Flashlight ... taking one step at a time

King?

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 16:39:00 +0000

You thrill me, LORD, with all you have done for me!

I sing for joy because of what you have done.

O Lord, what great works you do!

And how deep are your thoughts.

Psalm 92:4-5 (NLT)

In a few minutes, Michael Jackson's memorial service will begin. As I was reading this portion of scripture this morning, I couldn't help but compare the words of the Psalmist as written about the LORD, our King and Creator, and what I know will be portrayed on stage for a man dubbed the King of Pop. Many will sing and speak praises about this man who spent his life entertaining people. The crowd will thrill as his life in pictures and music thunders through the Staples Center. Yet, Michael was a tortured man who spent his days under a cloud of mystery and despair. I feel sorry for his children. Having a parent suddenly taken is never easy and these three face a future of uncertainty and curiosity by the public. We live in an age of idols and icons. But is this the kind of person I want my grandgirlies to emulate? No, I want them to worship the King of kings and the Lord of lords and thrill in His presence.

In God We Trust

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 19:16:00 +0000

Only by your power can we push back our enemies; only in your name can we trample our foes. I do not trust in my bow: I do not count on my sword to save me. You are the one who gives us victory over our enemies; you disgrace those who hate us. O God, we give glory to you all day long and constantly praise your name. Psalm 44:5-8 (NLT)

The 4th of July weekend started off with a bang. Normally a quiet news time, the reporters and pundits had their weekend unravel with Sarah Palin's retirement announcement. Today, the North Koreans fired seven missiles with an upraised fist, threatening our safety and security. Adoring fans tie up the Internet in hopes of getting a seat at Michael Jackson's funeral and the city of Los Angeles prepares for the worst. Can't we just have a normal, family, fun-filled 4th of July?

Today our world is both smaller and less safe and we can no longer expect life to be "normal." I have read with interest about the nations of Judah and Israel who discovered that regardless of the number of men, horses, chariots, spears or swords, it was impossible to defeat all of their enemies. They thought they had the best tactics and minds to put together a great offense but they failed. As the Psalmist writes, the kings and generals finally understood—God gave the victory. Change will come when we replace arrogance with humility. It's time for us to humbly bow before our Maker and acknowledge His hand in the life of our Nation.

So Much

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 13:12:00 +0000

Dear children, let’s not merely say that we love each other; let us show the truth by our actions. 1 John 3:18 (NLT)

It was not the first time but this time it made me stop and think when Mark said, "I love you but I don't think you understand how much." My immediate response was, "I love you, too," but in the back of my mind, I wondered about his follow-up comment. Why didn't I understand? How does love express itself?

One of the things I learned as I read The Five Love Languages is each person speaks and hears love differently and it is vital to learn the love language of your spouse if your efforts are going to mean anything. It might be a card with words of affirmation and affection. Or maybe it is getting the Honey-Do list done. Try catching the hand of your honey as you walk down the street or bringing home a small bouquet of flowers. And for some, just sitting down and giving uninterrupted attention and conversation makes the heart of your mate sing.

It takes work to make this happen because we naturally speak to our spouse with our personal love language. The problem occurs when our expressions of love fall flat and he doesn’t get it. He missed all the effort I made and sometimes, even criticizes it. What good is that? In his book, Gary Chapman encourages each person to discover his particular way of expressing love and then talk about it together. If I know that Mark needs to hear "good job" or snagging him and planting a big kiss as he walks through the kitchen then I need to be careful to do it. Bringing home several bags from Nordstrom for him is just not going to make it.

So, pay attention. Does your honey understand how much you love them? Are you speaking their love language?

One more question. Do you have any concept of how much God loves you? He doesn't go half way. In fact, He gave up His son, willingly, for each of us so that we could know Him and be part of His family. And because He made us and knows how we think, He always speaks our love language. How do we show love back to Him? Spend time with Him…worship Him…obey Him…listen to Him…enjoy His presence…tell Him. "Jesus loves me, this I know."

