Exposed

So, last Wednesday we were at our usual Youth Group gathering...had a little smaller than normal group- Maybe in the 30 some youth range... 7- 12th graders. "My girls" are the seventh-grade girls; as I am their small group leader. They are so great!


Anyway, another leader and myself did a little comic-drama-skit...a little like a twist on "Pilgrim's Progress"- incorporating a number of the Bible verses we'd gone through over the past year, and a lead into the passage for that evening- being Hebrews 12:1-3

"Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance, and the sin which so easily entangles us , and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter, of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

So picture my friend and I- who are both ladies born of the late nineteen-fifties, coming in while our Youth Director is talking to the youth about this verse... Both she and I are loaded down with all kinds of luggage, we are dressed in running gear- however she is wearing high heels and some other glam accessories, we have medals draped about our necks, I am sending/receiving multiple text-messages on my obnoxiously-ringing cell phone, I am juggling a trophy, we both have ear buds, I am wearing a lampshade decked out in ribbon curls with 'party-party-party' on it, she is carrying a case of 'beer'- of the 'root kind', I've got a bag of snack food, she has white powder around her nose, I have a mouth smeared with chocolate.......the luggage is marked with signage: Entertainment, Stars, Abuse, Promiscuous Sex, Difficult Family Issues, Loneliness, Rejection.... Got the picture?

Little by little, as the Youth Director goes through different verses we've studied, we slowly, and reluctantly, begin to disengage from the things we have been carrying... At the very end, the last thing we try to hide, and cling to- are our 'blankies' (everyone has a 'blankie' of some kind in their life).... We are being encouraged to let everything go- except for Christ, because He will provide EVERYTHING we need to live a godly life... (1 Peter 1:3 "His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.")

As we stood up in front of the group, and began to lay down all the stuff we'd brought in with us... in the midst of trying to demonstrate these truths to the youth- I am struck with how 'exposed' I felt up there, as I got rid of more and more 'stuff. I was hoping the youth would get this lesson- but didn't expect to 'feel it' like I did up there--- And I realized how 'scary' it can be to be to change... to let go of the stuff that I think makes me who-I-am... and let go of all the things the 'entangle/encumber'... even when I let them go willingly.... With each letting go, I needed Him more...and I needed to look to other Believers there to encourage me to keep letting go, and go on....

His love and sacrifice can be scary- at least it was to me late one night in the spring of 1982- when I knew I needed to acknowledge that Jesus had taken my sin upon Himself....died on the cross as a penalty for my sin... And the most wonderful news: He arose on the third day- Resurrection Day! I had been Redeemed! And that was the beginning point of Transformation by the Holy Spirit in my life. Perfection has not yet come for this Redeemed soul- but God continues to gently ask me hand over to Him more and more of the stuff in my life to Him.... Each time He gently removes something, He doesn't leave me empty-instead, He fills that space in my life, my being, with Himself and His gifts-- leaving a greater fullness to my life; and, instead of feeling more weighed down (like with my worldly stuff) I am even lighter, and freer that I could have imagined back when I was carrying around all 'my stuff'.

Well, my friend and I were certainly 'fools for Christ' that evening- and our prayer was for the youth to learn of Truth through the presentation- And through it, God chose to show Himself to me in a deeper way as well. Reminding me of how tender a moment it is when someone He loves chooses to lay down the things of this world, and trade them in for His love... it can be scary, intimidating, exposing, freeing, rewarding, amazing...!

Mark 8: 34-37

"If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever wishes to save his life shall lose it. but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel's shall save it. For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul? For what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?"

~Here is a sketch of our skit~ Much of it is adlib, and this isn't written in full-script- mainly just gives a framework:

YGSKIT4.20.2011

Review of lessons from ‘Choose’
Key verse this eve: Hebrews 12:1 “Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”
Players and Props: 1 ‘straight man’ 1-2 “runners”
Runner(s): dress in warm-up/running wear, but have these props as well:
‘dirty mouth’- (chocolate smeared around)
Powdered nostril- representing drugs
Party hat- rep. partying
case of root beer – partying/alcohol
High heels, medals, trophies…—rep. status/achievements
Cell phone for texting- one of the runners keeps texting friends about EVERYTHING!
Blankie(s)- rep. security (each Runner has one)
Luggage- different ones marked with signage: hurts, wounds, fears, abuse, promiscuous sex, difficult family stuff, fear, entertainment, rejection loneliness, awards, status..…
Ear plugs, on a string- rep. not respect authority
……..
[Jarrod will be the straight-man, basically ad lib based on theme….btw info on Nero is taken from Beth Moore study “To Live Is Christ”]
Jarrod: Give background on key verse for tonight- Hebrews written by Apostle Paul, who has lived the “Roman Empire Dream”, including witnessing many of the sporting events- including the very popular running events, and the ruler, Nero’s antics. In the year A.D. 67, the year of Paul’s death, the ‘soft-bellied’, thirty-nine year old emperor Nero, had the nerve to enter himself into the Olympics. The true Olympians had been training for years for these games…Nero was in pitiful shape and not prepared, but who would speak up and tell him, “Dude- if you try this, people will be using terms like “EPIC FAIL” a couple thousand years from now! Don’t do it.”..but no one dared speak up to Nero, so he entered the foot race…in a chariot! With a ten-horse team no less! During the race, he actually fell out of the chariot and needed help getting back in- he got off track- and never finished----Yah, he was still awarded the prize- a stunning wreath placed on his head, and he was hailed victor! He ‘thanked’ the citizens by giving them some tax relief… Paul doesn’t want any Christ Followers to run life’s race like Nero, which was pretty lame! So now listen to what Paul writes- as a warning, as an encouragement: (screen 1) Hebrews 12:1 “Let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” (during this verse, the Runners jog toward Jarrod…..Jarrod gives Runners a classic Jarrod look of WHAT?  And asks, what Runners what doing?---
Runners: We have a marathon we want to run in-
Jarrod- what’s up with all your gear?
Runners: We don’t go anywhere without all this stuff…it’s ‘who we are’..
Runners:- (one of you be txting the ‘whole’ time, someone off stage should keep send txts during first part)
Jarrod- isn't it hard to run with all that stuff on?
Runners: Maybe….kinda…(shift baggage)….well, yah….
Jarrod- you know you really don’t have to run the race with all that extra stuff-?
Runners: Like how?
Jarrod: Think about the Bible lessons we’ve had this past year- Like, you don’t have to be weighed down by those trophies and medals- and you don’t have to try to run in high heels- remember Lesson 5 , we talked about Titus 3:4-5 (put up on screen 2 *Have STUDENTS read these aloud with Jarrod?) “ But when the kindness and love of God our Saviour appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.”
And in Lesson 6, we looked at Titus 2: 11-12 (screen 3) “ For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self- controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age.”
Runners: Yah, guess I won’t be needing these (medals, trophies, high heels, powered nose, root beer, promiscuity bag, dirty mouth…………….take these ‘off’ and set aside- Runners note becoming ‘freerer’)
Runners: That actually feels pretty good to be rid of those things in my life- [pick luggage back up, look ready to go..]
Jarrod: Wait…there’s more, how about Lesson 2, from Psalm 1:1-2 (screen 4) “Blessed are those who do not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but who delight in the law of the Lord and meditate on the law day and night”…?
Runners: (looking over themselves- then remove party hat, put cell phone away,)“Nice!” this is really feeling good-
Jarrod: so what are those bags you’re still hanging on to?
Runners: oh, these- well, they’re really hard to leave behind…
Jarrod: would you like some help with them?
Runners: yah…
Jarrod: (while helping-taking from Runners and setting aside) “You know, when you give these up to the Lord, and ask God to help, He will give you something much better- like in Lesson 8, we talked about the verses in Galatians 5:22-23 (screen 5) “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control…”
Runners: I’m fine with trading those bags in and having those gifts instead!
Jarrod: Isn't it kinda hard to hear your Coach’s instructions with those earplugs in?
Runners: yah, but I don’t like hearing all those rules the Coach is always telling me!
Jarrod: but don’t you have to follow rules to be able to run in the race?
Runners: probably would do better, staying on that path, even though it is narrow- at least I know I’m on the right track…
Jarrod: (screen 6) Romans 13:1 says “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities”, that was in Lesson 17 and Psalm 19:7 says “ The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul”- that was in Lesson 3
Runners: Guess we could use some more refreshment! Okay- these [ear plugs] can go…. Hey, Wow, this will make it a lot better now to run in this race! [Tuck in/try to ‘hide’ blankies]
Jarrod: uh..you know.. you don’t need that ‘blankie’ anymore-
Runner: WHAT??? Not my blankie!
Jarrod: Remember Lesson 7, 2 Peter 1:3 (screen 7) “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.”
Runner : “How much did His diving power give us, to live a godly life?”
Jarrod: (turn to STUDENTS…ask students) How much?
STUDENTS with Jarrod lead: (screen 8) Everything!
Runner 1: Ok- guess with the verse and all these people here to help (us) and cheer us on…I can leave my blankie…. [Runner 2, reluctantly agree to leave blankie if Runner 1 will]
Jarrod: That’s awesome, because James 1:22 says (screen 9) “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” [Runners, High-Five each other]
Runner: And, don’t forget, (screen 10) Philippians 3:13-14 “One thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” (with this, Runners jog off stage….Jarrod lead students in ‘cheering on’ the Runners…)

