December 27, 2021
On the Third Day of Christmas, we are experiencing a very cold snap here at home. Highs in the negative degrees - yes, negative - are expected for several days! While a White Christmas was wonderful to experience, this cold is tough on so many.
Yet, when I saw this, it made me smile. I hope it will you, also.
December 26, 2021
On the Second Day of Christmas, two events were important to me. First, a meaningful worship service of Lessons and Carols. And second, an invitation to dinner with folks that included good food and laughter! A wonderful beginning to the Christmas season.
Blessings. And prayers.
December 25, 2021
This photo of the nativity on a beach spoke the Christmas message to me in a beautiful and creative way.
This one made me smile:
Perhaps this one, however, means the most to me. It was a gift painted by one of our young ones.
Blessings. And prayers.
December 24, 2021
This Christmas Eve, the sanctuary provided a place of peace - thanks be to God.
Also, this poem spoke to me and was included in the Christmas Eve message.
Blessings. And prayers.
December 23, 2021
As I stood in the Fellowship Hall watching folks gather for the Christmas Eve Eve event, seeing joy in the eyes of little ones as they saw people they knew, hearing laughter and expectation as folks came together, tears came to my eyes. These folks would experience a “Christmas village,” hear the story of Jesus’ birth, celebrate Holy Communion, and sing Silent Night, then be sent into the night, hopefully filled with some Christmas hope and peace.
As the evening came to a close, it seems this “something new” did bring joy. For that, I am grateful. As I am to all who helped in so many ways - the musicians, the refreshment crew, the hosts and hostesses, the story-tellers, and certainly those who came for the experience. You are all absolutely wonderful, and I am grateful to be among you!
Blessings. And prayers.
December 22, 2021
Here it is, December 22. On Christmas Eve Eve we are trying something new for a youth and family event. Then there are two services planned for Christmas Eve. Yet here I am wondering, is everything ready? Have we forgotten something? Will anyone come? Will we be able to worship safely, yet reverently?
So while I am excited for the upcoming services and days, I am nervous. Help me to stay calm, dear Lord, and point to you. You are, after all, what really matters. Amen!
Blessings. And prayers.
December 21, 2021
Tuesday’s Thoughts on Scripture comes from the Gospel of Luke, chapter 2, verses 9-11. And who to say it better than Charles Schulz through his “Peanuts” character, Linus:
A story goes that Mr. Schulz would only agree to the movie, “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” if this message from the heavenly host to the shepherds living in the fields would be included. Jesus the Christ is, after all, the “reason for the season.”
May this Good News of Great Joy for all people bring you peace and hope today, tomorrow, and forever.
Blessings. And prayers.
December 20, 2021
Here is a smile for the week:
The picture of this sign was taken in our town. Never let it be said folks here do not have a sense of humor! Or are not creative!
Blessings. And prayers.
December 19, 2021
On this Fourth Sunday of Advent, the word for the day is thankful. For a wonderful morning of worship, a refreshing afternoon nap (a rare treat), and time to catch up on the blog. If you are a regular reader, you know I am often behind a few days. However, these last two or three weeks, I have gotten WAY behind. Thank you for continuing to read, sending me comments, and encouraging me to continue.
It is hard to believe I am days away from the eighth year anniversary. To say I never expected to keep going this long is an understatement. To admit it is sometimes a labor of love is also an understatement. Yet, I find it important and soul-enriching to find something every day that speaks to God intertwining life and faith. And that part is easy…most days. 😉
Blessings. And prayers.
December 18, 2021
On this Satisfied Saturday I am thankful for sleep. There is nothing quite like a solid, good amount of uninterrupted sleep. It refreshes our body, rests our minds, and is necessary for life. God knew what we need.
To those of you for whom sleep can be elusive, I feel your pain. That describes many of my nights. Therefore, prayers for a good night’s rest for us all! And thank you, God, when they come!
Blessings. And prayers.
December 17, 2021
This message written by Cheryl M. Peterson in the January/February 2021 Gather magazine called “Weightlifting and the Mustard Seed” is important to share:
Perhaps we wonder whether we have “enough faith” to face the challenges of discipleship in today’s world. We may wonder if our faith is too small and fragile amid the anxieties during a global pandemic.
Jesus does not think that “more faith” is what the disciples need. Instead, he tells the disciples that if they had faith the size of a mustard seed (which is among the smallest of seeds), that would be enough (Luke 17:6). It is the presence of faith – not the quality – that matters. If one has the tiniest amount, it is enough.
David Tiede writes in a commentary on Luke, “There is no need for desperate quests for ‘more faith,’ as if it could be quantified or possessed.” It is God’s Spirit working in and through our faith that makes all things possible.
And then, as if to drive home the message, I saw this:
These are both good reminders that faith is not like deposits made into a bank account. Faith is from God, and God will ALWAYS give us what we need, when we need it. Thank you, God. You are so awesome!!
