Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:22
Loving Creator, Living Christ, Strengthening Holy Spirit, please hear our prayer.
You have so blessed us with all that surrounds us, earth and heavens, family and friends, time and eternity. Thank you for the lives you have given us to see and enjoy all of your wonder.
Holy Spirit, guide me this day to live the Word. To look for and live in the kingdom. Help me take each minute as the time and place you want me to be. To look for you and your purpose in each situation. Help me to live as you plan for me to live, for you and your purpose. Amen
Showing posts with label Holy Spirit. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Holy Spirit. Show all posts
Friday, June 12, 2009
Sunday, May 24, 2009
God's Instructions
I take joy in doing your will, my God, for your instructions are written on my heart. Psalm 40:8
I have been away from the computer for a while, so the blog has fallen behind. I have thought of you often, but I couldn't get my list of priorities right!
Travel has taken me to Missouri and New York; our yellow pad list of to-dos has taken me to places in the yard and around the house I should have been to sooner; golf has been frequent; even some meetings thrown in and there you are. Or here I am.
Golf has been the site of some really good laughs. Two weeks ago I had the lowest round of golf I have ever had in many years. It was followed two days later by one of the highest scores I have ever recorded, well maybe not the highest, but close! 18 strokes higher! No kidding 18. Like one stroke a hole. Same person, same course, same clubs, same brand golf ball. Good grief. However, I know the problem. Concentration and focus. I was really focused on the game, all aspects of it, on my low round. No focus on the higher round. What was the difference? Circumstances. I had a task in front of me for the low round, I knew what I wanted to do, knew I could do it and I did it.
My task on life's journey this last two months or so has been to focus on turning my will over to my God. In a book I was reading I was faced with the realization that I was still scared to give my hands and feet and mouth completely over to God. I mean 100%, not just thinking about it, giving it lip service. I realized I still hold back, I still keep some of myself from complete surrender. I am sure this is familiar to most of us. I lack complete focus and concentration. So I am asking for the Holy Spirit's help. I am slowing down and trying to focus on each individual circumstance of my day. I have it written on my heart that wherever I am, whatever I am doing, I am in the right place for God to love me, to guide me. Now is the perfect time to surrender, not yesterday or tomorrow, not ten minutes ago or thirty minutes from now. Now, each breath. God loves me, God made me, God works in all things for good. If I focus, and listen to the instructions on my heart.
We have finally had some rain, the last few days. Just as the desert opened itself to the water, I am opening myself to the help of the Holy Spirit. Soak me Lord.
I have been away from the computer for a while, so the blog has fallen behind. I have thought of you often, but I couldn't get my list of priorities right!
Travel has taken me to Missouri and New York; our yellow pad list of to-dos has taken me to places in the yard and around the house I should have been to sooner; golf has been frequent; even some meetings thrown in and there you are. Or here I am.
Golf has been the site of some really good laughs. Two weeks ago I had the lowest round of golf I have ever had in many years. It was followed two days later by one of the highest scores I have ever recorded, well maybe not the highest, but close! 18 strokes higher! No kidding 18. Like one stroke a hole. Same person, same course, same clubs, same brand golf ball. Good grief. However, I know the problem. Concentration and focus. I was really focused on the game, all aspects of it, on my low round. No focus on the higher round. What was the difference? Circumstances. I had a task in front of me for the low round, I knew what I wanted to do, knew I could do it and I did it.
My task on life's journey this last two months or so has been to focus on turning my will over to my God. In a book I was reading I was faced with the realization that I was still scared to give my hands and feet and mouth completely over to God. I mean 100%, not just thinking about it, giving it lip service. I realized I still hold back, I still keep some of myself from complete surrender. I am sure this is familiar to most of us. I lack complete focus and concentration. So I am asking for the Holy Spirit's help. I am slowing down and trying to focus on each individual circumstance of my day. I have it written on my heart that wherever I am, whatever I am doing, I am in the right place for God to love me, to guide me. Now is the perfect time to surrender, not yesterday or tomorrow, not ten minutes ago or thirty minutes from now. Now, each breath. God loves me, God made me, God works in all things for good. If I focus, and listen to the instructions on my heart.
