Walking with Jesus: On His Journey to Jerusalem
Mark 4:30-32 Parable of the Mustard Seed
30 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 seed you plant in the ground. 32 Yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds of the air can perch in its shade."
'He is an artist, a dear friend. He peeks, looks around, notices, sees things twice. I asked for a story for a memorial garden. John thinks, then speaks briefly. "Some seed has to be frozen before it grows." He told of leaving a beechnut seed in the refrigerator and forgetting. The seed was frozen through the winter. It grew. Freezing breaks open the protective shell. We talked. "Some seed has to be frozen to break the shell and grow. Some seed has to go through a forrest fire."
My mother soaked some seed in water before planting. Here seems to be one of the many stories Jesus might have told which were never recorded. Seed has a shell. When broken by water in a dry land, by fire of Pentecost, or the cold of winter, it will grow.
It is true, all things work for the good when we TRUST God. The seed will grow through heat or cold or flood. TRUST THE MAKER OF THE SEED. Talk with someone who went through fire, or a hard cold spell in his or her life, and ask what good came of it.'
I couldn't have said it better!!! Lots of times I am the seed with the hard shell not wanting anyone to get to close, not wanting to feel "hurt" again. For years now I have worked on this. For years God has spoke two words into my spirit. Those two words are "Trust Me".
Have you ever felt like you have taken major steps forward in your life and the something happens and you feel like you now are two steps back? Was that God trying to break this shell that I have built up around me? Was this God putting me through fire to try to burn the shell off? Was this when God had me in His refrigerator trying to freeze me so that the shell would break open? Why am I trying to hold on to this shell so hard? Is it because it is what I know, it is because I'm comfortable?
I'm tire of this way of living. I am choosing to believe God. I want to break out of this shell and run like the wind. Okay maybe not like the wind but a gentle breeze!!! The other day I was so frustrated by my progress but today I'm excited!!! I'm walking with Jesus with my head held high and shedding pieces of my shell as I go.........
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Harvest time
Walking with Jesus: Preaching Beside the Sea
Mark 4:3-9, 26-29 Parable of the Sower
3 "Listen. What do you make of this? A farmer planted seed. 4 As he scattered the seed, some of it fell on the road and birds ate it. 5 Some fell in the gravel; it sprouted quickly but didn't put down roots, 6 so when the sun came up it withered just as quickly. 7 Some fell in the weeds; as it came up, it was strangled among the weeds and nothing came of it. 8 Some fell on good earth and came up with a flourish, producing a harvest exceeding his wildest dreams. 9 "Are you listening to this? Really listening?"
26 Then Jesus said, "God's kingdom is like seed thrown on a field by a man 27 who then goes to bed and forgets about it. The seed sprouts and grows - he has no idea how it happens. 28 The earth does it all without his help: first a green stem of grass, then a bud, then the ripened grain. 29 When the grain is fully formed, he reaps - harvest time!
Jesus uses this parable to tell how the gospel will be received in the world. Three truths may be learned. 1. Conversion and fruitfulness depend on how one responds to God's Word; 2. A mixed reaction to the gospel by the world. Some who hear will not understand, others will believe unto salvation but will later fall away, still others will believe unto salvation, persevere and bear fruit in varying degrees.
The big question is where do I stand in these truths? I know I can only persevere with God's strength. Again Deut. 30:11 comes to mind....What you are commanding me today is not too difficult for me or beyond my reach.....What's God asking of me today? Am I listening? Am I preparing for the harvest?
I'll leave you with this prayer. Not sure who wrote it but I like it....
Dear God,
When there is a harvest,
let me sow an offering.
When new growth is trampled flat,
let me sow a seed of hope.
When days are dim,
let me sow a light.
When nights are much too dark,
let me sow a promise.
When a heart is broken down,
let me sow a kiss of peace.
When minds are tightly shut,
let me sow a dream.
When a soul needs one more breath,
let me sow a seed of love.
Keep Walking with Jesus.....
Mark 4:3-9, 26-29 Parable of the Sower
3 "Listen. What do you make of this? A farmer planted seed. 4 As he scattered the seed, some of it fell on the road and birds ate it. 5 Some fell in the gravel; it sprouted quickly but didn't put down roots, 6 so when the sun came up it withered just as quickly. 7 Some fell in the weeds; as it came up, it was strangled among the weeds and nothing came of it. 8 Some fell on good earth and came up with a flourish, producing a harvest exceeding his wildest dreams. 9 "Are you listening to this? Really listening?"
26 Then Jesus said, "God's kingdom is like seed thrown on a field by a man 27 who then goes to bed and forgets about it. The seed sprouts and grows - he has no idea how it happens. 28 The earth does it all without his help: first a green stem of grass, then a bud, then the ripened grain. 29 When the grain is fully formed, he reaps - harvest time!
Jesus uses this parable to tell how the gospel will be received in the world. Three truths may be learned. 1. Conversion and fruitfulness depend on how one responds to God's Word; 2. A mixed reaction to the gospel by the world. Some who hear will not understand, others will believe unto salvation but will later fall away, still others will believe unto salvation, persevere and bear fruit in varying degrees.
The big question is where do I stand in these truths? I know I can only persevere with God's strength. Again Deut. 30:11 comes to mind....What you are commanding me today is not too difficult for me or beyond my reach.....What's God asking of me today? Am I listening? Am I preparing for the harvest?
I'll leave you with this prayer. Not sure who wrote it but I like it....
Dear God,
When there is a harvest,
let me sow an offering.
When new growth is trampled flat,
let me sow a seed of hope.
When days are dim,
let me sow a light.
When nights are much too dark,
let me sow a promise.
When a heart is broken down,
let me sow a kiss of peace.
When minds are tightly shut,
let me sow a dream.
When a soul needs one more breath,
let me sow a seed of love.
Keep Walking with Jesus.....
