"Blessed are those whose strength is in You,
who have set their hearts on pilgrimage."
Psalm 84:5
With a broad smile I recall those precious preschool programs--my boys among those adorable 3 and 4-year olds singing so proudly. One song is especially vivid in my memory-- "We're Going on a Bear Hunt." The Bear Hunt was more of a chant with motions as Mrs. Sandy led them through the search and the children echoed her path: through long wavy grass, thick oozy mud, a deep cold river, a big dark forest, and a scary dark cave. (No, I really did not remember all those lyrics. Thank you, Google, for your help!) The only part I did actually recall was the refrain: "We can't go over it; we can't go under it; we've got to go through it!" Perhaps those lines have stayed with me all these years because there is profound truth in these simple words. Some circumstances in our lives, such as illness or grief, cannot be circumvented. We cannot get around them. We simply have to go through them. Ugh.
But the good news is... the good news. Yes, the gospel is our way through. Jesus Himself said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life, and no one comes to the Father except through Me." (John 14:6) His way through was brutally suffering so that our way through would be simply believing. God sent His Son so that we could have a way through to Him. Although Jesus returned to sit at the right hand of His Father after His resurrection, He left us with the Holy Spirit who "will remind you of everything I have said to you." (John 14:26) These reminders, often the precious promises of God, are our way through. "I will never leave you nor forsake you." (Joshua 1:5) What reassurance to know we go through nothing alone! Sometimes He sends His people to your doorstep or a text to your phone or a card to your mailbox. How many occasions in the past two and a half years has He "shown up" in my life this way! But sometimes He doesn't. Sometimes it is simply in the dark, quiet, tear-filled night that our Father of compassion softly whispers, "I am here. Cry on. I understand." The intimacy of those moments is immeasurable. Maybe these painfully sweet times are the "treasures of darkness, riches stored in secret places" that the Lord speaks of in Isaiah 45:3.
Another encouraging promise is also found in Isaiah: "For I am the LORD your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, 'Do not fear; I will help you.'" (41:13) I need Him to take my hand, especially when I don't know which way to turn. (Navigation has always been a serious weakness.) On our "bear hunts" that mud can be really thick, making us feel stuck--almost paralyzed. His mighty hand is there to pull us out. That river is so cold that our bodies are trembling. He will tuck us under the shadow of His wings until we are warm and calm again. Yes, that forest is dark, but He is the light unto our path who will show us the way. The cave, too, is dark and scary, but with the LORD at our side, declaring to rescue us, we need not be afraid. (Jeremiah 1:8) Alas, whatever obstacles we encounter on our journey, our compassionate and loving
Guide is right there waiting. All we have to do is reach for His hand and ask for His help.
At some point in our lives we will all experience a bear hunt: tall grass, thick mud, cold rivers, dark forests, and/or scary caves. No way around them; we have to go through them. May we rest in knowing that our faithful Father is taking every step alongside us, holding our hand all the way. He will see us through!
.
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
Sunday, March 30, 2014
Delicious
"Great are the works of the LORD;
they are pondered by all who delight in them."
Psalm 111:2
Years ago a fourth grade teacher friend shared a wonderful story about a book her class had read called The Search for Delicious. In this book the king's messenger is sent out to poll the kingdom regarding which food should be listed under delicious in the new dictionary since great division on the matter prevails within the castle. The quest proves quite interesting as the responses stretch beyond food, leaving the reader to ponder the answer as well: What is delicious? After discussing it as a class, this savvy teacher then had her students write prominent Mississippi author, John Grisham, asking him to answer the question. She gave me a copy of his letter (dated September 1992) to the class as he offered his insights beyond food on delicious. Here is an excerpt:
"Going to the ballpark and watching kids play baseball is a delicious
experience. Taking a long walk in the woods with my dog Bo on a
cool morning is delicious. Going to church with Renee, Ty, and Shea
is delicious. Watching Ty play soccer and listening to him read a book
is delicious..."
My friend (and her students!) were thrilled that the noted author took time to write them back, and his letter served as a catalyst for their own assignment to define delicious.
I've always loved this story, and through the years have encouraged my students to reflect on what they consider to be delicious. I explain that although we often only associate food with this word, delicious is a close relative of delight. Delicious and delight come from the same Latin root meaning "to please greatly" or "to take pleasure in." Once they get past Grandma's fried chicken, an Oreo blizzard, and Mom's sweet potato casserole, they begin to grasp the idea. Snippets of teenagers' delicious include sleeping till noon on a Saturday, hitting a home run, camping out (especially in an Eno), Christmas morning, beach vacations, riding four wheelers in the mud, finding the perfect prom dress, hearing the final bell ring in May...
This, of course, inspires me to consider what I deem delicious. A few similarities but I believe that delicious changes for us as the seasons of our lives change. Here is a sampling from my current list:
* sunshine and 70 degrees after a long, dreary winter
* curling up with a good book on a rainy afternoon
* hearing the voice of an old friend on the phone
* quiet mornings with my Bible, devotionals, journal, and pen
* discovering a handwritten letter or card in the mailbox (or on the counter)
* watching the sun set at the beach (or anywhere else)
* finding an unblemished sand dollar along the shore
* seeing a rainbow
* reading a children's book
* belly laughter that leads to tears
* watching a baby sleep
* cooking for a friend in need
* sitting around a campfire
* seeing the sun rise from behind the hills
* sharing a weekend getaway with friends
* sharing a meal and stories around the dinner table when all the boys are
home
The list is truly endless, but as I study it, I realize how all of these are "great works of the LORD"! Everything in creation, family, friendships, books, laughter--it's all of Him. (Colossians 1:16) He spoke everything into existence; He designed families and friendships; He gave the talent for authors to write and illustrators to draw; He purposed a cheerful heart to be good medicine. (Proverbs 17:22) How gracious He is to bestow such gifts! When we trace the roots of our delicious, we find that He is surely the Maker of all.
