On a recent post I shared that sometimes I struggle with prayer…especially when it intersects with ultimately submitting or surrendering to God’s will.

I find it easier to just submit to God’s will rather than to offer prayer requests to him and have him say no, or wait…or I have a better choice or answer for you. That it’s less painful to just submit than to ask and not receive what I asked for or in the manner or timing I asked for it.

Today I was reflecting further on that and wondered…by withholding prayer or being reluctant in making my requests to God…I’m not fully or wholly surrendering to God.

Real trust…in God or even a person is to being able to say this is what I want or need. And when the answer is no…or later…or I’ve got something better…or you’re just going to have to trust me…that indeed you do trust them.

You trust their character, wisdom, knowledge, motives, and you trust that they love you. That they love you enough to give you what you need and do that which is best for you. Even if it’s not readily apparent to you at the moment. That’s trust

When I don’t pray about something that concerns me…it’s not like God doesn’t know about it. Not only is he aware of my needs or wants…he’s also aware of my reluctance approach him or trust him.

How do you feel when someone you love and for whom you want the best doesn’t trust you enough to confide in you? Does it hurt you? Does it frustrate you? Does it break your heart?

Perhaps the only one I’m kidding is me. I think that by not asking…and just submitting I am surrendering to God’s will. When in fact…I am not fully trusting God. Not trusting him enough to say “God…this is what I want or need. But God…I know that you are good, holy, perfect and righteous. I know that you love me and I trust you to give me that which you deem best for me at the right and perfect time.”

So like…will I ever get this trust in God and faith thing right before I die? Well…if I’m a betting person…I don’t know. But then there is God…and his Spirit within me…and tomorrow is a new day…and each moment is fresh. Okay…let’s give it another try. Thank Jesus!

Surrender definition by Webster’s:
1 a : to yield to the power, control, or possession of another upon compulsion or demand b : to give up completely or agree to forgo especially in favor of another2 a : to give (oneself) up into the power of another especially as a prisoner b : to give (oneself) over to something (as an influence)

Notes taken from Bob Kraning’s Easter Message on April 16, 2006

Luke 24:13-35

Two on the road to Emmaus. Their hopes had been dashed. They were disheartened and discouraged. Jesus had told them that he would rise on the 3rd day…but they hadn’t seen him. Had Jesus failed? Their minds were on death…and they were disappointed. Is that why the two did not recognize Jesus?

What does this story reveal to us about Jesus?

1) The ability of Jesus to make send out of the senseless things of life.

Vs. 18 – The two asked Jesus if he didn’t know what was going on. What’s ironic is that Jesus is the only one who truly knew what was going on. They were wistfully longing for what Jesus had promised.

Joy and hope is renewed when Jesus shows us the answers. Even in the bewildering times…we are learning about what life really means.

2) We see the kindness, understanding and courtesy of Jesus.

Jesus listened to them as they talked. Jesus waited for an invitation to stay with them. He does them same today…he waits for an invitation. He joined them only after the invitation was received.

Jesus listened first, and then he guided them through all that they had learned. Cleopus indicted himself by sighting the scriptures. But the problem is…that it was in his head, not his heart.

Vs. 27 – Jesus shared with them…he went through the Old Testament scripture references that spoke of him. Genesis 3:15, Abraham and Isaac Genesis 22. The ram in the thicket…a picture in the Old Testament of Jesus sacrificial offering. The Passover in Egypt…and the blood of the lamb on the doorposts…and how the angel of the Lord would pass over. Isaiah 53…the picture of the suffering servant (pierced, crushed, by wounds we were healed.

3) Ability of Jesus to reveal himself…during the breaking of bread. Jesus took the bread, blessed it and then broke it. That’s when they recognized him. Why? Had they been there when Jesus fed the 5,000? The moment he broke the bread…they recognized him. Then he slipped away.

4) When you realize who Jesus truly is…you have to act.

These two men…ran back 20 miles to Jerusalem to tell the others. You can’t just sit there and do nothing when you know the truth. You can’t just sit there when you have truth…life giving truth that they need to hear. You just have to share it.

So…had the Father abandoned his Son? No! Instead he said Arise.

I need to recognize:

1) Jesus is Lord.

He came; he died so that we might be made the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus.

2) I need to remember He is the God of the Resurrection

He will be for us a resurrection…new beginning…sunrise….life out of death…hope out of darkness…success out of failure.

