Your Life Pace

 “So let us run the race that is before us and never give up.”  Hebrews 12:1

The calendar turned to September, and life kicked into a faster gear for some of you.  The month brings fall sports, football season, school and all its activities, the pool closed for the season, the county fair and fall festivals, and…. The non-stop of activities continues to grow.  Your pace of life is labeled “busy.”  In your head you feel overwhelmed.

You have much to do and may feel pushed, rushed, and frazzled.  You have no time to think, plan, or even contemplate if what you are doing is what you want to do.  You are in gear and just plowing threw the activities.  Your life may be busy with family situations, illness, being a caregiver, a mountain of paperwork or other necessary but overwhelming tasks that keep you at a heightened intensity.

Maybe some of you are in park mode.  You just do not know what to do, where to begin, how to make changes, or how to live in this season of life.  Your physical body may look like it is resting, but your thoughts are running in high speed with no specific direction.

Whether you are in park or high gear, you need to evaluate your life pace.  What do you want your pace to be?  You can only reflect on this by first resting.  Rest your thoughts and give yourself permission to be quiet and rest in God’s quiet presence.  This may not feel possible nor productive, but if you do not rest, you will burn yourself out.

What about following God’s pace and walk with God?  To rest in God means to give each activity, each situation, each thought to God and learn the habit of trusting God to work in you.  That is, pausing and talking with God about what is before you, what seems huge in front of you and trust God to work through you.  It is not your strength, but God’s strength through you and in God’s timing not yours.  Resting in God does not mean you are inactive, it just means you allow God to walk with you in each situation without trying to figure out everything on your own.  You pace yourself with God.

We do not naturally rest because we feel we need to always be busy even for God.  We try to earn God’s favor.  Oh, we know God gives us grace and forgives us.  It is a free gift that we cannot work for nor earn, but we tend to want to prove to God that we are worthy of His grace.  We want to work hard to show God that we appreciate and accept what He did for us.  We want God to see our initiative in doing things on our own, but that is a distorted view of what God really desires.  God wants surrender and dependency upon Him.

When we allow God to set our pace, we can get off the merry-go-round of society with all of its expectations.  We take time to think, pray, and be aware of the feelings and needs of those we love and care for.  It gives us time to reflect on our daily purpose.  It is daily choosing to give everything to God and trusting His grace is sufficient.

God’s grace is sufficient.  In 2 Corinthians 9, Paul prayed for God to take away his pain and heal him.  He wanted God to meet his need and relieve him of the “thorn in his flesh.”  Then Jesus said to Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:9 – “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”  His outlook changed and joy came into his life when Paul focused on God’s grace not his pain.  The pain was still there, but his focus changed.  His weakness expressed the grace and strength of Jesus.

God’s grace is sufficient.  Trust God instead of following the expectations of this world.  God’s grace is enough, but we want to make it on our own or give God the plan for our lives.  Slow down.  Change your focus.  Rest in the total acceptance of God’s presence creating your life pace.

Allow your life pace to be powered by God’s grace.  Grace is what God gives out of the goodness of His heart, not anything we do.  The good news of grace is that when we come to God, God gives His grace – unconditionally.  Grace is something we do not expect and can never earn, but it is also something we should never turn down.

When we live in a life pace of grace, we forgive ourselves and others freely.  We do not worry but surrender everything to God and know that God’s grace is sufficient and will meet all your needs. Walk in grace.  Change your focus to walk with God and trust His pace for your life.

Check out Elaine’s books, newspaper articles and past blogs on her website – www.livinginthedifferent.com

Worship in Adventures

 “Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness, tremble before him, all the earth.”  Psalm 96:9

I recently took a long weekend trip to Historic Savannah, Georgia with the plan to enjoy the sites and learn the history of the city.  We rode the trolley, visited the historical sites, ate great southern food especially the peach cobbler, and walked thousands of steps through the park and squares.  I had prayed for safety and protection and invited God into the moments of each day.  And yes, God showed up in amazing and awesome ways.  I never expected to worship so much on the trip.

First, in our Uber driver with whom we enjoyed our conversation on the drive.  He dropped us off at our hotel and as we walked into the lobby, Ben realized his phone was still on the seat of the Uber vehicle.  As I called the phone, the driver walked into the hotel lobby, phone in hand.  He smiled, handed the phone to me and said, “God bless you.”  What a gift from God.  I took a moment to pause, thank God and praise God for his blessing and watchful care over us.  A moment of worship as we began our adventure.

The next day, we rode the trolley all the way around Historic Savannah and got off at the last stop at the Catholic Basilica of St. John the Baptist – a place of worship.  It was beautiful and breath-taking.  You could feel the Spirit in this holy place.  God had been invited and was present, but what brought me to a deeper worship was the docent, Martha, who was our tour guide.  She loved this church and saw God in every aspect of the building.  The stained-glass windows revealed the story of God, but to Martha the windows were God’s presence – His Word revealed in pictures.  The beauty was not to be worshipped as an idol but to be worshipped as God being present in His amazing creation.  Martha’s face radiated God’s love and joy.  Because of Martha, God was experienced and worshipped humbly and with a deep reverence of God’s holy presence.  Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place.

I always seek out a place to worship while on a trip.  We found a Methodist Church and it was within walking distance.  It had a 11 AM traditional worship service. The sanctuary was being remodeled therefore the service was being held in the house of worship next door – the Jewish Temple.  Wow!  We found ourselves in a beautiful Jewish Temple worshipping Jesus.  What an adventure.  Our Christian faith is rooted in the Jewish tradition.  As the pastor preached on the Bible being the Word of God, he looked behind him and made reference to The Torah which was encased behind him.  The Word became flesh in Jesus.

The service was filled with the traditions that touched my heart with the feeling of truly being in worship – the introit sung by the choir, the Gloria Patri, chimes, traditional hymns, the Doxology, Benediction Response by the choir, and the robes and formal dress of the congregation. It brought back wonderful memories of churches I had served and how traditions are intertwined in experiencing the Presence of God. 

Then in the afternoon, we went to the Square where John Wesley, the founder of Methodism was honored with a statue and a historical marker describing the beginning of Methodism in Savannah.  I sat on the bench and in those moments reflected on the foundation of my church faith.  The Methodist Church has been central in the faith history of my family for generations.  It was in those moments, I worshipped God not because of being Methodist, but because it was through the church that I learned about God and accepted Jesus as my personal Savior.  I grew up going to Church and then serving Churches as a pastor.  In all those experiences, God was present.  I grew in my relationship with Jesus, and I encountered people who were sign posts that have guided me down the path of faith.  We have worshipped together and experienced the sweet Spirit’s presence in these places.

We all worship God in different styles and in different settings.  I find that it is not so much about the place, the style of music or the name on the building, it is about your heart.  It is inviting God into all the adventures of your life and honoring God.  Worship happens when we are aware of God’s presence, humble ourselves in grateful praise to God, and recognize it all comes from God.  Worship becomes a lifestyle – where we honor God in every aspect of life.  Every part of life can become worship when we bring God into it.  Worship in all the adventures of your life and in the everyday moments.

I came to enjoy the sites of Savannah, and God blessed my time with so many adventures where worship was intertwined.  God was present in the beauty of nature all around, in the smiles and conversations with people, and in quiet moments where no words were needed.  Worship is a natural part of life.  Recognize the gift and worship our Lord.

Check out my website – www.livinginthedifferent.com

            Books, Past blogs and Newspaper columns.

Fool Yourself Less

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6

You did not trust your gut feeling or instinct, but you believed the opinion of someone else.  It fell apart because you did not trust yourself.  The other person made you question yourself and so you caved in, and now you regret your choice.  You fooled yourself into doubting yourself.

You thought you did not need help, guidance, or advice.  You believed you could think for yourself.  You relied on social media’s perspective to form your views and values and you made these thoughts true.  Now you have alienated those who have supported you.  You have fooled yourself into thinking your foundation is outdated.

Not all your thoughts or the views and opinions of others are factual.  You can create thoughts that you believe are true but have no factual basis.  This is where anxiety, worry, and fear take up residence in these thoughts that have no validity.

You created a view or story in your head and begin looking for statements from others and the media that validate these thoughts.  You keep adding to the thoughts until you fool yourself into believing they are true.  You argue and are reactive and negative toward others who challenge your thoughts.

So, who are you trusting with your thoughts?  When you trust someone and they break your trust, it is difficult to trust them again.  Sometimes it is accepting people for who they are and not basing your thoughts and decisions on people who are not consistent and factual.  It is not fooling yourself to believe they will not mess with your thoughts.

