The Power of Patience before God!

Most of us know what it is to send a text or an email and wait for a reply. That patient waiting is easy when the answer you seek is not a big deal. However, when you are suffering and in hardship, waiting can be painful.  In that case, we cannot say ‘forget the waiting’ because we have no choice but to wait.  It is somewhat of a place of confinement but it is not hopeless.

“I waited patiently for the Lord and He turned to me and heard my cry” Psalm 40:1

It is not that we are waiting for people or for our circumstances to change.  We wait for God.  That’s where hope lies.  Circumstances and people can often disappoint.  Neither can we change them; that kind of waiting is pointless.  To wait for God though is to have our eyes fixed on One who is full of mercy and has all power to lift us from our sorrows. 

Patience is critical to all of life.  It reminds us that we are not in control and are truly dependent on God.  We must put it on daily. It is a choice. It is a quality that the Holy Spirit produces in us.

Failing to wait patiently only increases our anxiety and stress.  It seldom yields a good outcome.  In retrospect, we often come to the conclusion that waiting patiently would have produced a much better result. 

In this case, in the waiting we gain an awareness or consciousness of God.  The sense of His presence does not necessarily come automatically.  It comes to the one who has taken the time to intentionally wait for God.  That means that we begin to wait on God even when we don’t feel Him in the slightest.  As we wait, there are some insights that come slowly to us; they distil down and settle firmly upon our soul.

The first is that God Himself turns toward us.  He notices us.  He looks at us.  His eyes become fixed on us.  The psalmist says that.  There’s nothing aloof on the part of God toward the one who waits for Him.  He actually bends over us and fixes His gaze upon us. 

The second is that He listens to us.  He hears our cry.  He takes it all in; the words, the pain, all the emotion.  He is suddenly attentive to it all – for the one who waits for Him. 

I find that giving thanks to God helps me to wait patiently for Him. Thanksgiving builds faith and it eases the waiting.  Maybe thanksgiving is a bit like an appetizer before a great meal.

What are you patiently waiting for today? Shift your focus to wait on God and present yourself before Him; before the One who sees all, knows all, and loves you perfectly.

Dear Father,

I pray that You would soothe the soul of all who are waiting patiently for You. Help us take our eyes off of people and circumstances and simply wait for you.  Turn to us Lord and hear our cry.  We are waiting for You!

In Jesus Name,

Amen

When Intimidation Crowds In

Years ago, I had to speak at a large event. I was the new person in the ministry and was asked to talk about what the year would hold. The woman who introduced me however, spent a full 10 minutes going on and on about how extraordinary my predecessor was. It was intimidating to say the least. After all that, she said, “here is Donna Dyck who has taken her place”... and that was it. I prayed a simple prayer: “Father, unless You go with me, I do not want to continue”. Somehow a small vestige of peace crept into my heart. The Lord met me on stage and things went really well and I was deeply thankful. 

I think of Joshua as he stood on the cusp of entering into the promised land. He followed in the footsteps of Moses; I wonder if he was feeling at all the way I felt. How often do we struggle with confidence to do exactly what Jesus is asking us to do? Sometimes He does ask us to do some brave things! Sometimes it is something no one has done before. We struggle with feeling intimidated! Yet we take the risk. 

When we were thinking and praying over saying yes 30-some-odd years ago to come and pastor in downtown Toronto, it felt very risky, if not downright crazy. The pay was extremely low, we had 4 kids, the church was not well established. We couldn’t afford to live in downtown Toronto, yet we were confident God was calling us and would somehow make a way, and He did. He went before us and that made all the difference! 

I love Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will go with you wherever you go.” 

As you consider the year ahead of you, perhaps there are some mountains you will need to climb or new pathways that must be taken. Know that The Lord your God is with you! He says to you and I the same thing He said to Joshua: “Be strong and courageous”. Our confidence is not in ourselves, rather it is in the One who goes before us and will meet us, but it requires some steps of faith on our part. I wish that in this journey we find ourselves, there were more snap your fingers together and voila.... everything’s perfect now. Life is seldom like that unfortunately. The great news is that we are not alone and God promises to meet us as we look to Him. He makes the way! He teaches us many important lessons on the way! 

Dear Father, 

Thank You for being with me as I think of the year ahead and the known and unknown challenges that are ahead of me. I do ask for strength and courage as I think of what is coming my way. I know You will meet me there! 

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen

A Warm Sweater for the Soul

I love wearing a warm sweater on a cold winter day.  As the wind and snow are whistling outside, I am warm and protected from all that cold.

I woke up this morning after a tough night of sleep troubled in my heart over things that are out of my control. I read Psalm 23 and was deeply comforted. It is like a warm sweater for the soul.  

Psalm 23 :1-4

“The LORD is my shepherd,

I shall not want.

He makes me lie down in green pastures.

He leads me beside quiet waters.

He restores my soul.

He guides me in the paths of righteousness

for the sake of His name.

