October 31
“Trick or treat?” Years ago we didn’t ask we just did tricks. Now children don masks and costumes and demand treats from grownups, like an entitlement.
The fact that All Saints Day follows Halloween is an appropriate reminder to put away the craziness for another year. Otherwise life could become a series of Halloweens with people wearing masks all the time. I know God wants me to take off my mask and get real with Him. No tricks or treats Lord, just living everyday humbly obeying You.
“By humility and the fear of the Lord are riches and honor and life.” (Proverbs 22:4)
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Memory and a Message
October 28
I am struck this day by what a priceless gift memory is. Without memory there would be no knowledge. There would be no Bible. I wouldn't know my own name.
Memory is a wonderful gift and I shouldn't take it lightly. Thank God for it.
Moses warned us of the consequences of forgetting.
“You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day. If you by any means forget the Lord your God, and follow other Gods, and serve them and worship them, I testify against you this day that you shall surely perish.” (Deuteronomy 8:18-19)
I am struck this day by what a priceless gift memory is. Without memory there would be no knowledge. There would be no Bible. I wouldn't know my own name.
Memory is a wonderful gift and I shouldn't take it lightly. Thank God for it.
Moses warned us of the consequences of forgetting.
“You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day. If you by any means forget the Lord your God, and follow other Gods, and serve them and worship them, I testify against you this day that you shall surely perish.” (Deuteronomy 8:18-19)
Redemption Day
October 27
This is redemption day (2004) for the Red Sox who win their first World Series since 1918. Destiny? They were down three games and came back to beat the Yankees then swept St. Louis in the World Series.
Was it because Curt Schilling, wore a cross around his neck pitching or that David Ortiz pointed skyward crossing home plate after each homer. Was it those signs in the stands, “Reverse the Curse,” “We Believe” and “Have Faith.” Hmmm.
“ I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed you can say to this mountain, Move from here to there and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:20)
This is redemption day (2004) for the Red Sox who win their first World Series since 1918. Destiny? They were down three games and came back to beat the Yankees then swept St. Louis in the World Series.
Was it because Curt Schilling, wore a cross around his neck pitching or that David Ortiz pointed skyward crossing home plate after each homer. Was it those signs in the stands, “Reverse the Curse,” “We Believe” and “Have Faith.” Hmmm.
“ I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed you can say to this mountain, Move from here to there and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” (Matthew 17:20)
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Birthday Present
October 26
This is Joy’s birthday. Friends drive us to a surprise gift. The car slows, then we see. Gads! It is a glider. The pilot is dressed in jeans and a plaid shirt. “Nothing to worry about,” he smiles, “the leaves are in full color.” We squeeze into one rear seat and the pilot closes the canopy. “We are in God’s hands now,” I whisper. The noise of the wind is loud. I thought gliding would be quiet. Joy gets her wish for a bird’s view of the countryside. We thoroughly enjoy ourselves. I’m just thankful the surprise wasn’t hang gliding.
“Give all your worries to God for He cares what happens to you.” (2Peter 5:7 NLT)
PS This year for her birthday took her to the Holy Land Experience..the one in Orlando,Fl.Worth seeing if you haven't been. The reenactments are poignant.
This is Joy’s birthday. Friends drive us to a surprise gift. The car slows, then we see. Gads! It is a glider. The pilot is dressed in jeans and a plaid shirt. “Nothing to worry about,” he smiles, “the leaves are in full color.” We squeeze into one rear seat and the pilot closes the canopy. “We are in God’s hands now,” I whisper. The noise of the wind is loud. I thought gliding would be quiet. Joy gets her wish for a bird’s view of the countryside. We thoroughly enjoy ourselves. I’m just thankful the surprise wasn’t hang gliding.
“Give all your worries to God for He cares what happens to you.” (2Peter 5:7 NLT)
PS This year for her birthday took her to the Holy Land Experience..the one in Orlando,Fl.Worth seeing if you haven't been. The reenactments are poignant.