I especially find this time of year delicious, embracing the emerging springtime. Signs of resurrection all around us foreshadow the coming celebration of our risen Lord: Japanese magnolia blossoms, flowering Bradford pears, clusters of daffodils, patches of phlox, shades of green peaking through the barren ground... All of this without man touching a garden tool. How grateful I am for these delicious reminders of new life! Indeed all creation does testify of the Creator and His most marvelous gift--His risen Son Jesus, our Savior and Lord.
My prayer today is that the Lord might open our eyes to see His great works everywhere and that as we ponder them, we will praise Him. Delicious indeed!
they are pondered by all who delight in them."
Psalm 111:2
Years ago a fourth grade teacher friend shared a wonderful story about a book her class had read called The Search for Delicious. In this book the king's messenger is sent out to poll the kingdom regarding which food should be listed under delicious in the new dictionary since great division on the matter prevails within the castle. The quest proves quite interesting as the responses stretch beyond food, leaving the reader to ponder the answer as well: What is delicious? After discussing it as a class, this savvy teacher then had her students write prominent Mississippi author, John Grisham, asking him to answer the question. She gave me a copy of his letter (dated September 1992) to the class as he offered his insights beyond food on delicious. Here is an excerpt:
"Going to the ballpark and watching kids play baseball is a delicious
experience. Taking a long walk in the woods with my dog Bo on a
cool morning is delicious. Going to church with Renee, Ty, and Shea
is delicious. Watching Ty play soccer and listening to him read a book
is delicious..."
My friend (and her students!) were thrilled that the noted author took time to write them back, and his letter served as a catalyst for their own assignment to define delicious.
I've always loved this story, and through the years have encouraged my students to reflect on what they consider to be delicious. I explain that although we often only associate food with this word, delicious is a close relative of delight. Delicious and delight come from the same Latin root meaning "to please greatly" or "to take pleasure in." Once they get past Grandma's fried chicken, an Oreo blizzard, and Mom's sweet potato casserole, they begin to grasp the idea. Snippets of teenagers' delicious include sleeping till noon on a Saturday, hitting a home run, camping out (especially in an Eno), Christmas morning, beach vacations, riding four wheelers in the mud, finding the perfect prom dress, hearing the final bell ring in May...
This, of course, inspires me to consider what I deem delicious. A few similarities but I believe that delicious changes for us as the seasons of our lives change. Here is a sampling from my current list:
* sunshine and 70 degrees after a long, dreary winter
* curling up with a good book on a rainy afternoon
* hearing the voice of an old friend on the phone
* quiet mornings with my Bible, devotionals, journal, and pen
* discovering a handwritten letter or card in the mailbox (or on the counter)
* watching the sun set at the beach (or anywhere else)
* finding an unblemished sand dollar along the shore
* seeing a rainbow
* reading a children's book
* belly laughter that leads to tears
* watching a baby sleep
* cooking for a friend in need
* sitting around a campfire
* seeing the sun rise from behind the hills
* sharing a weekend getaway with friends
* sharing a meal and stories around the dinner table when all the boys are
home
The list is truly endless, but as I study it, I realize how all of these are "great works of the LORD"! Everything in creation, family, friendships, books, laughter--it's all of Him. (Colossians 1:16) He spoke everything into existence; He designed families and friendships; He gave the talent for authors to write and illustrators to draw; He purposed a cheerful heart to be good medicine. (Proverbs 17:22) How gracious He is to bestow such gifts! When we trace the roots of our delicious, we find that He is surely the Maker of all.
I especially find this time of year delicious, embracing the emerging springtime. Signs of resurrection all around us foreshadow the coming celebration of our risen Lord: Japanese magnolia blossoms, flowering Bradford pears, clusters of daffodils, patches of phlox, shades of green peaking through the barren ground... All of this without man touching a garden tool. How grateful I am for these delicious reminders of new life! Indeed all creation does testify of the Creator and His most marvelous gift--His risen Son Jesus, our Savior and Lord.
My prayer today is that the Lord might open our eyes to see His great works everywhere and that as we ponder them, we will praise Him. Delicious indeed!
Thursday, January 30, 2014
Glory Revealed
"The heavens declare the glory of God;
the skies proclaim the work of His hands.
Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they display knowledge."
Psalm 19:1-2
For many of us January seems interminable. We crawl through, mumbling about the cold temperatures, the overcast skies, the piercing wind. Barren trees, crunchy lawns, and swirling leaves mark our neighborhoods as we bemoan the bleakness of winter. The twinkling lights and festive Christmas decorations are stored away, college football is over, and we long for the radiance of sunshine. Well, this week I think we got our Sonshine.
Here at the end of this long month we were graced with an unexpected blessing--a snowfall that paralyzed a city within an hour. A blessing you say? Thousands of children remained at school. Countless people could not leave work. Many were stranded along the roads. Yes, a blessing. For as many unfortunate circumstances the snow created, the kindness and compassion of friends and colleagues and strangers appeared--the hands and feet of Jesus. The stories continue to pour in: people getting out of their cars and enduring the frigid temperatures to help another push his or her vehicle to the side of the road; people offering those walking a ride home or at least as close to home as the ice would allow; people opening their homes to others needing a bed and a hot shower; friends taking in others' children whose parents were stranded...
