRnk11WYioLG5dSCrKQE-Nh0nvYKfHm2f3sKSsi52nj_H6b1EqPTP9gMTwUOm1-fM0cOwYNLdjzQhmNA/w200-h134/1280px-Stipula_fountain_pen.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; background-color: white; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-family: Roboto, RobotoDraft, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"></p><p class="MsoNormal">I grasp for words to describe the feelings. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I wander in my mind and wonder at how to express. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Knowing that with every word comes misunderstanding,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and yet...<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I want to speak and show forth. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">So intensely sad and disappointed and yet so calmed. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Perplexed and confused and yet keenly aware of being known
and seen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Anger and frustration at my fingertips, yet an offering of
belly-laughter alongside. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Will I wake up from this nightmare?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or tonight know the peace of dreamless sleep?
<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">My soul still hasn't caught up with my body. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Are we really still here, suffering with this reality? <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Knowing that every day holds the potential for better or
bad. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">This world falling apart at the seams, tearing apart into
fragments. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I grasp for words to communicate the Presence. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The depths of peace and hope and the undergirding Truth. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The Word that whispers sweet breath that I can almost smell
and taste.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I want to speak of the doubt and the drought and the faith
and the filling.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I need to speak forth, to be on display. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Me, us... him,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>we...
we are jars of cracking clay.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Glory poured in and itching to pour out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">This glorious procession... me a member of the great band of
witness...<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i>we are....</i><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Weary and wonderful.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Beautiful and broken.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Downcast and lifted up. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Confused and cared for....<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I grasp for words to express.<o:p></o:p></p><br /><p></p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-54017497630876455162021-06-09T11:46:00.003+01:002021-06-12T12:01:10.340+01:00Just As He Said<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi14cguW3gE8jrMAgStiavn9knvLK1ejdtakolrdZHDlyCiMcukw7waGl-9ksZhT8w8m2o996Yh-eQrJkphYopJ0aTOQYGUEZCBY7F0jJ3RQcrWUpAxRzC0MZOOqIA0bdnPX89hVnIENtI/s1280/bread-1281053_1280.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="857" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi14cguW3gE8jrMAgStiavn9knvLK1ejdtakolrdZHDlyCiMcukw7waGl-9ksZhT8w8m2o996Yh-eQrJkphYopJ0aTOQYGUEZCBY7F0jJ3RQcrWUpAxRzC0MZOOqIA0bdnPX89hVnIENtI/s320/bread-1281053_1280.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>His Word is such a gift to me! Like daily meals, I take it in and expect it will nourish and feed. </p><p>Some days the meal is just that---simple bread. ...with thanksgiving, I read/eat, swallow and pray, and move about my day as it feeds me, with me hardly aware of it's inward working. </p><p>Then, other days, it just tastes so so good. His Word touches my mind and heart in a way that is 'bang' or 'wow'... so similar to that tasty bite of a really good burrito or a ripe strawberry. </p><p>Then there are extra special days, when His Word jumps off the page and pierces me with precision and light. …like those "wow" meals that stick with you... A meal you might think about the next day, or even a meal you might recommend to others, will definitely cook again, and talk about at a dinner party or share with a friend. </p><p>Today these words jumped off the page and sweetened my tongue: "...they found things just as He said they would be" (Luke 22:13)</p><p>Just as He said. </p><p>I had just finished journaling the phrase "the work of God is to believe [Jesus]" (John 6:29) and was struck again with the idea that we all, EVERY believer has the same job. We all have the very same work in common. Every day we need to believe Jesus. That is our job. That and "love Him with all our hearts, minds, souls and strength". These are the main work points on our job description. </p><p>…doctor, lawyer, brick layer, waitress, professor, cop, politician, artist, and teacher... we ALL have one clear job: love God and believe Jesus. </p><p>The disciples believed Jesus when He told them that the exact place to celebrate the Passover meal would be given to them (Read Luke 22:7-13) and they found it 'just as He said it would be". We can believe His words, follow His direction and He will come through. </p><p>Following this lovely, delicious moment of His word I began thinking of the things He has told me... told us. I began prayerfully wondering if I was believing Jesus today.....</p><p style="text-align: center;">I am going away now and am preparing a place for you and will come again... (John 14:13)</p><p style="text-align: center;">If you abide in me, you will bear much fruit. (John 15:8)</p><p style="text-align: center;">Peace, I give you. My peace I give to you. (John 14:27)</p><p style="text-align: center;">I will be with you always, even until the end. (Matthew 28:20)</p><p style="text-align: center;">I will make my home within you. (John 14:23)</p><p style="text-align: center;">You will have pain in this world (John 16:33)</p><p>Jesus has promised these things and so many more. And, the full revelation of Scripture offers an overflowing bread-basket of abundant promises to the followers of God. We have a feast of truth in which we can trust, believe and find our hope. </p><p><i>He will come back. He leaves me peace. </i><i>I will have pain in this world. </i><i>He abides in me and will be with me to the end. He has overcome the world and will make all things new and right. I will be hated by the world. I can not be separated from His love. He began a good work in me and will bring it to completion. He knows all things and works all things together for my good and His glory. In the midst of pain, fire, storm, or flood, He is with me and I will not drown or burn. </i></p><p>Today, I remember and I take You at Your Word, Lord Jesus. </p><p>I will find things just as You said it would be. </p><p>Just as You said. </p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-5863137256016016072021-06-05T14:20:00.000+01:002021-06-05T14:20:06.659+01:00Lament Response<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9c7psrGpSUQz-7-cXr2Wcbyl39Os_TAuTBqmD13ANWme7KAGi33kfVL7WGf3ofgS6uybk0NF9mx3Ggw2eNHu59HUjlc8n8vA3jjnfhMXQtmdUT3ZDee6nJHuS47BGT8RmwEyOtp-17JI/s275/storm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9c7psrGpSUQz-7-cXr2Wcbyl39Os_TAuTBqmD13ANWme7KAGi33kfVL7WGf3ofgS6uybk0NF9mx3Ggw2eNHu59HUjlc8n8vA3jjnfhMXQtmdUT3ZDee6nJHuS47BGT8RmwEyOtp-17JI/w320-h213/storm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div>It was deeply, dark-clouded and a fiercely windy day. While walking, no... stomping..., my way up the green, muddy hill, I asked the Lord, "Are you <i>really </i>with me?" </div><div><br /></div><div>This day was just another day in a string of hard days... my husband lay ill in bed with Covid. He still suffered and we were waiting, praying, hoping for sickness to leave. Days on days... weeks getting lost into months. This illness and it's horrible touch lived with us every moment of every day. <div><br /></div><div>I had ventured out into the rough weather to get some fresh air and stomp out my prayers, my grief, my frustration, and my pain. Muddied, wet, tired and emotional, I had the passing thought: I am with you always... </div><div><div><br /></div><div><i>With you always, Stephanie...