How about fooling yourself less?  Start by stating truth statements to your thoughts.  Ask yourself why you had the thought.  Where did it come from?  Why are you entertaining different thoughts about a value or belief that is part of your strong foundation of life and faith?  Focus on what you know is true and your foundational beliefs.  Challenge your thoughts and tell yourself what is true and right and good.

To fool yourself less is not being hopeless or pessimistic, but it is being realistic.   It is also building trust in yourself and living in truth statements that align with your values, morals, and beliefs.  A fool believes popular media opinion as facts without putting any personal thought into it.  Research for yourself.  Talk with those you respect.  Pray for discernment.  How does the idea or thought reflect who you are and who you want to be?

Fooling yourself also involves believing the thoughts that nobody cares, you have no value, life is all bad, and down the negative rabbit hole of self-defeat.  You are thinking in an all or nothing view.  Fool yourself less through statements like “sometimes bad things happen, but good happens too.”  It is capturing your thoughts before you speak them and not allowing them to feed the negativity of anxiety and depression.  Fool yourself less by focusing on what is actually happening around you and name what is true.

Fool yourself less by accepting people for who they are and not living in what you expect or hoped they would be.  You cannot change another person.  You can only accept the person by how they currently behave and act.

Elaine’s website – www.livinginthedifferent.com

Inviting God to Today

“Always be joyful.  Pray without ceasing, and give thanks whatever happens.  That is what God wants for you in Christ Jesus.”  I Thessalonians 5:16-18

I talked with a friend recently who was concerned about a family wedding.  The bride was focused on the décor wanting to create the perfect Pinterest event.  There was no focus on the actual ceremony and the sacredness of the wedding.  I asked my friend, “Are you concerned that God is not invited to the wedding nor the marriage?”  She said, “Exactly. That’s it.”

This has made me ponder – Do we invite God to each day and each event and each relationship and each moment?  We may pray and “do” devotions.  We may go to worship.  We may even be involved in service to our community.  We may donate our time and resources to help others.  All of these are good.  All of these express ways of living out our faith and commitment to following Jesus.  But do we invite God into the moment we are doing all of these things and into the moments we are just living daily life?

I began to think about my week.  Each time I counsel, I pray for God’s Spirit to speak in and through me and even during the session, I ask God to guide me where I need to go and what I need to ask.  I invite God into my writing that the words on the page are His words and that God will use them to speak to someone.  But sometimes, my thoughts get off track and get lost going down a path that pulls me away from my focus on Jesus.  That is when I need to stop and say, “Hey, God, I forgot to take you with me.”  Are you inviting God into your work?

I found myself being more deliberate in making phone calls this week because I invited God to bring to mind people who needed a conversation or who needed to know I cared about what was going on in their lives.   I called many of my ninety-something friends to check on them and to let them know I cared, but I did not listen every time but got distracted with less important matters.  Are you inviting God into all your conversations and relationships?

I enjoyed a bike ride on the one day it did not rain and was sunny and warm enough to ride.  At first, my focus was only on the ride and sunshine, but when I invited God into the moment, I saw the beauty of His creation.  I saw an eagle, the beautiful white clouds, the geese, a jumping fish, and I relaxed in the beauty of God’s creation.  I breathed in God’s Spirit and breathed out any worries or frustrations.  When you invite God into your day, you see God’s presence and can give thanks.

I had lunch with my siblings this past week.  At first, I was focused on being the “cruise director” making sure everyone would show up and the conversation would be good.  Then, we prayed before the meal and invited God to be with us and to bless our conversation.  I relaxed and just accepted everyone for who they are and let it go.

I attended the visitation hours for a gentleman who was part of my childhood church experience.  Talking with his wife brought back childhood memories and also memories of my own grief journey.  The connection with the majority of the people present was church and family where God was present.  God had been invited and active in the life of my friend.  One of Fred’s legacies is the word “THINK.”  He challenged his students and those around him to think and use their God-given ability to work out the problems in his math class but also the problems of life.

To me, to think means to take a step back and pause.  It is asking yourself what is going on and what decision do I need to make here.  It is also inviting God into the situation to keep you focused on the moment, the solution, and the experience.

I attended the Bratwurst Festival and Parade where my niece was crowned 1st runner-up in the Bratwurst Festival Queen Pageant. I also had a nephew in the pizza eating contest before the parade.  So, you are wondering, what does the Festival have to do with inviting God?  It does.  It is inviting God into every moment of your life and relationships.  It was demonstrating God’s love and an aunt’s love by being present in the events that were important to my niece and nephew.  Giving hugs and showing how important they are by coming to events that were special to them.

It is not just praying to God, but inviting God to be with you and with those who you are praying for and the situations that you have no idea how to pray for.  It is inviting God to be with those who have been devastated by flooding.  It is inviting God to touch your heart and show you what to do and how to be of support.

Invite God into every thought and moment.  When you become anxious and worried, stop and THINK – oops, God, I did not invite you into this moment.  Come Jesus, Come.  Become intentional about inviting God.  God is with you and wants to be in your every thought and action.  “Hey, God, I invite you into my today.”

My website – www.livinginthedifferent.com

            Check out past blogs, books and newspaper articles

Life Through The Eyes of a 10-Year-Old

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me.  Don’t stop them, because the kingdom of God belongs to people who are like these children.”  Mark 10:14

This past week, I spent a day again with my niece, Raya who is 10-years-old.  It was another planned “Raya Day” with one of the goals to go school shopping.  The adventure turned out to be a reflective time about life from the perspective of a child.

Raya came to our house looking very tired.  She hugged me but was not her usual energetic self.  She had not slept well because of the thoughts that kept going around in her mind.  She needed a nap before we began our adventure so Raya slept for an hour.  Do you know when you are too tired to go on and just need a nap?  Many times, we just push through and do not listen to the needs of our bodies.  We think it is impossible to find time to nap, but our bodies were not made to be in overdrive all the time.  Just a five-minute rest to close our eyes and settle our souls does wonders for our attitude and outlook on life.  It also gives us time to rest our thoughts and focus on God’s presence.

Raya ate a small but healthy breakfast – orange juice and a banana which helped her regain her joy and strength.  Later that day for a snack, she had cottage cheese.  She knew all of this was healthy for her.  Sometimes, we know what is good for us, but we do not make the healthy choice or it is not in our home.  It is also having someone that guides us to make better choices.  God wants us to depend on Him in making our choices not the world or advertising.  Our bodies our God’s temple, choose wisely. 

As we entered the store, we had a plan. Raya had a style in her head that she wanted for her clothes.  She did not want to dress and look like the “popular” or “mean” girls.  She knew what she liked and quickly found her outfits for school.  She was decisive, focused, and able to put clothes together with a little guidance from her aunt.  Once we arrived home, Raya had a great time trying on the outfits and having a little style show.

As I reflect on this time, Raya, even at her young age, knows who she is right now.  It is choosing what you like and being who you are.  It is not depending on others to choose for you or define what you like or what you should do.  Use your God-given ability to make your decisions.  It is following the words of Scripture in Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to this world, but be transformed.”  Or as another version states – “Do not change yourself to be like the people of this world, but be changed within by a new way of thinking.”

We had lunch with my cousins, and they rode to the restaurant in their slingshot bike.  My cousin, Dan, offered Raya a ride around the parking lot in it.  Her eyes got real big and she was unsure about it.  It was scary to try something new, but she did it scared and loved it.  She was excited to share about her adventure later with her dad.  A child teaches us that sometimes we have to do things scared.  It may be something we want to do, an experience that looks exciting, a new thing that we never thought about doing, but we take the step and try it.  Being scared and anxious should not stop us from trying.  We miss out on a lot of the adventures of life if we only do what we have always done and not step out of our comfort zone.

Raya has an ornery and teasing part of her.  She loves to have fun and smile and laugh and lovingly tease others.  She is able to hold a conversation with anyone and enjoys sharing about what she thinks is important.  Being ten, she does not have good boundaries and can go too far in the ornery category.  She needs her aunt to set the boundaries and pull her back.  Don’t we all need help in setting boundaries and can get off track at times.  God sets good boundaries out of His love for us.  God guides us and protects us and helps us stay on track through His Word and through His Holy Spirit.

It is a joy to have a conversation with a ten-year-old, she knows the difference between right and wrong and what is good and bad and what is healthy and not healthy.  She will defend her friends and is comfortable being who God created her to be.  Raya is growing in her faith and love for Jesus.

As I reflect on life through the eyes of a ten-year-old, I want to hold to the truth of Jesus’ words – “You must accept the kingdom of God as if you were a little child.” (Mark 10:15).  It is enjoying the adventures of life. Doing life even when you are scared. Trusting God even when you do not understand.  Being who God created you to be.  Ask questions.  Talk to people.  Try new flavors of ice cream.  Be a little ornery and laugh and find the joy in life.  It is also good to have someone to walk beside and share in the joys of life together!