Mario and my Boys
October 25
Mario learned to play soccer as a boy in Italy. He coached my sons in beginning soccer, stressing the fundamentals and teamwork. During a game there was a break away. My Robbie (10) was back, his brother Steve (9) was goalie. They met the threat, legs went every which way and Rob kicked the ball right past Steve into his own goal.The booming voice of Mario rang across the field, "It's OK Robbie, even Pele' scored against himself.” He was God's aroma to my young boys that day.
"Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God." (Mark 10:14)
Mario learned to play soccer as a boy in Italy. He coached my sons in beginning soccer, stressing the fundamentals and teamwork. During a game there was a break away. My Robbie (10) was back, his brother Steve (9) was goalie. They met the threat, legs went every which way and Rob kicked the ball right past Steve into his own goal.The booming voice of Mario rang across the field, "It's OK Robbie, even Pele' scored against himself.” He was God's aroma to my young boys that day.
"Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God." (Mark 10:14)
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Dave from the Project
October 24
His mom raised him and five siblings in a housing project. At 13 Big Brothers matched him with Bob,19. who encouraged Dave to finish school and go to college. After college Bob offered Dave a job at the TV station where he worked.
Today, on his own, Dave is literally helping people around the world become successful in business. One of those people is Bob. Accepting an award Dave thanked God, his Mom, and Bob. "To succeed, work hard and pray,” he says.
"The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it."
(Proverbs 10:22)
His mom raised him and five siblings in a housing project. At 13 Big Brothers matched him with Bob,19. who encouraged Dave to finish school and go to college. After college Bob offered Dave a job at the TV station where he worked.
Today, on his own, Dave is literally helping people around the world become successful in business. One of those people is Bob. Accepting an award Dave thanked God, his Mom, and Bob. "To succeed, work hard and pray,” he says.
"The blessing of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it."
(Proverbs 10:22)
Deceiving Myself
October 23
Our facilitator, Ron says, "deception is looking outward at what the world says instead of looking inward at ourselves and what God says.” We list how we have
deceived ourselves. I write:
Judging my success by the world’s standard-praise from men. Thinking that if I work hard all will be right and if I do good I am good.
“The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked, who can know it? I the Lord, search the heart. I test the mind, even give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.” (Jeremiah 17:9-10)
Our facilitator, Ron says, "deception is looking outward at what the world says instead of looking inward at ourselves and what God says.” We list how we have
deceived ourselves. I write:
Judging my success by the world’s standard-praise from men. Thinking that if I work hard all will be right and if I do good I am good.
“The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked, who can know it? I the Lord, search the heart. I test the mind, even give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.” (Jeremiah 17:9-10)
Help from Strangers
October 22
Everything seems fine until I distinctly smell gasoline. I pull off the road, open the hood and find gas seeping out of the fuel line. It is a miracle that the engine hasn’t caught fire. Now what do I do? A car pulls in behind me. The driver sees the leak and proceeds to tape the split hose. What a Godsend he is.
Come to think of it, I have had a lifetime of Good Samaritans who have come by and bailed me out of trouble. on the roadways and byways of life. Many of them were strangers but as the parable says, they were my real neighbors.
"Then Jesus said to him, 'Go and do likewise." (Luke 10: 36-37)
Everything seems fine until I distinctly smell gasoline. I pull off the road, open the hood and find gas seeping out of the fuel line. It is a miracle that the engine hasn’t caught fire. Now what do I do? A car pulls in behind me. The driver sees the leak and proceeds to tape the split hose. What a Godsend he is.
Come to think of it, I have had a lifetime of Good Samaritans who have come by and bailed me out of trouble. on the roadways and byways of life. Many of them were strangers but as the parable says, they were my real neighbors.
"Then Jesus said to him, 'Go and do likewise." (Luke 10: 36-37)
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Rock Climbing
October 21
The rock face is straight up. My arms ache as I stretch for the next finger crack. It is out of reach. I stretch and my feet slide out and I fall. Barry Barth, my bailer, is doing his job. He holds the lifeline and I bang against the rock and dangle there. No damage to the bones just to my pride.
God is like that bailer. I can't see Him but I know He is there. He keeps me from falling too far, but allows me to climb my own obstacles. He picks me up when I fall and He renews my strength when I stumble. God can be your bailer too.