We have finally had some rain, the last few days. Just as the desert opened itself to the water, I am opening myself to the help of the Holy Spirit. Soak me Lord.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Waiting for Him
You will be with child and give birth to a son, you are to give to him the name Jesus. He will be great and be called Son of the Most High. The Lord will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end. Luke 1:31-33
God bless us while we await the birth of a new Spirit in us, AMEN
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Trouble Witnessing? Just Listen
A truthful witness gives honest testimony, but a false witness tells lies. Proverbs 12:17
I am in the second day of a two day tounament. Didn't do too good yesterday. No, that is not the truth, I did very well on 15 holes and very poorly on three. On most of the good holes I couldn't have done better, but, boy oh boy, on those stinky ones I could half my scores and still improve! Bad.
To me these two days of golf are a great chance to witness. Now, four or five years ago I could not have said that. I was afraid to witness, I was embarrassed. Basically I didn't know how to do it. I was afraid I would say the wrong thing or give the wrong information. But I think I have now found the key, at least for me. Listening and telling the truth.
First, I usually don't initiate the subject. I listen for The Question. When you spend time with folks, have conversation say on the golf course, in waiting rooms, at parties there are usually many chances to listen. Really focus on what the other is saying. Most often they will ask you what you would do about something or other. How you would respond to a friend causing a problem, what would you do about a child that is going astray. People really like to talk about their hurts and problems. Listen to them, first, this is a chance to show them someone cares. Second, it is a chance to speak of love and forgiveness.
As far as giving the correct information, all you can do is give honest testimony about how love and forgiveness have worked in your life. The Holy Spirit will take what you say and make it useful to the other.
Just listen to what others are saying and asking. Then honestly respond to them with God's love. That is a witness.
I am in the second day of a two day tounament. Didn't do too good yesterday. No, that is not the truth, I did very well on 15 holes and very poorly on three. On most of the good holes I couldn't have done better, but, boy oh boy, on those stinky ones I could half my scores and still improve! Bad.
To me these two days of golf are a great chance to witness. Now, four or five years ago I could not have said that. I was afraid to witness, I was embarrassed. Basically I didn't know how to do it. I was afraid I would say the wrong thing or give the wrong information. But I think I have now found the key, at least for me. Listening and telling the truth.
First, I usually don't initiate the subject. I listen for The Question. When you spend time with folks, have conversation say on the golf course, in waiting rooms, at parties there are usually many chances to listen. Really focus on what the other is saying. Most often they will ask you what you would do about something or other. How you would respond to a friend causing a problem, what would you do about a child that is going astray. People really like to talk about their hurts and problems. Listen to them, first, this is a chance to show them someone cares. Second, it is a chance to speak of love and forgiveness.
As far as giving the correct information, all you can do is give honest testimony about how love and forgiveness have worked in your life. The Holy Spirit will take what you say and make it useful to the other.
Just listen to what others are saying and asking. Then honestly respond to them with God's love. That is a witness.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Healing and Wholeness
"See how God winked at weakness and overlooked failures as He poured upon His servants grace and blessing untold. Let it be Abraham, Jacob, David, Daniel, Elijah or whom you will; honor followed honor as harvest the seed. The man of God set his heart to exalt God above all; God accepted his intention as fact and acted accordingly. Not perfection, but holy intention made the difference." p. 99 The Pursuit of God, A.W. Tozer.
A breathtakingly beautiful day here in south central New Mexico and I am still not back on the golf course. One reason is that I am still resting my ankle. I hope the lesson I take out of this sprain is to slow down; the phone will ring long enough for me to get there, if not, so be it, the answering machine will get it.
This time off has given me time to relive the Conference on Healing and Wholeness I attended Friday and Saturday. I have been back over my handouts and notes and bought a book by a doctor the speaker recognized as helpful. I have also finished up the Tozer book.
We have a prayer ministry at our church and have held healing services, however, we have the need to reevaluate what we are doing and in which direction we need to move. Hence, the conference with Dr. James K. Wagner. We need to focus in on our intentions. What we intend to do, how we intend to do it, why we intend to do it, all important. We will make mistakes, but God won't.
The new book I bought is Healing Words by Larry Dossey, M.D. I really am learning a lot from it. The copyright is 1993, so after I finish this post I am going to see what he has written since.
Reading Tozer and Dossey at the same time is very helpful. I love the fact that I was brought to these two books at the same time. My intention is to really listen to God's voice in this learning process. Give it over to the Holy Spirit to guide me down the path. Learning leads to knowledge which leads to wisdom which will guide my actions.
A breathtakingly beautiful day here in south central New Mexico and I am still not back on the golf course. One reason is that I am still resting my ankle. I hope the lesson I take out of this sprain is to slow down; the phone will ring long enough for me to get there, if not, so be it, the answering machine will get it.