Check out my books, past blogs and newspaper articles on my website – www.livinginthedifferent.com

Life Through The Eyes of a 10-Year-Old

 Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me.  Don’t stop them, because the kingdom of God belongs to people who are like these children.”  Mark 10:14

This past week, I spent a day again with my niece, Raya who is 10-years-old.  It was another planned “Raya Day” with one of the goals to go school shopping.  The adventure turned out to be a reflective time about life from the perspective of a child.

Raya came to our house looking very tired.  She hugged me but was not her usual energetic self.  She had not slept well because of the thoughts that kept going around in her mind.  She needed a nap before we began our adventure so Raya slept for an hour.  Do you know when you are too tired to go on and just need a nap?  Many times, we just push through and do not listen to the needs of our bodies.  We think it is impossible to find time to nap, but our bodies were not made to be in overdrive all the time.  Just a five-minute rest to close our eyes and settle our souls does wonders for our attitude and outlook on life.  It also gives us time to rest our thoughts and focus on God’s presence.

Ray ate a small but healthy breakfast – orange juice and a banana which helped her regain her joy and strength.  Later that day for a snack, she had cottage cheese.  She knew all of this was healthy for her.  Sometimes, we know what is good for us, but we do not make the healthy choice or it is not in our home.  It is also having someone that guides us to make better choices.  God wants us to depend on Him in making our choices not the world or advertising.  Our bodies our God’s temple, choose wisely. 

As we entered the store, we had a plan. Raya had a style in her head that she wanted for her clothes.  She did not want to dress and look like the “popular” or “mean” girls.  She knew what she liked and quickly found her outfits for school.  She was decisive, focused, and able to put clothes together with a little guidance from her aunt.  Once we arrived home, Raya had a great time trying on the outfits and having a little style show.

As I reflect on this time, Raya, even at her young age, knows who she is right now.  It is choosing what you like and being who you are.  It is not depending on others to choose for you or define what you like or what you should do.  Use your God-given ability to make your decisions.  It is following the words of Scripture in Romans 12:2 – “Do not conform to this world, but be transformed.”  Or as another version states – “Do not change yourself to be like the people of this world, but be changed within by a new way of thinking.”

We had lunch with my cousins, and they rode to the restaurant in their slingshot bike.  My cousin, Dan, offered Raya a ride around the parking lot in it.  Her eyes got real big and she was unsure about it.  It was scary to try something new, but she did it scared and loved it.  She was excited to share about her adventure later with her dad.  A child teaches us that sometimes we have to do things scared.  It may be something we want to do, an experience that looks exciting, a new thing that we never thought about doing, but we take the step and try it.  Being scared and anxious should not stop us from trying.  We miss out on a lot of the adventures of life if we only do what we have always done and not step out of our comfort zone.

Raya has an ornery and teasing part of her.  She loves to have fun and smile and laugh and lovingly tease others.  She is able to hold a conversation with anyone and enjoys sharing about what she thinks is important.  Being ten, she does not have good boundaries and can go too far in the ornery category.  She needs her aunt to set the boundaries and pull her back.  Don’t we all need help in setting boundaries and can get off track at times.  God sets good boundaries out of His love for us.  God guides us and protects us and helps us stay on track through His Word and through His Holy Spirit.

It is a joy to have a conversation with a ten-year-old, she knows the difference between right and wrong and what is good and bad and what is healthy and not healthy.  She will defend her friends and is comfortable being who God created her to be.  Raya is growing in her faith and love for Jesus.

As I reflect on life through the eyes of a ten-year-old, I want to hold to the truth of Jesus’ words – “You must accept the kingdom of God as if you were a little child.” (Mark 10:15).  It is enjoying the adventures of life. Doing life even when you are scared. Trusting God even when you do not understand.  Being who God created you to be.  Ask questions.  Talk to people.  Try new flavors of ice cream.  Be a little ornery and laugh and find the joy in life.  It is also good to have someone to walk beside and share in the joys of life together!

Check out my books, past blogs and newspaper articles on my website – www.livinginthedifferent.com

Where Did This Month Go?

 “Be very careful, then how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity.”  Ephesians 5:15-16

As a new month begins, I become reflective about the past month and how the days were spent and did I live fully into those days.  I keep a journal and write down the highlights of each day, and then at the end of the month we review the month and the memories.  Time seems to go by quickly, and sometimes we forget all that we have enjoyed and experienced.

July was the 250th Anniversary celebration of our country.  Many of you watched parades and fireworks.  You may have attended a historical event, prayed for our country, recited the pledge of allegiance, or listened to patriotic music.  In some form, you celebrated the birth of our nation.  July is also my birthday month.  I celebrated with ice cream! 

My July was filled with counseling, bike rides, baking chocolate chip cookies, ice cream socials, funerals, visits, siblings’ lunch, cleaning windows, sorting memorabilia, phone calls, writing, laundry, worship, running, devotions, and the list goes on.  I know where the month went when I read through my calendar.  There were needed tasks to be completed and additional cleaning and organizing chores added.

When you are asked, “So, what have you been up to lately?”  What is your response?  Do you respond that you have been busy and describe the tasks that you have completed?  Our focus is usually on what we have accomplished.  Being busy is celebrated in our society, but busyness is not always healthy and how life is to be lived.  Do you ever respond that you enjoyed some rest and time with those you love?

I have always been a list maker and a task accomplisher.  I feel good about marking items off the list but invariably the tasks need to be repeated and the list is never finished.  Recently, we did a task focused week and wrote down what needed to be completed.  We did the list, but we also enjoyed time in between the tasks like bike riding, eating out, time with family and friends.  Tasks are important, but there needs to be a balance.

So, I am trying to change my focus from tasks to experiences, adventures, and relationships.  When I reflect on the month of July with the focus on relationships, my heart is full.  I celebrated the life of two dear ladies in their nineties with gratefulness for their legacy and love.  I am thankful I had the opportunity to know them and their influence lives on in my life.  I am grateful for time with family and friends and to linger in conversation with my ninety-something friends.

Adventures and experiences are what make memories, not usually the tasks.  We biked over 350 miles around our area and enjoyed the beauty of God’s creation.  We took advantage of the beautiful days and even the clouds did not deter us from riding.  Sometimes, the simplest of things, brings joy and fulfillment. 

I visited a dear family friend twice in July, and through my time with her and our conversation, I learned more about my mom and my grandma and felt closer to them.  I listened to another elderly friend tell stories of his life and I felt blessed to know such a gentleman.  I spent a day with my 10-year-old niece and guided her through some of the history of my family and the foundation of our faith.  She experienced her history and heard the stories as we visited the cemetery, the family church, the hospital, and explored the town and hid little Jesus’ all over the area.

I had the opportunity to preach at The Old Mission Church in my hometown one Sunday morning.  The church was the first Methodist Church to the Wyandotte Indians.  It has been restored.  It is a humbling experience to preach and worship where the early Indians first received the message of Jesus from the missionary, John Stewart.  It is amazing history that you can miss when you do not focus on the adventures and experiences around you.

Yes, tasks need to be completed, but do not allow this, new month to go so quickly and pass by without enjoying some adventures and experiences.  Make the most of every opportunity God gives you to enjoy His creation and to listen to the stories of those around you.  Make the visit.  Bake the cookies and share them with someone who needs a conversation.  Get some movement if possible, too.  Enjoy the simple things of life.  Find joy and fulfillment in life.  Don’t let it pass you by.

Make the most of every opportunity God gives to you.

Check out my past blogs, newspaper columns and books on my website – www.livinginthedifferent.com

The Pattern and Fabric of Life

“When they are old, they will still produce fruit; they will be healthy and fresh.”  Psalm 92:14

I had the honor and privilege of officiating at the Celebration of Life of a special lady, Marilyn, this past week.  Marilyn was ninety-nine and a half years old and lived life fully with quiet strength, determination, and love.  She was a quilter for half of her life and a portion of her quilts were displayed at her service and is the picture with this blog.  She made quilts for each family member and prayer quilts for those in need.  She loved to work with fabric and create or follow a pattern to design each unique quilt.

Marilyn’s life and legacy is a pattern of life to follow.  She used fabric to make quilts that she chose carefully, and her fabric of life was her faith in Jesus who she intentionally chose to follow.  Her legacy continues in her family and those she served.  Marilyn loved Jesus, loved her family, and gave her gift of service to others.