Sea of Men

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 14:23:00 +0000

Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. 1 Peter 3:8-9 (NIV)

I really like our new church. Each season highlights some of its traditions. Over the years I have seen roses passed out to the women on Mother's Day or the mother with the most children honored but our pastor had all the men stand and applaud the women present. His words of encouragement and this visible act of appreciation warmed all the hearts of the women in attendance. Last Sunday, he announced that Father's Day has a different tradition, one started when the church began fifteen years ago. He invited all men – dads, granddads, husbands, men, and boys to the front of the church to kneel down with him in prayer. As the leaders of the home, he wanted to ask for God's guidance and blessing for these men. Pastor got down on his knees behind the pulpit and as he prayed, I'm sure the spirit of God filled that room with glory and hallelujahs. Nothing pleases Him more than to see men bowed before Him, seeking Him, loving Him, desiring to do His will. Tears filled my eyes as I looked over that sea of men kneeling before God, thankful for the roles they play in their families. I heard some knees cracking as they stood to return to their seats but there was also a warmth and camaraderie. Sometimes it is a lonely job but these men knew that God had met them on a Sunday morning in June.

What's for dinner?

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 21:42:00 +0000

Don't worry and ask yourselves, "Will we have anything to eat? Will we have anything to drink? Will we have any clothes to wear?" Only people who don't know God are always worrying about such things. Your Father in heaven knows that you need all of these. But more than anything else, put God's work first and do what he wants. Then the other things will be yours as well. Matthew 6:31-33 (CEV)

Dairy-free, wheat/gluten-free, egg-free, nut-free, seed-free. The words just rolled off the tongue of the nutritionist last week. I felt hit by a tidal wave as I listened to her explain Mark's new elimination/rotation diet for the next six months. I have a degree in home ec so this shouldn't be a big deal but the ramifications of these dietary restrictions seemed overwhelming to both of us. Retirement means many things but menu planning and cooking are not high on my list. Going out to dinner is much more fun. It seems that just when life begins to get comfortable, God initiates a change of plans. Over the past months, I keep learning that He wants me to depend on Him for each detail of my life—even down to what we are going to eat each day.

It is amazing the food options that are now available for those with food sensitivities. I can only imagine how difficult this would have been a few years ago. We are learning options, reading labels, making mistakes but trudging along this new path. Mark is trying new things—some tasty and some not. Good thing he was not a picky eater before all this began. We even have restaurant options. He knows that ultimately, he will feel much better and with this hope, we keep going.

God's plan for us is much the same. He challenges us with new opportunities to grow and trust Him. Sometimes we try to go our own way ending up with a stumble and fall. Other times, the communion with Him is sweet as we walk in the light and He warms our hearts with His love. Whether it is three steps forward and two back, we have the assurance that each step brings us closer to Home.

I will update you on occasion about this new chapter at the Blumbergs. Eat hearty!

Meaningless

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 02:27:00 +0000

The last and final word is this:
Fear God.
Do what he tells you.
Ecclesiastes 12:13 (The Message)

The pomp and circumstance of a Harvard graduation is awesome. It was great to watch Mark's son, Alan, graduate with his Master's degree and complete the journey that he undertook two years ago. Walking around the historic Harvard Yard brought me back to stories that my dad would tell of a semester he spent at Harvard back in 1945 as part of his Navy training. I don't think it has changed much physically in those intervening years but it is now coed, led for the first time by a woman president, and will soon have a greater percentage of women to men. Big changes for an all male school that began in 1636 and only became coed 1999.

I have been reading Ecclesiastes, written by Solomon, the wisest man that ever lived. He spent twelve chapters recounting his life experiences often stating it had all been meaningless. I wondered at his comments since he had it all. Why was it meaningless? As I thought about his view on life, it reminded me of all the young people that had just passed their hardest test and were ready to take on the world. There was a celebratory feeling permeating the campus. You could see it in the smiles of the parents and the joy of the graduates. But, at some point, would they look back and wonder if it had all been worth it?

Solomon sums it up: Fear God and do what he tells you. The choices we make for our career, family, hobbies, or personal growth are meaningless if we don't consider God's purpose for our lives. His final admonition is worthy of great consideration.

A Day to Remember.

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Tue, 26 May 2009 01:39:00 +0000

I day of remembrance, Memorial Day. I am grateful to all who have given lives...some paying the ultimate price...to ensure my freedom. Please enjoy this tribute.

Summer arrived early in Arizona so we are going to escape for a bit. We are off for a couple of weeks, flying coast to coast, to see kids and grandgirlies.

Don't forget that God is good...all the time.