This time off has given me time to relive the Conference on Healing and Wholeness I attended Friday and Saturday. I have been back over my handouts and notes and bought a book by a doctor the speaker recognized as helpful. I have also finished up the Tozer book.
We have a prayer ministry at our church and have held healing services, however, we have the need to reevaluate what we are doing and in which direction we need to move. Hence, the conference with Dr. James K. Wagner. We need to focus in on our intentions. What we intend to do, how we intend to do it, why we intend to do it, all important. We will make mistakes, but God won't.
The new book I bought is Healing Words by Larry Dossey, M.D. I really am learning a lot from it. The copyright is 1993, so after I finish this post I am going to see what he has written since.
Reading Tozer and Dossey at the same time is very helpful. I love the fact that I was brought to these two books at the same time. My intention is to really listen to God's voice in this learning process. Give it over to the Holy Spirit to guide me down the path. Learning leads to knowledge which leads to wisdom which will guide my actions.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Prayer Friday Ephesians 4:3
Make every effort to keep the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace. Ephesians 4:3
Thank you to wayfarerjon at http://walking-with-father.blogspot.com/ for the reminder of this verse. His story will lead us into our weekly prayer.
Loving Creator, Living Christ, Bold and Caring Holy Spirit,
Thank you for all the blessings that have flowed into my life this week and every week. I am sure I have not noticed many because I was too busy or inattentive to recognize them. But they are there.
I want so much to keep the bond of peace alive in my life at every breath. I know it starts with me. Help me do nothing to endanger the love that should and can flow between and in all of your creation.
I believe in the Living Christ and the Body of Christ. I will do no harm. I will look for those you have put in my life to help keep the unity. I will make every effort to guard my mind and my mouth from doing anything to upset the Peace beyond all understanding.
Amen
Thank you to wayfarerjon at http://walking-with-father.blogspot.com/ for the reminder of this verse. His story will lead us into our weekly prayer.
Loving Creator, Living Christ, Bold and Caring Holy Spirit,
Thank you for all the blessings that have flowed into my life this week and every week. I am sure I have not noticed many because I was too busy or inattentive to recognize them. But they are there.
I want so much to keep the bond of peace alive in my life at every breath. I know it starts with me. Help me do nothing to endanger the love that should and can flow between and in all of your creation.
I believe in the Living Christ and the Body of Christ. I will do no harm. I will look for those you have put in my life to help keep the unity. I will make every effort to guard my mind and my mouth from doing anything to upset the Peace beyond all understanding.
Amen
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Still Trying
Still Loving the Neighbor !!
You know when you sincerely start to work on this it is really hard, and I hate to admit that. It hurts to admit you are having trouble with a direction from Christ that sounds so Christian-like. So basic. I always try to start these soul searching, walk the path improvements close to home. Family, then start practicing the "walk your talk" with your closest friends, then spread out to notice the people around you as you do your daily errands, work your job, commute. Then take it to the people outside your "beltway".
I am about politic-ed out. Two more nights of the second convention, plus all the hype and too many talking-head discussions. This is where loving your neighbor really gets hard. When will we learn we have one nation to love and take care of, protect and serve? Not divide and win, pull down and stomp on. How do I love (either side) people that look for the most damaging information they can find, just to use it to take someone else down. Where is forgiveness, patience, just plain old civility?
I know it starts with me. I need to overlook, forgive, realize these are egos vastly out of whack. Crippled egos that are not looking for guidance from the Holy Spirit. I need to look at these people as children of God, God's creations that God loves. Try to love them with Christlike love. I am really trying, but this is difficult. Only prayer and constant reminder of God's love for all will keep me trying to see past the horrible things that are being done in the cause of winning an election.
You know when you sincerely start to work on this it is really hard, and I hate to admit that. It hurts to admit you are having trouble with a direction from Christ that sounds so Christian-like. So basic. I always try to start these soul searching, walk the path improvements close to home. Family, then start practicing the "walk your talk" with your closest friends, then spread out to notice the people around you as you do your daily errands, work your job, commute. Then take it to the people outside your "beltway".
I am about politic-ed out. Two more nights of the second convention, plus all the hype and too many talking-head discussions. This is where loving your neighbor really gets hard. When will we learn we have one nation to love and take care of, protect and serve? Not divide and win, pull down and stomp on. How do I love (either side) people that look for the most damaging information they can find, just to use it to take someone else down. Where is forgiveness, patience, just plain old civility?
