May 5
I'm sorry, but I am no longer able to keep up with this blog, so thanks for reading and God Bless.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Listening to Jesus calling
May 4
Meet Me in morning stillness, while the earth is fresh with the dew of My presence. Worship Me in the beauty of holiness. Sing love songs to My holy Name. As you give yourself to Me, My Spirit swells within you till you are flooded with divine Presence.
The world's way of pursuing riches is grasping and hoarding. You attain My riches by letting go and giving. The more you give yourself to Me and My ways, the more I fill you with inexspressible, heavenly Joy. (Psalms 29:2; 1 Peter 1:8)
Meet Me in morning stillness, while the earth is fresh with the dew of My presence. Worship Me in the beauty of holiness. Sing love songs to My holy Name. As you give yourself to Me, My Spirit swells within you till you are flooded with divine Presence.
The world's way of pursuing riches is grasping and hoarding. You attain My riches by letting go and giving. The more you give yourself to Me and My ways, the more I fill you with inexspressible, heavenly Joy. (Psalms 29:2; 1 Peter 1:8)
Listening to Jesus calling
May 3
You cannot serve two masters. If I am truly your Master, you will desire to please Me above all others. If pleasing people is your goal, you will be enslaved to them. People can be harsh taskmasters when you give them this power over you.
If I am the Master of your life, I wil also be your First Love. Your serving Me is rooted and grounded in My vast, unconditional Love for you. The lower you bow down before Me, the higher I lift you up into intimate relationship with Me. The Joy of living in My Presence outshines all other pleasures. I want you to reflect My joyous Light by living in increasing intimacy with Me. (Matt. 6:24; Rev. 2:4; Ephes. 3:16 - 17; Psalm 16:11)
You cannot serve two masters. If I am truly your Master, you will desire to please Me above all others. If pleasing people is your goal, you will be enslaved to them. People can be harsh taskmasters when you give them this power over you.
If I am the Master of your life, I wil also be your First Love. Your serving Me is rooted and grounded in My vast, unconditional Love for you. The lower you bow down before Me, the higher I lift you up into intimate relationship with Me. The Joy of living in My Presence outshines all other pleasures. I want you to reflect My joyous Light by living in increasing intimacy with Me. (Matt. 6:24; Rev. 2:4; Ephes. 3:16 - 17; Psalm 16:11)
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Listening to Jesus calling
May 2
Living in dependence on Me is the way to enjoy abundant life. You are learning to appreciate tough times, because they amplify your awareness of My Presence. Tasks that you used to dread are becoming rich opportunities to enjoy My closeness. When you feel tired, you remember that I am your Strength; you take pleasure in leaning on Me. I am pleased by your tendency to turn to Me more and more frequently, especially when you are alone.
When you are with other peopole, you often lose sight of My Presence. Your fear of displeasing people puts you in bondage to them, and they become your primary focus. When you realize this has happened, whisper My Name; this tiny act of trust brings Me to the forefront of your consciousness, where I belong. As you bask in the blessing of My nearness, My life can flow through you to others. This is abundant life! (Prov. 29:25; John 10:10)
Living in dependence on Me is the way to enjoy abundant life. You are learning to appreciate tough times, because they amplify your awareness of My Presence. Tasks that you used to dread are becoming rich opportunities to enjoy My closeness. When you feel tired, you remember that I am your Strength; you take pleasure in leaning on Me. I am pleased by your tendency to turn to Me more and more frequently, especially when you are alone.
When you are with other peopole, you often lose sight of My Presence. Your fear of displeasing people puts you in bondage to them, and they become your primary focus. When you realize this has happened, whisper My Name; this tiny act of trust brings Me to the forefront of your consciousness, where I belong. As you bask in the blessing of My nearness, My life can flow through you to others. This is abundant life! (Prov. 29:25; John 10:10)
Friday, May 1, 2009
Some things you just gotta share....
Got this on an email today and just had to share. Sometimes you see something that you would really love to have witnessed....check this out. You just gotta love ol' Maxine.
One day employment
So after landing my new job as a Wal-Mart greeter, a good find for many retirees, I lasted less than a day......
About two hours into my first day on the job a very loud, unattractive, mean-acting woman walked into the store with her two kids, yelling obscenities at them all the way through the entrance.
As I had been instructed, I said pleasantly, 'Good morning and welcome to Wal-Mart. Nice children you have there. Are they twins?' The ugly woman stopped yelling long enough to say, 'Hell no, they ain't twins. The oldest one's 9, and the other one's 7. Why the hell would you think they're twins? Are you blind, or just stupid?'