A Charge

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sun, 17 May 2009 23:55:00 +0000

So now, with God as our witness, and in the sight of all Israel—the Lord’s assembly—I give you this charge. Be careful to obey all the commands of the Lord your God, so that you may continue to possess this good land and leave it to your children as a permanent inheritance. 1 Chronicles 28:8 (NLT)

It's birthday weekend. Actually, I'm in favor of birthday month, but I'm not going to complain. My kids have the double trouble of both Mother's Day and my birthday within a week of each other. That could be a big disadvantage but they do a good job of making sure Mom feels loved and appreciated. As the calendar turns over and year 62 hits, I think back on other birthdays. My mom was great at making my day special with small family celebrations rather than many big parties. Even now, my daughter calls to make sure I have all my meals covered with something fun to do…because we always did that.

I endorse family traditions for the stability they add from one generation to another. Having recently read the Old Testament stories from Abraham to David, I noticed that family traits were often passed from one generation to another, even when the patriarch might have preferred to skip a particular one; deception comes to mind when I remember the stories of Jacob and his sons. As a mother and grandmother, I ponder over what I want to pass down to those I love. No one is perfect and even giving it our best shot leaves us vulnerable to failure, at times. However, David's command to his son, Solomon, sums up the best advice–obey all the commands of the Lord your God. Does that sound overwhelming? Maybe, but it is the bottom line and to accomplish it means that we need to be in God's word…reading, meditating, praying, listening, and obeying. Even when the children of Israel blew it, which they often did, God never gave up on them and led them to the Promised Land. This year, my prayer is that my family will stay close to the One who promises blessing and hope for the future...to the third and fourth generation.

The Healer

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Wed, 06 May 2009 17:31:00 +0000

I, the LORD, am your healer.
Exodus 15:26 (NASB)

It was kind of a good news/bad news kind of day. The good news is that the "lesion" is a benign, common, cartilage cyst in the bone. The bad news is that I have the spine of a 76-year-old woman in the body of a 62-year-old with the accompanying deterioration and pain. I am not surprised since my dad suffers from the same kind of thing. Thankfully, God gives us just enough light for the next step because I have no idea what is down the road.

A friend sent me an email yesterday that encouraged me that God is my true healer. She shared with me what she learned about our Healer from a recent class:

"The Hebrew phrase translated "the LORD who heals" is Yahweh Rophe and reveals God's ability to restore, to heal, and to cure, not only in the physical sense but also in the moral and spiritual sense. The Hebrew root verb rapha ("to heal") occurs approximately 70 times in the Old Testament."

"Trusting God does not mean telling God anything. Trusting means relying on God's names and then waiting patiently to see what He will accomplish. Remember, TRUST means Total Reliance Under Stress and Trial. Can God heal? Yes. Will He heal? Yes, He is Yahweh Rophe. The Lord is the Great Physician. But how and when will He heal? We cannot presume to know. Watch and wait to see how He heals. And trust your Yahweh Rophe." Catherine Martin

The definition of trust popped out at me. Stress really shows our true colors and I want mine to always reflect the rainbow colors of His love and promise. I know that God is good all the time.

In the Shadows

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Mon, 04 May 2009 00:03:00 +0000

I lie awake thinking of you,
meditating on you through the night.
Because you are my helper,
I sing for joy in the shadow of your wings.
I cling to you;
your strong right hand holds me securely.
Psalm 63:6-8 (NLT)

The phone rang last week and my world tilted. As I listened to the nurse give me a report on some recent x-rays, all I could hear was the word "lesion" that was found in my right hip. She had no explanation, of course, and suggested that I set up an appointment with my doctor. My mind started racing and immediately latched on to the worst-case scenario. Why do we do that? Mark gently reminded me not to worry but I decided I would rather have my own private pity party first. I mentally struggled with all the "what if's" and fretted most of the evening. As bedtime approached, the fear that sleep would be elusive compounded my anxiety. I am very good at going over and over things in my head when I hit the pillow. But that night, when darkness settled in and threatened to undo me, I started to pray. I know that God is not surprised by any of this yet He lets me whine and moan without condemnation. I prayed for Him to post sentries at the corners of our home and cover us with His protection. Then I returned to the words of the 23rd Psalm—words that have often comforted me in the last months:

Even when I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff
protect and comfort me.

