No Wind

 

Gratitude Year 10 - Day 31: Today, I am grateful for no wind.

Growing  up less than an hour south of downtown Chicago, on the Midwest plain, I know a little about wind. I forget how windy it is back home, until I visit. Summer, fall, winter and spring... the calm days are fewer than the windy ones. The wind can be exhausting. Hold on to your skirts and hats, the gusts can be frequent and unexpected. 

We have experienced some bitter cold recently. Today was a little warmer. The deep chill will return soon, so I walked intentionally leisurely today. There was no wind. It was so refreshing to take in a deep breath of winter without flinching at the wind.

No wind makes the winter so much easier to tolerate.  I don't fear the wind, but it is painful sometimes. It tests our resilience. 

We'll take the beautiful winter days. They say a storm is on the way. We shall see. After all these years, radar still seems to be hit and miss in weather predictions. 

I laughed when a friend posted the possibility of snow being between 2 and 28 inches. That is a 26 inch variable. The fact of the matter is that it isn't about how much snow we get. It is about how much wind comes with it. Snow, on its own, can be managed. It is snow mixed with high winds that has the ability to bring life to a halt. 

"Then he asked them, “Where is your faith?” The disciples were terrified and amazed. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “When he gives a command, even the wind and waves obey him!' -Luke 8:25

What a fabulous scripture passage! When the storms begin to blow, this verse always brings me comfort. 

Today, I am grateful for no wind.

Reminders to not Steal the Pen

 

Gratitude Year 10 - Day 30: Today, I am grateful for reminders not to steal the pen. 

We all have favorite pens. My girlfriend, Susan, and I have shared a love of pens since college. I've been spoiled with purple flairs (one of my favorites) and I have a rainbow of InkJoy I use daily, too. At Christmas, I received a sparkly pen with my name on it. There are several other pens I adore for different purposes. 

A good pen is hard to hold on to... they often walk away. My dear friend, Holli, has a favorite pen. It occasionally (accidently) lands on someone else's desk. You don't want Holli to find your pen on her desk. (Laugh Out Loud...she knows I love her). It is easier for her to love us, if we don't steal her pen. 😉

The other day, students grabbed my sparkly pen from my desk and I did not show much Jesus in my knee jerk response. I was all over them with an  "Oh no, no, no" (more about germs than fear of them taking it). My response should have shown more grace and mercy. It is just a pen, but it sparkles and reminds me of the gift giver. 

Today, I saw a new twist on a familiar quote:

"God is still writing your story. Quit trying to steal the pen and trust the author." -Toby Mac 

Being in tune with the Master changes everything. Trusting him to write our story means letting Him have the pen. This verse from Habakkuk 2:2 reminds us to be ready to run.

"And the Lord answered me: “Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it." -Habakkuk 2:2

This verse has become near and dear to my heart. It is one of my "life verses". I keep it close to my heart and attempt to live in His light. I try to remember to let Him hold the pen. He never fails those who put their trust in Him. He is trustworthy. 

Today, I am grateful for reminders not to steal the pen.

Peacemakers

 

Gratitude Year 10 - Day 29: Today, I am grateful for the peacemakers.

Someone once said, "To err is human; to forgive is Divine". We all make mistakes, yet we don't always find grace easy to extend to fellow humans who wear the same imperfect human skin. Of course, there is a difference between intentional and accidental mistakes. It is easier to forgive when the hurt is unintentional. 

Someone who "stirs the pot" can bring about strife and division. They can create hurt and plant seeds of distrust and anger. It is hard to accomplish good things when there is no unity in the vision and the mission. 

Paul must have seen these trials in the early churches and wrote encouragement and instruction. He had his own disagreements and struggles with fellow believers. He saw what happened when hearts were divided. 

"eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace." -Ephesians 4:3

It sounds simple enough. But, we all have areas of pride and ego that get in the way. Humility is a unique, God-breathed strength that can help lead to peace and unity of the Spirit. Those who exercise humility and seek peace are still the game changers. They always have been. 

Today, I am grateful for the peacemakers.

In Spirit and In Truth

 

Gratitude Year 10 - Day 28: Today, I am grateful we can worship in spirit and in truth. 

Are there days your spirit is weary? Are there times when your spirit is lifted high. Are there situations where  your spirit knows you are in the presence of truth? 