Monday, November 24, 2008
Be the Light
Walking with Jesus: Preaching Beside the Sea
Mark 4:21 The Light of the World
...Jesus went on: "Does anyone bring a lamp home and put it under a washtub or beneath the bed? Don't you put it up on a table or on the mantel? (The Message)
Jesus often taught his followers in parables, using things that everyone experienced in their everyday lives. Jesus said, "I am the Light of the World" and because of His death and resurrection, we too are to be lights to the world. So the question is am I being God's light in my world? Is my stronghold of unhealthy dimming my light to my family, my workplace and in my world? Am I being all that God wants me to be?
They say that the firefly only lights up when it is moving forward. Am I moving forward or am I just at a stand still? I get so frustrated when I try so hard and still seem to be stuck. Right now I have so far to go down this road that I can't see the end but I know that I know that I will persevere and when I have passed this test, I will receive the crown of life that God has promised to me. I must remember that I am a child of God, His treasured possession. I must remember that He created me in His own image, He chose the day for me to be born. I must remember that He has a plan and a purpose for my life and when I remember those things I don't have to be able to "see the end" because I will keep walking by faith with my Jesus with His light shinning through me....
Mark 4:21 The Light of the World
...Jesus went on: "Does anyone bring a lamp home and put it under a washtub or beneath the bed? Don't you put it up on a table or on the mantel? (The Message)
Jesus often taught his followers in parables, using things that everyone experienced in their everyday lives. Jesus said, "I am the Light of the World" and because of His death and resurrection, we too are to be lights to the world. So the question is am I being God's light in my world? Is my stronghold of unhealthy dimming my light to my family, my workplace and in my world? Am I being all that God wants me to be?
They say that the firefly only lights up when it is moving forward. Am I moving forward or am I just at a stand still? I get so frustrated when I try so hard and still seem to be stuck. Right now I have so far to go down this road that I can't see the end but I know that I know that I will persevere and when I have passed this test, I will receive the crown of life that God has promised to me. I must remember that I am a child of God, His treasured possession. I must remember that He created me in His own image, He chose the day for me to be born. I must remember that He has a plan and a purpose for my life and when I remember those things I don't have to be able to "see the end" because I will keep walking by faith with my Jesus with His light shinning through me....
Friday, November 21, 2008
Holy Habits
Walking with Jesus: Up the Mountain to Preach (Sermon on the Mount)
Matthew 5:6 Jesus blesses those who seek spiritual fulfillment
I love what Matthew 5:6 says in The Message, "You're blessed when you've worked up a good appetite for God. He's food and drink in the best meal you'll ever eat."
Holy Habits are really important in our lives, in my life. These "Resurrection Routines" are things I do regularly that keep me focused on the Lord and the people around me. These habits are not ends in themselves, but rather ways for me to really keep my perspective in line. Some Holy Habits for me are: regular prayer time, worship time, taking of the Sacraments, a change to intentionally tell my testimony to someone, listening to Christian music or talking with and listening to a friend.
Thank you Lord for my Holy Habits. Father, help me to review them in my mind. Am I doing all I can do or is there some activities that you want me to give up and to replace them with more of you. Father, today I pray that you would be my strength. Help me to make healthy food choices. Help me to get in my steps. Father, I pray that you would help me to make holy habits and healthy habits today so that I will be better prepared to participate in Your abundance. Father, mostly I pray that I would hear and listen to what you are telling me. Help me to Keep Walking and focusing on You more and more........Amen and Amen!!!
Matthew 5:6 Jesus blesses those who seek spiritual fulfillment
I love what Matthew 5:6 says in The Message, "You're blessed when you've worked up a good appetite for God. He's food and drink in the best meal you'll ever eat."
Holy Habits are really important in our lives, in my life. These "Resurrection Routines" are things I do regularly that keep me focused on the Lord and the people around me. These habits are not ends in themselves, but rather ways for me to really keep my perspective in line. Some Holy Habits for me are: regular prayer time, worship time, taking of the Sacraments, a change to intentionally tell my testimony to someone, listening to Christian music or talking with and listening to a friend.
Thank you Lord for my Holy Habits. Father, help me to review them in my mind. Am I doing all I can do or is there some activities that you want me to give up and to replace them with more of you. Father, today I pray that you would be my strength. Help me to make healthy food choices. Help me to get in my steps. Father, I pray that you would help me to make holy habits and healthy habits today so that I will be better prepared to participate in Your abundance. Father, mostly I pray that I would hear and listen to what you are telling me. Help me to Keep Walking and focusing on You more and more........Amen and Amen!!!
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Hope-filled Day
Walking with Jesus: Up the Mountain to Preach (Sermon on the Mount)
Matthew 5:7, 9:13 Jesus blessed those who show mercy
Hints for a Hope-Filled Day
1. Today I will not strike back. If someone is rude, impatient or unkind, I will not respond in a like manner.
2. Today I will ask God to bless my "enemy". If I come across someone who treats me harshly or unfairly, I will quietly ask God to bless that individual.
3. Today I will be careful about what I say. I will carefully choose and guard my words, being certain that I do not spread gossip.
4. Today I will go the extra mile. I will find ways to share the burden of another.
5. Today I will forgive. I will forgive any hurts or injuries that come my way.
6 Today I will do something nice for someone. I will reach out and bless the life of another.
7. Today I will raise the spirits of someone who is discouraged. My smile, my words or my expression of support can make the difference to someone wrestling with life.
8. Today I will nurture my body. I will eat less; I will walk my extra steps; I will thank God for my body.
9. Today I will grow spiritually. I will spend a little more time in prayer. I will find a quiet place and listen to God's voice.
10. Today I will celebrate forgiveness in Christ....even when I don't live up to the other hints listed above.
Keep Walking With Jesus......
Matthew 5:7, 9:13 Jesus blessed those who show mercy
Hints for a Hope-Filled Day
1. Today I will not strike back. If someone is rude, impatient or unkind, I will not respond in a like manner.
2. Today I will ask God to bless my "enemy". If I come across someone who treats me harshly or unfairly, I will quietly ask God to bless that individual.