So I replied, 'I'm neither blind nor stupid, Ma'am, I just couldn't believe someone slept with you twice.. Have a good day and thank you for shopping at Wal-Mart.'
My supervisor said I probably wasn't cut out for this line of work.
Listening to Jesus calling
May 1
You are on the path of My choosing. There is no randomess about your life. Here and Now comprise the coordinates of your daily life. Most people let their moments slip through their fingers, half-lived. They avoid the present by worrying about thefuture or longing for a better time and place. They forget that they are creatures who are subject to the limitations of time and space. They forget their Creator, who walks with them only in the present.
Every moment is alive with My glorious Presence, to those whose hearts are intimately connected with Mine. As you give yourself more and mopre to a life of constant communion with Me, you will find that you simply have no time for worry. Thus, you are freed to let My Spirit direct your steps, enabling you to walk along the path of Peace. (Luke 12:25-26; Luke 1:79)
You are on the path of My choosing. There is no randomess about your life. Here and Now comprise the coordinates of your daily life. Most people let their moments slip through their fingers, half-lived. They avoid the present by worrying about thefuture or longing for a better time and place. They forget that they are creatures who are subject to the limitations of time and space. They forget their Creator, who walks with them only in the present.
Every moment is alive with My glorious Presence, to those whose hearts are intimately connected with Mine. As you give yourself more and mopre to a life of constant communion with Me, you will find that you simply have no time for worry. Thus, you are freed to let My Spirit direct your steps, enabling you to walk along the path of Peace. (Luke 12:25-26; Luke 1:79)
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Listening to Jesus calling
April 30
When some basic need is lacking -- time, energy, money -- consider yourself blessed. Your very lack is an opportunity to latch onto Me in unashamed dependence. When you begin a day with inadequate resources, you must concentrate your efforts on the present moment. This is where you are meant to live -- in the present; it is the place where I always await you. Awareness of your inadequacy is a rich blessing, training you to rely wholeheartedly on Me.
The truth is that self-sufficiency is a myth perpetuated by pride and temporary success. Health and wealth can disappear instantly, as can life itself. Rejoice in your insufficiency, knowing that My Power is made perfect in weakness. (James 1:2; 2 Corin. 12:9)
When some basic need is lacking -- time, energy, money -- consider yourself blessed. Your very lack is an opportunity to latch onto Me in unashamed dependence. When you begin a day with inadequate resources, you must concentrate your efforts on the present moment. This is where you are meant to live -- in the present; it is the place where I always await you. Awareness of your inadequacy is a rich blessing, training you to rely wholeheartedly on Me.
The truth is that self-sufficiency is a myth perpetuated by pride and temporary success. Health and wealth can disappear instantly, as can life itself. Rejoice in your insufficiency, knowing that My Power is made perfect in weakness. (James 1:2; 2 Corin. 12:9)
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Listening to Jesus calling
April 29
Let Me teach you thankfulness. Begin by acknowledging that everything -- all your possessions and all that you are -- belongs to Me. The dawning of each new day is a gift from Me, not to be taken for granted. The earth is vibrantly alive with My blessings, giving vivid testimony to My Presence. If you slow down your pace of life, you can find Me anywhere.
Some of My most precious children have been laid aside in sick beds or shut away in prisons. Others have voluntarily learned the discipline of spending time alone with Me. The secret of being thankful is learning to see everything from My perspective. My world is your classroom. My Word is a lamp to your feet and a light for your path. (Heb. 12:28-29; Psalm 119:105)
Let Me teach you thankfulness. Begin by acknowledging that everything -- all your possessions and all that you are -- belongs to Me. The dawning of each new day is a gift from Me, not to be taken for granted. The earth is vibrantly alive with My blessings, giving vivid testimony to My Presence. If you slow down your pace of life, you can find Me anywhere.
Some of My most precious children have been laid aside in sick beds or shut away in prisons. Others have voluntarily learned the discipline of spending time alone with Me. The secret of being thankful is learning to see everything from My perspective. My world is your classroom. My Word is a lamp to your feet and a light for your path. (Heb. 12:28-29; Psalm 119:105)
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Listening to Jesus calling
April 28
As you look into the day that stretches out before you, you see many choice-points along the way. The myriad possibilities these choices present can confuse you. Draw your mind back to the threshold of this day, where I stand beside you, lovingly preparing you for what is ahead.
You must make your choices one at a time, since each is contingent upon the decision that precedes it. Instead of trying to create a mental map of your path through this day, focus on My loving Presence with you. I will equip you as you go, so that you can handle whatever comes your way. Trust Me to supply what you need when you need it. (Lamen. 3:22-26; Psalm 34:8)
As you look into the day that stretches out before you, you see many choice-points along the way. The myriad possibilities these choices present can confuse you. Draw your mind back to the threshold of this day, where I stand beside you, lovingly preparing you for what is ahead.