I thought about the rod and staff. Why were they mentioned and what were they used for? As I pondered, I realized the rod was used defensively to protect the sheep from robbers or wild animals. The staff, on the other hand, was used to hook the foot of a stray before it tumbled into trouble. The quiet assurance that my Shepherd is there to catch me either way blurred the sharp edges of my worry and I fell asleep. I was safe in the shadow of His wings. I still have that doctor's appointment this week but I cling to Him for the outcome. No matter what, I am secure in His hands.

Something New

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 20:21:00 +0000

For I am about to do something new.
See, I have already begun! Do you not see it?
I will make a pathway through the wilderness.
I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.
Isaiah 43:19 (NLT)

When the New Year hit, I wondered whether turning over the page of a calendar would make any difference. I was so ready to begin 2009 after a long and difficult 2008. And, once that new calendar was on the wall, I decided that yes, it gives me the opportunity to start over. To have a second chance, a clean slate, a new beginning. Basically, it is narrowed down to one word—hope. There were some days last year when I felt so dry and weary as I struggled in the wilderness of my own dashed hopes and dreams. I wanted to believe that God was working on a way out but I couldn't see it. I learned over the course of those months that my job is to trust and have faith that His plan is moving along at just the right speed. I tend to be quick in my actions so learning to sit back and be patient is challenging. We changed churches in January, one of those new beginnings but not an easy one. I left after that first Sunday service knowing that God was doing a special work in me in this place of worship. Tears of joy and healing often run down my cheeks. I know that God knows my heart's desires and is slowly bringing people and opportunities to my doorstep so that I may serve Him. I am so excited about the possibilities. What's new in your life?

A Busy Week

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 21:08:00 +0000

When I am overwhelmed, you alone know the way I should turn. Psalm 142:3a (NLT)

I love Spring in the desert. After living most of my life in the lushness of California foliage and flowers, my preconceived ideas of living in a basically brown landscape are dashed when the calendar turns over to April. Each cactus blooms with its own particular flower and the desert is awash in color. You have to hurry to catch a picture because they some flowers last only 24 hours before shriveling up. Some days this month, I, too, felt like that cactus flower. Better catch me before I faded for the day. It is amazing to me how three little girls can turn our world upside down in a matter of minutes. We led a whirlwind week of fun in the sun with them as they enjoyed their Easter vacation with us. Swimming at the pool, birthday party for Tori, BBQ, dinners out, shopping, golf cart rides, loading and unloading the dishwasher—there were not many minutes in a day for Nana to just sit. On top of that, we drove to Pasadena to see Dad for the Easter weekend and almost missed church as we dealt with a dead battery. As we all drove off in different directions and returned home, I was a little sad to see the girls leave. It had been a great week. As crazy as my life is these days, I am thankful that my steps are ordered by One who knows what is best for me and keeps me from losing it. The celebration of His resurrection last week reminds me that He is alive. I serve a living God—not one made of wood or stone. He is risen! He is risen, indeed!

Jephthah's Daughter

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 21:58:00 +0000

How much more do I need to say? It would take too long to recount the stories of the faith of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, David, Samuel, and all the prophets. Hebrews 11:32 (NLT)

The record of the men and women of faith in Hebrews 11 inspires me every time I read it. These people faced situations that required purposeful decisions to trust God in unbelievable circumstances. It was often life or death. Finally in the Promised Land, you would think the children of Israel would have finally figured out how to please God. But the book of Judges notes that they continue to disobey and worship other gods until life becomes unbearable and they beg for help. Each time God sends His emissary to clean up the mess. He never lets go of His special people even when they can't seem to get it right. The author of Hebrews 11 recounts the stories of men and women who earned a good reputation because of their faith. He runs out of time and finally lists several more men, including Jephthah. It is an intriguing story of faith with a plot twist at the end that had me scratching my head. As Jephthah returned from battle, his excited daughter ran out to meet him and congratulate him on his great victory. Yet, rather than embracing her and dancing with her, grief overwhelms him and he tears his clothes because of a vow that he had made to the Lord as he entered into battle. This vow is the complicated part of the story but her response is what captured my attention. We never see her complain, even though her life immediately changes and she knows she will never marry or have children. I like feel-good-endings to stories but this one made me stop and ponder. Obviously, God was pleased with both of them because He listed them in His Hall of Fame. Why? They followed directions, gave glory to God, and earned the reputation of a pure heart. How do we respond when life doesn't make sense? Rant? Rave? Question? Sometimes, I find myself doing all three but the longer I walk in His footsteps, the easier it is to say, "Yes, Lord."