My first memory of Marilyn was her radiant smile.  Her joy for life shined through her smile.  She sat with a group of older widowed ladies in worship.  I greeted one of them, Martha, with a hug one Sunday and Marilyn said, “Where’s my hug?”  And from that Sunday on, I hugged the entire row of ladies.  Marilyn wanted to be included in those expressions of love and care.

Marilyn taught throughout her life, though not a teacher by profession, but a teacher in how she lived her life adjusting to the changing patterns.  She grew up on a farm which established her strong work ethic.  Marilyn told me once, “Life happens and you just keep going.”  She never stopped living and serving her entire adult life.  Her perseverance and strength came from the Lord.

Marilyn lived out Psalm 92:14 for as she aged, she continued to be productive, healthy and stay engaged in life.  She even drove her “old” friends who no longer could drive a vehicle.  She was still driving at age ninety-eight.  Marilyn’s life had purpose and meaning through her service to others, her church, and to God no matter her age. 

The fabric and pattern of life changed throughout her life – the design was different – but it still created a beautiful life that shared her love, gifts, and faith.  As her granddaughter said, “She lived love every single day.”

So, what is the pattern of your life?  To make a quilt, Marilyn either used an existing pattern or developed one of her own in order to create a beautiful tapestry.  Her life pattern was designed by her Creator and Savior, Jesus.  She surrendered her heart and life to Jesus and allowed Jesus to design her life. 

We need to allow our Creator God and Designer to create our pattern for life.  It will be unique and different than anyone else’s life.  Even though quilters follow the same pattern, their unique touches will make the tapestry unique based on their gifts and special touches. It is the same in our lives.  Even though we each follow the pattern of Jesus through His Word and the guidance of His Holy Spirit, each of our lives will look different because of our own unique touches.

What is the fabric of your life?  The fabric is what you see – your outward life and appearance.  It is how the pattern of the Holy Spirit is revealed to others.  Fabric comes in an abundance of colors, designs, and textures.  Just like the fabric expresses the uniqueness of the pattern, the pattern of your life creates the fabric into its purpose and beauty.

God weaved beauty and purpose into the fabric of Marilyn’s life.  Her life and legacy lives on in the hearts of all she touched.  God weaves beauty into the fabric of our lives, too. 

My website – www.livinginthedifferent.com

Finding Your Place Now

Jesus said, “I am going there to prepare a place for you.”  John 14:2

We have three fawns that are currently living during the day in our backyard.  The momma drops them off in the morning and comes back later in the day to pick them up.  It feels like we are babysitting deer.  The three have found their place in our yard – close to the house next to our office window.  They lay in the mulch and leaves.  Their indentations are in the mulch.  It is so sweet that they have found a comfortable place in our wooded yard.

In my hometown over the past two weeks, we have participated in two ice cream socials and a luncheon.  After getting our food, it is finding a place to sit.  I have sat with family and friends and have had wonderful conversations.  It is choosing a place.  Sometimes a person will say, “I saved it just for you.”  Now that makes you feel wanted and special.

Finding a parking place sometimes is a challenge especially during a busy time or busy area.  Someone pulled out of one recently and I found a place to park that was convenient.  Other times, you find a place a distance away and choose the attitude of enjoying the extra walk.

We find our place in our families too.  Our place is like our role or responsibility in the family.  The place in the family is sometimes based on birth order, personality, your gifts and talents, or just your ability to get along with others.  Your place in the family can also be your own choice.  It depends on how involved you choose to be, how willing you are to be available to help and support, and how much other listen to you and trust your word and guidance.

It is finding your place in your social groups and friend groups.  You may be the organizer and have the role of getting everyone together and making the plans.  You may follow the crowd.  You may desire to have a social group and have not found your place.  My cousin, who moved back to her hometown a couple years ago, is searching for her place in relationships.  It is difficult to break into already established groups and relationships.

We also have to find our place in the Church.  It is choosing where you want to serve and give of your gifts and talents in the fellowship of believers.  It is finding your place in your faith.  There can be a feeling of not fitting in or even not being welcome.  It may even feel like there is judgment or a lack of acceptance.  It is difficult finding our place in this world and in relationships with others.  It is trying to fit in without compromising who we are or allowing others to be in control.

In each season of life, we need to find our place – our role and who we are now that life has changed.  Finding your place when you feel empty or lost or unsure is difficult without someone to be your guide.  That is why Jesus tells us in the Gospel of John that he prepares a place for us.  Not just a place in Heaven where we will be with Him forever, but also a place with Him now.  Jesus gives us direction in finding a place – “I am the way and the truth, and the life.”

The ultimate finding our place is with God.  God wants us to find Him and to be with Him.  Sometimes, we feel we have to find our way on our own and earn a place with God.  God calls us His children and provides the perfect way to Him through Jesus and the cross.  Jesus died for our sins.  We are forgiven and given the gift of salvation and eternal life.

But so often, we struggle with the simplicity of grace.  It is free, and it is a gift.  God seems distant and Heaven seems unattainable.  We complicate the relationship and think we have to understand and figure it all out.  That is what faith really is – a trust that you don’t have to know it all to believe it all.  It is finding your place as a child who is loved by a Heavenly Father who is good and faithful.

You fit in with God because God chose you.  God accepts you.  God has a place just for you.  When you feel like you don’t fit in or have a place in your family or among those around you, remember God always has a place for you. 

www.livinginthedifferent.com

The Simple Music of Life

“As for me, I call to God, and the Lord saves me.”  Psalm 55:16

Heaven continues to get sweeter and sweeter this year as another dear friend, Sharon, took the journey home.  My connection with Sharon began with her family and then with her involvement in the Vesper Services at the facility where she lived.  My connections were many, but our bond of friendship was in the deep and confidential conversations we shared over the years.  Sharon trusted me with her heart and as a person she could process through what was going on in her life and in the life of her family.

Trust is the basis of all relationships.  It is in this trust that we share deeply and create a bond that nothing can separate.  Trust is knowing the person lives what they say and loves without condition or judgment.  When you trust someone, you can be open and vulnerable.  My friendship with Sharon had the foundation of trust. 

Her life and legacy were built on trust.  Sharon trusted Jesus and gave her heart and life to Jesus.  Sharon loved Jesus and simply and quietly lived her faith through her love and actions.  Sharon loved her family fiercely, and they trusted her to always be there for them and to love them no matter the circumstances.  Sharon loved the simple things of life.

In Sharon’s Celebration of Life Service, music was central.  Sharon had a love for music that she instilled in her family especially her son, Phil.  Sharon had the desire for a music career but life took a different direction.  Her desire was fulfilled through her son, Phil.  I got to know Sharon as she played for the Vesper Services when I would assist the Chaplain.  Music flowed through her fingers.

At her service, Michael sang “If I Sing” by Richard Muenz which moved my heart deeply.  Phil said it expressed his relationship with his mom.  I began to ponder some of the words of the song – “If I sing you are the music, if I love you taught me how.  Every day your heart is beating in the man that I am now…. I never told you.  It took time till I could see that if I sing you are the music and you’ll always sing in me.  Yes, you’ll always live in me.”

For Sharon’s family, she was the foundation of music.  She gave them the gift of music not just in notes on a page, but the music of love, the music of shared meals and delicious food, the music of laughter and joy, the music of Jesus, the music of enjoying the simple things of life.  She was the music that helped them sing, that gave them a voice to become who God created them to be.

Jesus is the music of our lives.  Jesus creates the rhythm of our lives.  A rhythm is a strong, intentional movement that guides the flow and pace.  It is the underlying pulse.  It is a regular pattern that is natural and continuous like heartbeats.  We can only sing if Jesus gives us the music which Jesus does in the Bible and through His Holy Spirit.

Sharon’s legacy of love for Jesus, others and the simple things of life come from Jesus being the music of her own life.  Is Jesus the music of your life?  It is not just listening to music or singing the words of songs, but allowing the rhythm of the music to become your natural pattern of life.  It is allowing Jesus to guide your pace and flow of life.  Everything you say and do, goes through the beat of Jesus.

We tend to complicate our faith and our lives with activities, worries, anxieties, an abundance of tasks and make our faith complicated with so many expectations.  When we do this, we lose the music and gentle rhythm of salvation and grace.  It’s simple – God loves you.  God sent Jesus to die for your sins.  You believe and accept and sing for Jesus.  Simple.  Listen to the music.  Surrender control to Jesus and follow His rhythm of life.

It takes time to see that if you sing, it is because of those who leave a legacy of love.  Their love will always sing and live in you.

It takes time to see that if you sing, it is because Jesus is the music.  Allow Jesus to be the music – the rhythm of your life – and you will always sing, that is, live in his love and grace and glorify Him.  It’s that simple.

Listen to the music.

