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. 

God's Ear that Bends to Hear Us!

'"Listen to my words, Lord, consider my lament.  Hear my cry for help, my King and my God , for to you I pray. In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice.  In the morning, I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly. Psalm 5:1-3

 I was reading Psalm 5 a few weeks ago and the truth and encouragement I find in it, has not left me.

 Most of my life, I have been told I have small ears. I hear well enough but not like I used to if I am being honest. I do have to guess sometimes what people are saying. There are times, after listening to a long explanation, I struggle really knowing what was said and am hesitant to ask as them to repeat, because it does not always help. It leaves me guessing in part. I will have to get my ears checked out!

 Thankfully, God is not like that. His hearing does not deteriorate like peoples does. One commentary quoted R.A. Torrey from his book, How to Pray. “In order that a prayer should be really unto God, there must be a definite and conscious approach to God when we pray; we must have a definite and vivid realization that God is bending over us and listening as we pray.”

 All week, as I have been asked or burdened to pray for someone or a situation, I have this image in my mind, of the God who hears perfectly, bending His massive ear, to hear my prayer. That simple image has helped me find rest after I have prayed. I know He has heard me, and I can now leave this burden, or this loved one, at His feet. It definitely, helps me wait with expectation.

 Going to God Almighty with our requests reminded me of something we do routinely. If we have a friend with a hard plumbing question, we ask our plumber friend what he thinks. We go to someone who knows.

 We go to the God who hears and bends His ear to hear our prayer, whether it be loud or whispered. You matter to Him. He loves you and all these things that are bothering you. He knows how to direct you or your loved one. He is the God who intervenes. As we pray, we wait with confidence. He has heard us. We do need to be sure to confess our sins first though! This should be our practice as we enter the throne room of our Holy God.

 Dear Father,

 Thank you for hearing me as I pray. Thank You for bending your ear toward me. Thank You that nothing is too hard for You. Remind me daily, of that massive ear of Yours, bending to hear me as I pray.

 In Jesus Name,

 Amen

Strikes and bad News – what can I do?

The news can be hard to read. I admit, there are times it can make me anxious and even angry. It is easy to read stories and be left feeling a bit hopeless. The stories of wars or new tariffs that our country is dealing with, they can all add up. I know several people who have stopped reading the news and I understand why.

Most recently, in Canada, we have had to deal with a huge strike by a major airline. This strike affected my own family deeply. I know there are countless stories across the country of families who put there trust in this airline, booking tickets and making plans in good faith. All ending up in cancelled flights and deep disappointments and difficult predicaments.

As I was reading or listening to the news the thought came to me simply as to receive whatever I heard or read as a guide in how I ought to pray.

So, that is exactly what I have made my practice. If there is an important meeting about the ending of a war, I pray. If there is a flood or forest fire, I pray for those involved. Whatever is going on, if I read it and it grabs my heart I pray.

We are instructed to “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful”. Colossians 4:2

I would like to take this moment to encourage you to join me in praying about these hard things that are happening in the world. We know that nothing is too hard for God.  This world is in desperate need of God’s wisdom and His intervention. Let’s pray for that. God is able. He invites us to pray, and prayer is a powerful thing! Leave all these huge things at the feet of God who is God Almighty. Then my friend, rest in Him and give thanks. Remember, our great Shepherd who is always near to us, also says multiple times in His word. “Do not be afraid”. May He calm our fears and give us the faith we need to trust Him even as we lay all these many problems at His feet.

Dear Father,

Thank You for being a God who is all Powerful and more than able. Thank You that I can leave all that is going in not only in my life at your feet, but also all that is going on in the world. I do pray that You Father, would intervene. Bring Your wisdom to our leaders and peace in these war-torn lands. Father, calm my fears. Minister to those who weep. Father, you see this whole world in a glance. I leave all the news of today with You.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Simple and Encouraging at the Same Time!

“He touched her hand and the fever left her, and she got up and began to serve them.”  Matt. 8:15

Many people would breeze right by this passage.  As a mother of 4 and a mother-in-law almost 4 times over, I find this story important. Next week is the wedding of my 3rd born and the last of my children to become married.

As a mom and a mother-in-law, there is no shortage of jokes. Some of them are even funny.

When Jesus discovers that Peter’s mother-in-law is sick, He does not say, “Sorry to hear that.” and then carries on with the purpose of his visit to that home.  Jesus touches the woman, healing her completely from that terrible fever! The transformation is so significant that she gets up immediately and begins serving them.

I have to wonder about this woman, frankly.   When I have been sick like this, I do not generally think of serving a crowd of people right away. This lady does. I think that is impressive.  She must love to serve.  She did not sit down so she could get back to her knitting or nurse a nice hot cup of tea - she chose to serve.

This passage encourages me, that while there are times that I may feel unseen as mother or mom in law (maybe true, maybe not..) Jesus sees me, and He sees you if you find yourself a mom like me.

I can learn from this woman also. Serving is important. For me, I can always grow in this.

I am thankful for this simple passage and the reminder that I am seen by Jesus, and you are too!

Dear Jesus,

Thank you for this simple story and the beautiful truth it represents. Thank you that it mattered enough to make it into Your word. Thank You for mothers in law and moms. I had a wonderful one; I learned much from her example. She certainly taught me what it meant to serve humbly. Help us to be found serving You and others faithfully.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Waiting Patiently... Not my Top Virtue

Patience is a virtue that is difficult when we are feeling anxious and are accustomed to everything being instant.