Milestones

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 21:47:00 +0000

So teach us to number our days,
that we may present to You a heart of wisdom.
Psalm 90:12 (NASB)

My online dictionary defines milestone as, "an action or event marking a significant change or stage in development." Birthdays and anniversaries are the typical examples when someone mentions milestones. But, I am celebrating a different one today–this blog is my 200th post. Encouraged by Mark, I started blogging three years ago. I thought I wanted to write a book but moving to Arizona usurped my time and energy. Another snag was that I am not a writer but a reader and felt inadequate for the job. Yet, I felt that God had some things He wanted me to say. The task seemed daunting but I decided to go for it. Determined and prayerfully, I finished that first post and then realized, with the prodding of my husband, that I had to get right back at it and write the second. After a few months of blogging, discouragement hit. I made the decision to continue whether anyone else ever read it online or not. It was great discipline to learn how to put thoughts together on a subject, more often than not, to remind ME of God's goodness and faithfulness in my life. However, whenever I check my stat meter, hits from all over the world overwhelm me and I realize that I am just a tool in the hand of God. So let’s celebrate knowing that we are all called to number our days. Blogging may not be your thing, but find an avenue that you can use to glorify Him. My prayer is that all of us will be ready with a heart of wisdom when we come face to face with our Savior.

Key to Life

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 15:12:00 +0000

You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This (He) is the key to your life. Deuteronomy 30:20a (NLT)

I love to watch TV shows where the good guy wins, usually after a series of twists and turns in the plot. I am hooked on "24" for that very reason. As I follow the wanderings of the children of Israel, I notice that as they approach the entrance to the Promised Land, God sits them down for one last lecture. They didn't have a good reputation for remembering things so not only did He tell them but also He had Moses teach them the whole story in son g as a memory tool. We still use that method of teaching and I remember listening to my grandgirlies sing the "A-B-C" song again and again. Yet even as God recounted the story of their journey and His miraculous care to them, He knew they were going to make bad choices and would turn to other gods. As furious as this made Him, He loved them so much that He gave them a key to life. It would be their choice whether to live a life of pain and suffering chasing after other gods or would they choose life and all of its blessing by loving the one true God and obeying His commands. What gods are we chasing today? Wealth? That is probably not the best pursuit in the current economic climate. Position? We have seen what happens when a governor attempts to sell a senate seat. Fame? Ask Mel Gibson what happens when your dirty laundry is aired on the news. But these pursuits are not limited to the rich and famous. We all do it in our own way. It is so easy to start out with noble purposes and then discover that we let the enemy lead us astray. The key to life is a choice. It doesn't just happen but must be willfully lived out each day of our lives. Make it happen! Choose God.

Trust Parade

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 17:50:00 +0000

But even after all he did, you refused to trust the Lord your God…Deuteronomy 1:32 (NLT)

The children of Israel were a stubborn lot. A trip that should have taken eleven days instead took forty years. The verse continues with, "…who goes before you looking for the best places to camp, guiding you with a pillar of fire by night and a pillar of cloud by day." They lost the opportunity to start a new life of freedom because of their fear, bickering, and disobedience. He was there to guide them day and night, yet they still refused to cooperate. And, yes, they suffered the consequences. How many times do we complain to God about the circumstances of our life? As I look back over the last few years, I see the hand of God in so many ways. Whether the months were filled with joy due to a wedding or birth of a new grandgirlie or months of pain and anguish in the shadow of the pit of depression, God held the flashlight on my path so I could see the next step. I don't want my legacy to be that I refused to trust God and failed to make the grand parade into the Promised Land. I want my grandgirlies to know that Nana believed God and had faith and trust in His goodness and guidance. Join me in the Trust Parade…it will be glorious!