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

I will fear no evil,

for You are with me.

Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me”

There are all kinds of shepherds in this world, and not all of them are great at what they do. Yet, to have a Shepherd who is all-wise, all-powerful, who sees up the hill and around the corner, a Shepherd who has only my best interest at heart, that is something. The Lord, who is our Shepherd, is fully trustworthy and faithful.

When I think of having to travel down a road I don’t want to go on and yet must, as I read this Psalm, it brings peace because of the One who walks with me. There are many things to fear or be deeply frustrated over, but to know the One who is with us -  if we could hear Him say anything today, it would be this.

“Do not fear my child, I am with you.”

I think of the courage that comes to a fearful child’s heart when they walk holding the hand of their dad. Courage is renewed in that child because of the one who is with them.  Hope is too.  That is just how God strengthens us. He calms our fears such that peace can finally seep into the soul. We are refreshed, renewed and ready for whatever is ahead.

Dear Father,

Thank for You for being my Shepherd. You lead me through the storms. You do not back down or give up because it is too hard. Thank You for the strength You give. You are my faithful comforter and I rest in You.

In Jesus Name,

Amen.

Wholehearted Seeking

I remember countless times over the years, asking one of my kids to find something in the fridge. It was hard to believe how often they would yell to me, “Mom, I can’t find it.” Honestly, it was right in front of them! I asked them if they were looking with their eyes closed! 

I was thinking about this verse today, “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.” Jer. 29:13. I wonder how often I seek God like my kids would look for ketchup in the fridge?  

At this point in the book of Jeremiah, God’s people had been in captivity for 70 years. They were discouraged and bankrupt of hope, yet the call to wholehearted seeking of God remained. We have all found ourselves in that dark space, yet if we seek God, He promises we will find Him and that makes all the difference!

It is easy to be very distracted or in a big rush as we come seeking His presence. Sometimes we give up too quickly.  I remember that if the kids expected the needed item to be in a certain place in the fridge and it wasn’t there, they would give up. 

How often do we do these very things while seeking God? If He doesn’t speak quickly, or in the way that we thought He would or should, do we give up too? I know that has often been my story. I also have allowed anxiety to overtake me as I repeat my request over and over and fail to truly leave it with Him. My anxious ears were so overcome with the bigness or seriousness of the problem that I would lose sight of how Big and Mighty God is.  

Then there is the “to do list” that is waiting. Seeking the Lord with all of our heart takes time and the truth is, there are many things on our lists that are far easier to do than seeking the Lord. 

Wholehearted seeking takes place when we come to the end of our solutions and our preconceived ideas of what God needs to speak to us about. We put aside everything and seek Him only. For me, I know when I have found Him, as the peace that surpasses understanding comes and rests on me.  And with that peace, I find my soul is at rest. 

The good news is that God wants to be found by each of us. He asks that we seek Him wholeheartedly. I pray that we would each find Him as we seek Him this next year! We need His resting peace, that is for certain! 

Dear Father,

As I look to the year ahead, I pray that You would find me seeking You wholeheartedly. Please, teach me daily how to do this! I have so much I would like to get done in a day, but Father, in the middle of all of this, I want to be found seeking You and finding You, not just in the morning, but all through my day! Lead me Father and teach me. 

In Jesus Name,              

Amen

One Bright Light that Never Stops Shining in Dark Places!

Isaiah 9:2 “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in deep darkness a light has dawned.”

 I love stories about people who have lived their lives in darkness and despair and met the light of Christ and their lives were changed. On Sunday my husband told a story just like this.

There is a retired missionary who has come and served with us on a Saturday night for years. My husband asked him, “Why do you and your wife keep coming downtown to serve the streets with us?”. The answer the gentlemen gave Bill, shocked him. He said “my grandfather was a homeless alcoholic who lived on these very streets. He came to know Jesus in a place, just like this. “The light of Jesus shines brightly in dark places.

My own father and my brother both struggled terribly with addictions. My dad lived in a rooming house for a while. When I serve the dear people from the streets, I often think of them. It warms my heart to do so. While I don’t have that remarkable story to tell of my dad or my brother, they did have opportunity to meet Jesus through different avenues. I am thankful for each one of those times. How the light of my Savior shone into their lives.

The Light of Christ which shines in the darkness is a precious light indeed. The power of that light- Jesus the light of the world, who brings with Him not only hope but life and light. As we celebrate the birth of the Light of the world this Christmas season, let us remember those who do not know Jesus and His redeeming love.

There is no shortage of people who live in all kinds of darkness. May the light of Christ shine on them. No one is beyond His reach His help. As long as God is on the throne, there are NO hopeless cases!

Dear Father,

You are the Good Shepherd and the Light of the World. I praise You for the light that shines year after year, generation after generation. You are always All Powerful and More than able Your arm is NOT too short that it cannot save. Today I lay _____ before your throne. Shine Your beautiful light into the darkness that surrounds them and call them Father. Call them in such a way that they can hear! Thank You Father for your mercy!!

