Category: Worship

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Pivot, Worship

Cheerful and Connected

On Sunday, I went to church three times… and had so much fun! At one point, I told someone I might as well bring my sleeping bag and stay. She laughed and mentioned they do have a couple of showers on-site! 😀

To start, Lydia and I went to the first service at 8:30 a.m., like usual. We sat with a friend and caught up with her afterward. Typically, this may include discussing our week or the sermon. We encourage each other and may even pray for each other.

When the second service started at 10 a.m., Lydia and I left to pick up Starbucks for another friend. We chatted with her and played with her little girl for a while. Our visit was also a cover to pick up a package for Lydia’s birthday this week. I had the package delivered to our friend’s house so she wouldn’t see it in advance. My friend rewrapped it so Lydia didn’t catch on. 😉

Then, during the 11:30 a.m. service, we were back at church to help with the OASIS group. We set the tables and helped serve the food, which was ribs, scalloped potatoes, Caesar salad, and a pumpkin dessert. The older folks are friendly and appreciative. Later, Lydia mentioned how many people greeted us on Sunday, both in OASIS and at church in general.

After that, I ran Lydia home and hung out for a few minutes before heading back to church for a routine business meeting. I sat with some other friends while we heard about some financial updates and learned more about building updates as we remodel.

Free Pumpkin Pie Whipped Cream photo and picture

Finally, I came home and did a few tasks before catching up with family over Zoom. 🙂 Thankfully, I had energy throughout the day and felt like it boosted my mood. I felt encouraged, not drained!

Sunday was a bit of a wildcard initially, since I wasn’t sure how the timing was going to work out! I had prayed earlier and trusted God to direct our steps. In doing so, I saw just how connected we truly are in the context of community. 

Our church is fairly large, and now with three services, it is easy to forget about people or miss seeing them. I might go weeks without seeing certain friends, though I might remember to text them during the week or month. But Sunday was a fun eye-opener for Lydia and a nice reminder of all God is doing in us and through us.

Hebrews 10:23-25 says, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

It was fun to see many familiar faces on Sunday. I’m glad that Lydia recognized the connections we have with others and saw the joy that comes from serving God. Being a part of the Body of Christ is a wonderful gift!

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God, thanks for helping us be the Church, the Body of Christ. May we grow and mature in Jesus and draw all people unto You. May we bring You glory, in Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Are you connected to a local church? Do you serve there regularly, or are you waiting to get involved? What is holding you back?

Task: Pray about getting more connected at church. It is good for your faith and builds others up… you are needed! Find something to do that blends your personality, spiritual gifts, and passions. Then, you will love showing up and serving! Note: If it’s a total drain on you, it’s probably not quite the right fit. It should be a sacrifice, but also bring you joy!

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Personality, Wisdom, Worship

An Ebenezer

I’ve had some really special experiences with God recently! It started Saturday night when Lydia debriefed from her youth convention before bed. She shared about the parable of the talents and was concerned that she was not doing “enough” for God. Lydia felt like she should do more, but had doubts about her talents.

I worked with her to bring relief and understanding. I explained that she is only thirteen, so she can’t drive and has little money to give. Still, she is capable of obeying and honoring me, doing her best at school, and being a good friend. I reminded her that God’s expectations of her are not a factor in obtaining His love!

I think we all feel the same way sometimes—at least I know I do. I sometimes lose sight of my talents, and it is easy to feel like I’m not making a difference.

A few minutes after lights-out for Lydia, a dear friend called me for help and input. We ended up talking for about two-and-a-half hours! It was around midnight by the time I went to bed, but it was worth it to help my friend!

Free Bench Park photo and picture

I was amazed that God used me right after Lydia expressed concern about how He used her! I woke up early for church and let Lydia sleep in a little. I wanted her to feel restored before another busy week.

The church service was powerful, as the Holy Spirit was moving in our hearts. We had less of a sermon and more of a heartfelt message. We alternated worship with talking about topics including communion and generosity. We had a time of healing, anointing with oil, and prayer.