At a time when technology seems sometimes to be distancing relationships, through the snow the Lord offered us a window to see what really matters
--people and relationships. I was at school where our extraordinary administrative team set the tone for magnanimous leadership and calm in a difficult situation. Overseeing several hundred teenagers overnight is a daunting task, yet they carefully devised a plan for supervision that worked. After dinner each of us gathered ten students (separated by gender) that would be our charges for the night. We took them back to our rooms for movies, games, and hallway walks until lights out at 11:00; then they curled up on the floor with backpacks for pillows and jackets for blankets, making valiant attempts to sleep. These students were remarkable. Perhaps they saw the "No Whining" sign in my room, but there were few complaints. I think the more stories we heard and pictures we saw of those stranded out on the roads, the more thankful we became for being sheltered in a warm, safe place. Many of the teachers didn't really sleep much, alternating between resting for a while and then joining a group of "hall monitors" for a while. But in these wee hours of the morning relationships were forged. This snow-induced sleepover offered opportunity for conversations beyond the classroom and a bond sealed by these circumstances. We told stories and laughed and cried and learned much about one another. Throughout the night administrators walked the halls checking on both students and teachers, asking if we needed anything. As people sought comfort, there was a mass sale of HHS sweatshirts from the SGA sponsor, and those with exercise clothes at school offered tennis shoes and t-shirts and sweats for those who had been wearing skirts and heels. One teacher dug out several years' worth of old classroom curtains to serve as blankets for her students. Phone chargers and saline solution were exchanged. Stashes of Laffy Taffy and lollipops were shared. A tube of toothpaste became a precious commodity Wednesday morning as students eagerly lined up for a dab on their finger, murmuring "thank you" as they began the finger brush. Their gratitude for the little things has left an indelible heart print.
Among the unsung heroes of this night at the school were the dear ladies in our lunchroom. Three delicious meals they graciously prepared, serving them with bright smiles and exceptional patience. Students were called to eat by floors so in three shifts they served each meal. These ladies had worked diligently, offering four choices for dinner Tuesday evening; then we enjoyed scrambled eggs, sausage, grits, and biscuits Wednesday morning and chicken sandwiches later that day for lunch. Each time they greeted students and staff with smiles and kindness in spite of their own sleep deprivation. They actually seemed delighted to be able to serve us!
The ladies at the front desks also modeled incredible patience. Answering the incessant phone calls and paging students for check out intermittently from about 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. on Tuesday; then starting again about 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday there was a steady flow of parents checking out their children throughout the day. Their voices over the intercom never revealed the exhaustion they must have felt. Grace under pressure. What a privilege to work among such servant hearts!
Though many want to place blame on weather forecasters, this surprise "snowpacolypse" (as many have come to affectionately call it) is simply a reminder that the Lord indeed is sovereign, and the skies still proclaim the work of His hands. Regardless of forecasts, the heavens ultimately declare His glory. Not too long after I returned home Wednesday afternoon, I glanced out the window and caught the magnificent sunset below. Yet another reminder of the splendor of His glory. I'd like to think years from now as we reflect on this history-making event, our memories will not be of the inconveniences or discomfort but on the benevolence and hospitality displayed in our community--people being kind to one another, loving one another, and serving one another. Because of the snow, the gospel has been on display by so many, reflecting God's glory in immeasurable ways. Yes, the Son did shine in January after all--a blessing indeed...
the skies proclaim the work of His hands.
Day after day they pour forth speech;
night after night they display knowledge."
Psalm 19:1-2
For many of us January seems interminable. We crawl through, mumbling about the cold temperatures, the overcast skies, the piercing wind. Barren trees, crunchy lawns, and swirling leaves mark our neighborhoods as we bemoan the bleakness of winter. The twinkling lights and festive Christmas decorations are stored away, college football is over, and we long for the radiance of sunshine. Well, this week I think we got our Sonshine.
Here at the end of this long month we were graced with an unexpected blessing--a snowfall that paralyzed a city within an hour. A blessing you say? Thousands of children remained at school. Countless people could not leave work. Many were stranded along the roads. Yes, a blessing. For as many unfortunate circumstances the snow created, the kindness and compassion of friends and colleagues and strangers appeared--the hands and feet of Jesus. The stories continue to pour in: people getting out of their cars and enduring the frigid temperatures to help another push his or her vehicle to the side of the road; people offering those walking a ride home or at least as close to home as the ice would allow; people opening their homes to others needing a bed and a hot shower; friends taking in others' children whose parents were stranded...
At a time when technology seems sometimes to be distancing relationships, through the snow the Lord offered us a window to see what really matters
--people and relationships. I was at school where our extraordinary administrative team set the tone for magnanimous leadership and calm in a difficult situation. Overseeing several hundred teenagers overnight is a daunting task, yet they carefully devised a plan for supervision that worked. After dinner each of us gathered ten students (separated by gender) that would be our charges for the night. We took them back to our rooms for movies, games, and hallway walks until lights out at 11:00; then they curled up on the floor with backpacks for pillows and jackets for blankets, making valiant attempts to sleep. These students were remarkable. Perhaps they saw the "No Whining" sign in my room, but there were few complaints. I think the more stories we heard and pictures we saw of those stranded out on the roads, the more thankful we became for being sheltered in a warm, safe place. Many of the teachers didn't really sleep much, alternating between resting for a while and then joining a group of "hall monitors" for a while. But in these wee hours of the morning relationships were forged. This snow-induced sleepover offered opportunity for conversations beyond the classroom and a bond sealed by these circumstances. We told stories and laughed and cried and learned much about one another. Throughout the night administrators walked the halls checking on both students and teachers, asking if we needed anything. As people sought comfort, there was a mass sale of HHS sweatshirts from the SGA sponsor, and those with exercise clothes at school offered tennis shoes and t-shirts and sweats for those who had been wearing skirts and heels. One teacher dug out several years' worth of old classroom curtains to serve as blankets for her students. Phone chargers and saline solution were exchanged. Stashes of Laffy Taffy and lollipops were shared. A tube of toothpaste became a precious commodity Wednesday morning as students eagerly lined up for a dab on their finger, murmuring "thank you" as they began the finger brush. Their gratitude for the little things has left an indelible heart print.
Among the unsung heroes of this night at the school were the dear ladies in our lunchroom. Three delicious meals they graciously prepared, serving them with bright smiles and exceptional patience. Students were called to eat by floors so in three shifts they served each meal. These ladies had worked diligently, offering four choices for dinner Tuesday evening; then we enjoyed scrambled eggs, sausage, grits, and biscuits Wednesday morning and chicken sandwiches later that day for lunch. Each time they greeted students and staff with smiles and kindness in spite of their own sleep deprivation. They actually seemed delighted to be able to serve us!