In Jesus Name

Amen

Responding to Button Pressing Moments.

 Our piano has gotten lots of use over the years. One of our boys used one key in particular and would hit it repeatedly to be annoying. He was usually quite successful. That very key on the piano has had to be repaired as it is the one that has been pressed so many times!

In life we all have buttons that no one can see but can be pressed often, and can become more sensitive over time.

As we prepare for the season ahead, for gatherings with family and friends, we can have  great times but there can also be opportunities for all kinds of buttons to be pressed, some more aggressively than others. The one truth that never changes is this: we get to choose how we will respond.

I was thinking about the emotions or reactions that seem to arise so easily during all this button pressing drama, and i thought of:

1. Fear and worry

2. Despair

3. Anger

4. Frustration

5. Denial/defensiveness

6. Jumping to conclusions

7. Feelings of rejection or hurt

8. Hardened hearts, or maybe the addition of  another brick to the wall you’ve been building for years

I was reading today in Isaiah 41. In verse 10 it says this: “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”

When a button gets pressed yet again, I think it is good to acknowledge what you are feeling and then quietly take a moment to put your eyes on God who you know loves you and has you firmly in His great big hand. We do not need to fear. We can put our trust in Him. We are not going to change people as much as we would like to. What we can do is choose how we respond. Be quick to acknowledge what you feel, and then leave the remark or action with God and forgive them. I would certainly ask for wisdom to know what the next step is. Sometimes we get to speak up and respond, but to do so before thinking it through (at least in my experience) seldom ends well.

It takes so much grace and wisdom to navigate the relationships we have in life, especially those most dear to us. May God give to us exactly what we need!

Dear Father,

I thank You for every opportunity I have to be with people this season. I pray that I would be quick to hear and slow to speak and slow to become angry, just as Your word teaches me. May I be a blessing to everyone. Guard my heart and my mind.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Hospitality Is Still Worth All That Time and Effort!

 It seems to me that Covid did change some things. Perhaps some things for the better but certainly not all things.

Before Covid, I think we were often better at opening our homes up and having people over for a meal or dessert. Now, where are we? My husband and I do have people over but not like we used to. I think we got out of practice.

 Hospitality can be intimidating - that is for sure. I remember many years ago, my husband’s whole family came to our house for a meal. I was so scared I would wreck the food. I was very new to this whole cooking thing, and I had burnt plenty of casseroles and cookies. I discovered, however, you can grate a burnt cookie and give it a gentle shake, and it will take care of 90% of that burnt flavour! I also learned the hard way that if you serve garden grown broccoli without first soaking it in a special water, you may be serving your guests tiny little worms in your salad. 

I remember when we moved into our home many years ago, there was a knock at our door. We knew nobody! Bill had not even started at the church yet! There stood this woman who was lost. She told us that someone gave her our address and said we would help her. She was hungry so we made her some toast and tea as it was the best we could do in that moment. We visited with her and then did our best to help her find her way.

I was reminded of that verse from Hebrews13:2 “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”

This season, as we think about Christ who came to open the way so we can know God, consider who you could invite over. It doesn’t have to be fancy to bless someone and let them know that they matter to you. Keep it simple and be brave!

People just love to come to your home. Many are lonely and what a great opportunity this season offers to love and care for them.

Dear Father,

Thank You for the people You have put in my path this past year. Who could I invite over and what could I do for them? How can I express Your love for them? Lead me Father.

In Jesus Name

Amen

The Kryptonite of Relationships

A few days ago as I was leaving my house to walk Penny (my dog), I heard loud voices down the street. As I came closer, I could see a young couple, my guess... grade 12. They were having quite the spat. It was hard to not hear it. They were both accusing the other of saying insulting words. My guess is that if these two were dating, it was likely the last date! I so much wanted to give them advice, but it just seemed too weird to interrupt the yelling! But if it had been appropriate, this is what I would love to have told them:

When we find ourselves in a disagreement, there are some statements which, when spoken, can become stumbling blocks in a relationship.  There are more than I have listed here, but these are some that came to mind:

1. “You never…”

2. “You always…”

3. Yeah, but you...”

4. “Oh, but I remember...”

When accusing, interrupting, ignoring, yelling, harsh words, or the silent treatment is used, you know you are in trouble. If you stay on this path, you won’t end up in a good place!

I love what the book of Proverbs says about the tongue. Here are a few words of wisdom that often stand out to me.

Proverbs 10:19 “Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongue.”

We are wise to recognize when our words are going nowhere, and that more words will not solve the problem.  At least not right now.

Proverbs 12:18 “The words of the reckless pierce like a sword, the tongue of the wise brings healing.“

Our words have the power to bring pain or healing; we need to be wise in what we say.