</i></div><div><br /></div><div>With irritation and despairing tone, face upturned to the dark clouds, I shot back... "Are you <i>really</i> with me? Really!? Right here, now? Are you really with me?" </div><div><br /></div><div>Lament is not my forte. It is not something I normally do... nor have felt comfortable doing most of my Christian life. My personality and my upbringing have not encouraged emotional outbursts, to be sure. But, it seemed lately, that without lament... with out this ever-increasing honesty with my Jesus... I would run dry. It seemed necessary and right and very good. In these days, lament had become my doorway, my window, ...my deep well which accessed living water. I was thirsty and God was teaching me to tell Him how very thirsty I was. Oh! How very thirsty I am! </div><div><br /></div><div>So, stomping up the hill, my face lifted, my honest response to the whispered Scripture, "I am with you always"... was tear filled retort. Really, Lord?! Are you really with me? </div><div><br /></div><div>Like a flash, I had His response. Instantaneously, I heard one clear word quietly whispered to my heart... <i>Within.</i> </div><div><br /></div><div><i>I am within you, Stephanie. </i> </div><div><br /></div><div>Like lightening, the flash of truth filled me with the ever living water and it was another piece of manna. Food for my days, for the weeks to come... for the days that would turn into months. </div><div>Whatever would come, I felt my courage rise. My faith was filled with His Presence and I knew... </div><div><br /></div><div><i>I am always within you, Stephanie. </i> </div><div><br /></div><div>So much closer than<i> with.</i>.. even closer than walking <i>alongside</i>... My Jesus is <i>within</i> me. His Spirit lives and abides IN me. Closer than my very breath. </div><div><br /></div><div>Paul tells us in Ephesians that Jesus makes "his home within us". Jesus, Himself, tells us His Spirit abides with us and within us... (John 14) I believe we spend too much time looking up and out for Him... seeking Him outside of ourselves... seeking Him in the skies (where He also dwells, just to be clear!) We need to remember that He is within. </div><div><br /></div><div>Jesus said in John 16:5-16: "I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. In a
little while the world will see Me no more, but you will see Me. Because I
live, you also will live. On that day you will know that I am in My Father, and
you are in Me, and I am in you….If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word. My
Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him."</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">His home is within us. And, all fullness of life and joy and peace lives in Him. If we are lacking, He is not. He will give to those who lack. Do you need wisdom? Ask Him... He is full of it and He lives in you. Fullness of wisdom abides in you... abide in Him! Do you need patience? or love? Or do you need joy today? Ask Him, He is full of it... and He lives in you. </p></div><div>I walked home that day... that dark, pounding day with a full heart. I was full of Him and His truth. He responded to my lament. His loved welled up and filled my heart and mind with more of Himself. </div><div><br /></div><div>The difficult days continued onward... days turned into weeks. Weeks fell away to months... In fact, as I write this, we still live with the reality of this horrible illness. We've stopped counting time passed. But still ...and still... that piece of manna ---within----feeds me. </div><div><br /></div><div>Just to be clear, I don't hear from His Spirit these type of "words" often--- this is why I call it manna. Or, better yet, I should call it a feast. He feeds me manna from the Bible and I collect what I can for each day. His Scripture is my daily bread. These special moments--- these flash moments ---are like a feast day. </div><div><br /></div><div>Even when I don't feel it... I can remember the taste of the feast. I know it to be true. </div><div><br /></div><div>He is within me always, even until the end of the age. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-61519350118816222162021-06-03T18:05:00.002+01:002021-06-03T18:05:18.676+01:00My Ballast<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ZxzznhvATt2XgljSXoKr4PFZFkqyr9MgIDDw5Lo9_kiwVKA5i2Mut-tker1R-R4T1nXyTPIe8cbbfWB44rAuMeIvdAKVQlYKlZP_rdSsY-dTyOjsK_YWWrT9F_J736-6az7n_j0xSZ0/s1120/Screenshot_20210603-162357_Instagram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1120" data-original-width="1080" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9ZxzznhvATt2XgljSXoKr4PFZFkqyr9MgIDDw5Lo9_kiwVKA5i2Mut-tker1R-R4T1nXyTPIe8cbbfWB44rAuMeIvdAKVQlYKlZP_rdSsY-dTyOjsK_YWWrT9F_J736-6az7n_j0xSZ0/w193-h200/Screenshot_20210603-162357_Instagram.jpg" width="193" /></a></div>After a whirlwind, messy, upsetting dream filled with too many faces, too many needs, so many things to do and all while needing a shower and in my pyjamas for all to see... dreams are a funny things... I woke up in a rough state of mind. <div><br /></div><div>Heart pounding, heavy laden and a hot mess... I made my way down to my 'quiet time' space in the early morning hours. As usual, I started my time by opening and playing "<a href="https://pray-as-you-go.org/">Pray as You Go</a>". Barely listening, the cob webs of faces and mouths that needed feeding began to clear away from my mind... The dream waves began to slowly subside. But, still, I began to think about the worries----the 'shoulds' and 'musts' and 'oughts'--- that had been pulling at me the past days. Obviously, this dream was a good picture of the tugging of needs and my inability and struggle to get it all done. </div><div><br /></div><div>As my mind was tossed about by the litany of concern, I could feel my irritation and frustration mounting. 'Just leave me alone' was the feeling (is there one word for this 'feeling')! I could feel my heart lament and the complaining beginning to rise. <i>Lord, I can't make everyone happy! Father, I can't hold it all or feed them all or make them all right.</i> Maybe like my dear compatriot Elijah, I was basically saying... "I've had enough, Lord. I am all alone here and these expectations just wanna kill me!" (big-time paraphrase from 1 Kings 19) </div><div><br /></div><div>Psalms of complaint and lament were welling up in my heart and waves were beginning to crash again </div><div><br /></div><div>...and then... in the background, the lovely voice on the Pray as You Go (oh! yeah... it had been playing the whole time while I ignored it) says, "If there is something that is a concern or a weight, maybe you want to ask the Holy Spirit to give you a different perspective".</div><div><br /></div><div>A different perspective. </div><div><br /></div><div><i>Stephanie, can you ask Me for My perspective? </i></div><div><br /></div><div><i>Yes, Lord, I want Your perspective... Please show me what is true and how to see this differently. </i></div><div><br /></div><div>Instantly, as I prayed, I could feel a slight shift. One bite of manna and I was fed. He answered and I was seeing just a bit differently. It was like light shaft opened over my heart and brain and there was more balance and calm. I was able to see the 'shoulds' that had been annoying me in a totally different light. I began to see differently. It was today's miracle! </div><div><br /></div><div>It was like my boat was thrown off kilter and the Holy Spirit was the ballast that brought me stability and centered me. When I asked, He balanced me. What a gift. (Ballast is material that is used to provide stability to a