3) I need to make a commitment to Jesus to be his witness.

Not a witness…but to witness to others about him. Witness to the fact that Jesus is alive and he came to redeem us from our sins.

In Max Lucado’s book Six Hours One Friday he talks about Jairus and his daughter whom Jesus had raised from the dead. She had been dead and was now alive. She had the answer to the question that everyone wanted to know. At breakfast one morning…he asks the question. What was her response? “It’s a secret too good for words.”

Peace when there should be pain. Confidence in the midst of crisis. Does death have the final word? “Not on your life.”

Because I live…you shall live also. He’s taken away our sins and guilt. We are free.

Jirus daughter…she has the look…she knows the answer for the question everyone has. Does death have the final answer? “Not on your life!”

Lastly Bob Kraning recommended a book “Dinner with a Perfect Stranger” by Dick Gregory…if you’re not sure of your salvation and relationship with Jesus Christ.

I feel like I’ve been driving in a fog for months now…and finally I’m coming out of the fog.

It seems strange to see the clearing…and I almost feel disoriented as the fog dissipates and I feel the sunshine around me. Sounds are muted in the fog…and now I begin to hear birds chirping…and maybe a car passing by in the distance. I’m not sure how long I’ve been in the fog…but it seems like it’s been such a very long time.

Now this is a metaphorical fog…but it is an apt description nonetheless.

So when did it begin? I’m not sure I even know. It seems like I’ve been driving for so very long…and much has happened in that time frame (or relief has not been forthcoming). Everything from Alzheimer’s, to job burnout…or family and friend concerns weighing heavily upon these frail shoulders…to unanswered, much desired prayer.

I think I know when it started to change. A couple of weeks ago…I went to the women’s retreat a church. It was just what I needed…to be refreshed and renewed. One of the exercises was to pick out a big rock and write on it…different things or people that you wanted to surrender and leave at the foot of the cross. It didn’t take long for me to know what I wanted to write on that rock. In fact…I could have used a whole satchel full of rocks to help me lay my burdens down.

One of the first things I wrote on the rock was the initials of a person with whom I’ve felt very burdened and discontented about for some time now. After much prayer and meditation…I took my rock up and laid it at the foot of the cross. Immediately…I felt a peace. For so long I had struggled to let go of my hopes regarding our relationship…and I resisted. But in doing this simple exercise…I was finally able to let him go.

When I walked away from church that day…I felt peace that had evaded me for far too long. Amazingly that peace has continued. By letting go of my hopes and dreams…I was also able to let go of my expectations…let it go, let it be and move on. That was the second marker I recalled seeing as I drove out of this fog.

Prior to that…I took a day and allowed myself to just be. It entailed a trip to the flower fields in Carlsbad. The visit filled my empty tanks…and I left renewed and at peace…with God, circumstances and myself.

You know those mountain top experiences…are frequently followed by a valley or two. This time I felt that God had me in the winepress…almost literally and physically. During this time…I had a migraine headache that lasted for over a week and was complicated by jaw pain from wisdom teeth. It was agonizing…and I would have done most anything to bring relief to the unrelenting, intense physical pain. Relief started only after I submitted a prayer request…to the faithful members of Kindred Community Church’s prayer team.

I was humbled that following Sunday…by my fellow church members inquiring to find out how I felt. They are so caring and faithful. I felt humbled and grateful for their prayers and that God has granted me the presence of these wonderful people in my life.

I think that God used the physical pain…and the resulting pain relief to remind me of God, his power, and the power of prayer…that he does care…yea, even for lowly me.

Prayer has always been a struggle for me. Honestly…prayer took a hit in my life following the death of my pastor. We had all prayed so long and so hard…for God to heal this man…but ultimately we prayed for God’s will and the ability to accept his will. And God sustained and strengthened us…as a church body and as individuals as we rode the cancer coaster for over two years. God’s perfect will was done…when he called his faithful servant home.

In some ways…riding the coaster was easier than when it stopped. I almost feel…as if I lost my purpose for prayer. I know this sounds wholly sacrilegious…but at times I felt it almost easier to submit to God and his will…without presenting him my requests in prayer. Only to have those requests overridden by God’s will. It hurt less to submit than to ask and be denied.

But thank God…he is faithful when I am faithless. He was there…solid and steady…an abiding rock for me. Though the fog and darkness hid God from me…he was there nonetheless.