3. Today I will be careful about what I say. I will carefully choose and guard my words, being certain that I do not spread gossip.
4. Today I will go the extra mile. I will find ways to share the burden of another.
5. Today I will forgive. I will forgive any hurts or injuries that come my way.
6 Today I will do something nice for someone. I will reach out and bless the life of another.
7. Today I will raise the spirits of someone who is discouraged. My smile, my words or my expression of support can make the difference to someone wrestling with life.
8. Today I will nurture my body. I will eat less; I will walk my extra steps; I will thank God for my body.
9. Today I will grow spiritually. I will spend a little more time in prayer. I will find a quiet place and listen to God's voice.
10. Today I will celebrate forgiveness in Christ....even when I don't live up to the other hints listed above.
Keep Walking With Jesus......
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Family Tree
Walking with Jesus: Up the Mountain to Preach (Sermon on the Mount)
Matthew 5:5 Jesus preaches about those who are powerless
Romans 8:15
For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of daughtership. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." (NIV)
The first hearers of this text knew that one of the deep losses for slaves was their sense of family, lineage and ancestry. Slaves did not have a last name. They carried a mark that designated to whom they belonged, but their belonging was a matter of property, not love or blood, history or future.
This is not our story. We are not slaves to our relationship with God. When we emerged from baptismal waters, we emerged with a new last name. In baptism, we were not marked as a matter of property, but of love and blood, history and future. Our relationship with God is not about slavishly pleasing. We are welcomed as children and heirs of God's abundance. In baptism, we were publicly claimed and named Christian.
With the last name "Christian" we have an eternal and purposeful value to God and the universe. We did not receive a spirit of slavery that would launch us into a stance of fear. Rather, we received a spirit of adoption so that we might face the world from the security of belonging---to the Creator of the whole universe.
Romans 8:15 in The Message say it this way....This resurrection life you received from God is not a timid, grave-tending life. It's adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike "What's next, Papa?"
So the question is, Am I a slave to food and to unhealthy? The question is, What's next, Papa? I think the first thing I have to do is to remember who I am. Remember what my last name is since I have given my life to Jesus Christ. My name should not be just Marilyn Smith anymore. It should be Marilyn Smith Christian. Am I living up to that name. Am I living up to my names potential? Am I remembering that I have the same power in me as Jesus had when he came back to life after three days. Am I remembering that I am not powerless when I plug into The Source? Am I remember whose I am? Am I honoring that name with every bite I take and every step I make?
What God is commanding me today is not too difficult for me or beyond my reach. Deut. 30:11
Keeping my eyes focused as I keep walking with Jesus......
Matthew 5:5 Jesus preaches about those who are powerless
Romans 8:15
For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of daughtership. And by him we cry, "Abba, Father." (NIV)
The first hearers of this text knew that one of the deep losses for slaves was their sense of family, lineage and ancestry. Slaves did not have a last name. They carried a mark that designated to whom they belonged, but their belonging was a matter of property, not love or blood, history or future.
This is not our story. We are not slaves to our relationship with God. When we emerged from baptismal waters, we emerged with a new last name. In baptism, we were not marked as a matter of property, but of love and blood, history and future. Our relationship with God is not about slavishly pleasing. We are welcomed as children and heirs of God's abundance. In baptism, we were publicly claimed and named Christian.
With the last name "Christian" we have an eternal and purposeful value to God and the universe. We did not receive a spirit of slavery that would launch us into a stance of fear. Rather, we received a spirit of adoption so that we might face the world from the security of belonging---to the Creator of the whole universe.
Romans 8:15 in The Message say it this way....This resurrection life you received from God is not a timid, grave-tending life. It's adventurously expectant, greeting God with a childlike "What's next, Papa?"
So the question is, Am I a slave to food and to unhealthy? The question is, What's next, Papa? I think the first thing I have to do is to remember who I am. Remember what my last name is since I have given my life to Jesus Christ. My name should not be just Marilyn Smith anymore. It should be Marilyn Smith Christian. Am I living up to that name. Am I living up to my names potential? Am I remembering that I have the same power in me as Jesus had when he came back to life after three days. Am I remembering that I am not powerless when I plug into The Source? Am I remember whose I am? Am I honoring that name with every bite I take and every step I make?
What God is commanding me today is not too difficult for me or beyond my reach. Deut. 30:11
Keeping my eyes focused as I keep walking with Jesus......
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
New Beginnings
Walking with Jesus: Up the Mountain to Preach
Matthew 5:4 Jesus preaches about those who mourn
"You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you." (The Message)
Having lost people who were very close to me in the last couple of years, its hard to find joy and laughter when you are hurting and mourning. Before I always thought that it was so wrong for people to be laughing at a wake but as I grow in my faith I know that the sadness is beyond words and have shed many tears. But I now see God's new beginnings in every ending. How can I not be happy for my loved ones when I know whose they were and where they are.
A few weeks after my dad passed, I had a dream about him. (I love it when God speaks to me through dreams!) I was missing dad like crazy and God showed me, through a dream, that he was having the time of his life. I was standing along a road and saw my dad. He was in a hurry, trying to put on his shoes. I told him he should stop so that we could tie them and not fall. He told me that he would be okay and that he didn't have time, he had to go. He had a grin from ear to ear and was laughing and having fun. I got such peace from that dream.
So what does this have to do with getting healthy? Do I believe that the same God who could give me such peace through a dream because he knew His child was hurting, couldn't this same God help me with eating right and exercising? Do you sometimes think that you can't talk to God about the "small things"? If I don't give Him and talk to Him about every part of my life, have I really given my whole heart to Him?
Is He not interested in ALL my struggles? I hate it when people put God in this neat little box but am I doing the same thing? Ouch!!!
I think I had better "assume the position" and give it ALL to the One and Only who can handle it all and who wants too......Keep Walking With Jesus
Matthew 5:4 Jesus preaches about those who mourn
"You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you." (The Message)
Having lost people who were very close to me in the last couple of years, its hard to find joy and laughter when you are hurting and mourning. Before I always thought that it was so wrong for people to be laughing at a wake but as I grow in my faith I know that the sadness is beyond words and have shed many tears. But I now see God's new beginnings in every ending. How can I not be happy for my loved ones when I know whose they were and where they are.
