My Shepherd
Psalm 23
David M. Powers
Of all the well-known phrases of the well-loved 23rd Psalm, one word symbolizes what makes these verses so compelling. One word stands out. That word is, "my." "My shepherd."
The people of ancient Israel were very familiar with shepherds and shepherding in ways that most of us today are not. They had long thought of God as a shepherd. They remembered how God had guided their refugee ancestors cross-country from down in Egypt up to the Promised Land, much as a shepherd guides a flock of meandering sheep.
But with this Psalm of David comes a brand new discovery: an intimacy, an individuality, a personal connection with God the Shepherd. So the psalm-singer sings a new note. "The Lord is my Shepherd."
The rest of the Psalm vividly pictures what the Shepherd has to offer and what the Shepherd accomplishes for the sheep. The Shepherd does what the sheep may not be able to do on their own. The Shepherd nourishes, guides, restores, comforts, refreshes.
Even though I don't often think of myself as a sheep, I definitely need everything my Shepherd can do for me.
Prayer: Savior, like a shepherd lead us; much we need your tender care. Amen.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Devotional...2/28
Our Favorite Psalm
Psalm 23
Lillian Daniel
Spend some time reading the words of the 23rd Psalm from your Bible today and remember when you have heard it read out loud. Many of us will think of funerals, when these words have reminded us of God's promises but also of the finality of that moment. For some families, it is in hearing the 23rd Psalm that they realize the funeral is really, actually happening. In our saddest moments, it offers comfort and understanding.
I encourage you to read this psalm at other times in your life. There is as much in this psalm about life as there is about death. It can be a comfort during times of anxiety to know that "the Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want." Sheep may not know where the shepherd is. Their faces are to the ground or at eye level. But the shepherd knows where the sheep are. The shepherd's gaze scans the horizon until every lost sheep is accounted for, in a picture that is bigger than the sheep can take in.
Live your life with that security. Remember that someone is always looking out for you, even as you walk through the valley of the shadow of death, and even as you engage richly in life.
Prayer: God help me to remember your promises: "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever;" in this life, and in the life to come. Amen.
Psalm 23
Lillian Daniel
Spend some time reading the words of the 23rd Psalm from your Bible today and remember when you have heard it read out loud. Many of us will think of funerals, when these words have reminded us of God's promises but also of the finality of that moment. For some families, it is in hearing the 23rd Psalm that they realize the funeral is really, actually happening. In our saddest moments, it offers comfort and understanding.
I encourage you to read this psalm at other times in your life. There is as much in this psalm about life as there is about death. It can be a comfort during times of anxiety to know that "the Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want." Sheep may not know where the shepherd is. Their faces are to the ground or at eye level. But the shepherd knows where the sheep are. The shepherd's gaze scans the horizon until every lost sheep is accounted for, in a picture that is bigger than the sheep can take in.
Live your life with that security. Remember that someone is always looking out for you, even as you walk through the valley of the shadow of death, and even as you engage richly in life.
Prayer: God help me to remember your promises: "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever;" in this life, and in the life to come. Amen.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
cute nephew story...
so, my nephews had a "sleepover" with my parents Saturday into Sunday. Sunday afternoon, they went to visit my grandma. As they were getting ready to leave, my mom asked my youngest "Where are we going next"...his reply "Nana's house". She asked, well, isn't it Pa's house too? Nope...Nana's house. Last question to the C-man...well, where does Pa live then? His reply...he lives at Nana's house.
Out of the mouth of babes!
Out of the mouth of babes!
Devotional...2/27
True Things
John 7:14-31, 37-39
Quinn G. Caldwell
Some things never change. Enter a group of people, say a true thing about God, and the same thing will always happen: some of the people will call you good, and the rest will think you're crazy, or will want to kill you, or both. It happened to Jesus, too: in Jerusalem for the Festival of Booths, in the middle of a crowd, in the Temple itself, Jesus began to say true things about God and about himself. Some believed him; others wanted him dead. Eventually, the latter group would win. For a while.
These days, speaking truth about God may not get you killed, but it sure will earn you some funny looks. In some crowds, they call you names like "religious fanatic," "Jesus freak," "ignorant." In others, saying true things gets you called "heretic," "unbeliever," "sinner." But as in Jesus' time, in every crowd--in every crowd--there will be those for whom your words will be like living water. Those who have been waiting for a long, parched time. Those for whom the things you say will be cool, and clear, and will go down like a long swig of salvation.
Some things never change: true things about God are always dangerous. Saying them is not easy. It will almost always get you in trouble. And the world is full of thirsty people.
Prayer: God, give me the vision and the courage to say true things about you wherever I go. Amen
John 7:14-31, 37-39
Quinn G. Caldwell
Some things never change. Enter a group of people, say a true thing about God, and the same thing will always happen: some of the people will call you good, and the rest will think you're crazy, or will want to kill you, or both. It happened to Jesus, too: in Jerusalem for the Festival of Booths, in the middle of a crowd, in the Temple itself, Jesus began to say true things about God and about himself. Some believed him; others wanted him dead. Eventually, the latter group would win. For a while.
These days, speaking truth about God may not get you killed, but it sure will earn you some funny looks. In some crowds, they call you names like "religious fanatic," "Jesus freak," "ignorant." In others, saying true things gets you called "heretic," "unbeliever," "sinner." But as in Jesus' time, in every crowd--in every crowd--there will be those for whom your words will be like living water. Those who have been waiting for a long, parched time. Those for whom the things you say will be cool, and clear, and will go down like a long swig of salvation.
Some things never change: true things about God are always dangerous. Saying them is not easy. It will almost always get you in trouble. And the world is full of thirsty people.
Prayer: God, give me the vision and the courage to say true things about you wherever I go. Amen
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Lent Devotional...2/26
Marvelous Error
Psalm 81
William Green
Every turn of events, however upsetting, can be raw material for something that surfaces with the sweetness of honey (v. 16b). Elsewhere in this Lenten sequence of readings, Scripture speaks of water and the satisfaction of thirst (1 Corinthians 10:1-4).
Knowing this involves repentance. To repent includes looking again at what we face. "What have you done with your eyes?" asked Antonio Machado's mother when he was a boy upset about not getting the birthday gift he wanted. The Spanish poet carried that question with him the rest of his life, challenging the narcissism that locks us in the prison of our own image.
Can we look again at disappointment we have experienced, mistakes we have made, misfortune we have endured, apprehension we feel, and see that these did not have the last word, or need not? Can we see that sometimes there may be no shorter way to get where we need to go--no easier way to satisfaction?
In one of his poems, Machado writes:
Last night as I was sleeping,
I dreamt--marvelous error!--
that I had a beehive
here inside my heart.
And the golden bees
were making white combs
and sweet honey
from my old failures...
Weird dream? Marvelous error? Amazing grace?
Prayer: O God, be my vision and help me look again at what I face. Open my eyes to see and believe your promise of hope and deliverance. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Psalm 81
William Green
Every turn of events, however upsetting, can be raw material for something that surfaces with the sweetness of honey (v. 16b). Elsewhere in this Lenten sequence of readings, Scripture speaks of water and the satisfaction of thirst (1 Corinthians 10:1-4).
Knowing this involves repentance. To repent includes looking again at what we face. "What have you done with your eyes?" asked Antonio Machado's mother when he was a boy upset about not getting the birthday gift he wanted. The Spanish poet carried that question with him the rest of his life, challenging the narcissism that locks us in the prison of our own image.
Can we look again at disappointment we have experienced, mistakes we have made, misfortune we have endured, apprehension we feel, and see that these did not have the last word, or need not? Can we see that sometimes there may be no shorter way to get where we need to go--no easier way to satisfaction?
In one of his poems, Machado writes:
Last night as I was sleeping,
I dreamt--marvelous error!--
that I had a beehive
here inside my heart.
And the golden bees
were making white combs
and sweet honey
from my old failures...
Weird dream? Marvelous error? Amazing grace?
Prayer: O God, be my vision and help me look again at what I face. Open my eyes to see and believe your promise of hope and deliverance. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Nice weekend
but of course it went by too fast!
Saturday, momma and I headed out to a handbell workshop. It started off with a massed ringing session...WAY cool and then we had different sessions throughout the day. It finished with a concert by the Agape Ringers, a handbell choir...VERY COOL!