boat. Insufficiently ballasted boats
tend to tip or heel excessively in high winds.)</div><div><br /></div><div>On the heels of seeing a bit more clearly, I had two thoughts... </div><div> </div><div>First, how does anyone live life without the gift of God's Spirit bringing truth to their minds and hearts? <i>What a gift, Lord</i>! </div><div><br /></div><div>And, then the second thought, ...oh! oh, man! I live my life all the time without the gift of God's Spirit bringing truth! How often do I bounce around my day in a hot mess and heavy laden? <i>Lord, I need to do this even more!</i></div><div><br /></div><div><i>Lord, help me to ask You for help more often. Father, help me to abide in Your love, Your Presence and the gift of Your truth. Spirit of God, thank you that you long to 'right me' and be my ballast. I want to ask You more. Teach me to pray! </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div>He offers us Himself as our ballast. He offers Himself as my moment-by-moment answer to any whirlwind or hot mess I find myself in---awake or asleep. </div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-74639318230637963802021-05-25T11:43:00.005+01:002021-05-25T11:56:42.717+01:00Buzzin Brain<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqliTPvWWRTXFGd9xz3HmYMNDuZlot7cbYuhP6cDvjoLHXDsy0Xbo5h956_EFLtRk_zfGDcULWuCKG1QAlCoUnOyz39iJHmmOffLUQfDl-rMWYT_dnixw9s7ja4r1m9OIuos-UPUi14JA/s1000/4579520419_5897bf9f8f_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="671" data-original-width="1000" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqliTPvWWRTXFGd9xz3HmYMNDuZlot7cbYuhP6cDvjoLHXDsy0Xbo5h956_EFLtRk_zfGDcULWuCKG1QAlCoUnOyz39iJHmmOffLUQfDl-rMWYT_dnixw9s7ja4r1m9OIuos-UPUi14JA/w200-h134/4579520419_5897bf9f8f_b.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Does your brain ever buzz with busy thoughts and details? </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My brain has been on super-charge this week... as my youngest made his decision to fly further afield and pursue his master's degree in a different country. Exciting! So exciting. Yes, and a bit maddening... the details, O the details! </div><p>He doesn't need our help, of course. But, we want to contribute and provide companionship in this big move! So... this mamma-heart considers everything from transportation to toilet paper, his housing and our hotel, transportation and taxes, beds and banking, and... well, a host of other things that need to happen as we go. </p><p>With buzzing comes worry. Or, with me, it does. There is very little calm when my brain is a buzzin'. </p><p>This morning, coming to God and His word, I was touched so gently by a passage in Matthew. In Matthew 14 Jesus miraculously feeds 5,000 men. In Matthew 15, the disciples witness Him feed 4,000 men. Then in Matthew 16: 5-12, the disciples think Jesus is upset with them because they forgot to bring bread with them on their journey. Jesus says, </p><blockquote><p>"<span class="text Matt-16-8" face="system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial" id="en-NIV-23681" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><span class="woj">You of little faith, why are you talking among yourselves about having no bread?</span></span><span face="system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text Matt-16-9" face="system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial" id="en-NIV-23682" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><span class="woj">Do you still not understand? Don’t you remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered?</span></span><span face="system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text Matt-16-10" face="system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial" id="en-NIV-23683" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><span class="woj">Or the seven loaves for the four thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered?</span></span><span face="system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"> </span><span class="text Matt-16-11" face="system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, Arial" id="en-NIV-23684" style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px;"><span class="woj">How is it you don’t understand that I was not talking to you about bread?"</span></span></p></blockquote><p>In short, ...Jesus says... How are we really still talking about bread!? He reminds them that they have just seen two massive miracles where 9,000 men (plus!) were given enough bread AND left-overs. </p><p>...for Jesus bread is really, really not a problem! </p><p>My heart was so stirred by this passage... And, I sensed a loving rebuke. A tender hearted... You-of-little-faith-moment. <i>Stephanie, are we really still talking and worrying about bread? Do you still not understand? Just tell me what you need and let's move on. This is not hard for Me! </i></p><p>How often God tells His people "Do not forget!"... and O! how often we forget! Right!? </p><p>My life has been filled with an abundance of transportation and toilet paper miracles. He has provided for me over and over again. Houses, hotels, refrigerators and rental cars. In fact, in one of my very first posts here on Koodaigirl... <a href="https://hisgirlalone.blogspot.com/2009/04/microwaves-on-thousand-hills.html">Microwaves on a Thousand Hills</a> I wrote about the abundance of sheets---bed sheets and cookie sheets and the microwave that just showed up at our door. Oh! How easily I forget. I am only slightly embarrassed that this was 2009 and here I am, learning the same lessons. </p><p>So, today, when the details come lashing against my peace-filled brain... I choose to remember. In fact, you might just overhear me walking around the house saying, "I have seen Him feed 9,000 mouths!" to remind myself. </p><p>We can choose to remember. </p><p>I choose to remember today and "forget not all His benefits" (Psalm 103). These moments of remember may just keep this buzzin' brain at bay. </p><p><br /></p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-40917910431420204132021-03-04T11:20:00.008+00:002021-06-07T22:01:22.247+01:00Hope Springs <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg37sf8Py2CqY-9rH0nMqsLDFdkLyeDXMUmelMNtFuAwTwYESgkNkFFZP2K4tuIEFcV0AjYEraHuYlNqapUmsu3kmIgPS_svWxs7nePwqEy2GNI69k8uqnyMeeSdknxcbBXiKXVRoqFpVg/s4032/20210302_110603.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg37sf8Py2CqY-9rH0nMqsLDFdkLyeDXMUmelMNtFuAwTwYESgkNkFFZP2K4tuIEFcV0AjYEraHuYlNqapUmsu3kmIgPS_svWxs7nePwqEy2GNI69k8uqnyMeeSdknxcbBXiKXVRoqFpVg/w113-h200/20210302_110603.jpg" width="113" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><u>Hope Springs</u> </p><p style="text-align: center;">I look outside and I wonder if I have lost them all</p><p style="text-align: center;">Vines, plants, bushes tended and laboured over with love, </p><p style="text-align: center;">Life seems utterly sucked out of them. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Wind battered, frost bit, brittle they look back at me with pale face. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Look again, my child. </p><p style="text-align: center;">I hear the Gardener's quiet whisper. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Do you see the green? </p><p style="text-align: center;">I lean close. I search and look with my pale face and aging eyes. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Just barely. Ever so slight, I see the smallest green bud appearing.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Amidst the woody, lost-looking bits, I see life. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Can these dry bones live? He whispers</p><p style="text-align: center;">My heart yields, 'Only You know, Lord!?' </p><p style="text-align: center;">Later, as if a reminder, the song wafts through my speakers. </p><p style="text-align: center;">This <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H6W-P820f4c">soul-singer</a> speaks of his furrowed, torn-open-heart. </p><p style="text-align: center;">My heart nods an emphathic "yes" in recognition. </p><p style="text-align: center;">I, too, feel a bit battered and worn. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Ripped holes makes space for seed, he sings. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Will what looks so-very-dead rise again? </p><p style="text-align: center;">Do you see the green? I hear the whisper, again. </p><p style="text-align: center;">I look and see this smallest spark of life and I will hope. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">"Our Lord has written the promise of resurrection, not in books alone, </p><p style="text-align: center;">but in every leaf in springtime"</p><p style="text-align: center;">~ Martin Luther</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lIiKIR6mQOE" width="320" youtube-src-id="lIiKIR6mQOE"></iframe></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H6W-P820f4c">Andrew Peterson's The Sower's Song </a></p><p><br /></p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-75521820448516557452021-02-19T15:32:00.012+00:002021-02-19T15:40:08.701+00:00How are you, you ask...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjggTg0LfAXLtMhRNQKZoU735q8tvbhzdNh0Ka-Dqb5RM6J-6VnDbRiAQ-dHO8ltQWCZlc9vXBrMzPWZ5t2BeQiHJd0FfbALbBlfcwJdiiOM6TD5ItTyE5PlMmv_Zs1gywZWyf0m7z0mbo/s1024/3036499041_acb719c4a4_b.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="1024" height="135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjggTg0LfAXLtMhRNQKZoU735q8tvbhzdNh0Ka-Dqb5RM6J-6VnDbRiAQ-dHO8ltQWCZlc9vXBrMzPWZ5t2BeQiHJd0FfbALbBlfcwJdiiOM6TD5ItTyE5PlMmv_Zs1gywZWyf0m7z0mbo/w200-h135/3036499041_acb719c4a4_b.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"><u>How Are you, you ask...</u></p><p style="text-align: center;">There are swirls deep inside</p><p style="text-align: center;">Emotions lash and tug </p><p style="text-align: center;">Lifting and lowering </p><p style="text-align: center;">I don't understand.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Maybe understanding isn't the point. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Like the wind today, from which way does it blow? </p><p style="text-align: center;">It propels leaves up and brings trees down</p><p style="text-align: center;">I don't understand. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Maybe understanding isn't the point. </p><p style="text-align: center;">How do you catch a cloud and pin it down? </p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-82710987562610425622021-02-13T11:45:00.004+00:002021-02-13T12:03:35.224+00:00I Protest<p>I was listening to Sara Groves, "Why It Matters", this morning... </p><p>And... I had an epiphany. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pj_Fe4ME34s" width="320" youtube-src-id="pj_Fe4ME34s"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pj_Fe4ME34s">Why it Matters</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Funny word... epiphany. Sounds so BIG or so WOW. But, actually, it usually comes very quietly and very softly. It's an awakening. It's simple awareness. While listening to this ode to creativity written by Sara Groves twenty years ago, I became keenly aware of why I blog, why I paint, ...maybe why I live my every single day. I guess that is big-awareness!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I wrote <a href="https://hisgirlalone.blogspot.com/2011/08/why-i-blog-hungry-to-connect.html">Why I Blog</a> in August, 2011... ten years ago. In that post, I explore my need and desire to connect and be known. This was why I started blogging. This need and hunger to be known is still in me, of course. But, I am realising that through the years, my motivation and reason for blogging is different now. Or, at least, 'added to'. Yes, I want you to know me and I need a place to process what God is doing in my life. But, NOW... I find that my blog is a bit of a protest. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Yep, a place of protest. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In my small way, in this very small place... I protest. I protest the darkness and hopelessness that seems to invade our every day lives with songs and sounds of death, destruction, and theft. I long to speak life, creation, and generosity. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I protest the idea that Christians are stupid/silly, ignorant, bigoted, and hypocritical. I long to speak of wisdom and truth. I want to write about the true things that invade my life. I long to speak of where I see the truest things--- beauty, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness and sacrificial love--- invading the world all around me. I protest with my desire to be authentic and vulnerable here. I want to share struggle and pain and triumph and ambiguity--- all of which are the reality of most of the Christians I know. I don't have all the answers at all! I have a journey to walk. I protest with my offerings of my own journey into being loved and loving others with Christ's unfailing, unbounded love. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Am I sometimes very stupid/silly? Ignorant? Bigoted? and Hypocritical… yes, of course! We all are. You are, too. But, you and I are SO SO much more than that. And, certainly that is not even close to ALL that I am. So, I protest to these labels over me and over the thousands of Christians world wide--- spread far across cultures, denominations, generations, and this beautiful globe. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I protest. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I protest the idea that music, art, and writing must always be perfect like a photo, or always moody and dark, or only ever filled with happiness. I protest! I want to write about the real things. My blog is full of questions, wrestling, dark frustrations, light moments, and bold truths that I still struggle to fully live out. Our lives, ...our real lives... are so multi coloured! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I protest that small things don't matter. I protest that only things that ----cost much, or are 'liked much', or are 'celebrated' or are held up and noted--- that only these things matter. This small place. This very small life. My life. And, yours... they matter. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I believe it matters that when I smiled yesterday on my walk... making every effort to pass by each individual, look them in the eyes, and smile. I believe that THAT matters. It certainly mattered to me. And, I believe that it matters to them. Their small lives. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Because, I know that each life is small. ...even the celebrated ones. But, each life, each and every single life matters! I believe that each one of us was created on purpose inside our mother's womb. You. Me. Every. One. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, I protest here. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Like Sara Groves sings--- thank you Sara for again singing my soul---- "tell me of the beauty of the beauty... speak to me until I understand... like a rampart for the soul... like a single cup of water... why it matters!" </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I want to be known, yes. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But, I also want to speak of the beauty of the beauty. I want to offer you, my friends, my sister, my brother, ...and those I do not know that read here... I offer you this single cup of water: </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">God is so very, very good. He is powerful and knows all. God is faithful. His love endures forever. He is love. He acts in love. His very nature is love. His justice is love. His justice is right and righteous. He is active and alive. He offers peace. He gives us all we need for joy. He speaks and wants to speak to His people. He is making and continues to make... </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">May these words be a cup of water for your soul today. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Let us, my friends... add to the beauty and offer a small cup of water to each other!! </div>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-49641252602947106412021-02-11T13:51:00.003+00:002021-02-11T13:58:19.258+00:00Little by Little <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_mibypDa8Z7rwiirRnGaQxZy71nWAzngtaI-vXslY6kv8GupSdIixWB1O2Z1jjJwtewxGAuHx9rh0WH54C5uBER53nzg7gRRdyrv3UYHPTVhE4XXFJte0yqDWBp6UPTBDV6S0F-QzvLM/s834/crying+angel.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="834" data-original-width="548" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_mibypDa8Z7rwiirRnGaQxZy71nWAzngtaI-vXslY6kv8GupSdIixWB1O2Z1jjJwtewxGAuHx9rh0WH54C5uBER53nzg7gRRdyrv3UYHPTVhE4XXFJte0yqDWBp6UPTBDV6S0F-QzvLM/w131-h200/crying+angel.jpg" width="131" /></a></div>There are still so many things in my life that are simply not right. Things I think... things I do... ways--- deep ways--- I walk through life. Wrong thoughts. Wrong actions. Wrong motivations. <p></p><p>Just simply wrong. </p><p>I feel grieved by this, of course. As I look at myself I see with sober judgment the ways that I fall short. </p><p>I woke up last week angry with myself. The accusations--- much of it accurate, in truth--- were heavy and strong. It is hard to put words to the feelings raging in the night. Rage, I guess, is a good word. </p><p>Feeling this anger, I decided to remain curious about it. (It is good when the counsel I give to others comes back to me. ...'doctor heal thyself, comes to mind!') </p><p>Prayerfully, I asked the Lord what was under the anger. Using the good-ol tool, the Anger Iceberg, I ask the Lord to show me what was underneath my anger toward myself. I have used this tool many times in my anger toward others. But, this was the first time I had used it with myself. It was SO helpful. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZTs06VETAAerTECWSwQpleU1LnhFNVe1r7pFu3cewjU8otTrKeGnY_HOMpCdXGN83pNY4mUx1iBWHwyUU2KeN8rFhD6zYR3YEDngUboGbgpzzoHeTmC-6ycxvdOlPS3ru2EucHyCR-Q8/s729/anger.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="729" data-original-width="564" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZTs06VETAAerTECWSwQpleU1LnhFNVe1r7pFu3cewjU8otTrKeGnY_HOMpCdXGN83pNY4mUx1iBWHwyUU2KeN8rFhD6zYR3YEDngUboGbgpzzoHeTmC-6ycxvdOlPS3ru2EucHyCR-Q8/w155-h200/anger.jpg" width="155" /></a></div><p>The list was long! Words like frustration, disappointment, disgust were right there. As were embarrassed, guilt, and exhausted. But, so were fear and worry... </p><p>As I sat with these words and saw what was underneath--- I could feel the intense anger subsiding. </p><p>I prayed through each word and stayed curious about each feeling as the "data point" that it is.... (feelings are simply data points for what is going on in our souls). </p><p>I told the Lord that, honestly, the anger felt powerful. ...helpful, even. ...productive. If I am angry at myself, then I will not think or do these things. Right?! Oh! that 'parenting by shame and anger' that always backfires! </p><p>I heard a still small voice in response to this honesty... <i>Stephanie, love is more powerful. </i></p><p><i>Love is more powerful! </i></p><p>After the feelings of anger were quieted... and I could deal with the real substance underneath. I asked God if He shared any of these feelings towards me. Each word--- one by one. ...that was a very revealing prayer conversation. </p><p>He brought to mind many scriptures... many thoughts and I continue to pray for His thoughts over me. He reminded me of His Hesed love --- unfailing and unconditional. Powerful love. Love that brings healing and repentance and grace. He reminded me of His wisdom, He knows the beginning from the end--- His continued work in my life to bring me to completion (an 'in process' reality).</p><p>And, then, He reminded me of Exodus 23:29,30.... where He tells the Israelites that He is giving the land to them 'little by little'. </p><p class="MsoNormal"></p><blockquote>I will not drive [the enemies] out before you in a single
year; otherwise the land would become desolate and wild animals would multiply
against you. Little by little I will drive them out ahead of you, until you
become fruitful and possess the land.</blockquote><o:p></o:p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal">In His wisdom, He knew that His people were not ready to take the whole land--- He knew that they were only 'big enough' to take possession of the land in parts. This verse was like a balm to my soul. </p><p class="MsoNormal">These 'enemies'--- my wrong thinking, my struggles, my frustrations, my imperfections, my sin--- are being driven from 'my land' little by little. In the Lord's kindness and love, He knows just how much of my 'land' (my very self... my soul) I can possess. I am just not quite big enough in Him, in His love, in His power to have conquered it all yet! Every day, I am growing... but... I am just not there yet. </p><p class="MsoNormal">My prayer at that point shifted dramatically... thanking Him for the ground and lands we have won! Thanking Him for the years and years of victory in my life. Asking Him for more ground--- more soul-land--- that would be His!! May He make <a href="https://hisgirlalone.blogspot.com/2012/12/give-me-fat-heart.html">me fat with Him</a>... big, grand, fruitful, and able to 'possess' in His name and by His Spirit the whole of myself. </p><p class="MsoNormal">In Genesis and in Exodus, God promised that the land was theirs--- Already theirs--- by His powerful hand and covenant. The land was theirs and yet, <b>still needed 'taking'</b>. God Almighty is on-the-job of possessing all the land-o-Stephanie. At the cross, Jesus has conquered this land and I am His. Conquered and 'His'... <i>and </i>currently being conquered. May He have His way! </p><p class="MsoNormal"><i>Yes, Lord, there are still so many