My verse of the day today: 

"God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” -John 4:24

Such a simple instruction. We can let our hearts dance with delight because the God of the Universe inhabits our worship. Embrace the scripture, the prayer and the music that brings your spirit to a place of knowing you are in the presence of our mighty God. 

Do we look around and see where God is moving in our days? His hand is everywhere. We can see it if we pause and look for it. We can run from Him, but we can't hide. There is a unique peace that comes from letting our whole hearts worship Him. Nothing held back... in spirit and in truth.  

Today, I am grateful we can worship in spirit and in truth. 

God is Still Faithful

Gratitude Year 10 - Day 27: Today, I am grateful God is still faithful.

I loved this image. It looks so warm and cozy and it is very, very cold today. The sentiment really captured my heart today. After all life brings, we can be completely certain our God is still faithful. 

Our God is still faithful when we are celebrating. He is faithful when we are suffering. He is faithful when we are energized. He is faithful when we are exhausted. He is faithful when we are filled with laughter. He is faithful when our hearts are broken and grieving. Our God is faithful on the mountains and in the valleys.  

 "He who calls you is faithful;" -1 Thessalonians 5:24a 

He is always present. He is sometimes silent. He is a mystery. He is full of wonder. He is truth, justice and love. We do not always understand His ways, but we can count on His faithfulness. 

Breathe in. Breathe out. Lean into the shelter of His wings. 

Today, I am grateful God is still faithful.

Hand Cream

Gratitude Year 10 - Day 26: Today, I am grateful for healing hand creams.

I know I don't use hand creams as often as I should. I don't like my hands feeling gunky. (I think gunky is a word.) I don't like them sticky or slippery. Yet, in the winter season... especially with the frequent handwashing... I find my hands are a mess. Hand cream is more than a luxury, it literally helps to restore my hands to good health. Today, they are cracked and bleeding. 

I was blessed today when someone shared their hand cream. I came home and used my own. My hands need several more treatments... and I need to dab some aloe on them. 

In this season, I keep recalling the passage "and the leaves of the trees shall be for healing".  It is in Ezekiel and Revelation, too. Often, much of what we love in the hand creams we favor, comes from nature. 

Long day. Short post. Time for another hand treatment.

Today, I am grateful for healing hand creams.

Whatever Is Good

 

Gratitude Year 10 - Day 25: Today, I am grateful for whatever is good. 

This world is full of things that are far from good. In fact, things that are noble, right, pure, true and admirable stand out. They are, indeed, praiseworthy. 

The world loves to distract us with darkness. Evil is real, but so is truth, justice, mercy, grace and love. Our God did not abandon us. He left us His Holy Spirit to whisper comfort and encouragement. 

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." -Philippians 4:8

How do we find these things? We must pause and be watchful. They can show up in unexpected places. Where love resides, you can find these things. Love is not self seeking or selfish. Love is not boastful. It is not careless. Where there is love, good things abound. 

When Corrie Ten Boom spoke of the days in the concentration camps under Hitler's rule, she spoke not as much of the suffering but of the tiny little good things they could squeeze out of tragic and dismal days. She looked for God where most thought he would not go, and she found Him. She found Him to be big and strong... and very real. 

When the going gets tough and the days are long, think on the good things. 

Today, I am grateful for whatever is good. 

When Things Make Sense

 

Gratitude Year 10 - Day 24: Today, I am grateful when things make sense. 

My mind is a mix of the logical and the creative. Organized chaos can render many beautiful outcomes. Most think the two cannot co-exist, but I think they do. God is a god of order, but he allows chaos, too. In creation, he called the chaos into order. Genesis is always a fascinating read. 

As we go through life, there will be seasons with more questions than answers. There are times very little makes sense. We live in a world that is contaminated by sin and other dangers. We press on.

"It would be so nice if something made sense for a change." -Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland

Every once in a while, a picture becomes clearer and yes... some things come in to focus and make sense. When it happens, record it. We are quick to document the trials, but do we celebrate the times things make perfect sense? I need to get better about writing down when clarity comes. We observe and we wait.

Savor the good in this day. 

Today, I am grateful when things make sense. 

Shallum's Daughters

 

Gratitude Year 10 - Day 23: Today, I am grateful for Shallum's Daughters.

Shallum's daughters are some of the first women in the Bible noted for non-traditional female roles. I am so curious about them. They helped rebuild the wall around Jerusalem to protect the sacred city so central to their faith.