A few weeks after my dad passed, I had a dream about him. (I love it when God speaks to me through dreams!) I was missing dad like crazy and God showed me, through a dream, that he was having the time of his life. I was standing along a road and saw my dad. He was in a hurry, trying to put on his shoes. I told him he should stop so that we could tie them and not fall. He told me that he would be okay and that he didn't have time, he had to go. He had a grin from ear to ear and was laughing and having fun. I got such peace from that dream.
So what does this have to do with getting healthy? Do I believe that the same God who could give me such peace through a dream because he knew His child was hurting, couldn't this same God help me with eating right and exercising? Do you sometimes think that you can't talk to God about the "small things"? If I don't give Him and talk to Him about every part of my life, have I really given my whole heart to Him?
Is He not interested in ALL my struggles? I hate it when people put God in this neat little box but am I doing the same thing? Ouch!!!
I think I had better "assume the position" and give it ALL to the One and Only who can handle it all and who wants too......Keep Walking With Jesus
Monday, November 17, 2008
Peacemakers
Walking with Jesus: Up the Mountain to Preach
Mark 3:13, Matthew 5:9 Jesus preaches about peacemakers
The meditation was so good today, I couldn't have said it any better so I will just write what it says( except I change we to I)....
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God"
"How would I describe the peacemakers Jesus called blessed? I might imagine them to be the people who walk gently through life, quiet the fuss around them and leave everyone happy in their wake. Would these be the ones Jesus calls the children of God?
Probably not. Jesus Himself was hardly a placid presence in His world. Certainly He healed many and no doubt kissed a few babies in His day. But He also flipped tables in the temple and publicly chastised the religious leaders. He was not above using a bit of sarcasm to make a point, and He tended to hang around with people of questionable reputations. He openly challenged the prevailing rules of His tradition. Jesus' kind of peacemaker focuses more on justice and less on pleasing powerful people or mindlessly maintaining tradition. Jesus' kind of peacemaker has a vision of a world that reflects God's mercy and God's justice for the whole creation. And, like Jesus, this kind of peacemaker is committed to a deep and lasting peace, even if it is very costly.
Can I find the courage to be such a peacemaker? Could I risk reputation, confidence, security or comfort for the sake of the good news of God's love for all? When I am full of the Spirit, when I am at my faithful best, I will. And when I fall short as I will, I can trust that Jesus will welcome me all the same, forgiven and blessed."
I'm reading The Shack and this paragraph really stood out for me..it says
"..if anything matters then everything matters. Because you are important, everything you do is important. Every time you forgive, the universe changes; every time you reach out and touch a heart or a life, the world changes; with every kindness and service, seen or unseen, my (God's) purposes are accomplished and nothing will ever be the same again."
Is my trying to be healthy something that matters to God? I believe it is. Do I believe everything I do (and say) could change a heart or a life. Yes and it will make me much more aware of every word that comes from my mouth and every action that I do. God has a purpose for my life and I believe He wants me healthy so that I can accomplished what we has for me. Can I find the courage to get healthy? Can I find the confidence, security and comfort while going though this long journey? I say long journey because I know that it won't happen over night. And when I fall short, will I let that be the end and give up or will I trust that Jesus will pick me up and let me start over? Hebrews 10:35-36 says, "Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.
Keep Walking with Jesus......
Mark 3:13, Matthew 5:9 Jesus preaches about peacemakers
The meditation was so good today, I couldn't have said it any better so I will just write what it says( except I change we to I)....
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God"
"How would I describe the peacemakers Jesus called blessed? I might imagine them to be the people who walk gently through life, quiet the fuss around them and leave everyone happy in their wake. Would these be the ones Jesus calls the children of God?
Probably not. Jesus Himself was hardly a placid presence in His world. Certainly He healed many and no doubt kissed a few babies in His day. But He also flipped tables in the temple and publicly chastised the religious leaders. He was not above using a bit of sarcasm to make a point, and He tended to hang around with people of questionable reputations. He openly challenged the prevailing rules of His tradition. Jesus' kind of peacemaker focuses more on justice and less on pleasing powerful people or mindlessly maintaining tradition. Jesus' kind of peacemaker has a vision of a world that reflects God's mercy and God's justice for the whole creation. And, like Jesus, this kind of peacemaker is committed to a deep and lasting peace, even if it is very costly.
Can I find the courage to be such a peacemaker? Could I risk reputation, confidence, security or comfort for the sake of the good news of God's love for all? When I am full of the Spirit, when I am at my faithful best, I will. And when I fall short as I will, I can trust that Jesus will welcome me all the same, forgiven and blessed."
I'm reading The Shack and this paragraph really stood out for me..it says
"..if anything matters then everything matters. Because you are important, everything you do is important. Every time you forgive, the universe changes; every time you reach out and touch a heart or a life, the world changes; with every kindness and service, seen or unseen, my (God's) purposes are accomplished and nothing will ever be the same again."
Is my trying to be healthy something that matters to God? I believe it is. Do I believe everything I do (and say) could change a heart or a life. Yes and it will make me much more aware of every word that comes from my mouth and every action that I do. God has a purpose for my life and I believe He wants me healthy so that I can accomplished what we has for me. Can I find the courage to get healthy? Can I find the confidence, security and comfort while going though this long journey? I say long journey because I know that it won't happen over night. And when I fall short, will I let that be the end and give up or will I trust that Jesus will pick me up and let me start over? Hebrews 10:35-36 says, "Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.
Keep Walking with Jesus......
Friday, November 14, 2008
Going Back Home
Walking With Jesus: From the Mountain, Back Home to Nazareth
Mark 3:31-35 Who is my family?