During the service, people went forward with ministry needs. Pastors prayed for them and anointed them with oil. My neck and upper back have been hurting for over a month, but I decided not to go forward. My confidence was in God, and so I thought, “I don’t need to go up front. By faith, I am already healed and anointed in Jesus’ Name!”

After the service, I caught up with a friend. When she left, I decided to go up for prayer after all. I still had my earlier confidence, but wanted to mark the moment with an “ebenezer,” which means “stone of help.” Sometimes it helps to cement an experience like this. Anyway, I simply asked for prayer to cover me with God’s grace since there’s been a lot on my plate this season!

Free Ginkgo Autumn Leaves photo and picture

I met a new friend, and as she prayed, God spoke to my heart. He confirmed several things, and the takeaway is that He sees me, loves me, and is pleased with me. I felt like God spoke to me about some future opportunities, too. What a blessing.

Then, I ran home to get Lydia and returned to the church to serve during the third service. We already served a couple of weeks ago, but they needed some more help. It was a good chance to use more of our talents.

Fast-forward to Monday. We headed to the chiropractor after work. My neck and shoulders have had ongoing pain, but it has been worse lately. This time, my chiropractor tried a different technique. Instead of lying down, I sat in a chair while she gently adjusted me. It worked and I felt an immediate release of tension!

I was in awe that God did that for me! What a gracious Father! I’m hopeful it will continue to stabilize in the coming days. The pain is 99.9% gone unless I tweak my neck in a certain direction. But I have a lot better range of motion now. I’m calling it healed and will continue to work it out!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for all Your kindness to me! Help me use my talents and all the gifts You’ve given me for Your glory and fame. In Jesus’ Name Amen

Question: How has God been working in your life lately? Are you coming to Him in faith and resting in His goodness, or are you just seeking what He can do for you?

Task: Check out this classic hymn, and listen for the word “ebenezer!”

Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

A Day Off with Jesus

On Monday, I was off from work due to Columbus Day. Normally, I would set up a massage or do something relaxing. But, this year, I had a relatively full agenda!

I did sleep in an hour or so; I did not have to get up super early because Lydia was a few hours away at her Congress event. I woke up and did a little stretching, made some coffee and breakfast, spent time with God, noticed the beautiful fall colors outside, did some laundry, and started my blog post early. I had fun with Jesus and invited Him to come with me!

Free reading cozy coffee illustration

Later in the morning, I went to church for a ‘staff chapel.’ I am not on staff, but was invited as part of the leadership class I am taking. It was cool to have a peek behind the scenes and also to see the heart of our pastors. I talked with some new-to-me people and enjoyed some delicious food before we worshiped, took communion, and prayed.

Actually, we prayed a lot, lol! We prayed for a few key needs and for individual dreams, too. We wrote some God-sized dreams and prayer requests and then swapped them so others could pray. We did this a few times, and I enjoyed lifting up those I knew and some I hadn’t officially met yet. Some were housing or vehicle needs, while others were simply dreams for travel or fun adventures.

I left feeling even more connected to God and my church. I praised him as I left to fill my car with gas and accomplish more tasks. Back home, I checked my laundry, made lunches for the work-week, exercised, and continued writing this blog post.

Then, I spent a few hours studying for the leadership class and reviewing the material for a five-week series I will be teaching at work. It was a good, quiet afternoon, and I was glad to catch up on one class and get ahead on the other!

Free Forest Sun photo and picture

In the evening, I went to a new friend’s house to discuss the church’s leadership class. We met as a large group last week, so this week, just the ladies met to review the material we are going through and get to know each other. I appreciated the fellowship and hospitality!

Then, Lydia returned home from her Congress outing. She did well, and it was fun to hear all about her experience. We quickly got ready for bed, and that was it!

Even though I had a full day, I was glad to spend it with Jesus. Sometimes, life gets so busy we run, run, run… and forget to check in with Him along the way. Whatever is on your to-do list today, remember to bring Jesus with you!