things in my life that are wrong. Little by little, Lord, destroy these ways of thinking, these attitudes and actions! I want to be wholly Yours--- fully alive and fully free in You. </i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFyH7DHckBZyt9jRiu87_hDqfIW6g2aRIn8fd_VnOZLr2cRN41WjEln8ocl3htFYv2k3M1PKEzuK6Tt6gB1nkX6Gjpuko-UIkX9hkqJ_LpnkdlFVtvTZ0CUkgv50gWyR9WkB6SpHaWe8/s2048/Barley_field-2007-02-22%2528large%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1076" data-original-width="2048" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqFyH7DHckBZyt9jRiu87_hDqfIW6g2aRIn8fd_VnOZLr2cRN41WjEln8ocl3htFYv2k3M1PKEzuK6Tt6gB1nkX6Gjpuko-UIkX9hkqJ_LpnkdlFVtvTZ0CUkgv50gWyR9WkB6SpHaWe8/w400-h210/Barley_field-2007-02-22%2528large%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></i></div><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-75140955661773005172021-02-04T15:16:00.004+00:002021-02-05T18:31:08.155+00:00Unfinished Beauty<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Cr-kHcqzd-6RXWDIUMg440BvFdDUs3SGcP5w4U45XH8_7ClycXQHqIKj_lZPXpEhzvbk4KjdKpY59TzONwDXWMsmQEUpfhH8nzIziCP8zH6BHwZ9KERlHtXO6u_ErO-TFgU79e-IL7w/s519/fa6f317705c389c33edbbc6b74566eb5.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="519" data-original-width="346" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Cr-kHcqzd-6RXWDIUMg440BvFdDUs3SGcP5w4U45XH8_7ClycXQHqIKj_lZPXpEhzvbk4KjdKpY59TzONwDXWMsmQEUpfhH8nzIziCP8zH6BHwZ9KERlHtXO6u_ErO-TFgU79e-IL7w/w133-h200/fa6f317705c389c33edbbc6b74566eb5.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>It always starts with a vision of beauty. <p></p><p>Something strikes me as beautiful and I want to paint it! </p><p>In my mind's eye, I can always envision the breath-taking 'could be' and I dive in... sketching, laying it out, choosing the colours. </p><p>Step by step, I paint. </p><p>Every single time I paint, I am aware of how my skills fall so very short of my vision. What is so remarkable in Creation... that cloud, those colours, that shade... it never quite matches or lives up to the beauty that I desire to represent. </p><p><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> </span><span> But... still. </span>Step by step, I paint. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVec8GW6xNLE9Pyi8U6Y5MzjlVBOp5bumDmj4wmaTOiCnjTYVO5wcBEfKD3dGX5gSyGqs18A6SZ_4gjOxAmQfoDboe_19Xd9ZTi3FLh7pAVBik9mQsHX7HywCFAUFyCAPDO-dnRWbNgww/s4032/20210203_123557.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVec8GW6xNLE9Pyi8U6Y5MzjlVBOp5bumDmj4wmaTOiCnjTYVO5wcBEfKD3dGX5gSyGqs18A6SZ_4gjOxAmQfoDboe_19Xd9ZTi3FLh7pAVBik9mQsHX7HywCFAUFyCAPDO-dnRWbNgww/w113-h178/20210203_123557.jpg" width="113" /></a></div><p>As I have been painting now a few short years, I have learned that patience is a key ingredient. Grace, also is needed... where there is a wrong stroke or a wrong colour... grace and creativity are needed to compensate and shift. </p><p>God reminds me today that I am His masterpiece... his 'poema' (Greek word in Ephesians 2:10). His poem! He is writing, and painting, and creating me continuously. </p><p>Just as I sketch with a vision--- so He sees Stephanie as she will be, should be, ...is. He starts with a sketch. His ways are perfect. His skills masterful. His ways good.</p><p>Just as I paint this bit, then that bit, waiting, ...layering and adding. Shading and shifting. Taking mistakes and turning them with my brush into purposeful strokes... So, He is constantly "completing His good work in me" (Philippians 1:6) </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_6fCN2rbo7b0pT4EPj91B6inQuwjk_xBrLEih4tEiupp2KkEpgKVL0UckPZV-6e7x4GLB2gxyFJYRIIMj67zVjyLwpf0_3bwRJ_IrPhLe7QWSF7sMQwgyXNlP4A-u8UR08lowdnxGxU/s4032/20210203_171859.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="2268" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy_6fCN2rbo7b0pT4EPj91B6inQuwjk_xBrLEih4tEiupp2KkEpgKVL0UckPZV-6e7x4GLB2gxyFJYRIIMj67zVjyLwpf0_3bwRJ_IrPhLe7QWSF7sMQwgyXNlP4A-u8UR08lowdnxGxU/w113-h200/20210203_171859.jpg" width="113" /></a></div><br />These paintings of mine... they aren't done yet. So much can be added to or 'fixed' or tweaked... <p></p><p>I am not done yet. </p><p><i>I </i>am not done yet. Or, shall I say... He is not done with me yet!</p><p>He is not done painting. The story is not over. The poem is not complete. He still has much colour to add, much shading to do... </p><p>I am reminded that He always starts with a vision of beauty. Knit together in my mother's womb, on purpose, I am fearfully and wonderfully made. All my days planned, known, and shaped by His love. (Psalm 139). </p><p>You, too. He sees. He is shading. He is working. He is painting. </p><p>Every. Single. One of us. </p><p>His poema. His masterpiece. His loved, beloved creation. </p><p>Lean in and let Him have His way. Tell Him you want Him to continue to make you a thing of beauty. </p><p>It always begins with a vision of beauty! </p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-52177449625426343202021-01-27T12:33:00.010+00:002021-01-27T14:03:38.556+00:00Dirty, dirty world<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVKpMHkaii99WK9IvAEXQh9VSDedJcsEvT3F9ruu2h0z7KvabT_9V1CuPVE2EPRfI8WiCj_Zujr8VXlUOOq12ONE3oewmZirZRTbZck1Y7zh4UYRzQN7UBN9H1CjrRQAkaCQ4ABu2d6E4/s1280/girl-5844289_1280.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="853" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVKpMHkaii99WK9IvAEXQh9VSDedJcsEvT3F9ruu2h0z7KvabT_9V1CuPVE2EPRfI8WiCj_Zujr8VXlUOOq12ONE3oewmZirZRTbZck1Y7zh4UYRzQN7UBN9H1CjrRQAkaCQ4ABu2d6E4/w133-h200/girl-5844289_1280.jpg" width="133" /></a></div><u><p style="text-align: center;">Dirty, dirty world</p></u><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">Oh dear! </p><p style="text-align: center;">My shoes, Lord!?! </p><p style="text-align: center;">Do you see? </p><p style="text-align: center;">I'm sorry, Father. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">I only went out walking... </p><p style="text-align: center;">The mud today was very deep. </p><p style="text-align: center;">And, now, Lord... </p><p style="text-align: center;">Do you see? </p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">My boots are covered in muck. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Mud lingering up my leg. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Dirty, heavy, drowned in sludge</p><p style="text-align: center;">What shall I do? </p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Easily cleaned, you say?</p><p style="text-align: center;">Stand still a moment.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Simple water will do the trick.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Cold, uncomfortable, but easy to clean.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Thank you Father!</p><p style="text-align: center;">Cleanse my muddy boots.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Wash away the muck of today's world.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Wash my hands, my feet, and my head, too!</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">"Jesus answered, A person who has had a bath need only to wash his feet" John 13:10</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-29581901419882864262021-01-22T14:15:00.008+00:002021-01-24T10:10:16.958+00:00Go Looking For It! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhyphenhyphenTvBtUr6mimZYMjAMNuu1Rhzwjd0o5MktLb2874a9279ZNM4kZEP-Vq2U19cGs5lhhVZsWS8S_Xq-juVXKFMjGy4zruZoq5yk-iyLmemzC5ZwD1ZEbjdYoGepx7J3jrVAsBilyGdu4/s259/rain.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="259" data-original-width="194" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIhyphenhyphenTvBtUr6mimZYMjAMNuu1Rhzwjd0o5MktLb2874a9279ZNM4kZEP-Vq2U19cGs5lhhVZsWS8S_Xq-juVXKFMjGy4zruZoq5yk-iyLmemzC5ZwD1ZEbjdYoGepx7J3jrVAsBilyGdu4/w150-h200/rain.