I know it starts with me. I need to overlook, forgive, realize these are egos vastly out of whack. Crippled egos that are not looking for guidance from the Holy Spirit. I need to look at these people as children of God, God's creations that God loves. Try to love them with Christlike love. I am really trying, but this is difficult. Only prayer and constant reminder of God's love for all will keep me trying to see past the horrible things that are being done in the cause of winning an election.
Friday, August 29, 2008
Prayer Friday
There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you-who are you to judge your neighbor? James 4:12
Loving Creator, Living Christ, Guiding Holy Spirit...
Thank you for the air I breathe and the ability to breathe it. I thank you, for I am alive and well because you desire me to be here and love. Thank you for all your children you put in my life this week. For the chance to look for the Living Christ in their eyes.
Lord forgive me for the times I relied on my quick judgement to make decisions and take action this week.
Lord I ask for help in the time to come. Please help me to see my neighbors in your light, not in my judgemental sight. Only you know the deepest secrets of their hearts, I do not.
Loving Creator, Living Christ, Guiding Holy Spirit...
Thank you for the air I breathe and the ability to breathe it. I thank you, for I am alive and well because you desire me to be here and love. Thank you for all your children you put in my life this week. For the chance to look for the Living Christ in their eyes.
Lord forgive me for the times I relied on my quick judgement to make decisions and take action this week.
Lord I ask for help in the time to come. Please help me to see my neighbors in your light, not in my judgemental sight. Only you know the deepest secrets of their hearts, I do not.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Consistent Golf
And we,...are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. 2Corinthians 3:18
Golf again today with my Thursday buddies. We had a jolly time of it. My name is consistency, had the same score as Tuesday. Not the same configuration of nine hole scores, but they still added up to the same total. I think I am a pretty consistent person, never too far off the path from yesterday. My devotional practices are pretty predictable, same pattern as yesterday, do it again tomorrow.
Yet in my life I can see where this consistency is leading to a transformation. I am not the same person I was when I started my faith walk. It seems the Holy Spirit takes you where you are and leads you deeper and deeper along the path. So where my golf stays the same, my life gets closer and closer to my Creator. Consistency in my prayer and devotional life lead to big changes.
Maybe I should be a little more consistent with my use of the practice range at the golf course.
Golf again today with my Thursday buddies. We had a jolly time of it. My name is consistency, had the same score as Tuesday. Not the same configuration of nine hole scores, but they still added up to the same total. I think I am a pretty consistent person, never too far off the path from yesterday. My devotional practices are pretty predictable, same pattern as yesterday, do it again tomorrow.
Yet in my life I can see where this consistency is leading to a transformation. I am not the same person I was when I started my faith walk. It seems the Holy Spirit takes you where you are and leads you deeper and deeper along the path. So where my golf stays the same, my life gets closer and closer to my Creator. Consistency in my prayer and devotional life lead to big changes.
Maybe I should be a little more consistent with my use of the practice range at the golf course.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Self Righteous Forgiveness
...forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:32
In golf, after you hit a crummy shot that lands 42 yards to the left of your target in the bushes covered with prickly things, you are supposed to shake it off and forget it. Don't let it bother you or it will affect your next shot. I noticed in many of the Olympic events the commentators saying "so-in-so" gymnast/swimmer/runner should forget some error in their performance and get on with it. Forgive your self for the mistake and go on. Forgive and forget.
I have been spending a lot of time in my prayer chair lately doing the forgive and forget thing. I heard a sermon not long ago on the Lord's Prayer and the part on forgiveness. "Forgive as..." I think all Pastors preach on that now and again. So I have been forgiving right and left. Little slights, big earth shattering hurts, heartbreaking hurts, bringing up memories and making lists. Forgiving everybody for everything. Boy, did I feel good.
This morning something I read triggered my spirit to show me how self righteous I had become about my forgiving. I seemed to have left out a huge part of this process. Whom did I need to ask to forgive me. I have been so wrapped up in my forgiving and forgetting, I forgot to make a list of those I have hurt, slighted, ignored or just plain been mean to. Bet I can tell you right now which list will be longer !!
Now, I am not belittling the time I spent in my chair praying for the Holy Spirit to help me forgive and forget with Christ's love in my heart. No siree. I really know with the help of the Spirit I have come a long way in putting the past behind me. But I have been so one side these last few days.
Back to the chair to look into my heart for those situations I need to lay bare and put before the Throne. Thank you Creator, that you forgive and forget, help me be honest in my plea for forgiveness and bless those that forgive me.