Today…Good Friday…I awoke early. I wanted to read passages about Jesus’ crucifixion. I chose Psalm 22 and Isaiah 53. In reading those passages…I was again reminded that God does care for me. That he sent his Son Jesus to die on that cross…bear the penalty for my sin…so that I may be forgiven and spend eternity with him in heaven.

Have the many things that concern me gone away? No…I could have written three more pages of things that come to mind.

But I am reminded of the love God has for me…and how big he is. He is sovereign and has a plan…a perfect plan in place. And I’m part of that plan…and he cares for me and will bring me through.

How can I not be amazed to think and know that Jesus chose to give up his life and die for me? Think about it. Who, in your life, would you be willing to give up your life to save? I’m sure there are a few people that you love greatly and for whom you would make that sacrifice. But would you make that sacrifice for the person who hurt you…or deceived and used you for personal gain? Would you do that for someone who hated you or someone who ignored you and didn’t even recognize you were there?

Well that’s exactly what Jesus did when he died on the cross…low those many years ago. For that I am most grateful…and I can now have a life of peace and yes even victory as I look with confidence to my future, eternally secured in heaven. Now who can beat that?

All to him I owe…all to thee my precious Savior…I surrender all.

Today, April 10th, I send a special birthday blessing…for my friend Joe Egan.

• Joseph….may your Irish eyes always be smiling,
• May God’s blessings rain upon you each day,
• May God bless you and make his love known to you through your family, friends…and even strangers.
• May you in turn be a blessing to others,
• May God strengthen you and enable you to face each challenge he brings your way,
• As you look back on each day…plainly see God’s hand upon you and in each circumstance,
• As you end each day…may your lips sing forth with praise and thanksgiving to God,
• To the God who created you, knew you and formed you in your mother’s womb….low those many years ago.

God bless and Happy Birthday Joe…I hope this will be your best year yet.

Have you ever received a card in the mail…with an offer for a free sample of a product? A brand or something that you don’t normally buy…so you think, “Hey…I’ll give it a try.”

That’s what I said when I received an offer for some free pantyhose…Silkies. I filled out the card and within a few weeks…I received my free sample. Actually I kind of liked the hose…and would probably have purchased them at the store. That is until I found out this company engages in fraudulent and deceptive business practices.

You see not only did I get my free sample…but shortly thereafter I receive another mailing of their product. I didn’t realize that this time it was not free sample…but instead…the beginnings of their fraudulent business practice.

First they send the “free sample”. Next they send more product…then a few weeks later you get the bill…for product you didn’t order or authorize.

Now that’s bad enough…but then I went to their website. I wanted to make sure there was no further misunderstanding…that they knew I didn’t order their product, nor want it. However…you can’t cancel your account or delete any orders on their website.

Now these folks are downright shifty. On their invoice there is no place to cancel an order or note that you don’t want their product.

So what’s a girl to do when taken in by fraud? Well first…a complaint and direction to Silkies customer service to cancel the account and to make sure they know I don’t appreciate their fraudulent business practice.

Second…a trip over to the FTC website to file a complaint.

Lastly…an article to forewarn others who might fall prey to fraud…in particular by SILKIES but also by others seeking to gain by dishonesty.
I come away from this experience leery and jaded. Silkies thinks they are quite clever by conducting business in this manner. However…it will on serve to backfire on them. Not only will I never purchase their product again…I will make sure I warn others about their company.

Next time…any “free offer” cards come my way…they will go in the trash. So other legitimate businesses seeking to get their product noticed…will fail with this girl. Taken in by fraud this time…but coming away a little wiser.

Be forewarned…throw those “free offers” in the trash.

This week has been a lesson in pain…physical pain. Specifically how all consuming it can be.

Sunday evening lead into a week of a migraine headache. To make matters worse…my wisdom teeth decided to do an unwise and untimely thing…by trying once again to make an appearance. Then to add to the equation my sinuses said, “Hey…its springtime…let see what havoc we can cause.” So to say I was in pain…is an understatement.

This blessed migraine has lasted all week. At times thankfully it’s been less obnoxious…but it’s still hanging on today.

Tuesday and Wednesday were the worse…and sleep evaded me. I had to sleep sitting up because the pain was just throbbing when I laid down. Little did my sister know…but she almost received a phone call in the middle of the night to take me to the emergency room.