Blessings. And prayers.
December 16, 2021
With all the busyness, pain and death lately, I found this month's “Mysterious Ways” an uplifting article in the “Guideposts” magazine. Lori Kennedy tells of going back to her burned out home following a wildfire. Except for a few items, all was gone. After a while, she and her husband called it quits on their "discovery mission." As she turned to get in the car, she noticed something stuck to her shoe. She writes, “A scrap of paper, smudged with soot. I picked it up. Its edges were singed, yet the words were surprisingly legible: ‘If life seems difficult, I pause and reflect on the blessing sometimes hidden within every circumstance. With renewed faith and courage, I begin again.’”
Oh, how I needed to read these words. I have to admit, it is not always easy to keep going when there are weeks like these last two. Thank you again, God, for always being with me!
Then there is this picture of Simon on this day of his piano recital.
Blessings. And prayers.
December 15, 2021
If I somehow thought last Wednesday was filled with God’s presence in all the busyness, today I would describe the intersections of faith and life as being on steroids. It was a very full day filled with emotions that were all across the board. However, I consider myself blessed to have been a part of so many different gatherings.
But mostly, I feel honored to help another family lay a loved one to rest. What holy ground. What a holy moment. Thank you, Lord, for your presence and strength!
Blessings. And prayers.
December 14, 2021
Tuesday’s Thoughts on Scripture comes from the Gospel of Luke, the second chapter, verse 10: But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for see — I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people.” (NRSV)
There must be something about the sudden presence of an angel that elicits a response of fear. Many of the incidents in the stories surrounding the birth of Jesus begin with the angel having to tell the person they appear to: “do not be afraid.” Are angels frightening in appearance? Does their "showing up" happen in a way that startles the person? Is it the message they are bringing? Could it be some of all of these?
In our first home together, the washer/dryer was on the first floor, around the corner from the dining room. It was in a rather small space, away from “traffic,” and the noise of the machines kept me from hearing someone coming. Many times my hubby would come behind me, say something, and scare me half to death. It was not that he is a scary man, but not expecting him almost always brought a fear-filled reaction.
Perhaps angels appearing were more common in that day, but not to the people we hear about. A young peasant woman, a man ready for marriage, a group of shepherds tending their flock in the middle of the night may have been unlikely candidates to hear from God’s messenger. Yet, they receive them. Mostly willingly. And not only do they receive the angels, but also their messages. Then they share them, so that we may know. For that, I say thanks be to God!
Blessings. And prayers.
December 13, 2021
December 13 is known as St. Lucia’s Day. I learned of this tradition while in seminary when a classmate, Lucy (of course), was chosen to “wear the lights.” A Google search reminds me that “this festival is celebrated in Sweden, Norway, and the Swedish-speaking areas of Finland.” “St. Lucia’s Day can be traced back to the 4th Century. It commemorates the martyr Lucia of Syracuse, who, as legend has it, brought food to Christians hiding in Roman catacombs, lighting her way with a candlelit wreath on her head.”
How does this celebration fit as a smile for the week? Well, just imagine you are hiding away, hungry, and see her coming. Surely that would bring a smile to your face. As does this Icon from the hand of Luke Dingman.
December 12, 2021
The word for the day - festive! With the help of several, the sanctuary is decorated for the rest of the Advent Season and Christmas. The tree and the sconces look wonderful. The poinsettias will be delivered later this week. All is nearly ready.
But for the Confirmation Class, it seems prophecy is not the most exciting of subjects. Whew, it was a tough teaching day. Prayers for all those trying to keep students’ interest as the holidays draw near. Many prayers!
Blessings. And prayers.
December 11, 2021
On this Satisfied Saturday, I give thanks for remembrances. From the memories our Godson’s mother shared on FaceBook of her stepfather on the fifth year anniversary of his death, to those shared with me for a Memorial Service of a long time member that allowed us all to know him a bit better, to those who have lived through a terrible series of tornadoes in the midwest, today was a day full of remembering.
What a gift it is to leave memories that bring smiles and even laughter. In the end, knowing others will remember us is so very important.
And for those who are suffering and have lost so much, many prayers.
Blessings. And prayers.
December 10, 2021
The word for the day is thankful. Following a crazy week, it is good to have some time with the hubby. What an amazingly patient man who never questions my schedule and need to be away. I am very fortunate and truly believe God brought us together. Thankfully!
Blessings. And prayers.
December 9, 2021
It is hard to describe how holy it is being invited to walk with a family in the midst of their deepest grief. At the death of a loved one, folks are most vulnerable and often in the most need to have someone they trust with them to bring comfort and some guidance. What an honor it is to be asked to be that person and to bring the reminder of God’s love and presence. God, thank you for this amazing call. Amen.