In golf, after you hit a crummy shot that lands 42 yards to the left of your target in the bushes covered with prickly things, you are supposed to shake it off and forget it. Don't let it bother you or it will affect your next shot. I noticed in many of the Olympic events the commentators saying "so-in-so" gymnast/swimmer/runner should forget some error in their performance and get on with it. Forgive your self for the mistake and go on. Forgive and forget.
I have been spending a lot of time in my prayer chair lately doing the forgive and forget thing. I heard a sermon not long ago on the Lord's Prayer and the part on forgiveness. "Forgive as..." I think all Pastors preach on that now and again. So I have been forgiving right and left. Little slights, big earth shattering hurts, heartbreaking hurts, bringing up memories and making lists. Forgiving everybody for everything. Boy, did I feel good.
This morning something I read triggered my spirit to show me how self righteous I had become about my forgiving. I seemed to have left out a huge part of this process. Whom did I need to ask to forgive me. I have been so wrapped up in my forgiving and forgetting, I forgot to make a list of those I have hurt, slighted, ignored or just plain been mean to. Bet I can tell you right now which list will be longer !!
Now, I am not belittling the time I spent in my chair praying for the Holy Spirit to help me forgive and forget with Christ's love in my heart. No siree. I really know with the help of the Spirit I have come a long way in putting the past behind me. But I have been so one side these last few days.
Back to the chair to look into my heart for those situations I need to lay bare and put before the Throne. Thank you Creator, that you forgive and forget, help me be honest in my plea for forgiveness and bless those that forgive me.
Friday, August 15, 2008
Prayer Friday
Hannah was praying in her heart, and her lips were moving but her voice was not heard. 1Samuel 1:13
Loving Creator, Living Christ
Teach me to pray in my heart at all times. Teach me to pray continually not just at moments when I think I need something.
You give me every breath I take, may I give it back to you in prayer.
Today may I please see you in all my brothers and sisters. May I love with your love and forgive with your forgiveness.
Thank you for the Holy Spirit you have sent to guide me. May I be open and listen and watch. May I know and follow your will for my life today.
Through Jesus, AMEN
Loving Creator, Living Christ
Teach me to pray in my heart at all times. Teach me to pray continually not just at moments when I think I need something.
You give me every breath I take, may I give it back to you in prayer.
Today may I please see you in all my brothers and sisters. May I love with your love and forgive with your forgiveness.
Thank you for the Holy Spirit you have sent to guide me. May I be open and listen and watch. May I know and follow your will for my life today.
Through Jesus, AMEN
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Martha and Mary
"Martha, Martha" the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things, but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen the better part, and it will not be taken away from her."
I still cannot play golf!! My back is slowly getting back in shape, but it is going to be at least next week before I will be able to try to swing a club. On the good side, no big housework tasks can be taken on either, just small ones. This forced down time has got me really missing my golf buddies. Two of my golfing sisters are going though some rough times right now. One with her daughter's health and one over her aging father. I wish I could be right in the middle of it helping them in some practical way. I know the two of them are wishing they could do something to "fix" their loved ones. We are all three good Marthas. We do good work, we are helpers, fixers, doers.
I did too much on my trip and did too much when I tried to move something 30 minutes after driving 950 miles in 13 1/2 hours. Now I have time to do nothing. Not really. Now is my Mary time. I have spent a week and two days reading, meditating, praying, getting my thoughts and priorities straighten out. I see so much ego-will in the last two months, not enough of God's will. I see too many of my fixes, not enough of God's.
My back pain will go away, it will heal. I will be physically healthy soon. But, more importantly, I have something better, something that cannot be taken away. I am deeper into my walk. I am slowed and mindful of the moments. I can "do" something very special for my two golf buddies. I can hold them in God's love through prayer. I can hold them in my heart and let the Holy Spirit take it where it where it is supposed to go.
I still cannot play golf!! My back is slowly getting back in shape, but it is going to be at least next week before I will be able to try to swing a club. On the good side, no big housework tasks can be taken on either, just small ones. This forced down time has got me really missing my golf buddies. Two of my golfing sisters are going though some rough times right now. One with her daughter's health and one over her aging father. I wish I could be right in the middle of it helping them in some practical way. I know the two of them are wishing they could do something to "fix" their loved ones. We are all three good Marthas. We do good work, we are helpers, fixers, doers.