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God, thanks for guiding my steps, coming with me each day, and helping me complete everything. Help me feel Your presence and trust You even when I don’t. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Do you actively ask Jesus to join you as you go about your day?

Task: Spend at least the first fifteen minutes sitting in the presence of God each morning. Talk to Him about your day, any concerns you have, or any changes He wants you to make.

Posted on in Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom, Words, Worship

Getting Through It with Jesus

The last two weeks have been rather tough. I’ve been very “busy” with a lot going on, not to mention the news has been particularly sad and heavy. It’s exhausting!

I’ve had a lot of individual activities and events to remember. I have been spent time preparing for this very week. Maybe you can relate!

Additionally, I tend to hold stress in my upper back and shoulders, and then it travels upward. So, I’ve had sore muscles and a headache on and off this whole time.

Monday was especially full, with a big presentation at work followed by a full day of seeing patients. After that, I had a training at church and did not get home until 9 p.m. Lydia had an extracurricular activity and walked home afterward, but I didn’t see her until it was bedtime.

I don’t know about you, but sometimes when things get hectic, it’s easy just to want it to be over already. Now, all my activities on Monday were good and I looked forward to them.

But I was also praying I could get through the day and be able to relax. On my walk into work, I said, “Lord, just help me get through everything today.” And as soon as I said that, the thought occurred to me, “I don’t need to get through it, I just need to stay close to Jesus.”

Free Coneflowers Flowers photo and picture

All throughout the day, I had peace. The presentation went really well, and I was very glad that God helped me. I had practiced, of course, but I had revised my slides on Thursday and then we also had company last weekend. So, I was familiar, but maybe not fully comfortable with the content.

I had several patients back-to-back after my presentation and barely ate my lunch. I did not get a full thirty-minute break anywhere, but I had God’s peace and joy as I went about my day. It was a little hectic, but He was with me.

I ran home after work to add air to my tires. The pressure sensor went off while I was driving, but I only had time to check the tires and fix the one that was slightly low. I’ll have to do a more thorough inspection later. Then, I was off to church.

We had a small meal catered in, and I was a little early. But that gave me time to focus and decompress a little. Then, we had a great time of fellowship and learning about spiritual formation and spiritual disciplines. It was dark when I left for home, but I was happy.

On my way there, my check oil light came on. No big deal, lol, I will check that and my tires! I briefly checked in with Lydia before she went to bed, but I still had several things to do to prepare for Tuesday. I prayerfully only did what was most necessary before heading to bed myself.

Free Flower Desert photo and picture

I’m sure you have had days or weeks like mine. You may just be pushing through to get through the day, week, month, or season. It is easy to try to handle everything all on your own. But what if you invite Jesus into the mess? What would that look like and feel like?

Your day may still be a little crazy, but God already knows what you need. He can change your schedule and/or empower you to handle it with grace. Ultimately, God directs your steps anyway. You don’t have to do it all or “get through it” on your own!

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Father God, thanks for taking my burdens and replacing them with grace. Thanks for peace, joy, and rest during life’s challenges. Help me trust You more. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: Have you been resting in Jesus or STRESS-ing out?

Task: Check in with Jesus regularly, and even more when your day is chaotic!

Posted on in Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Pivot, Wisdom, Worship

Power = Strength + Speed

As a Registered Dietitian, I am required to complete a certain amount of continuing education each year. There are lots of ways to accomplish this, and I often buy a book and test worth a lot of credits all at once.

I’m currently working on a course and book titled “Hold Onto Your Muscle!” by Robert Iafelice, who is also a dietitian. The content is really good so far, and I am able to use the information in my work.

It has taken me months to get through the book because I am being reminded of fascinating things I already learned, or looking up new things I am questioning. Additionally, I am filling out the test as I go, so it takes a little time to read and make sure I understand what is being said and that my answers are correct.

Free ai generated woman success illustration

Sometimes I visit the local bookstore to enjoy a cup of coffee while going through the material. I also did this when writing my book, because it is quiet and helps me stay in one spot (so nothing gets disturbed) without feeling like I need to clean or do chores at home.