You must make your choices one at a time, since each is contingent upon the decision that precedes it. Instead of trying to create a mental map of your path through this day, focus on My loving Presence with you. I will equip you as you go, so that you can handle whatever comes your way. Trust Me to supply what you need when you need it. (Lamen. 3:22-26; Psalm 34:8)
Monday, April 27, 2009
Musings
April 27
I had a wonderful mother-in-law, Dottie. She was only 38 years old, when we made her a grandmother. She was Webster's definition of a grandmother (well, I lied! Webster's says: 1:the mother of one's father or mother. 2. a female ancestor). So, what I am trying to get across, is that she was kind, wise, witty and always there for all of us, including her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
When I met Dottie and Bunny for the first time, I knew that Robin was the one for me. When we got married, I didn't just wed Robin, I married the whole family. Dottie drove me to Saurita, AZ so that I could see Robin on week-ends, while he was at Ft. Huachuca, AZ. We went to see her brother, Chan, first in Almogordo, N.M. Then, we met Robin in El Paso, for one night and went to Juarez (our first touch with Mexico). It was safe back then. We went on to Arizona and the following week-end, she took us to see Ed Beebe, a former employer of Bunny's, in Tombstone, AZ. We had a great time. She was always willing to jump in a car or on an airplane and go somewhere if we wanted her to.
Robin got home from AZ, for a month's leave, on about April 1, 1968. Our daughter, Lori, was born on April 18, 1968 and Dottie rode with us to the hospital in Casper. The roads had been horrible and closed for most of the day, but it was 2 am and they were open, again. She had to go find my mother, because the phone had been left off the hook, and brought her to the hospital. Everything went ok and in a few days, we went back to Dottie's house. Robin was only there for about 5 days, before he shipped out to Vietnam. He was gone for a year and Dottie and Bunny helped me with the baby. I spent much more time there, than I did in Casper with my Mom. It just seemed like home.
Dottie has been on my mind a lot the last few days. Yesterday, we went to Sandy Dixon's to play guitars and I fixed Dottie's recipe for Carmel Corn. Everyone enjoyed it and I really felt her presence in the room.
I pray that all of you that have living mothers and mothers-in-law, take the time to listen to them and let them know how much you love them. We all need to hear those words once in a while. God Bless.
I had a wonderful mother-in-law, Dottie. She was only 38 years old, when we made her a grandmother. She was Webster's definition of a grandmother (well, I lied! Webster's says: 1:the mother of one's father or mother. 2. a female ancestor). So, what I am trying to get across, is that she was kind, wise, witty and always there for all of us, including her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
When I met Dottie and Bunny for the first time, I knew that Robin was the one for me. When we got married, I didn't just wed Robin, I married the whole family. Dottie drove me to Saurita, AZ so that I could see Robin on week-ends, while he was at Ft. Huachuca, AZ. We went to see her brother, Chan, first in Almogordo, N.M. Then, we met Robin in El Paso, for one night and went to Juarez (our first touch with Mexico). It was safe back then. We went on to Arizona and the following week-end, she took us to see Ed Beebe, a former employer of Bunny's, in Tombstone, AZ. We had a great time. She was always willing to jump in a car or on an airplane and go somewhere if we wanted her to.
Robin got home from AZ, for a month's leave, on about April 1, 1968. Our daughter, Lori, was born on April 18, 1968 and Dottie rode with us to the hospital in Casper. The roads had been horrible and closed for most of the day, but it was 2 am and they were open, again. She had to go find my mother, because the phone had been left off the hook, and brought her to the hospital. Everything went ok and in a few days, we went back to Dottie's house. Robin was only there for about 5 days, before he shipped out to Vietnam. He was gone for a year and Dottie and Bunny helped me with the baby. I spent much more time there, than I did in Casper with my Mom. It just seemed like home.
Dottie has been on my mind a lot the last few days. Yesterday, we went to Sandy Dixon's to play guitars and I fixed Dottie's recipe for Carmel Corn. Everyone enjoyed it and I really felt her presence in the room.
I pray that all of you that have living mothers and mothers-in-law, take the time to listen to them and let them know how much you love them. We all need to hear those words once in a while. God Bless.
Listening to Jesus calling
April 27
Come to Me with empty hands and an open heart, ready to receive abundant blessings. I know the depth and breadth of your neediness. Your life-path has been difficult, draining you of strength. Come to Me for nurture. Let Me fill you up with My Presence: I in you and you in Me.