“The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid.”(Psalm 27:1)
The rock face is straight up. My arms ache as I stretch for the next finger crack. It is out of reach. I stretch and my feet slide out and I fall. Barry Barth, my bailer, is doing his job. He holds the lifeline and I bang against the rock and dangle there. No damage to the bones just to my pride.
God is like that bailer. I can't see Him but I know He is there. He keeps me from falling too far, but allows me to climb my own obstacles. He picks me up when I fall and He renews my strength when I stumble. God can be your bailer too.
“The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid.”(Psalm 27:1)
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
How does God Keep Track?
October 20
How can God keep track of everything? Ever wonder?
I read,” God is within you.” That's it. I imagine.I’m like a personal computer tied into a master computer. If I'm not plugged in I'm powerless. My screen is dark. Getting plugged in is an act of faith. Once logged on I can get an infinite amount of wisdom from the Master but that doesn't make me a mainframe. I’m still only a personal computer.
Jesus put it this way: "The Kingdom of God does not come visibly, nor will people say ‘here it is' or ‘there it is' because the Kingdom of God is within you." (Luke 17:20-21)
How can God keep track of everything? Ever wonder?
I read,” God is within you.” That's it. I imagine.I’m like a personal computer tied into a master computer. If I'm not plugged in I'm powerless. My screen is dark. Getting plugged in is an act of faith. Once logged on I can get an infinite amount of wisdom from the Master but that doesn't make me a mainframe. I’m still only a personal computer.
Jesus put it this way: "The Kingdom of God does not come visibly, nor will people say ‘here it is' or ‘there it is' because the Kingdom of God is within you." (Luke 17:20-21)
Waiting for God's Direction
October 19
I have a friend who has been out of work for more than a year. He lives at least a mile from me on another street but there in my mailbox is a letter for him. God works in strange and wonderful ways. When I hand him the letter I ask how he is doing. He replies, "I am waiting on God to give me direction.”
"Did you ever think maybe God is waiting on you to get ready for His direction?” “I’m ready,” he says. “How's your heart?"
" Don't answer me, that's between you and God. I was just prompted to ask."
"As in water face reflects face, so a man's heart reveals the man." (Proverbs 27:19)
I have a friend who has been out of work for more than a year. He lives at least a mile from me on another street but there in my mailbox is a letter for him. God works in strange and wonderful ways. When I hand him the letter I ask how he is doing. He replies, "I am waiting on God to give me direction.”
"Did you ever think maybe God is waiting on you to get ready for His direction?” “I’m ready,” he says. “How's your heart?"
" Don't answer me, that's between you and God. I was just prompted to ask."
"As in water face reflects face, so a man's heart reveals the man." (Proverbs 27:19)
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Woodstock Open
October 18
We call it the Woodstock Open, named for the cartoon character. If your golf ball strikes a tree you get a plastic woody. You can pass it on when another golfer hits a tree. There is a snake for a three putt, a camel for a sand trap, a fish for water etc.
I play the Woodstock Open once a year. The cashier asks if I'm a resident. I lie. I’m an ex-resident. I save $7. I play awful, costing me $10 in animals and I lose my self respect. Ok God, no more cheating.
"Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man,
But afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel." Proverbs (20:17)
We call it the Woodstock Open, named for the cartoon character. If your golf ball strikes a tree you get a plastic woody. You can pass it on when another golfer hits a tree. There is a snake for a three putt, a camel for a sand trap, a fish for water etc.
I play the Woodstock Open once a year. The cashier asks if I'm a resident. I lie. I’m an ex-resident. I save $7. I play awful, costing me $10 in animals and I lose my self respect. Ok God, no more cheating.
"Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man,
But afterward his mouth will be filled with gravel." Proverbs (20:17)
God uses a TV
October 17
She said she was having trouble making her apartment cat proof. Her felines were scratching up the new furniture.
“I threw my hands up in the air and said, Lord I need help here to cat proof my apartment." When she returned to the living room she inadvertently stepped on the TV remote lying on the floor. The TV changed channels and her jaw dropped when she heard a woman talking about making your house cat proof.