I did too much on my trip and did too much when I tried to move something 30 minutes after driving 950 miles in 13 1/2 hours. Now I have time to do nothing. Not really. Now is my Mary time. I have spent a week and two days reading, meditating, praying, getting my thoughts and priorities straighten out. I see so much ego-will in the last two months, not enough of God's will. I see too many of my fixes, not enough of God's.
My back pain will go away, it will heal. I will be physically healthy soon. But, more importantly, I have something better, something that cannot be taken away. I am deeper into my walk. I am slowed and mindful of the moments. I can "do" something very special for my two golf buddies. I can hold them in God's love through prayer. I can hold them in my heart and let the Holy Spirit take it where it where it is supposed to go.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Prayer Friday
he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Matthew 14:23
Living Christ
Way to salvation
Thank you for sending the Holy Spirit
Please guide me into a closer fellowship and walk with you today
I pray I remain aware of walking every step in your shadow
That I remember that I live in God's very breath
I want to recognize and do your will for me not mine
Please guide me so that my light will shine for you today
Living Christ
Way to salvation
Thank you for sending the Holy Spirit
Please guide me into a closer fellowship and walk with you today
I pray I remain aware of walking every step in your shadow
That I remember that I live in God's very breath
I want to recognize and do your will for me not mine
Please guide me so that my light will shine for you today
Friday, June 13, 2008
Prayer Friday
I thank my God every time I remember you. Philippians 1:3
Most Gracious and Loving Creator, thank you for the bounty of your love, for the blessings you have showered on us this week and for the blessings that are already waiting for today and the week to come. We are in awe that all our needs are taken care of already, we want not when we are in your care.
Please help us learn to live in your kingdom, in eternity, in Your All. We forget so easily and try to live in the past or the future, not in the present. Help us shed our egos and listen to your will for us.
Please help us listen, also, for the cry of our bothers and sisters who are hurt, scared, worried and lost so we can be your light to shine on them. We are your creation, yet we separate ourselves from each other. Help us see each other as yours. Guide us back to you and teach us to truly love one another.
As one we ask these things in the spirit, through Christ our Lord, AMEN
Most Gracious and Loving Creator, thank you for the bounty of your love, for the blessings you have showered on us this week and for the blessings that are already waiting for today and the week to come. We are in awe that all our needs are taken care of already, we want not when we are in your care.
Please help us learn to live in your kingdom, in eternity, in Your All. We forget so easily and try to live in the past or the future, not in the present. Help us shed our egos and listen to your will for us.
Please help us listen, also, for the cry of our bothers and sisters who are hurt, scared, worried and lost so we can be your light to shine on them. We are your creation, yet we separate ourselves from each other. Help us see each other as yours. Guide us back to you and teach us to truly love one another.
As one we ask these things in the spirit, through Christ our Lord, AMEN
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Treasures Here or There
Do not store up for yourself treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. Matthew 6:19
There was a fire today. A house on the golf course went up as we played past. I mean on one hole workman were on the roof, on the next hole it was burning, by the next it was obvious it was not to be saved. So sad to think that this family lost their home so quickly. I cannot get over how fast it was.
No other reminder is so clear as a house fire. Our treasures here in this world can go in a heart beat. Treasure love and family and friends. Treasure your walk with the Lord. Treasure the gift of the Holy Spirit. My heart goes out to these people, I pray that their real treasure was already planted in the kingdom of heaven not the kingdom of earth.
There was a fire today. A house on the golf course went up as we played past. I mean on one hole workman were on the roof, on the next hole it was burning, by the next it was obvious it was not to be saved. So sad to think that this family lost their home so quickly. I cannot get over how fast it was.
No other reminder is so clear as a house fire. Our treasures here in this world can go in a heart beat. Treasure love and family and friends. Treasure your walk with the Lord. Treasure the gift of the Holy Spirit. My heart goes out to these people, I pray that their real treasure was already planted in the kingdom of heaven not the kingdom of earth.
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Seek The Kingdom
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33
OK, so how do you seek the kingdom at the golf course? How do you see the kingdom at the golf course? Can you find the kingdom at the golf course? Is the kingdom at the golf course?
You drive through the gate, use the big parking lot of asphalt to park the car. Pass through the entrance hall, go down the steps next to the dining room, then around the corner into the locker room, get your golf shoes on and then proceed to the pro shop. Now, get the cart with your clubs, go to the hill where the practice range is, loosen up by hitting some shots with your seven iron. Back in the cart, ride to the first tee, play your round of golf. Finish round, back to the pro shop to record your score, locker room, shoes off, dining room, lunch, parking lot, car, home.