My Power flows most freely into weak ones aware of their need for Me. Faltering steps of dependence are not lack of faith; they are links to My Presence. (John 17:20-23; Isaiah 40:29-31)
Come to Me with empty hands and an open heart, ready to receive abundant blessings. I know the depth and breadth of your neediness. Your life-path has been difficult, draining you of strength. Come to Me for nurture. Let Me fill you up with My Presence: I in you and you in Me.
My Power flows most freely into weak ones aware of their need for Me. Faltering steps of dependence are not lack of faith; they are links to My Presence. (John 17:20-23; Isaiah 40:29-31)
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Listen to Jesus Calling
April 26
Welcome problems as perspective-lifters. My children tend to sleepwalk through their days until they bump into an obstacle that stymies them. If you encounter a problem with no immediate solution, your response to that situation will take you either up or down. You can lash out at the difficulty, resenting it and feeling sorry for yourself. This will take you down into a pit of self-pity. Alternatively, the problem can be a ladder, enabling you to climb up and see your life from My perspective. Viewed from above, the obstacle that frustrated you is only a light and momentary trouble. Once your perspective has been heightened, you can look away from the problem altogether. Turn toward Me and see the Light of My Presence shining upon you. (2 Corin. 4:16-18; Psalm 89:15)
Welcome problems as perspective-lifters. My children tend to sleepwalk through their days until they bump into an obstacle that stymies them. If you encounter a problem with no immediate solution, your response to that situation will take you either up or down. You can lash out at the difficulty, resenting it and feeling sorry for yourself. This will take you down into a pit of self-pity. Alternatively, the problem can be a ladder, enabling you to climb up and see your life from My perspective. Viewed from above, the obstacle that frustrated you is only a light and momentary trouble. Once your perspective has been heightened, you can look away from the problem altogether. Turn toward Me and see the Light of My Presence shining upon you. (2 Corin. 4:16-18; Psalm 89:15)
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Listen to Jesus Calling
April 25
Make me your focal point as you move through this day. Just as a spinning ballerina must keep returning her eyes to a given point to maintain her balance, so you must keep returning your focus to Me. Circumstances are in flux, and the world seems to be whirling around you. The only way to keep your balance is to fix your eyes on Me, the One who never changes. If you gaze too long at your circumstances, you will become dizzy and confused. Look to Me, refreshing yourself in My Presence and your steps will be steady and sure. (Hebrews 12:2; Psalm 102:27)
Make me your focal point as you move through this day. Just as a spinning ballerina must keep returning her eyes to a given point to maintain her balance, so you must keep returning your focus to Me. Circumstances are in flux, and the world seems to be whirling around you. The only way to keep your balance is to fix your eyes on Me, the One who never changes. If you gaze too long at your circumstances, you will become dizzy and confused. Look to Me, refreshing yourself in My Presence and your steps will be steady and sure. (Hebrews 12:2; Psalm 102:27)
Friday, April 24, 2009
Listen to Jesus Calling
April 24
Rest in the stillness of My Presence while I prepare you for this day. Let the radiance of My Glory shine upon you, as you wait on Me in confident trust. Be still and know that I am God. There is both a passive and an active side to trusting Me. As you rest in My Presence, focusing on Me, I quietly build bonds of trust between us. When you respond to the circumstances of your life with affirmations of trust, you actively participate in this process.
I am always with you, so you have no reason to be afraid. Your fear often manifests itself in excessive planning. Your mind is so accustomed to this pattern of thinking that you are only now becovming aware of how pervasive it is and how much it hinders your intimacy with Me. Repent of this tendency and resist it, whenever you realize you are wandering down this well-worn path. Return to My Presence, which always awaits you in the present moment. I accept you back with no condemnation. (Psalm 46:10; Romans 8:1)
Rest in the stillness of My Presence while I prepare you for this day. Let the radiance of My Glory shine upon you, as you wait on Me in confident trust. Be still and know that I am God. There is both a passive and an active side to trusting Me. As you rest in My Presence, focusing on Me, I quietly build bonds of trust between us. When you respond to the circumstances of your life with affirmations of trust, you actively participate in this process.
I am always with you, so you have no reason to be afraid. Your fear often manifests itself in excessive planning. Your mind is so accustomed to this pattern of thinking that you are only now becovming aware of how pervasive it is and how much it hinders your intimacy with Me. Repent of this tendency and resist it, whenever you realize you are wandering down this well-worn path. Return to My Presence, which always awaits you in the present moment. I accept you back with no condemnation. (Psalm 46:10; Romans 8:1)
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Listen to Jesus Calling
April 23
Keep your eyes on Me, not only for direction but also for empowerment. I never lead you to do something without equipping you for the task. That is why it's so important to seek My will in everything you do. There are many burned-out Christians who think more is always better, who deem it unspiritual to say no.
