Tuesday, March 31, 2020

GATHER 3/31


"For where two or three are gathered in my name, 
there I am among them."

Matthew 18:20


Once again, little did I know when I wrote the original text (below) where we would be on April 1st, 2020.  I have been hoping we'd wake up to the news today "April Fool"
 and life would have returned to normal.  


Not in our wildest imagination, could we have seen our churches (and everything else!) closed...especially during Easter.  But somehow, in our true American spirit, we are finding new ways to gather in the midst of this pandemic storm.  

"Gather" takes on new meaning in these days.  We may not be able to physically connect in the ways we are used to, but we can emotionally.  FaceTime and Zoom are our new best friends.  We can participate (yes, participate, not just watch in real time) our worship services via YouTube and Facebook.  We can pick up the phone that's always in our pocket and chat with a friend that is "sheltering in place" in Australia or right next door.  

We live in an age of limitless possibilities for connecting.  And we are connecting in a deeper and more personal way that has long been taken for granted.  Cherish these opportunities to reach out and check on a loved one, or a neighbor.  

And while life is moving at this slower pace, we'd better rest up, my friends, because when this is over, more than ever we need to be the hands and feet of Christ.  

____________

I have always been intrigued by "Blue Zones."  
If you're not familiar, these are areas around the world where people typically live full, healthy lives to 100 years old and beyond, and what are the common denominators amongst them.   The obvious are genetics, diet and exercise, but equally important to their longevity are faith and community.  A heartfelt belief in God and quality time with friends and family.  

We are so blessed to live in a country and a community that cherish both of these, but it takes intention on our part.  Church and family can extend beyond the walls of the sanctuary or our immediate family.  Gather with those that fill your heart and build you up both socially as well as taking part in the many activities offered in our community and church.
  
And in the process, we can be the hands of feet of Christ across the world, through mission trips, volunteering at a local hospital or sharing a cup of coffee with your elderly neighbor.  

Tuesday, March 24, 2020

SHINE

"You are the light of the world.  A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.  Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all the houses.  In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."

Matthew 5:14




Now that we've "been transformed by the renewing of our mind" and can Trust in God for everything, we can jump for joy and SHINE for our Lord and Savior!  Whose watching you??  Your children, neighbors, co-workers, grandchildren... all of the above?  Even the checkout lady at the grocery store forms an opinion of you in the few minutes of interaction.  

Opportunity sometimes just knocks once!  
Let all the eyes on you, see your light shine for Him!  

Hi Friends!  Even though everything has changed in the last month, I'm leaving up my original text that I scheduled in early Feb. for Lent.   God is our ROCK.  While everything has changed, HE has not and this is a unique opportunity for us as Christians to SHINE for Him!  With negativity and fear surrounding us 24/7, we can rest assured knowing that God will prevail and will use this for His good.  We can send that message now to everyone we meet... spread the peace and confidence that "All things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28 


Tuesday, March 17, 2020

TRUST

Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving , present your requests to God.

Philippians 4:6


I am a planner.  I like to come up with new ideas and then plan A to Z how to accomplish the task at hand.  Sometimes I get so pre-occupied with the plan I miss opportunities that God has placed square in my path, His little detours that make life what it's all about....

One of my favorite expressions is "If you want to give God a good laugh, just tell Him your plans!"

About 30 years ago when life was not going at all the way I'd planned it, I came across this poem and it totally changed my perspective and my life and now, all these years later, I can say without hesitation, it's been a great ride!!
Image

P.S.   I worked on these sketches and posts a few months ago!  Little did I know what was in store for all of us, our country, and the world!  And how timely, this pre-posted sketch and message would be for today.  To be honest, I've been glued to the TV for days and it's taken it's toll.  But today is a new day and I'm taking to heart "The Road of Life."  We never know from day to day what will happen, but we can TRUST in the fact that God is ALWAYS in control and He will make good of every situation.  I do think it's a little ironic that the situation we are in worldwide has occurred during Lent.  A time when we are to "give up" something and to spend that time tuned into God.  To Rest, Renew, Transform, TRUST  and Shine. 

for more, please read: https://herviewfromhome.com/faith-gods-plans-are-greater/

Tuesday, March 10, 2020

TRANSFORM

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind."

Romans 12:2




Do you ever feel like you've been stuck in a cocoon?  Waiting to become who you're meant to be?  That the expectations others have of you is not your true self.  Those inner voices that tell you to be quiet, or calm when you want to take flight and soar?   I have!  

We have only one judge in this life, and He loves us more than we can imagine.  
As Christians, we are created in Christ's image, we have been filled with the Holy Spirit and will have everlasting life.   What could be better than that?
The time has come to jump for joy and soar to new heights! And to share the love of Christ to the world together!

Tuesday, March 3, 2020

RENEW


" Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God, truly righteous and holy."

Ephesians 4:23



I love new beginnings!  New Years Day, birthdays, sometimes just a Monday feels like an opportunity to begin again!

Lent is a time for a fresh start in our walk with Christ.  To walk with Him and talk with Him so that He can show us all He has prepared for us. 

"Renew" is a verb, it requires action.  A favorite expression of mine is "God can't steer a parked car," so it's time to get in gear and go!  He will show you the way.... He'll provide opportunities more than you can imagine and the means to make it happen.  Open your eyes and trust in that.  

"For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which He has prepared in advance for us to do."
Ephesians 4:10


read more about renewal:
www.asymphonyofpraise.com/blog/renewyourmind