.
“The voice of the Lord is powerful;
The voice of the Lord is full of majesty." (Psalm 29: 4)
She said she was having trouble making her apartment cat proof. Her felines were scratching up the new furniture.
“I threw my hands up in the air and said, Lord I need help here to cat proof my apartment." When she returned to the living room she inadvertently stepped on the TV remote lying on the floor. The TV changed channels and her jaw dropped when she heard a woman talking about making your house cat proof.
.
“The voice of the Lord is powerful;
The voice of the Lord is full of majesty." (Psalm 29: 4)
God uses a Calling Card
October 16
When we were moving to Sarasota a pastor in Hartford wrote the name of a Christian couple to contact. We didn’t.
In Florida, over lunch an attorney says, "My wife and I are helping some folks start a church." He hands me a calling card for the church with a map on the back. On Sunday ,after the service we meet the very couple that our former pastor had mention. We know this is the church where God wants us to be. When a note didn’t work He provided a calling card with a map.
“In his heart a man plans his course,
but the Lord determines his steps.
(Proverbs 16:9)
When we were moving to Sarasota a pastor in Hartford wrote the name of a Christian couple to contact. We didn’t.
In Florida, over lunch an attorney says, "My wife and I are helping some folks start a church." He hands me a calling card for the church with a map on the back. On Sunday ,after the service we meet the very couple that our former pastor had mention. We know this is the church where God wants us to be. When a note didn’t work He provided a calling card with a map.
“In his heart a man plans his course,
but the Lord determines his steps.
(Proverbs 16:9)
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
More Prayers Answered
October 13
I can't find my checkbook. Had it earlier in the day. I'm getting really stressed and Joy suggests wisely that we pray about it. Moments later I return to my office and a voice in my head says attaché' case. I open it and there is the checkbook.
Joy is having nightmares and asks me to pray with her. We both ask God for help with this. The nightmares stop.
Today she says God spoke to her through Proverbs 1:33 "Whoever listens to me will dwell safely and will be secure without fear or evil."
I can't find my checkbook. Had it earlier in the day. I'm getting really stressed and Joy suggests wisely that we pray about it. Moments later I return to my office and a voice in my head says attaché' case. I open it and there is the checkbook.
Joy is having nightmares and asks me to pray with her. We both ask God for help with this. The nightmares stop.
Today she says God spoke to her through Proverbs 1:33 "Whoever listens to me will dwell safely and will be secure without fear or evil."
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Voice Mail Answered
October 12
Our surrogate son car salesman on voice mail says he slams the phone with such force that it breaks. His manager fires him.
While I pray for guidance on how to respond. I play the next message. It’s the same voice but only this time his tone is normal. God answers my prayer for guidance by sending me chapter and verse in the voice of the person seeking help.
"I found what I was looking for in the One Minute Pocket Bible for Business Professionals." He reads:
" Oh my God I trust in you, Let me not be ashamed;
Let not my enemies triumph over me." (Psalm 25:2)
Our surrogate son car salesman on voice mail says he slams the phone with such force that it breaks. His manager fires him.
While I pray for guidance on how to respond. I play the next message. It’s the same voice but only this time his tone is normal. God answers my prayer for guidance by sending me chapter and verse in the voice of the person seeking help.
"I found what I was looking for in the One Minute Pocket Bible for Business Professionals." He reads:
" Oh my God I trust in you, Let me not be ashamed;
Let not my enemies triumph over me." (Psalm 25:2)
Monday, October 11, 2010
Johnson's Bench
October 11
We call it Johnson’s Bench. It sits in a cemetery and inscribed on its stone face
“Sit ye here at sunset and dusk
Far from the maddening crowd
With this peaceful tranquility
Commune with God.” Joy and I do that.
In the fall the valley below becomes a sea of colors and then shadows as the sun sets behind a ridge. Thank you Mr. Johnson for providing this bench. The markers record the passage of human time while the trees indicate the change of the seasons,and the sunset another revolution of our planet.
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.”