The ladies at the front desks also modeled incredible patience. Answering the incessant phone calls and paging students for check out intermittently from about 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. on Tuesday; then starting again about 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday there was a steady flow of parents checking out their children throughout the day. Their voices over the intercom never revealed the exhaustion they must have felt. Grace under pressure. What a privilege to work among such servant hearts!
Though many want to place blame on weather forecasters, this surprise "snowpacolypse" (as many have come to affectionately call it) is simply a reminder that the Lord indeed is sovereign, and the skies still proclaim the work of His hands. Regardless of forecasts, the heavens ultimately declare His glory. Not too long after I returned home Wednesday afternoon, I glanced out the window and caught the magnificent sunset below. Yet another reminder of the splendor of His glory. I'd like to think years from now as we reflect on this history-making event, our memories will not be of the inconveniences or discomfort but on the benevolence and hospitality displayed in our community--people being kind to one another, loving one another, and serving one another. Because of the snow, the gospel has been on display by so many, reflecting God's glory in immeasurable ways. Yes, the Son did shine in January after all--a blessing indeed...
Saturday, May 18, 2013
Graduation Grace
"O LORD, you are my God;
I will exalt You and praise Your name,
for in perfect faithfulness
You have done marvelous things,
things planned long ago."
Isaiah 25:1
Can this really be the middle of May? Time has galloped these last few weeks with graduation season upon us. Caleb is officially a University of Alabama alumnus, his girlfriend Dallas now an Ole Miss graduate, and Hunter will receive his Hoover High diploma next week. Amid the echoes of "Pomp and Circumstance," we have so much to be thankful for: that Austin had a timely break from IMAX and is able to be home for his brothers, that Caleb has a job to begin on July 1st, that Hunter has stayed the course and been blessed with several scholarships. Probably the most meaningful is the one given in honor of Gene Godwin, a long-time principal at Hoover, who lost his battle with cancer several years ago. As Mrs. Godwin announced Hunter as the recipient, she closed with, "And I know his dad would be proud." Indeed. God has been so faithful in even the smallest details, allowing us to truly celebrate these milestones in spite of dewy eyes. The tears have flowed freely as emotions run the full gamut--joy, sadness, nostalgia, pride.
Six years ago when Austin graduated, a sweet friend sent a gift for me along with his present: Karen Kingsbury's poignant children's book entitled Let Me Hold You Longer. In the story the mom ponders some of the "lasts" in her child's life: the last bottle she gave him, the last time she picked him up, the last time she rocked him, the last time she drove him to school... those unrecorded moments that mesh with life and drift from us unaware. But I have to think how gracious our Savior is that these are not defined moments, for we might have missed the joy in them if we had known they would be the last. Thus I cannot recall the last field trip signature or the last lunch money request from any of the boys as they dropped by my classroom. I only know how blessed I was to occasionally see them at school--from a distance at a pep rally or in the hallway for a brief conversation.
Rather than lasts, I've asked the Lord to help me focus on the firsts--on what lies ahead. After all, commencements really are the beginnings. As Paul tells the Philippians, "But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (3:13-14) I'm so thankful for these diplomas and honors and memories and yes, even the trials that the Lord has used to strengthen us all. I'm excited to see all the boys build new relationships and set new goals and enjoy new adventures. Even as He knit them together those years ago He designed great plans for their lives. What pleasure He brings in watching them unfold! Along the way I pray that He would give them ample opportunities to serve others--and eyes to see those opportunities--for therein lies the real joy.
And so with a thankful heart I will watch this youngest son walk across the stage next week, celebrating what has been, rejoicing in what lies ahead, and assured all the while that our Heavenly Father goes before him. Sweet peace...
"The LORD Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."
Deuteronomy 31:8
I will exalt You and praise Your name,
for in perfect faithfulness
You have done marvelous things,
things planned long ago."
Isaiah 25:1
Can this really be the middle of May? Time has galloped these last few weeks with graduation season upon us. Caleb is officially a University of Alabama alumnus, his girlfriend Dallas now an Ole Miss graduate, and Hunter will receive his Hoover High diploma next week. Amid the echoes of "Pomp and Circumstance," we have so much to be thankful for: that Austin had a timely break from IMAX and is able to be home for his brothers, that Caleb has a job to begin on July 1st, that Hunter has stayed the course and been blessed with several scholarships. Probably the most meaningful is the one given in honor of Gene Godwin, a long-time principal at Hoover, who lost his battle with cancer several years ago. As Mrs. Godwin announced Hunter as the recipient, she closed with, "And I know his dad would be proud." Indeed. God has been so faithful in even the smallest details, allowing us to truly celebrate these milestones in spite of dewy eyes. The tears have flowed freely as emotions run the full gamut--joy, sadness, nostalgia, pride.
Six years ago when Austin graduated, a sweet friend sent a gift for me along with his present: Karen Kingsbury's poignant children's book entitled Let Me Hold You Longer. In the story the mom ponders some of the "lasts" in her child's life: the last bottle she gave him, the last time she picked him up, the last time she rocked him, the last time she drove him to school... those unrecorded moments that mesh with life and drift from us unaware. But I have to think how gracious our Savior is that these are not defined moments, for we might have missed the joy in them if we had known they would be the last. Thus I cannot recall the last field trip signature or the last lunch money request from any of the boys as they dropped by my classroom. I only know how blessed I was to occasionally see them at school--from a distance at a pep rally or in the hallway for a brief conversation.
Rather than lasts, I've asked the Lord to help me focus on the firsts--on what lies ahead. After all, commencements really are the beginnings. As Paul tells the Philippians, "But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." (3:13-14) I'm so thankful for these diplomas and honors and memories and yes, even the trials that the Lord has used to strengthen us all. I'm excited to see all the boys build new relationships and set new goals and enjoy new adventures. Even as He knit them together those years ago He designed great plans for their lives. What pleasure He brings in watching them unfold! Along the way I pray that He would give them ample opportunities to serve others--and eyes to see those opportunities--for therein lies the real joy.