So where is this kingdom in all of this? How do I see it, find it?
You could substitute grocery store, school, office, church, movies, restaurant, anything you want for golf course. So how do you see it? I can only tell you how I have started trying. The key to me is in the next chapter of Matthew, 7:3-4. I have to get the plank out of my eye so I can see. My plank is my ego. The kingdom is where God rules, not my self will or big ego. God's rule is love. I need to start seeing all the places I go, situations I am in, people I am around, through eyes that are clear. Eyes that see with love. All acts I perform need to be done in loving kindness. The more I see with eyes of love, the more I do with loving kindness, the closer I get to perceiving the world around me as the Kingdom of God. God's rule without the interference of me, me, me and my will.
It is slow work, but with the help of the Holy Spirit who is always there, it can be done. It will be done.
OK, so how do you seek the kingdom at the golf course? How do you see the kingdom at the golf course? Can you find the kingdom at the golf course? Is the kingdom at the golf course?
You drive through the gate, use the big parking lot of asphalt to park the car. Pass through the entrance hall, go down the steps next to the dining room, then around the corner into the locker room, get your golf shoes on and then proceed to the pro shop. Now, get the cart with your clubs, go to the hill where the practice range is, loosen up by hitting some shots with your seven iron. Back in the cart, ride to the first tee, play your round of golf. Finish round, back to the pro shop to record your score, locker room, shoes off, dining room, lunch, parking lot, car, home.
So where is this kingdom in all of this? How do I see it, find it?
You could substitute grocery store, school, office, church, movies, restaurant, anything you want for golf course. So how do you see it? I can only tell you how I have started trying. The key to me is in the next chapter of Matthew, 7:3-4. I have to get the plank out of my eye so I can see. My plank is my ego. The kingdom is where God rules, not my self will or big ego. God's rule is love. I need to start seeing all the places I go, situations I am in, people I am around, through eyes that are clear. Eyes that see with love. All acts I perform need to be done in loving kindness. The more I see with eyes of love, the more I do with loving kindness, the closer I get to perceiving the world around me as the Kingdom of God. God's rule without the interference of me, me, me and my will.
It is slow work, but with the help of the Holy Spirit who is always there, it can be done. It will be done.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Prayer Friday
Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. 2Peter 1:2
Gracious and loving Creator, we thank you for all of the blessings and graces you have poured out on us this week. We know that every breath we take we take because you give it to us. You are our ground and our air. Thank you for forgiving us when we stray away from that knowledge. Help us stay in the awareness of you all the time, we seem to have a problem doing that.
Lord, don't let us be a stumbling block to those you put in our path. Let us recognize them as a gift from you. Remind us that we are all the same, made of the same, body, mind and spirit.
Let us be generous with the gifts you have given us. Let our every thought be one of love and kindness.
Help us forgive as we are forgiven.
We are yours and you are ours, we are blessed in that.
Holy Spirit please take our prayers through Christ, Amen
Please feel free to add your prayers in the comments. If you have requests, I will be happy to add your prayers to mine and take them to my prayer group.
Gracious and loving Creator, we thank you for all of the blessings and graces you have poured out on us this week. We know that every breath we take we take because you give it to us. You are our ground and our air. Thank you for forgiving us when we stray away from that knowledge. Help us stay in the awareness of you all the time, we seem to have a problem doing that.
Lord, don't let us be a stumbling block to those you put in our path. Let us recognize them as a gift from you. Remind us that we are all the same, made of the same, body, mind and spirit.
Let us be generous with the gifts you have given us. Let our every thought be one of love and kindness.
Help us forgive as we are forgiven.
We are yours and you are ours, we are blessed in that.
Holy Spirit please take our prayers through Christ, Amen
Please feel free to add your prayers in the comments. If you have requests, I will be happy to add your prayers to mine and take them to my prayer group.
Monday, June 2, 2008
The Way Is Love
Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, "This is the way; walk in it." Isaiah 30:21
This is to be a busy week. Today I help a dear one set up for a member/guest golf tournament. Tomorrow is the tournament. I think this weekend we are having a visit from an old friend. I say "think" because he is on the road and said he might swing by our town. So, as I was sitting here doing my devotion and prayer I was a little preoccupied with the week's work. My devotion was primarily concerned with walking closer to Jesus, in the hands of the Holy Spirit. How do I let go of tension and worry and busy stuff... put the devotion to work?