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><p>I live in a country where it rains a lot. I mean... it seriously rains... a ...lot. </p><p>An awful lot!</p><p>Growing up in California, where it is daily 75 degrees and sunny, this can still be hard for me from time to time. </p><p>One thing I have learned in these 10+ years in this rainy land is---that with rain comes the opportunity for a rainbow! One never knows when it will come... but, with rain comes the hope. Without rain, rainbows aren't even a possibility! </p><p>I have a funny habit that has developed over the years. When it starts to rain, I go looking for the rainbow. Today, instinctively, when the downpour started, I ran to front window and then to the back window--- feeling like a child looking for Santa's sleigh in the sky. </p><p>At the back window, I could feel my heart drop just a bit. I was disappointed when no rainbow was found. But, ...then I had this inclination... this whisper in my heart... <i>Just wait a minute. </i> </p><p>So, I waited. A minute... such a short time. But, it took effort. Waiting is not easy for any of us. </p><p>Then it appeared.</p><p>The waited for... it appeared. My rainbow. It felt personal. Such a beautiful result of rain. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixhFawjx_cG7E2fff4kUdw0fZamk0fjDN3o6Ny2QrDv1E3Xdke02e8HD2zNJoccpq5hzFprATkZVCpF-b3w6yBunnIpog49I2ZKnPoxz2KNKEFqjt8n6StgegQmmNXi5etfqURGxvHMqY/s2599/20210122_134904.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1210" data-original-width="2599" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixhFawjx_cG7E2fff4kUdw0fZamk0fjDN3o6Ny2QrDv1E3Xdke02e8HD2zNJoccpq5hzFprATkZVCpF-b3w6yBunnIpog49I2ZKnPoxz2KNKEFqjt8n6StgegQmmNXi5etfqURGxvHMqY/s320/20210122_134904.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">My rainbow!</span></div><p>This rainbow doesn't distract from the reality that with rain comes mud--- oh! so much yuck, muck and mud. With rain comes mould, mildew, sickness, slippery walk ways and bone-chilling-cold--- oh! such deep cold. The rainbow doesn't take away from the 'yuck' that comes with so much rain. </p><p>The beauty found in any moment doesn't <i>lessen the pain</i>. But it <i>adds to.</i>.. It adds some joy to the equation. The equation now includes breath-taking, moving, dramatic skies, sound of rushing and pelting water, and green fields that stay green all year round. Reality is balanced by these moments of joy. </p><p>One small moment. </p><p>I could have missed it, if I hadn't gone looking for it. </p><p>Looking. And waiting. I waited in hope. </p><p>It's been a 'rainy' year--- this 2020, hasn't it? And, 2021... is deep in muck and mud. Our nightly news is bone-chilling with no end in sight. </p><p>Join me in looking for the shadows in the skies as an artist might look. Look for the green fields of strength and endurance in each other. Listen for the sounds of life amidst the pain. They are there. I promise. </p><p>Promise. </p><p>Let's look--- hope and wait for the rainbows. We have no promise they will come today. But, we can always hunt for them. Hunt and look with me, today, will you? </p><p><br /></p><p>------</p><p>Yep... I have written on this topic A LOT! <a href="https://hisgirlalone.blogspot.com/2016/04/looking-for-rainbow.html">Here...</a> and <a href="https://hisgirlalone.blogspot.com/2011/11/suffering-becomes-rainbow.html">here...</a> I guess it's still impacting me today. Nothing new under the sun--- especially rainbows!</p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-22007385271460657722021-01-18T12:33:00.002+00:002021-01-18T12:48:13.169+00:00The Waiting Deposit<p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZX0Ls1VcTnWtwAz0F2NHBAbz-EvA2bC9ld-pTznRHpqkzzk29NZJTPaxGt5KuFTZG28ssB1EsNIrYVFML-rufAZwHwGxzapZoOU_RZ_sZZe3RLCzW3YEqE8rh4QhwVEJ8qsGBbHVLLeg/s264/bank.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="191" data-original-width="264" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZX0Ls1VcTnWtwAz0F2NHBAbz-EvA2bC9ld-pTznRHpqkzzk29NZJTPaxGt5KuFTZG28ssB1EsNIrYVFML-rufAZwHwGxzapZoOU_RZ_sZZe3RLCzW3YEqE8rh4QhwVEJ8qsGBbHVLLeg/w200-h145/bank.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: center;">There is a sadness that sits in the silence</p><p style="text-align: center;">as I go looking for you.</p><p style="text-align: center;">I wait and wonder, </p><p style="text-align: center;">where I am and where you are.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">What I know to be true and feel in these moments</p><p style="text-align: center;">are far from each other.</p><p style="text-align: center;">So, I wait and wonder, </p><p style="text-align: center;">when you will come, when I will feel you.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Deeper still, I listen hard and sit long</p><p style="text-align: center;">I sense your Presence.</p><p style="text-align: center;">I wait and I wonder...</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">A well of truth and love that fills</p><p style="text-align: center;">the depths of my soul.</p><p style="text-align: center;">I wait and wonder...</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">This recessed deposit reminds me</p><p style="text-align: center;">a future that will come. </p><p style="text-align: center;">I wait and I wonder...</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Sunken deep, a guarantee</p><p style="text-align: center;">my spirit tastes and sees.</p><p style="text-align: center;">So, I wait and I wonder, </p><p style="text-align: center;">where I am and when you will come. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">"The Spirit is God’s deposit guaranteeing that he will give
us the inheritance he promised </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">and that he has purchased us to be his own
people. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">He did this so we would praise and glorify him."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ephesians 1:14<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">"It is God who enables us, along with you, to stand firm for
Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">He set his seal of ownership on
us, and put his Spirit in our hearts </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to
come."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2 Corinthians 1:21-22<o:p></o:p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-88054526670989036792021-01-11T16:51:00.004+00:002021-01-11T16:51:46.942+00:00Old Habits <p style="text-align: center;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsBao-8HBw1ph_id6LgMmZgZedfv_Tj8Ug7LUzK_zrQB8E6h3PBKPTyEqh1CwXsT9z4yXvXHiGFsa6UQbgP8lFGd3Dpi9V8cnyGsLRmZrHmg3U7o3a7XibUeYG0b3-VwkXVvF6lzDLChY/s800/piece-tattered-clothing-big-white-hole-blue-matter-piece-tattered-clothing-big-white-hole-matter-148369026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsBao-8HBw1ph_id6LgMmZgZedfv_Tj8Ug7LUzK_zrQB8E6h3PBKPTyEqh1CwXsT9z4yXvXHiGFsa6UQbgP8lFGd3Dpi9V8cnyGsLRmZrHmg3U7o3a7XibUeYG0b3-VwkXVvF6lzDLChY/s320/piece-tattered-clothing-big-white-hole-blue-matter-piece-tattered-clothing-big-white-hole-matter-148369026.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: center;">There are things we learn to do, ...to say, ...to think</p><p style="text-align: center;">To cope when we are young.