I never really thought about how the land looked that Jesus traveled. This land was and is filled with so much natural beauty. This week in my reading from Mark, I walked with Jesus in the grain fields, up the mountains and along the seashore. I tried to envision the area with its exotic trees and lush flowering plants. I went on the net and googled Jordan River and the pictures were beautiful. I even saw pictures of people getting baptised in the River. (Sandy A. if you reading this...) How cool is that!!!
All this got me thinking. We have beautiful sites here in old southern Indiana but am I being to "busy" to notice. There are spectacular things to see all around us, but am I going so fast I don't notice them anymore. How sad is that.
I am always thinking how stressful life is but am I the cause? I have a choice. I want to replace stress with gratitude. Ps 105 says 1 Hallelujah! Thank God! Pray to him by name! Tell everyone you meet what he has done! 2 Sing him songs, belt out hymns, translate his wonders into music! 3 Honor his holy name with Hallelujahs, you who seek God. Live a happy life! 4 Keep your eyes open for God, watch for his works; be alert for signs of his presence. 5 Remember the world of wonders he has made, his miracles, and the verdicts he's rendered - 6 O seed of Abraham, his servant, O child of Jacob, his chosen. 7 He's God, our God, in charge of the whole earth.
For what am I grateful to God for? Am I really noticing His works? I have to take that first step. I have to remember that it is my choice. I have to begin. (Just like getting healthy!!)
Have you ever noticed the joy in your dog when the leash comes out for a walk? How easy it is to please them!
Ever notice the smell of rain quenching an especially hot and dusty day? How cleansing and renewing it is!
Shut your eyes and remember the touch of someone you love. Imagine the creativity when God said, "Let there be touch".
Also with the title "Going Back Home" what about the Holiday's coming up, am I dreading them or am I going to cherish each and every moment spent with family and friends.
And last help me remember the sweetness of forgiveness between me and another. God's forgiveness is even more pure and freeing because there are no strings attached, just love. God is there someone I need to forgive?
Thank you God, for just so many things! Help me to keep putting one foot in front of the other so that I may Keep Walking With My Jesus.....
Mark 3:31-35 Who is my family?
I never really thought about how the land looked that Jesus traveled. This land was and is filled with so much natural beauty. This week in my reading from Mark, I walked with Jesus in the grain fields, up the mountains and along the seashore. I tried to envision the area with its exotic trees and lush flowering plants. I went on the net and googled Jordan River and the pictures were beautiful. I even saw pictures of people getting baptised in the River. (Sandy A. if you reading this...) How cool is that!!!
All this got me thinking. We have beautiful sites here in old southern Indiana but am I being to "busy" to notice. There are spectacular things to see all around us, but am I going so fast I don't notice them anymore. How sad is that.
I am always thinking how stressful life is but am I the cause? I have a choice. I want to replace stress with gratitude. Ps 105 says 1 Hallelujah! Thank God! Pray to him by name! Tell everyone you meet what he has done! 2 Sing him songs, belt out hymns, translate his wonders into music! 3 Honor his holy name with Hallelujahs, you who seek God. Live a happy life! 4 Keep your eyes open for God, watch for his works; be alert for signs of his presence. 5 Remember the world of wonders he has made, his miracles, and the verdicts he's rendered - 6 O seed of Abraham, his servant, O child of Jacob, his chosen. 7 He's God, our God, in charge of the whole earth.
For what am I grateful to God for? Am I really noticing His works? I have to take that first step. I have to remember that it is my choice. I have to begin. (Just like getting healthy!!)
Have you ever noticed the joy in your dog when the leash comes out for a walk? How easy it is to please them!
Ever notice the smell of rain quenching an especially hot and dusty day? How cleansing and renewing it is!
Shut your eyes and remember the touch of someone you love. Imagine the creativity when God said, "Let there be touch".
Also with the title "Going Back Home" what about the Holiday's coming up, am I dreading them or am I going to cherish each and every moment spent with family and friends.
And last help me remember the sweetness of forgiveness between me and another. God's forgiveness is even more pure and freeing because there are no strings attached, just love. God is there someone I need to forgive?
Thank you God, for just so many things! Help me to keep putting one foot in front of the other so that I may Keep Walking With My Jesus.....
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Mountain Top
Walking with Jesus: Up the Mountain, Near the Sea
Mark 3:13-19 Jesus appoints the apostles
3:13
He climbed a mountain and invited those he wanted with him. They climbed together.
Is that not cool. Jesus is not asking us to go it alone...He is climbing with us!!!
3:14
He settled on twelve, and designated them apostles. The plan was that they would be with him, and he would send them out to proclaim the Word
3:15
and give them authority to banish demons.
3:16
These are the Twelve: Simon (Jesus later named him Peter, meaning "Rock"),
3:17
James, son of Zebedee, John, brother of James (Jesus nicknamed the Zebedee brothers Boanerges, meaning "Sons of Thunder"),
3:18
Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James, son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Canaanite,
3:19
Judas Iscariot (who betrayed him).
Sharing the Gospel should never be a job...It should be our JOY! To me sharing the Gospel is not only speaking but it is also my actions. It may mean that I have to turn my other cheek (Matt 5:39) time and time again. It may mean when someone pushes me to my limit and I really want to yell at them that I smile and walk away. It may mean to say my peace in a loving and caring way when I really want to never speak to them again. It may mean to forgive someone (even if they don't ask for it) who as wounded me. Sharing the Gospel is being Christ like in every situation that I face.
The question for today is, how is the Lord enabling me to share my joy in the Gospel ? Please Lord help me not to forget to look around to see how the Lord is sharing that joy with me today--through other people and events!!
Authority and power was given to the Apostles but we too have that same authority and power. Even over a stronghold of unhealthy!!! I know this but am I living up to that power? Am I tapping in to that full power? I can't let the "evil one" take away my joy or my power today. God has called me to "Go fight the good fight" and "to be all we can be". To put on my big girl panties and to be a brave and mighty warrior for Him. To run the race....
Remember laughter and joy are good for the soul and especially remember to keep Walking with Jesus....