As I put the dishes in the dish washer, pondering this question it became clear...I do it Jesus's way, and we know Jesus's Way is love. I realized I need to help make this tournament an opportunity for these lady golfers to have fun, fellowship, laughter. So every task I undertake needs to be done in love to shine love on the situation. Change the word task to gift.
I need to prepare the house and guest room for our friend so it will be filled with a feeling of welcome and love. So all tasks must be done in love and gratitude that we are available for our friend, who needs some unconditional love right now.
Let's walk this week, our hand in the hand of the Holy Spirit. Each task done in Jesus's love for the objective of shining love on the whole situation. Bet we will have a better week than last!
This is to be a busy week. Today I help a dear one set up for a member/guest golf tournament. Tomorrow is the tournament. I think this weekend we are having a visit from an old friend. I say "think" because he is on the road and said he might swing by our town. So, as I was sitting here doing my devotion and prayer I was a little preoccupied with the week's work. My devotion was primarily concerned with walking closer to Jesus, in the hands of the Holy Spirit. How do I let go of tension and worry and busy stuff... put the devotion to work?
As I put the dishes in the dish washer, pondering this question it became clear...I do it Jesus's way, and we know Jesus's Way is love. I realized I need to help make this tournament an opportunity for these lady golfers to have fun, fellowship, laughter. So every task I undertake needs to be done in love to shine love on the situation. Change the word task to gift.
I need to prepare the house and guest room for our friend so it will be filled with a feeling of welcome and love. So all tasks must be done in love and gratitude that we are available for our friend, who needs some unconditional love right now.
Let's walk this week, our hand in the hand of the Holy Spirit. Each task done in Jesus's love for the objective of shining love on the whole situation. Bet we will have a better week than last!
Friday, May 30, 2008
Prayer Friday
I call on you, O God, for you will answer me; give ear to me and hear my prayer. Pslam 17:6
Today the smell of onions from the field down below is surrounding me as I write. I cannot see the onions fields from where I sit, but I know they are there by the essence of their odor.
My spouse left this morning for a short business trip, yet his "feel" is still here in the room with me. His essence is left behind to remind me of him.
When you pray know that the essence of that prayer is around you all day. Its "feel", its spirit and power is carried by the Holy Spirit through the heart of our Lord.
Mighty and Wondrous Creator, we are so blessed to be in your creation today. We praise and thank you for all you have given us, all you have taken away and all you have left with us. Please open our eyes, ears and hearts today so we can be aware of you at all times of the day. We want to live in your will. Thank you for the gift of your Holy Spirit, who will not leave us. Please guide us to recognise those people you have put in our path today that need your love and help. We pray all of this in the name of our Christ, AMEN.
Today the smell of onions from the field down below is surrounding me as I write. I cannot see the onions fields from where I sit, but I know they are there by the essence of their odor.
My spouse left this morning for a short business trip, yet his "feel" is still here in the room with me. His essence is left behind to remind me of him.
When you pray know that the essence of that prayer is around you all day. Its "feel", its spirit and power is carried by the Holy Spirit through the heart of our Lord.
Mighty and Wondrous Creator, we are so blessed to be in your creation today. We praise and thank you for all you have given us, all you have taken away and all you have left with us. Please open our eyes, ears and hearts today so we can be aware of you at all times of the day. We want to live in your will. Thank you for the gift of your Holy Spirit, who will not leave us. Please guide us to recognise those people you have put in our path today that need your love and help. We pray all of this in the name of our Christ, AMEN.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Water In The Desert
They will neither harm nor destroy on all my holy mountain, for the earth will be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. Isaiah 11:9.
Upon waking some mornings we find that the farm down in the valley has been irrigated. Today I tried to capture it for you. It is such a beautiful site, my pictures could never do it justice. The water comes from the Rio Grande river that flows about a mile from our house. The dry desert soaks up the water and the green plants thrive, later to be harvested. You can almost feel the land take in the moisture as it covers acre after acre.
This passage from Isaiah is the one about the branch from Jesse. The Spirit of the Lord rests on this branch. One day the knowledge of the Lord will cover the whole earth. If you need peace today, get your Bible and read Isaiah 11. I love to look at this view off our little hill and feel God's love and care soaking into me just as the desert soaks up the irrigation water. I pray I am as open to the "knowledge", to the closeness of my Creator, as the land here is to the water.
Someday the whole earth will know God. You don't have to wait until "someday", soak God up now, today.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