Sockdolager

"That's a real 'sockdolager' for sure!" Now there's a phrase we don't hear much nowadays! In fact, I don't believe I'd heard the term prior to an economics class we had this past week- came across it in a recount by Davy Crockett. It is a term used to 'settle the matter'- a 'decisive blow/answer/finisher'- something 'outstanding or exceptional'. Some believe the the term to have a rural bent on the words sock (as in hit hard) and doxology.

I think the greatest sockdolager is Jesus Christ. According to John 14:6- 'Jesus answered, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." Whether or not you agree with His claim- you have to admit that's a sockdolager if there ever was one!

Jesus Christ came, and through His life, death and resurrection- settled the matter of sin and victor- It was a decisive blow to Lucifer. Jesus said on the cross 'It is finished' (John 19:30) And, in an outstanding and exceptional way, He will someday return as Finisher.

As much as there are many that refuse to believe these things for themselves- and even go as far as to say they believe there is no God--- they prove the inherent nature of mankind to believe in something/someone....even if it is nothing/no one.

Mankind was created to worship- it isn't a matter of IF you will worship- but who or what you WILL worship. For to give honor, reverence- seeking divine...all take some shape or form in ones life.

By design, mankind strives to find something 'more'; have a desire to know there is something bigger than themselves....Many, as Get Smart would say 'Missed it by that much', and settle for science, ideologies, relationships, self, a 'legacy'...

There is also a drive within us for truth and justice. If left of our own accord, we will naturally turn to what is just/right in our own eyes. The 'law' is written on our hearts- but sadly many look to that law in their own heart- and do not question there being an Author of that law; the law then becomes perversed and abused by our egocentric/pride-filled natural desires.

Even a 'born beauty' raised to believe they 'deserve' to be the central figure of life- is, though beautiful on which to set our eyes- sadly, not one we'd call a loving friend...and as a fruit, rotting from the inside out- the beauty will also naturally fade.

The 2nd Law of Thermodynamics even supports the principle of things, basically, left to there own- will ultimately break apart...cars, buildings, people, chemicals...

But we were not left alone. There is true everlasting Beauty to be found. There is Truth and Justice that will stand for eternity. There is something, Someone, more~ bigger than us- more powerful, more intelligent, more powerful, more loving, more just, more creative, more beautiful.... more everything! And He desires us to have a relationship with Him through His Son, Jesus Christ.

Now that's the Ultimate Sockdolager!

"All Summer In One Day"

I can't exactly remember the grade, or the teacher (had to be in the 1960's though); we watched a film in school based on a Ray Bradbury story "All Summer In A Day". Besides being a bit of a freaky-film, it was memorable for me for several reasons. Probably as a youngster, the 'not fitting in' theme was the biggest.

The premise of the story is about a young girl, moved onto 'Venus'. Her class mates mock her recollections about life on earth, especially about seeing sunshine. The sun shining on 'Venus' comes rarely- can be any number of years before it shows itself, and then, only briefly. Her classmates speculate about the upcoming possibility of the sun's appearance; and in childish form, the classmates, particularly one boy, gets even more mean to the girl-- to the point of locking her in a room. That is about the time word gets out that the rain is slowing, and the elusive sunshine is at hand--- quickly the young girl is forgotten, as all the children, and their teacher are drawn outside to marvel... So taken in are they, the young girl is abandoned, left in the dark, alone...while everyone else is out side experience great exhilaration. (You can catch the film on Youtube.)

These days, I think the film gives a glimpse of some of what it is like to live challenged with Myalgic Encephelomyelitis. M. E. could be 'the 'bully', or even the unpredictability of sunshine on 'Venus'. In that, those wonderful minutes, hours, maybe a few days in a row of feeling optimally well -are so glorious amid the many other days, hours, minutes of feeling so ill, on so many levels...

Another view of similarity could be taken. There are many times, when the sun of life is out, others are taking advantage of it in fullness- and we are 'locked away by M.E.'...confined, ill, wondering if we will ever be up to catch a ray of that sunshine again; meanwhile we catch glimpses of others who seem to race by, we hear their voices of urgency, eagerness, happiness- We try to get our 'doors unlocked'- but can't budge. Sadly- slipping back into unconsciousness is almost a relief.

Some mistakenly believe we like lying there. But truly, the vast majority of M.E. sufferers are actually 'type A' personalities, wrapped in invisible lead blankets; who want very much to be up and about and running around with everyone else.

When moments of 'sun' dawn on us- a part of us wants to just soak it in, but instead we rush about with all we can muster- trying to get something, anything, done-before it disappears again, and we sink into darkness. As if a huge curtain rises and falls on our life, aside from our will; teasing us mercilessly.

Through decades of dealing with this phenomenon, I have been forced to consider what I value most. And to consider in times of light, and in darkness- what is the main thing.

As a Believer, I have learned that my 'comfort' isn't the main thing. The more concentrated I am on the removal of pain, the more I am concentrated on the pain, the more the pain becomes central.

Instead- God is more concerned for my character- learning and growing in my walk of faith, and knowledge of Him. So in light or dark, to what degree possible- I try to set my mind, heart, soul and body toward what He is teaching me; And how- even in my circumstance- with whatever I can offer to Him- I want to learn from Him, and I want to serve Him. Amazingly, a secondary benefit in this is pain reduction. ("...seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.' Matthew 6:33)

Along with this is the multiplicity of being 'productive'. For most of us long to be productive! Before we were struck down- we were known as productive people. Got a lot done, did it well, good work ethic...we liked being that way, others liked us that way...wasn't just about what we did, it was also a part of who we were. So, when that kind of productivity is no longer there- what is our value? ...Where did the people go...