Nehemiah was known to them. Nehemiah's passion to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem was contagious. He was cupbearer to King Xerxes (yes, the same King who married Esther) and the King respected Nehemiah enough to offer aid in rebuilding the wall. Many hands were needed.

Typically, men were seen as the builders. Women needed all day to manage the home and tasks like making breads. Shallum's Daughters were granddaughters to Hallohesh, the ruler of half the district of Jerusalem. Who were these women? 

Perhaps, they were more affluent and had more time to do the things that interested them. Perhaps, they were good with their hands and wanted to do their part. The scriptures give few extra details, but it is clear they helped on the wall. They must have been fierce. 

"Next to him Shallum the son of Hallohesh, ruler of half the district of Jerusalem, repaired, he and his daughters." -Nehemiah 3:12 

Shallum's daughters must have felt they had something to pour into the project. Perhaps they were smart about architecture and building. Whatever inspired them, they did what they set out to do. 

I love that they did not let anyone intimidate them enough to keep them from the job. They did what they felt directed to do. Surely, they would be legends to the generations that followed. 

When God calls us according to His purpose, we feel the call. We can do ordinary tasks with extraordinary care and passion. We can step out into bigger adventures when we trust His heart and His hand. 

The book of Nehemiah is only 13 chapters, but don't read it too swiftly. There is much to learn and explore. 

Today, I am grateful for Shallum's Daughters.

Don't Look Back

 

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 22: Today, I am grateful for reminders to not look back. 

It is easy to focus on the past and what is behind us. Especially, when what is ahead looks scary or unknown. Lot's wife provides us with a lesson in looking behind instead of ahead. 

"But Lot’s wife looked back as she was following behind him, and she turned into a pillar of salt." -Genesis 19:26

The punishment seems drastic. But, we are told "the wages of sin is death". There are times consequences seem harsh and unfair, but in the light of God's holiness, we know sin is intolerable. Jesus provided the means of reconciliation. 

Jesus taking on our sins might seem unfair, because it is. Love stepped in and took our place. He paid the price so we could move forward and not look back. 

Today, I am grateful for reminders to not look back. 

When the Key Fits

 

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 21: Today, I am grateful when the key fits. 

I know we live in an age when traditional keys are used less and less. There is something about an old fashion key that is simple, satisfying and not impacted by electrical outages or network failures. Yes, an old fashioned key still has worth. 

This week, I needed to use some keys I rarely use. A couple of times I wasn't sure which key I needed. Some of my labels had fallen off or time had passed and I forgot which one I needed. When I finally had the right key, success was swift and easy. 

Looking for a lost or misplaced key is never fun. I wonder how many hours of my life have been spent looking for my car keys? Newer car fobs mean fewer lost keys for me. It never leaves my purse and I don't even have to dig for it. Oh the joy in finding lost keys!

I love this scripture:

"I am the living one. I died, but look—I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and the grave." -Revelation 1:18

The truth is, with keys, there is no deception. It fits, or it doesn't. Too many people walked with , talked with and spent time with Jesus after his resurrection to pretend it didn't happen. Too many saw the risen Savior. Many people were stunned by His announcement that he came that all might be saved, Jews and Gentiles. It was unexpected. 

Jesus is the key that unlocked the prophecies. Lessons learned and taught for years. "Those with ears let them hear." Many refused to hear, look and live.  He was the key that finally fit. And, we live in the grace of His choices that unlocked life, love and heaven for all who choose to believe and receive. (Earworm is singing "Wonderful the matchless grace of Jesus." )

He doesn't just hold the keys... He is the key... the key that fits! 

Today, I am grateful when the key fits.

The Call

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 20: Today, I am grateful God calls us according to His purpose.

It has been awhile since I've read "Everybody Always" by Bob Goff. His books are fun to read and inspiring. He loves loudly and with purpose. 

The quote in this image reminds me that God sees our potential. Moses did not perceive himself a leader. He tried to convince God his brother, Aaron, was better suited for the job. Noah did not see himself as a boat builder or a sailor. God knew Noah was up to the task. Sarah was old and tired. Peter had betrayed Jesus. Imperfect people have been used over and over again to His purpose.

This scripture fits: "And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them." -Romans 8:28 

God equips those he calls. On the job training is often His way. He leads us into unexpected places. It is where some of the best adventures happen. Answer the call. Embrace the journey. 