Blessings. And prayers.
December 8, 2021
It is difficult to name something that was not included in today that reminded me of the intersection of faith and life. God was with me in every part of the day - in conversations, reviews, study, laughter, planning, a good doctor appointment for hubby, prayer, visits, hugs, tears, shock, support. I feel certain I am missing something.
Wednesday is usually a busy day. However, this one was beyond busy. God, thank you for being with me, sustaining me, inspiring me, and guiding me. Amen.
Blessings. And prayers.
December 7, 2021
Tuesday’s Thoughts on Scripture comes from Matthew, chapter 1, verse 23: “Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,” which means, “God is with us.” (NRSV)
Emmanuel, another of Jesus’ names, means God is with us. Yet what does that really mean? In the person of the Holy Spirit, God can be everywhere, right?! The Holy Spirit, like the wind, can be felt anywhere, especially in the wind of breath, as close as our heart. So why Emmanuel?
Perhaps one clue to the need for the person of Jesus can be found in his humanity. There is more than simply an idea of wind or breath to the human Jesus. There is a baby, a young man, a living, breathing adult with temptations, feelings, hopes, and prayers. A man who suffered and died. A man who loved and cried. A man who experienced what we do. Yet a man who was more than any other. Who, as God, was able to accomplish more than any other. Resurrection. Victory over death. And, ultimately, right relationship with God forever. Eternally!
This is Emmanuel. This is God with us. This is our Savior, Jesus the Christ. So, as we inch closer to celebrating his birth some two thousand years ago, may the promise of his presence with us eternally, and ours with him, give us all hope. And peace.
Blessings. And prayers.
December 6, 2021
Every year I promise myself “this Advent will be different!” More organized. Less stressful. Less last minute things. Every. Single. Year!
Well, following the Second Sunday of Advent, I realize this year is much like all the others. Then I saw this and said, “I must not be alone.”
Hope this brings you a smile this week. Certainly I have colleagues who can relate!
Blessings. And prayers.
December 5, 2021
I am in awe of a ministry we heard about this morning in worship. This is from the website of Toby's House Crisis Nursery here in town: “October Perez, known to some as “Toby,” was only two-years-old when she died from abuse at the hands of her mother’s boyfriend in 2011.”
This was not only a tragic event, but totally unacceptable to some folks. There should be another way. So they came together to make a place possible for parents to drop off their 0-6 year old for a few hours, or day, if life has gotten to be too much. Before losing control and being abusive, Toby’s House is there for parents/caregivers to get some cool down time. What an amazing gift. What a true lifesaver! And what a good reminder that a few can do a lot to help others!
Blessings. And prayers.
December 4, 2021
On this Satisfied Saturday, I give thanks for the working of the Holy Spirit. One of the times I am most appreciative of the Spirit's action is when I am writing a sermon. My prayer each time I sit to write is, “Thank you, God, for this opportunity. Lead, guide, and direct my thoughts, and words, to be what you want spoken and what others need to hear” (or something along those lines). When the scripture makes it difficult to discern a nugget for a sermon, I pray this more than once. Or twice.
In the end, I truly believe it is the Holy Spirit that gives me words and direction. I pray that translates, or comes through, on Sunday. However, I believe and trust the Holy Spirit speaks to each one of us. We can all hear what is meant for us to hear. Therefore, my prayer really is: help me, Lord, to hear you. Amen! Let it be so!
Blessings. And prayers.
December 3, 2021
What an enjoyable evening! About ten of my colleagues and their “plus ones” gathered for dinner. In a local restaurant, we gathered in a comfortable room to ourselves and enjoyed some fine food. But the conversation and the camaraderie was the best part.
Most of us have been meeting regularly on Zoom, but there is something to be said for being together in person. Separation is just another thing this pandemic has caused. But tonight, we celebrated together, laughed, and even sang Happy Birthday, as carefully as we could. It was glorious!
Blessings. And prayers.
December 2, 2021
Another day when the word is thankful! This time for having - and making - time to visit folks. What a gift it is to spend time with an individual, hearing their stories, their hopes, their fears. Oh, what an honor it truly is!!
Blessings. And prayers.
December 1, 2021
The word for the day - thankful! The painting of the sanctuary is nearly completed. It looks fresh, clean, and well-cared for. The best part, however, is that we will be able to worship in “our” space on Sunday. I cannot wait for folks to see how it looks!
I have certainly missed everyone! How did we do "virtual worship only" for soooo many weeks because of COVID?!?!
Blessings. And prayers.
November 30, 2021
Tuesday’s Thoughts on Scripture comes from Philippians 1:3-5: I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now.
Years ago, when I was blessed to work with a very thoughtful boss, the first part of verse 1- I thank my God every time I remember you - became somewhat of a mantra. Those words were written at the bottom of every letter (and there were many!) that left his office, most of which I prepared. Often when answering the phone, the caller would mention receiving a letter and how much that line meant to them. Not only did they appreciate knowing they were remembered to God, but also that my boss was thankful for them.