Yesterday our friend Deb came for a visit along with her two girls felicia and brittney...it's amazing to see how big those girls have gotten! we had fun just hanging out and playing different games. after they left, we tried watching the oscars, (i ended up falling asleep...lol)
more snow is expected tonight...FANTASTIC!!
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Lenten Devotional - February 24th
Strong in the Broken Places
Romans 5:1-11
Martin B. Copenhaver
Ernest Hemingway sounds very much like the Apostle Paul when he writes, in A Farewell to Arms, "The world breaks everyone, and afterward some are strong in the broken places." As Christians, however, we understand our brokenness and become strong in a particular way. Paul affirms that, for the Christian, all of life is a reenactment of the death and resurrection of Jesus. His story is not just one we can hear, but a story in which we are invited to share. So the world may break everyone, but that is not the last word. The Christian holds, not that things always turn out for the best, for they seldom do, but that through it all God loves us, upholds us, receives us. That is because our God is the kind of God who insists on having the last word. To be sure, the second to last word, which may be very powerful, can be given to something else--suffering, despair, hopelessness, evil, death itself. But our God insists on having the very last word, and that is always a helpful word, a healing word, a word of peace, of hopefulness, and of life. That is what it means to participate in the death and resurrection of Jesus. It is about God taking the raw stuff of defeat and forging an ultimate victory. It is about becoming strong in the broken places.
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the promise that my life is so bound to Jesus' life that, even when I am broken, I can become strong in the broken places through your grace. Amen.
Romans 5:1-11
Martin B. Copenhaver
Ernest Hemingway sounds very much like the Apostle Paul when he writes, in A Farewell to Arms, "The world breaks everyone, and afterward some are strong in the broken places." As Christians, however, we understand our brokenness and become strong in a particular way. Paul affirms that, for the Christian, all of life is a reenactment of the death and resurrection of Jesus. His story is not just one we can hear, but a story in which we are invited to share. So the world may break everyone, but that is not the last word. The Christian holds, not that things always turn out for the best, for they seldom do, but that through it all God loves us, upholds us, receives us. That is because our God is the kind of God who insists on having the last word. To be sure, the second to last word, which may be very powerful, can be given to something else--suffering, despair, hopelessness, evil, death itself. But our God insists on having the very last word, and that is always a helpful word, a healing word, a word of peace, of hopefulness, and of life. That is what it means to participate in the death and resurrection of Jesus. It is about God taking the raw stuff of defeat and forging an ultimate victory. It is about becoming strong in the broken places.
Prayer: Dear God, thank you for the promise that my life is so bound to Jesus' life that, even when I am broken, I can become strong in the broken places through your grace. Amen.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
2/23
Even a Monkey Gets Tired
John 4:1-6
Ron Buford
My dad, James Buford, was fond of telling African fables in which all the animals of the jungle are gathered, much like Aesop's fables. The monkey, often called the "signifying monkey," would receive the brunt of jokes and insults; he would also usually deliver the punch line or lesson.
Dad told these stories so often that after a while, he could simply deliver the punch line and we would know its relevance to any given situation. One such punch line was, "Even a monkey gets tired."
Dad would use this with me when he thought I was working too hard, though he himself was a hard worker. He would lovingly look at me, even after I was an adult, smile, and gently say, "Boy, even a monkey gets tired." We would laugh together at this reminder to slow down or even stop.
Our text tells us that even Jesus, our master teacher, the one who would pour out his life for you and me, took time to rest.
Lent is a good time to be intentional about taking something out of our schedules to rest and meditate on God, love, life and to pray. The things we give up during Lent are not meant to be punishments, but commas that gives us time for a refreshing cool drink at God's spring because... "even a monkey gets tired."
Prayer: Gracious God, help me to be mindful of God’s gifts during life’s comma times, whether such times come by my choosing or are beyond my control. Amen.
John 4:1-6
Ron Buford
My dad, James Buford, was fond of telling African fables in which all the animals of the jungle are gathered, much like Aesop's fables. The monkey, often called the "signifying monkey," would receive the brunt of jokes and insults; he would also usually deliver the punch line or lesson.
Dad told these stories so often that after a while, he could simply deliver the punch line and we would know its relevance to any given situation. One such punch line was, "Even a monkey gets tired."
Dad would use this with me when he thought I was working too hard, though he himself was a hard worker. He would lovingly look at me, even after I was an adult, smile, and gently say, "Boy, even a monkey gets tired." We would laugh together at this reminder to slow down or even stop.
Our text tells us that even Jesus, our master teacher, the one who would pour out his life for you and me, took time to rest.
Lent is a good time to be intentional about taking something out of our schedules to rest and meditate on God, love, life and to pray. The things we give up during Lent are not meant to be punishments, but commas that gives us time for a refreshing cool drink at God's spring because... "even a monkey gets tired."
Prayer: Gracious God, help me to be mindful of God’s gifts during life’s comma times, whether such times come by my choosing or are beyond my control. Amen.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Lenten Devotional - February 22
Morning by Morning
Exodus 16: 19 - 21
Anthony B. Robinson
"Morning by morning they gathered it, as much as each needed; but when the sun grew hot, it melted." In the wilderness the Hebrews cried out for food, and the Lord provided, but with a hitch. The manna would come fresh every morning and could not be saved up. While dependence can become a problem in human relationships, and independence and self-reliance are often good things, there is special grace in dependence, in dependence on the Lord. Working as a speaker and teacher in all sorts of contexts and situations, I do prepare, but I also am learning to trust in the strange and wonderful ways that God provides the right word, the timely theme, the appropriate story or illustration.
Moreover, the true word cannot be saved up. When I try to save it up, or to save myself up, I lose what I have. When I give all that I have and am, there is more given to me.
Prayer: Grant me grace this day, O Lord, to receive what you want to give me and to use it all up, to give it all out, knowing that tomorrow you will provide all that I need. Amen.
Exodus 16: 19 - 21
Anthony B. Robinson
"Morning by morning they gathered it, as much as each needed; but when the sun grew hot, it melted." In the wilderness the Hebrews cried out for food, and the Lord provided, but with a hitch. The manna would come fresh every morning and could not be saved up. While dependence can become a problem in human relationships, and independence and self-reliance are often good things, there is special grace in dependence, in dependence on the Lord. Working as a speaker and teacher in all sorts of contexts and situations, I do prepare, but I also am learning to trust in the strange and wonderful ways that God provides the right word, the timely theme, the appropriate story or illustration.
Moreover, the true word cannot be saved up. When I try to save it up, or to save myself up, I lose what I have. When I give all that I have and am, there is more given to me.
Prayer: Grant me grace this day, O Lord, to receive what you want to give me and to use it all up, to give it all out, knowing that tomorrow you will provide all that I need. Amen.
Devotional - 2/21
Complaining about Hunger
Exodus 16: 1- 8
Donna Schaper
If you've ever been really hungry, you understand what the Israelites were saying. Hunger hurts. It hurts the body, then it worries the mind, and then it scars the soul. Hunger is something too many children live with for too long. They are scarred by it. Hunger scars.
If you've never been really hungry, you probably don't understand what the Israelites were saying. Sure, you can spiritualize the problem and speak of your hunger for recognition or joy. But that would miss the point of this text. During Lent, there is nothing wrong with a little fasting and a little holding back at the table.
Why? We could taste both the desperation of hunger and the joy of being fed. Is it right to borrow experience like this? You can't be really hungry if you know where your next meal comes from nor can you imitate the scarring by not being scarred.
Fasting is a witness to the pain and the love of God. It is not a perfect practice nor is it anything to brag about. It is a token of the respect we have for the hungry. That's all. I mean, that's all.
Prayer: Whenever I eat, however I eat, let me remember those who do not--and pray like heaven for the day when all will be fed as well as I am. Amen.
Exodus 16: 1- 8
Donna Schaper
If you've ever been really hungry, you understand what the Israelites were saying. Hunger hurts. It hurts the body, then it worries the mind, and then it scars the soul. Hunger is something too many children live with for too long. They are scarred by it. Hunger scars.
If you've never been really hungry, you probably don't understand what the Israelites were saying. Sure, you can spiritualize the problem and speak of your hunger for recognition or joy. But that would miss the point of this text. During Lent, there is nothing wrong with a little fasting and a little holding back at the table.