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Habits of thought that bring comfort</p><p style="text-align: center;">Actions that blanket a sad heart</p><p style="text-align: center;">Activities that wrap around loneliness </p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">As we age, these habits become second nature </p><p style="text-align: center;">Knee-jerk and natural responses.</p><p style="text-align: center;">They have grown up with us like friends from childhood.</p><p style="text-align: center;">But, they are incongruous and ill-fitting</p><p style="text-align: center;">They pinch and push against our maturity.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">What once promised a cover of warmth, </p><p style="text-align: center;">Now delivers cold realities</p><p style="text-align: center;">A heart revealed and a soul needing more. </p><p style="text-align: center;">What we can do... what we do do...</p><p style="text-align: center;">Not always beneficial or constructive, Paul says.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">My old habits are tattered and worn, warped and torn.</p><p style="text-align: center;">Old and in poor condition, full of holes.</p><p style="text-align: center;">I still try them on from time to time. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Each and every time, I find them lacking. </p><p style="text-align: center;">Dusty with years of stench... yep, the bin is where they belong.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">"Throw off that which so easily entangles you!" (Hebrews 12:1)</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-72495103607325585142020-12-21T04:30:00.003+00:002020-12-21T15:37:35.540+00:00LAST Sabbatical Reflection: Words on a Page #36 I Remember<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRYs-fRchLOYxskS3Njhb1zMwSrm4Zi_f23XlnI-b84DahIcOwUZGQosg8M13WexC5SZbKv6drydimeq-Y6i6lwTfw1T9OuagR6KmWKpaDKWqazSEM54_ioi-Nzg5XOUxuegFPPDmGnOk/s400/writing2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="400" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRYs-fRchLOYxskS3Njhb1zMwSrm4Zi_f23XlnI-b84DahIcOwUZGQosg8M13WexC5SZbKv6drydimeq-Y6i6lwTfw1T9OuagR6KmWKpaDKWqazSEM54_ioi-Nzg5XOUxuegFPPDmGnOk/w200-h150/writing2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <u>I Remember... </u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">...words taken and reworked almost directly from Ezekiel 16...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">The clear image has stolen into my mind</div><div style="text-align: center;">Day and night, without bidding.</div><div style="text-align: center;">A waking dream. I remember. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I see her...feeling so very old at 15,</div><div style="text-align: center;">But truly so, so very young.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Insecure. Lost. Sad. Scared. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I remember the days of my youth,</div><div style="text-align: center;">I know where I came from, </div><div style="text-align: center;">where you found me. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I know the state I was in---</div><div style="text-align: center;">The pain, the confusion.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Where I was heading.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">You found me, </div><div style="text-align: center;">born from lines of sin and treachery.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Bloodied with misuse.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Uncared for. Unseen.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Tossed aside and neglected.</div><div style="text-align: center;">You found me naked, unaware of my shame.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Tenderly, you brought me close.</div><div style="text-align: center;">With your hesed, you bathed me.</div><div style="text-align: center;">You washed me clean. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">You clothed me with fine linen.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Adorned me with beauty and wealth.</div><div style="text-align: center;">You fed me with choice foods.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">You poured abundance.</div><div style="text-align: center;">You poured blessing on my head.</div><div style="text-align: center;">You established an everlasting covenant.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">You offered yourself to me, </div><div style="text-align: center;">Covered me with your garments.</div><div style="text-align: center;">You called me your own.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">I belong to you!<br />I am yours.</div><div style="text-align: center;">You are mine.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">With joy and with peace</div><div style="text-align: center;">You fill my days.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Your love is better than life.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Written November 2020</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">...words taken and reworked almost directly from Ezekiel 16..</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Ezekiel 16:3-14 </div><div style="text-align: center;">"...<span style="text-align: left;">I bathed you with water and washed the blood from you and
put ointments on you. I clothed you with an embroidered dress and put
sandals of fine leather on you. I dressed you in fine linen and covered you
with costly garments. I adorned you with jewellery: I put bracelets on your
arms and a necklace around your neck..."</span></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Inexpressible-Hesed-Mystery-Gods-Lovingkindness/dp/0830845496">HESED </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Written November 2020</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7766649527655048527.post-26849352286486750152020-12-18T04:00:00.000+00:002020-12-18T13:56:52.712+00:00Sabbatical Reflections: Words on a Page #35 Farmers Words<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLz8eDbA4OZUsXjYHAJBAlNRL7x-GqYhOhliKl2P4KnNw40gQneAqYLwJBWE8InZzogvTggUE40uDSgi4F_PYiEEagTYDtz0XmEVdf7bV7BV0PAsiznNUV3KODc0M-2uBaaORUp56hZak/s400/writing2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="400" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLz8eDbA4OZUsXjYHAJBAlNRL7x-GqYhOhliKl2P4KnNw40gQneAqYLwJBWE8InZzogvTggUE40uDSgi4F_PYiEEagTYDtz0XmEVdf7bV7BV0PAsiznNUV3KODc0M-2uBaaORUp56hZak/w200-h150/writing2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><u> The Farmer's Words</u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Something is always wrong with the sheep, </div><div style="text-align: center;">the farmer says with disdainful tone.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Their feet, their bums, ever lost or caught.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Would never make it on their own.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Funny that He calls me sheep,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Rumbles of laughter fill my soul.</div><div style="text-align: center;">My body, my will, often lost or caught.</div><div style="text-align: center;">My freedom is found in His control. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Something is always wrong with this sheep.</div><div style="text-align: center;">This truth sits like a wisdom crown.</div><div style="text-align: center;">My shepherd, my farmer, my gardener, my friend.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Watched by Him, I'm safely found. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Written November 2020</div><p></p>Stephaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13680594461260449242noreply@blogger.com