(Matthew 24:35)
We call it Johnson’s Bench. It sits in a cemetery and inscribed on its stone face
“Sit ye here at sunset and dusk
Far from the maddening crowd
With this peaceful tranquility
Commune with God.” Joy and I do that.
In the fall the valley below becomes a sea of colors and then shadows as the sun sets behind a ridge. Thank you Mr. Johnson for providing this bench. The markers record the passage of human time while the trees indicate the change of the seasons,and the sunset another revolution of our planet.
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.”
(Matthew 24:35)
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Answering a Call
She is terminal. I'm prompted to talk with her now in her hospital room.
My sister listens intently but bristles when I read, “the righteous fear God.”
“I always had a problem with needing to fear God,” she protests. I say, “Think of fear as respect.” (Where did that come from?) She recites the suggested prayer asking Jesus to be her Lord and Savior.
Over dinner that night my nephew tells me that ten years earlier he prayed by her bedside, “Lord don’t take my Mom until she is yours.”
(The Lord honored his prayer and took his mother six weeks after my visit.)
“In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:6)
My sister listens intently but bristles when I read, “the righteous fear God.”
“I always had a problem with needing to fear God,” she protests. I say, “Think of fear as respect.” (Where did that come from?) She recites the suggested prayer asking Jesus to be her Lord and Savior.
Over dinner that night my nephew tells me that ten years earlier he prayed by her bedside, “Lord don’t take my Mom until she is yours.”
(The Lord honored his prayer and took his mother six weeks after my visit.)
“In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:6)
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Balloons
October 9
I saw a new community church in Florida use balloons to create a cheerful approach.
There were directional signs with balloons bobbing in the gentle breeze. More balloons lead up to the doors. Every kid loves to see a balloon including the kid in us. By the time people get to the front door they are in a mood to celebrate with those inside singing praises to the Lord. What a way to begin a worship service.
"Oh, clap your hands, all you peoples!
Shout to God with the voice of triumph!
Sing praises to God, sing praises!
Sing praises to our King, sing praises!" (Psalm 47: 1,6)
I saw a new community church in Florida use balloons to create a cheerful approach.
There were directional signs with balloons bobbing in the gentle breeze. More balloons lead up to the doors. Every kid loves to see a balloon including the kid in us. By the time people get to the front door they are in a mood to celebrate with those inside singing praises to the Lord. What a way to begin a worship service.
"Oh, clap your hands, all you peoples!
Shout to God with the voice of triumph!
Sing praises to God, sing praises!
Sing praises to our King, sing praises!" (Psalm 47: 1,6)
The Last Seinfeld Episode
October 8
Although we had stopped watching, the hype lured us to watch the last of Seinfeld.
The episode was surprisingly serious. Jerry and his friends are tried and convicted for their antics and not being sensitive to the needs of others. The characters, put in jail, don't get it.
What will the last episode of my life be like? I know I will be found guilty of being judgmental and insensitive to others. But my judge will be fair and forgiving. I’ll bet my life on that.
"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1John 1:9)
Although we had stopped watching, the hype lured us to watch the last of Seinfeld.
The episode was surprisingly serious. Jerry and his friends are tried and convicted for their antics and not being sensitive to the needs of others. The characters, put in jail, don't get it.
What will the last episode of my life be like? I know I will be found guilty of being judgmental and insensitive to others. But my judge will be fair and forgiving. I’ll bet my life on that.
"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1John 1:9)
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Who is an Empty Nester
October 7
To the world, Joy and I are empty nesters, yet there is a crowd under our roof.There's Molly, which is my endearing name for Joy. Molly is also the name of her cloth rabbit that she claims jumped off a store shelf one day right into her arms. She has a witness.
There are Punkie, Mouse, Slob and the powder fairy, no explanations offered. There are Karl, the controller and Mary Ann, the manipulator. We sent them off to live unhappily together. However, it is our focus to keep God in the center of our marriage that fills our house with love.