Recently, I was in chapter eight and came across the ‘equation’ that power = strength + speed. Now, in context, this was important. But, immediately, I thought about God’s Power. I envisioned His strength and His speed in helping us.

God’s power is renowned in the Bible and throughout history, in various capacities around the world. Jesus and the Holy Spirit are included in how this manifests through us. But God doesn’t really need help from people; He likes to include us!

In Nehemiah 8:10, we read that the joy of the Lord is our strength. We find our rest in Him and all He has done for us. We don’t fight for Victory, we fight from Victory!

Then, in Ephesians 6:10-18, we learn about putting on the full armor of God. Thankfully, there’s no need to fight battles fully exposed!

 God is so powerful that all He has to do is speak, but we also see references to God’s outstretched right arm. I envision God’s power in this way: He is more than able and willing, plus He is quick to help when we call on Him.

“Natalie needs me? Watch out, here I come!”

May be an image of text that says 'BE STRONG IN THE LORD AND IN HIS MIGHTY POWER EPHESIANS 6:10'

God’s power is best seen when He comes to our defense or aid. Come Hell or high water, there’s nothing He can’t do for us! So, we don’t need to try to do everything on our own. Check in frequently with Him and tell Him what you need. (That’s prayer!)

One example of this is Peter walking on water and then falling into the water. He was brave but faltered and cried for help. Jesus was right there immediately to pull Him out! (At least Peter tried when no one else did. It does not require faith to stay in the boat!)

God always moves when we have faith in Him, and in the New Testament, Jesus mentioned that the people’s unbelief hindered him. We may not fully see what God is up to, and it might take a while to understand. But He will never let us down!

In fact, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives in us and is at work in us! God is with us and for us. He wants to use us and make us more like Jesus. But, we have to let Him! Let’s be malleable and see what He will do!

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Heavenly Father, You are so good. Thanks for always helping us in time of need. May we be in awe of Your power, strength, and speed. Help us trust in You, even when we can’t fully see or understand what You are doing. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: Have you ever envisioned yourself putting on the full armor of God each morning? Would that help you connect more with God’s power and Holy Spirit?

Tasks: Read more about the power of God’s outstretched arm! Find joy in Him today!

Posted on in Miscellaneous, Personality, Pivot, Worship

Rest Is A Command

Yesterday, I saw this quote on Substack, in green below. I took a screenshot to share with you, but what stood out to me is that rest is not an option or nice suggestion. As we read in Hebrews 4, it’s a command. Rest is found in Jesus alone.

In Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV), Jesus said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Jesus gives us the permission and freedom to make rest a priority.

Rest is a way we show our faith. We prove our trust in God when we are willing to lay aside our work and take a break. Even when we still have a lot to do, we understand that He will provide for us. We step away from busyness and choose to let God work on our behalf. He can craft circumstances in our favor, so whatever we get “done” will be enough.

Rest does not mean hurrying to finish our ‘work’ to block time to relax. It can involve pacing your tasks, but that’s not the point. We should rest – and check in with the Lord – either way.

Rest means leaving your to-do list, if needed. This one is hard for me to remember. I feel like I need to get everything done first. I am learning to manage my energy and lean into God’s rest, which also includes Sabbath. We unplug and turn off all the noise to walk with the Lord at His pace.

Rest can include going to bed at a decent time. I’m constantly working on this. Somehow, it changes each season for me, but I am getting more sleep than I used to! Rest days from exercise are also important because your body gets stronger with recovery.

As I incorporate more rest, my house might just be a little messier… but I am enjoying myself more! I like watching the bunnies play outside and listening to the birds sing. Last night, I was mesmerized by the pouring rain and lightning, and I took a moment to thank the Lord for His provision to keep me warm and dry at home.

Free Colorful Zinnia Blooming photo and picture

Rest is not laziness. It takes a lot of effort to learn how to chill! It is challenging to let go and not try to figure out all the details. Rest requires setting aside certain expectations and people pleasing. But, the joy and peace, are worth it.