Elaine J. Sturtz

www.livinginthedifferent.com

Check out my other blogs and newspaper articles and books on my website.

My Spring Reflections

 “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”  Psalm 19:14

The Spring rains have come.  The fields are planted.  The new birth of creation is growing.  God’s Word is alive.  I continue to reflect in my morning devotions, and God continues to reveal His presence through His Word and the word shared by others.  I hope you will reflect on what touched my heart this Spring.  Here is some of the thoughts I wrote in my journal -

We should never lose the sense of wonder that God’s love for us is so undeserved but given freely.

Jesus said, “It is finished.” There is nothing left for you to add to the cross.  Nothing left for you to earn, to prove.  The debt is paid.  You can stop striving for what is already secured – your salvation.

Prayer makes us wait as we give the situation to God.  Prayer quiets my heart. You cannot pray and worry at the same time.  Prayer is an act of trust.

God provides for me places of rest and enjoyment in everyday life where He restores me.

Good deeds are evidence of God’s Spirit working in and through us.

God is not asking us to keep up, He is asking us to slow down and meet Him.

God doesn’t answer to our schedule.  God invites us into His.

It is in the quieter rhythm we find God’s voice, presence, and peace.

There is a longing, an emptiness in us to desire the fullness of joy with Jesus.  It will be fulfilled in Heaven when we see Jesus face to face.

To completely trust in God’s work rather than our own is our ultimate Sabbath rest.

Stop spending time on decisions that are not yours to make.

Our first reaction to people and circumstances tell who we really are.

Jesus forgives our sin even before we commit it.

God knows the darkness of my life and doesn’t flinch or push me away – God just moves closer.

Trust is not built on knowing the road ahead.  It is built on knowing the One who walks with you.

It is not the size of your faith that matters but the object of your faith – Jesus.

Confession is telling God what you did.  It is not that God doesn’t already know, but the two of you need to agree.  (Max Lucado)

When God called you – God knew your past sins and your future sins – and He still chose you and called you.

We are always in God’s line of sight.  We won’t miss out on anything God has planned for us to experience.

When we take a wrong turn, God’s grace gently redirects not with shame but with guidance.

You are not what happened to you, you are what you choose to become.

Nothing surprises God.  We question “why?” but God is working even in senseless tragedy.

Peace is the gift of God in the middle of the chaos and storm.  It is not the reward after the storm.

It is exhausting trying to be your own Savior.

We may possess things, but God owns them all.

Our hope is not in our performance but in God’s open arms of grace.

We are to walk in moment-by-moment dependence upon the Holy Spirit.

God, not other people, are in charge of our situations and life.

Hope is a quiet, stubborn conviction that the light at the end is real, even when you cannot see it yet.

My hope is that one of these statements will resonate with you and help you on your journey closer to Jesus.

Check out all my blogs and newspaper articles on my website – www.livinginthedifferent.com

My Anchors Are Aging

“When they are old, they will still produce fruit; they will be healthy and fresh.”  Psalm 92:14

I listened to Charlotte Leeth, dressed as a Revolutionary War era lady, share about the women and their work and influence during the early years of the formation of our country.  Her knowledge and authenticity transported the audience back in time.  Mrs. Leeth, as I refer to her, was my ninth grade English teacher.  I credit her for beginning my writing journey.  She encouraged me as a teenager and saw potential in me which influenced me to write several books.  Mrs. Leeth edited my last book – Live Different Moments. Since you are reading this blog, you can thank Mrs. Leeth too.  Her influence is still producing fruit.

My life has been impacted by the encouraging words of my teacher.  Mrs. Leeth will be ninety-eight years on this earth in a few weeks.  Her life has been fruitful in great and small ways.  She has made a difference in her students and her community and in her faith and mission trips.  I am privileged to be counted among those she has influenced.  Age is just a number to her.  She remains active and full of joy and life.

I had lunch with my friend, Dwight, who is in the season of his 90’s.  He has been like an adopted dad to me since I served as a youth minister in my early twenties. Always a gentleman, always the same constant man, always strong in his faith and his love.  He told me that he has had a good life and has been blessed.  He has been a strong foundation for the church and for those he has mentored.  He wonders why his is still here on earth.  For me, he is an anchor – always steady and sure.  I need people who are consistent, strong, never waver in their faith, and always love.  Dwight always says “Love you back” when I say “I love you.”  He always loves me back.  Now, that is a great legacy and wonderful fruit.  To always be loved back.  That makes a difference.

Ginny is preparing to leave this world whenever God calls her.  She tells me she has lived long enough at age ninety-four.  She is ready to join her daughter, Jan, in heaven.  She wants to make sure all the paperwork is completed so her granddaughter does not have to worry or figure it out.  She has also told me she has waited until warmer weather in the cemetery so I do not have to officiate at her service in the cold.  Ginny’s life still bears fruit because she is teaching how to prepare and not leave work behind for others to complete.  Completion and practicality are good fruit.

So many of my dearest friends are in their 90’s and still going strong.  I value their wisdom, and I so enjoy listening to their stories and the sharing of their memories that they hold close to their hearts.  They have lived a long and full life filled with joys and sorrows, challenges and accomplishments, and have survived to share their knowledge and faith.  Yes, all of them are grounded in their commitment to Jesus as their Savior and Lord.

It is amazing conversation to talk about Heaven with those who are preparing to take the journey whenever God calls them home.  My friends wonder why they are still here and are ready to walk into Heaven.  They feel like they have fulfilled their purpose and because of their aging bodies do not feel productive.  But they are anchors for those who follow them.  We need people who live the values of integrity, commitment, consistency, respect, and are grounded in their faith and love for Jesus.

Heaven keeps getting sweeter as my dear friends take the journey home.  I am never ready to let them go, but I am always happy for them.  They will get to see Jesus face to face and be rewarded for their earthly labor.

Anchor yourself in Jesus and allow those who have travelled farther on the journey to be your guide to Jesus.

Check out my Newspaper Articles and past blogs and my books on my website – www.livinginthedifferent.com

A Place For You

My people will live in peaceful places and in safe homes and in calm places of rest.”  Isaiah 32:18

This month, I have been watching two nephews play baseball and a niece play softball.  It is a joy to watch young children learn to play a sport and attempt to hit the ball.  There is excitement on their faces when they actually hit the ball and run the bases, but what thrills each player is to cross Homeplate and score a run.  One of my nephews, Avery, does a little dance when he touches each base, and when he touches Homeplate the joy and excitement flow from him.  Being home is the goal.

Recently, I talked with my dear friend Dwight who moved into a new home.  He is enjoying his new place because it is comfortable, peaceful, and he is surrounded by the possessions that are important to him.  He has made the space his own and enjoys sitting on his porch in the morning drinking his coffee.  His friend told him that he is “nesting” in his place.  It is home, and Dwight prefers being home.  He has found contentment being home.

I spent a day at home without counseling, a project, or anything on my agenda.  It felt good to be home – in my house and not having to be connected with media or people.  I sat in the sunshine and just lingered in the peacefulness of the woods around me.  I was aware of God’s presence all around me and felt the contentment of being peaceful with no great purpose but to just be present and enjoy being home.

I live in my hometown.  It is where I was born, graduated from High School, and where generations of my family have lived and currently live.  It is my place of origin, where memories have been created, where family has lived, died, and are buried in the family cemetery.  It is where the church is that I grew up in, and the church still remains active.  It is where I first learned about Jesus.  It is where my Grandma lived.  It is peaceful, comfortable, safe and secure, and where I belong.  My hometown is a peaceful Hallmark type of town where every time you go somewhere, you know somebody.  People talk to each other, smile, and life is at a slower pace. It is home.

What is home?  Home is where you are comfortable and feel safe and secure.  When you come home from work, a trip, or from an outing, it feels good to be home.  You relax and everything is familiar and it is yours.  You have the freedom to be yourself and create the space to be what you want it to be.  You sleep in your own bed, and you can eat what you want and make your own choices what to do.  This is the ideal view of home.  Not everyone has this feeling and contentment in the house where they reside.

I enjoy taking trips and exploring new places and having adventures.  It is relaxing to go to the beach and enjoy the sunrises and sunsets.  I eat different food and stay in a place that provides the basics of what I need.  But it always feels good to come home and sleep in my own bed with my own pillow and use my own bathroom.  Home is a place where I am surrounded with the familiar.

Home is more than a house filled with possessions.  Home is a feeling of family, belonging, familiarity, a place of origin that creates the feelings of peace and contentment.  Are you home with God?  Our place of origin is with God – we are created in God’s image and we belong to God.  God loves us as his children.  But sometimes, we are uncomfortable with God and do not believe God will love us because of what we have done or that we are not good enough for his love and acceptance.  When we finally surrender to Jesus and know that He loves us, died for us, and has a place for us, only then can we be home with God.  It is not about being perfect, but it is about accepting Jesus’ love and grace.

