As we begin our new year it can be tempting to wonder if God really understands that our bodies cannot keep up with our dreams of all we'd like to do - for Him, ourselves, our family, those we care about. But He does know exactly how you are feeling today. . . and how you will feel tomorrow. He knows you lack energy, even on days you may have enthusiasm and you feel like the day was wasted. Remember that God never wastes anything. Your time and your experiences are all a part of His greater plan. The Will of God The will of God will never take you, Where the grace of God cannot keep you, Where the arms of God cannot support you, Where the riches of God cannot supply your needs, Where the power of God cannot endow you. The … [Read more...]
Every Day Is Christmas
A friend recently sent me this & this year, more than any other, I can relate to it since I have been dependent on friends & strangers to help drive me around from place to place as I continue to recover from joint replacement surgery in my h&. I hope it encourages you to continue to reach out to those in your life who are strangers or friends. While we may assume that the people around us are well taken as, emotionally provided for, & without needs, it is rarely the case & our helpfulness or even smile can make all the difference in their life. Lisa Copen, Rest Ministries Director __________________________________________________ Every Day is Christmas Every day is Christmas when you have the kind of mind, That stores up all … [Read more...]
Jesus, God’s Love in A Stable!
Jesus, on a snow-white laden night He came to us this star-bright night. He was born simply, humbly, too - A stable of hay & animals few. Mary, in pains of birth – she knew! Joseph, to him, it was all so new. Mary & Joseph a couple pure Following God's directions, sure! They knew this town of Bethlehem So special it was to both of them. This town of David – shepherd & king Jesus was born – Shepherd & King! Jesus, the Son of the Living God Entered our world of sin so fraught. Yet, He came as Saviour & Friend To bring sin & sickness to an end! So, let us come to His stable-throne Throw down our revenging stone. Let us pick up this Light of God Find our way to our Creator God! Jesus, we know loves us … [Read more...]
The Christmas Rose
I walked along the quiet street alone, the snow was drifting down, The stores were closed & shuttered in this peaceful little town, The Christmas rush was ending, for 'twas Christmas Eve, you see, Still I walked in search of “peace on earth,” & inner peace in me. “What is Christmas really all about?” I spoke aloud in prayer, “Lord, show me the true meaning so I’ll have a gift to share.” I walked on, & in the distance came the glow of a soft light, It was streaming from a window, giving guidance in the night. From this tiny little church house I could hear the children sing Of the “Dear little Lord Jesus, unto You our gifts we bring.” As I paused & turned toward the door, hoping not to make a sound, My eyes … [Read more...]
The Raging Sea – Poem
A wave, crashing against the shore Shaking me from my reverie I was lost in my thoughts once again Lost within the confines of my pain An infinite jumble of emotional fears & doubts I struggled to make some sense Of my life thus far In a world tinged in darkness & pain I know that my heart remains pure But not untouched by it My life of pain has left an imprint upon me The valleys & crevices are emotions pool Often overflow within me Drown me in feelings of despair And now the wave, lapping at my bare toes Sends it's icy fingers up my body Refreshing & terrifying all the same Reminding me of the coldness I once carried Reinforcing this need to grasp onto the only person that has given me Hope. And claim Him as my … [Read more...]
What is Ministry?
Ministry Is…. Listening, when you'd rather fix the problem. Searching for the joy, when it's easier to say "it's not fair." Helping, when you feel like you're the one that needs the help. Telling God, "use me," when you'd rather ask to be rescued. Encouraging, even when you don't underst& God's reasoning. Hugging when it feels awkward. Saying, "let's pray right now," instead of "I'll pray for you." Serving, when you doubt you have anything left to give. Comforting, by being the flicker of light in others' dark caverns. "Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength." Nehemiah 8:10 [author unknown] … [Read more...]
My Broken Heart
“Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens,” (Psalm 68:19). How does a broken heart heal Lord? Where do you take all the pain? Do you remove it & store it in darkness? Or is it the thunder I hear with the rain? Are the stars little explosions of heartbreak? Is the sea filled up with the dread of brokeness, tears & heartache of the lonely, afflicted, mislead? God where do you place all the hurting? Where does all that pain lie? Child why is it you ask me such questions when the answer has always been thine The cross is where all of that hurting all the pain & suffering you tend no matter what your affliction My Son’s sacrifice dealt with its end Any tears that you shed hereafter I … [Read more...]
Beyond My Smile
Look at me. I look normal As far as your eyes can see But hidden beyond my smile Chronic illness brings me to my knees I go about my everyday With a prayer upon my heart And pray for everything I do That this brain fog will depart I ask Him for strength that I might cope Then I pray for peace of mind I search within my soul For someone who is kind When I lay down to rest at night I pray He ll help me sleep Tuck me in & kiss my head That I will not weep With each new day comes the pain Only my physical body knows Illness is no respecter of people It latches on & there it grows You can t just share with anyone They just don t underst& Take it to the Lord in prayer And He will help you st& One day at a time … [Read more...]