Today, I am grateful God calls us according to His purpose.

Warm Place To Sleep

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 19: Today, I am grateful for a warm place to sleep. 

It is 7 degrees outside, but it feels like -7. Wickedly cold! Any way you slice it, the outdoors are a dangerous place to be. 

I can't help but think of how many people lack a place to sleep in comfort. Homelessness is real. For many, their lives have been shattered in many different ways before they find themselves without a home to call their own. 

In the winter, without shelter the threat of death is real. I am grateful for the local agencies who act as Christ's hands and feet to those without a bed to call their own. Serving the "least of these" is following His instructions as to how we should treat others.

“Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets. -Matthew 7:12

It is the essence of all that is taught in the law and from the prophets. The ability to see a need and meet it is something to celebrate. 

If you don't have to think twice about a safe and cozy bed, you have much to be thankful for today. 

Today, I am grateful for a warm place to sleep.

Look for the Beautiful

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 18: Today, I am grateful we can look for beauty.

The winter landscape can be dreary. I love when people take the time to capture winter's magical moments in nature. Sunrise and sunsets... the moments quickly pass, but they can be glorious. This scripture comes to mind:

"Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time." - Ecclesiastes 3:11a 

In His time. Not my time. His time. 

There is beauty in unexpected places. This image is breathtaking. The wonder and majesty of nature cannot help declaring the glory of the Lord. 

When the bitter winds whip and the cold makes us ache, there is still beauty. We only need to pause and look. It is always there. We must have eyes willing to see. 

Today, I am grateful we can look for beauty.

Zip it up!

 

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 17: Today, I am grateful for reminders to zip my lips! 

We all know that person who cannot open their mouth without a complaint falling out. It is like they can't help themselves. It is not the person people want to hang out with for good company. Complaining and arguing can set a mood. 

Remember when you were a kid in the car with your mother? What is it about kids in cars. It brings out the worst in many of us. I am sure April, Matthew and I drove Mama crazy when she drove us places. I remember the "Don't make me stop this car." That meant we were going to be spanked if she did. I don't remember her actually doing it. The threat was enough, because we knew she meant business. 

 

"Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you." -Philippians 2:14 

As we grow into adults, we grow in wisdom and understanding... at least, we hope we do.  The complain train is exhausting to ride and gets us nowhere. We can be more intentional with our choices. 

Today, I am grateful for reminders to zip my lips! 

Love Notes

 

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 16: Today, I am grateful for "Love Notes".

Who doesn't love a "love note". Letters used to be part of a proper ladies daily routine. Writing and sending letters, I fear, is nearly a lost art. If you have growing grandchildren... especially far away... consider hand written notes sent by snail mail. 

If you have grandchildren nearby... or preteen and teens who are increasingly resistant to hugs... try leaving love notes on a post-it note in an unexpected place. Love notes change our days. When we know someone loves us and treasures us, we are more likely to tenaciously press on through tough times. Husbands and wives need love notes, too. 

As a preteen and teen, letters were my lifeline to friends far away. I would run to the mailbox (and we had a lane that was nearly a quarter of a mile long) hoping for a letter in the mail. (Just a note, many young teens are inexperienced in filling out an envelope for mailing. It really is a simple life skill.)

I am always taken back by the love poured into the letters in the New Testament. Most were letters to encourage believers in places where the disciples had shared the gospel and churches were growing. Letters offered guidance, correction and pure love and encouragement. 

"Everybody here sends greetings. Please give my greetings to the believers—all who love us. May God’s grace be with you all." -Titus 3:15

The Bible, in its entirety, is God's love letter to us. It is God's way of sharing His heart with us daily. 

Am I as hungry to read His word as I was as a teen waiting for letters from friends? Some days, yes. It is easy to let life get in the way. When we spend time alone with Him, our hearts crave more. Savor His love notes. 

Valentine's Day is on the horizon. Time to practice sharing love notes. 

Today, I am grateful for "Love Notes".

Freedom in Simple Truths

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 15: Today, I am grateful for simple truths that keep us free.

"Telling the truth is easier than keeping track of a lie." I remember someone saying this when I was a child and it stuck. I can't remember where I parked my car at Kroger most days, so there is no way I could keep track of a pack of lies. Not to mention, "Not bearing a false witness" made God's "Big Ten" list of things that displease him. They were not called suggestions, but commandments. 