Thankfully, as a Believer- the value I have, is simply that value which God places on me- because of Who He Is. In His gracious nature of being- He calls me valuable. Humbled by this- He will lift me up. ('Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.' James 4:10) Even when I am at my most 'useless' state to those around me, He loves and values me, just because- He says I am valuable. Wow- the very LORD of the universe and beyond...Creator of ALL... the One Who Breathes Life and Light..... He says- 'you matter, you are valuable, you are not forgotten, you have purpose---I AM at work, even as you are set apart to rest'.

His redemptive nature, applied to my circumstance, says that whether I am suffering or in moments of lucidity and energy- He is at work. He invites me to be apart of what He is doing, His way... To others, it may not look like much- but even while lying there, if I am at least some what aware- I can turn that time into a wonderful time- where I enter the Throne Room of Grace- and bring the sacrifice of praise to the Almighty; I can bring Him petitions on the behalf of loved ones, for those who have yet to know Him, for those in need, and those rejoicing...

I may still be a weak vessel lying there- but empowered by the Holy Spirit, I am transformed into a Humble Servant of a Great and Loving King. This brings rest to my soul and being, besides rest to my body. Let the Sonshine~

" Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

Polarized Parenting Practices

I have noticed a number of parents parenting out of 'fear'- not necessarily consciously; but their parenting practices show it. The polarized parenting practice is that which is borne out of 'freedom'. Let's take a look at how these different practices reveal themselves. Some I will just name- some I'll go into more detail~

The first fear that comes to my mind is the 'fear of harm'; harm that may come to my child. I think it is a common, and understandable fear. It is a good thing to fear for our child's well-being, that fear can move us to take necessary precautions. The danger of this fear is when it is at a point where the parent becomes immobilized, or may over-protect (gotta love that bubble-wrapped kid in that commercial), or perhaps the parent has a lack of this fear and in fact is a danger to the child. Fear, left unchecked can quickly run the gamut, unless it is balanced by the Father, and our Creator, with freedom. This kind of freedom is not equal to absence of fear, but that the fear is filtered and regulated through our trust in God for the outcome- with a healthy dose of 'having done all,stand' (Ephesians 6:13)

Many parents practice out of a fear of loss of control. The freedom-filter for this is not only knowing, but acknowledging the Truth- that God is control; we are to submit to His Lordship. To parent well- I must first recognize His Lordship- not mine, not the child's... A 'me' or 'child' centered home is an unhealthy home. A Christ-centered, Christ-controlled home is healthy.

Loss or 'self-identity' can creep in. A parent may feel that they no longer recognize themselves- this new role takes on paramount proportions and we feel we are losing our self. We are too busy, too tired to be anything other than - too busy, too tired. But calls us valuable (James 4:10) and tells us, amoung other places- in the first chapter of Ephesians- who we are. We can be assured that no matter how much circumstances change- our identity in Christ is secure.

This security can also be shaken by the fears of not being 'liked' or 'loved' by our child. Parenting to please our child (which is really parenting to please our self) is dangerous to all involved. As Believers- we are to parent to please God. (Ephesians 5:1-2, 15-21,6:4) And our child is to learn that the real deal is to please God, ultimately. A parent shows true love- when parenting to please God, not self or child.

More 'loss issues' can surface--and there are fears tied into loss. Fear/loss of finances, free time, status, fear of what others will think.... Not a lot of accolades for you when you are wiping a snotty nose, scraping off cereal dried to the walls, kissing the boo-boo, changing the umpteenth diaper, get and amazing burp out of the baby....You may even meet resistance when you say 'no' to your child, or have them go back to the store to personally tell the manager that they took that sucker off the shelf and didn't pay for it.... We must keep perspective- a Heavenly perspective. Again- to please God, and that along each step there is a consequence, and we are looking farsightedly at what God has in store for us and our children, and our children's children....someday. There is eternal value/consequence in everything we are doing; with generational and eternal consequence. Know it counts- you are going about raising a child of the King- and for this, the King will reward, and will provide~ (Heb 13:5-6 Ephesians 5)

Again- we can easily get overwhelmed by any of these fears- we can be immobilized, thinking that if I don't do anything- there is nothing to fear! Ah, but the rub is that in fact there is still something to fear, because 'not doing anything' is 'doing something' too! It will still produce consequences. Instead- look at parenting as a adventure, and be energized by it. God didn't just drop you off on a 'survivor island' all by yourself- He gave you His Word and His Holy Spirit to guide and instruct you on this journey. He has also given you opportunities for Fellowship with other Believers...

Parenting out of fears brings the fruits of such things as- anger, rebellion, bitterness, selfishness, depression.... Parenting out of the freedom we have in God through Christ- and godly submission, we have: peace, patience, kindness, self-control, lovingkindness.(Galatians 5:22-23)

So what do you want your child to 'be' when they grow up? Not asking 'do'...but what do you want them to BE? Stopping to consider that question is crucial; even more so for a Believing parent, as that question will surpass this mortal life. There is an eternity in question here. Once you decide- it will help you determine if you will consistently take the parenting practice road of fear, or freedom.

Keep in mind that when I say fear- I do not mean the opposite of peace. As in the beginning, fear itself can be a good thing. The bigger issue then is how we place fear- if it is misplaced fear, we have foolish results, even harmful.

However, if our fear is well-placed- it leads to wisdom. For in this mortal life we will not ever be free of 'fear'- but how we respond to it is critical. The Bible says, in Proverbs 1:7 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge...' (James 3:13-18 Ephesians 5:15-17)

We need to, everyday- take the time to acknowledge that God is God; ask Him for His wisdom to meet the challenges and joys of the day. Give Him all your fears, ask Him to filter them, and provide His strength, knowledge and wisdom. Allow Him to reveal how He has uniquely formed each of His children He has placed in your care. Thank Him that He has not left you alone to do this- but thank Him for giving you His Word and Spirit, and for His promise to help....to His glory~

knitting lessons

I think as far back as I heard told- one of my great-grandmothers was a knitter. My mom's mom was a knitter too; and a crocheter, quilter, tatter, embroiderer... She produced blue-ribbon quality artwork (craft didn't seem to fit)... Whatever project she put her hands to, no matter how small or large the task- I guarantee you that the back of the piece was just as much artwork as the front. She was meticulous. I am so thankful to have some of her artwork... from small, delicate doilies- to a queen sized bed cover, knitted with such fine thread, it is more like lace.

My great-grandmother continued to knit, even after she went blind. Most probably what we call macular degeneration. My mom always marveled at that story- as I marveled at her with all the knitting projects she continued with, well after her own macular degeneration and retinal issues stole much of her sight. Sewing and knitting were my mom's two favorites, and in later years- she took mostly to knitting. Many prayer shawls came to being in her hands- bringing comfort to others through her faith community. While our children were younger- each was blessed with many a handcrafted wonder- from dolls to dresses, animal mittens to afghans- and more. 'I just can't sit and do nothing!' was her sentiment. She had every reason to just sit; the osteoporosis ate away at her spine until it was an unstable stack, pinching off so many nerves. But she was content if she could have a couple 'sticks' and a ball of yarn. My mom had bouts with serious childhood illnesses- many keeping her in bed for days on end. Grandma taught mom how to knit to help her occupy those long and painful days of bedrest. Both women supported the troops through the Red Cross during 'THE war' by rolling bandages and knitting.