I think I cried out to God more this week than ever before. Finally on Wednesday night…when I could not bear another night of pain and no sleep…I sent a quick prayer request off to Kindred’s Prayer Team. Within a few minutes of sending that off…the pain eased up from about a level 10 to a level 1 or 2…allowing me to rest. I cried with relief and gratitude…and for the first time in days…was able to sleep.

Trying to sleep sitting up is awful. All I could think of was my dear Pastor Chuck…and how he had to do that towards the end of his cancer coaster. I just did it for a couple of nights…and it was hard. I can’t even imagine what its like for extended periods of time.

Finding something that can bring relief from physical pain can become all consuming quest. Even to bring it down a notch…so it’s bearable. My pain killer of choice Advil…is no longer an option…since I’m allergic and breakout in hives. Aspirin isn’t an option either…so I’m left with Tylenol. Grateful for something…but it’s just not a great pain killer.

It’s not uncommon to hear of pharmacies having burglaries or theft of Vicodin. Why…I’ll never know. On Tuesday night…I took a Vicodin left over from an earlier prescription…and I could have saved myself the time. It made absolutely no difference.

In the midst of the pain…I cried out to God for help. Not in any way an eloquent prayer…but one uttered in desperation. Trying to figure out why the pain was relentless and my prayers not being answered…I confessed my sins that came to mind. Yet the pain continued. So then I asked God to reveal to me what he wanted me to learn from this experience…just wanting to put an end to it.

Physical pain lessens my ability to concentrate and perform well. I’m distracted because of the pain. I was amazed that I was patient in dealing with some people and situations…I would have guessed other wise. But it’s very wearing…and just getting the basics done when I get home at night was an accomplishment. Ironing clothes for the next day or taking out the trash was difficult. I think I will have a new appreciation for being able to complete simple tasks…like washing dishes.

It got me thinking about emotional pain and how one might seek whatever means necessary to make that stop too. While different from physical pain…it can be as difficult to bear. And what about spiritual pain? What does that look like…and what do I do to bring relief?

Definitely not a road I would have chosen to go down. One…from which I’m looking for a quick exit. Thankfully I ended the week…with the pain level reduced. The migraine has lessened and even gone away for hours at a time. I’ve been able to sleep which I have a new appreciation for…after finding sleep so evasive.

Prayerfully I hope that this episode is something of the past, very soon. But, boy oh boy, what a wake up call…to pain and what some people deal with on a daily basis.

Bible Study Fellowship has been a huge blessing in my life. It’s helped me to grow in wisdom and knowledge of God’s Word. It’s helped me better apply it to my life. It’s been both convicting and encouraging.

A couple of gems from tonights study…the above acronym on faith. I also took away the reminder that preoccupation with God’s goodness is the secret of growing old gracefully. May it be true in my life.

Notes taken from Bob Kranings sermon on 4/2/06

“Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted.” Mathew 5:4

There are three perspectives on this passage:

1) Mourning for a world of sin without Christ
2) Mourning over our own sin
3) Mourning over great losses in our life

All our heartbreak and hurt…if only it was as simple as a 2nd grader’s. But life is much more difficult. The Bible does not explain suffering. But it does try and teach us how to handle suffering and to trust our God in the midst of it.

Mourning…when we suffer a great loss. How do I receive comfort in the midst of suffering?

1) Realize that God is with me even in the midst.

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18

God is totally aware of your pain. God cares that you are suffering and in pain. God is able to see you through.

So how much time does it take until it gets better? More for some…less for others.

After Job had lost everything he said, “He keeps close watch on all of my paths.” Job 33:11b

“I have heard your prayer, I have seen your tears, behold, I will heal you.” 2King 20:5b

“God is our refuge and strength and an ever-present help in times of trouble.” – Psalm 46:1

“Cast your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7

God provides the grace to help you in your time of need. Awareness and assistance…God will walk with you through the difficult times. Are you growing in your pain? Or have you gotten stuck in your pain?”

“All sunshine makes for a desert.” Bears no fruit if there is only sunshine. Fruit bearing requires a little rain.

Quote: I walked a mile with Pleasure, She chattered all the way; But left me none the wiser, For all she had to say. I walked a mile with Sorrow And ne’er a word said she; But, oh, the things I learned from her When Sorrow walked with me! – Robert Browning Hamilton

The kindness of friends and comfort and compassion of our God can see us through.”
2) Release the hurt. Stop focusing on what was lost…and instead focus on what is left.

