Jesus Messiah, Lord of All!

All my hope is in you, Light of The World.

I have not struggled unto death, but Christ did for me. Let us be reminded this day of his sacrifice for us so that we might be saved. Love So Amazing! Listen and be reminded, so that we can go forth this Easter in victory, sharing his love that is now in us.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YqHGFtnMOI

At The Cross

                                              Good Friday Service, Union Church, Istanbul

As we prepare our hearts for a deeper understanding of Christ's love for us, I am ever mindful of God's sacrifice. His atonement for our sins, his humble, personal sacrifice that we remember at this time of the year. A chance to reflect on our own lives and make necessary adjustments. A New Year for Christians, if you will.

Our slate is clean, our sins are washed away, because of the price he paid while we were yet sinners. "Father forgive them for they know not what they do." Hardly the words you or I would speak, with less than being nailed to a cross for something we did not do.

"Greater love hath no man than to lay down his life for his friends."John 3:16 " For God SO loved the world, that he gave his ONLY begotten son, that whosoever believed on him should NOT perish but have eternal life".

Love you and I can only imagine!

A beautiful song by Hillsong. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eOY0mjjmx8Y

Still Making Me Holy

Remember the bumper sticker that says "Don't judge me, God is not finished with me yet." I always liked it as a kid because I dislike being judged by others. As Christians we are also often judged by the world, when our actions do not match up to our words. Have you ever had someone get in your face for no apparent reason, or lie about something just because. These I call "red flag" moments. I have learned to recognize them as tests, trials, obstacles for sure, whether for my refining, or as a witness to someone else.

 Actions speak volumes, and I dare say non-believers who are watching take note. I should react in the natural one way, but with God's grace, his love within me shines through during those tough times of injustice. As a Christian, Gods' word says great is my reward in heaven. I know in the end I come out on top, so I do not feel the need to get upset or seek revenge. Peace, confidence, hope, and love. God's children react differently than those of the world.

In scripture it says," For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms". Ephesians 6:12 Once we understand it is not the person or situation, but the spirit of darkness seeking whom he may devour, then we are not suckered in and duped, losing our witness by our actions. We are able to turn the devil on his head because God within us, allows us to react differently, speaking volumes to the unbeliever.

None of us are perfect, yet God continues the process of making us into his image. With that thought, this song comes to mind. "I'm So Clumsy". I cannot do it on my own, but the good news is, I don't have to. God is right there with me, every step of the way, making me holy...http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ip7MaWhfW_g
Psalm 62:
My soul finds rest in God alone;
my salvation comes from him.
2 He alone is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.

3 How long will you assault a man?
Would all of you throw him down—
this leaning wall, this tottering fence?

4 They fully intend to topple him
from his lofty place;
they take delight in lies.
With their mouths they bless,
but in their hearts they curse.
Selah

5 Find rest, O my soul, in God alone;
my hope comes from him.

6 He alone is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.

7 My salvation and my honor depend on God [a] ;
he is my mighty rock, my refuge.

8 Trust in him at all times, O people;
pour out your hearts to him,
for God is our refuge.
Selah

9 Lowborn men are but a breath,
the highborn are but a lie;
if weighed on a balance, they are nothing;
together they are only a breath.

10 Do not trust in extortion
or take pride in stolen goods;
though your riches increase,
do not set your heart on them.

11 One thing God has spoken,
two things have I heard:
that you, O God, are strong,

12 and that you, O Lord, are loving.
Surely you will reward each person
according to what he has done.

Christian Life...... A Journey

How many have ever gotten lost in the woods and could not see the forest for all the trees, or bogged down in a situation, obsessed with an individual event at the exclusion of the whole. Hopefully more so as kids and young adults, but even now I sometimes find myself weighed down in the minutia and lose sight of Gods' grand scheme. Yet we have only to look back and remember our past struggles and victories that we have experienced in our lives, to help us realize God has not abandoned us.