And so with a thankful heart I will watch this youngest son walk across the stage next week, celebrating what has been, rejoicing in what lies ahead, and assured all the while that our Heavenly Father goes before him. Sweet peace...
"The LORD Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."
Deuteronomy 31:8
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Win the Day
"Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power."
Ephesians 6:10
Perhaps because Caleb's sweet girlfriend is a student at Ole Miss and he has attended several of their games in the past couple of years, he has developed a keen interest in their football program. (Never mind that his school's team has won three national championships in his four years of college!) A few weeks ago he was telling me how he really admires their coach and his philosophy-- "Win the Day"--sharing that he has adopted this idea in working through his grief. "Mom, every morning I just wake up and ask God to help me "win the day." I've pondered that conversation more than once since then and realized what a splendid idea this is.
For surely every morning we all face a battle--for our minds and for our hearts. Among our opponent's weapons are anxiety, confusion, fear, and sadness. He would have us be fretful, jumbled, frightened, and sorrowful, wandering
aimlessly about questioning our purpose. But God (there's that beautiful phrase again!) has graciously given us the armor that will equip us to overcome this foe--to win the day. His Word is the best playbook out there. So many of His precious promises help thwart the adversary's attacks if we meditate on these (our practice drills):
* He promises to carry our burdens and give us rest: "Come to Me,
all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle
and humble in heart, and You will find rest for your souls."
(Matthew 11:28-29) What a marvelous gift--rest for our souls!
When we feel overwhelmed by decisions to be made or tasks to
be completed, He says, "Give them to Me." What a relief when
we recognize that He does not intend for us to carry these loads
alone. When I hand off the ball, which is His desire, the day is won!
* He promises to give us strength and peace: "The LORD gives
strength to His people; the LORD blesses His people with
peace." (Psalm 29:11) As I reflect on the strength the Lord
has provided to our family throughout the last year, I am
reminded of His undeniable, unfathomable power. Some days
that has simply been strength enough to look for a greeting
card or fill out a field trip form or make it through the "Revelation"
song during worship. Other times He has given strength to
gather pictures for Hunter's senior page in the yearbook or
truly celebrate a birthday or holiday. Those early Sunday school
answers are indeed the key: "Read your Bible and pray."
As I spend time in His Word (conditioning/training), He has
faithfully given strength and peace prevails. The joy of the
Lord is my strength, and the day is won!
* He promises that nothing can come between us and His love:
"Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither
the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height
nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to
separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our
Lord." (Romans 8:38-39) Yes, with an everlasting love He has
loved us; thus, we should have no fear, especially of the future.
Nothing that happens today will occur apart from His holy
hand that is upon us every moment. "You hem me in--behind
and before; You have laid Your hand upon me." (Psalm 139:5)
These words can smother the "what ifs" as we focus on I AM.
He is our guard who protects and secures, allowing nothing
to come between us. Resting in that knowledge assures that we
will win the day!
* He promises that He will turn our grief into joy: "Weeping may
remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning."
(Psalm 30:5) This night seems long at times, but I am relying
on our Heavenly Father whose faithfulness is boundless. That
rejoicing in the morning often comes from just being still and
knowing that His presence fills this very room. When I read the
countless promises in His Word, that peace like a river floods my
soul. I am ready for the day, ready for the victory. Together we
will win this day!
Coach Freeze and his Rebels (or Black Bears?) found success with his Win the Day motto, and I'm thinking Caleb is on to something with his morning prayer. Not just for ourselves, but for our fellow travelers who are in battles of their own-- "Lord Jesus, we know you are on our side and we have ultimate victory in You. Please help us all to 'Win this day' so that others might see Your light reflected in our lives. To Your name be all the glory and power. Amen."
"You cannot expect to be victorious if the day begins only in your own strength. Face the work of every day with the influence of a few thoughtful, quiet moments with your heart and God."
from Streams in the Desert
Now let's go win this day!
Ephesians 6:10
Perhaps because Caleb's sweet girlfriend is a student at Ole Miss and he has attended several of their games in the past couple of years, he has developed a keen interest in their football program. (Never mind that his school's team has won three national championships in his four years of college!) A few weeks ago he was telling me how he really admires their coach and his philosophy-- "Win the Day"--sharing that he has adopted this idea in working through his grief. "Mom, every morning I just wake up and ask God to help me "win the day." I've pondered that conversation more than once since then and realized what a splendid idea this is.
For surely every morning we all face a battle--for our minds and for our hearts. Among our opponent's weapons are anxiety, confusion, fear, and sadness. He would have us be fretful, jumbled, frightened, and sorrowful, wandering
aimlessly about questioning our purpose. But God (there's that beautiful phrase again!) has graciously given us the armor that will equip us to overcome this foe--to win the day. His Word is the best playbook out there. So many of His precious promises help thwart the adversary's attacks if we meditate on these (our practice drills):
* He promises to carry our burdens and give us rest: "Come to Me,
all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle
and humble in heart, and You will find rest for your souls."
(Matthew 11:28-29) What a marvelous gift--rest for our souls!
When we feel overwhelmed by decisions to be made or tasks to
be completed, He says, "Give them to Me." What a relief when
we recognize that He does not intend for us to carry these loads
alone. When I hand off the ball, which is His desire, the day is won!
* He promises to give us strength and peace: "The LORD gives
strength to His people; the LORD blesses His people with
peace." (Psalm 29:11) As I reflect on the strength the Lord
has provided to our family throughout the last year, I am
reminded of His undeniable, unfathomable power. Some days
that has simply been strength enough to look for a greeting
card or fill out a field trip form or make it through the "Revelation"
song during worship. Other times He has given strength to
gather pictures for Hunter's senior page in the yearbook or
truly celebrate a birthday or holiday. Those early Sunday school
answers are indeed the key: "Read your Bible and pray."