“Behold, I will do something new, Now it will spring forth; Will you not be aware of it?I will even make a roadway in the wilderness, Rivers in the desert. – Isaiah 43:19

You have a couple of options. A) Repress your past, hurt, pain and loss. Pretend like it doesn’t exist. Become like the walking wounded. 2) Release it. Rethink it…second guess yourself again and again.

But the difference between mourning and moaning. Moaning…a pity party. Not getting over feeling sorry for yourself.

In his book. Lee: The Last Years, Charles Bracelen Flood reports that after the Civil War, Robert E. Lee visited a Kentucky lady who took him to the remains of a grand old tree in front of her house. There she bitterly cried that its limbs and trunk had been destroyed by Federal artillery fire. She looked to Lee for a word condemning the North or at least sympathizing with her loss. After a brief silence, Lee said, “Cut it down, my dear Madam, and forget it.” It is better to forgive the injustices of the past than to allow them to remain, let bitterness take root and poison the rest of our life.

3) Resent. Option three…you can continue to resent people, things and even God. Push away the one …the only one who can comfort us in our sorrow.

4) Release it…let God comfort and control.

14 But you, O God, do see trouble and grief; you consider it to take it in hand. The victim commits himself to you; you are the helper of the fatherless. – Psalm 10:14

Don’t push through the time of mourning. Let God help and take you through the mourning.

4) Rely on God’s resources. (Look up the message translation.)

“You never know Jesus is all you need, until he’s all you have.” Mother Theresa

The world has many escapes…drinking, drugs, money and sex among many other things..

God rescues us through the mourning:

a) God’s Word…look up verses about comfort, healing and help. God tells us that his word can make a difference in our lives. Let God help you to let things go, in his timing.

b) God’s people is another resource. People who will pray for you. Those in whom you can fully disclose in confidence.

“God comforts us in our hurt and our pain and our loss so that we may comfort others in their pain, with the same comfort with which we were comforted.” 2 Corinthians 1:4

God brings people in your path who has suffered similarly. When we have seen and know God’s understanding…we too will be able to know and understand another’s pain. Some are able to care because they’ve been there.

c) God’s Spirit –

The spirit of God is there to minister to us in our pain. How do we handle our pain? Run and try to fix ourselves or to call out to the God of heaven to minister to ourselves and others.

We sorrow and mourn, but not as those who have no hope. God tells us, “I’m aware, I care and I will be with you and I will help you in and through your pain.”

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. – Isaiah 41:10b

Tonight while finishing up at work…and before heading off to my weekend…I encountered an ordinary hero.

While inputting some last minute data…I looked up from my computer and encountered the smiling face and warm eyes of Elias. From the first moment I encounter him…I knew this was a special person. Elias has a peace, joy and happiness that radiates from him.

He offered a friendly hello…and reminded me it was Friday and that the weekend was here. Usually I’m quite focused…and able to tune out distractions…but this time I found myself chatting with this rather intriguing man. I asked how he was doing…and he said that he was feeling better because he was not sore anymore after running the LA marathon with his son.

He then told me that this was his second marathon…that he had run with his son. He had not been a runner until just last year. Now I’d guess Elias to be in his fifties. But I wasn’t surprised to hear that he had beaten his son in last year’s marathon. This year…his 27 year old son beat him by two minutes…both finishing the race in a little over five hours.

There was a definite pride that shown forth. Not a boastful pride…but a pleasure in the commitment and success that he and his son had achieved. But more important is the relationship that they enjoy. The proud dad shared that his son is in college and going for his bachelor degree.

Then Elias introduced himself to me…and showed the E & J on his shirt…the E stood for Elias. He was there to make sure that his cleaning crew was doing a good job. A small businessman who had started his business 20 years ago. He did not take accounts for granted…but was following up to make sure his crew was doing quality, detailed work.

He went on to share that tomorrow he was speaking at church and going to tell a story that he had written. A story that is a picture of the world with it’s temptations, distractions and dangers…and of God who loves us so much…that he reached down to pull us to safety. Elias said he likes write…and when he looks things…he likes to make stories about them.

As we parted company…Elias showed me his I-pod Nano. On it was engraved his name…and the saying “Success is a Choice”. Not just a phrase…but a way in which this man lives and walks each day. As he walked away…he stopped to write down a phrase from a motivational picture about perseverance.

A brief and unexpected encounter…but one that I will never forget. Creative…Motivated…Positive…Radiating the Love of God. An indelible impression was made upon my soul…by this man…just An Ordinary Hero.