In order to know My will, you must spend time with Me-enjoying My Presence. This is not an onerous task but a delightful privilege. I will show you the path of Life, in My Presence is fullness of Joy; at My right hand there are pleasures forevermore. (Psalm 141:8, Psalm 16:11)
Keep your eyes on Me, not only for direction but also for empowerment. I never lead you to do something without equipping you for the task. That is why it's so important to seek My will in everything you do. There are many burned-out Christians who think more is always better, who deem it unspiritual to say no.
In order to know My will, you must spend time with Me-enjoying My Presence. This is not an onerous task but a delightful privilege. I will show you the path of Life, in My Presence is fullness of Joy; at My right hand there are pleasures forevermore. (Psalm 141:8, Psalm 16:11)
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Listening to Jesus Calling
April 22
Listen to Me continually. I have much to communicate to you, so many people and situations in need of prayer. I am training you to set your mind o Me more and more, tuning out distractions through the help of My Spirit.
Walk with Me in holy trust, responding to My initiatives rather than trying to make things fit your plans. I died to set you free and that includes freedom from compulsive planning. When your mind spins with a multitude of thoughts, you cannot hear My voice. A mind preoccupied with planning pays homage to the idol of control. Turn from this idolatry back to Me. Listen to Me and live abundantly! (John 8:36; Prov. 19:21; John 10:27)
Listen to Me continually. I have much to communicate to you, so many people and situations in need of prayer. I am training you to set your mind o Me more and more, tuning out distractions through the help of My Spirit.
Walk with Me in holy trust, responding to My initiatives rather than trying to make things fit your plans. I died to set you free and that includes freedom from compulsive planning. When your mind spins with a multitude of thoughts, you cannot hear My voice. A mind preoccupied with planning pays homage to the idol of control. Turn from this idolatry back to Me. Listen to Me and live abundantly! (John 8:36; Prov. 19:21; John 10:27)
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Listening to Jesus Calling
April 21
Let Me control your mind. The mind is the most restless, unruly part of mankind. Long after you have learned the discipline of holding your tongue, your thoughts defy your will and set themselves up against Me. Man is the pinnacle of My creation and the human mind is wondrously complex. I risked all by granting you freedom to think for yourself. This is godlike privilege, forever setting you apart from animals and robots. I made you in My image, precariously close to deity.
Though My blood has fully redeemed you, your mind is the last bastion of rebellion. Open yourself to My radiant Presence, letting My Light permeate your thinking. When My Spirit is controlling your mind, you are filled with Life and Peace. (Gen. 1:26-27; Romans 8:6)
Let Me control your mind. The mind is the most restless, unruly part of mankind. Long after you have learned the discipline of holding your tongue, your thoughts defy your will and set themselves up against Me. Man is the pinnacle of My creation and the human mind is wondrously complex. I risked all by granting you freedom to think for yourself. This is godlike privilege, forever setting you apart from animals and robots. I made you in My image, precariously close to deity.
Though My blood has fully redeemed you, your mind is the last bastion of rebellion. Open yourself to My radiant Presence, letting My Light permeate your thinking. When My Spirit is controlling your mind, you are filled with Life and Peace. (Gen. 1:26-27; Romans 8:6)
Monday, April 20, 2009
Catching up is Hard to do
April 20, 2009
Well, I let myself get behind this week, in my writing, that is. These heifers take a lot more time than I thought. I go to check them every 1 1/2 to 2 hours, but I take the dogs with me and do a little training along the way. Then I have to play with them for a little while, so they don't think it's all work and no play. The new puppy, Tater, has surely made a place for himself, here. He is pretty much the center of attention, at all times. Poor Dot...yesterday, the only way she could get away from his biting and playfulness, was to go out into the water where he would not go. She did that three or four times, until her feet got too cold. Tater found a calf bedded under a brush and when the calf awoke, it bellered! I don't know who left the fastest, the calf or Tater. Neither was taking any chances. We are having a few nice days, now and the ground is still soft, but dry on top. The men are gathering up the cows, to take them to the calving pasture, about 40 miles away. It is not a difficult trail drive, but does take 3 to 4 days. It's one of the favorite times for us. We get to use the young dogs and young horses, because there are no calves to contend with. It's good for everybody and it's supposed to be in the upper 60s and low 70s for a few days. Just right. I will take lunches out for them and anything else they might need. So, tell me about your week? God Bless.