As I spend time in His Word (conditioning/training), He has
faithfully given strength and peace prevails. The joy of the
Lord is my strength, and the day is won!
* He promises that nothing can come between us and His love:
"Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither
the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height
nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to
separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our
Lord." (Romans 8:38-39) Yes, with an everlasting love He has
loved us; thus, we should have no fear, especially of the future.
Nothing that happens today will occur apart from His holy
hand that is upon us every moment. "You hem me in--behind
and before; You have laid Your hand upon me." (Psalm 139:5)
These words can smother the "what ifs" as we focus on I AM.
He is our guard who protects and secures, allowing nothing
to come between us. Resting in that knowledge assures that we
will win the day!
* He promises that He will turn our grief into joy: "Weeping may
remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning."
(Psalm 30:5) This night seems long at times, but I am relying
on our Heavenly Father whose faithfulness is boundless. That
rejoicing in the morning often comes from just being still and
knowing that His presence fills this very room. When I read the
countless promises in His Word, that peace like a river floods my
soul. I am ready for the day, ready for the victory. Together we
will win this day!
Coach Freeze and his Rebels (or Black Bears?) found success with his Win the Day motto, and I'm thinking Caleb is on to something with his morning prayer. Not just for ourselves, but for our fellow travelers who are in battles of their own-- "Lord Jesus, we know you are on our side and we have ultimate victory in You. Please help us all to 'Win this day' so that others might see Your light reflected in our lives. To Your name be all the glory and power. Amen."
"You cannot expect to be victorious if the day begins only in your own strength. Face the work of every day with the influence of a few thoughtful, quiet moments with your heart and God."
from Streams in the Desert
Now let's go win this day!
Monday, February 4, 2013
Amazing Grace
"My frame was not hidden from You
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
Your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in Your book
before one of them came to be."
Psalm 139:16
One of my all-time favorite wedding gifts is a family Christmas book given to us by a dear friend who loves Christmas as much as I do. I remember my delight opening it and seeing "The Gibson Family" engraved on the front. Since December 1987 I have set aside an evening during the holidays to fill in the pages for that year that include these reflections: "Where We Gathered," "Those who Joined in the Cheer," "Special Events of the Holiday Season," "Memories of the Past Year," a place for a family photo, and a place to post the Christmas card we sent. Truly it is a treasure--a Gibson family history book of sorts. When the boys were in elementary and middle school, writing those autobiographies, I would often go to the Christmas book to help them remember what year those monumental events occurred: when we got Shelby (our first dog) or what year someone got his first stitches or when we hiked Mount LeConte... (Once I began writing Christmas letters I would just place one in the book to cover the "Memories of the Past Year" part.) We've often enjoyed just flipping through the Christmas card photos and seeing the boys' changes each year (and laughing about the sometimes--okay, often times--stressful photo-taking fiascos!) As much as I have cherished this book through the years, I never knew that the Lord would use it to remind us of His sovereignty and His grace. You see, the following poem is printed on the first page of the book:
"Keep this family Christmas book
Faithfully through the years.
Record your Christmas memories,
The love and the good cheer.
When twenty-five years have come and gone
Won't it be a pleasure,
To have this book to cherish
As your special Christmas treasure."
Yes, the last pages of this book covered Christmas 2011--our 25th and last Christmas together. So even as I opened this gift in the spring of 1987, our Heavenly Father knew the plan for February 3, 2012. Simply amazing.
But He was not finished offering His reassurance. Last summer I was going through a drawer where I keep lots of papers, journals, cards, and "stuff," when I came across Jim's deacon ordination certificate. I smiled upon remembrance of that special occasion and Jim's inherent desire to serve. But when my eyes caught the date, I literally gasped out loud: February 3, 2010. As I sat on the floor weeping, I couldn't help but wonder why the Lord would be so gracious to actually show me that this was indeed His plan. In faith I have had to trust Him, but He has clearly revealed His truth in Psalm 139: that He has ordained every single day for us even before one of them came to be. This side of eternity I will never know why His plan provided only 50 years here for my dear Jim, but I do know that I can trust our sovereign Lord and Creator who has made it so clear that this was surely His design.
And so today--February 3, 2013--worship began with the orchestra playing "I Stand in Awe." This was followed by the choir singing one of my all time favorites, "Lord, You're Holy." In this powerful anthem the Lord is proclaimed as Healer, Deliverer, Strong Tower, Shield, my Best Friend, Triumphant, Mighty, Glorious, and Victorious--among many other names. This past year He has graciously allowed me to know Him more intimately in all of these ways. Surely as the song says, "You are worthy of all praise."
Now one more amazing thing: Our pastor began a sermon series last month entitled "The Gospel on Display," taking us chronologically through the book of 2 Corinthians as Paul speaks boldly to the church at Corinth. Today's passage from chapter two included verses 12-17; these are verses 14-15:
"But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession,
and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of Him everywhere.
For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved
and among those who are perishing."
As Buddy reminded us that we are to be that sweet fragrance of Christ, my mind drifted to Caleb standing on that same platform sharing this same Scripture at Jim's service a year ago. Caleb had concluded his message with: "My dad had that aroma--that fragrance of Christ. You could just smell it on him wherever he went." So true... Back to the present and my heart (and my eyes) were full, yet once again I was awed that God would make His Presence so vividly clear to us on this day.
Indeed these last few days have been quite emotional, but we rest in knowing that this great God, who fixed the moon and the sun and the stars in the sky, loves each of us far more than we can comprehend, and He has a plan for each of our lives. With this everlasting love He has carried us and sustained us every step of every day, giving us precious glimpses of His amazing grace along the way. We are blessed.
"And I stand, I stand in awe of You
I stand, I stand in awe of You;
Holy God to whom all praise is due
I stand in awe of You."
.
when I was made in the secret place.