Being that it’s thirteen Thursday…I’ve decided to reflect on thirteen of my favorite things.

1. Favorite book of the Bible…Roman’s – it’s such a full bodied book. It helps me try and understand God in his sovereignty, his omnipotence, his holiness and righteousness. It brings me great peace to know of God’s grace. And I’m glad to know that my God is so big that I will never fully understand him. Who can fully comprehend the concepts of free will and God’s sovereign will as it applies to our salvation. But Paul wrestles with these concepts and stretches your mind and spirit. By the way…starting in September…BSF Bible Study Fellowship is studying the book of Romans. So if you are interested…sign up…it’s an awesome study.

2. Favorite book of the Old Testament…Genesis – Again…like Romans…this book is so deep. You could read it for a lifetime and never get bored. Each time I read Genesis…I learn new things. And the people/characters in Genesis…are those whom the Judeo Christian faith started with.

3. Favorite New Testament Character…well now that’s a toss up between Paul and Peter. Paul…what an incredible man…so transformed by Jesus. From one persecuting and killing Christians…to one who took the gospel message to the world.

4. Favorite Apostle…Peter. Okay…I solved my dilemma by choosing Peter in this category. Why Peter…because I feel most like him. Bold enough faith to step out of the boat and try and walk on water…yet sinking when he gets his eyes off Jesus and on the storm instead. Peter…who at one moment proclaims that Jesus is the Christ…and the next is telling Jesus may it never be…about him going to the cross. I feel most like a Peter. Good intentions…love my Lord…and have a big mouth in which my feet can be frequently found.

5. Okay…how about favorite coffee? Starbucks Breakfast Blend. Smooth, steady…but light. But in no way wimpy.

6. Favorite coffee place and drink? That’s easy…the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf. Now really…must I limit myself to one drink? Favorite coffee drink…a large vanilla latte with soy milk, an extra shot…extra hot. Another treat…is the white chocolate latte…oh yeah. But why limit yourself to just one? Favorite tea latte…Blueberry Pomegranate Tea Latte…with soy of course. And of course a scone to go along with it…blueberry or cherry please. Really…honest and truly…you deserve a treat today…so you head on over to the Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf.

7. Favorite movie…shucks…I don’t know for sure. There are certain movies I could watch over and over again…and never grow tired. Rudy…just love that movie. Groundhog Day…As Good As It Gets…A Wonderful Life…You’ve Got Mail…Apollo 13. Well I guess there won’t be just one favorite movie. So on to the next favorite.

8. Favorite radio show…Dennis Prager. Wonderful…and I really feel like I am getting an education. Between the wisdom and knowledge of Dennis and that of his guests I can’t help but learn and grow. (Now Dennis has annoyed me of late over his flaking on his subscription service…but dog gone it…still love the man.)

9. Favorite author…that’s a little bit hard. But if push comes to shove…and I had to pick one author’s books to have with me on a deserted island…I’d pick Jan Karon’s books. Positively delightful…simple and easy…yet profound. When reading her books…you feel like you could step into the pages and onto the streets of Mitford…and make friends with characters therein. Lovely.

10. Favorite TV or Radio Ministry…Charles Stanley with In Touch Ministries. He has heart and love for God. A high view of God…and a love, care and compassion for man. Rooted and grounded in the Word of God.

11. Favorite church? Oh come on…that’s not even a contest. Of course it’s Kindred Community Church…and all the wonderful people that are members…and attend. I extend a personal invitation to any of you who would like to attend. Click on the above link for service times and directions.

12. Favorite Pastor…my dear beloved former Pastor…Chuck Obremski. Passionate for God and his Word. No nonsense…loved truth…and loved people. He was real…and shared openly and honestly…both the good and the bad. I look forward to seeing him in heaven one day soon.

13. Favorite attribute of God…grace. Why? Because I am in such need of an outpouring of grace each day. And I also need to learn that attribute as well so I may extend it to others.

Continuing to look at the list from Revive Our Hearts that compares the attributes of persons who are proud verses those who are broken.

Proud = Concerned with being respectable, with what others think; work to protect their own image and reputation.

Broken = Concerned with being real; what matters to them is not what others think but what God knows; are willing to die to their own reputation.

Proud = Find it difficult to share their spiritual need with others.

Broken = Willing to be open and transparent with other as God directs.

It’s always important to keep in mind God’s perspective.