Are you there today, swimming upstream, struggling instead of asking and trusting God to see you through? Often times he requires us to take the long road, so that we learn and grow stronger to be used of him, in his grand scheme of things. Are we strong enough to handle the success he has planned for us? Interesting thought to ponder during our next hardship. Growing up is hard work, but God knows best!

Blessings and prayer....May God that created us continue to work his perfect will in our lives so that we may grow up and be the sons and daughters he has made us to be. Go in peace and may he keep our hearts and minds on the one true God, the author and finisher of our faith, in Jesus name I pray.

Song: Jeremy Camp, "Healing Hand of God" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNqR8btqtwA

Using Our Gifts

As we go through life whether young or old, knowing our gifts and talents are first and foremost to developing them. Gods' word says we are uniquely made and that we all have gifts and talents to be used for his glory.

Now if you are like me, I always thought that meant they had to be used in the church. Well through the years I have learned that my witness for Christ happens every moment, especially when I think no one is looking. When we embrace who we are in Christ Jesus and let him work through us, then everyday our lives are a testament to his love, joy and happiness that is not measured in worldly goods, or achievements, but through Christ alone!

I have recently accepted a teaching post in a village in South India called Kodaikanal starting in July. It is the culmination of a lot of preparation and desire to serve. Though it is nowhere near where I thought I would be, it is "spot on" for who God made me to be. Blessed and awed again for his supernatural provision and blessing in my life and my family. We are all called to serve and be a blessing to those around us, using our unique gifts and talents that God has placed in us.
May you be inspired and challenged to look depth within and see where your India is today?

Song. "All To Jesus". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7x2IpLSfqp8&feature=related

Whatever You Are Doing.....

Yesterday while walking, one of the stray dogs on the street decided to come after me. I was a little surprised because usually they are not an issue, but today was an exception. Buddy this dog was going to get me and he was bearing all teeth and had enlisted a couple of followers as well. As I am backing up screaming in Jesus name get behind me, a guard steps out from one of many boxes that they exist in, in this city and threw a stone at the dogs to get them to leave me alone. Whew... Funny thing is or not so, is that this is a 99 percent muslim country. To say Jesus' name probably got his attention, for any other word made not have had an impact, as they also do not speak english as well. Hmmm.....

Sometimes satan is like that though. Out of nowhere he comes and threatens you, when you least expect it. Whoa! I am glad to be able to kick him in the teeth literally and figuratively, by pleading the blood of Jesus over any and all situations, even those of a stray dog. 1st Peter 5:8 "Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour".

 Whatever your "stray dog" is today, be encouraged and know that God is our ever present help in all situations, big and small.

 "Whatever You're Doing" by Sanctus Real.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTjRlUD_cwc

Count Your Blessings, One By One!

What more comes to mind on St. Patrick's Day than counting our blessings! God's word is full of instructions on thanking him for all our many benefits. Fitting for today are some Irish prayers and blessings as well!

I am also remembering a dear friend that went to be with the Lord as he was chosen to be the king in the local St. Patrick's Day for many years before being taken home to be with the Lord. Blessings for the time he shared with us, though short by my standards, God knows better than me. Blessings to his family and friends!

http://islandireland.com/Pages/folk/sets/bless.html
Song:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Ox75f3HWBA

Nothing to Lose, Nothing to Hide.....

Incredible song that speaks to my heart.
Listen and be inspired to give it your all.....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MmC5aRFb-Vs

Following Your Calling

Living in faith, walking the walk, and trusting God to see us through, irrespective of what we hear and see from those around us. Easier said than done if you are like me, but what freedom and peace it offers when we can trust him and follow his calling on our life.

This has been a trying two weeks for me personally as I continue to follow God's leading on my heart, it has forced me to take the "road less traveled" in a lot of ways. It has not been the easiest path, but I know it is the right path, because God continues to open the doors and grant unprecedented favor along the way, but not without persecutions too.