"Therefore what God has joined together, let no man separate." (Matthew 19:6)
To the world, Joy and I are empty nesters, yet there is a crowd under our roof.There's Molly, which is my endearing name for Joy. Molly is also the name of her cloth rabbit that she claims jumped off a store shelf one day right into her arms. She has a witness.
There are Punkie, Mouse, Slob and the powder fairy, no explanations offered. There are Karl, the controller and Mary Ann, the manipulator. We sent them off to live unhappily together. However, it is our focus to keep God in the center of our marriage that fills our house with love.
"Therefore what God has joined together, let no man separate." (Matthew 19:6)
Tree Fort
October 6
An 8' x 8' tree fort with screened windows on three sides, a full size door and space to sleep four boys comfortably, sits quietly now. No adults or girls allowed except by special invitation. It was a place to whisper secrets and make plans. The former occupants of that tree fort are all grown now with homes of their own. Whatever was said there is at best a faint memory but the secrets are no longer.
" For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light." (Luke 8:17)
An 8' x 8' tree fort with screened windows on three sides, a full size door and space to sleep four boys comfortably, sits quietly now. No adults or girls allowed except by special invitation. It was a place to whisper secrets and make plans. The former occupants of that tree fort are all grown now with homes of their own. Whatever was said there is at best a faint memory but the secrets are no longer.
" For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light." (Luke 8:17)
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Quotes from my Journal
October 5
Received by E-Mail:
"When the request isn’t right, God says no
When the time isn’t right, God says Slow
When we aren’t right, God says Grow
When everything is right. God says Go.”
* * * *
“God speaks in the language you know best-often not through your ears but through your circumstances.” Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest.
"My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities,
that the power of Christ may rest upon me." (2 Cor 12:9)
Received by E-Mail:
"When the request isn’t right, God says no
When the time isn’t right, God says Slow
When we aren’t right, God says Grow
When everything is right. God says Go.”
* * * *
“God speaks in the language you know best-often not through your ears but through your circumstances.” Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest.
"My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities,
that the power of Christ may rest upon me." (2 Cor 12:9)
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Stand-in-the-Gap
October 4
A million men gather on the Mall in Washington D.C. on this day (1997) to humble themselves before their God.
We find a place to sit 500 yards from the main stage. It is 6:30 a.m.and the program starts at 1 p.m. It is moving to see so many men from churches all over this nation arriving to Stand in the Gap.
One speaker says, "Most assemblies on this mall demand rights. We are here to confess our wrongs." We are also here to pray for each other and our nation.
" If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14 NLT)
A million men gather on the Mall in Washington D.C. on this day (1997) to humble themselves before their God.
We find a place to sit 500 yards from the main stage. It is 6:30 a.m.and the program starts at 1 p.m. It is moving to see so many men from churches all over this nation arriving to Stand in the Gap.
One speaker says, "Most assemblies on this mall demand rights. We are here to confess our wrongs." We are also here to pray for each other and our nation.
" If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14 NLT)
Trusting God
Week of October 3
It had been 16 years since I visited any gynecologist. I had no problems up until last year. I had been having irregular bleeding and heavy periods. I had several tests.... and they found that I had fibroids and a cyst on my ovary. My doctor suggested in November a full hysterectomy.
This would be my 5th surgery where they would be cutting my abdomen so I would have to sign a paper that I understand that there is more risk involved. I asked about keeping my ovaries so that I wouldn’t go into full menopause. My doctor said given my age and the cyst (that may require surgery to be removed in the future) she recommended taking everything.The surgery was scheduled for January 30.
I struggled with this until the day before the scheduled surgery. I had asked the Lord over and over again if I am doing the right thing. To be honest with you I was afraid. It was a pride issue also. I didn’t want anyone to know, because it could look as though I was weak or defeated. I chose not to tell anyone except my family.
I had these thoughts that were not of God that were telling me that things would not go right and I would die on the operating table. I was upset and I was up late at night worrying. I picked up the Bible looking for an answer. I went to several church services seeking solace but the negative thoughts just continued worse than ever. It was like the more positive I received the more negative I became. This whole thing was overwhelming. Pastor always says that the battle is in the mind. Let me tell you what was going on in my head was a war.