Mark 3:13-19 Jesus appoints the apostles
3:13
He climbed a mountain and invited those he wanted with him. They climbed together.
Is that not cool. Jesus is not asking us to go it alone...He is climbing with us!!!
3:14
He settled on twelve, and designated them apostles. The plan was that they would be with him, and he would send them out to proclaim the Word
3:15
and give them authority to banish demons.
3:16
These are the Twelve: Simon (Jesus later named him Peter, meaning "Rock"),
3:17
James, son of Zebedee, John, brother of James (Jesus nicknamed the Zebedee brothers Boanerges, meaning "Sons of Thunder"),
3:18
Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James, son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Canaanite,
3:19
Judas Iscariot (who betrayed him).
Sharing the Gospel should never be a job...It should be our JOY! To me sharing the Gospel is not only speaking but it is also my actions. It may mean that I have to turn my other cheek (Matt 5:39) time and time again. It may mean when someone pushes me to my limit and I really want to yell at them that I smile and walk away. It may mean to say my peace in a loving and caring way when I really want to never speak to them again. It may mean to forgive someone (even if they don't ask for it) who as wounded me. Sharing the Gospel is being Christ like in every situation that I face.
The question for today is, how is the Lord enabling me to share my joy in the Gospel ? Please Lord help me not to forget to look around to see how the Lord is sharing that joy with me today--through other people and events!!
Authority and power was given to the Apostles but we too have that same authority and power. Even over a stronghold of unhealthy!!! I know this but am I living up to that power? Am I tapping in to that full power? I can't let the "evil one" take away my joy or my power today. God has called me to "Go fight the good fight" and "to be all we can be". To put on my big girl panties and to be a brave and mighty warrior for Him. To run the race....
Remember laughter and joy are good for the soul and especially remember to keep Walking with Jesus....
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
To Church
Walking with Jesus: To the Synagogue on the Sabbath
Mark 3:1-6 Jesus heals the man with a withered hand
Jesus went into a church where people were just waiting for Him to "do wrong". Well, wrong in their eyes. The message Bible says "the Pharisees had their eyes on Jesus to see if He would heal him (the man with a withered hand), hoping to catch Him in a Sabbath infraction." Has "the church" changed much from back then to now? Shouldn't church be different from the world? Aren't we as Christians called to be different? Aren't we suppose to live our lives different from the secular world?
I heard a sermon from the church that my mom and brother attends and it said that today's church seems to be all about man-centered, psychology, physiotherapy, seeker-friendly, feel good, happy happy church where you never hear about sin or the cross, just happy happy all the time. Are we called to be only an inch deep and a mile wide? I want to go much deeper with my Lord and Savior. I want ALL He has for me. Don't you?
As a believer, my every activity is to bring God glory. Whether we are at our jobs, cleaning toilets or even getting healthy, we, no speaking for myself, I must honor God in ALL that I do. That means with every bite I take and with every step I make.
The harder I try to "get healthy" the more roadblocks that the "evil one" puts into my path. But I want to bring God glory so when things are going great, I WILL PRAISE HIM. When I stumble, I WILL CONTINUE TO PRAISE HIM. When I fall, I know that my God will be there to pick me up and dust me off as I will continue to Keep Walking with my Jesus and to PRAISE HIM THROUGH IT ALL......
Mark 3:1-6 Jesus heals the man with a withered hand
Jesus went into a church where people were just waiting for Him to "do wrong". Well, wrong in their eyes. The message Bible says "the Pharisees had their eyes on Jesus to see if He would heal him (the man with a withered hand), hoping to catch Him in a Sabbath infraction." Has "the church" changed much from back then to now? Shouldn't church be different from the world? Aren't we as Christians called to be different? Aren't we suppose to live our lives different from the secular world?
I heard a sermon from the church that my mom and brother attends and it said that today's church seems to be all about man-centered, psychology, physiotherapy, seeker-friendly, feel good, happy happy church where you never hear about sin or the cross, just happy happy all the time. Are we called to be only an inch deep and a mile wide? I want to go much deeper with my Lord and Savior. I want ALL He has for me. Don't you?
As a believer, my every activity is to bring God glory. Whether we are at our jobs, cleaning toilets or even getting healthy, we, no speaking for myself, I must honor God in ALL that I do. That means with every bite I take and with every step I make.
The harder I try to "get healthy" the more roadblocks that the "evil one" puts into my path. But I want to bring God glory so when things are going great, I WILL PRAISE HIM. When I stumble, I WILL CONTINUE TO PRAISE HIM. When I fall, I know that my God will be there to pick me up and dust me off as I will continue to Keep Walking with my Jesus and to PRAISE HIM THROUGH IT ALL......
Monday, November 10, 2008
Walking through the Grainfields
Walking with Jesus: Through the Grainfields
Mark 2:23-27
This was the meditation: "...let me sow an offering."
Dear God,
When there is a harvest,let me sow an offering.
When new growth is trampled flat, let me sow a seed of hope.
When days are dim, let me sow a light.
When nights are much to dark, let me sow a promise.
When a heart is broken down, let me sow a kiss of peace.
When minds are tightly shut, let me sow a dream.
When a soul needs one more breath, let me sow a seed of love.
Having grown up as a "farm girl", I love being out in the fields. I miss the days that I spent there. I miss the sounds, the smells and yes, even the hard work. It always amazes me how you plant such a tiny seed and how it grows into a bountiful harvest. The seeds I planted during this time were a lot bigger than a mustard seed that Jesus talks about in Mt 17:20 which says "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
For me "getting healthy" is a huge mountain. One that some days I think I will never get past. I must change that way of thinking because I know that with God, nothing okay say it out loud, NOTHING WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE FOR ME, if only I look to Him. That's what God's words promises me. Where is my faith when it comes to this stronghold in my life? It is so frustrating!!!