There are some who lie with a convincing tongue and flashy smiles. Some lie more subtly and secretly. A lie creates a cloud of shame that becomes a burden too heavy to bear. Setting the record state is freeing. 

When Jesus walked with us, in human skin, the world was full of those who lied and those who told the truth. Some things change, but others remain the same. 

"Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” -John 8:31-32 

In this world today, lies abound. The truth is often resisted if it is uncomfortable. Most humans don't like being uncomfortable... me included. Still, it is by stepping outside of our comfort zone that we can find new freedom and joy. 

I remember when The Love of My Life wanted to try ziplining. I was 100% sure it was out of my comfort zone, but I was 110% sure it would be an unforgettable adventure with my guy. It was, indeed. And... God blessed us with a group where I believe we might have been the youngest members outside of the guides. They inspired me that we are never too old to cut loose of some of our fears and step out in new freedom. The outcome was all smiles and thrills (and maybe shouting Philippians 4:13 on the first zip). 

There is freedom in keeping with the truth. It simplifies our days.

Today, I am grateful for simple truths that keep us free.

Fresh Flowers In Winter

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 14: Today, I am grateful for fresh flowers in winter.

I have some fresh flowers on my table. They were a gift. They are absolutely gorgeous and bring a freshness to the room that only flowers can bring. They are over a week old and still look perfect. Floral Design, a local shop, has some of the best flower arrangements I have seen locally. 

Fresh flowers always remind me of the verse about how the lilies do not worry or fret. They trust the creator for all they need. Sun, water, fertile soil and a place to grow. 

"Can all your worries add a single moment to your life?  “And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are." -Matthew 6:27-29

Part of the winter blues can be the lack of blooms in our days. Why not buy a bunch and bring them home? You can find some great deals at Kroger. Fresh flowers in winter are a special delight. 

Today, I am grateful for fresh flowers in winter.

The God Who Sees Me

 

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 13: Today, I am grateful for the God who sees me.

This is one of those times I wish I could spend days on a passage to really take it in. There is so much to unpack and process. Hagar is one of the women in the Bible who we too quickly pass over. 

Her life is full of trials, disappointment and heartache. Her mistress mistreated her and put her in an uncomfortable situation. He had no vote. No choice. Abram and Sarai's impatience put her in a place she didn't want to be. Rejection hurts. When a child is involved, a mother is naturally fierce. Even a young one with no experience. 

Hagar knew how deep and wide brokenness could be. She makes my heart ache. She needed comfort and hope like she needed air. She needed affirmation that the God they spoke of in her presence was real. She had an up-close experience to answer her questions.  

The angel of the Lord found Hagar beside a spring of water in the wilderness, along the road to Shur.  The angel said to her, “Hagar, Sarai’s servant, where have you come from, and where are you going?”-Genesis 16:7-8

Still, God met her at her most broken places and made real promises of hope and a future. 

"Thereafter, Hagar used another name to refer to the Lord, who had spoken to her. She said, “You are the God who sees me.” She also said, “Have I truly seen the One who sees me?” So that well was named Beer-lahai-roi (which means “well of the Living One who sees me”). -Genesis 16:13-14a

Like a deep breath or a drink of fresh water, we can know that we have a God who always sees us. We are never abandoned or alone. We can run, but we cannot hide. (Yes... that old saying has Bible roots.)

Today, I am grateful for the God who sees me.

New Clothes

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 12: Today, I am grateful for new clothes. 

I don't buy new clothes very often. When I do find something I love, I might buy multiple colors. Mama Ina Mae taught me about classic clothes. My love of accessories helps me make something new out of classic pieces. 

I've not been brave enough to try the "capsule" closet that limits your wardrobe but the idea fascinates me. The Love of My Life would be thrilled if I had less in the closet. 

This was my scripture of the day:

"For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes. There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus." -Galatians 3:26-28  

New life in Christ is meant to feel like putting on new clothes. Such wonderful imagery, right? Imagine how that sounded 2000 years ago. New clothes were even more special back then. There was not much abundance and waste in their daily lives. Most of their days were spent attending to their basic needs. Fabrics were hand woven and hand stitched. Can you even imagine? Crazy.