Well, I let myself get behind this week, in my writing, that is. These heifers take a lot more time than I thought. I go to check them every 1 1/2 to 2 hours, but I take the dogs with me and do a little training along the way. Then I have to play with them for a little while, so they don't think it's all work and no play. The new puppy, Tater, has surely made a place for himself, here. He is pretty much the center of attention, at all times. Poor Dot...yesterday, the only way she could get away from his biting and playfulness, was to go out into the water where he would not go. She did that three or four times, until her feet got too cold. Tater found a calf bedded under a brush and when the calf awoke, it bellered! I don't know who left the fastest, the calf or Tater. Neither was taking any chances. We are having a few nice days, now and the ground is still soft, but dry on top. The men are gathering up the cows, to take them to the calving pasture, about 40 miles away. It is not a difficult trail drive, but does take 3 to 4 days. It's one of the favorite times for us. We get to use the young dogs and young horses, because there are no calves to contend with. It's good for everybody and it's supposed to be in the upper 60s and low 70s for a few days. Just right. I will take lunches out for them and anything else they might need. So, tell me about your week? God Bless.
Listening to Jesus Calling
April 20
Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Hear Me saying Peace, be still to your restless heart. No matter what happens, I will never leave you or forsake you. Let this assurance soak into your mind and heart, until you overflow with Joy. Though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, you need not fear!
The media relentlessly proclaim bad news: for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A steady diet of their fare will sicken you. Instead of focusing on fickle, ever-changing news brtoadcasts, tune in to the living Word - the One who is always the same. Let Scripture saturate your mind and heart and you will walk steadily along the path of Life. Even though you don't know what will happen tomorrow, you can be absolutely sure of your ultimate destination. I hold you by your right hand and afterward I will take you into Glory. (Mark 4:39; Deut. 31:6; Psalm 46:2; Psalm 73:23-24)
Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Hear Me saying Peace, be still to your restless heart. No matter what happens, I will never leave you or forsake you. Let this assurance soak into your mind and heart, until you overflow with Joy. Though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, you need not fear!
The media relentlessly proclaim bad news: for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A steady diet of their fare will sicken you. Instead of focusing on fickle, ever-changing news brtoadcasts, tune in to the living Word - the One who is always the same. Let Scripture saturate your mind and heart and you will walk steadily along the path of Life. Even though you don't know what will happen tomorrow, you can be absolutely sure of your ultimate destination. I hold you by your right hand and afterward I will take you into Glory. (Mark 4:39; Deut. 31:6; Psalm 46:2; Psalm 73:23-24)
Listening to Jesus Calling
April 19
I love you regardless of how well you are performing. Sometimes you feel uneasy, wondering if you are doing enough to be worthy of My Love. No matter how exemplary your behavior, the answer to that question will always be no. Your performance and My Love are totally different issues, which you need to sort out. I love you with an everlasting Love that flows out from eternity without limits or conditions. I have clothed you in My role of righteousness and this is an eternal transaction: nothing and no one can reverse it. Therefore, your accomplishment as a Christian has no bearing on My Love for you. Even your ability to assess how well you are doing on a given day is flawed. Your limited human perspective and the condition of your body, with its mercurial variations, distort your evaluations.
Bring your performance anxiety to Me and receive in its place My unfailing Love. Try to stay conscious of My loving Presence with you in all that you do and I will direct your steps. (Jer. 31:3; Isaiah 61:10; Psalm 31:16; Psalm 107:8)
I love you regardless of how well you are performing. Sometimes you feel uneasy, wondering if you are doing enough to be worthy of My Love. No matter how exemplary your behavior, the answer to that question will always be no. Your performance and My Love are totally different issues, which you need to sort out. I love you with an everlasting Love that flows out from eternity without limits or conditions. I have clothed you in My role of righteousness and this is an eternal transaction: nothing and no one can reverse it. Therefore, your accomplishment as a Christian has no bearing on My Love for you. Even your ability to assess how well you are doing on a given day is flawed. Your limited human perspective and the condition of your body, with its mercurial variations, distort your evaluations.
Bring your performance anxiety to Me and receive in its place My unfailing Love. Try to stay conscious of My loving Presence with you in all that you do and I will direct your steps. (Jer. 31:3; Isaiah 61:10; Psalm 31:16; Psalm 107:8)
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Come as you are. No jacket required.
I used to do a lot of reading and on my calendar, I had a "Must Read" list. I never did get all of the books read that were on the list, but I do add to it once in a while. This story came from the Cowdog Forum, under the heading, "Cowboys for Christ." So, if you have the time or the inclination, please put this on your "Must Read" list.