Grandma, gave me my first knitting lessons when I was a girl. It was not a natural talent for me. But since trying to crochet, and sew were even more disasterous, we stuck with knitting lessons. Even for how meticulous and gifted she was- she didn't get cross with me; we'd just try it again; and I was glad just to be with her. I never did quite get the hang of doing it her way- but I did find a way that worked, and was mostly the 'right' way....she was fine with me just trying it, and didn't get after me for not doing it the 'right way'.

But adolescence stole me away from the burgeoning talent. Just wasn't a 'cool'- teenage activity. Too many other things to do. So there sat my little collection of sticks-n-yarn.

College days came- I began to embrace the nerd in me; that, and I was in that 'lady in waiting for a prince' season- I picked up my sticks, and launched into the crazy world of knitting a scarf, an afghan- even a sweater! I am sure that both my mother and grandmother were glad to see me again pick up a form of my heritage in handcraft; but they wisely did not share that glee with me at that tender stage.

Life again came hard and fast. Sticks were packed away again, for years... Finally I began to get them out little by little, and even began to expand my numbers and varieties of sticks! By now my grandmother had passed on; and my mom graciously began to little by little, provide me we more sticks, and a ball of yarn here and there, and an occasional pattern... I still was not an artist on par with my grandmother or mother- but I kept at a project or twogoing, here and there.

Following in these women's knit-steps, these days I pretty much have a smaller knitting project near a chair, and a cloth bag set to grab if going somewhere which may provide opportunity to add a few more rows. As my mom and grandma, I don't like 'just sitting there'!

I think my grandmother was the quintessential handcrafter; she artfully dove into color, textures, patterns and more in several practical and beautiful venues of handcraft.... Mom was an amazing sewer and knitter, and was especially attracted to complex patterns- those created by changing colors, or ones created by combining the yarn to form different textures. She blessed us with afghans, sweaters, hats n mittens. They usually had knitted into them a picture, or a complex nordic pattern, or inticate Irish design.... We all have something in which to wrap up on a chilly day- warmed not only by the fiber of yarn, but the fiber of love as well.

Me, well- after big beginnings with afghans and such, my current projects are much smaller, easy to take along, faster to finish. Right now I am sticking with different style hats, mittens, socks, dishcloths... and am trying multiple pairs of animal-puppet mittens. Nice to have something on hand for birthday, holiday, shower gifts.... I have found the fun of felting as well, and even knitted some purses last year.

Once in awhile I am asked to help a beginner with a knitting project- I tell them I am glad to help- as long as they don't mind if I show then 'my way', and not the 'right way'. It will accomplish the same thing- which is fine if one wants to get it done in such a way that works- but not good if one is looking to be a classic knitter.

I am thankful my grandma was so patient with me- She allowed me to learn to knit with the idea that it was not only practical- but to be enjoyable. My mom never forced me into doing one of her favorite things- but allowed me to self discover in my own way and own time; and supported me in the craft with resources. I now have, in addition to my own collection of sticks and knitting ware, some of my grandma and mom's; it is wonderful to have these simple tools that were once held in their own hands, together creating beautiful heirlooms. Knitting patterns from many years ago, I now can enjoy- some are a bit of history in hand, some timeless, some outdated- but dear because I remember wearing them! Some I am using now, some I will continue to hold on to, well-because it is 'our history'.

How sweet to have had the relationship I had with my grandma; some of our most memorable spent close together, untangling another knitted-knot. He unconditional love was the greatest gift.

Mom's role was different- she was there to guide and direct me. Much of my early life we butted heads because we both had good doses of German-Irish blood in us- both head strong, but we were very different in a lot of our approaches to things. Through the years we learned to appreciate the differences more, and extend more grace.

In knitting, my two favorite elements are texture and color. I don't do so much with knitting patterns of colors. I just like color- I love the variegated yarns and watching its own pattern emerge as I knit-best of both worlds to me. The different feels of wood or metal needles, and various fibers of yarn- there is a sense of calm that one can get.

Even when there is an occasional knot of yarn- there is satisfaction in gently working it out. My grandma taught me the secret (and I had plenty of opportunities to practice with her back then!); the secret to getting the knot out is to gently pull to loosen the lengths. Don't keep pulling on this end and that end trying to force it.

Just a gentle pull, a little here, a little there, until the knot center is loosened- and then one can begin to see the pathway of the lengths, find an end point, and begin to work that end back out of the congestion of yarn. Going gently and steadily would get one father, more quickly, than trying to 'horse' the knot into submission. Rarely, there would be a knot that was set for life; in this case one has to learn to recognize the situation for what it is, and break the tie, cut it off completely (wasting as little as possible of the good yarn), tie the ends back together, and continue on course.

The children's mittens I am knitting now may be small, but I chose the patterns in part because of the new things for me to learn in doing them. Not only am I knitting to shape the mitten, but with each animal representation, there are new colors and patterns. Some of the stitches are completely new to me. I have found that it is best to keep my head around the 'big picture' of what I am doing, how it will look- keep at the pattern til I get to the next 'new/challenging' part and 'worry about it' once I get to it. Once at the challenging part, I take it one stitch at a time, referring to guides if needed, until I come back to a part of the pattern I recognize again. And, full of wonder- hold it up, and viola! There it is! (Most of the time- thankfully knitting is a forgiving handcraft, and if it is not as should be, I can always just rip it up back to before the goof and start over from there!)

Although I have not 'bullet-pointed' lessons in this, they are, shall I say 'knitted' into this blog- I will allow you the satisfaction of finding them for yourself, as I did. I am quite sure that I have much to still learn from my experiences in knitting. I am thankful to have such a gentle handcraft to do , and to have had such gentle hands introduce and encourage me.

Around and Around and Around We Go~

Ok, so I was talking to a friend last night. My friend is a dear person, and is convinced that if we just love people more, they will be ok... I said we must land on justice, for them to be ok... So- either of us got this figured out?

As we walked along, she with her two children in hand, I pointed out a man in the crowd around us and said, "What if that man was coming at you with intent to murder us?" (yes, extreme, but bear with me for sake of discussion) "If you love that person- offer your love to him, will he most likely stop because you say 'Stop! because of the love I have for you'?"

Or, if he is coming toward you with malice attempt- justice should be served by halting him bodily, possibly with force?

Could it possibly be that we too often put love and justice at polarized ends of a spectrum, when in fact they are more dimensionally interrelated to each other.

I would agree with my friend, that at the core- there must be love. But in this old world, I know it will take more than my love alone- I just don't have enough in me. In fact, when it comes down to it- I have a very natural core of selfishness and sin... Even the most lovely of people will run out of enough 'love' to cover all the ills of the world. If one approaches life in this world with an 'it's ok, I love you anyway' approach to everything- I guarantee the person will run into difficulty. In our country, someone like this may even be labeled a 'vulnerable adult'.

So that is where the love I am talking about must come from Someone bigger than myself- From not only Someone bigger than the universe- but how bout Someone who created the universe- Someone who just spoke- and there was light! Oh, yah- that Someone really knows how to love in a bigger-than-big way!