Proverbs 13:3 “Those who guard their lips preserve their lives, but those who speak rashly come to ruin.“

Every conversation goes better when we choose our words wisely–which words and how many are important!

Proverbs 15:1 “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

A gentle word is more effective than a harsh word, every time!

Proverbs 13:10 “Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.”

Humility in our relationships makes way for healing, understanding, and eventually peace, as forgiveness is made possible. When our hearts are brimming with pride, it is difficult to ask or offer forgiveness.

May God give us wisdom as we navigate relationships with the people He has put in our lives!

Dear Father,

Thank You for the wisdom found in Your Word. I pray that You would give me wisdom in my relationships today. May I love and listen to those around me, as I ought. May I be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to become angry, as Your word instructs.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

The One Kind of Kindness that is Above All

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; For His Loving kindness is everlasting”.

Psalm 118:1

Kindness comes in different forms; some are better than others. I remember one Christmas, years ago, my husband and I were invited to a Christmas Party; the reason I remember it is because, while tremendous kindness was extended to us in the invitation, it was painfully clear the lady of the house did not want to have any of us in her home. We had a few or her snacks, expressed our thanks for the invitation, and left within 30 minutes of arriving.

The kindness of God isn’t limited like that, it is perfect kindness, filled with His love which is rich with grace, forgiveness and mercy. I read somewhere that the loving kindness of God is the cream of kindness.

I was thinking about that this morning while I was pouring 18% cream into my coffee. I bought it for a recipe I was trying. I thought today instead of my 5% cream, why not be exotic. Wow, what a difference! The words smooth and rich come to mind!  The loving kindness is like that. It soothes our troubled hearts and calms our fears.

He extends His loving-kindness to each of us, even with our shortcomings and list of ways we keep failing. He loves us still.

If today, you find yourself struggling to find something to be thankful for, the loving kindness of God would be perfect!

Dear Father,

Thank You for your loving Kindness that You show me every day. I ask that on those days that I cannot see it, give me eyes to see. Thank You for never holding back on Your loving kindness, even when I mess things up. You are right there ready to forgive and extend Your loving kindness.

In Jesus Name,

Amen.

When Jesus Steps In

I love to hear stories of how Jesus shows up and reveals Himself to people, especially those who are not even thinking about Him!  I think of my many dear friends who have loved ones wandering far away from Jesus and everything they were taught as children. Seeking Jesus is not even remotely on their radar.

I was driving on the highway the other day, and a song came on the radio ( I confess I listen to Country Music). The song is called. “I Didn’t Find Jesus” by The Sound. It is a guy’s story of driving along the road when a song came on the radio and how God grabbed His attention and His heart in that moment. It changed him forever.

Two weeks ago, we had a baptism in our church. Out of the three testimonies we heard, two of them were stories about how God rescued the individual from a life of addiction. I love how Jesus is not afraid of the messy lives of people.

Most people find Jesus because they went searching for Him, which is beautiful. However, I want to celebrate today, that sometimes Jesus steps right into the mess of the lives of people who were not searching for Him, and He saves them.

Paul, who was called Saul, was a perfect example. At the beginning of his unexpected meeting with Jesus, he was not seeking Christ. Quite the opposite actually. Here are a few verses that describe his conversion.

“Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest 2and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked.

“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. 6“Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.” Acts 9:1-6

I love how Saul’s lack of interest in knowing Jesus did not discourage God whatsoever. He had big plans for Saul/Paul, and as we read through the book of Acts we can see  how Jesus redeemed and carried out these plans.

God does not change. The One who stepped into Paul’s life and revealed Himself still does this today. Be encouraged! God still intervenes in the lives of wandering, distracted, lost sheep.

 Dear Father,

Thank You that at this moment You see my loved one. You know exactly where they are and what they are doing. Thank You that You came to redeem people whose lives are messy.  I lay my loved one at Your feet today. Intervene in their life as You did for Paul. Thank You for your constant love for Your sheep wherever they are at this moment.
In Jesus Name,

Amen

“But God... we prayed!”

Early this morning, I looked out our window; there is snow everywhere in our city right now. As I sat there, God gently whispered to me that He is right there with me

Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore, I will wait for him.”

Lamentations 3:21-22

 My husband Bill, and I have had a hard week. We have been praying and believing God for a church building, and there was one for sale close by. We were thrilled. Our church prayed, put in an offer, we even named it “Miracle on Bathurst St.”

We found out that it is conditionally sold to someone else over the weekend. We were deeply saddened and confused. We know that God is big enough. We have no idea why He would prefer we stay renting where we are. Let me tell you, there is no shortage of questions.

I know all the Bible verses that might be running through your mind right now. They ran through mine as well, but in all honesty, I felt let down.

Sitting this morning, with the gentle voice of the Father, reminding me He is with me. It was not like the room started to glow or anything like that, but the simple recognition of His gentle tender mercies changes things.

His loving kindness and His peace filled me. Hope and faith were restored.