Rest is part of restoration. God often brings healing in our downtime. We tend to race ahead and risk missing all He has for us. Pause periodically to check in with the Lord and see what He has for you. Find His rhythm for your life. I promise it is for your benefit.

This song has been on my heart this week. I keep singing these lyrics over and over: “Everything I need, my Father has it. The Lord will provide.”

God is so good, and He is not “empty-handed.” He gives us infinite blessings, and it’s our job to rest in Him and trust Him to provide. He loves showing off His power on our behalf. But, we have to let him!

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Heavenly Father, thanks for all You do for me. Help me walk at Your pace and not run ahead. Give me peace and rest as I trust in You. I know You have good things in store for me. Help me wait on You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How are you entering God’s rest this week? Is it difficult for you to relax?

Task: God gives us so much grace through the principle of rest. Slow down, hit pause, listen, wait for Him, and make every effort to enter His rest today.

Posted on in Gratitude, Miscellaneous, Personality, Pivot, Prayer, Wisdom, Worship

Worthy of Praise

We sing a song at church called “Praise” by Elevation Worship. It is a fun song to sing, but the message is also important. Here’s one section of the lyrics:

I’ll praise when I feel it
And I’ll praise when I don’t
I’ll praise ’cause I know
You’re still in control
Because my praise is a weapon
It’s more than a sound (more than a sound)
Oh, my praise is the shout
That brings Jericho down
 
 
God is worthy of our praise whether we feel like it or not. Praising Him is not always easy or enjoyable. Sometimes, it is downright difficult. Distraction, pain, suffering, grief – there are so many things to take our eyes off Jesus. Still, praise and worship are tools to show others how great God is.
 
When we give God credit for His work in our lives, we magnify His glory and shine attention back to Jesus. Our pride and self-promotion take a worthy hit in the process. As we redirect our focus, we see things His way and trust Him at a deeper level.  This frees us from our chains and confuses our enemy.
 
It’s difficult to praise God when things are going wrong, but it blesses God and brings blessings upon us, too. Praising God may or may not change our circumstances, but it does change our hearts as the Holy Spirit moves and tweaks our perspective. Talk about transformation!

 
Praise is a timely reminder that people will fail us, but our Creator and Almighty God, never will. He is infinitely faithful and good. He is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in love. Our Heavenly Father will never leave nor forsake His children. 
 
Praise has the power to prepare us for God’s greater work. As the Holy Spirit redirects us, we are open to what He wants us to do. We align our vision with His and gain confidence to move forward with intention.
 
Praising God has the potential to prevent panic when things go awry. We can praise, pray, and plan in advance! Then, whenever a problem does arise, we are prepared.
 
Praise can be a form of prayer, which is really just communicating with God. The acronym ACTS starts with Adoration, then Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication. In some ways, you can praise, worship, and pray all at the same time!
 
Don’t worry if you are a good singer. You can shout your praises or whisper them. There is always a reason to praise. Just come and give God the glory for all He has done for you. He just wants your heart!
 
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Heavenly Father, I praise You for Your mighty works! Thanks for all the ways You love me and provide for me. Help me walk worthy of Your calling today. In Jesus’ Name, Amen
 
Questions: What are some things you are praising God for today? Do you like to sing, or shout, or dance, or journal?
 
Tasks: If you need a primer on praise, the Psalms are a great place to start. I came across Psalm 93 today and encourage you to check it out! Also, here are some of my other blog posts on praise.
Posted on in Being Gracious, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Kindness, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Personality, Pivot, Wisdom, Worship

Becoming Like Jesus

“I have found that trying to become more like Jesus yields far better results than trying to become a better me.”

I came across the quote above last week on Substack, and it has stuck with me since. (I could not find the original source.) The process of becoming more like Jesus is a work of the Holy Spirit, commonly referred to as sanctification. It is not always fun or easy, but it is really the main work of God in our lives.