Why? We could taste both the desperation of hunger and the joy of being fed. Is it right to borrow experience like this? You can't be really hungry if you know where your next meal comes from nor can you imitate the scarring by not being scarred.
Fasting is a witness to the pain and the love of God. It is not a perfect practice nor is it anything to brag about. It is a token of the respect we have for the hungry. That's all. I mean, that's all.
Prayer: Whenever I eat, however I eat, let me remember those who do not--and pray like heaven for the day when all will be fed as well as I am. Amen.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Grandma's Hands
This was emailed to me and I couldn't help but sharing!!
GRANDMA'S HANDS A must read thru to the end please!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Grandma, some ninety plus years, sat feebly on the patio bench.
She didn't move, just sat with her head down staring at her hands.
When I sat down beside her she didn't acknowledge my presence and the
longer I sat I wondered if she was OK.
Finally, not really wanting to disturb her but wanting to check on her
at the same time, I asked her if she was OK. She raised her head and
looked at me and smiled. 'Yes, I'm fine, thank you for asking,' she
said in a clear voice strong.
'I didn't mean to disturb you, grandma, but you were just sitting here
staring at your hands and I wanted to make sure you were OK,' I
explained to her.
'Have you ever looked at your hands,' she asked. 'I mean really
looked at your hands?'
I slowly opened my hands and stared down at them. I turned them
over, palms up and then palms down. No, I guess I had never really looked at
my hands as I tried to figure out the point she was making.
Grandma smiled and related this story:
'Stop and think for a moment about the hands you have, how they have
served you well throughout your years. These hands, though wrinkled
shriveled and weak have been the tools I have used all my life to
reach out and grab and embrace life.
'They braced and caught my fall when as a toddler I crashed upon the
floor.
They put food in my mouth and clothes on my back. As a child, my
mother taught me to fold them in prayer. They tied my shoes and pulled
on my boots. They held my husband and wiped my tears when he went off
to war.
'They have been dirty, scraped and raw , swollen and bent. They were
uneasy and clumsy when I tried to hold my newborn son. Decorated
with my wedding band they showed the world that I was married and loved someone
special.
They wrote my letters to him and trembled and shook when I
buried my parents and spouse.
'They have held my children and grandchildren, consoled neighbors, and
shook in fists of anger when I didn't understand.
They have covered my face, combed my hair, and washed and cleansed the
rest of my body. They have been sticky and wet, bent and broken, dried
and raw. And to this day when not much of anything else of me works
real well these hands hold me up, lay me down, and again continue to
fold in prayer.
'These hands are the mark of where I've been and the ruggedness of life.
But more importantly it will be these hands that God will reach out
and take when he leads me home. And with my hands He will lift me to
His side and there I will use these hands to touch the face of
Christ.'
I will never look at my hands the same again. But I remember God
reached out and took my grandma's hands and led her home.
When my hands are hurt or sore or when I stroke the face of my
children and husband I think of grandma. I know she has been stroked and
caressed and held by the hands of God.
I, too, want to touch the face of God and feel His hands upon my
face.
When you receive this, say a prayer for the person who sent it to
you, and watch God's answer to prayer work in your life. Let's continue
praying for one another.
Passing this on to anyone you consider a friend will bless you both.
Passing this on to one not yet considered a friend is something
Christ would do.
-- Author Unknown
looking forward to spring...
i'm so tired of the cold weather...the snow I don't mind so much...but the freezing temperatures...ugh! So done with those!!
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Why Starbucks Should Have an Age Limit
Ok...so this is copied from Marcy's blog...but it's too hysterical not to share here...below is a conversation between Marcy and her parents about ordering from Starbucks!!
Marcy: (Phone rings) Hi Mom...what's up?
Mom: I'm going to Starbucks. What should I get?
Marcy: What are you in the mood for?
Mom: Well, there are those two things I like there. One of those.
Marcy: Which two things?
Mom: Oh come on, you know.
Marcy: Um, no. I don't.
Mom: Yes you do - that carmelly shake thing and that white chocolate coffe thing.
Marcy: Hot or cold?
Mom: Cold, of course. How could it be like a shake and be hot?
Marcy: No, the second one. The white chocolate lattee. Did you want that hot or cold.
Mom: Hot, of course. Who gets those drinks cold?
Marcy: Um.....me.
Mom: Oh, well then, hot for me.
Marcy: So which one did you want?
Mom: I told you I don't remember the names.
Marcy: No - I mean of the two - which one.
Mom: Well, since it's freezing cold here, obviously the hot one.
Marcy: Sigh. Okay then you want the venti white…
Mom: Hold on. You know I cannot remember this stuff. I have to get a pen
[pause where Mom tries to find a pen…she could have made one in the time it took her to find one]
Mom: Okay. What do I want?
Marcy: A venti
Mom: Spell that?
Marcy: Why – is there a test on this?
Mom: Don't get smart with me. I just asked for your help and now you are getting smart with me.
Marcy: Okay. Sorry. V-E-N-T-I White Chocolate non-fat Mocha.
Mom: Is that with skim milk?
Marcy: Yep – that's why you tell them non-fat.
Mom: Oh – you don't say skim?
Marcy: Nope – non-fat.
Mom: Oh, and of course, sugar free.
Marcy: Mom – the white chocolate is not sugar free.
Mom: What? Yes it is – I got it there before.
Marcy: Mom – they don't have white chocolate in sugar free. They only have caramel, vanilla, hazelnut, and cinnamon [note – this was before s/free mocha was added].
Mom: Are you sure?
Marcy: [pause] Yes.
Mom: Well I have to have sugar free. What about that hot caramel maraschino thing.
Marcy: You mean the Caramel Macchiato?
Mom: Yeah, how do you say that?
Marcy: Macchiato.
Mom: Yeah, that's sugar free because it has caramel right?
Marcy: Kinda. It would have the sugar free syrup but the caramel they add to it would have sugar.
Mom: That's silly. Well, I don't want sugar so what are my choices.
Marcy: You could get a latte in vanilla, hazelnut, cinnamon dulce, or caramel.
Mom: And a latte is just coffee with milk.
Marcy: It's expresso with milk – it's what I get.
Mom: Same thing – and I said I wanted it warm not cold.
Marcy: You can get it either way.
Mom: Which flavor should I get?
Marcy: I would recommend the caramel or the vanilla.
Mom: Not the hazelnut?
Marcy: I think it has a funky aftertaste.
Mom: What kind of aftertaste…maybe I'll like it.
Marcy: I don't know Mom. It just tastes funny.
Mom: Well, don't get mad at me, I was just asking.
Marcy: I'm not.
Mom: Okay so I want the caramel thing you were telling me about. How do I order that?
Marcy: Venti non-fat, sugar-free caramel latte [this was before skinny was used]
Mom: And if I am going through the drive thru, will they add the sweetener I need. Because you know I like my coffee sweet and need a lot of sweatner. Will they laugh at me for it?
Marcy: Mom, they are used to hearing weird stuff all the time. It's not a problem. How many sweeteners do you have them add?
Mom: You'll make fun of me.
Marcy: No. I won't. I promise.
Mom: 10 Splenda.
Marcy: [Silence]
Mom: I like it sweet, what can I say.
Marcy: [Silence]
Mom: Okay, so I get the venti non-fat, sugar free caramel latte with 10 splendas. Right? And they won't laugh?
Marcy: Oh they'll laugh alright but not to your face. Don't worry about it – just order what you want. Okay?
Mom: Okay. Thanks!
Marcy: Sure. Gotta run. Talk to you later.
Mom: Okay. Love you.
Marcy: I love you too.
[Phone is hung up. 1 minute later, phone rings again]
Marcy: Hi Dad.
Dad: Hi there. Do you have a minute.
Marcy: Sure. What's up?
Dad: Mom's going to Starbucks and offered to get me a drink but I don't know what to get. What would I like there?
Marcy: [Sigh]. Yeah, Mom called me and asked me the same thing.
Dad: [Laughing] Really? Well, you know I just never know what I like there.
Marcy: You like the double chocolate chip frappuccino blended crème.
Dad: [pausing] Could you call your Mom and tell her what to get me?
Marcy: Yes.
Dad: Thanks – I just can never remember what to get.