On this side of heaven, we might never know why God said no, which leaves us in a position where we must simply rest in the wise and sovereign God we serve.

Perhaps you have been in a similar position: you trusted God, quoted the Bible verses, even had words of confirmation from God’s people, but it did not work out. You are left wondering why God?

God’s compassion, His mercy that waits for us morning by morning, can bring peace and the Lord can soothe your troubled perplexed heart.

Even when things do not work out as we trusted God for, He remains unchanging. He is still faithful in all His ways. I think I played “Great is Thy Faithfulness” 10 times this weekend just to remind myself that God has not changed.

Dear Father,

Thank you that You love us, and You are faithful all the time. You see us and see the bewilderment that is filling our hearts. Would You give us  peace today in the quandaries I am facing. Thank you,

In Jesus Name,

Amen

When It Seems, there is NO Winning

For days I endured a headache after watching the Blue Jays as they battled for the World Championship. I confess, I got a bit stressed at times! Sadly, they did not win, but it was so much fun to watch. I was thinking about how life can feel a lot like the Jays may have felt after their loss. They came so close!

There have likely been times in all our lives where we are just over one sickness and then into another. Or we have had to endure a what seems utterly impossible and winning seems like a pipe dream.

I am slowly reading through the book of Matthew. In Matthew 27:27 -31 it reads like this:

“Then the governor’s soldiers took Jesus into the Praetorium and gathered the whole company of soldiers around him.  They stripped him and put a scarlet robe on him and then twisted together a crown of thorns and set it on his head. They put a staff in his right hand. Then they knelt in front of him and mocked him. “Hail, king of the Jews!” they said.  They spit on him and took the staff and struck him on the head again and again.  After they had mocked him, they took off the robe and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him away to crucify him.”

At first reading, the story does not look good for Jesus.  He seems defeated and if you and I were standing on the sidelines it looks like none of this is leading anywhere good. Except that it actually is. If you know the rest of the story this leads us to Christ’s death on the cross, and then 3 days later, the resurrection!!

All of this leads to our salvation, the keys of death now in the hands of our Lord. Satan is defeated and the curtain in the temple is torn in two.  Now we can know our Heavenly Father and experience forgiveness of sin! And so much more!

We have times in life where frankly, it feels like life is being lived out of the bottom of a valley or on a steep climb to the top of a mountain.

Jesus is familiar with our suffering and straining to get through. This day which Jesus endured helps us to understand that Christ does identify with us on impossible days. He has been there and endured which then led to a wonderful victory with benefits we enjoy every day!

We don’t know where some paths will lead, but we do know that we have Christ who has walked hard paths and endured humiliation and suffering.  Wherever you find yourself today, friend, you are not without hope. Christ promises in John 16:33, “I have told you these things, that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” That is where that dark day led Him to and the privilege that is ours today!

 Dear Father,

Thank You for being One who not only loves me but overcomes in all things. Thank You for the gift of the Cross and what it led to in my life and the difference Your suffering continues to make for me. Help me today. You see my struggles; I ask that You would show me the way forward!

In Jesus Name

Amen

Guaranteed…Not a Waste of Time

I think back to ministries I have either run or been a part of. Each one was dedicated to Jesus. Some of them, by man’s standard, were a roaring success. Others looked like a waste of time and there was no shortage of people who were very happy to point this out to us.

I think of missionaries who obeyed the call of God and went to hard places, sometimes with little visible fruit. Then there are the stories of those who died on the way. William Borden (1887–1913) was one. He was heading to China to work with a people group which he felt burdened for. He stopped in Egypt  for the purpose of learning the language of the people he would minister to. While there he caught Spinal Meningitis and died shortly after, never making it to the mission field. Some of his friends believed that William had thrown his life away to become a missionary. He had been born into great wealth and opportunities to grow his fortune were offered many times to him. He chose to follow God’s call for his life and died young. Was this a waste?

In Matthew 26:6-13, we meet a woman who anointed Jesus with expensive perfume. The commentaries agree that this was Mary, the sister of Lazarus. She was incredibly thankful for the life of her brother who Christ called from the dead after 3 days in the tomb. She had sat at the feet of Christ multiple times, learning about the kingdom of God. She wanted to give Jesus a gift which she was confident He was worthy of. She would not consider even for a moment that “only a dab will do”. NO. This gift would be extravagant because Jesus was and is worth it. According to Jesus, this was not a waste.  Some of the disciples felt differently.

Here is Jesus’ point of view on this story. “When the disciples saw this, they were indignant. ‘Why this waste’ they asked.  ‘This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor.’ Aware of this, Jesus said to them, ‘Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you.’” Matthew 26:8-10

Upon reflecting on this passage and the idea that what is given to Jesus is not a waste, here are a few thoughts I had.

1. Deep gratitude prompts an extravagant response.

2. There will always be voices of the dissenters and the discouragers; those who do not understand or appreciate what you have given to God.