Jesus has prepared a home for us in Heaven.  When we die, Jesus will come and take us home to be with Him forever.  We long for a place where we are loved, where there is freedom to be who we are, where there is no pain, no sorrow, no struggles, and that is Home in Heaven.  Many of my friends have gone Home to Heaven this year. 

Are you at home with yourself? It is being grateful for who you are.  It is forgiving yourself and not absorbing or trying to fix everyone around you.  It is not expecting others to validate you and give you happiness.  You can have peace and contentment in your heart and be at home.  Slow yourself down and look at what you are trying to do in life.

To be home with God now on earth is to be so familiar with God that you talk together throughout the day.  Wherever you are, God is with you.  God’s presence is in you through the Holy Spirit.  Jesus’ Spirit makes His home in your heart.

“Jesus answered, “If people love me, they will obey my teaching.  My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.”   John 14:23

Our world can be a scary place filled with pain, hurt, heartache and sadness.  It is not allowing yourself to make all this negativity, anxiety and fear so familiar that you make your home there.  Home is where your heart is.  Be at home in Jesus.  Allow Jesus to be the most familiar to you and your place of peace and contentment. 

Living In The Dailyness

“This is the day which the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”  Psalm 118:24

Every morning as I begin my run, I say this verse and surrender my day to the Lord.  The day is a gift from God and it is a blessing to be given this day.  You may wake up tired, sad, hurt, confused, anxious, and a hundred other feelings and emotions, but it is still a day given to you to be lived.  So are you living?  Yes, you are alive because you are reading this blog, but are you really living in the dailyness of life?

We live in this world where work is necessary, bills need to be paid, and commitments and responsibilities need to be fulfilled.  Life has daily tasks that seem endless and mundane without enjoyment.  You complete them because you have to and you grumble when you do them.  Life is busy but not fulfilling or enjoyable.  You may look forward to vacation or retirement or when life gets better.  So, what do you do now in the dailyness?

I believe each day is a gift from God and has a purpose.  Life may be hard and filled with heartache or pain.  It may not be what you want or expected, but this is the life you have right now.  You may be able to make some changes and take steps forward and make healthier choices.  Sometimes, we get into a rut or on a merry-go-round and every day is the same feelings and same tasks and same outlook.  There are choices.  Life sometimes gives us diseases and devastation that is not a choice.  Bad things happen.  Life is broken and fallen.

Life also has good.  It depends on outlook and attitude.  God is still good even when life falls apart.  God is still with you.  The Lord is still our Shepherd.  He still leads us even when it is through the valley of the shadow of death.  I talked with someone recently who shared the dark valley he had gone through.  It was tough and at times he thought God was not there.  He has made it through to the other side and now sees that God was with him.  He is grateful for what he went through because it has made him who he is now.  He has released the past and redeemed it and placed a boundary on the negative and the hurt.  He is living into the dailyness of life and finding rest and joy.

It is finding a moment of good in each day.  I have talked about looking up more often and taking a deep breath and breathing in the beauty of the sky and the clouds and having, for a moment, no responsibility but to enjoy the gift of God’s beauty and His presence.  We do not take these rest moments as often as we need to.  God provides places of rest and enjoyment in the dailyness of life but we tend to be too busy to pause and notice them.

While writing this blog, I just paused and enjoyed the beauty and innocence of a baby fawn resting in the ravine in our back yard.  The momma has left her little one hidden in a safe place.  I keep checking on it and enjoying the moment of being privileged to see nature in my backyard.  Sure, there are tasks and projects to complete, but there are also moments to enjoy.

It is finding moments of enjoyment in every day no matter your circumstances.  I am not denying your pain, problems or struggles.  It is finding life in your existence and living in your dailyness.  When you wait until you feel better, when you have more money, when all the tasks are complete, you will never get there.  Stop right now, look around you, what could bring a smile to you?  A good memory? A grateful heart?  A tear of sadness mingled with the joy of the memory?

It is not allowing the world to define you or your circumstances.  Joy and life are greater than this world and its hold on you.  Rest in God’s presence.  Allow God to give you rest in the moments.  Look for joy.  Live in the day.  Release what you cannot control.  Release your past and failures.  Receive God’s grace and mercy.  Allow yourself to live today.

Check out my book – Live Different Moments – for ways to live into this dailyness of life. All my books are available on Amazon or at Tea Story in Upper Sandusky.

Drinking In The Moments

Jesus said, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.”  John 7:38

We arrived home just in time to see momma deer with her new born taking nourishment among the trees in our backyard.  It was a moment that I just stopped and watched from the kitchen window - nature at its most innocent moment.  A little fawn drinking from its mother.  It was a moment that God allowed us to step into His creation and see the beauty of life and the trust of innocence.

My niece asked me if I wanted to hold her new granddaughter – my great niece who is just two and half weeks old.  Of course, I said yes.  I held her in worship as we sang praise songs.  A line in one of the songs as I held her was – “I am a child of God.”  I drank in that moment and felt the presence of God.  It was a holy moment to hold this precious child – a child of God - through the entire worship service as she fell asleep in my arms.  It is truly a miracle how God created humanity.  We are precious in His sight.  My soul was full.

I officiated at the funeral of a dear soul who now is singing in Heaven.  During the visitation, her granddaughter created a beautiful video of her grandmother.  One video showed Sue laughing and smiling with her great grandchildren.  I stood between the video and the casket.  Her body had no life, but her spirit of love and joy filled the room.  I drank in the moment.  Sue is alive in Heaven, and her love is alive in the hearts of all who loved her.

I visited my friend whose daughter died this year.  Her daughter was my dear friend.  We shared stories of her daughter, Jan, and talked about ways to celebrate her birthday by remembering how she lived.  Jan always knew what to do next for her mom.  But then, we told stories and I saw the laughter in the memories.  I drank in the moment that God had placed me right there to bring her joy for a moment in the midst of the sadness.

Then my next visit was with Dick.  His wife died three months after my husband, Dave.  Dick and I walked through grief together being connected to the same church.  We would hug each other in our grief and share those honest moments that others did not understand.  My visit began with a hug and ended with a hug.  It was a moment where I paused and absorbed the connection.  Words were not needed.

In my next visits, I experienced the need for conversation and understanding.  I listened and heard the need for connection and for someone to just care about who they are and where they are in life.  I heard regret.  I heard confusion.  I heard joy.  I heard need.  I sat in the moment and took into my heart my purpose God had for me in that moment.  Just to be present and to listen.

I officiated at the memorial service for the father of a friend.  As the VFW folded the flag and presented it to my friend, I took in the moment – the memory of receiving a flag.  I holy moment where tears flow freely without embarrassment. Then the taps were played and the moment became sweeter and holier.  I drank in the solemness and respect.  My soul was refreshed in the memory and the sacredness of the ceremony.

Then the ashes of my friend’s mom and dad were placed in linen bags and then buried in the memorial garden.  They were buried together and the ashes would be absorbed into the earth – ashes to ashes, dust to dust.  We came from the earth and to the earth we return.  My friend showed me a picture of her parents happy and laughing together.  They lived, they loved and they made a difference, and now their love is absorbed into their family and those touched in life by them.

What does it mean to drink?  We drink water and other fluids to keep our bodies hydrated and healthy.  The liquid is absorbed into our bodies, but it takes time.  It is drinking slowly and deliberately.  Our souls need to be hydrated and refreshed, too.  It is pausing in the sacred moments of life and any moment can be sacred when you are aware of the presence of God in the moment.  It is drinking in the moment, that is, slowing yourself down and being totally present in the moment.  It is using all your senses to truly be in the moment.  It is absorbing the holiness and being refreshed and renewed in it.

God wants us to slow down and meet Him in the moments of life.  It is not our schedule and timing but God’s.  When we pause and drink in the living water that Jesus gives, we truly find refreshment, peace and contentment.  We experience God in ways we had previously rushed past.  It is hydrating our souls with the life-giving moments that are holy and sacred all around us.

Drink in the moments of life and allow them to renew and refresh your soul.

Check out my website for my Newspaper Articles and my books – www.livinginthedifferent.com

Absolutely Positutely Fulfilled

Jesus said, “After I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me so that you may be where I am.”  John 14:3

I know Heaven is for real.  It is absolutely real because I know my friend, Sue, is singing with the angels now.  Sue took her last breath on earth recently and her next breath was in Heaven.  I know Sue is with Jesus because she gave her heart and life to Jesus years ago and lived her faith daily.  I believe because of my own faith and trust in Jesus. This year, Heaven has become sweeter and filled with some of the dear people of my life and ministry – Ed, Jack, Donna, John, Jan, Sue, and the list could go on and on.