Marcy: Sure. Gotta run so I can call her.
Dad: Okay, thanks.
Marcy: Sure.
[Hang up phone. Dials.]
Mom: Hi honed. Did your dad get ahold of you?
Marcy: Yep, that's why I'm calling. Do you have a pen?
Mom: Somewhere here. I'm driving.
Marcy: Do you want to call me back when you are not?
Mom: No hold on. Okay.
Marcy: He'll take a venti double chocolate
Mom: Slow down!
Marcy: Okay, he'll take a venti … double … chocolate …. Chip …. Frappuccino.
Mom: A what?
Marcy: Frappuccino.
Mom: Is that the blended thing that tastes like ice cream?
Marcy: Yes.
Mom: Okay.
Marcy: I have to go.
Mom: Okay. Thanks.
When I asked later if they enjoyed their Starbucks, Mom indicated she was late leaving her meeting and was not able to go afterall. See – they need an age limit or a this is what to order card.
Marcy: (Phone rings) Hi Mom...what's up?
Mom: I'm going to Starbucks. What should I get?
Marcy: What are you in the mood for?
Mom: Well, there are those two things I like there. One of those.
Marcy: Which two things?
Mom: Oh come on, you know.
Marcy: Um, no. I don't.
Mom: Yes you do - that carmelly shake thing and that white chocolate coffe thing.
Marcy: Hot or cold?
Mom: Cold, of course. How could it be like a shake and be hot?
Marcy: No, the second one. The white chocolate lattee. Did you want that hot or cold.
Mom: Hot, of course. Who gets those drinks cold?
Marcy: Um.....me.
Mom: Oh, well then, hot for me.
Marcy: So which one did you want?
Mom: I told you I don't remember the names.
Marcy: No - I mean of the two - which one.
Mom: Well, since it's freezing cold here, obviously the hot one.
Marcy: Sigh. Okay then you want the venti white…
Mom: Hold on. You know I cannot remember this stuff. I have to get a pen
[pause where Mom tries to find a pen…she could have made one in the time it took her to find one]
Mom: Okay. What do I want?
Marcy: A venti
Mom: Spell that?
Marcy: Why – is there a test on this?
Mom: Don't get smart with me. I just asked for your help and now you are getting smart with me.
Marcy: Okay. Sorry. V-E-N-T-I White Chocolate non-fat Mocha.
Mom: Is that with skim milk?
Marcy: Yep – that's why you tell them non-fat.
Mom: Oh – you don't say skim?
Marcy: Nope – non-fat.
Mom: Oh, and of course, sugar free.
Marcy: Mom – the white chocolate is not sugar free.
Mom: What? Yes it is – I got it there before.
Marcy: Mom – they don't have white chocolate in sugar free. They only have caramel, vanilla, hazelnut, and cinnamon [note – this was before s/free mocha was added].
Mom: Are you sure?
Marcy: [pause] Yes.
Mom: Well I have to have sugar free. What about that hot caramel maraschino thing.
Marcy: You mean the Caramel Macchiato?
Mom: Yeah, how do you say that?
Marcy: Macchiato.
Mom: Yeah, that's sugar free because it has caramel right?
Marcy: Kinda. It would have the sugar free syrup but the caramel they add to it would have sugar.
Mom: That's silly. Well, I don't want sugar so what are my choices.
Marcy: You could get a latte in vanilla, hazelnut, cinnamon dulce, or caramel.
Mom: And a latte is just coffee with milk.
Marcy: It's expresso with milk – it's what I get.
Mom: Same thing – and I said I wanted it warm not cold.
Marcy: You can get it either way.
Mom: Which flavor should I get?
Marcy: I would recommend the caramel or the vanilla.
Mom: Not the hazelnut?
Marcy: I think it has a funky aftertaste.
Mom: What kind of aftertaste…maybe I'll like it.
Marcy: I don't know Mom. It just tastes funny.
Mom: Well, don't get mad at me, I was just asking.
Marcy: I'm not.
Mom: Okay so I want the caramel thing you were telling me about. How do I order that?
Marcy: Venti non-fat, sugar-free caramel latte [this was before skinny was used]
Mom: And if I am going through the drive thru, will they add the sweetener I need. Because you know I like my coffee sweet and need a lot of sweatner. Will they laugh at me for it?
Marcy: Mom, they are used to hearing weird stuff all the time. It's not a problem. How many sweeteners do you have them add?
Mom: You'll make fun of me.
Marcy: No. I won't. I promise.
Mom: 10 Splenda.
Marcy: [Silence]
Mom: I like it sweet, what can I say.
Marcy: [Silence]
Mom: Okay, so I get the venti non-fat, sugar free caramel latte with 10 splendas. Right? And they won't laugh?
Marcy: Oh they'll laugh alright but not to your face. Don't worry about it – just order what you want. Okay?
Mom: Okay. Thanks!
Marcy: Sure. Gotta run. Talk to you later.
Mom: Okay. Love you.
Marcy: I love you too.
[Phone is hung up. 1 minute later, phone rings again]
Marcy: Hi Dad.
Dad: Hi there. Do you have a minute.
Marcy: Sure. What's up?
Dad: Mom's going to Starbucks and offered to get me a drink but I don't know what to get. What would I like there?
Marcy: [Sigh]. Yeah, Mom called me and asked me the same thing.
Dad: [Laughing] Really? Well, you know I just never know what I like there.
Marcy: You like the double chocolate chip frappuccino blended crème.
Dad: [pausing] Could you call your Mom and tell her what to get me?
Marcy: Yes.
Dad: Thanks – I just can never remember what to get.
Marcy: Sure. Gotta run so I can call her.
Dad: Okay, thanks.
Marcy: Sure.
[Hang up phone. Dials.]
Mom: Hi honed. Did your dad get ahold of you?
Marcy: Yep, that's why I'm calling. Do you have a pen?
Mom: Somewhere here. I'm driving.
Marcy: Do you want to call me back when you are not?
Mom: No hold on. Okay.
Marcy: He'll take a venti double chocolate
Mom: Slow down!
Marcy: Okay, he'll take a venti … double … chocolate …. Chip …. Frappuccino.
Mom: A what?
Marcy: Frappuccino.
Mom: Is that the blended thing that tastes like ice cream?
Marcy: Yes.
Mom: Okay.
Marcy: I have to go.
Mom: Okay. Thanks.
When I asked later if they enjoyed their Starbucks, Mom indicated she was late leaving her meeting and was not able to go afterall. See – they need an age limit or a this is what to order card.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Lenten Devotional...February 18th
I Mean, Look What Happened!
Psalm 128
Quinn G. Caldwell
Fear God, and everything will be perfect. Love God, and nothing bad will ever happen to you. Simple! Except, of course, that every one of us knows it doesn't work that way, that good people and bad things happen to each other. The Psalm is gorgeous, but the theology seems simplistic, too easy, too naive.
I mean, look what happened to Jesus! He surely feared the Lord, surely walked in all God's ways. And they crucified him! So much for "it shall go well with you."
Then again, even while he was on the cross, he did keep praying to God. Even when the worst of things happened to the best of people, he did keep his faith in God. And in the end, Jesus was resurrected. So maybe the Psalm isn't as much about direct cause-and-effect relationships as it is about hope. Maybe it's not so much a prediction of exactly how things go as it is a description of how life with God feels. Maybe it's not about being a realist but about refusing to lose hope in a hopeless situation. Maybe being a Christian is about believing that life with God will be good in the end, even if life now isn't. I mean, look what happened to Jesus!
Prayer: God, grant me wisdom enough to praise you even when it doesn't make sense, strength enough to follow you down every path, and joy enough to sing your praises even in adversity. Amen.
Psalm 128
Quinn G. Caldwell
Fear God, and everything will be perfect. Love God, and nothing bad will ever happen to you. Simple! Except, of course, that every one of us knows it doesn't work that way, that good people and bad things happen to each other. The Psalm is gorgeous, but the theology seems simplistic, too easy, too naive.
I mean, look what happened to Jesus! He surely feared the Lord, surely walked in all God's ways. And they crucified him! So much for "it shall go well with you."