3. Learn from Mary; do not listen to the naysayers. Rather, be generous to God as you give and as You live to serve Him.

God honors what is given to Him. He does not waste a gift even if, from where we stand, it looks like a failure. We don’t have the eyes of heaven, nor do we see the whole story start to finish. God sees what we do not. Nothing given to God is wasted.

Dear Father,

Thank You for taking what I have given to You. My life, the ministries and small acts of kindness done in Your Name. Thank You for receiving all of these gifts, big or small, given to You. Thank You that they are all precious in Your sight.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

The Ultimate Time Waster

While I was making breakfast this morning, I got to thinking about regrets I have had. This was quickly followed by wishing I had done things differently. The “if only” thoughts were racing through my mind.

For me, one of my biggest regrets is a decision I made when I was only 18 years old. I was coming home to celebrate Christmas. I had been away at college and was excited to see my family and friends. I had only 2 weeks at home. A friend from college invited me to her home far up north after Christmas and, sadly, I struggled with answering truthfully as I did not want to disappoint her and said “yes”. So, I spent only one week at home. I would see my dad only on Christmas day. I left for my friend’s a day or two after. I did not know that would be the last time I saw my father alive. He passed away when I was away at college a few months later. Regret and guilt over my decision plagued me for years.

There have been times in my life, I believed in the grace of our God as applied to everyone else, except myself. I was thinking this morning how deeply this attitude that I held onto for many years must have grieved God. As we read in Hebrews 4:15-16,

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who was tempted in every way that we are yet was without sin. 16Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need”

The arms of our Savior reach way back into our years lived and all the way to the present. We all have those sins of omission that gives birth to the regret and shame, which can haunt us. There are things in our lives which we may think are unforgiveable. As we struggle to accept the forgiveness of our Lord, we need to extend forgiveness to ourselves as well. Sometimes it is easier than others. When we hold onto unforgiveness towards ourselves or others, it is like choosing to haul around a heavy rock in our backpack or choosing to live life with a stone in our shoe.

 God’s throne room is open to you and He is offering grace, mercy and forgiveness. As you receive it and allow it to sink in, forgive yourself if that is what is needed. Let yourself off the hook. There is nothing profitable in failing to do so. It is truly the “ultimate time waster”. Jesus died for all our sins.

Dear Father,

Thank You for the gift of mercy, grace and forgiveness which is offered to me today. I can’t change the past, but I can receive Your forgiveness and mercy as I confess my failing to You today. Thank You for Your love which is constant and Your mercy which has no time stamp. Thank You.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

God’s Light and Mercy for a Dark Day

When sorrows and disappointments come, they have a way of stealing so much light from our eyes. We find ourselves bereft of hope or clarity on how we are to keep going forward. 

I was reading the story of the two blind men in Matthew 20:29-34. These two men call out to Jesus as He is passing by, asking Him for mercy. People were quick to rebuke these two, like their great need and desperation would be perceived as a pain or inconvenience to Jesus, but they were so wrong. Jesus, full of mercy, stops and inquires what they would like Him to do for them. It is a curious question, as it would seem obvious what the need is, yet Christ still asked them. They tell Him plainly: “we want to see”. 

There are times where we also need to have our sight restored. Our path has become darkened as I mentioned earlier by the sorrows and disappointments which can suck the life right out of us. We are in desperate need of the light that only He can give. Christ is the Light of the World. We are invited even today, to tell Him what we would like Him to do. I was struck also by this beautiful verse in Psalm 36:9 that says: “For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light” 

There is no beach we can go sit on that will restore hope to us or light the path we find ourselves on. The beach may be a reprieve, but it is not the source of our light or hope. That belongs to God alone. Anything else is only temporary. 

God is the God of mercy, and He loves us. He knows when we are weary and heavy hearted and invites us to tell Him today: what do we need? It is much easier to speak the truth to the one whom we know is full of love and understanding. He knows our limits and He hears us as we call to Him today. 

I am thankful for what we have in our Lord and Savior. We can’t buy mercy, it is a gift like grace, and it is offered freely by One who loves us. I pray for you today dear reader: may God’s mercy be new to You today; may His light fill your life with whatever it is you need. 

Dear Father,

Thank you for being the Author of light and a God full of mercy. I call out to You today, be this to me, restore hope and light in my life .  Thank You Father.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Giving Thanks to God is Easier Some Days Than Others

We have days where giving thanks is so easy. The sun is shining, your kids are all doing well, your grandkids (if you have them) are thriving, new babies are being born, loved ones are finding jobs and peace in the storms they face. There are sometimes so many victories to celebrate, and so we should. 

Then there are the dark days when thanksgiving feels a bit stuck in your throat. You can give fake thanks, but not the real kind that God is calling us to. What can we do?