These past weeks have been difficult. Did I make my goal of steps each day, no. Did I beat myself up for it, yes. Did I just want to quit, you betcha. As I start this week I need to make changes. Maybe I need to use this exercise time as a time to reflect and praise God for the day (instead of thinking it is just one more thing I have to do). Wouldn't that be a wonderful offering to the Lord! Maybe that is the answer. Could I have been focusing to much on myself when I should have been focusing on Jesus. This could be a great opportunity to strengthen both my body and my spirit as I make improvements in my physical and spiritual health. So that is my goal for this week...to use my exercise time as an opportunity to pray and build my relationship with my Lord and Savior. And the plus factor maybe that I find the time passing more quickly as I walk and that I may be more refreshed when I am finished.
Not only Walking With Jesus but focusing totally on Him.....
Mark 2:23-27
This was the meditation: "...let me sow an offering."
Dear God,
When there is a harvest,let me sow an offering.
When new growth is trampled flat, let me sow a seed of hope.
When days are dim, let me sow a light.
When nights are much to dark, let me sow a promise.
When a heart is broken down, let me sow a kiss of peace.
When minds are tightly shut, let me sow a dream.
When a soul needs one more breath, let me sow a seed of love.
Having grown up as a "farm girl", I love being out in the fields. I miss the days that I spent there. I miss the sounds, the smells and yes, even the hard work. It always amazes me how you plant such a tiny seed and how it grows into a bountiful harvest. The seeds I planted during this time were a lot bigger than a mustard seed that Jesus talks about in Mt 17:20 which says "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
For me "getting healthy" is a huge mountain. One that some days I think I will never get past. I must change that way of thinking because I know that with God, nothing okay say it out loud, NOTHING WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE FOR ME, if only I look to Him. That's what God's words promises me. Where is my faith when it comes to this stronghold in my life? It is so frustrating!!!
These past weeks have been difficult. Did I make my goal of steps each day, no. Did I beat myself up for it, yes. Did I just want to quit, you betcha. As I start this week I need to make changes. Maybe I need to use this exercise time as a time to reflect and praise God for the day (instead of thinking it is just one more thing I have to do). Wouldn't that be a wonderful offering to the Lord! Maybe that is the answer. Could I have been focusing to much on myself when I should have been focusing on Jesus. This could be a great opportunity to strengthen both my body and my spirit as I make improvements in my physical and spiritual health. So that is my goal for this week...to use my exercise time as an opportunity to pray and build my relationship with my Lord and Savior. And the plus factor maybe that I find the time passing more quickly as I walk and that I may be more refreshed when I am finished.
Not only Walking With Jesus but focusing totally on Him.....
Friday, November 7, 2008
Dinner Guest con't
Walking with Jesus: To Levi's House for Dinner con't
Mark 2:17-20 Jesus came to call sinners, not the righteous
Meditation: The Lord's Food
The cross-offered, risen Word still comes to fill us where we are emptiest, hungriest--where we have discovered the inability of calories to nourish our inner selves.
There where we are filled with sounds that fade,
with hopes that disappear,
with dreams that dissolve,
with good intentions gone astray,
with promises to ourselves broken,
with self-constructed missions designed to give life meaning
that seem to circle into zeros.
Come and eat here at this table.
Take your spirit's fill.
Here is the wine and bread without price.
Here is the free gift of sweet-tasting freedom---of the fullness of forgiveness
and hope that are eternal.
Here, finally, is the meal of your life--for your life.
You are what you eat? Perhaps. but even more, here at Christ's table, we are nothing at all until we have eaten.
Am I learning the good health requires more than simply eating right and exercising. Am I making time for prayer and meditation every day?
Walking with Jesus through this journey....
Mark 2:17-20 Jesus came to call sinners, not the righteous
Meditation: The Lord's Food
The cross-offered, risen Word still comes to fill us where we are emptiest, hungriest--where we have discovered the inability of calories to nourish our inner selves.
There where we are filled with sounds that fade,
with hopes that disappear,
with dreams that dissolve,
with good intentions gone astray,
with promises to ourselves broken,
with self-constructed missions designed to give life meaning
that seem to circle into zeros.
Come and eat here at this table.
Take your spirit's fill.
Here is the wine and bread without price.
Here is the free gift of sweet-tasting freedom---of the fullness of forgiveness
and hope that are eternal.
Here, finally, is the meal of your life--for your life.
You are what you eat? Perhaps. but even more, here at Christ's table, we are nothing at all until we have eaten.
Am I learning the good health requires more than simply eating right and exercising. Am I making time for prayer and meditation every day?
Walking with Jesus through this journey....
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Dinner Guest
Walking with Jesus: To Levi's House, for dinner
Mark 2:15 & 16 (The Message Bible) Jesus eats with sinners
15 Later Jesus and his disciples were at home having supper with a collection of disreputable guests. Unlikely as it seems, more than a few of them had become followers.
16 The religion scholars and Pharisees saw him keeping this kind of company and lit into his disciples: "What kind of example is this, acting cozy with the riff-raff?"
The meditation talks about "you are what you eat". I'm thinking if that is true then I must be the garbage dump! For years now I have eaten when I'm nervous, relaxed, together with family & friends, alone, busy, tired. It saddens me to say that it has become my comfort. As in verse 16 "What kind of example is this?"
The question I'm facing now is "Am I ready to move closer into what the Lord is calling me to?" Am I willingly to leave some things behind. I know that God will not share my time and attention with other "gods". And yes this even includes necessary and good things like food.
This is a fine line because on one hand food can become an idol in my life but I don't want to go to the other extreme and let getting healthy become an idol either. God doesn't want to share me with anything or anyone that takes my eyes off Him. He wants ALL of me.
I have taken the easy road for years now. It's time to tear down the roadblocks and keep Walking with My Jesus.......
Mark 2:15 & 16 (The Message Bible) Jesus eats with sinners
15 Later Jesus and his disciples were at home having supper with a collection of disreputable guests. Unlikely as it seems, more than a few of them had become followers.
16 The religion scholars and Pharisees saw him keeping this kind of company and lit into his disciples: "What kind of example is this, acting cozy with the riff-raff?"