Hmmm, so I started out though with love and justice- Back to justice now- The scene with the man coming at us! What, in this case really was the most loving thing to do-- 'lovingly' let him create mayhem and destruction- or, stop him, justly, keeping him and others from harm? Now, again- if I were stepping in with a personal sense of justice- why I could go along all through the crowd and probably find some injustice in each person- and at the least, verbally reprimand them, or bodily make my point- All in the name of 'justice'. But what if the approach to justice I take is from the One who is Just, Righteous, and I proceed according to His Way- I will be motivated and acting out of .......ready..

...Love! Ta-Da! Full circle.

Justice, according to His Way, is a extension of love-- Note that it is brought with the hand of mercy- and although the motivation for His justice is love, it is through the hand of mercy. Mercy is when we don't get what we really deserve. What we deserve is punishment for sin- that is justice. He then extends us mercy- for who can see mercy clearly until one sees his sin, and faces justice?

"A simpler and more familiar solution for the problem of how God can be just
and still justify the unjust is found in the Christian doctrine of redemption.
It is that, through the work of Christ in atonement, justice is not violated but
satisfied when God spares a sinner. Redemptive theology teaches that mercy does
not become effective toward a man until justice has done its work. The just
penalty for sin was exacted when Christ our Substitute died for us on the cross.
However unpleasant this may sound to the ear of the natural man, it has ever
been sweet to the ear of faith. Millions have been morally a spiritually
transformed by this message, have lived lives of great moral power, and died at
last peacdfully trusting in it." AW Tozer

Our finite minds tend more toward compartmentalizing things- instead of thinking of things, at least, on a continuum- or maybe further, as dimensional spheres... either way- God is infinitely, beautifully, wonderfully, complex. His precepts are interrelated, intricately woven into the fabric of this universe He created.

My friend and I were both wrong, and both right. Wrong, if we were to shortsightedly and staunchly looked, and held tightly, to 'our point of view'. Right, when we both stepped back from ourselves, and looked together through the eyes of God-- to find the 'bigger picture', the more complete picture- that we were both right, but just too shortsighted in view.

This God of ours is a God of complexity and dimension beyond anything we can hope to understand during in this mortal life. But what joy when He gives us even a glimpse of understanding His Ways-- Letting us see a glimpse of His Design. And He delights in sharing His Mystery with the ones He loves, and who love Him~

My friend and I no longer stand apart, on this 'issue'; in fact, it is no longer an 'issue'. That is another great Truth about who God is- Along with being a Redeemer- He longs for, and provides for, Reconciliation- unto Himself, and makes away of Reconciliation possible for people to people.

Hhmm- it does start with love, justice, mercy, love... His.

... it ends with love, justice, mercy, love...His.

A Case of Gimme-Gimme

So picture a room about 25ft by 25ft, a converted garage space, with large TV, computer for power point, sound equipment 2-3 musicians/vocalist, 3 large 'seasoned' couches, dozens of folding chairs...jr and sr highers streaming in, mostly jr highers...knocking snow of their tennies...bringing with them a blast of fresh-cold winter air, to balance the building Eud du Youth scent...lots of chatter; friendly- although sometimes crass, greetings.... Yep- it's youth group night! But sometimes it isn't long and it looks more like a seagull scene from the movie "NEMO"!

It isn't long and the crowd of near 40 is settling in, and surveying the lay out. "What do we get to _____ tonight?"... "Can I have ______" "Where's the ____, we had that here last week, why not this week?".... Weeks can go by with only a veritable few intentionally, with meaning, saying to one of the leaders, "Thank you."

Yah, been working with youth in some capacity for almost 25 years, so it's not a surprise, and not what I'm in it for. And, although it would be nice to hear 'thank you'. A civility lesson isn't what this is about. It is about something that may be even bigger...entitlement.

I do get bummed that the youth don't show thankfulness to the leaders- but it goes deeper than that....it is a disregard/disrespect of those who have chosen of their goodwill to provide a place to meet, places to sit, music, food, beverage, warmth..and more. And just because week after week they have the opportunity to enjoy these things, without cost- they have an expectation of those provisions being there the next time they come. Why- because they believe/feel 'entitled' to them. Most seem to not even have the stop-off place in their understanding called 'privilege', which may touch off a sense of gratitude.

Of course, I don't want to give the impression that youth have the corner on the entitlement sentiment- the thread runs deeply in adults as well. After all, where do these kids learn these things?

The Word alone has the answer to break through this mentality- to short circuit it and reroute it through the heart, soul and mind- where our minds are shown that reality, in Truth, none of of deserves a lick of anything. Really, if we are honest with ourselves- let's face it, all of us have messed up at some time...maybe some more and some less, but no one is perfectly good! There is something in all of us that wants to scream- 'you owe me' or 'I deserve this' or 'it's my right'!

Now while these statements may hold some truth in a legal sense; I am looking at them more in a moral-ethical sense. Really...what is it we all really 'deserve', and knowing ourselves so well (including our thought life),what if we all got true justice? I shudder just writing that!

As grandma used to say "when you point one finger at someone, just remember you have three pointing back at yourself'...and I have to admit my surprise at not only the areas of entitlement mentality I hold, but how deeply I hold them is astounding to me as well!

Within my DNA and yours, there has been embedded a unique code. It is amazingly minuscule- not visible to the eye or any powerful microscope- and yet this little bugger permeates our flesh, and whole being. Entitlement mentality, as well as many other forms with which it manifests itself, can be traced back to this code. Scientists have yet to discover it, but the existence of it, through these manifestations, is quite striking.

Of course Scripture is once again ahead of Science on this one- like it was with the earth being a sphere...and MANY other things... So what is this code embedded within us? It is pride, it is sin.

Yep- you knew that, didn't you? That thing affects so many areas of our mortal lives it never ceases to amaze us! It is quite fascinating too- just when you think you've gotten rid of it and are so humble-- you look in the mirror, and there it is! Now your proud about being so humble! Yep, it's a natural part of humanity. Just is.

"I have discovered this principle of life- that when I want to do what is right, I inevitably do what is wrong. I love God's law with all my heart. But there is another power within me that is at war with my mind. This power makes me a slave to the sin that is still within me. Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life that is dominated by sin and death?"

Boy- this guy's got it bad! But can you relate? He could have taken the seemingly 'easy way out' and took the attitude of 'I don't care'-- but we all know that's a lie, if we are honest.... But there's more to what he has to say-

"Thank God! The answer is in Jesus Christ our Lord. So you see how it is: In my mind I really want to obey God's law, but because of my sinful nature I am a slave to sin. So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you form the power of sin that leads to death. ...so God did what the law could not do. He sent his own Son in a body like the bodies we sinners have. And in the body God declared an end to sin's control over us by giving his son as a sacrifice for our sins. He did this so that the just requirement of the law would be fully satisfied for us, who no longer follow our sinful nature but instead follow the Spirit." Romans 7:21-8:4

So, basically, because of our nature/DNA of sin. We are basically pathetic, worse even. That is the truth. And crying out for what we 'deserve', what we are 'entitled' to....does not cover up the quiet Truth within us that we 'deserve' nothing at the least, and punishment all the more. And here the Answer comes- in human form of all things- to conquer this sin for us...to live out a sinless life- and yet still be punished to death, not for Himself- but for ME, for YOU, for OUR sins! Oh, even to get my heart, soul and mind around that to any degree brings to me a sense of overwhelming gratitude, thankfulness...love. ANY value I have is because the Answer has put that value on me because of Who He is- Love, Mercy, Peace, Redeemer, King, Almighty, Lord, Saviour...."Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up." James 4:7-10

So next time that entitlement lie bubbles up, which it will from time to time until the Lord releases us from this flesh- Breath in the Word Believer. Let the Holy Spirit reroute your DNA circuit through His Demonstrated Love on the cross, and present life. The first step to salvation, the ongoing steps of sanctification (growing in Christ's character)- all being at the same place- Humbling ourselves 'before the Lord', that's the key. And Honey those chain links of entitlement will drop away~ No more gimme-gimme, but rather- Lord, thank You, thank You! And this will spill over and out of you- so that there is an outpouring of love and gratitude to those around you too.