Then again, even while he was on the cross, he did keep praying to God. Even when the worst of things happened to the best of people, he did keep his faith in God. And in the end, Jesus was resurrected. So maybe the Psalm isn't as much about direct cause-and-effect relationships as it is about hope. Maybe it's not so much a prediction of exactly how things go as it is a description of how life with God feels. Maybe it's not about being a realist but about refusing to lose hope in a hopeless situation. Maybe being a Christian is about believing that life with God will be good in the end, even if life now isn't. I mean, look what happened to Jesus!
Prayer: God, grant me wisdom enough to praise you even when it doesn't make sense, strength enough to follow you down every path, and joy enough to sing your praises even in adversity. Amen.
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Another day off!!
I have a three day weekend..woohoo!!!!
Thanks to President's Day. I had thought about going into work but then I decided to have another lazy day. I'm liking those!! ;-)
Thanks to President's Day. I had thought about going into work but then I decided to have another lazy day. I'm liking those!! ;-)
Lenten Devotional
Way to Go!
Genesis 12:1-4a
William Green
The Lord tells Abram (later Abraham) to go... God knows where. "To a land that I will show you." There "you will be a blessing"--or, rather, in the original Hebrew he's given a command: "Be you a blessing." His example and influence are to be for the good of the whole world. And so Abram set out, not knowing where he was going--and not at all sure of himself, as we soon see.
We have come to associate faith with self-confidence and a good sense of direction, as though it were a prayer-mounted GPS. Instead, it's a way to go amid uncertainty and self-doubt when our direction is unclear and apprehension can run high, as with Abram.
God can't steer a parked car. Moving ahead in faith doesn't mean having a map and knowing the way. It means getting unstuck. Once we start moving, sometimes simply going out on our best hunch, we will be shown where we're meant to go and how to be a blessing, to others and ourselves, too.
Prayer: Almighty and merciful God, inspire in me the trust of Abram. Grant me the assurance that amid all I don't know, you go with me, showing me the way in the spirit of Christ. Amen.
Genesis 12:1-4a
William Green
The Lord tells Abram (later Abraham) to go... God knows where. "To a land that I will show you." There "you will be a blessing"--or, rather, in the original Hebrew he's given a command: "Be you a blessing." His example and influence are to be for the good of the whole world. And so Abram set out, not knowing where he was going--and not at all sure of himself, as we soon see.
We have come to associate faith with self-confidence and a good sense of direction, as though it were a prayer-mounted GPS. Instead, it's a way to go amid uncertainty and self-doubt when our direction is unclear and apprehension can run high, as with Abram.
God can't steer a parked car. Moving ahead in faith doesn't mean having a map and knowing the way. It means getting unstuck. Once we start moving, sometimes simply going out on our best hunch, we will be shown where we're meant to go and how to be a blessing, to others and ourselves, too.
Prayer: Almighty and merciful God, inspire in me the trust of Abram. Grant me the assurance that amid all I don't know, you go with me, showing me the way in the spirit of Christ. Amen.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Lenten Devotional...
The Tie That Binds
Luke 7:1-10
William Green
It is easier to think of a widow and her meager offering (Mark 12:41-44) as an example of faith than anything coming from an agent of oppression--like a centurion in service to Rome. It is easier to look at those who seem to know and serve Jesus best than to newcomers or outsiders.
Here as elsewhere the idea of difference and diversity is appealing, just as hot dogs are a nice break from sushi. One of the most popular television commercials of all time was the 1971 Coca-Cola ad that had all different kinds of people on a mountain-top singing about how they'd "like to teach the world to sing in perfect harmony." Not so popular, no doubt, would have been an ad about teaching the world how to argue. Harmony and tolerance are not the same as diversity and respect. Difference is not simply a matter for resolution but relationship.
Different from the disciples though he was, the centurion could relate to Jesus and Jesus to him. "I also am a man set under authority." The centurion knew that Jesus didn't have to appear in person and only had to say so and the servant would be healed. Amazed, Jesus declared, "Not even in Israel have I found such faith."
What inspires healing and respect, and draws us together amid difference, is the overriding authority of God's love.
Prayer: God of us all, may I look again at what I find strange or different and find your healing love in the spirit of Christ. Amen.
Luke 7:1-10
William Green
It is easier to think of a widow and her meager offering (Mark 12:41-44) as an example of faith than anything coming from an agent of oppression--like a centurion in service to Rome. It is easier to look at those who seem to know and serve Jesus best than to newcomers or outsiders.
Here as elsewhere the idea of difference and diversity is appealing, just as hot dogs are a nice break from sushi. One of the most popular television commercials of all time was the 1971 Coca-Cola ad that had all different kinds of people on a mountain-top singing about how they'd "like to teach the world to sing in perfect harmony." Not so popular, no doubt, would have been an ad about teaching the world how to argue. Harmony and tolerance are not the same as diversity and respect. Difference is not simply a matter for resolution but relationship.
Different from the disciples though he was, the centurion could relate to Jesus and Jesus to him. "I also am a man set under authority." The centurion knew that Jesus didn't have to appear in person and only had to say so and the servant would be healed. Amazed, Jesus declared, "Not even in Israel have I found such faith."
What inspires healing and respect, and draws us together amid difference, is the overriding authority of God's love.
Prayer: God of us all, may I look again at what I find strange or different and find your healing love in the spirit of Christ. Amen.
Friday, February 15, 2008
Lenten Devotional...Feb 15
From Where Does Our Help Come?
Psalm 121
Martin B. Copenhaver
This beloved psalm is a psalm of pilgrimage. It reflects the thoughts of the pilgrim as he travels to a holy place. At the time it was written, pilgrimages were often dangerous journeys. It was not uncommon for pilgrims to be attacked or robbed along the road, so the pilgrims often would be accompanied by sentries who would perch in the high ground and give warning of any approaching danger. Perhaps the pilgrim who wrote this psalm is looking up into the hills and sees one of the sentries, which prompts the question, "From where will my help come?" And the answer is a resounding statement of faith: "My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth." Contrary to what politicians might claim or what the recruiting ads for the military might promise, ultimately we cannot be safeguarded by any human force. So our ultimate confidence cannot be placed in what other human beings might do to help and protect us. Rather, our help comes from the God who "will neither slumber nor sleep," the God who stands in faithful vigil over our lives, watching over us in every circumstance.
Prayer: Dear God, please stand vigil over my life. Watch over me in ways that only you can, particularly as I face danger or uncertainty. Amen
Psalm 121
Martin B. Copenhaver
This beloved psalm is a psalm of pilgrimage. It reflects the thoughts of the pilgrim as he travels to a holy place. At the time it was written, pilgrimages were often dangerous journeys. It was not uncommon for pilgrims to be attacked or robbed along the road, so the pilgrims often would be accompanied by sentries who would perch in the high ground and give warning of any approaching danger. Perhaps the pilgrim who wrote this psalm is looking up into the hills and sees one of the sentries, which prompts the question, "From where will my help come?" And the answer is a resounding statement of faith: "My help comes from the Lord who made heaven and earth." Contrary to what politicians might claim or what the recruiting ads for the military might promise, ultimately we cannot be safeguarded by any human force. So our ultimate confidence cannot be placed in what other human beings might do to help and protect us. Rather, our help comes from the God who "will neither slumber nor sleep," the God who stands in faithful vigil over our lives, watching over us in every circumstance.
Prayer: Dear God, please stand vigil over my life. Watch over me in ways that only you can, particularly as I face danger or uncertainty. Amen
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Quiet Day
I've never been real gung-ho on Valentine's Day. We had a nice quiet evening...we were going to cook dinner together, but ordering out seemed just as good, if not better! :)
Lit a fire and watched tv...nice relaxing evening!
Lit a fire and watched tv...nice relaxing evening!
Lenten Devotional
Let Me Be Your Valentine
2 Timothy 1:3-7
Ron Buford
It may seem strange for a church publication to speak of Valentine's Day in the midst of Lent, but then again, why not? Is not all love God's gift to be celebrated?
Paul probably knew that this would be his last letter to Timothy, writing as he was awaiting execution for preaching about Jesus. Paul tenderly calls Timothy to continue the work--despite the risks.
The Rev. Martin Luther King, Sr. and Dr. Benjamin Mays, then president of Morehouse College, tried to dissuade the younger King from going back to the Montgomery boycott because of violent threats. King the younger heard but lovingly rejected their requests, setting his face toward Montgomery--despite the risks.