The meditation talks about "you are what you eat". I'm thinking if that is true then I must be the garbage dump! For years now I have eaten when I'm nervous, relaxed, together with family & friends, alone, busy, tired. It saddens me to say that it has become my comfort. As in verse 16 "What kind of example is this?"
The question I'm facing now is "Am I ready to move closer into what the Lord is calling me to?" Am I willingly to leave some things behind. I know that God will not share my time and attention with other "gods". And yes this even includes necessary and good things like food.
This is a fine line because on one hand food can become an idol in my life but I don't want to go to the other extreme and let getting healthy become an idol either. God doesn't want to share me with anything or anyone that takes my eyes off Him. He wants ALL of me.
I have taken the easy road for years now. It's time to tear down the roadblocks and keep Walking with My Jesus.......
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Back Home
**Reason for not posting yesterday.....Yesterday was spent traveling to Barnes Retina Institute to get my checkup. Needless to say after the testing, I don't see very well for the rest of the day. No being on the computer or reading or this was really sad, no being outside (and yesterday was so beautiful). My eyes got a clean bill of health, will I shouldn't say that b/c they aren't healthy but there hasn't been any changes...Thank God!!!
Walking with Jesus: Jesus Returns to Capermaum
Mark 2:1-12 Jesus heals a paralytic brought to Him by the man's friends
Jesus had returned back home to Capermaum and word got out that he was there. The Bible says a crowd gathered, jamming the entrance so no one could get in or out to listen to Jesus teach the Word. How cool is it that this man had four friends who would stop at nothing to get him to Jesus. It's sad in this era of e-mail, online shopping and test messaging. we seem more detached than ever before from our family, friends, and neighbors. I wonder if today people would take the time to get "their friend" to where Jesus is? A better question is, would I take the time? I need to support and I need the support of my friends and family. Overcoming problems and celebrating blessings is always easier with support from others. I am so thankful for the people who have supported me as I start this long journey of getting healthy. Your kind words and encouragement means the world to me....
Keep walking with Jesus.....
Walking with Jesus: Jesus Returns to Capermaum
Mark 2:1-12 Jesus heals a paralytic brought to Him by the man's friends
Jesus had returned back home to Capermaum and word got out that he was there. The Bible says a crowd gathered, jamming the entrance so no one could get in or out to listen to Jesus teach the Word. How cool is it that this man had four friends who would stop at nothing to get him to Jesus. It's sad in this era of e-mail, online shopping and test messaging. we seem more detached than ever before from our family, friends, and neighbors. I wonder if today people would take the time to get "their friend" to where Jesus is? A better question is, would I take the time? I need to support and I need the support of my friends and family. Overcoming problems and celebrating blessings is always easier with support from others. I am so thankful for the people who have supported me as I start this long journey of getting healthy. Your kind words and encouragement means the world to me....
Keep walking with Jesus.....
Monday, November 3, 2008
Traveling throughout Galilee
Walking with Jesus: Traveling Throughout Galilee
Mark 1:39-45 Jesus heals a man with leprosy
As I look back at my week, I was surprised to see how many steps I actually took. I have to tell you, I expected more, a lot more. I understand that taking time to exercise or making time to be physically active is a journey, just like many other challenges in my live. But I want it now!!! Although I didn't meet my goal steps each day, I must stay focused and refuse to give up. I must look at the fact that I did make progress.
Isaiah 40:31..."I will soar on wings like eagles; I will run and not grow weary, I will walk and not be faint."
Today's meditation was a prayer. I couldn't say it any better....
Lord, I come into Your presence seeking a gracious blessing. But I dare to ask for an outrageous portion of Your grace. I ask that You not simple equip me but that you chase me out into Your world.
Make me a person of vision who looks not in but out, not back but forward, not down but up, not at what cannot be done but what might be accomplished by Your Spirit.
Make me someone who seeks mountains, not valleys, narrow paths instead of wide and easy ways, sending places instead of resting places, starts instead of finishes, horizons instead of waysides, tomorrows instead of yesterdays.
Give me running shoes instead of wool-lined slippers, alarm clocks instead of sleep switches, gas pedals instead of brakes, coaster wagons instead of armchairs, sailboats instead of sandcastles, binoculars instead of microscopes, jogging suits instead of lounge pajamas.
Make me a person who startles even myself with the power that You give. For all I do is moved by Your breath, enveloped by Your Spirit, filled with the wind of Your grace and resounds to Your glory and not mine.
Give me wings to fly like eagles. I pray in Jesus' name and Amen.
Mark 1:39-45 Jesus heals a man with leprosy
As I look back at my week, I was surprised to see how many steps I actually took. I have to tell you, I expected more, a lot more. I understand that taking time to exercise or making time to be physically active is a journey, just like many other challenges in my live. But I want it now!!! Although I didn't meet my goal steps each day, I must stay focused and refuse to give up. I must look at the fact that I did make progress.
Isaiah 40:31..."I will soar on wings like eagles; I will run and not grow weary, I will walk and not be faint."
Today's meditation was a prayer. I couldn't say it any better....
Lord, I come into Your presence seeking a gracious blessing. But I dare to ask for an outrageous portion of Your grace. I ask that You not simple equip me but that you chase me out into Your world.
Make me a person of vision who looks not in but out, not back but forward, not down but up, not at what cannot be done but what might be accomplished by Your Spirit.
Make me someone who seeks mountains, not valleys, narrow paths instead of wide and easy ways, sending places instead of resting places, starts instead of finishes, horizons instead of waysides, tomorrows instead of yesterdays.
Give me running shoes instead of wool-lined slippers, alarm clocks instead of sleep switches, gas pedals instead of brakes, coaster wagons instead of armchairs, sailboats instead of sandcastles, binoculars instead of microscopes, jogging suits instead of lounge pajamas.
Make me a person who startles even myself with the power that You give. For all I do is moved by Your breath, enveloped by Your Spirit, filled with the wind of Your grace and resounds to Your glory and not mine.
Give me wings to fly like eagles. I pray in Jesus' name and Amen.
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