What encourages me though is I know it is not of my doing alone, for without God's supernatural provision this path would not be possible. I have learned through the years to see his hand print and know his voice. I am reassured each step as he continually opens doors supernaturally, and offers his protection in the persecution. Each step of victory encourages me to take the next step, and the next, until his will is done in my life.

Often we have two scenarios to know if what we are doing is our will or God's. Are we pushing our own agenda and forcing things to happen, forsaking God's principles in the process, or are we walking in his statues and allowing him to open the doors as we walk the walk of faith shinning as God's children, enduring the unjust persecution and hardship, depending on him to make things right? Both are in fact action based, but one does not reflect well on "Christians", and the other shows God's hand in the midst of complete chaos, when there is divine provision and submission by us.

May our prayer this day be: Lord, give us your heart each day, that we may walk in your counsel, looking to you, depending on your divine direction and provision, listening to your still small voice, with confidence. Not my will but yours be done, in Jesus name I pray.

Song: "You Will Never Walk Alone". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fiE0sZ0rzcs

Valleys and Mountains

Andalsnes, Norway

For those who have ever gone on a hike, you can relate to the metaphor of our walk here on earth as being one of mountain top experiences inevitably followed by valleys. In order to get to the mountain top we often have to endure some pretty steep inclines along the way, fatigue and the likes. For me that also includes getting lost. Occasionally we are able to camp on the plateaus and enjoy the vistas for a season, but ultimately we must continue. God's word promises protection and guidance on our journey, but never encourages complacency. We must continue in order to become all he has called us to be. Rest if you must, but do not quit! God has much in store for us all is we are willing to endure.

Song. "Mountain of God"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgeMHHbFslk

Change My Heart Oh God

I will love the Lord with all my heart, with all my soul, with all my mind, with all my strength. There is nothing more worth living for.  Change my heart oh God.....

Psalm 106:1 "Praise ye the Lord. O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good: His mercy endures forever."

What is our heart's cry today? I pray it is for more of God to fill us up, to guide and direct our footsteps, our thoughts, our ways for his glory. Not my will, but yours be done.

He is the Potter, we are the clay, mold us and make us, in Jesus name I pray.

Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZEBOb-H1NbY

Learning to Fly

Experience teaches me that when my nest starts to become uncomfortable, then flying time is coming. God is patient and loving, yet the longer I delay my flight the more uncomfortable my nest becomes. It reminds me of when the mother bird pushes her baby out to fly for her own good, so that she can  become what she was destined to be. God also encourages my growth at times through discomfort in my present circumstances.

Now this does not stand alone, because God will also be speaking to our hearts, but sometimes we put in the ear plugs and tune him out with our busy schedules and he has to get our attention. Through prayer and being still, we can know what God wants us to do. Are we listening, asking, praying, and trusting?

I have learned to pray this daily prayer. "Lord open and close the doors where you would have me go, help me to know your will for my life, speak to my heart, guide and direct my footsteps for your glory, in Jesus name I pray".

If we sincerely, humbly ask for God's guidance he will guide us in a path that only he could provide, and when the rough spots come, we will be encouraged on our journey that he has planned for us. Rest assured, "He is working all things for our good, to them that love the Lord and are called according to his purpose".

Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q24z4XcJxnM

I Will Worship While I'm Waiting

Spring is coming. We can all look around and see the signs. The budding branches, the tulips and other spring flowers and longer days. All are signs that we recognize to be the beginnings of warmer weather and beautiful foliage.

Seasons of life are much the same. Whether we are young, middle aged, or old, we can mark the seasons of our life by things that change around us, and within us.

A few years back while waiting in Wal-Mart I was looking at the reading glasses. Often times they will have a chart there that says if you are this age then you will need this strength etc. My natural inclination is to prove it wrong, but as I strained to read those little lines, I was hard pressed to deny it.