King would not come face to face with death this time, but he would come face to face with hatred, resistance. Armed with the demonstrable love of his dad and Dr. Mays, he had unbending resolve. Dr. Mays, himself a son of freed slaves, would later have to make good on a mutual promise he and Martin Luther King, Jr. made to each other--the promise of the longest survivor to deliver the other's eulogy.
Jesus said, "There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friend." Now that's love! Happy Valentine's Day!
Prayer: Gracious God, let no one and nothing turn me away from you, from your clear purpose for my life. May I never, ever give up - despite risk, persecution, setback, and past failure. Amen.
2 Timothy 1:3-7
Ron Buford
It may seem strange for a church publication to speak of Valentine's Day in the midst of Lent, but then again, why not? Is not all love God's gift to be celebrated?
Paul probably knew that this would be his last letter to Timothy, writing as he was awaiting execution for preaching about Jesus. Paul tenderly calls Timothy to continue the work--despite the risks.
The Rev. Martin Luther King, Sr. and Dr. Benjamin Mays, then president of Morehouse College, tried to dissuade the younger King from going back to the Montgomery boycott because of violent threats. King the younger heard but lovingly rejected their requests, setting his face toward Montgomery--despite the risks.
King would not come face to face with death this time, but he would come face to face with hatred, resistance. Armed with the demonstrable love of his dad and Dr. Mays, he had unbending resolve. Dr. Mays, himself a son of freed slaves, would later have to make good on a mutual promise he and Martin Luther King, Jr. made to each other--the promise of the longest survivor to deliver the other's eulogy.
Jesus said, "There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friend." Now that's love! Happy Valentine's Day!
Prayer: Gracious God, let no one and nothing turn me away from you, from your clear purpose for my life. May I never, ever give up - despite risk, persecution, setback, and past failure. Amen.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Lenten Devotional...February 13th
The Little Ones
Matthew 18: 10 - 14
Anthony B. Robinson
"Take care that you do not despise one of these little ones; for I tell you, in heaven their angels continually see the face of the Father. . ." Who are the little ones?
Children? New Christians? The poor? The unsophisticated? The disabled or disfigured? The little ones have few, if any, influential friends or allies in the centers of earthly power, yet it turns out that these same little ones have influential friends, angels even, in high places not of this world, in the presence of God. The celebrated founder of the Catholic Worker movement, Dorothy Day, was speaking with a homeless man in the kitchen as the night wore on. An impatient reporter, eager to interview Day, paced outside, indicating in every way he could that he was tired of waiting and that he took precedence over Day's homeless guest. When Dorothy Day had finished her conversation with the man who was homeless, she turned to the reporter and asked, "With which of us did you wish to speak?"
Prayer: Holy One, help me to know that those who appear to have no connections, status or clout, are in truth deeply connected, connected to You. Amen.
Matthew 18: 10 - 14
Anthony B. Robinson
"Take care that you do not despise one of these little ones; for I tell you, in heaven their angels continually see the face of the Father. . ." Who are the little ones?
Children? New Christians? The poor? The unsophisticated? The disabled or disfigured? The little ones have few, if any, influential friends or allies in the centers of earthly power, yet it turns out that these same little ones have influential friends, angels even, in high places not of this world, in the presence of God. The celebrated founder of the Catholic Worker movement, Dorothy Day, was speaking with a homeless man in the kitchen as the night wore on. An impatient reporter, eager to interview Day, paced outside, indicating in every way he could that he was tired of waiting and that he took precedence over Day's homeless guest. When Dorothy Day had finished her conversation with the man who was homeless, she turned to the reporter and asked, "With which of us did you wish to speak?"
Prayer: Holy One, help me to know that those who appear to have no connections, status or clout, are in truth deeply connected, connected to You. Amen.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Lenten Devotional...
Boldly to the Throne of Grace
Hebrews 4: 14 – 5:10
Donna Schaper
Are you a dot com or a dot org? Are you a not for profit or a for profit? Are you somebody who takes or gives?
The writer to the Hebrews wants us to approach the throne of grace with boldness. Which way is best if we try to do that? Do we make a profit or create a loss? Do we diminish or do we add value?
What if the answer to all these seemingly opposed questions was "yes"?
Boldness going to the throne of grace means you know you were really invited. The throne has asked you to come and wants you there. It wants you to discern when to make a profit and when to take a loss. It wants you to both take (you were invited after all) and to give (perhaps you want to bring a guest). Grace surely has no time for ignoring the invitations. Because we are invited so surely to the throne of grace, it is appropriate that we go. There we both receive and give--and both are our RSVP.
Prayer: When I answer “yes” to the invitation to go to the throne of grace, let me answer with vigor. Amen
Hebrews 4: 14 – 5:10
Donna Schaper
Are you a dot com or a dot org? Are you a not for profit or a for profit? Are you somebody who takes or gives?
The writer to the Hebrews wants us to approach the throne of grace with boldness. Which way is best if we try to do that? Do we make a profit or create a loss? Do we diminish or do we add value?
What if the answer to all these seemingly opposed questions was "yes"?
Boldness going to the throne of grace means you know you were really invited. The throne has asked you to come and wants you there. It wants you to discern when to make a profit and when to take a loss. It wants you to both take (you were invited after all) and to give (perhaps you want to bring a guest). Grace surely has no time for ignoring the invitations. Because we are invited so surely to the throne of grace, it is appropriate that we go. There we both receive and give--and both are our RSVP.
Prayer: When I answer “yes” to the invitation to go to the throne of grace, let me answer with vigor. Amen
Monday, February 11, 2008
Took a pass
on the Auto Show...we're both enjoying a lazy day around the house. I wasn't feeling the greatest this morning (something I ate didn't agree with me) plus with the really cold temps and snow, I wasn't looking forward to going. Oh well...there is always next year!
PLUS...we also spent the day with dealing with a flat tire...MAJOR pain...ugh. So glad we didn't get into the city and then had that problem!!
PLUS...we also spent the day with dealing with a flat tire...MAJOR pain...ugh. So glad we didn't get into the city and then had that problem!!
Lenten Devotional...2/11
A Voice in the Desert
I Kings 19:1-8
David M. Powers
Elijah was fleeing for his life, running as far away as he could into the desert. With a price on his head, he was paying the price for being bold. But way out there, with nobody for miles around, things looked bleak. Elijah began to indulge in a first-class pity party—"I might as well be dead"—when suddenly he felt a tug on his sleeve. Then came a voice: "Get up and eat."
This season of Lent is about the desert. At the least, Lent invites us to face the metaphorical wilderness of painful experiences, those times when you or I are stuck with a sense of abandonment, loss of direction, heartache, emptiness. Lent is about who we are when there's nobody around to prop us up.
Elijah discovered that even in the most parched and painful place God is already there, saying, perhaps through a loving, totally unexpected voice, "Take care of yourself. I care about you."
Prayer: When my days feel too hard, remind me, O God, by a touch or a whisper, that you are really with me, still speaking and still loving. Amen.
I Kings 19:1-8
David M. Powers
Elijah was fleeing for his life, running as far away as he could into the desert. With a price on his head, he was paying the price for being bold. But way out there, with nobody for miles around, things looked bleak. Elijah began to indulge in a first-class pity party—"I might as well be dead"—when suddenly he felt a tug on his sleeve. Then came a voice: "Get up and eat."
This season of Lent is about the desert. At the least, Lent invites us to face the metaphorical wilderness of painful experiences, those times when you or I are stuck with a sense of abandonment, loss of direction, heartache, emptiness. Lent is about who we are when there's nobody around to prop us up.
Elijah discovered that even in the most parched and painful place God is already there, saying, perhaps through a loving, totally unexpected voice, "Take care of yourself. I care about you."
Prayer: When my days feel too hard, remind me, O God, by a touch or a whisper, that you are really with me, still speaking and still loving. Amen.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Lenten Devotional...Feb 10
Temptation Strikes the Best of Us
Matthew 4:1-11
Lillian Daniel
Temptation strikes the best of us, truly. Even Jesus was tempted in the wilderness by the devil. He had been fasting, so what do you think the devil came up with? Food, of course, and, later, earthly power. The devil knew what Jesus would be tempted by.