“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” – Psalm 51:17

“He mocks proud mockers but gives grace to the humble.” Proverbs 3:34

At Bible Study Fellowship tonight…our teaching leader Terri shared a very convicting list…or self inventory. She only read a few items on the list…but oh my goodness. When I got home…I did a quick internet search and found the list.

I think I will focus on one or two items at a time…so as to better evaluate myself. I hope that you will do the same. If you would like to view the full list…please click on the link to Revive Our Hearts Radio.

Proud People = Quick to blame others

Broken People = Can accept personal responsibility and see where they are wrong in the situation

Proud People = Unapproachable or defensive when criticized

Broken People = Receive criticism with a humble and open spirit

When reflecting about stress…and what’s its like for me…I describe it as having a full plate and people keep coming along and adding to that already full plate. Unaware of what else I have pending and the urgency of it. In other words…they can be rather oblivious to anything other than their request.

At the Women’s Retreat at Kindred Community Church this Saturday…one of the topics was stress. As I reflected further on stress I realized…that on occasion God may add to my full plate. Unlike people he is fully aware of what’s on that plate…yet he may choose to put more on it. Why? Perhaps the reasons vary. But I think that one aim that God may have in doing so is to encourage me to turn to him. To recognize that I am unable to carry the load on my own. Another reason…may be to get me to wake up to the fact that I’m carrying loads that he never intended for me to carry. I’m taking on undue burdens.

Have you ever offered to help someone…and can plainly see they need assistance? Yet…they refuse your help…even when it’s genuinely offered with good intentions.
How many times do I fail to accept God’s help?

How many times am I oblivious to the cares and concerns of others…when I go to them and need something? Am I solely focused on what I need…and not see what pressure, stress or needs they have?

By Jason Whalen – 3/26/06

This week Bob Kraning was away…and we had guest speaker/Pastor, Jason Whalen give this morning’s message. Jason is on staff at Evangelical Free Church of Fullerton. It was pleasure hearing Jason speak…he has a passion for God…is well rooted and ground in the Bible and has a high view of God. Jason’s message was from John 1:1-3. Below are notes taken during Jason’s sermon.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.” – John 1:1-3

Truth came to life. To live is Christ, to die is gain. Chuck Obremski’s life was a picture of these words. These are words not only to say…but words to live by. The gospel really works.

Some things in this life seem muddy and unclear. But God’s word is clear. Some things…God’s word and the truth’s therein are iron clad. The glory of God is seen throughout the gospel. The gospel…the Bible…that’s clear…its iron clad.

Now some example of not so clear messages…can be found in church bulletins:

• The sermon this morning: “Jesus Walks on the Water” The sermon tonight: “Searching for Jesus”
• Smile at someone who is hard to love. Say “hell” to someone who doesn’t care much about you.
• This evening at 7 P.M. there will be a hymn sing in the park across from the Church. Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin.
• Low Self Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 PM. Please use the back door.

Unlike humans…God never makes mistakes…or gives an unclear message. God desires that we his bride, the church of Christ, grow.

John 1:1 – In the beginning was the word (logos):
1) – Revelation…what has been revealed.
2) – Life and light….purpose…a certain kind of life and light.
3) – Invitation

Logos = A principle originating in classical Greek thought which refers to a universal divine reason, immanent in nature, yet transcending all oppositions and imperfections in the cosmos and humanity. An eternal and unchanging truth present from the time of creation, available to every individual who seeks it. A unifying and liberating revelatory force which reconciles the human with the divine; manifested in the world as an act of God’s love in the form of the Christ.

1) Revelation
Logos is God. God of eternity past…he has never not been. Created everything that has been made. Why didn’t God say that in the beginning was Christ?

Logos…the absolute elite. All meaning, reason and ideals. The pinnacle…the source of everything.

Jesus invests the word logos into a person. Jesus is the ultimate reality in all the universe. But he is knowable today.

The logos entered time and space. John 1:10 “He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him.” Something new has begun…a new thing.

God spoke to us through his Son. Jesus has made God known to us. No one has ever seen or heard God. John 1:18 “No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father’s side, has made him known.”

Do you take these concepts and implant them in your heart? Jesus is prepared to see you through any circumstance that you face.

He created time and space. Colossians 1:17 – “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” He created the universe and sustains it. He holds the universe together and even our very lives and family.