I met Sue over thirty years ago when her daughter and family were our neighbors.  Sue and her husband, Don, sang in the choir in two churches where I was on staff.  Sue and Don were the sweetest couple who lived the joy of the Lord in their daily lives.  I enjoyed having them in my Sunday School class, too.  They were always willing to serve the Lord.  Sue was full of life, smiles, and loved life to the fullest. 

When dementia began to take Sue’s mind, it never took her joy and love for Jesus and cookies.  When I would visit with her over the past several years, I brought her chocolate chip cookies which she ate immediately.  We sang the hymns of our faith and talked about Jesus and going home to Heaven.  Sue’s favorite words to say when she agreed with something completely was “Absolutely Positutely.”  She said it makes people smile.  Her family told me it was something she said all her life.

Sue knew she was loved by God.  She made a life long commitment to follow Jesus.  When I would talk about Heaven, her eyes would be filled with tears of joy knowing she would see Jesus face to face.  One day as we talked about Heaven, Sue said, “It would be wonderful to go see Jesus.  Most best thing in all the world, absolutely positutely.”

Even in her dementia, Heaven was absolutely true and she was positutely going to see Jesus.  Her hope and belief were fulfilled when she breathed her last on earth and ran into the arms of Jesus in Heaven.  I am absolutely positutely sure Sue is with Jesus.  Jesus gave His life for Sue and for each one of us.  Sue accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior.  She loved Jesus.  Her heart was filled with songs to worship Jesus.  Her smile radiated the love for Jesus that was in her heart.  Sue loved life even in its brokenness.

While dementia is a terrible disease and was difficult for her family, it helped Sue in the loss of her dear husband.  She did not go through the grief continuously.  She just accepted that her husband was at work or away on a trip.  She missed him but knew it was something he had to do.  She remembered him as he had always been.  He was still alive in her heart, just away for a while.

This is true of death. Our loved one’s love is still alive in our hearts, and they are alive in Heaven.  We are just apart for a period of time, but we will be reunited in Heaven.  Having the assurance of Heaven brings peace in the midst of our grief.  We will always miss them and miss sharing the moments of life with them.  Jesus tells us in the Gospel of John not to be troubled or afraid but to trust His Word.  He is preparing a place for all who believe in Him, and He will come back and take them to be where He is.

Do you believe in Heaven?  Is it absolutely positutely true for you?  We have the assurance when we trust in Jesus.  For me, Heaven is where Jesus is and that is what is most important.  Sometimes, religious words cloud our view of Heaven.  Mansions and streets of gold and angels may not seem like where you want to go.  It is remembering that John was trying to describe the indescribable in earthly language using what was the most elaborate and beautiful he knew to give us a picture of Heaven.

Heaven is where there are no more tears, no pain, no hurt, no evil, no sin.  It is perfect.  It is home.  To me, Heaven is the perfect Garden of Eden and is filled with all that God has created.  We receive a glimpse of Heaven on earth through nature – the beauty of the sky, the clouds, the trees, the animals and all that grows.

As I remember Sue, I smile and know she is whole and free from dementia and the weight of this world.  Sue loved to sing and I am sure she is singing in Heaven.  My friend, Jan, I know is in Heaven and singing along with Sue.  As I think of Heaven, I begin to name those I know who are in Heaven – my Grandma, my mom, my dad, my husband, Dave, Sue, Jan, and the list goes on and on.  It brings me joy to know that I will see Jesus face to face and be surrounded by those who came before me.

Heaven is real – Absolutely Positutely!  Trust Jesus.  Take Jesus at His Word.

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Living In The Different

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                   Life Lessons of a Lone Trooper

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The Smile of Hope

“I say this because I know what I am planning for you,” says the Lord.  “I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you.  I will give you hope and a good future.”  Jeremiah 29:11

God smiled upon my day.  The clouds broke into sunshine and the rain moved out of the area.  Spring flowers were in bloom, and the trees clapped their leaves in the breeze.  All of nature was alive and yes, this added to my happy day.  But hope was what filled my heart.

The first smile was the hope of Heaven to come and release a dear one from the bond of dementia that has ravaged her mind and body.  It was praying with her that God would grant her mercy and receive her soon into Heaven.  She loves Jesus with her whole heart and is so ready to go be with Jesus.  My prayer was a prayer of hope and belief that in Heaven my friend will be whole again and live forever.  I prayed for her to keep turning the eyes of heart to Jesus and Jesus would take her home.  Our hope was real because we both believe in Heaven.

The evening was filled with an abundance of smiles as hope was fulfilled.  My friend, Tamara had experienced the death of her beloved husband and after several years of being alone she wanted to share life again with a partner.  Her dating experiences were never hopeful, but they were definitely entertaining to listen to.  She wondered if she would ever meet someone she could enjoy life with again.  Keith had lost all hope of finding someone to share life with after experiencing hurt and rejection.  Then God brought them together.  It was definitely God because their second “date” was going to Church together.  Hope turned into reality.

I had the privilege of officiating at their wedding which filled my heart with joy.  I was so happy to see two people who had experienced loss and hurt, now find love in this new season of life.  In their vows they promised to “enjoy the adventures God has for them together.”  That is hope.  They want to live and experience what God places in front of them, not just work and exist.  Each day is a gift.  Each day they ask – “What’s our adventure for today?”

Hope is what you long for even when it seems impossible.  Life hurts and relationships break and death happens.  Many times, we have no choice and are left to figure out how to put the pieces of our lives together again.  They will go together differently and life will never look exactly the same.  But that does not mean you cannot enjoy life and find a new direction.  God promises that He will give us hope and a good future.

The ultimate hope is Heaven.  Those of us who have experienced the death of a loved one, place our hope and faith in the promises that our loved ones are now living in Heaven.  While we will always grieve and miss them here on earth, we know they are living in Heaven with Jesus and someday we will join them.  We also know that we need to live here on earth in this different life.  We both are living.

Hope is about the future, but it is also about living now in the adventures and experiences God has for us.  Hope involves trust.  It is believing life has purpose and joy, and it is trusting in a loving God who has these gifts planned for us.  Life is sharing this trust with someone who is excited to live in this hope.

I am choosing to smile every day.  Yes, life is hard and has pain and struggles and diagnoses and traumas that hurt.  But life also has hope when you put your trust in God.  Death happens.  Love never ends.  We still have life to live here on earth.  Don’t give up.  We are to live not just exist.  Find life again.  Tamara and Keith found hope and life and adventure, and I am blessed to be a part of it. 

Hope is the belief that good will happen.  It is the expectation that God is at work in our world and in our lives.  Hope knows God is good.  God is with us.  Hope is moving closer and closer each day to Jesus.  Hope is trusting God has it and you do not need to worry or be anxious about anything.  Hope is believing God works everything out for His purpose.  Hope is knowing that whatever happens, God will someday take you to live with Him in Heaven.  Hope is taking the step into life everyday knowing God is already there.

Smile.  God has you.  Enjoy the adventure called life.  Find the good.  Remember God is good.  God loves you.

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Revealings From The Beach

“And the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all people will see it together.  For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”  Isaiah 40:5

I recently spent some time at the beach.  It is my place to pause, relax, refresh, and re-focus.  I ran and walked on the beach.  I biked the paths and sat in a beach chair and listened to God speak in the beauty of His creation all around me. God reveals amazing insights and discoveries when we listen.

Listening was what God revealed to me first.  My prayers were less words and more listening.  I listened to the waves, the breeze, the rain, even the silence.  God’s glory was revealed in it all.  To reveal is to make something known, to disclose.  God makes Himself and His will and desires known when we listen more and talk less and do not try to control.  It is when we surrender and trust Him.

I wanted sunshine but there were times of clouds.  It was in the cloudy times, I truly rested.  There wasn’t anything else to do when it rained.  All we had were bikes so we didn’t want to ride in the storms.  God revealed to me the need to slow down and just be present with Him.  Our bodies need rest – a complete slow down to nothing.  Rest is needed so our system can heal mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

One day on our bike ride, the clouds were in the East and in the West but right above us the sun broke through the clouds showing the deep blue sky.  God was telling me – you need to be in the moment.  Do not focus on what was or what will be.  Enjoy the current moment.  We need to live now.  Yes, planning is good and reflecting and remembering reveals our foundation, but we also need to enjoy life now.  Not someday.  Do it now.  Take the trip!  Book the flight!  Laugh!  God is with us in the present.  God shines His light of love in the now.