The UCC is a church accustomed to taking on and debating the hard questions about the key issues of our day. Yet in the personal moral struggles that we face in our day-to-day lives, we may not be as bold.
There are two situations that lead to doing the wrong thing. The first is perplexity, when we truly do not know which is the right course to take. The second situation is temptation. We're simply tempted by something we want so much that we are willing to do the wrong thing to get it.
We human beings don't want to admit that we are in that second category of mere temptation. So what do we do? We mistake temptation for perplexity. We say we had no idea what to do, or what we were doing, when really we were just tempted.
Prayer: Dear Lord, when I am faced with an important moral decision, help me to know the difference between perplexity and temptation. When I truly do not know what to do, guide me. And when I am merely tempted, guide me with a little firmer hand, please, so that I don't fool myself. Amen.
Matthew 4:1-11
Lillian Daniel
Temptation strikes the best of us, truly. Even Jesus was tempted in the wilderness by the devil. He had been fasting, so what do you think the devil came up with? Food, of course, and, later, earthly power. The devil knew what Jesus would be tempted by.
The UCC is a church accustomed to taking on and debating the hard questions about the key issues of our day. Yet in the personal moral struggles that we face in our day-to-day lives, we may not be as bold.
There are two situations that lead to doing the wrong thing. The first is perplexity, when we truly do not know which is the right course to take. The second situation is temptation. We're simply tempted by something we want so much that we are willing to do the wrong thing to get it.
We human beings don't want to admit that we are in that second category of mere temptation. So what do we do? We mistake temptation for perplexity. We say we had no idea what to do, or what we were doing, when really we were just tempted.
Prayer: Dear Lord, when I am faced with an important moral decision, help me to know the difference between perplexity and temptation. When I truly do not know what to do, guide me. And when I am merely tempted, guide me with a little firmer hand, please, so that I don't fool myself. Amen.
Saturday, February 09, 2008
Lenten Devotional - Day 4
Just Start
Isaiah 58:1-12
Quinn G. Caldwell
Many of us will fast this Lent. We will give up chocolate or red meat or American Idol, so that when we feel the craving for these things, we will be reminded of God's craving for us. Isaiah, writing long before the first Lent, says that while this kind of fast is OK, it just isn't enough.
He suggests a different kind of fast: one from all injustice and oppression. Oh, sure, Isaiah! No problem. For most of us, the only injustice we're part of is systemic: it's in the institutions and cities and countries where we live. How are we supposed to give up that? Move to Antarctica?
It's not simple, but maybe we can just start. Maybe there's a way to take a "journey-of-a-thousand-miles-begins-with-a-single-step" approach. What if we began with fasting from just one piece of injustice: from non-fairly-traded coffee, from stores that don't compensate their workers fairly, from driving when public transportation is available? What if we just start?
What change might we create in the world, or in ourselves, with such small steps? Would it be enough? For Isaiah, who is known for being unyielding, probably not, frankly. But for God, who is known for being merciful and loving? Almost definitely.
Prayer: Dear God, I want to be close to you. Save me from easy fasts and from believing I have to save the whole world. Teach me the fast you desire, and give me the strength to just start. Amen.
Isaiah 58:1-12
Quinn G. Caldwell
Many of us will fast this Lent. We will give up chocolate or red meat or American Idol, so that when we feel the craving for these things, we will be reminded of God's craving for us. Isaiah, writing long before the first Lent, says that while this kind of fast is OK, it just isn't enough.
He suggests a different kind of fast: one from all injustice and oppression. Oh, sure, Isaiah! No problem. For most of us, the only injustice we're part of is systemic: it's in the institutions and cities and countries where we live. How are we supposed to give up that? Move to Antarctica?
It's not simple, but maybe we can just start. Maybe there's a way to take a "journey-of-a-thousand-miles-begins-with-a-single-step" approach. What if we began with fasting from just one piece of injustice: from non-fairly-traded coffee, from stores that don't compensate their workers fairly, from driving when public transportation is available? What if we just start?
What change might we create in the world, or in ourselves, with such small steps? Would it be enough? For Isaiah, who is known for being unyielding, probably not, frankly. But for God, who is known for being merciful and loving? Almost definitely.
Prayer: Dear God, I want to be close to you. Save me from easy fasts and from believing I have to save the whole world. Teach me the fast you desire, and give me the strength to just start. Amen.
Friday, February 08, 2008
TGIF
What a crazy week...getting back on my feet after being sick all of last week. Another crazy snowstorm that dumped another 8-10 inches and allowed us to have a half day at work!
Tomorrow is weigh in day and then I'm headed into work to help get others caught up. In the evening, celebrating with Marcy for her birthday dinner!
Sunday, is our Sunday to play bells at church and then probably just relaxing for the rest of the day! Monday is a VACATION DAY...as dh and I are headed down to the Chicago Auto Show!!
Tomorrow is weigh in day and then I'm headed into work to help get others caught up. In the evening, celebrating with Marcy for her birthday dinner!
Sunday, is our Sunday to play bells at church and then probably just relaxing for the rest of the day! Monday is a VACATION DAY...as dh and I are headed down to the Chicago Auto Show!!
Lenten Devotional..>Day Three
Hope When It's Hard
Psalm 51
William Green
Martin Luther said, "Who fears hell runs toward it." We have to face down our fears and let them lead to confidence in the saving power of God. "Give me... the gladness of your rescue and with a noble spirit sustain me," pleads the psalmist (v. 12, Robert Alter's translation).
The real problem is not fear. We have reasons to worry. For all that is good and makes us happy, the world is an alarming place. The problem is that it's hard to tell hard truth. We are broken people. We are often at odds with God, each other, and ourselves. One way or another we know this. So we are afraid and running toward different kinds of hell. We need not guidance but redemption--not therapy but grace.
God transforms "a broken, crushed heart." (v. 17) Love is naïve and faith beside the point if there's nothing that breaks our heart--from all that tears the world apart and makes life impossible for millions of families and children, to disturbing issues right at home and on the job that seem to have no resolution. We can be realistic about what we face because that's exactly where God's love finds us, restoring hope and confidence when all seemed lost.
Prayer: Gracious God, in confessing all that breaks my heart and makes me afraid, may I find the greatness of your grace and the realism of your love. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Psalm 51
William Green
Martin Luther said, "Who fears hell runs toward it." We have to face down our fears and let them lead to confidence in the saving power of God. "Give me... the gladness of your rescue and with a noble spirit sustain me," pleads the psalmist (v. 12, Robert Alter's translation).
The real problem is not fear. We have reasons to worry. For all that is good and makes us happy, the world is an alarming place. The problem is that it's hard to tell hard truth. We are broken people. We are often at odds with God, each other, and ourselves. One way or another we know this. So we are afraid and running toward different kinds of hell. We need not guidance but redemption--not therapy but grace.
God transforms "a broken, crushed heart." (v. 17) Love is naïve and faith beside the point if there's nothing that breaks our heart--from all that tears the world apart and makes life impossible for millions of families and children, to disturbing issues right at home and on the job that seem to have no resolution. We can be realistic about what we face because that's exactly where God's love finds us, restoring hope and confidence when all seemed lost.
Prayer: Gracious God, in confessing all that breaks my heart and makes me afraid, may I find the greatness of your grace and the realism of your love. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Lenten Devotional...Day Two
Seeing What We Are
Jonah 3:1-10
William Green
What do we do with what we don't like about ourselves? Criticize others for the same thing? How much of what disturbs us is really something we can't accept about ourselves? Think of what makes us angry, impatient, or afraid, or times we don't feel loved and appreciated.
During Lent we're called to repentance in preparation for the new life we celebrate at Easter. Repentance is not just remorse but acceptance and turning toward the more complete life God makes possible. This begins with having compassion for all those unwanted parts of ourselves, all those imperfections that we don't even want to look at. A clenched fist cannot give or receive a gift, and a clenched psyche cannot grow.
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name" (Psalm 103:1). "All" includes more than we're comfortable accepting. This, too, is taken into God's love--"the night is as bright as the day" (Psalm 139:12).
For Jonah "all" gets reflected in the arch-enemy of God's people, the Ninevites, who Jonah hates and God ends up accepting. Those "pagans" prove more capable of repentance--as does God himself who repents and changes his mind--than does Jonah, who can't accept and come to terms with his anger. And what about us?