When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,
Your eyes saw my unformed body.
All the days ordained for me
were written in Your book
before one of them came to be."
Psalm 139:16
One of my all-time favorite wedding gifts is a family Christmas book given to us by a dear friend who loves Christmas as much as I do. I remember my delight opening it and seeing "The Gibson Family" engraved on the front. Since December 1987 I have set aside an evening during the holidays to fill in the pages for that year that include these reflections: "Where We Gathered," "Those who Joined in the Cheer," "Special Events of the Holiday Season," "Memories of the Past Year," a place for a family photo, and a place to post the Christmas card we sent. Truly it is a treasure--a Gibson family history book of sorts. When the boys were in elementary and middle school, writing those autobiographies, I would often go to the Christmas book to help them remember what year those monumental events occurred: when we got Shelby (our first dog) or what year someone got his first stitches or when we hiked Mount LeConte... (Once I began writing Christmas letters I would just place one in the book to cover the "Memories of the Past Year" part.) We've often enjoyed just flipping through the Christmas card photos and seeing the boys' changes each year (and laughing about the sometimes--okay, often times--stressful photo-taking fiascos!) As much as I have cherished this book through the years, I never knew that the Lord would use it to remind us of His sovereignty and His grace. You see, the following poem is printed on the first page of the book:
"Keep this family Christmas book
Faithfully through the years.
Record your Christmas memories,
The love and the good cheer.
When twenty-five years have come and gone
Won't it be a pleasure,
To have this book to cherish
As your special Christmas treasure."
Yes, the last pages of this book covered Christmas 2011--our 25th and last Christmas together. So even as I opened this gift in the spring of 1987, our Heavenly Father knew the plan for February 3, 2012. Simply amazing.
But He was not finished offering His reassurance. Last summer I was going through a drawer where I keep lots of papers, journals, cards, and "stuff," when I came across Jim's deacon ordination certificate. I smiled upon remembrance of that special occasion and Jim's inherent desire to serve. But when my eyes caught the date, I literally gasped out loud: February 3, 2010. As I sat on the floor weeping, I couldn't help but wonder why the Lord would be so gracious to actually show me that this was indeed His plan. In faith I have had to trust Him, but He has clearly revealed His truth in Psalm 139: that He has ordained every single day for us even before one of them came to be. This side of eternity I will never know why His plan provided only 50 years here for my dear Jim, but I do know that I can trust our sovereign Lord and Creator who has made it so clear that this was surely His design.
And so today--February 3, 2013--worship began with the orchestra playing "I Stand in Awe." This was followed by the choir singing one of my all time favorites, "Lord, You're Holy." In this powerful anthem the Lord is proclaimed as Healer, Deliverer, Strong Tower, Shield, my Best Friend, Triumphant, Mighty, Glorious, and Victorious--among many other names. This past year He has graciously allowed me to know Him more intimately in all of these ways. Surely as the song says, "You are worthy of all praise."
Now one more amazing thing: Our pastor began a sermon series last month entitled "The Gospel on Display," taking us chronologically through the book of 2 Corinthians as Paul speaks boldly to the church at Corinth. Today's passage from chapter two included verses 12-17; these are verses 14-15:
"But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession,
and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of Him everywhere.
For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved
and among those who are perishing."
As Buddy reminded us that we are to be that sweet fragrance of Christ, my mind drifted to Caleb standing on that same platform sharing this same Scripture at Jim's service a year ago. Caleb had concluded his message with: "My dad had that aroma--that fragrance of Christ. You could just smell it on him wherever he went." So true... Back to the present and my heart (and my eyes) were full, yet once again I was awed that God would make His Presence so vividly clear to us on this day.
Indeed these last few days have been quite emotional, but we rest in knowing that this great God, who fixed the moon and the sun and the stars in the sky, loves each of us far more than we can comprehend, and He has a plan for each of our lives. With this everlasting love He has carried us and sustained us every step of every day, giving us precious glimpses of His amazing grace along the way. We are blessed.
"And I stand, I stand in awe of You
I stand, I stand in awe of You;
Holy God to whom all praise is due
I stand in awe of You."
.
Thursday, January 24, 2013
His Fingerprints in the Chalkdust
"I remember the days of long ago
I meditate on all Your works
and consider what Your hands have done."
Psalm 143:5
Last summer when we learned that our students would be getting iPads this school year, I began to reflect on my early days of teaching and all the changes that have evolved during these thirty plus years. (Can I really be that old?) My first teaching position was at a small private school in south Louisiana--a three-story transformed women's college that had limited resources. After I was hired, my principal handed me four books--a 9th and 12th grade literature book and a 9th and 12th grade grammar book--all student editions. He smiled and said, "Good luck--now go teach!" Yes, these four books comprised my curriculum materials; thus, I spent most evenings writing/typing on the purple ditto masters and scurrying in the next morning to literally "crank out" the copies. My classroom was on the third floor so "Miss Walker" got plenty of exercise. How many mornings I remember praying with each step that the Lord would equip me to do what I knew He had called me to do. As always, He was faithful--although I probably learned more in those two years than my students did!
In the fall of 1983 He led me to a public school in south Mississippi. How thrilled I was that we had a real copy machine! (Never mind that this was my personal nemesis on more than one morning...) I was given teacher editions of my 10th grade textbooks--a most coveted gift--and I discovered a few file folders of former teachers' notes and tests. Since blackboards were still a useful resource, I went home many days sprinkled with chalkdust. I continued to pray that God would grant me wisdom to fulfill my daily tasks as He steadily grew me during those wonderful years at Oak Grove. He graciously gave me an extended family in that faculty who cheered alongside as I married, became a mom, and then made the difficult decision to resign and start a new journey as full-time mom.