Entitlement has one focus. On 'me'. But the twins 'gratitude and thankfulness'- can't help but be a double blessing- and beyond!

Being Bolted Down in Space Part II

Following up on the 'Space theme' from the previous blog~ Another important aspect to all this is how the importance of having Space in our lives has dimensional consequences.

The decision to allow to have space in our personal lives (space/time to breathe in God's Word deeply, penetratingly...to rest...to see the excellent, the prize), not only will impact us personally, but will ripple-wave out to those around us as well.

In particular, I will concentrate on the affects of Space, or lack thereof, on our children.

Gatekeeping is actually a big part of most mothers' lives. A lot of the decisions we make on a daily basis have to do with our children's activities and logistics. It easy to allow our personal 'Space' to slip away, and we may work at guarding that; but are we also aware of how vital it is to build that Space into each of our children's lives?

If women, moms, are 'spinning out' with all they are balancing- what about our family, our children? Working with youth for over two decades- I've witness an ever escalating phenomenon- excessive youth involvement. Yes, there are those students who could benefit from doing an activity, and are involved in none- that we are made most aware of, and their need to be involved.... But, the concern I submit to you today is: what about the many (perhaps majority) of youth today that 'over-involved'. By over-involved- I mean that they have virtually no Space built in....let alone time to get needed sleep (one of the highest factors in Depression), to eat nutritiously, to eat together as a family, rest, experience quiet, connect face-to-face with others- outside of peers/school settings, go to church, do service projects.... Of course, even good things can crowd out Space....

So how do our youth learn the value of space-time. First, we adults have to have a good handle on it- that we have developed the discipline in our own lives- by seeing its value, based on our Belief... As a Gatekeeper, then we can guide and choose for our children the most 'excellent' of activities for them, which still leave Space for all.

This is quite counter-cultural, I should warn you. In fact, if you apply this principle of space-time, especially if you extend it to your family...you will most likely receive criticism. Even from others, possibly even from others in your church.

We will need a very secure 'Bolt' to give this a try! Here are a couple thoughts for starters....

First, we can look to Jesus Christ and His ministry-- there are many instances for you to find in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the New Testament, and I will allow you the pleasure of personal study of them. But there is a principle-thread throughout the times He spends with His disciples- He is teaching primarily by Modeling the lesson to His pupils/disciples. So that is the first lesson for us moms- we need to Model what we would like our children to learn (kids are smart! They know when the walk/talk thing is real or not!) Much of Modeling has an element of training in it...it is just simply what we do, because of who we are.

Another aspect to this principle is that when we do see Jesus giving a verbal lesson to the disciples- it is done in the context of daily living....that 'teachable moment'... One of His best tools was asking the disciples questions- but that followed some instruction already given by doing it, seeing it, hearing it.... Jesus did not compartmentalize what was being learned. For His teachings are more about the BEING like Him, than doing like Him. Jesus knew if they got the 'being' part, the doing would follow.

Culture says, or may I say- screams, at us to react in life- many times we are 'leading' by making decisions based on things like convenience, social/economic reward, popularity (adults are affected by a felt need to be popular as much as the youth- we just try to be more adult about it), one-upping, status, relativism.... things that appeal to our flesh; and if we haven't had our Space with God- will easily take control of the decision making process. (This can happen at an exponential rate of speed with the greater the number of children in the household )

Back to Scripture for more guidance- this time the Old Testament, in Deuteronomy 6: 4-9 It is very similar to Jesus' model, just more precisely given to the family....

"Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one! And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. And these words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart; and you shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. And you shall bind them as a sign on your hand and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. And you shall write them on the doorposts of your gates...."

Do you see the principles in this passage...connect it with Jesus' model...connect it with the Philippians passage from the previous blog about excellence. We must be diligent, intentional. We are commanded to do so. This is important. We must live it out ourselves....it will be caught, then taught. ....Moms, let us write them on the doorposts of our own gates, as the Gatekeepers- let us consider all we let in and out be weighed out by what pleases the LORD.

A lot to think about. Takes time. Takes space in the day. It may not be culturally popular- but absolutely necessary, essential, to Believing parents raising children; who's ultimate joy is that one day, their child will too walk in the way of the Lord~ " I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking the truth." 3John 4

Being Bolted Down in Space

My son and I have been studying the early-1900's in home education. Doing so, I dug out a 'Good Housekeeping' magazine from 1916; and a baby book from mom's cousin, dated 1923... I was showing them to my son- in part to see that this time in history wasn't all that long ago..

As I thumbed through the periodical and baby book- I was struck by what an amazing time this was- things were booming; there was a wave of new jobs, prosperity (before the depression hit), 'youth culture' was now en vogue, a plethora of new 'conveniences' were being offered as more women began working outside of the home. Also- social and religious 'norms' were shifting. This is when men such as Dewey introduced and implemented no longer teaching children the traditional morals, but rather, allow students to decide for themselves what is and isn't 'moral'. Within a couple decades, Rauschenbusch sets aside the biblical principle that man is born with a sin nature- and instead insists a 'social gospel' be taught; saying that the ills of man are do to their environment- inferring that there is not a personal responsibility in how one chooses to act.

I was mostly struck not only by how much had changed; but I was also amazed by how much was the same. People were still basically dealing with the same things people have dealt with for generations, just on a widening range- more 'opportunities', more 'pressing'... Being a woman- I couldn't help but consider the addition of things and people pulling at the women of the time, like never before.


That got me thinking about a book I had recently read. Copyrighted in 1955, written by Anne Morrow Lindbergh. She was probably most well known as the wife of famous aviator Charles Lindbergh, and them having experienced the tragic kidnapping and loss of their infant son. However, she was also an accomplished aviator and writer in her own right, and the mother of five. The title of the book I read is: "GIFT from the SEA". In this book, Mrs. Lindbergh shares her insights and wisdom gained from a week spent away at a beach cottage on the ocean shore. Most of her time was spent alone, and in contemplation.

Several things about which Mrs. Lindbergh wrote were stunningly contemporary- and eloquently put. Descriptions she gives on pages 20/22 are ones that many women can relate to today. Here are excerpts:

"For life today in America is based on the premise of ever-widening circles of contact and communication. It involves not only family demands, international demands on the good citizen, through social and cultural pressures, through newspapers, magazines, radio programs, political drives, charitable appeals and so on. My mind reels with it. What a circus act we women perform every day of our lives. It puts the trapeze artist to shame. Look at us. We run a tight rope daily, balancing a pile of books on the head. Baby-carriage, parasol, kitchen chair, still under control. Steady now!
This is not the life of simplicity but the life of multiplicity that the wise men warn us of. It leads not to unification but to fragmentation. It does not bring grace, it destroys the soul."