I had decided that I would go to women's group and afterwards I would call the doctor to tell her I decided to delay the surgery. But when I went to women's group Sandy who has always been such a comfort to me and my family, praying for us etc., came up to me and told me she was happy to see me there and asked me if I would be now able to come on Tuesdays. I told her what was going on and she began to talk and I knew the Lord was speaking to me through her because a peace and comfort came on me. The mental attacks immediately stopped. Sharon prayed for me and I was relaxed and knew what I had to do and it was right. I would have the operation.
Everything went extremely well in surgery and I was up walking in 8 hours, I went home two days later. When I was in the hospital I had such comfort knowing that Jesus was there with me. The nursing staff commented on how fast I was up and walking and I knew that it was the Lord giving me the ability to get around so quickly.
When I returned a week later to have the staples removed my doctor shared what she didn’t want to tell me on the telephone. She said they tested everything that was taken out and found that I had cancerous cells in the body of my uterus. This is an extremely fast growing cancer. Every time the uterus sheds, the cancer grows and starts spreading into the blood. The recommended procedure for this is a full hysterectomy. What they found was that the cancerous cells were still intact and were concentrated in one area of the uterus.
My doctor told me that I was a lucky woman that someone was watching over me. I said I know God is. She said you are cured. She kept saying that over and over. We cried and held one another.
My doctor had no idea that the cancer cells were there. I asked her why it wasn't seen on all the tests. She said that where it was located no test would have detected it. I cried even more. If I had not had this operation I would be looking at 5-6 months, that’s all.
If my doctor had not taken my ovaries she would have had to go back in and get them. When cancer is present the best operation is actually cutting your abdomen (what I had) because when they do the other surgery there is a risk of dropping cells.
What an awesome God we have. Not only did He heal me of something that would have killed me but also He didn't even let me know that I had it and my family never had to go through that worry and anguish. I do not have to know everything. I just have to trust Him. No glory can be given to any test or doctor but only to God because He knew and no one else did. I am so grateful words can’t describe.
Jackie Harmon
Richmond ,Virginia
It had been 16 years since I visited any gynecologist. I had no problems up until last year. I had been having irregular bleeding and heavy periods. I had several tests.... and they found that I had fibroids and a cyst on my ovary. My doctor suggested in November a full hysterectomy.
This would be my 5th surgery where they would be cutting my abdomen so I would have to sign a paper that I understand that there is more risk involved. I asked about keeping my ovaries so that I wouldn’t go into full menopause. My doctor said given my age and the cyst (that may require surgery to be removed in the future) she recommended taking everything.The surgery was scheduled for January 30.
I struggled with this until the day before the scheduled surgery. I had asked the Lord over and over again if I am doing the right thing. To be honest with you I was afraid. It was a pride issue also. I didn’t want anyone to know, because it could look as though I was weak or defeated. I chose not to tell anyone except my family.
I had these thoughts that were not of God that were telling me that things would not go right and I would die on the operating table. I was upset and I was up late at night worrying. I picked up the Bible looking for an answer. I went to several church services seeking solace but the negative thoughts just continued worse than ever. It was like the more positive I received the more negative I became. This whole thing was overwhelming. Pastor always says that the battle is in the mind. Let me tell you what was going on in my head was a war.
I had decided that I would go to women's group and afterwards I would call the doctor to tell her I decided to delay the surgery. But when I went to women's group Sandy who has always been such a comfort to me and my family, praying for us etc., came up to me and told me she was happy to see me there and asked me if I would be now able to come on Tuesdays. I told her what was going on and she began to talk and I knew the Lord was speaking to me through her because a peace and comfort came on me. The mental attacks immediately stopped. Sharon prayed for me and I was relaxed and knew what I had to do and it was right. I would have the operation.
Everything went extremely well in surgery and I was up walking in 8 hours, I went home two days later. When I was in the hospital I had such comfort knowing that Jesus was there with me. The nursing staff commented on how fast I was up and walking and I knew that it was the Lord giving me the ability to get around so quickly.