Psalm 40:1 says, “I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry.”

In my experience, God is not always fast at responding to my prayers. Sometimes He is, but not always. I think we all have our timelines laid out for God to respond to. Yet, our Father in Heaven whom we cry out to also said,

 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, “declares the Lord. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” Isa. 55:8-9.

 God does not think like we do nor are His ways our ways. There is much faith involved in waiting. Think of the confusion and harm that can come because we fail to wait on God for His timing and direction. In Gen 15:4 God says this to Abraham;

“This man will not be your heir, but a son who is your own flesh and blood will be your heir.” 5He took him outside and said, “Look up at the sky and count the stars—if indeed you can count them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your offspring be.”

Sarah would not wait for God to fulfill His promise; she thought she would help God out by giving her servant Hagar to Abraham to bear this promised child. That was a terrible idea. Unfortunately, Abraham gave in to Sarah’s scheme and soon we meet Hagar’s son Ishmael. If you read the following chapters you will see the problems and grief that was caused by the impatience of Sarah and the foolish giving in of Abraham.

We find ourselves often waiting on God for something or someone. The challenge is to not allow our lack of faith, anxiety, or patience to prompt us to move ahead of God. We have all seen God care for us in days gone by. He is faithful and will do whatever is in His heart to do.

I did ask God today “what about when we are waiting on someone we love who keeps doing something that is foolish or harmful, and they keep doing it?”

He simply reminded me to put my trust in Him and not in our loved one. He also reminded me to give thanks, as nothing is impossible for Him.

Perhaps that is not the answer we are wishing for, but it is the heart of our Father. Trust, give thanks and wait.

Dear Father,

You know everything I am waiting on today. I put my trust in You and ask for Your mercy. Thank You for hearing me when I call out to you. Thank You for being all wise. Your ways and Your thoughts are far beyond my own. I choose to wait and trust You. Thank You for what You are doing, even in this moment. I trust you.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

Don't Lose Your Voice!

“And now you be silent and not able to speak until the day this happens, because you did not believe my words which will come true at the appointed time.” Luke 1:20

I will never forget the summer I lost my voice. We had just moved to Toronto to begin our ministry there. Our kids were all young. Having no voice was very challenging.

I was thinking about when this happened to Zachariah in Luke 1. We read that he also lost his voice, but his story was quite different.  Zachariah had met the angel Gabriel and was told that his wife would have a baby in her old age. He found this hard to believe. To demonstrate the truth of his words, the angel took away Zachariah’s voice. He would only have it back when the fulfillment of what was promised had come to pass.

The root of Zachariah’s silence was unbelief. When we fail to believe God for what He is doing, we also find ourselves silent. That silence cannot declare the incredible thing God is doing and bring glory to God because of our unbelief.

When Zachariah expressed his unbelief regarding his wife bearing a child in her old age, it was not only he that lost, but everyone else also. They knew something had happened but were deprived of the blessing and the incredible faith building story because of Zachariah’s silence.

Recently my husband prayed for God to heal someone in hospital. The situation looked very bad. He prayed for healing. The next morning, this individual was released from hospital. I was surprised that they failed to see any connection between my husband’s prayer and their healing. We gave thanks to God for what He did. These people did not see it like that at all.

When we fail to believe, it is like losing your voice to share of the great things that God has done and will do. May we each have that beautiful faith to believe so we can tell others of the mountains that have moved and lives that are changed.

Dear Father,

Thank you for your Word today. Forgive me for my unbelief.  You are the God of the impossible. I choose to trust You so that I might be able to declare Your praise to those around me.  You alone do great things.  I delight to speak of them.

In Jesus Name,

Amen

6 Clues that you may be boasting!

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others. It is not self-seeking. It is not easily angered; it keeps no record of wrong.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-5

Have you ever had one of those days where the Holy Spirit taps you on the shoulder and gently lets you know you blew it? 

I was driving with my dog Penny just thinking about nothing in particular. I heard that still small voice who brought a recent conversation I’d had to mind. He said to me “Donna, you were boasting”. I wanted to argue my case as my boasting came from a story I like sharing, but God does not. So, I asked the Lord to forgive me. 

I talked to Him about boasting and how easily I can slide into it without giving it any thought. I asked Him: “how can I know when I am being boastful?”. Here is the list He gave me. Perhaps there is more to add, but this is what came to mind: 

1. When I tell a story and at the end of it, I am quietly hoping they will think I am wonderful. 

2. It has the fragrance (or more accurately: smell) of pride. 

3. There is a satisfaction that comes to my mind, like “ yeah, that is exactly what I said and I wish I could have said more!” 

4. The motive in my heart has nothing to do with bringing any glory to God, only to myself. 

5. While pride is present and I’m in boasting mode, I find that grace is in short supply. 

6. Lastly, is an image that came to mind when I was thinking about boasting. The Lord simply said, “it is not a good look Donna. It is like wearing a striped shirt with shorts that are covered in squares. It’s hard to look at.”

How about you? What would you add to the list? Boasting is not what love lived out looks like. Boasting is self-seeking, and proud all at the same time. I am not talking about when we tell each other about our kids or grandkids, I am talking about the stories that quietly puff ourselves up. Trust me, I love to tell a good story, but I need to do so with 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 in mind. 

Dear Father, 

I wish I could get things right. I thank You for forgiveness. Please tap me on the shoulder again if You hear me being boastful? I know it is not good, nor pleasant to listen to. Forgive me God.

In Jesus’ Name,

Amen