I was talking this over with God today. I was listening to praise and worship music and a song came on that reminded me of the verse: “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). This verse reminds me that God is still in charge even when life is challenging. Another thing I am reminded of is the many truths that are true no matter what is happening around me. God is still all powerful and able to manage what I clearly cannot. 

Likely the most significant thing He said to me was this; “be careful where you allow your eyes to rest”. We can stare and turn over again and again whatever it is that is bothering us, or we can lift our eyes up like is exemplified in Psalm 121:1: “For I lift my eyes up, where does my help come from?” 

Our help and our hope are in the One whom nothing is impossible. Truly, it is in the shadow of His wings we find peace and comfort. Also, there is blessed assurance of His enduring presence and the truth that He does not change. He remains faithful and He is for us. 

All these truths can lead us to a place where we can be truly thankful no matter what we are facing. Through these truths we can honestly live out 1 Thessalonians 5:18: “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus”.

In Canada, we celebrate Thanksgiving this weekend. I wish you and all that are dear to you “Happy Thanksgiving!”. If giving thanks to God is coming easily to you, Praise God, that is worth celebrating. However, if it is hard and the journey to thanksgiving is like a hike up a steep hill, I pray that God would encourage your heart with all that is still true and worth giving thanks for. God’s presence in the middle of storms is worth giving thanks for. 

Dear Father,

Thank You for my life, my loved ones and Your constant presence even in the middle of the storms. Thank You that storms are for a season, and they do pass. Lord, what should I be giving thanks for today? 

In Jesus Name,

Amen

The "Iron" Friends

Proverbs 27:17 “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” 

If you go to Black Creek Pioneer Village in Toronto, and watch the black smith demonstrating his craft, it is always iron with iron, not wood or any other kind of material. It is only effective as he strikes the iron with an iron instrument in hand, they can not merely rest idly near each other. 

In life, it is the friends we have who have spoken up and told us the truth we needed to hear that enriches our lives. It is not the friend that is too afraid to speak up. We become better people when we speak up and, in love, say what would be truly helpful to hear. 

In this time of history, it seems much more popular to choose silence rather than speak up. The fear to offend has gripped many and leaves us to choose silence. This does not help us.

It is true that not all truth needs to be spoken as it is not always helpful. There is wisdom that must be applied. There is also a timing to consider. A hard word can be better accepted and heard if it’s shared in a timely manner, where things are perhaps less chaotic or stressful.

 In my experience, when there has been truth that must be spoken, I do pray about it. Sometimes that truth is not supposed to come from me (especially if it has to do with one of my adult children). Sometimes the Lord has asked me to instead leave it with Him, which if I am being honest, is not the answer I was looking for. 

If I know that there is something that I do need to say, I will ask God to show me when is the best time to speak it. I ask Him for an opportunity and then take it becomes available. 

As I look back at conversations over the years, the friends that have inspired me are those who have been willing to take the risk to speak up and ask the questions like: “have you ever considered...?” or “ as I have been listening, can I tell you honestly what I observe?” It is friends who have spoken up in my life that have pushed me forward. They are that iron in my life. 

Who are your “iron friends"? I hope that we can be that person to someone in our life. May God use us to enrich those who are nearest to us. 

Dear Father, 

Thank you for the friends You have used in my life that are like iron to me. I am better today because of them, and I am grateful. I ask that You give me wisdom and courage to be that kind of friend back. Fill me with the sensitivity that comes from You Holy Spirit. 

In Jesus Name,

Amen

The Unmistakable Power of a Life Lived Well

“But someone will say, ‘you have faith; I have deeds.’ Show me your faith without deeds and I will show you my faith by my deeds.” James 2:18

There is a divine balancing act going on in this verse. One is proclamation alone and the other is proclamation (faith) demonstrated by actions. I think it is often easier to talk more than to act on our words. 

I have a very clear memory from high school when I was volunteering at my mom’s center with psychiatric patients. There was a sweet little woman whose name was Florence. She decided I was her best friend and wanted a quick hug when I came to visit. My 14-year-old self was not very keen on that. I was willing to sit beside her, but I had my limits. 

It all sounds innocent enough except from my mom’s point of view. I had started to go to church at that time and had told my mom I was a Christian. That did not impress her at all. I would try to tell her about Jesus, but she would shut down the conversation saying, “Until I can see you love and accept Florence the way Jesus would, don’t talk to me about your faith. I do not believe you.”

My mom’s favorite poem is called: 

Sermons We See by Edgar Guest
I 'd rather see a sermon than hear one any day; 
I'd rather one should walk with me than merely tell the way. 
The eye's a better pupil and more willing than the ear, 
Fine counsel is confusing, but example's always clear; 
And the best of all the preachers are the men who live their creeds, 
For to see good put in action is what everybody needs.

I soon can learn to do it if you'll let me see it done; 
I can watch your hands in action, but your tongue too fast may run. 
And the lecture you deliver may be very wise and true, 
But I'd rather get my lessons by observing what you do; 
For I might misunderstand you and the high advice you give, 
But there's no misunderstanding how you act and how you live.