Our Heavenly Father wants us to come to Him just as we are; we don’t need to do a bunch of good things to earn His favor (that’s grace). At the same time, He also loves us enough not to leave us the way we are. So, God transforms us into the character likeness of Jesus and makes us holy, as He is holy. (Holy does not mean perfect, but set apart.) He is fitting us for Heaven!

Sanctification occurs when the Holy Spirit checks our heart and prompts us to do something different than we would in our own human power. This might be giving money or a favorite belonging when you’re feeling stingy. This might be biting your tongue instead of letting someone know what’s really on your mind. You know you are on the right track when something doesn’t seem fair, but you listen and follow God’s lead anyway.

Free Mountain National Park photo and picture

Slowly but surely, we start to think and act like Jesus. Our hearts become more aligned with His, and we are able to see things from a Heavenly perspective. The Holy Spirit is patient but diligent. If we make a mistake, no worries, He can convict us and set us straight. He is not condemning, but gracious with us if we are humble and repent (Romans 8:1).

Becoming like Jesus is never time wasted, even if it takes a while to come full circle. Often, we have to lay aside our desires and expectations to serve someone else. We can hold space for God to move when we want to rush ahead. We can submit our ideas and plans and take His on instead. We may not fully see the impact of obedience, but, it is always worth the sacrifice.

We will never be perfect on this side of Heaven, but we will receive an eternal reward if we don’t give up. We don’t have to be right or justified, we just need to follow Jesus.

Sanctification often involves serving other people, which helps refine us. It may include waking early to spend time with the Lord before a busy day at work. It may include tending to the kids and letting your spouse sleep in. Or, maybe it’s praying for that certain person who drives you a little crazy. 🙂

Even recently, I have been learning that I don’t have to figure out what I want to do next in life. I don’t have to worry or try to become a more ‘exciting’ person. This frees me up to let God shine in my life more than my own accomplishments. As John the Baptist said, “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3:30).

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God, thanks for saving me and preparing me for Heaven. Change my heart, Lord, and make me like You. Holy Spirit, continue to move in my life. Thanks for not giving up on me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Question: How are you becoming more like Jesus… today, this week, this month, so far this year?

Tasks: Read Romans 8 and also Romans 12. Instead of running after your dreams and goals, submit them to Jesus. Chase after Him and be transformed.

Posted on in Fear, Faith, and Moving Forward book, Fear/Don't Fake Brave, Gratitude, Journey of Grace, Life is Short, Miscellaneous, Perseverance, Wisdom, Worship

A “With Us” God

This week, I am praying and reflecting on the great losses of life and property in recent Texas floods. Natural disasters, like fires, earthquakes, and hurricanes, have also happened, though the Texas floods hit home because Lydia is at camp this week.

In the midst of tragedy, including wars, people tend to ask “Why didn’t God prevent this?” and Where is God in all of this?” I don’t have all the answers, but I have asked those same questions. I am absolutely sure He is right in it with us. He is Emmanuel, God with us, or as someone once said, He is a “with us” God.

God is outside of Time, but He’s right here, too. He can be everywhere all at once. There’s no place He’d rather be than with those He loves.

God is a loving Father who fights for His children. He, too, faced heartbreaking loss when Jesus died on the cross. Jesus could have shunned the cross, but He knew it was the only way. In fact, this was His redemptive plan from before the beginning of Time. So, I don’t know His purposes in Texas, but I know He understands and grieves with us.

Free Poland Castle photo and picture

God is our refuge and shield. He is a safe place, a hiding place. We can run to Him for protection. As we draw near to Him, He draws near to us. I imagine God holding and carrying the girls from Mystic Camp, along with so many others who were swept into the water. I am praying everyone is found.

God’s delay is not absence or apathy. His timing is just different, and His ways are higher than ours. He is sovereign over the good and bad. (He does not send bad things upon us, but uses them for our eventual good.) We can trust Him even when we can’t see how it all turns out.

Our Heavenly Father helps us deal with fear, and He comforts us in our grief. We, too, are called to mourn with those who mourn; we can pour out all our emotions to Jesus because He cares for us.