We are often identified by our clothes. UPS drivers are known for their brown uniforms. Cubs fans are recognized in their Cubs blue and red shirts and jerseys. When we do our annual  Help-A-Thon, our students wear matching T-shirts. They helps us identify them when we are gathering them at service project sites. Our marching band wears matching uniforms. Medical professionals wear scrubs. Our clothes say something about us. 

"United with Christ in baptism and putting on Christ is like putting on new clothes." Can we be identified by the way we wear our Jesus? Do we wear His forgiveness? Do we put on His love, mercy and grace? A challenge for sure. 

We are works in progress. 

Today, I am grateful for new clothes.

The Little Things

 

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 11: Today, I am grateful for the little things that are really the big things. 

"Happy are those who take life day by day, complain very little, and are thankful for the little things in life." - anonymous

I love this thought. It really is the little things. 

One of the things I loved about "The Diary of Anne Frank" was her ability to find delight in the smallest things. They had so little in Secret Annex hidden rooms, but she took delight in simply being alive, and able to love. The simple gift of a window to look out upon the world caused Anne to pause and give thanks. 

Today, I am grateful for the little things that are really the big things. 

Peace in Silence

 

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 10: Today, I am grateful for the peace in silence.

This year, I will continue to seek some of the wonders in winter instead of dwelling on the pain it magnifies. I remember Mama Ina Mae saying "cold to the bone" and that is not a good kind of cold. This Susan Branch image welcomes the New Year and the winter calm. 

Post holidays, it does feel nice to have things slow down. The calendar isn't as full and there are quiet evenings. The Love of My Life surprised me with a fire in the fireplace tonight. He added warmth and not just heat when he lit the fire. We all enjoyed it, including the dog. The nearly 70lb princess doesn't like to be cold. 

Silence isn't void. This quote says it well:

"Feed your soul with silence; that's where dreams are born." 

Silence is recharging and restorative. It is peaceful. It is why Psalm 46:10 is kept above my kitchen sink, so I start the day with right thinking. 

“Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” Psalm 46:10 

The first part of the verse is quoted often. The second half of the verse is rich in truth, too. In the quiet places and spaces, we focus more clearly on His majesty. 

Today, I am grateful for the peace in silence.

Quiet Retreat

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 9: Today, I am grateful for a place of quiet retreat.

I loved this image. A beach looks so good when it is freezing outside. The scripture on the Pinterest found image is from "The Message". Here it is in the NLT translation:

"You are my refuge and my shield; your word is my source of hope." -Psalm 119:114

Where do we go when we need a quiet place to rest? We can't always go to the beach, but we can always go to our Lord. He longs to be our shelter and our hiding place. He eagerly waits for us to open His word to find hope and help.

Sometimes, we need to retreat into a place of solitude for communion with Him. The world's demands are constant. It is hard to take a deep breath when the plate gets too full and the "to do" list grows too long. Still, He longs for us to make Him our quiet retreat for refreshing.

Do we take advantage of the respite found between the pages of our Bibles? It can help us clear our minds and recharge our souls. There is nothing boring about it when you consider it a love story between a God who would not give up on us. Even when we broke His heart.

He made a way for us to return to fellowship with Him. Do we answer His call? Do we find our place of quiet rest?

Today, I am grateful for a place of quiet retreat.

Always

 

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 8: Today, I am grateful for always. 

I have been trying to choose one little word to pray on this year. I was considering "pause" and "still"... but "always" is the the winner for this year. Always.

We live in a world that is constantly changing. There is uncertainty and unknowns around every corner. It gives me great comfort to know that we have a God who does not change. He does not change his character or His rules. His Word does not change, but there are new revelations coming from its pages... always. 

"Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” -Matthew 28:30 

Always! What a promise.

Do you find yourself ending your prayers with "Even so, Lord Jesus, come?" John saw glimpses of heaven after years of missing his fellow disciples. He made use of his time and the Holy Spirit was with him, but I am sure he missed the others... and breakfast with Jesus. I can't even imagine it. 

Love lasts. Grief is part of the price of love. Even on the hardest days, it is worth the price. 

The image today was found on Pinterest. It captures one of my favorite quotes from the Harry Potter series. It is an exchange between Headmaster Albus Dumbledore and Professor Severus Snape. 