"For to be a women today is to have interests and duties, raying out in all directions from the central mother-core, like spokes from the hub of a wheel. The pattern of our lives is essentially circular. We must open to all points of the compass, husband, children, friends, home, community, stretched out, exposed, sensitive like a spider's web to each breeze that blows, to each call that comes. How difficult for us, then to achieve a balance in the midst of the contradictory tensions, and yet how necessary for the proper functioning of our lives. How much we need, and how arduous of attainment is that steadiness preached in all rules for holy living."

Fragmentation. I think most women have felt this to some degree. Perhaps especially true in a season such as raising children. Even with Mrs. Lindbergh's insight and wisdom, she admits in her book to not having an 'answer' to offer.

I would like to submit that there is an answer. We can be a wheel secured by a bolt, so that we don't go spinning off in any-which-way-and-loose-ineffective. That 'bolt' is Jesus Christ and His Word. Where this 'rubber meets the road' of life is in our making of decisions.

Decisions can come flooding at us, or can trickle in and creep up on us...either way having potential to leave us overwhelmed and fragmented. And, no longer effective. This personal condition then affects all those with whom we are in contact; affecting others, but probably not effectively or productively any more. Instead there is a point where the spokes begin to break and there is a disconnect on multiple levels in our lives.

Whether we are consciously aware of it or not, each of the decisions we make are based on something that we value. And what we value is based on what we believe.

If one holds to a "Dewey" perspective- then one can make up whatever is right for them self, at any given moment...a relativism, in the moment- perhaps swayed by such things as a feeling, popularity, immediate gratification... Many times people simply maintain the notion that busyness equals productivity.

Believers, in Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord, are to base their decisions, values, on their belief of Jesus Christ and His Word. Making decisions out of reverence for God and His Word, which gives the biblical definition of wisdom, thus making wise decisions. Sadly, even Believers can be unconsciously driven by biblical/religious assumptions rather than the Truth. There needs to be consistency in studying Scripture and prayer... This brings us to another modern time challenge- Space.

No, not 'outer-space'. Let me go back to Mrs. Lindbergh's "GIFT of the Sea" (excerpts from pages 105-107, I added bold type) Again, she is on the sea shore~
"When I think back to my first days here, I realize how greedily I collected. My pockets bulged with wet shells, the damp sand clinging to their crevices. The beach was covered with beautiful shells and I could not let one go by unnoticed. I couldn't even walk head up looking out to sea, for fear of missing something precious at my feet. The collector walks with blinders on ; he sees nothing but the prize. In fact, the acquisitive instinct is incompatible with true appreciation of beauty. But after all the pockets were stretched and damp, and the bookcase shelves filled and the window ledges covered, I began to drop my acquisitiveness. I began to discard from my possessions, to select."
"Even small and casual things take on significance if they are washed in space, like a few autumn grasses in on corner of an Oriental painting; the rest of the page bare."

These words remind me of a biblical principle that Paul gives us in Philippians 1:9-11. "And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ; having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God."

We need to be intentional in building space into our days- to slow enough to study His Word, and hear His voice- so that we choose the excellent way, His way, for our lives and for our family... It will not always be easy to carve out this space, nor will others necessarily agree with our decisions; but we must be passionate and diligent in doing so. However-we will be rewarded in the security and peace He provides in the midst of our modern day, crazily spinning, 'multiple-spoked-wheeled' lives!

toolbox

I marvel at people who use tools. Especially power tools- which generally awkward me out to a point of being freaked out when it comes to the bigger ones! (Like big saws, and nail-guns!) Nonetheless- there is a part of me that wishes I was good at using them, because I reaaly enjoy and appreciate the wonderful things you can make, and accomplish, with them!

I guess the tools I use most often, are found in the kitchen. Baking and cooking on a regular basis- I have many opportunities to use my skills! I am an okay cook, but I really enjoy baking. But, with so many on different diets...I don't do that as often as I'd like. (Nor do I need to eat a lot of baked goods!)

I can zip around the kitchen pretty well. I know (usually) where my tools are, when to use them, how to use them; I try to keep them clean and handy for the next time I need them- because I know it won't be long for most of them before I need them again.

Once in a blue-moon, I get a new kitchen tool/gadget. I love it! I enjoy having a new tool to help me do my job better, easier, and maybe even with a little more flair! I splurged the other day and bought a darling new apron (for those who don't spend a lot of time in the kitchen, 'yes!'- an apron is a wonderful tool)! It has a wonderful colorful design, and one of my favorite Bible verses. (John 10:10)

This past week I discovered another toolbox, which has been incredibly wonderful. It is in 2 Peter 1:2-9. The tools are listed in verses 5-7. They way it is written, the list looks a bit like these tool are listed in oder of 'get this first, then that'...but that is only the styl of the writing. Actually, each tool stands on its own, and works with each of the others listed-- in fact, altogether, they can be a virtual power tool!

Before I get into the tools- let's begin by looking at the tool maker and box: "2. Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord; 3. seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 4. For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, in order that by them you might become partakers of the divinge nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust."

So- in verse 2: How is that we can have grace and peace multiplied?...In the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord! He is the Tool Maker!....And because of Who He is, and His divine power, how much has He given us pertaining to life and godliness? EVERTHING! How much is that?! EVERTHING! (In my mind I can here a friend say. 'uh-huh- yes!, you got that right!- EVERYTHING!- that's what I'm talking about!)

Breathe that in! For those who know the Tool Maker- Jesus Christ, He has given EVERYTHING to you that you need pertaining to living out your life in a godly (God pleasing) way! By His power, because of Who He is!...He HAS given it to us- it was available to us...it is available to us...it will be available to us...everything we need... WOW!

I've read these verses before, but never have I been so struck by the reality of these verses up until this past week! The LORD has used it to minister to my soul in an amazing way!

Okay- He has called us, He is our Saviour- by His grace and mercy, and us trusting in His finished work on the cross for us, by His own glory and excellence...And in His mysterious ways- He has invited us to be partakers of the divine nature, and escape the corruption of this world (lust). Can I get an 'amen' to that!

Now that we are saved by Him, through faith- faith is one of the tools He gives us...and it is the universal tool to connect us to the rest of the list of tools here: "For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness and to goodness,knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love."(verse 5-7) So, our tools are: diligence, moral excellence, knowledge, self-control, perseverence, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love.

My mom used to say a married woman should have a 'wedding shower' every 15yrs to get new kitchen utensils, as the old ones get worn out! The great thing about the tools the Tool Maker gives- is that they improve with age! Making you more and more effective and productive! And who really would not want that? They can never be over used; not in the context of His love. Verses 8-9 say: "For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."

The Factor

For anyone whose had the priviledge of having a baby- you know all about the long days, short nights- little sleep, feeding, burping, spit-up, diaper change, feedings, burping, spit-up, diaper change...throw in some loud crying (mostly from the baby- but sometimes your own)...

Most every parent will tell you that parenting is difficult, exhausting, exasperating... but an amazingly wonderful thing! When that little one cuddles in, sleeps in your arms, looks at you with an intensity- studying your face-taking you all in...gives you that sweet smile.... All is worth it!

In our area, the 8th graders get assigned a mechanical 'baby' to which they are assigned to care. Some of these 'babies' are 'crack babies', who require a greater amount of care than the others. Each 'baby' is engineered to periodically need feeding, will cry, and wet. The student must quickly, and gentley, meet the needs of their 'baby'. The student's instructor is able to monitor the 'baby' while it's in the custody of the student. Data is collected on how quickly/efficiently the baby's needs are met. The instuctor can even tell if the student has abandoned or shaken the baby. The student never gets to hear 'their baby' coo, feel 'their baby' cuddle- or see 'their baby' smile at them while looking deeply into their eyes...