Prayer: Your judgment is mercy, O God. Knowing this may I more completely accept myself and others, serving you in the spirit of Christ. Amen.
Jonah 3:1-10
William Green
What do we do with what we don't like about ourselves? Criticize others for the same thing? How much of what disturbs us is really something we can't accept about ourselves? Think of what makes us angry, impatient, or afraid, or times we don't feel loved and appreciated.
During Lent we're called to repentance in preparation for the new life we celebrate at Easter. Repentance is not just remorse but acceptance and turning toward the more complete life God makes possible. This begins with having compassion for all those unwanted parts of ourselves, all those imperfections that we don't even want to look at. A clenched fist cannot give or receive a gift, and a clenched psyche cannot grow.
"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name" (Psalm 103:1). "All" includes more than we're comfortable accepting. This, too, is taken into God's love--"the night is as bright as the day" (Psalm 139:12).
For Jonah "all" gets reflected in the arch-enemy of God's people, the Ninevites, who Jonah hates and God ends up accepting. Those "pagans" prove more capable of repentance--as does God himself who repents and changes his mind--than does Jonah, who can't accept and come to terms with his anger. And what about us?
Prayer: Your judgment is mercy, O God. Knowing this may I more completely accept myself and others, serving you in the spirit of Christ. Amen.
Lenten Devotional...Day One
Since are now in the season of Lent, I thought that I would share the daily devotionals that are being sent to me!
Where Your Treasure Is
Matthew 6:16-21
Martin B. Copenhaver
If we are not careful we might read what Jesus says with a kind of scriptural dyslexia. We might remember him saying, "Where your heart is, there will your treasure be also." That would make ready sense to us because, after all, much of the time our dollars follow our heart's lead. We give to what matters to us. But that is not what Jesus said. Jesus says something more profound and more hopeful than that, affirming that wherever you put your treasure, that is where your heart will end up. To be sure, how we spend our money does reveal something about the kind of people we are. But Jesus seems to affirm that how we spend our money determines the sort of people we become. "Give from the heart," people say. But Jesus speaks of a different dynamic: Give where you want your heart to be, and then let your heart catch up. If you want to care more about the kind of car you drive, buy an expensive one. If you want to care more about property values, remodel your house. If you want to grow in your relationship with God, bring an offering to God. Wherever your treasure is, your heart is bound to follow.
Prayer: Dear God, during this Lenten journey, help me hold on to you so closely that I do not hold on to anything else too closely. Amen.
Where Your Treasure Is
Matthew 6:16-21
Martin B. Copenhaver
If we are not careful we might read what Jesus says with a kind of scriptural dyslexia. We might remember him saying, "Where your heart is, there will your treasure be also." That would make ready sense to us because, after all, much of the time our dollars follow our heart's lead. We give to what matters to us. But that is not what Jesus said. Jesus says something more profound and more hopeful than that, affirming that wherever you put your treasure, that is where your heart will end up. To be sure, how we spend our money does reveal something about the kind of people we are. But Jesus seems to affirm that how we spend our money determines the sort of people we become. "Give from the heart," people say. But Jesus speaks of a different dynamic: Give where you want your heart to be, and then let your heart catch up. If you want to care more about the kind of car you drive, buy an expensive one. If you want to care more about property values, remodel your house. If you want to grow in your relationship with God, bring an offering to God. Wherever your treasure is, your heart is bound to follow.
Prayer: Dear God, during this Lenten journey, help me hold on to you so closely that I do not hold on to anything else too closely. Amen.
Thursday, February 07, 2008
miss america 2008
marcy and i got together to watch the miss american pageant a few weeks back. of course, the night wasn't complete without wearing a princess tiara!!!!
ok, so you had to be there, i guess.
ok, so you had to be there, i guess.
annoying
it's an annoying kind of day when:
- your car is stuck in the snow from yesterday, requiring 4 maintenance men from the apartment complex to help get me out.
- my jeans were soaked because I had to climb my way through snow drifts.
- my pants keep falling down and the undies keep going up!
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Another snow day!!
Ole Man winter dumped another 6-8 inches earlier today. our office closed early...WOOHOO!
I had plans to go to Ash Wednesday service tonight, but we cancelled that as well. I'm sure the good lord will understand that the health and safety of our church members is more important!
I had plans to go to Ash Wednesday service tonight, but we cancelled that as well. I'm sure the good lord will understand that the health and safety of our church members is more important!
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
2 years ago today
Bill's Aunt Mary lost her battle with cancer. She was his godmother, his favorite aunt and I loved her too! At her funeral, they played "When I get where I'm Going" by Brad Paisley and Dolly Parton. That song speaks to me everytime I hear it.
Like a sign from above, they played the song on the radio on my way home tonight.
Loving you and missing you Aunt Mary!
Like a sign from above, they played the song on the radio on my way home tonight.
Loving you and missing you Aunt Mary!
Monday, February 04, 2008
Musical Monday: May I have this Dance?
What was your theme song for your Senior Prom?
Wonderful Tonight, Class of 95 Senior Prom
Wonderful Tonight, Class of 95 Senior Prom
Sunday, February 03, 2008
Super Bowl 2008
Congrats to the Giants for their win! I have to say, I wasn't really into the game this year, but I did want the Patriots to lose only because I can't stand them and their perfect season.
Anyone else watch the game?
Anyone else watch the game?
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Gilmore Girls...
I now own seasons 4-6 on DVD...YEA!!!!
In the spirit of that...here are some funny quotes...
Lorelai - Tell me something happy.
Sookie - I can't make the strawberry shortcake!
Lorelai - Wow you suck at this game!
Rory: CHINESE!! GO. ORDER. NOW!!
Lorelai: Right!! No time for full sentences!!
LORELAI: Enjoy Wisteria Lane, you major drama queen!
Lorelai: There goes my little girl, off to rule the world!
Rory: Paris will be ruling the world, I will be holding the keys.
Lorelai: Wow, you're pretty, you're smart. Now all you need as a drunken relative behind the scenes embarrassing you with every move they make.
Rory: Will you get on that?
Lorelai: I'm two steps ahead of you.
Lorelai: Hey, I have kind of a crazy idea.
Rory: Those are never comforting words coming from you.
In the spirit of that...here are some funny quotes...
Lorelai - Tell me something happy.
Sookie - I can't make the strawberry shortcake!
Lorelai - Wow you suck at this game!
Rory: CHINESE!! GO. ORDER. NOW!!
Lorelai: Right!! No time for full sentences!!
LORELAI: Enjoy Wisteria Lane, you major drama queen!
Lorelai: There goes my little girl, off to rule the world!
Rory: Paris will be ruling the world, I will be holding the keys.
Lorelai: Wow, you're pretty, you're smart. Now all you need as a drunken relative behind the scenes embarrassing you with every move they make.
Rory: Will you get on that?
Lorelai: I'm two steps ahead of you.
Lorelai: Hey, I have kind of a crazy idea.
Rory: Those are never comforting words coming from you.
Friday, February 01, 2008
Applebees...Love the Food, Hate the Carside to Go idea
Because it doesn't work!!
Since I have been feeling so crappy this week, cooking was just not in our cards tonight. So, since Applebees has WW menu, I decided we should do that for dinner. Placed the order over the phone and made my way over there. First off, some MORON parked in the Carside parking only and went inside to eat...then I waited some 15 minutes before I headed inside to find out where my food was. Told the immature high schoolers what my situation was and they just chuckled. I should have asked for the manager right then and there.
Got home and they messed up Bill's order completely...UGH. He ended up calling back to the restaurant and they re-did his meal at no charge plus gave us $10 off for the next time we dine in the restaurant. Yea, we won't be going to that one!
Since I have been feeling so crappy this week, cooking was just not in our cards tonight. So, since Applebees has WW menu, I decided we should do that for dinner. Placed the order over the phone and made my way over there. First off, some MORON parked in the Carside parking only and went inside to eat...then I waited some 15 minutes before I headed inside to find out where my food was. Told the immature high schoolers what my situation was and they just chuckled. I should have asked for the manager right then and there.
Got home and they messed up Bill's order completely...UGH. He ended up calling back to the restaurant and they re-did his meal at no charge plus gave us $10 off for the next time we dine in the restaurant. Yea, we won't be going to that one!
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