Dumbledore: "After all this time?" 
Snape answers: "Always"

When Severus Snape was a youth in school, he had two best friends. James and Lily. They did everything together. Both men were in love with Lily. She loved them, too, but it was James who one her heart and her hand in marriage. Severus lived with a broken heart. Then James and Lily died. Seeing their only son, Harry, at school every day caused him so many mixed emotions. So many memories and glimpses of Lily in the things Harry said and did. He carried his love for her always. 

Love never dies or is replaced; it just lives in a different space.

Today, I am grateful for always. 

Just the Beginning

 

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 7: Today, I am grateful the Christmas tree is just the beginning. 

Is  your tree down? This Christmas tree whispers of things to come:

 "No one has ever gone to heaven and returned. But the Son of Man has come down from heaven. And as Moses lifted up the bronze snake on a pole in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up,  so that everyone who believes in him will have eternal life. “For this is how God loved the world: He gave[g] his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him." John 3:13-17

Christmas... the full season... technically ended this week. Epiphany is celebrated 12 days after Christmas on 6th January. Some celebrate it as the Feast of the Three Kings, who we know arrived late to the party. Late, or right on time? 

The three Magi brought warning of the King's growing fear that this child who brought angels from heaven to sing would dethrone him. Herod was paranoid to begin with so it didn't take much to agitate him. 

The Magi are often remembered for the gifts they provided of Frankincense, Gold and Myrrh. I've written about the significance of each gift in previous posts. Today, I want to remember the forgotten gift... the warning that led them to flee to Egypt. 

"After the wise men were gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up! Flee to Egypt with the child and his mother,” the angel said. “Stay there until I tell you to return, because Herod is going to search for the child to kill him."-Matthew 2:13

The wee Jesus and his parents would hide in Egypt and fulfill one of the many prophecies about the Messiah. With Christmas barely in the rearview mirror, I don't want to rush. I need to slow down and take in the wonder of it all. The season months between Christmas and Easter are worth savoring. Not for the bitter winter chills, but because Easter is on the way. 

Today, I am grateful the Christmas tree is just the beginning. 

Truth: Seekers are Finders

 

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 6: Today, I am grateful for truth seekers.

Truth always rises to the top, but it can take its own sweet time. There is light in truth... and eventually, it breaks through the darkness. 

When my Dad would be frustrated by something happening in the world he would say, "If the good Lord doesn't do something soon, he will have to apologize to Sodom and Gomorrah." Dad has many sayings, but this one stuck in my head. Solomon the Wise once said "there is nothing new under the sun". The battle of good against evil has been real since the fall in the garden. Arrogance and self promotion came before the first bite of forbidden fruit. 

We don't have knowledge of the depth of evil in  this world, which probably keeps us sane. Man's inhumanity toward man seems to be limitless at times. Pray for those who are working to rescue those enslaved by human trafficking, sex trades and other kinds of slavery. For the justice warriors fighting the good fight, I know it takes a toll on their souls. They are truth seekers and freedom fighters. They are brave men, women and even children. 

There are others fighting different battles. They, too, grow weary, but press on. Truth seekers spend more time listening than talking. They practice the pause. They prefer precise understanding over power and influence. They pray and abide in the Word. 

"So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” -John 8:31-32

Abide. I once did a word study on the word abide. I loved an illustration I read that equated abiding to steeping ourselves in Jesus, like a tea bag steeps in hot water. To immerse ourselves in His truth so it can flow through us and change us. And in His truth, there is a freedom the world can not snuff out. 

Today, I am grateful for truth seekers.

Holy Mess

 

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 5: Today, I am grateful for the holy mess.

Sometimes, it seems like life is a bit of a mess. I am far from holy, but The One who holds me in the palm of His hand is truly holy. Nothing compares to him. (Ear Worm is singing "Nothing compares to you". 

When things seem out of control, it is a good reminder I never really was in control. Take a deep breath and say, "Whatever comes this day, He will not abandon his own." And, he doesn't. 

"Embrace the imperfections, the chaos, the holy mess of your beautiful life." -Kelly Rae Roberts

I love her art. It is a beautiful mess with unexpected whimsy. Art often imitates life. 

I don't fully comprehend holy, but I know when I come up against it. I know there are holy moments in every day when we offer our lives as a living sacrifice.

"And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him." - Romans 12:1

This day or season may not make any sense to me, but He can redeem our messes. He uses the raw materials of our imperfect lives to His purpose and to His service. We need only say, "Not my will but thine be done." 

Press on. And, invest in paper towels for the messes you can clean.