When I see a deed of kindness, I am eager to be kind. 
When a weaker brother stumbles and a strong man stays behind 
Just to see if he can help him, then the wish grows strong in me 
To become as big and thoughtful as I know that friend to be. 
And all travelers can witness that the best of guides today 
Is not the one who tells them, but the one who shows the way.

One good man teaches many, men believe what they behold; 
One deed of kindness noticed is worth forty that are told. 
Who stands with men of honor learns to hold his honor dear, 
For right living speaks a language which to everyone is clear. 
Though an able speaker charms me with his eloquence, I say, 
I'd rather see a sermon than to hear one, any day.

To be eloquent and able to defend our faith is a great thing, but it is worth little if our lives don’t reflect the message we are trying to share. 

May God give us wisdom and a heart full of His love to care and listen to those He sends us along the way. 

Dear Father,

Fill me today with Your love and tenderness Father. Give me Your eyes to see as You see and ears to hear as You hear. I pray that today, my life would reflect Your love. 

In Jesus Name,

Amen

3 Great News Stories!

“Light in the messenger’s eyes brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.”

Proverbs 15: 30

I love encouraging stories. 

Story # 1.  This summer, I met a little girl who is about 7 years old. She was riding her bike. She stopped to introduce herself to me. She told me, “My mom was told she would never have children, but here I am - I am a miracle”. I could not help but smile. This little girl is a Christ follower and the light of Christ shines through this dear one every day.

Story # 2.  On Sunday we had a new lady at church. My husband, Bill, told me that God healed this woman. She was at the front door of our church receiving a lunch along with many others. She shared that her foot was not well and deeply painful; this had been the case for quite a while now. Someone offered to pray for her and God healed her.

On Sunday the woman came to church and told Bill this story. She was so excited.  She said, “I’d like to come to your church now, if I may. I’m so thankful for what has happened to me.”

If there is one thing, I can tell you about the dear people we minister to on the streets, they are not people with many resources or solutions to what ails them. When we pray for them, we often see eyes shut tight and earnestly calling out to God.

Story # 3.  Last Saturday there was another street involved woman who came up to our church to worship. She has been deteriorating for some time. She struggles with mental illness and hears voices, until she comes into our Saturday night worship service. It reminds me of my brother who would also hear voices. As I prayed over him quietly, he asked me what I am I doing? I told him, I am praying for you. He said, “when you do that, all the voices stop.” When Bill was praying for this woman on Saturday night, peace filled her heart. She described the quiet that comes to her in our place.

We may not have a fancy sanctuary, but God is there, and He meets people where they are. I praise God for all the lives He has touched and brought hope to over so many years.

We are not without hope! God loves us and sees us. He knows our suffering and what is discouraging us today.  I pray that He will meet your needs and calm your fears. You are not alone.

Maybe you have an encouraging story that you can share with someone you know today. It brings health to our bones according to this Proverb!

Dear Father,

Thank You for the great things You are always doing. Thank You for who You are. Restore hope and peace to my heart.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Confession is Still Good for the Soul!

On Sunday I was teaching Sunday school to a bunch of teenagers. The topic was: the tongue, and the trouble it can get us into. We read and discussed a bunch of passages that would give us a window of understanding from God’s Word. 

I asked them “what do you do when you say something you should not have? You head home, and the conversation is eating away at you?” Their answers surprised me. “I get myself super busy, so I don’t have to think about it”.  Another said: “I binge watch a show I don’t like so it really takes my mind off of it”. Some of them shared how they “replay the conversation and rehearse what they should have said.” I asked them if they would go to their friends and apologize? They looked horrified when I asked that! Only one said they went back to their friends and confessed that they should not have said what they did and apologized. She said her friends just look at her like she lost her mind. I asked her: “how did you feel though?” She said it did not matter how her friends responded, she felt better. 

For myself, I experience such a weight in my soul when I know I have said more than I should have or spoke unkindly, I can easily lose sleep over it. I have learned to just make things right. 

In light of this conversation, these scriptures lay things out very clearly: 

“Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful.” James 5:16

“Whoever conceals their sins does not prosper, but the one who confesses and renounces them finds mercy.” Proverbs 28:13

One of the commentaries I read regarding Proverbs 28:13 said this about confession- “Confession is the soul’s vomit, and those who use it, shall have ease of conscience, but God best comforts and cordials to restore them again.” (Trapp) While a very graphic description, I see the truth in it. Even if confession is not very popular in our culture today, it remains helpful and restorative for our souls. We don’t have to go into the gross details. We need to say enough to be understood and leave it. Peace arrives and God will comfort us. 

Dear Father,

Thank you for the practice of confession before You and others when that is what is needed. Give me courage to be honest to confess what I ought and wisdom to carry it through. Thank You.

In Jesus Name,

Amen.