How about as Christians? Can we look around and see what is going on in the world and deny the evidence? God's word says we will be able to see these things coming, but those of the world will not. "When it is evening, ye say, it will be fair weather: for the sky is red. And in the morning, it will be foul weather today: for the sky is red and lowering. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times?" (Matt. 16:2-3) Matthew 24:3-8 "And you will hear wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation will raise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences and earthquakes in various places. All of these are the beginning of sorrows".  In the same breathe he says do not fear.

Revelation 3:11 "I am coming quickly; hold fast what you have, so that no one will take your crown". In the garden he knew his time was at hand, but he also knew whose hand he was in. We as Christians have that same privilege. God says do not fear, but when you see these things, know that the time is at hand. "Be not wise in your own eyes, but redeeming the time because the days are evil." Ephesians 5:16

Spring is indeed coming, we all getting older if we are lucky and need reading glasses, and Christs' return is imminent. May we ALL be found worthy of his calling, while we are waiting. Ephesians 4:1-16.
Song." Worship While I'm Waiting" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bb7TSGptd3Y

To Be Led...

Below is a link to a powerful song and pictures that symbolize letting go of everything we know to be led by God, even if it means being in the wilderness seemingly all alone and lost. The question then is, are we willing? Romans 8:14 "For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God". NLV

I am in the process of accepting a teaching post in a christian school in Kodaikanal, India where the picture below is taken. Please keep me in your prayers as I walk the walk....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yxMdFWK65gM

Living Out Our Faith

As I  revvisit this interview from almost 3 years ago where I was watching an interview of the family that the movie "Blind Side" was taken from, I am moved again to share. In this interview the entire family embraced the gift of "giving" with their whole being. This was obviously modeled by their mom who I'm sure has been modeling this in her family for many years, yet this particular incident made the national screen.

I hope we all take inspiration from this movie and are reminded that we can make a difference in someone's life today! May our hearts overflow with God's love daily in such a way that our actions speak louder than our words, to those in our path, family, friend's and strangers. Matthew 25:40 "And the King will say, "I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!"

Interview with Mike Huckabbe http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2U6j1oN50EY

Reflections.....

WaterSound Beach, Fl.

Psalm 34 is a great chapter for those who are seeking God, departing from evil, doing good works and pursuing peace. He promises deliverance for those who are pure in heart and a contrite spirit. Verse 19, "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivereth him out of them all."

Wow! I am so grateful that God is just a whisper away, in our good times and bad. There are times in my day where I am feeling really good about things and then all of a sudden wham! The devil throws a sucker punch right in those vulnerable spots where I have let my guard down. In the natural I want to strike back and retaliate, however God's word would have us respond differently so that our witness is not lost and his light shines through us.

The scriptures remind us in Ephesians 6:12 that, "We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers and rulers of darkness of this world and spiritual wickedness in high places."  If I can remember this, then I can remain calm in the storm and trust that he will see me through.

Is there a storm you are going through today, that you need to surrender? I know there is for me.....
Song:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnDPt7igFcQ

Letting Go......

Letting go of our fears and trusting God for provision is often easier said than done, but oh what freedom there is in letting him take over our lives, completely.

I have a dear friend who accepted a new job position, but it meant letting go of a comfortable known.  As you would probably expect, once he decided to let go, he was offered a bigger promotion than any he could have ever imagined, but it meant letting go of the known to embrace the unknown. That in turn means growth for all of us, who dare to venture out of our comfort zones.

Think about the mother bird who wants her young to fly. She has to make their nest uncomfortable before they will attempt a great unknown, yet it's something they were born to do. Great metaphors here. Some of us have to be pushed, others encouraged, some to be made miserable before we leave, and yet some will still choose to stay even in their misery, because it's a known.

God desires to give you his best. Remember he made you, he knows the plans he has for you, to give you a hope, a future. He states that "If we as parents being evil know how to give good gifts to our children, how much more does your Heavenly Father desire to give good things to them that ask him". Matthew Ch. 7 vs.11.