When I returned a week later to have the staples removed my doctor shared what she didn’t want to tell me on the telephone. She said they tested everything that was taken out and found that I had cancerous cells in the body of my uterus. This is an extremely fast growing cancer. Every time the uterus sheds, the cancer grows and starts spreading into the blood. The recommended procedure for this is a full hysterectomy. What they found was that the cancerous cells were still intact and were concentrated in one area of the uterus.
My doctor told me that I was a lucky woman that someone was watching over me. I said I know God is. She said you are cured. She kept saying that over and over. We cried and held one another.
My doctor had no idea that the cancer cells were there. I asked her why it wasn't seen on all the tests. She said that where it was located no test would have detected it. I cried even more. If I had not had this operation I would be looking at 5-6 months, that’s all.
If my doctor had not taken my ovaries she would have had to go back in and get them. When cancer is present the best operation is actually cutting your abdomen (what I had) because when they do the other surgery there is a risk of dropping cells.
What an awesome God we have. Not only did He heal me of something that would have killed me but also He didn't even let me know that I had it and my family never had to go through that worry and anguish. I do not have to know everything. I just have to trust Him. No glory can be given to any test or doctor but only to God because He knew and no one else did. I am so grateful words can’t describe.
Jackie Harmon
Richmond ,Virginia
The Ultimate Question
October 3
There is a powerful conversation between Martha and Jesus that puts it all right on the line. Martha says, "Lord if you had been here my brother (Lazarus) would not have died. But even now I know whatever You ask of God, God will give you."
Jesus says, "Your brother will rise again."
Martha states: "I know that he will rise again in the resurrection in the last day.”
Jesus- "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me though he may die, he shall live.” Then Jesus asks the question we all eventually have to answer.
“Do you believe this?” (John 11:21-26)
There is a powerful conversation between Martha and Jesus that puts it all right on the line. Martha says, "Lord if you had been here my brother (Lazarus) would not have died. But even now I know whatever You ask of God, God will give you."
Jesus says, "Your brother will rise again."
Martha states: "I know that he will rise again in the resurrection in the last day.”
Jesus- "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me though he may die, he shall live.” Then Jesus asks the question we all eventually have to answer.
“Do you believe this?” (John 11:21-26)
Joy's Golf Shot
October 2
The first hole at the Blue Rock Executive Golf Course on Cape Cod is 90 yards. You can see the green from the waiting area. It is crowded and Joy prays, "Lord just let me hit the ball." It is quiet. Whack!
The ball bounces in front of the green and rolls up to within a few inches of the cup. There is applause. Joy turns and curtsies.Joy taps in for a birdie- more applause. She bows and on the next tee says, "That's it, It’ll never get better than this; I retire." And she did.
"I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them."
(Mark 11:24)
The first hole at the Blue Rock Executive Golf Course on Cape Cod is 90 yards. You can see the green from the waiting area. It is crowded and Joy prays, "Lord just let me hit the ball." It is quiet. Whack!
The ball bounces in front of the green and rolls up to within a few inches of the cup. There is applause. Joy turns and curtsies.Joy taps in for a birdie- more applause. She bows and on the next tee says, "That's it, It’ll never get better than this; I retire." And she did.
"I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them."
(Mark 11:24)
An Old Car
October 1
The car won’t start. Ugh! We are going to Florida even if we have to jump-start this car all the way from Massachusetts. We stay with family in New Jersey. We ride to church in their van. During adult Sunday school I hear, "we need to pray for my brother-in-law's old car, that it will start and make it to Sarasota."
The car starts the next three days and we arrive safely in Sarasota.Prayers answered. The next day the car barely starts. I drive it directly to a repair shop.
"This is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will He hears us.”(1John 5:14)
The car won’t start. Ugh! We are going to Florida even if we have to jump-start this car all the way from Massachusetts. We stay with family in New Jersey. We ride to church in their van. During adult Sunday school I hear, "we need to pray for my brother-in-law's old car, that it will start and make it to Sarasota."
The car starts the next three days and we arrive safely in Sarasota.Prayers answered. The next day the car barely starts. I drive it directly to a repair shop.
"This is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will He hears us.”(1John 5:14)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)