New Mercies

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:30:00 +0000

The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases;
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV)

Do you remember this chorus? Long before we had "praise" music, we had choruses. I learned more at camp than any other place and loved singing them around the campfire. Today, this verse brings me back to five years ago. I woke that morning with expectation and joy. My wedding was just in nine days. But a phone call from my fiancé in Tennessee shattered all the dreams and plans we had for the wedding. He called from the emergency room and told me he was having a heart attack. Shock hit first and then action. I called and cancelled all the wedding plans, packed a few clothes, and got on a plane. When I walked into that hospital room, my heart sank. He was gray and wired, tubes everywhere. But, I smiled and eventually, he did, too. Three days later, we walked out of that hospital and were married on the day we planned – only in Tennessee. It was a rush, things were not as we planned but God was faithful and we made it. These last years have not been easy but God is true to his promise. He gives new mercies every morning. Some days I use all mine up by noon but He is always there to hold me, encourage me, and show me His love…and I get a new batch the next day. Thank you, Lord, for your great faithfulness.

Our Path

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 14:26:00 +0000

The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you." Psalm 32:8 (NLT)

I am on a need-to-know basis with God these days. I would prefer to have my life laid out neatly on a piece of paper so that I can plan my day but He doesn’t work that way. His timetable and mine often differ but I know that I can trust Him. I remember when Kate was little, she feared getting lost and would ask me if I had a map in my head when she got in the car. Only when I assured her that I did, would she settle back and enjoy the ride. That same confidence is mine when I trust Him with my life. Repeatedly in Scripture, He talks about our "path" with specific instructions about how to negotiate the daily twists and turns of life. Not only can I count on the clues from His Word, but also He directs people to influence me and circumstances to confirm what He wants me to do. Yet, there are moments when I question and plead with Him for answers, or change, or direction TODAY. His patient answer comes back, "I will advise you and watch over you." Yes, Lord.

Extreme Tabernacle

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 20:34:00 +0000

Whether the cloud stayed above the Tabernacle for two days, a month, or a year, the people of Israel stayed in camp and did not move on. But as soon as it lifted, they broke camp and moved on. Numbers 9:22 (NLT)

Have you ever watched Extreme Makeover: Home Edition? Recently, Tucson experienced the razing and rebuilding of a 3600 square foot home—all done in one week. I used to build houses and can't imagine coordinating the crews to meet that deadline. Even under normal circumstance, I remember how important it was for me to put away the plans, after pouring over them all day, if I wanted a restful night's sleep. I needed time to wind down from the countless details and drawings. As I read the story of the building of the Tabernacle, it struck me that God is a God of detail. He knew exactly what He wanted and gave a list of instructions to Moses about its construction, contents, arrangement, and even the best craftsmen to do the work. (While reading, I tried to visualize the construction plans and realized we use many of the same details when framing a house today.)

But, this was not a one-man or one-week project. Moses was the project manager but all the children of Israel participated. Everyone donated to the project—from precious metals and stones to wood and colored thread—all used for the completion of the intricate patterns and designs. Imagine the excitement of the people as Moses assembled all the pieces and the Tabernacle took shape before their eyes. And think of their wonder as they watched the glory of the LORD fill it with His presence—a cloud by day and a pillar of fire at night. The LORD now had a visible place to dwell in the camp. However, did you notice how God chose to direct His people? If the cloud moved, the people knew it was time to break up camp and follow it. How many times have you asked God about His plans for your life? Wouldn't it be easier if we could look out the window and see the status of the cloud—kinda like looking up the weather on the Internet? No, it is not that simple, but God did not leave us clueless. We have a guide and guidebook in the Holy Spirit and the Bible. He will speak to our heart and mind if we seek Him and listen. We may not see a cloud but we can count on His presence in the stillness of the night, the loneliness of a hospital bed, or the joy of a newborn baby. He promises never to leave us. So get your plans out and study them…for the next step.

Turf War

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 20:52:00 +0000

If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat;
if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head,
and the LORD will reward you.
Proverbs 25:21-22 (NIV)

The other night my daughter called and wanted some advice about a situation going on at the girl's school. As women, we seem to be very good at creating large problems out of small incidents, the proverbial mountains out of molehills, and she was mixed up in one with another mother.

In thinking about the various aspects of the problem, I conceded that mothers become very protective about their children and intimidated if there is a feeling of being taken advantage. It is also easy to make assumptions about another person's life, particularly if things are not going well in our own home. Before you know it, we misconstrue seemingly, simple, innocent gestures or actions resulting in hard feelings and unkind responses.