I cannot read these words now without giving thanks for that boss. He has taught me many things over the years I have known him, but the importance of telling people you are thankful for them might be the best lesson. After all, God is a God of relationship and must be most pleased when relationships between humans are nurtured. Certainly, thankfulness - and speaking it out loud - is important for a solid relationship of any kind.
Blessings. And prayers.
November 29, 2021
From the Thanksgiving Weekend through Christmas, southern-born folks, especially, tend to eat a lot of pecans. However, just reading the word will not give us a correct pronunciation. So this help is the smile for the week:
November 28, 2021
On this first Sunday of Advent, which is also the first day of Hanukkah, I had to snag this from a colleague:
November 27, 2021
On this Satisfied Saturday, I give thanks for the rain where we are. We have taken a short trip over the Thanksgiving weekend since we had four days off in a row. We are experiencing several weather patterns - snow, rain, wind (LOTS of wind), and sunshine.
Yet, it is the moisture in the form of rain for which I give the most thanks and praise. Dare I pray for more, especially at home?!?!
Blessings. And prayers.
November 26, 2021
This is from the Daily Devotion taken from writings of Henri Nouwen:
Community is like a large mosaic. Each little piece seems so insignificant. One piece is bright red, another cold blue or dull green, another warm purple, another sharp yellow, another shining gold. Some look precious, others ordinary. Some look valuable, others worthless. Some look gaudy, others delicate. We can do little with them as individual stones except compare them and judge their beauty and value. When, however, all these little stones are brought together in one big mosaic, portraying the face of Christ, who would ever question the importance of any one of them? If one of them, even the least spectacular one, is missing, the face is incomplete. Together in the one mosaic, each little stone is indispensable and makes a unique contribution to the glory of God. That’s community, a fellowship of little people who together make God visible in the world.
Is there a place in the mosaic where you are missing? In these last months of COVID, I lament those who are missing for various reasons. The “face is incomplete.” The community is lacking.
However, I also realize the "faces" may not physically be in the same place, yet the contribution of each person is as important as ever. And as vital. My prayer is that you realize you are important and that you have an essential place in the mosaic. And if I can help in any way, please let me know. Please!
Blessings. And prayers.
November 24, 2021
Today is a special day in your life, Simon. Today is the first anniversary of a very special wedding. One that changed your world, and brought together a new family.
We wish you a Happy Anniversary - all of you! We pray you all continue to grow in love and commitment and joy. Every day!
Blessings. And prayers.
November 23, 2021
Tuesday’s Thoughts on Scripture is from the Gospel of Luke, the first chapter, verses 39 and 40: In those days Mary set out and went with haste to a Judean town in the hill country, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. (NRSV)
Two women greet one another. We can assume they knew each other before this visit, but things are now different. Both women have been called into service to the Lord - anointed, holy, set apart for very special events. They will both give birth to a son - Elizabeth to John, Mary to Jesus. Both their sons would have lives that were troubled, yet filled with majesty. Both men would have followers, be teachers and prophets, and themselves be anointed. Sadly, both men would also suffer horrific deaths. Yet only one, Jesus, being both God and man, would be resurrected as Lord and Savior.
At this point in our scripture, these women may have had only a small inkling of what was to come. A very small inkling. They knew they were blessed for a special calling, and perhaps that was enough for now. Yet I have to wonder, what did they talk about in their time together? How many tears were shed? How much laughter, comparison, wonder and fear was shared? Certainly there were all sorts of emotions, because at their core, they were simply women. Different, yet similar. Separate in many ways, yet bonded in one amazing one.
Women can have a special bond with other women due to similar experiences and can be drawn together over them. What a gift women can be for one another. Which makes me wonder: is there a woman looking to you for comfort, hope, friendship, a listening ear? More than likely the answer is yes. And that, I believe, is itself a blessing.
Blessings. And prayers.
November 22, 2021
Who better than The Peanuts to wish us a happy week and put a smile on our face?!
May we all have a smile on our face and in our heart this week (and always) as we remember and give thanks to God for who God is and who we are to God! Happy Thanksgiving week!
Blessings. And prayers.
November 21, 2021
Week two without a live, in-person worship service leaves me feeling sad. I miss the community. And we have one more week to go (November 28 will also be recorded, sadly).
However, I used some of the extra time to catch-up on the blogging I have been behind on for weeks. Every day I make a note of some way that God has been shown to me, something I am grateful for or sometimes grumpy about, but writing them out and getting them posted can take a few days. But today, I am current. Today. 😊
So I give thanks for the time and energy to write. Also, please know I appreciate all of you who read these posts.
Blessings. And prayers.