COME AS YOU ARE. NO JACKET REQUIRED I shook my head in disbelief. This couldn't be the right place. After all, I couldn't possibly be welcome here. I had been given an invitation several times, by several different people, and I had finally decided to see what this place was all about. But, this just couldn't be the right place. Quickly, I glanced down at the invitation that I clutched in my hand. I scanned past the words, "Come as you are. No jacket required" and found the location. Yes, I was at the right place. I peered through the window again and saw a room of people whose faces seemed to glow with joy. All were neatly dressed, adorned in fine garments and appeared strangely clean as they dined at this exquisite restaurant. Ashamed, I looked down at my own tattered and torn clothing, covered in stains. I was dirty, in fact, filthy. A foul smell seemed to consume me and I couldn't shake the grime that clung to my body. As I turned around to leave, the words from the invitation seemed to leap out at me..."Come as you are. No jacket required." I decided to give it a shot. Mustering up every bit of courage I could find, I opened the door to this restaurant and walked up to a man standing behind a podium. "Your name, sir?" he asked me with a smile. "Jimmy D. Brown," I mumbled without looking up. I thrust my hands deep into my pockets, hoping to conceal their stains. He didn't seem to notice the filth that I was covered in and he continued, "Very good, sir. A table is reserved in your name. Would you like to be seated?" I couldn't believe what I heard! A grin broke out on my face and I said, "Yes, of course!" He lead me to a table and, sure enough, there was a placard with my name written on it in a deep, dark red. As I browsed over a menu, I saw many delightful items listed. There were things like, "peace," "joy," "blessings," "confidence," "assurance," "hope," "love," "faith," and "mercy." I realized that this was no ordinary restaurant! I flipped the menu back to the front in order to see where I was at... "God's Grace," was the name of this place. The man returned and said, "I recommend the 'Special of the Day'. With it you are entitled to heaping portions of everything on this menu". You've got to be kidding! I thought to myself. You mean, I can have ALL of this! "What is the 'Special of the Day'?" I asked with excitement ringing in my voice. "Salvation," was his reply. "I'll take it," I practically cried out. Then, as quickly as I made that statement, the joy left my body. A sick painful ache jerked through my stomach and tears filled my eyes. Between my sobs I said... "Mister, look at me. I'm dirty and nasty. I am unclean and unworthy of such things. I'd love to have all of this, but, but, I just can't afford it." Undaunted, the man smiled again. "Sir, your check has already been taken care of by that Gentleman over there," he said as he pointed to the front of the room. "His name is Jesus." Turning, I saw a man whose very presence seemed to light the room. He was almost too much to look at. I found myself walking towards Him and in a shaking voice I whispered, "Sir, I'll wash the dishes or sweep the floors or take out the trash. I'll do anything I can do to repay You for all this." He opened His arms and said with a smile, "Son, all of this is yours if you just come unto me. Ask me to clean you up and I will. Ask me to allow you to feast at my table and you will eat. Remember, the table is reserved in your name. All you must do is accept this gift that I offer you." Astonished, I fell at his feet and said, "Please, Jesus. Please clean up my life. Please change me and sit me at your table and give me this new life." Immediately, I heard the words, "It is finished." I looked down and white robes adorned my squeaky clean body. Something strange and wonderful had happened. I felt new, like a weight had been lifted and I found myself seated at His table "The 'Special of the Day' has been served," the Lord said to me. "Salvation is yours." We sat and talked for a great while and I so enjoyed the time that I spent with Him. He told me, me of all people, that He would like for me to come back as often as I liked for another helping from God's Grace. He made it clear that He wanted me to spend as much time with Him as possible. As it drew near time for me to go back outside into the "real world," He whispered to me softly, "And Lo, I am with you always." And then, He said something to me that I will never forget. He said... "My child, do you see these empty tables throughout this room?" "Yes, Lord. I see them. What do they mean?" I replied. "These are reserved tables...but the individuals whose names are on each placard have not accepted their invitation to dine. Would you be so kind as to hand out these invitations to those who have not joined us as yet?" Jesus asked. "Of course," I said with excitement as I picked up the invitations. "Go ye therefore into all nations," He said as I turned to leave I walked into God's Grace dirty and hungry. Stained in sin. My righteousness as filthy rags. And Jesus cleaned me up. I walked out a brand new man...robed in white, His righteousness. And so, I'll keep my promise to my Lord. I'll go. I'll spread the Word. I'll share the Gospel... I'll hand out the invitations. And I'll start with you. Have you been to God's Grace? There's a table reserved in your name, and here's your invitation... "Come as you are. No jacket required." "For by grace are you saved through faith: and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast." Ephesians 2: 8,9 -- Author Unknown