As sad as tragedies are, I cannot imagine facing them without Jesus because He is our only Hope. Every day, we are getting closer to when Jesus will come back. One could say things will continue to get worse before they get better…

Nonetheless, our main focus is to stay close to Jesus and keep our eyes on Him. Whatever you are facing today, lean into God’s love, mercy, and grace. He is faithful and good.

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Father God, thanks for being with us in the good and bad. Please be with those in Texas who are dealing with the aftermath of the flooding. Give them Your comfort and peace. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How do you reconcile life’s tragedies? Do you turn to Jesus or your own insights?

Task: Read Psalm 91. When the unfathomable occurs, bring everything to the Only One who can hold it all together and work it out for your good and His glory. It will take time, and you may never fully understand it, but He can handle all that concerns you.

 

Posted on in Being Gracious, Kindness, Life is Short, Little Free Library, Miscellaneous, Worship

Everyday Kindness

These days, we find ourselves in a fast-paced, highly politicized world, and we must keep our eyes on Jesus, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6). It can take a lot of discernment to see where He is working and how I should join Him. Many of the world’s “causes” are important, but I am not called to go and get involved in each one of them.

There are so many issues, and sometimes it feels like I am not doing enough. Have you ever felt that way? Time feels short, and problems accumulate faster than solutions. Often, I feel called to donate money and pray. However, I also keep my eyes and heart open to those who are in need of help and encouragement in my local community.

Every day, God gives us opportunities to share His love with others. Quite often, He does not require big or bold gestures, but simple acts of kindness…

Recently, at work, I heard about a special request. A hospice Veteran with ALS wanted to take a last ride in his son’s convertible. Our VA police helped the Veteran get into the vehicle. He had a look of pure joy. Over a hundred of us lined the front driveway of the VA to cheer and wave to him. It was also funny when people started cheering for the UPS and garbage trucks, too!

The Veteran also had another wish: to travel to Europe. This is a challenging task to accomplish, given his circumstances, but we were able to assist him by using a virtual reality headset. I’m sure it made a world of difference to this brave man.

Free Antique Car Mg photo and picture

On Sunday afternoon, my doorbell rang unexpectedly. I almost didn’t answer because I thought it was simply a routine package delivery. I’m glad I did because I met a family of four siblings. The kids asked to use my garden hose to fill up their water balloons. At first, I was skeptical, but then I realized they did not have access to a hose at their apartment building.

On the one hand, it is not my responsibility to provide for them, but a few gallons of water is not too much to pay to be a good neighbor. English might be their second language, so I want to make sure they feel safe and welcome. As we talked, I learned their ages range from second to ninth grade. I did not get many details, but I sent them home with their water balloons and some other water toys. If they come back, maybe I will offer them a popsicle!

Yesterday, I made Lydia and her friend frozen pizza and fruit for an impromptu dinner before loading her bike into my car and driving her home. An enterprising young neighbor also sold me a little bracelet to earn some money to fix up his bike.

Free Colorful Colourful photo and picture

For many years, I have had a Little Free Library in my front yard. On Monday, I chatted with a couple of ladies and pet their dog. One of them was happy that she had found a paperback of a book she has been listening to. I encouraged them to stop by anytime.

At work, I’ve had several “extra” patients who needed some help. One that stood out was a tube-feeding patient who has had several challenges. He called me with bad news; he is not long for this world. I offered encouragement, yet he is at total peace and is looking forward to seeing Jesus soon. I included that part in my chart note to inform others, per his request, but also to remind them of our eternal hope.

There are times when we need to take a firm stand for what is right. But with everyday kindness, little by little, we can change the world.

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God, thanks for showing me that I am making a difference in the lives of those around me. Thanks for each person listed above and for all of my readers. Help me continue to live for You and share your grace and love with others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen

Questions: How have you seen God at work this week? What can you do to join Him in blessing others?

Task: Don’t overthink kindness (like I sometimes do). Just start small and offer a smile, a listening ear, or a word of encouragement. It might be making a frozen pizza, contributing to a fundraiser, or offering a popsicle… it all counts!