Today, I am grateful for the holy mess.

A Good List

 

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 4: Today, I am grateful for a good list. 

My Sister in Love, Jennifer, loves a good list. I am not as much of a list maker as she is, but I do find them helpful. I have noticed if I write my grocery list down, I might actually remember the things on my list... even if I forget the list at home. 

A sister of my heart, Susan Gilroy Cunningham, posted this list. It really is a good one. Thanks for sharing it, Susan. There are some things I love on the list and others that I know I need to work on... areas of growth. Isn't that part of the gift in a new year and a new chance to start again. 

The 10 Commandments keep popping up in one form or another. It is truly one of the best lists for living ever created. Actually, they aren't goals and suggestions. They are commandments. What many do not realize is that they are more freeing than binding. When we live within the law, there is a freedom that comes from doing the right thing. It is a freedom that leads to peace and contentment. They are about relationships with God and each other.

"If you love me, obey my commandments." - John 14:15 

A good list can help us take on the day. A God list can help us take on life. 

Today, I am grateful for a good list

Born To Sparkle

 

Daily Gratitude Year 10 - Day 3: Today, I am grateful we were born to sparkle. 

God's Word is never dull. Old passages revisited on a new day are always seen with different eyes. We are constantly learning, growing and evolving, so it is no surprise an old verse can feel fresh when revisited. He does not change but we do. 

Some passages, on the right day, bring new understanding and truths revealed. His word is living, breathing and fresh with every encounter when we are seeking. I like to think of it as a treasure hunt. 

Because I am a story lover, I am easily captivated by a story. I read the "Twilight Series". One of the fun and not so scary traits of her vampires was   the way they sparkled when hit by sunlight. Sparkle, not disintegrate. Of course, it would have revealed their true nature, so they avoided the sun. 

Do I avoid "The Son" because He will reveal my true nature? Nothing is hidden from Him, so I am only fooling myself if I put distance between us because of failures, shame or thoughts. 

"Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable." - Hebrews 4:13

Silly me... hide and seek is not a game to play with God. We will lose every time. 

Our precious Grandpup, Penny, is the friendliest, funniest Rottweiler you will ever meet. She came from a shelter as a near senior dog. Chase and Emma have loved her well. She might be an old dog, but she occasionally has some new tricks. She plays "Hide and Seek". She is not very good at it, but she enjoys the game. Recently, we had a chance to watch her play out the adventure. They are in a new house, so Penny is still learning the new hiding spots. She runs around searching for whoever is hiding. Her joy in the seeking is full. She bounds from room to room. There is celebration when the hidden is revealed. Pure joy! 

Now, in a game of Hide and Seek, there is no hidden sin. In real life, sin gets in the way of everything. We have a culture that wants to hide, soften or evolve when it comes to sin perspectives. God gave us 10 Commandments to help simplify our decision process. We still mess up. Oh, the pain and frustration of being human. 

I promise you, we were born to sparkle. I love glitter (some believe glitter is evil.). I adore sparkle. Diamonds go with everything, right? But the question remains, "Who am I reflecting?" 

Look at this snippet of Psalm 119: 

You have charged us to keep your commandments carefully. Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees! Then I will not be ashamed when I compare my life with your commands.-Psalm 119:4-6 

I feel the pain of the shame. When God sent His Holy Spirit to be with us, his desire was for us to know Him better, closer, daily and with intimacy. Paul penned this in a letter to the Corinthians: 

For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image. -2 Corinthians 3:17-18 

Satan lies. He wants us to believe life in Christ is a list of things you can and can't do. He wants us to feel bondage. Jesus died so we might live with the greatest freedom. Our desire to live chasing His heart changes the 10 Commandments from a list of rules to a way to get it right for His pleasure and our own joy. 

It is kind of like when the bakers on "The Great British Baking Show" are given a basic list of ingredients. They have to figure out the process for themselves. It is painful at times, but when they get it right, the Judges are generous with their praise. The bakers love to please the judges. The judges sincerely celebrate  those who shine after the work is done.

Do I feel that way when trying to please my Lord? Do we seek to reflect His glory in the things we say and do. Dear friends, I am a fellow traveler on this path and far from perfect. Let's keep trying together. 

Long post... but, hopefully, a good way to kick off 2022. Remember, you were born to sparkle. 

Today, I am grateful we were born to sparkle.