COME AS YOU ARE. NO JACKET REQUIRED I shook my head in disbelief. This couldn't be the right place. After all, I couldn't possibly be welcome here. I had been given an invitation several times, by several different people, and I had finally decided to see what this place was all about. But, this just couldn't be the right place. Quickly, I glanced down at the invitation that I clutched in my hand. I scanned past the words, "Come as you are. No jacket required" and found the location. Yes, I was at the right place. I peered through the window again and saw a room of people whose faces seemed to glow with joy. All were neatly dressed, adorned in fine garments and appeared strangely clean as they dined at this exquisite restaurant. Ashamed, I looked down at my own tattered and torn clothing, covered in stains. I was dirty, in fact, filthy. A foul smell seemed to consume me and I couldn't shake the grime that clung to my body. As I turned around to leave, the words from the invitation seemed to leap out at me..."Come as you are. No jacket required." I decided to give it a shot. Mustering up every bit of courage I could find, I opened the door to this restaurant and walked up to a man standing behind a podium. "Your name, sir?" he asked me with a smile. "Jimmy D. Brown," I mumbled without looking up. I thrust my hands deep into my pockets, hoping to conceal their stains. He didn't seem to notice the filth that I was covered in and he continued, "Very good, sir. A table is reserved in your name. Would you like to be seated?" I couldn't believe what I heard! A grin broke out on my face and I said, "Yes, of course!" He lead me to a table and, sure enough, there was a placard with my name written on it in a deep, dark red. As I browsed over a menu, I saw many delightful items listed. There were things like, "peace," "joy," "blessings," "confidence," "assurance," "hope," "love," "faith," and "mercy." I realized that this was no ordinary restaurant! I flipped the menu back to the front in order to see where I was at... "God's Grace," was the name of this place. The man returned and said, "I recommend the 'Special of the Day'. With it you are entitled to heaping portions of everything on this menu". You've got to be kidding! I thought to myself. You mean, I can have ALL of this! "What is the 'Special of the Day'?" I asked with excitement ringing in my voice. "Salvation," was his reply. "I'll take it," I practically cried out. Then, as quickly as I made that statement, the joy left my body. A sick painful ache jerked through my stomach and tears filled my eyes. Between my sobs I said... "Mister, look at me. I'm dirty and nasty. I am unclean and unworthy of such things. I'd love to have all of this, but, but, I just can't afford it." Undaunted, the man smiled again. "Sir, your check has already been taken care of by that Gentleman over there," he said as he pointed to the front of the room. "His name is Jesus." Turning, I saw a man whose very presence seemed to light the room. He was almost too much to look at. I found myself walking towards Him and in a shaking voice I whispered, "Sir, I'll wash the dishes or sweep the floors or take out the trash. I'll do anything I can do to repay You for all this." He opened His arms and said with a smile, "Son, all of this is yours if you just come unto me. Ask me to clean you up and I will. Ask me to allow you to feast at my table and you will eat. Remember, the table is reserved in your name. All you must do is accept this gift that I offer you." Astonished, I fell at his feet and said, "Please, Jesus. Please clean up my life. Please change me and sit me at your table and give me this new life." Immediately, I heard the words, "It is finished." I looked down and white robes adorned my squeaky clean body. Something strange and wonderful had happened. I felt new, like a weight had been lifted and I found myself seated at His table "The 'Special of the Day' has been served," the Lord said to me. "Salvation is yours." We sat and talked for a great while and I so enjoyed the time that I spent with Him. He told me, me of all people, that He would like for me to come back as often as I liked for another helping from God's Grace. He made it clear that He wanted me to spend as much time with Him as possible. As it drew near time for me to go back outside into the "real world," He whispered to me softly, "And Lo, I am with you always." And then, He said something to me that I will never forget. He said... "My child, do you see these empty tables throughout this room?" "Yes, Lord. I see them. What do they mean?" I replied. "These are reserved tables...but the individuals whose names are on each placard have not accepted their invitation to dine. Would you be so kind as to hand out these invitations to those who have not joined us as yet?" Jesus asked. "Of course," I said with excitement as I picked up the invitations. "Go ye therefore into all nations," He said as I turned to leave I walked into God's Grace dirty and hungry. Stained in sin. My righteousness as filthy rags. And Jesus cleaned me up. I walked out a brand new man...robed in white, His righteousness. And so, I'll keep my promise to my Lord. I'll go. I'll spread the Word. I'll share the Gospel... I'll hand out the invitations. And I'll start with you. Have you been to God's Grace? There's a table reserved in your name, and here's your invitation... "Come as you are. No jacket required." "For by grace are you saved through faith: and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast." Ephesians 2: 8,9 -- Author Unknown
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