Although I was incredibly grateful to be able to stay at home with the boys those years while they were young, I sometimes wondered if I would be able to "catch up" when I one day returned to the secondary classroom. Fortunately, computers were just emerging as teaching companions when I re-entered the profession full time at Hoover about ten years ago. Wow--since that time technology seems to have moved at Mach I speed! Document cameras, projectors, smart boards, airliners, portable laptop carts... Whew! And now the iPads... One of the many blessings in all of this is the inability to grow complacent. Regardless of how seasoned some of us veterans are, we must still rely on the Lord to provide us with an open mind and a teachable spirit to embrace these changes in education.
And as only He could plan, my students received their iPads the day we returned from the holidays, compelling my attention to designing ways to incorporate these "cool tools" into my everyday instruction. But here is the beautiful thing about His timing: On January 1, I specifically called on the Lord as my Shield--asking Him to guard my mind from the agony of last January, to shield me from paralyzing memories that "disturb the peace." Others might suggest that this is mere coincidence, but no--our God is faithful to answer--sometimes in intriguing ways. By sending such a consuming diversion, He has protected me from wayward thoughts and further heartache for this time.
Yes, this old dog--this technologically challenged dog--is learning new tricks and really enjoying it! Already I have observed distinct benefits. Using a journal app for their daily writing prompt, my students are writing significantly more every day--which will ultimately translate into better. This is especially notable for some generally reluctant writers. Having a personal white board already in their hands for daily vocabulary review has fostered engagement for every student. (No time lost in handing out boards/markers/erasers, replacing dried up markers...) We have just begun reading a class novel, and I love seeing them annotate with their index finger! Certainly there are challenges to face alongside these advantages--away, you angry birds, you tweeters--but the call still stands to lean on the Lord. He graciously continues to supply all my needs...
Jehovah Jireh--The Lord Who Provides--on all days, in all ways, He offers His provision. How thankful I am for all the ways He has provided throughout my years as a teacher. How reassuring to trace His hand down this path and see His loving guidance, His compassion, His precious children. How gracious for Him to guide and guard me through this season. Even a beautiful snowfall last week served as a sweet gift, a reminder of the majesty of our Creator. Yes, Jehovah Jireh, my Provider, You are more than enough for me.
"Be at rest once more, O my soul,
for the LORD has been good to you."
Psalm 116:7
I meditate on all Your works
and consider what Your hands have done."
Psalm 143:5
Last summer when we learned that our students would be getting iPads this school year, I began to reflect on my early days of teaching and all the changes that have evolved during these thirty plus years. (Can I really be that old?) My first teaching position was at a small private school in south Louisiana--a three-story transformed women's college that had limited resources. After I was hired, my principal handed me four books--a 9th and 12th grade literature book and a 9th and 12th grade grammar book--all student editions. He smiled and said, "Good luck--now go teach!" Yes, these four books comprised my curriculum materials; thus, I spent most evenings writing/typing on the purple ditto masters and scurrying in the next morning to literally "crank out" the copies. My classroom was on the third floor so "Miss Walker" got plenty of exercise. How many mornings I remember praying with each step that the Lord would equip me to do what I knew He had called me to do. As always, He was faithful--although I probably learned more in those two years than my students did!
In the fall of 1983 He led me to a public school in south Mississippi. How thrilled I was that we had a real copy machine! (Never mind that this was my personal nemesis on more than one morning...) I was given teacher editions of my 10th grade textbooks--a most coveted gift--and I discovered a few file folders of former teachers' notes and tests. Since blackboards were still a useful resource, I went home many days sprinkled with chalkdust. I continued to pray that God would grant me wisdom to fulfill my daily tasks as He steadily grew me during those wonderful years at Oak Grove. He graciously gave me an extended family in that faculty who cheered alongside as I married, became a mom, and then made the difficult decision to resign and start a new journey as full-time mom.
Although I was incredibly grateful to be able to stay at home with the boys those years while they were young, I sometimes wondered if I would be able to "catch up" when I one day returned to the secondary classroom. Fortunately, computers were just emerging as teaching companions when I re-entered the profession full time at Hoover about ten years ago. Wow--since that time technology seems to have moved at Mach I speed! Document cameras, projectors, smart boards, airliners, portable laptop carts... Whew! And now the iPads... One of the many blessings in all of this is the inability to grow complacent. Regardless of how seasoned some of us veterans are, we must still rely on the Lord to provide us with an open mind and a teachable spirit to embrace these changes in education.
And as only He could plan, my students received their iPads the day we returned from the holidays, compelling my attention to designing ways to incorporate these "cool tools" into my everyday instruction. But here is the beautiful thing about His timing: On January 1, I specifically called on the Lord as my Shield--asking Him to guard my mind from the agony of last January, to shield me from paralyzing memories that "disturb the peace." Others might suggest that this is mere coincidence, but no--our God is faithful to answer--sometimes in intriguing ways. By sending such a consuming diversion, He has protected me from wayward thoughts and further heartache for this time.
Yes, this old dog--this technologically challenged dog--is learning new tricks and really enjoying it! Already I have observed distinct benefits. Using a journal app for their daily writing prompt, my students are writing significantly more every day--which will ultimately translate into better. This is especially notable for some generally reluctant writers. Having a personal white board already in their hands for daily vocabulary review has fostered engagement for every student. (No time lost in handing out boards/markers/erasers, replacing dried up markers...) We have just begun reading a class novel, and I love seeing them annotate with their index finger! Certainly there are challenges to face alongside these advantages--away, you angry birds, you tweeters--but the call still stands to lean on the Lord. He graciously continues to supply all my needs...
Jehovah Jireh--The Lord Who Provides--on all days, in all ways, He offers His provision. How thankful I am for all the ways He has provided throughout my years as a teacher. How reassuring to trace His hand down this path and see His loving guidance, His compassion, His precious children. How gracious for Him to guide and guard me through this season. Even a beautiful snowfall last week served as a sweet gift, a reminder of the majesty of our Creator. Yes, Jehovah Jireh, my Provider, You are more than enough for me.
"Be at rest once more, O my soul,
for the LORD has been good to you."
Psalm 116:7
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