So how do you handle the elephant in the room? I immediately thought of the phrase "heaping coals of fire" on an enemy's head from today's verse. Not sure about the exact meaning, I decided to do a google search and found some interesting definitions:

In the biblical era, fire was a valuable commodity. Often a person would go to a neighbor and ask for a coal with which to start his fire. This expression means don’t just give him the basic essential. Instead, give him so many coals they are so heavy he has to carry them on his head as was the custom with heavy loads. Thus, we are taught a lesson in helpful generosity.
To heap coals of fire on the head of a foe: To melt down his animosity by deeds of kindness.
It means to treat someone who wrongs you with extra kindness, above and beyond the norm and in spite of whatever they have done to you. It usually shocks the person and points out to them that they have done something wrong.

I found the translation from The Message offered some helpful clues:

If you see your enemy hungry, go buy him lunch;
if he's thirsty, bring him a drink.
Your generosity will surprise him with goodness,
and God will look after you.
Proverbs 25:21-22 (The Message)

So I gave her a few suggestions: Call this mom up and arrange to meet at Starbucks for coffee. Listen rather than talk. Put yourself in the other person's shoes. Offer sympathy and help. She may turn down your offer and probably will never be your BFF, but you will have done your part.

An act of kindness, a simple cup of coffee, may completely turn around the situation. It won't be easy but remember, it's during the hard times that we grow. Whatever the outcome, the verse ends with the promise that He will look after you. This is a win-win situation. Got her number?

God is God

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sun, 01 Feb 2009 21:12:00 +0000

I know that you can do anything,
and no one can stop you.
Job 42:2 (NLT)

Job's story blows me away. Each of us can spin the tale of our lives to include romance, pathos, sorrow, and victory but Job wins the Oscar. I have many questions to ask God some day and we read that Job, also, had a few. He could not figure out why God was treating him with so many trials and indignities. It was so bad that he wished he had never been born and wanted to die. The incessant hammer of the "so-called" advice from his friends was useless…it just made him mad. He scolded these friends for humiliating him and doubting God. Although I am impressed that Job never renounced his faith, I do think pride may have been his Achilles heel. Why? Because when God finally took center stage to respond to him, the majesty and grandeur of our Creator was overwhelming to Job. He realized that all he ever had or was came directly as a gift from the Father. He could control nothing and in the end, he takes back everything he said and repents.

We can rail against God because of our circumstances or we can accept that the God who created thunder, lightning, ice storms, and ocean monsters has also created me with my particular story. I must remember that God is God.

Sit

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 22:59:00 +0000

Then they sat on the ground with him for seven days and nights. No one said a word to Job, for they saw that his suffering was too great for words. Job 2:13 (NLT)

Did you know that the book of Job is one of the oldest books of the Old Testament? In my Read-through-the-Bible-Chronologically commitment, Job has been my assignment for the past few days. After reading Genesis, which records the stories of the Patriarchs ending with Joseph's story of reconciliation and promise, Job's trials jolted me back to reality. The story begins with a jealous Satan taunting God that the only reason that Job feared Him was because of his prosperous life. God decided to allow Satan to test him because He knew Job's character and believed he was a man of integrity. Tragedy ensued and Job lost everything that was dear to him except a bitter wife. He suffered from horrible health issues so that those who knew this well respected man began to slink back in the shadows in embarrassment…except for three "friends." I use that term loosely because their actions and counsel left a lot to be desired. Yet, they started out great. These three guys heard about Job's mess and traveled to his home to comfort him. They quickly assessed his pain and grief and just sat with him for seven days. Words were unnecessary.

I know that in the midst of great pain, there is nothing like someone taking hold of your hands and looking you in the eyes. This simple act of touch conveys volumes of sympathy and empathy without one single word, allowing pent-up emotions to spill out and healing to begin. We are such a fix-it-now society that sitting makes us uncomfortable. We want to do something. But, Job's story illustrates the value of being willing to let go of our ideas and let God do it His way and in His time. Be a friend that reveals God-with-skin-on. Sit.