Now sometimes God's best is not the world's best. He has you in the palm of his hand, but asks that you trust him with your life. Are you willing to die to self and all the trappings of this world? As the   rich young ruler asks Jesus, what must I do to be good? In conclusion he replies, "Sell all that you have and follow me." We know the story well as the young man left sad. He had vision and heart problems I would say. Near sighted and love of "stuff "more than love of God.

Are we willing to let go and let God take control, trusting he cares for us? Think of Abraham and Isaac. Is there anything that is more important to you than serving God, that is keeping you from his best? I encourage you today to look deep within and see where you stand. Psalm is a great book of hope and promise if we dare to place our trust in God's sovereign provision, even when it looks alien to this world.

Song. "He is Able"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmU-U2i4GU4

When I Finally Make it Home

Psalm 103:1" Bless the Lord, O my soul and all that is within me, bless his holy name." Vs.13-15 "Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knows our frame; He remembers that we are but dust. As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth."

May we remember God's words and bless his holy name. Teach us to number our days and know the end of our time, that we might be found faithful stewards of the time he has so graciously given to us.

Song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gnf1xczuOrA

Is God In Your Fire?

I had the privilege as a young kid to witness an elderly widow in the church. Her witness to me was profound in her sweet dependence on God in all her circumstances, even when things appeared to be negative she always found God in them and shared with such joyful demeanor, I had to take note. I must confess, it has stayed with me through the years and I am grateful for it.

It is obvious to see God in our good times, but it takes a trained eye to see him in the midst of our hardships. Are we trusting in a sovereign God who knows what we need even when we cannot see him and do not understand?

Some great bible examples of this are Joseph, Lot, Noah, David and countless more. These people went through some really tough circumstances and yet continued doing what was right in the midst of their storm, and trusted God to see them through.

Hopefully we are encouraged when we read of these ordinary people that God used in profound ways whose latter end was better than their beginning. There is something we must not miss though, it is not all about them.  God was using them to bless others and in the process and they were blessed.

Lord help us to have your eyes and see the bigger picture when we're inclined to whine and complain, so that we too might be used of you in a mighty way and grow stronger in our faith.

Song: "You Raise Me Up" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGK5ZYjZ6oY

Be Not Afraid!

In Mark Ch. 5:25-36. Jesus is approached not only by the lady that touched the hem of his garment with the belief that if she could just touch him she would be healed, but by a ruler of the synagogue (Jairus) asking that he come to heal his daughter. Before he could even ask though it was reported to him that his daughter had died and not to bother Jesus. However Jesus being who Jesus is, he overheard and said " Be not afraid, only believe." He then proceeded to the man's house to bring his daughter back to life.

These are just a few of the stories in the bible that give me encouragement to keep pressing on, not to quit no matter how unlikely something seems to me. Hope and faith followed by works, believing that God does hear our prayer right where we are. Are we looking, hoping, pressing, asking, believing, today for that miracle, or are we leaning on our own understanding and becoming fearful?

When we stay in God's word we can find hope and encouragement during our storms, nourishment and strength to keep pressing on, with the ability to trust in God to see us through victoriously! Chorus to a song, "Through It All",  says it all. "Through it all, I've learned to trust in Jesus, I've learned to trust in God, through it all I've learned to depend upon his word". Listen and be encouraged to keep the faith.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvIxwc90BEI

I Give My Life To The Potter's Hand.....

This week I have been moved by the actions of some very dear older friends, as they followed God's calling full-time, into the Philippines. They left all of their comforts and family to follow a calling deep within their hearts. Wow!

As I am continually reminded, God often works in our lives in similar ways on many fronts.  Just yesterday I also interviewed  to a Christian school in India, which honestly scares me to death, but then I look at this older couple and I am encouraged.

To truly live is to give God your all! Surrendering my will to his way. Am I willing to go where he leads me? Deep within his call is pushing me, propelling me, to get out of my comfort zone and truly live. How about you? Is there something he is calling you too?

Listen to this song and see.....

One of many beautiful songs by Hillsong. "Potter's Hand" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_aYvGE1MKeI&feature=related