2) Light and life…he came to give us a certain kind of life…a life in him. John 1:4-5 – “In him was life, and that life was the light of men. 5The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.”

Life…Bios and Zoë.
Bios – biological life…air, blood, oxygen.
Zoë life…experience, vitality and passion.

We have a choice…to live a transforming life…or one in which we just go through life. In Mere Christianity…C. S. Lewis talks about the difference between Bios and Zoë.

We can live a life of vitality and significance…one of purpose…large. Bios or Zoë life…it’s the difference between looking at a picture…and living a real life and actual experience.

Jesus has given us this life. Before we were under the weight of the law or lived under paganism.

Light verses darkness. The darkness has not understood it (the light). Did not grasp it nor conquer it.

Darkness – danger, aimless, disorientation and fear.

But God…gave us a light that would fill our lives. Light…safety, purpose, pathway, peace and confidence that settles in us. An intelligence…not to make you smarter…but one that can change your life. We are to be light bearers. The darkness is expelled because of the light. No longer living in confusion, anxiety or difficulty.

3) Invitation

John 1:10 – “He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him.” The world did not recognize him…and did not receive him. He gave us the right…the authority to become the children of God.

Beginning…the ultimate reality…God himself. He created everything, came to give light and life. He can do this with you…only he can do this…not you. You are a child of God. You are a child of purpose.

John 1:13 – “13children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.

Need more clarity in your life? Invite Jesus to shine more light into your life…more clarity…to give you something greater.

With the admonition from my dear beloved former Pastor, Chuck Obremski to “Be a pig for Jesus” how could I resist the temptation to purchase this little garden pig?

Honestly…there are days in which I would much rather be the chicken…and just contribute to the meal…by giving an egg or two. Especially when the opposition is great…the days are dark…the silence is overwhelming…and the rewards are few.

But that is not what my Savior has called me to do. He instead has called me to be fully committed…sold out to God. In other words…be like the pig who has given his all. Not just a contributor…but one who is fully committed.

It’s been a while…quite a while since I’ve been down to visit the flower fields in Carlsbad. My mom Gayle and step dad Joe use to live down in the Carlsbad/Oceanside area. Each year…about this time…I’d drive down and we’d make the trek over to see the flower fields.

Walk the lovely hillsides covered in flowers. Some days…sunny and bright with a lovely sea breeze blowing and sometimes overcast with a slight chill in the air. Those days the visit would be abbreviated as a light rain would start to fall.

It was really odd driving down there today. Filled with lots of memories. Some good…some not so good. Unfortunately…the last memories of spending time down in Oceanside were surrounding Joe’s death…and about a year later…my mom being diagnosed as having Alzheimer’s. Stressful…difficult…not real pretty.

But also memories of some good times…came to mind. That included visits to the flower fields…or a trip over to a great fish house…Fish House Vera Cruz in downtown Carlsbad…or maybe even catching a movie or a trip to the shopping mall.

It’s also been quite a while since I’ve had any quite time…down time…time away. A day…where I could spend it doing nothing or whatever I wanted. A time where there were no demands, no one asking for things…or needing this or that.

A time for quite…to just sit. So after walking the spectacular flower fields…I sat down on a garden bench. A truly lovely day…a perfect day. Sunny…but not too hot. Not a cloud in the sky…and slight breeze blowing off the ocean onto the hillside. I was quiet…and felt God impressing thoughts and ideas upon me. Thoughts that all too often I drown out or don’t make time for…because I’m a human doing not a human being.

So…here are some of my lesson I learned today…just in random order. Bible Study teacher Beth Moore calls them God Spots. Today…I had a God Spot…and God spoke to my spirit.

• Enjoy the trip…not just the goal. The journey may be long…and the journey is really where you prove your character. Or the lack thereof is revealed.
• Really the end goal is a small piece of the puzzle compared to the journey…so make the most of it.
• In looking at the flower fields…there was the contrast between some of the fields that were in full bloom and those whose blooms were sparse. When I’m connected to God…my harvest is plentiful…when I’m not….when I’m doing it on my own power…the harvest is rather sparse.
• In looking at the fields of purple flowers…I noticed a lone white flower. It stood out…and sometimes I feel like that lone flower in the midst of a huge field with plants of another kind. That’s when I feel out of place…out of my element.
• Sometimes you have to go through difficult times…to get through the other side and see the good and beautiful things that God has in store for you. But you have to go through it…there no way around it…or out of it. But God will be with you in it.