When rain comes enjoy the rest.  When the sun breaks through the clouds, enjoy the blue sky.  Live in hope even in the struggles, the pain and the heartache of life.  God is our ultimate hope.  Pray through the struggles even when words do not come.  Just trust, sigh and know Jesus is with you.

The beach is a great place to people watch and listen to how God sees people.  There is no judgment at the beach.  You can wear anything, be big or small and you are accepted.  Your belly may hang out or you may be muscular.  Everyone is the same.  When you smile and say “hi” people are friendly.  God calls us to be childlike – enjoy the simple things of life.  Dig in the sand, chase the birds, giggle and jump in the waves.  We take ourselves way to seriously and think we are to be the judge of others.  Our job is to love people where they are.  God is the judge.  Just love and accept people.  Be Jesus to them and stop controlling others.  Be patient and humble not judgmental and prideful.  Smile and talk with people.

While on the beach, I heard many different languages spoken.  I did not understand their words, but I understood their laughter and smiles.  Laughter is a universal language.  So are tears.  God made us to connect with others with our emotions.  Start connecting and listening.

The waves are powerful and never stop coming no matter the strength of the wind or the calmness of the day.  God is always present in our lives.  Sometimes we recognize His power and presence through His strength, and other times God comes in the quietness or through a gentle whisper.

In my beach running, I learned to run closer to the water and the waves where the sand was more solid and I did not sink as much.  Even though I was in the water more, I did not sink or stumble.  In life, we may have to get a little wet.  It is standing firm though, on our foundation and not go where we think it will be an easier way.  That is usually when we sink and fall because we are farther from Jesus.

Enjoy the blessings and gifts from God.  I did not earn or deserve a trip to the beach.  It was a blessing from God.  Recognize God loves you and provides blessings in our lives that we tend to disregard as from God.  God gives.  We receive.  We do not deserve anything from God.  It is God’s love, grace and mercy that God so freely gives.

Always look up.  We were surrounded by angel wing clouds one day.  These are thin clouds that look like the wings of angels.  There were dozens of them.  It was in that moment as I looked around me, I knew God’s host of angels were singing and my friend, Jan was with them.  In that moment, I felt I released my friend to Heaven to sing with the angels.  I felt a calmness and peace come over me.  I miss my friend, but I know she is singing with the angels.

God reveals Himself when we listen and look.  It may come in unexpected ways and even through disappointments and changed plans.  God uses every opportunity to reveal His love and grace.  Allow God to reveal Himself to you.  Keep your eyes open.

Prayers Matter

“Lord listen to my prayer; let my cry for help come to you.”  Psalm 102:1

Mark thanked me for his birthday card and appreciated my prayers.  God is using him to share the Gospel in many ways.  I told him my mom would be so happy.  Mark responded, “I know her prayers to the Lord mattered in our lives.”  Yes, they did and they still do.  Prayers matter.  My mom was known as a prayer warrior.  When someone asked her to pray for them, she prayed.  She prayed for her family daily and for whomever she encountered and whatever was going on around her.  She prayed.  My mom saw prayer as vital in her relationship with God.

I sign most of the cards I send with “Love and Prayers.”  I say a prayer for the person I am sending the card and in essence put the prayer in the card and then seal it.  When someone comes to my mind, I say a prayer for them or when someone sends me a text asking for prayer, I say a prayer at that moment.  It is being intentional and praying when we say we will pray for someone.  Once you say the prayer, God knows it.  You do not need to keep reminding Him.  We pray for some of the same people daily because they mean so much to us and we just want to keep bringing them to the Lord.

Yes, we tend to repeat our prayers because we are sharing with God what is important to us and what weighs heavy upon our hearts.  God knows our hearts, and God never forgets.  Our prayers also remind us that God cares about us and what and who is important.  In praying, we release to God control over those we love and the concerns of daily life.  Prayer is a way to confirm that God’s got it.

I hear so many people say, “I don’t know how to pray. I get distracted or fall asleep.”  It is a beautiful way to fall asleep – in the arms of our Heavenly Father.  Don’t worry, God is not offended if we fall asleep when we pray.  God just smiles like we do when a child falls asleep as we read to them.

Prayer is intentional and continuous.  I Thessalonians 5:17 says – “Pray without ceasing.”  It does not mean we are talking all the time.  The part of prayer we tend to avoid is the listening part.  Remember, prayer is a two-way conversation with God.  It is talking and listening.  It is being still.  Being still is difficult in our world with all the noise and outside influences trying to get our attention.  Sometimes when we are trying to be still, we fall asleep.  So what about a prayer walk or run?  Disconnect from your phone and the things of this world and listen to God through nature, the clouds, the sounds of the birds.  Just be present.

I believe the prayers of those who came before us are still active in this world.  My mom’s prayers and my Grandmother’s prayers are part of my foundation.  God heard those prayers and fulfills them in God’s time.

Prayer is the active awareness of God’s presence with us.  We can pray without words when we look at the beauty of creation around us.  Sometimes, the prayer is “Thank you, God.”  And sometimes it is just, “Jesus, help me.”  Music is also a type of prayer because it is active and brings us into the awareness of God being with us.  Sighing is also a prayer.  We sigh when words do not come.  It is a way to release the emotions in us.  It becomes a prayer when we sigh knowing we are in the presence of God.

Prayer is a relationship with the One who loves us the most.  It is a conversation.  It is a smile that warms our heart knowing God is with us.  In the midst of struggles and heartaches, prayer has nothing to do with words.  It is a childlike trust that God is there even when we cannot feel His presence and even when we do not like the situation.  Prayer is trusting the One who promised to always be with us. 

As I write this about prayer, my thoughts go to my friend, Jan.  Her prayers were beautiful childlike words to her Heavenly Father.  Her prayers were worship, thanksgiving, and very specific as she shared with God her heart’s desire for situations and those she loved.  Jan always ended her prayers with me saying – “God you are good.  I love you.”

Don’t complicate prayer so much that you feel inadequate to pray, and don’t worry about not saying the right words.  Remember, God loves you.  God is your Heavenly Father who wants to talk to his child.  Just crawl up into the lap of God and talk, listen, sigh, and just be still.

Reflections in the Stillnes

“Be still and know that I am God.”  Psalm 46:10

Each day during my devotion time, I write down thoughts and what I heard God speak through the scripture or devotion.  I have shared some of them with you in the past, and I have decided each quarter to share what I have gleaned by being still before God.  Sometimes random thoughts speak deeply to our souls.  My hope is that something will speak to you.  Let me know.

Each day we awake to being completely free of our burden of sin when we accept Jesus’ gift of forgiveness.

Do everything to please God.  Learn to live your life so every detail pleases God.

To acknowledge God and even receive Jesus’ forgiveness and grace but not make Jesus Lord of your life becomes a miserable existence.

Salvation is God-given, God driven, and God empowered.

Shame – Self Hate At My Expense.

Think before you speak.  It is not how many words you say to God, it is what is in your heart when you say them.

Instead of dwelling on failures or regrets, trust God has scrubbed your past clean with the blood of Jesus.

Defer to God’s “to do” list not your own.

When God interrupts your plans for His plans – change your attitude too.  Don’t complain and grumble.  Be grateful for God’s plan and guidance.  God chose you to do it for Him.

Failure does not define me, God does.

We are just walking each other home.

God gives us the faith to keep trusting Him when we do not understand.

The key to the Christian life is to consistently live and abide in Jesus.

Focus on this season of life and not compare it to the previous seasons in your life.

The core of the Gospel – I am wrong.  Jesus is right.

God delights in using ordinary people like us to do great things for Him even when our task may seem insignificant to us.

A humble heart leads toward a life of meaning and joy.

Yield your heart to God and you will find what you are truly seeking and desire – peace and contentment.

Change means purging your heart of anything that cannot co-exist with Christ.

Live for Jesus not for false Christian leaders who do not follow Scripture or lead one to Jesus.

Embrace humility and do not seek recognition for yourself but direct attention to Jesus.

God’s covenant is dependent upon God’s protection and provision not on our performance.

God’s economy works differently – the more you give, the more you receive.

Your tongue needs to be under the control of God’s Spirit to make it an instrument of blessing and praise.

Salvation is God’s gift, God’s work, God’s grace.  God gives and we receive.

Look and see God in the simple things of life.

Obeying God should not be something we do, but something that flows from who we are.

Jesus entered the tunnel of death to prove there was an exit.

The anchor points of the cross – My life is not futile.  My failures are not fatal.  My death is not final.

May your life glorify God.  May your good deeds glorify God.

Hope you found a thought to ponder this week.  May God speak to you in the stillness.  May you allow yourself time to be still and to listen.