A disconnect.

Reminds me of a conversation I had the other day with a gentleman who has a website devoted to young men struggling with the issue of abortion. Yes, men who struggle with abortion. The conversation lent itself to discussing promiscuis sex; and the seemingly related, general disconnect in men when it comes to the reality of life in the womb.

The closest a man comes to this reality is when their wife is carrying within their womb- a child, created out of the union of his own seed. Still, there is a surrealness to it all; only getting more real with seeing their wife's belly begin to buldge, hearing the heartbeat at the doctor's office, first views on ultrasound, feeling the baby's movements when close...

This brings me to wonder~ do these mechanical 'babies' really promote not being sexually active. I doubt it. In 'that moment', I don't think many students are thinking about that mechanical baby. Now, let's say the student is sexually active, and there is a resulting pregnancy- flash back to the 'baby' they had in 8th grade-- lots of work, no reward...it wasn't really a baby...its all so surreal...there is a disconnect from now there being actual life in that womb.

This disconnected view can lead one to thinking it is 'my choice' as to whether to give birth or abort. Most often it is the male encouraging the female to abort; there are times though when a young man discovers their sexual partner aborted his child without even giving him a say... Sadly, many choose to abort--only to be faced with the reality, if not sooner, then later, with the knowledge that indeed: that baby was real...alive!

I admit, this is not necessarily the outcome of using mechanical 'babies' as teaching tools; and it's certainly not that I think the educators have such intentions... But I do believe that many of us parents and educators have much to really think about when it comes to educating our young people about being sexually active/and those choices' consequences. I think many times we concentrate too much on the symptoms and not at the core of the issues of sexual activity and crisis pregnancy...

Disconnect. That is at the core. It is this disconnect from the value of life, consequences and responsibility; these are the core issues which we need most to address with our own children, are daughters and our sons. The earlier, the better.

Practically speaking- we can early on give our sons and daughters the message that they are valuable; and as appropriate to age, be open and honest about the seeds of life which live in them...and about the virtue of chastity/purity. We must model and teach that to 'be a man' isn't about using a single organ of the male anatomy...And to model to our young ladies that beauty is more than skin deep- and to be considerate of the men around them and dress in such a way as to not encourage them to stumble sexually in their mind or body... Perhaps instead of students having mechanical 'babies'- your family could offer to babysit, or spend time with a family who has a real baby...

Where does it really begin, to turn this sexually active/irresponsible trend in our young people around? It begins with the adults- being willing to inconvenience themselves, perhaps be in awkward discussions with their children- being willing to be involved- not leave these important lessons up to strangers.

There are children dying out there. Many dying needlessly on altars of ignorance and convenience. There are wounded people out there with empty arms- and ones praying to adopt a baby. It is time to find ways to connect young men and women with the value of life.

Missed Opportunities

I was listening to a friend describe a person he knows, who is convinced that most ministry just happens as a consequence of just 'living our lives'. While I see a kernel of truth in that, I disagree to a larger degree.

An image comes to mind, of someone walking along through life, head down... will things get done, yes; but how much more ministry might there be around us- if we only lifted our head up, and started each day emploring the LORD to show us what He wants us to see that day, and ask Him to empower us to do whatever He calls us to. Being more intentional in our personal ministry.

It is awkward to think of all the possible missed opportunities around me on any given day, because I have chosen a myopic approach to life.

There is nothing inherently 'wrong' only taking care of what we see close to us- for that is needed; and there is a truism that 'charity begins at home'... But, how many more are out there to whom God would have us minister?

Not that everyone is called to full-time ministry either...I'm not saying that all should be be in 'full-time paid ministry'. But He does call each of us to be His witness- and to seek Him in all things...

My heart breaks for my family- and there I have my greatest responsiblity...but my heart breaks for those in my congregation, my community, my country... What might God have me do?

I was talking to a lady, and she shared how she'd recently been to a women's retreat. She had gone reluctantly to the retreat, and during it was questioning why she had even come. But, another lady from her church, in regular conversation, shared something which was incredibly valuable to the lady with whom I was talking...that comment had touched her greatly, in a wonderful way- and she was so thankful she had gone to the retreat after all!

I saw the lady who'd made the comment and without revealing the other person or subject- let her know that through a conversation at the retreat- she had blessed someone. She was very glad to know she had unwittingly been an encouragement! She was just being 'herself' and God used her to bless someone! Indeed this happens many times- and is a wonderful thing.

I have experienced the same kind of thing. This side of heaven, we will probably never know how often we have positively affected someone for the Kingdom. Very cool!

Still, I can't help think there have been many more opportunities I have missed because I wasn't on the 'alert and ready'- having been intentional in asking the LORD to open my eyes throughout the day.

Years ago, I worked in a Blood Bank- volunteers came to give life-saving blood. There were times I would have to turn someone away, because they did not meet the safety requirements- but I also had volunteer donors who'd donated multiple gallons over the years! I also worked in the apheresis department- where they had a specialized donor listing from which to try to match blood component needs of very ill patients struggling with different diseases... These blood donors were/are heroes!

There were also those who were greatly qualified to donate, but chose not to. I know they would have donated blood to a family member in need. But, for whatever reason, they would not donate to a blood bank. They would 'look after' the needs of their family- which is very good; but at the same time, missed so many opportunities to give/share a great life-gift.

In living out a Christian Witness- we are called to dimensions of service. We are called to reach out in Christian charity not only to those in our own family- but those around whom we've been placed...and beyond.

8(A)This is a trustworthy statement; and concerning these things I (B)want you to speak confidently, so that those who have (C)believed God will be careful to (D)engage in good deeds. These things are good and profitable for men. Titus 3:8

18Instruct them to do good, to be rich in (A)good works, (B)to be generous and ready to share, ...1 Timothy 6:18

15but [a]sanctify (A)Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready (B)to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the (C)hope that is in you, yet (D)with gentleness and (E)reverence; 1Peter 3:15

4For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent (A)promises, so that by them you may become (B)partakers of the divine nature, having (C)escaped the (D)corruption that is in (E)the world by lust.

5Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith (F)supply (G)moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, (H)knowledge,

6and in your knowledge, (I)self-control, and in your self-control, (J)perseverance, and in your perseverance, (K)godliness,

7and in your godliness, (L)brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love.

8For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor (M)unfruitful in the true (N)knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

9For he who lacks these qualities is (O)blind or short-sighted, having forgotten his (P)purification from his former sins.

10Therefore, brethren, be all the more diligent to make certain about His (Q)calling and (R)choosing you; for as long as you practice these things, you will never (S)stumble; 2 Peter 1:4-10

Careful, always, diligent...there is something that speaks to an intentionality here...words which can keep a grimey-film of apathy from building up over our spirtual eyes... To keep our 'windows' clear to see what the LORD would have us to see, and our hearts clear from that which would cloud His charity toward others and their needs.

The virtues listed in 2 Peter 1:4-10 do not come naturally, but they do come Supernaturally- through the Holy Spirit. It is up to us to put them into practice in our own life.

Today- who/what is the LORD showing you? He is calling you to participate in His mysterious and powerful work today- don't miss it!