A Thriller

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Sat, 17 Jan 2009 18:50:00 +0000

The Lord was with him and caused everything he did to succeed. Genesis 39:23b (NLT)

I love to read and one of my favorite fiction genres is action/thrillers. The story of Joseph in Genesis captures my imagination in a similar way. The twists and turns of the plot keep me glued to the story wondering what is going to happen next between the good guys and the bad guys. Typically, the bad guys are unknown to the hero but in this story, they are his brothers. Jealousy, vindictiveness, deceit, and cover up define their actions and as we watch them sell Joseph into slavery, ship him off to a foreign country, and lie to their father. Joseph ends up in Egypt, his problems continue and he lands in jail. What could be a worse fate? And to top it off, his family and fellow prisoners think he is weird because he can interpret dreams. I am sure this chain of events was not on Joseph's "to-do" list. A rational person might question what God had in mind for this young man. However, the story does not end with doubt but with promise. Joseph trusted God and even when his future looked bleak, his good work habits, industriousness, and loyalty brought him positive attention. Eventually even Pharaoh was impressed with the young man and his abilities and appointed him as ruler over the land. Without that authority, when a severe famine hit, he would not have been able to rescue his family. God does not make mistakes.

At times, we may question what is going on around us. Life is not fair. It is too hard. Where is God? We question but we cannot even see around a corner let alone months into the future. God alone is the master of our destiny and all He calls us to do it to trust Him. Joseph did not expect fame, nor did he seek it. But God placed him in a position of power for His honor and glory. I encourage you to read Joseph's story as encouragement for your walk. If you feel all alone, remember, God is in control.

Look Up

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 14:57:00 +0000

And the LORD said to Abram, after Lot had separated from him: “Lift your eyes now and look from the place where you are—northward, southward, eastward, and westward;" Genesis 13:14 (New King James Version)

After the New Year, I chafed to get back to my various activities, especially Bible Study. I was ready to get going on the new study of The Patriarchs with Beth Moore. I have some new ladies in my discussion group and after the first session, while they were still catching their breath, I told them that watching her is like drinking from a fire hose. You just have to hold on…but it is worth it.

While reviewing Abrams story, it occurred to me that life takes time. I get frustrated at the lack of progress on my intended plan for my life. Unforeseen events force me to step back and wait. Illness, death, moving, surgery, distance from family and friends stop me cold. Abram and Lot also had problems and encountered a seemingly insurmountable problem of enough grazing land for their flocks. I am not so sure I would have been as gracious as Abram was but he allowed Lot to choose the best land and he took the other. I wonder if he was worried about finding water in the hilly country that was his portion. But even as Lot took off, God stopped Abram and asked him to look up. He had something better in mind for Abram than the watered plains in the east. Everything as far as the eye could see would belong to Abram but it was necessary for him to separate from Lot before God would implement His plan.

As I sat pondering, I realized that God knows what is going on in my life. Time has no meaning for him…it is my hang-up. He has separated me for His reasons and my part is to stay close to Him so He can show me my inheritance. After He got Abram's attention, He commanded Abram to walk in every direction and claim the land. He does the same to me—keep walking, don't give up, I haven't forgotten you. Look up!

God Will Provide

noreply@blogger.com (Gerry) — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 16:18:00 +0000

So Abraham called that place The LORD Will Provide. And to this day it is said, "On the mountain of the LORD it will be provided." Genesis 22: 14 (NIV)

Imagine the movie scene of Abraham, his arm raised, knife in hand, ready to plunge it into the heart of his only son, Isaac. What could be more dramatic than the sacrifice of your only son? As I read the story in Genesis this morning, I wondered what Abraham was thinking on the three-day journey to the mountain. He certainly did not question God's command, in fact, he got right to it…no dawdling, excuses, or whining. But what was in his mind? Did he question God and want to know why? How many times have I pleaded with God during a difficult time and questioned what was happening to me or those I love? Yet, as they walked together, Abraham knew that this boy was a miracle and that God promised his destiny would be great. If sacrificing Isaac pleased the eternal God, then he would do his part. His birth had already been a miracle, so Abraham did not waver. He did not know how God would do it, he only knew He would. Because his actions revealed his pure, trusting, and devoted heart, God stopped him just before the point of no return. What a perfect name for this place on the mountain, "The LORD Will Provide," because when God called to him, Abraham looked up; he saw the ram, caught for him, ready to offer up to the God that loved him. How like God to give us an encouraging story like this so that we will have confidence during those impossible situations of our lives. All we need to do is look up. He will provide.